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Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Printable Version

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Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Hello all!

In the following thread you will find the ongoing experiences of Poe Lhyzeal. It is comprised of journal entries, some short stories to help flesh out the arcs, etc. (Post are in chronological order of events!)

Enjoy and feel free to leave comments, etc Smile

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Part of the Tribe
Soft snoring filled the room as the daylight started to trickle in past the linen curtains. The dark haired Miqo’te rolled onto her side, her ear absently twitching as she yawned and pulled the blanket up over her head. It’s too early for this.She heard a snicker and suddenly a hard tug on her tail that had been exposed as she had shifted in bed.


“Mota!”The Miqo’te sat up with a huff, glaring at her half-sister, smugly perched on the end of the bed, holding the wispy strands of fur of the exceptionally long tail.

“Poe…”Mota said back evenly, before bursting into laughter and standing up, dropping Poe’s tail, “You should really think about cutting some of that fur.” Mota wrinkled her nose in disgust and dramatically wiped her hands together, “Mother said to get up, you two will be heading to Limsa Lominsa to make some deliveries.”

Poe closed her eyes and groaned, attempting to yank the blanket back over her head, “Why can’t you go with her for now? I just got back from Ul’dah with her two nights ago.” She could hear Mota clucking her tongue at her. Oh, that’s right. She is too busy meeting with the other elder females and discussing plans to return to the forests and expand the family. Poe rolled her eyes, thankful the blanket was covering her face. She felt another insistent tug on her tail and she sat up, snarling as she shoved the blankets aside, springing to her feet.


Mota offered a sly smile as Poe and she stood toe to toe. Mota was everything Poe was not. Petite and demure with sparkling golden eyes and long strawberry blonde hair that was never out of place. Their mother, Sula, always reminded them that a female’s power was in her presentation. Poe realized at a young age that she had difficulty keeping up such a facade, often coming home with ripped clothing, mud streaks across her knees and face and brambles stuck in her wispy tail. Her mother was always horrified, it only seemed to get worse as Poe grew from up. Between standing several ilms over her mother and half-sister, her eyes were not the beautiful gold of the family’s either; Poe stuck out even more when in the presence of them.


Mota continued to smile smugly and Poe finally let out a sigh, though it sounded much more like a hiss. Mota casually lifted a leather bound book up into Poe’s view, slowly licking one finger and flipping a page, “I was enjoying your little drawings. Though, some might find these a bit creepy, do they know you are drawing them as they go about their day?”


Poe’s eyes narrowed and she growled, reaching for her sketchbook, “Give it back.” Poe snatched the book from Mota’s grasp.


“Oh, touchy,” Mota smirked as she turned and sauntered towards the door, “She said the caravan leaves before lunch.” Mota disappeared out into the hallway, not bothering to look over her shoulder.


Poe bit her lip in frustration and looked longingly back at her bed once more. Rubbing one of her ears absently, she moved to the small window perch, pushing the linen curtain aside. It had to be close to noon and realized she had better hurry. Tucking her sketchbook into her leather satchel, Poe quickly turned and changed into some linen travel clothes, slid her goggles into place, tossed her satchel over her shoulder and bounded out of her room.

*                    *                              *                            *

​ “Poe, are you listening?”

Poe’s head whipped around, focusing on her mother. Sula stood, waiting for Poe to follow her through the gate into the city. Poe had been distracted by the scent of the sea air; she could hear the birds down by the docks.

“This is important. I won’t be taking many trips once we settle back in our true home. I need to know you can handle these trips yourself. Or at least until you are busy with youngins.” If I have to hear once more about ‘the’ family and rearing of young. It was not that Poe disliked children; she was actually quite fond of them. She disliked the pressure and expectations from her mother. And she hated being told what to do.

Poe nodded and followed her mother down the walkway. She had visited both Ul’dah and Limsa Lominsa more times than she could count. Sula had been bringing Poe on her merchant trips for quite some time. Poe had met many individuals and during each trip was always reminded how it would soon be her duty to handle this part of the family’s work. She was grateful in some ways; at least her mother could see that Poe needed to see the world, experience what could be offered.

The two weaved through the foot traffic, the sound of merchants advertising their wares and beautiful women offering a wide variety of services filled the air. Occasionally someone would reach out and brush her arm or grasp for her hands. Poe would offer a smile and shift away. Their walk stopped in front of a large tavern.
Sula delicately took off her leather gloves and tucked them into her bag, “I have a few appointments here and then we will be having dinner with the merchant, Relan – you remember him, correct? I want to discuss the possibility of him selling some of our herbal remedies once we are back in our village. You can run along now, but Poe, remember this dinner is important and you need to look presentable.”

