Memoirs of Adventure Creative Writing Contest (NA) - Official Entry Thread

[NaomiP]

The Sea of Clouds at sunset really is the best place to be, she mused to herself. The warm breeze that rolled by played with her hair and pulled gently at her fishing rod. The thought that "the warm wind is the love of everyone you have ever known, they are kissing you on the cheek!" crossed her mind, though she couldn't remember for the life of her where she might have heard something like that. Was it a Vanu teaching? It sounded like a Vanu teaching. She considered continuing with the mental goose chase, but decided her energy was better spent on the love the wind had carried to her, and allowed herself a small smile as memories of comrades came and went.

With the familiar sensation of a fish on the line, she planted her feet against the island beneath her and braced herself against a tug that threatened to snap the rod in half... but it was none other than the same moogle spirit she had caught four times now.

"I'm just feeding you dinner, aren't I?" she muttered disapprovingly.

It attempted to wriggle free, indifferent.

Throwing it back into the clouds below, she packed up her supply of crane flies and moved to the other side of the island, making herself comfortable between two ferns. Another tug -- a sky faerie this time, the last one she needed. She knew the sea butterfly was below her somewhere, but could only hope that it'd take an interest in the bait this time.

"What an intense face you've got on!" she could hear Sisipu laughing.

"Fishing isn't so serious, you know? It's passive, not active -- you're not hunting the fish, in a way the fish is hunting you! Ah, but not in a life-threatening way... most of the time. Just relax and let the water surprise you with what it’s got!"

She wondered if Sisipu also meant to include the clouds in what she said... or if Sisipu saw a cloudfisher in the small brown Miqo'te that happened to wander into the Fisherman’s Bottom that day.

Oh, a big tug! ...no, just another moogle spirit. But a different one this time, so she felt justified in calling it progress.

She wondered what Sisipu and Wawalago were doing now. She thought too of the Scions (she'd invited them all out fishing at least once, but was met with little interest) -- and moreover, even in the supposed peacetime following the Dragonsong War, how none of them could seem to catch a break except her. She immediately felt a small pang of guilt begin to gnaw at her, and the thought that she had already done so much as the Warrior of Light did nothing to quell it. This quiet time alone in the clouds, did she deserve it? Could she afford to rest on her laurels, let alone this grass?

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sun who, after much colorful fanfare on the opposite side of the sky, finally broke the horizon behind her. Feeling its warmth on the back of her neck, she withdrew her rod and packed up knowing that the sea butterfly had retreated to safety once more.

Another time, then.

(Ahriman Choker)

[OceanWilds]

I knew we shouldn’t have gone into the house. I could feel the evil energy radiating from its ancient doorway as we drew closer. My hands gripping tightly at my staff as I followed closely behind the three in front of me.

The door gave a displeased groan as it was pushed open, reverberating through the air of the musty entry way. Everyone stopped just inside the door but jump as it slammed shut behind us and all our senses became heightened. It became painfully obvious we were not alone in the Manor. The sounds of cackles and creaking things echoed faintly down through the space. It was clear this place was in disarray and had been left empty for all sorts of unholy things to take root.

And take root they did. As we ventured through the house, the living skeletons, succubi, and all other forms of vile creatures put my magic to the test. The elements even seemed to fear this house as I ensured the safety of my team. I could feel the earth around me cry out in pain from all the darkness tainting it. Left and right the cursed advanced seeking