Poe’s ears wilted as she nodded.She remembered Relan, an older man who shifted from a life on the seas to a life of selling wares in the port city. Poe remembered his son, Davin even more. A few years older than herself, he had taught her how to use a fishing rod several visits back. She was envious of Davin’s freedom. He had even told her stories of his misadventures. She giggled, remembering his tale of meeting a saucy wench that stole all his coin, distracting him with a seductive kiss.

Sighing, Poe turned and headed for the docks. She enjoyed that place best, she loved drawing the beautiful ships docked and the way the sea curled around them. She enjoyed the rowdiness of crews upon the ships and hearing old fishermen tales. She found her usual perch, settling down and opening her sketchpad. The most recent sketch had been one of Davin, looking off to the sea as the wind had rustled his hair. Poe smiled as her finger traced over the image.

“There you are!”

She slammed her sketchbook closed;turning to see Davin grinning down at her as he nonchalantly leaned against the post.

“I figured I would find you hear. My father said there was a dinner meeting tonight. And I know right where to find you. You should really explore a bit more, everyone is quite inviting around here.” He grinned down at her, affectionately rubbing her head.
Poe blushed and dipped out of his reach, making a weak attempt at smoothing her hair down, “You heard about the dinner as well?” She carefully tucked her leather sketchpad into her satchel, thankful that Davin did not inquire about it. Schooling her expression, she looked back up to meet Davin’s gaze, a wry smirk on his face.
Davin stood up and held his handout to her, “Well, shall we head back to the tavern? I see how upset your mother can be if people are late.” Poe hesitantly placed her hand in his and allowed Davin to guide her back to the tavern.

Stepping inside, Poe paused,searching for where Relan and her mother might be seated. Her hand was tugged as Davin turned her to face him, tapping his finger on her forehead, “You could probably take those goggles off, it is rather dark in here.” Poe frowned slightly and eased her goggles up onto her forehead and blinked a few times. She easily spotted her mother and Relan tucked away at a discreet table. She tugged on Davin’s arm, pointing to where they sat. Davin carelessly waved one hand in their direction, “We can surely enjoy a mug of mead before we join them. Besides, I want to hear about your family’s herbal remedies. Rumor is it is the finest green smoke one would find in the Black Shroud.” Davin winked at her as a tall Highlander approached them, one Poe recognized as a friend of Davin’s.

“You buying a round?” the tall man asked, chuckling as he nodded to Davin and then Poe. She offered a quick nod back and glanced over where Sula sat, deep in discussion with Relan.

“L-let me get it,” Poe said,offering a brief smile as she weaved her way to the bar. After letting the barkeep know what she needed, Poe turned to rest her elbows, taking the room in. Sula made eye contact, her expression icy cool. Poe raised a finger, trying to indicate she would be over briefly. The barkeep returned with the mugs and Poe carefully balanced them as she headed back to Davin and the tall highlander.

“She is amazing. She has this energy about her, I can’t quite describe -“ Davin paused as he saw Poe come closer. She had heard him speaking, stopping a moment as she had tried to collect herself. Is he talking about me? She anxiously approached, offering a mug to each of the men.

“A beautiful female arriving with the gift of mead!” Davin grinned widely and wrapped one arm around Poe’s shoulders.

The other man took a long sip of his drink, offering a small bow, “I appreciate this.” He took another sip and then turned back Davin, “And this beauty? She is the beautiful Elezen over at that table?”

Poe turned to follow the man’s line of sight. Her gaze settled on a group of beauties sitting around a table nearby. She watched as the loveliest one at the table offered a small wave back toward Davin, his friend and herself. Just breathe. It was in moments like these that Poe was thankful for her mother’s constant insistence of a neutral expression. Poe grasped for the skill, raising her brow finally and offering a forced chuckle, “It appears she would like to talk to you.”

Davin smiled at Poe before lifting his arm off her shoulder and finishing his mead, “She does await, doesn’t she?” He set the mug down on the counter edge and tapped Poe’s nose, “You give your mother my best. I think I will avoid such a stiff conversation.” He started to head toward the Elezen’s table before pausing to look over his shoulder, “And Poe, promise me we shall sample some of your family’s herbal. I know you have some.” He winked once more before drifting over to the other table. Poe watched him offer a kiss to the beauty’s hand.

The loud thump of a mug brought her back, a loud chuckle echoing in her ears. “He is quite the charmer, is he not?” Davin’s friend shook his head, laughing as he lit a cigar. He offered one to Poe and she paused, instead reaching for the cigar he had lit and savoring the sweet smoke for a moment.

Handing it back to him and missing his bewildered stare, she headed to her mother’s table. Relan stood up, greeting Poe with a large hug, “Why, you grow taller each time I see you. Just stunning.” Poe hugged Relan tightly and drew a stool up to the table.

She quietly listened as Sula and Relan poured over trade routes, timing for different shipments and discussion of hiring guards. Poe had let the ramblings go in one ear and out the other. She felt numb inside.

The light in the sky had long since set when Poe realized the discussion had shifted from business. Sula was talking animatedly about the family, telling Relan about the new member who would be joining them. Poe’s ears perked, immediately realizing what had occurred. While Poe and Sula had been traveling, the mate to continue the family lines had arrived to stay with Mota and Poe’s aunts. Her mother had planned it so. Poe felt the bubbling of rage low in her gut as she shifted in her chair. She blinked back tears, furious with herself. All the comments, they were all meant to reinforce that soon they would be moving back to the forest. She couldn’t handle this thought. Later she would probably call herself foolish, but Poe stood up and left for the door. She could hear Sula still talking to Relan in excited tones, discussing what an experience it would be for her half-sister and herself.

Poe took one long look toward Davin as he sat among the beauties. A hard realization started to set in, that perhaps Davin was right. She did need to get out…to see it all.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

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The Sacred Willow Tree


"Poe!"

The youthful Miqo’te perked her ear and sat up, glancing around. She heard her name called again. Her mother. Poe quickly got to her feet and headed back to the home, she had been sitting by the river lazily watching napping the afternoon away. She jumped over the small fence, snagging her tunic and part of it ripped. Sighing, Poe looked down, trying to find a quick way to mend it, but realized there wasn’t any. Sula would have her hide over this. A female’s power is always in her presentation.

Forlorn, Poe continued her walk back up to the large home, surprised to see her mother standing with the Mender on the covered porch. Sula turned, inspecting her as she approached. Poe could feel her ears wilting, what would her mother say. Poe nervously attempted to cover the area the tunic ripped. Sula’s eyes narrowed, her voice sharp, “Really? You will no longer be a child soon yet you run about ripping your garments like one.”

Poe’s tail fell limply, dragging on the ground as she made her last final steps up to the porch. Sula turned and nodded to the Miqo’te standing beside her. Poe had only met the female a few times. And the female was enchanting. At one time, her hair and fur may have been a rich mahogany, it was now streaked with a lustrous silver. Her face showed the wear of time but her eyes were still a sparkling green; the only other member of the tribe with eyes like Poe’s. The Mender smiled and bowed her head to Poe, Poe quickly offering a bow back as she felt her hand’s shaking. The Mender felt more like a myth when she listened to stories of their great deeds. She was always elusive, gone for periods of time to do Nophica’s duties deep within the Shroud. She held great power within the tribe, answering only to Poe’s mother.

Sula turned and smiled to the Mender, hope clearly in her eyes, “My daughter, Poe.” There seemed to be something more Sula wanted to add but did not. Poe glanced from her mother back to the Mender, trying to hide her confusion. Poe had sensed changes coming as her 18th year was fast approaching, she had not expected to meet the Mender.

The Mender then moved, simply taking Poe’s hand and leading her down the porch steps. “We have much to discuss,” she almost hummed. Poe glanced back to Sula, noticing her mother’s quick smile. What is going on?

The Mender led her down to the gardens, walking around the beds towards the back where the trees grew thick. Parting back a small section, the Mender motioned to Poe. Poe glanced, noticing a path that seemed to continue. She looked back to the older female.

“It is alright,” the Mender smiled. Poe hesitantly stepped through the foliage gate and started down the path, the Mender following her. Several hundred paces down the path, the shroud opened up. A single tree stood in this clearing. Poe glanced at it, confused as the tree did not look well.

Turning back to the Mender, Poe remained silent, waiting for an explanation. The Mender took her hand once more and they moved to a simple bench beneath the sickly tree. That was when the Mender started to explain.

The job of the Mender is a difficult task, one that has been with this family for generations. Members of the family with aethereal capabilities had been renowned as brilliant healers, it was known throughout the Shroud and beyond. It is said Nophica herself requested we protect this very willow tree from harm. In payment, the family could harvest one large limb every three cycles. Now, I see that confused face, young one. Why would this tree be special? A willow’s tree wood is highly sensitive to aetheric manipulation. The Padjals found it made the strongest and most powerful wands for their spells. But it was not protected, over-harvested by the locals in the city. So for the last five lifespans of the Menders, we have protected this tree.

The Miqo’te paused at this moment and Poe finally blurted out, “Why does it look so miserable then?” The elder female smiled sadly, “Inquisitive one. You are not afraid to ask questions. You should continue to do so, Never stop questioning.” The Mender’s face was intent, searching Poe’s own features. She reached up and gently touched Poe’s cheek. Poe attempted to not flinch and the Mender recognized this, smiling gently as she continued her story.

But the greed of the family has deepened. Each harvest, more of the tree is taken. It has weakened and with this greed, the tree is becoming tainted. Do not look sad, young one. There is hope still. Your mother does not yet know of the condition of the tree. I have been able to shield it from her. But she will discover it soon.

Poe interrupted again, shaking her head, her eyes flashing in confusion, “Why do you share all of this with me?”

The Mender smiled again.

It is because of you, young one. I have watched you grow. It has been known since your birth you would be the next Mender. Your eyes sparkle with the green of the lush foliage this family was asked to help protect, your aetheric abilities evident to all that watch. You are almost upon your 18th year, you would typically begin your apprenticeship with me after the ritual of adulthood. But…I feel that your story will not go as such.

Poe’s ears wilted, concern on her face. Again I am not good enough? Sensing Poe’s anxiety, the Mender squeezed her hand, motioning out to the Shroud.

You know Menphina has a lover? Oschon, God of the Wanderers. I see that wanderlust in your eyes. You have the heart of Menphina, her emotional strength yet the drive for travel, for freedom. There were whisperings you were a child born directly from the love of the two Gods. I wonder now myself. Which is what brings me to why I brought you here. Your mother has made her intentions clear to keep harvesting the Willow tree. My strength is fading and more of the tree is becoming tainted. It will soon end it’s existence. And when that occurs, mine will as well. Now, do not look shocked. What I choose to do, I do with an open heart, my gift.

The Mender leaned over and pulled a small ornate box out from under the bench. She handed it Poe with a nod.

Inside there you will find the heart of this very tree. After much prayer, I knew what I had to do. The tree behind us stands because of my spells. But the heart, you must take it. It is said a powerful enough Mender can replant even a shard of the heart and bring the Willow tree back to life, allowing it to grow tall and strong once more. It was the only part not yet tainted. The heart is small, weakened but there would be enough wood to create several items from it. Be thoughtful how you use the wood. I suggest you use a shard and add it to a tool to enhance your spells, a wand or staff. That will come much later though. For now, simply protect it from your family. Promise me when you find a place to call home, you will once again bring the Willow to life.

Poe nodded, her head swimming as she stared down at the box in her hands. She looked back up at the Mender, the older female smiling, “I know you have many questions. I have enclosed more writing about the tree inside the box, but my time draws near and there is none left to tell you more.” The Mender got to her feet, motioning to Poe. “Go, young one.”

Poe stood up, clutching the box to her chest. Her green eyes looked glossy. The Mender motioned to her to go back to the path. Poe walked to the edge of the clearing, turning back to look at the Mender beneath the dying Willow. That image would stay with her always, for it was the last time she saw the Mender alive.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

The Golden Ring

Little Fox…. The voice still echoed in her head as the Miqo’te put her satchel down. The sound of clinking glass could be heard, Poe frowning as she forgot about them. The last few days had been exhausting. She had worried endlessly about Ace and Rose, her heart saddened to see them at such odds. Her private conversation with Ace before he left the beach party had cemented her suspicions and for a moment a sad smile flashed on her face.

Opening her satchel, Poe removed several small vials; she had been spending a significant amount of time trying to find the right mixture of herbs to offer others to help with healing. Her aunt had taught her a fair amount, but Poe had only just begun her training when she fled her family tribe. Lifting the vials to the sleepy sunlight that filtered into her room, Poe’s ears wilted. It’s cloudy…so it’s not pure. The female set them down on the table and turned to peer out the window. Her mind wandered to the other evening, the strange Lalafell and her singing oddly at Ace.

A sudden chill ran up Poe’s spine, remembering more than she had shared with the others. She had returned to Gridania the previous day, looking to do some fishing and drop off some items to the local inn. She had been approached quickly by one of the staff letting her know a letter had arrived for her. Her curiosity had been peaked and Poe had quickly gone to pick the letter up. It was a simple message from Eros stating he would like to speak with her. His behavior seemed odd enough but she had shrugged it off.

A little later, the rather naïve Miqo’te ran into him out in the Black Shroud. Oddly, he wasn’t dressed in his dark clothing, his pointy hat but was simply fishing in a place Poe was rather fond of fishing herself. He had been polite enough and after some small talk, asked her if she still had the two items her gave her. The stone he had given to her at the beach party and the golden ring he had dropped into her lap the night at the tavern.

Poe’s ears flattened with the memory. Why did he give those to me? She had handed them back over to Eros, assuming he simply had requested she hold onto these items for a bit. But when he melded the stone to the small ring and handed it back, she had been thoroughly confused. His explicit instructions still rang in her ear. No one else is to touch it or they will know true fear. She shivered again, remembering his expression. And the odd name he kept calling her, Little Fox. What did that even mean?

With this memory, Poe’s eyes started to mist up and she dropped her head in shame. It was all her fault that Ace was being hounded. He had touched the ring. It had all happened so fast, Ace demanding to see the ring; there was no way she would not have given it over. The female had tried to warn him, but it did no good. And then Keldion and Daevien…and Rose….and everyone else. It seemed as if she had brought something upon them all. And there was no way she would allow anyone to get hurt.

Refusing to cry, she wiped the tears from her eyes. The crew seemed to be in danger. She swallowed, pulling the shade closed on her window. Laying down on her bed, Poe made up her mind. She was going to find out exactly what Eros was planning.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

A simple leather bound book sits on a small crate beside a hammock swinging gently in the breeze. The leather has been scarred from use, discolored in some areas. Flipping through the pages, one would first notice several sketches. Faces of those this journal’s owner would hold dear. A picture of Ace and Rose, them looking toward each other in a heated conversation. A caricature of Saefinn with his …confusing date. Bobo sitting atop a bar waving as Lina is seen rolling her eyes. Ami leaning playfully on the bar at Ambrosia, Keldion in the background with his smirk. Youthful S’anhu peering out over the ocean, looking deep in thought. Daevien leaning against a wall, looking reserved as usual. Several pages are blank and a simple style of handwriting fills a small portion of the page.

It seems I have come to a place where I have talked myself into circles. While I have always drawn, it seems now more than ever I need to write. The events over the past weeks, they are simply more than anyone should have to go through. My own faults and weaknesses have caused harm to others and even now, I have not shared the recent event of seeing Mota. Not that she should be a priority. She surely is up to no good, but her only goal is to harass me. I know she will leave my friends alone.

My friends…this crew means more to me than anything else. I failed them by not listening to them about Eros. Individuals were wounded… I can’t fail them again.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

The writing shows a shakiness not evident in the earlier entry.

Failure. Isn’t that what drives so many of us? I failed them again…and in my own anger lashed out. I arrived to the ship to find Rose gravely injured. Lina was patching her up. Glancing around the room I saw that everyone else appeared…numb. They had free Saefinn, thank the Gods…but at what cost. S’anhu was as pale as the memories that now haunt him. Ace was so dark, cold. Seeing Rose…all that blood. I realized I had clearly missed something they…the crew needed me at. I didn’t want to tell them I had been in the South Shroud, studying with a Padjal by the name of Raya-O-Senna. I wanted to come back and make them all proud…that I wouldn’t be the weakest link. In anger I burst out at Ace, misunderstanding his statement. After patching up Rose and clarifying things with Ace, we realized Daevien was missing. Kora told us he was being brought to Limsa… Ryillin announced he was going to find him, insisting he go alone. Why? Why would I not want to be there? And…his question, do I really care for Daevien? Ace stated I was going and thank Menphina for keeping Daevien alive at all. Ryillinn discovered Daevien, beaten and bloody just off the road outside of Costa del Sol. The stench of blood festering in the heat is something I will soon not forget. I did my best to heal him…at least physically.

Returning to the ship, Daevien was able to sit and rest. Rose was still not feeling well. I should have been more attentive but I think…I just sorta withdrew into my head, guilt and shame overwhelming my own ability to help. She got sick and she left…stupidly of us, Ace later pointed out. Lina and him bickered about that choice.

I realize now the toll this has taken on poor S’anhu. His words have me confused as to what exactly did happen during the rescue of Saefinn. I wanted to speak to him more on that, but Ryillin and him got into a heated arguement and Ry simply put him to sleep. I can appreciate Ryillin was trying to subdue the situation, and he did go to gather food for everyone, but…S’anhu is hurting too. Lina and I were able to move him to my hammock I hung up and I hope he sleeps off some of the horror of the day. After eating the soup Ryillin provided, Daevien and I returned to the inn. Thankfully he is sleeping peacefully now, while I sit and smoke…and write….and think. Perhaps even plan…

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

The writing is a bit haggard, as if someone was writing in a dimly lit room and could not see well.

The highs and lows….it is almost unbearable. My training has gone well, Raya-O-Senna told me she had not expected to see such power within me. I know I still have much I need to be able to do…for me and this crew. Saefinn can not be expected to carry the burden of keeping everyone ok.

My training today involved healing the wounds of the forest. It brought me right back to when I was a young Miqo’te, running free in the woods. No one calling out to me, no responsibilities. When I returned, Raya had congratulated me, stating the next step would challenge me more. I need to hurry, I fear so much is coming to a head, I need to have these skills.

The dreams have returned as well. I woke up just now, gripped with fear. I don’t understand them entirely. I realize that by standing beside Daevien, his brother will always see me as potential target, an exploit to get Daevien to do what he wants. I shudder now at the thought, remembering his brother’s rough grip on me, his whisper in my ear. I was so ashamed, I should have fought harder. Thankfully that was all he did, though I fear from his manner that he will do more if he deems it necessary.

The hot springs….so many memories there already. I attended the gathering and I enjoyed it, it was nice to socialize with members of the crew I don’t get to too often. The whole time, I was glancing around, vividly remembering the night with Daevien there. Were we foolish? I know I was caught up in the moment….and with everything occurring, all the obstacles and dangers, what would I have done? What if I had gotten…pregnant? I vented to Rose about it, nervous and unsure who to even talk to. I have to try to keep my head on straight and think…

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

The simple handwriting was slightly smudged, as if the writer had taken the journal elsewhere to write, perhaps where a light mist fell upon the parchment.

I came to visit Relan. It had been some time since I had checked in with the crazy old man. I was tired and haggard. The padjals had placed such confidence in me, I couldn’t let them down. And I didn’t. A-Towa-Cant spoke with me after and I realize now that while I may never be on the front lines, that I do still have much to offer.

Returning to Limsa, I first tried to find Daevien. I wanted…no, needed to see him. These past few days away have been difficult and I wanted to see him. But he was not in our room when I arrived. I tried to keep my disappointment under control and took the opportunity to visit Relan.

Knocking on his shop door down by the docks, Relan answered it, smoking his pipe and leaned against the door frame, slowly looking me over. I remember nervously shifting from foot to foot. He finally spoke, “You have returned…” I could not tell by his beard if he was smiling, but I noticed the crinkle near his eyes from smiling and quickly embraced him in a big hug. Relan will always be family to me and he knows I will always return to see him.

Bringing me inside, he closed the door and pulled up a stool, patting it while he brought out a bottle of liquor. Pouring us each a couple fingers worth, his old, weary body sat down on the stool opposite of mine and raised his glass. We silently drank the liquid, it burning my throat as it went down.

The comfortable silence, Relan did not ask where I had been or what I had seen. He simply set his empty glass back down, smiling from what I could tell behind his beard. His statement surprised me, his voice a low rumble, “You have found love.” How the crazy old man deduced that…or realized….I got flustered but did not deny it. Relan had met Daevien quite some time ago, before anything had even happened with the crew. Relan did not speak again and we sat in easy silence, having another drink. Relan stood, stretching as he motioned towards the window where my hammock still hung. “I know you will go sit on docks and write and think. I will leave the door unlocked so you may return to rest.” Old man knows me too well. I lit a cigar and brought my journal out here to write. The ocean sounds are lulling me to sleep but I am glad to have a few quiet moments in the moonlight. And I pray to Menphina that everyone I hold dear will be ok.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

A Recent Encounter

The soft sound of rain falling in the forest was enough to help the Miqo’te relax. Her hair now drenched, her ears twitching as she peered around the landscape, those emerald eyes wary. Poe had returned to the site of her harvest, simply cleaning the area before kneeling within the cleared space. Closing her eyes, she softly murmured thanks to Nophica for the abundance of her crop this season.

“I thought I would find you here. So predictable…really.”

Poe’s eyes opened slightly, barely slits as she turned to face that voice. “Mota…” It had been several cycles since she had last seen her half-sister. To Poe’s disdain, Mota looked exactly the same….fucking perfect.

Her half-sister smiled lazily, sauntering closer as her golden eyes flashed, “You didn’t think you could just run off and no one would keep tabs on you, did you?” Her tone was light and mocking, as if talking to a small child.

Poe only emitted a low growl. She was mad at herself; of course Mota knew the forests just as well as she. How could she have been so foolish to think she was free of her family?

Mota’s lips curled into a provocative smile, tilting her head, “Oh Poe. You look so mad.” Mota leaned in closer with a soft whisper, “Don’t worry. I will find out what else you have been up to.” Turning on her heels, Mota sauntered off again, her hips swaying, “I will see you again.”

Mota disappeared back within the forest and Poe finally let out an angry snarl, her fist smashing into the freshly turned soil. Her ear’s flattening; she glared in the direction Mota disappeared off in. Shaking her head, Poe covered her face with her hands, unsure of what she would do.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

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Poe’s Journal Entry


The writing is light and a bit shaky. One can not decipher if it’s sheer exhaustion or adrenaline. The paper has crinkled, as if someone toyed with the edges as they thought, spilling their inner thoughts out in a mess of ink and emotions.

Part of me feels like I missed so much while I was gone with the Padjals. Perhaps I was not as prepared as I had hoped for the masquerade but I still went. Perhaps overdressed…I don’t know. Everyone looked so good and the crowd was overwhelming. I mingled and socialized, offering cigars and making small talk. I was thankful to see familiar faces of the crew as we walked around, anxiously awaiting news in our pearl. Oddly, I noticed Lina and Ace rather close. Proof indeed I have missed much. They may have said she was drunk, but her manner told me otherwise. Not that I will prod. Any footing I might have had in the crew has disappeared since I was gone. They have no reason to tell me anything anymore.

There is an obvious pause in the writing.

The one thing Saefinn asked me to do I failed at. I could not get the guard to move. Foolish captain, he should have known I would not be able to do it. Woozy, thankfully, is much more gifted at such things. I feel bad she had to pick up the slack when I failed. S’anhu tried to tell me it was ok, but I know it wasn’t. I could almost feel the disappointment.I had hoped I wouldn’t be the weakest link…and I managed to prove again that I brought nothing to the table. Saefinn sent me to meet up with Mara and we moved down to the bridge, hiding out in a pile of hay, Ruhan nearby.

I felt like we sat there for ages, my stomach turning and my thighs aching from being in that position for so long. And then…we were given the warning. As the conflict ensued, I remembered my training. I am not anyone they would want on the front lines. I pulled back and prepared to take care of the injured.

As we gathered later at the ship to discuss the events, I did indeed see how much of an outsider I had become. Daevien departed shortly after, telling me he would see me soon. It has been so long since him and I could just sit quietly and talk. Perhaps I have pushed him away…

S’anhu…hasn’t spoken to me in days. I mean…he speaks at me, not to me. I don’t see the trust in his eyes, the warmth I am used to. Even Ace, Rose, Lina…I have broken the relationships somehow, the ones that are the most dear to me.

Perhaps that is what speaks volumes. I am not trusted. And that was all I wanted. Perhaps Mota and Sula were right, you should only look out for yourself. I wanted to be one who could emotionally support others…and I have never felt so alone. I should retire soon…I hope Daevien is still awake when I get to the room. I need to feel…something, anything. And I pray to Menphina it’s real.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

A moment in Mota's life

The door knob jingled and she swung the door open. Wrinkling her nose, she looked over the room. She had asked for the best room and expected such. Setting her possessions down on the table, she looked over the basket of fruit and turned to glance out the window. The warm desert winds blew through the open window causing the sheer curtains to billow.

Unclasping her ponytail, she dragged her fingers through her hair and yawned, moving to the small adjacent bathroom. Finding some nice smelling oils, she started a hot bath. While the tub filled, Mota stared into the mirror, looking at her reflection. She saw a physically attractive face look back at her. Bright golden eyes, long lashes. A pouty mouth that could offer a coy smile. Long strawberry blonde hair, when not pulled back it would flow over her shoulders and pool around the small of her back, the ends curling gently. She scrunched her nose again. That is your gift…be appealing to others, use them to get what you want.

She looked down, breaking her own gaze. She hated those thoughts, the words told to her repeatedly by her mother, Sula. She knew she was bitter. Poe had been able to escape from the pressures of the family; to be free of Sula. Nothing had changed for Mota. Not a damn thing. The female could feel the anger boiling within, her face flushed. She took a calm breath. Never show your needs…never show your emotions. All you have is your outward appearance. Use it.

Her fingers clenched and for a brief moment she imagined punching the mirror, right at the image reflected back. Disrobing, she paused to examine her form. Alluring enough…always having been able to distract those she needed to with a sway of her hips and soft smile. She turned to stop the water, sitting on the edge of the tub and letting her legs slip into the scented liquid. Thought of her own freedom had been more intrusive. It’s why she had agreed to work with Crycreed. She needed a way to make her own gil. She had little to offer except the use of her female wiles to meet the goals and orders set before her. She bitterly closed her eyes. My needs and wants matter little.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

I received the call over the pearl. They had found Kel. The relief…as much of a scoundrel as he is, I was so relieved to hear he was alive. I rushed out to meet them. Just like Keldion to dramatically lay on the edge of a cliff overlooking the ocean. A face I did not recognize seemed to have notified everyone. I should have taken the time to seek this male out and thank him, but S’anhu and Ami seemed busy talking with him.

And Keldion was in bad shape. Lina had got him to settle. I hope she knows she has a true gift. Her ability to heal…while I could tell it was taxing her…Keldion owes her thanks for everything she did for him. I tried my best to help him. I know Raya-O-Senna said to stop the self-doubts. I also didn’t…well, wouldn’t show up wearing the robes given to me by the Padjals. Raya-O-Senna may say I have earned them, but I still need to earn the respect of the crew. The expectations would be more, especially if they realized I had surpassed the trials the Padjals had placed before me.

Daevien got Keldion back to the ship and Lina and I did our best. Time will be the best healer now. I had wanted to clear the air with Ace and S’anhu, but I could tell Lina wanted to talk with them. It is better she got to speak to them, I don’t know what I would even say at this point.

There is hesitation in the writing…and it simply stops.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

The script is quick, hurried, as if the writer was afraid they would forget everything they wanted to write down.

The past rise and fall of the moon…so much has happened. E-Sumi-Yan had asked to speak with me. I had bothered him often when I was younger and first arrived in Gridania with my family. A request from him once something that worried me, but I couldn’t ignore it. I had wanted to talk to someone, anyone about this before I left. Fuck - where are you, Daevien? I realized how strained things have become between myself and everyone since I left to spend some time with the Padjals. I should have told the crew, but I didn’t want them to know…because what if I failed?

I packed some items, my robe gifted to me was in the satchel as well and I headed out for Gridania. I didn’t know what to expect and when I announced myself to the guild master, they quickly smiled, telling me to go the falls. I quickly hurried there but E-Sumi-Yan was no where in sight. I sat down, confused and waited. And waited….

When the sun dipped out of sight and the moon rose high in the sky, E-Sumi-Yan arrived. He commented on my frustration immediately. I tried to brush it off but he continued speaking. He acknowledged I had done well, surprisingly with training. While unconventional, I had shown some innate ability to bend the aether flow and perform acts of healing. He paused at that moment. All I could do was stare at his horns…his child-like face. What was I doing here? Seriously? I have no gifts, not like E-Sumi-Yan and the other Padjals. He scolded me then, as if he could read my very thoughts. As he spoke, I felt more confused but simply nodded. All I walked away with was that my training was truly just starting. And my strongest gift is my greatest weakness. Something to do with emotions, understanding them and being sensitive to others. He told me it was affecting my ability to work with aether, as I was draining myself. He requested I meet him again soon, he spoke of another healer with similar…”gifts” that may be able to help. Gifts? This doesn’t seem like a gift now…

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

The script is written with a deeper intensity than in earlier posts, the etchings all but carved into the thick parchment. Several small sketches line the sides, if one were to look at the long enough they might recognize the faces of the crew members, drawn perhaps in happier times…

I heard the call over the pearl and ran to help. X’hayu had called and soon I found her, getting filled in. S’anhu arrived shortly after. The awkwardness between us was still evident, I was convinced he was upset with me. But I refused to focus on that part and we moved toward collecting the items that had been taken. Kora arrived before we entered. I had heard her name, though we had never been formally introduced.

I hope she treats S’anhu well. I am not sure why I am protective of him, especially since he has all but stopped talking to me. But S’anhu is special to me and if she hurts him…even Menphina will have no mercy. The further we went into the camp, the more I could see the anxiety on S’anhu. Looking at Kora…I think I may know what is going on. Not that it is any of my business. I guess it would explain why S’anhu has been busy, distant. He has an important individual in his life now. He asked her to stay back with me. Rubbed me the wrong way though…once again, Poe couldn’t handle herself. That was the message he was sending.

During one part of the scuffle, S’anhu was knocked unconscious. I was about to rush forward to help him, but remembered my place and simply stood back as Kora tended to him. With S’anhu up again, though I am sure he had one hell of a headache, we gathered the items and raced back.

X’hayu has impressed me. I wouldn’t mind talking with her more to better understand the work she does. She and S’anhu spoke for a while. I had been lingering in hopes of talking to him, I needed to clear the air. But…it was just too awkward. Kora and I formally introduced ourselves and I quickly left, allowing S’anhu to simply ask if I was ok.

I am not sure I am.

RE: Poe's journey (Poe Lhyzeal's Journal) - Poe - 03-25-2014

Poe's Journal Entry

A smell dried flower is pressed between the pages, the imprint of where it had dried still evident against the ink on the page.

I have been thinking…our issues with Crycreed. I have avoided most contact with him. I am unsure he even knows who I am really. Perhaps this could be used to our advantage? I will do whatever I need to if it means securing safety for the crew.

In my excitement of realizing this, I ran off to the ship to speak with some about it. I arrived to find a few talking. I was relieved to see Daevien….why does it feel like it has been ages since we could just sit and speak? I saw Ace briefly. He…he didn’t seem mad at all. If anything, Ace look tired. My head started to throb as we spoke, I felt like there was so much more simmering below the surface of his words. Was this what E-Sumi-Yan meant? I was suddenly exhausted. When Ace left, I wanted to simply sleep. Was I feeling what he was? I am confused by all of this. I want to pull Ace aside and speak to him, I am still haunted at his statement. I don’t want it to be one hundred years before we talk.

When Daevien announced he was off to rest, I had originally planned to speak to S’anhu quickly, but in light of the exhaustion and the pounding headache, I quickly followed behind him. He let me know he would be heading out for a trip. I will admit I was hurt, I finally see him and he is headed out again. I suppose that is how life works though. Once in our room I quickly fell asleep. I awoke this morning and he had headed out. I am not sure when he plans on returning.

I plan to run a quick route up to the Shroud but will return later, I caught wind from Relan that Mota had been in Limsa looking for me. I am not sure what she wants. I can only guess that some of the responsibilities have been handed off to her now. I am surprised she is not with child yet, considering my mother’s intentions when I left.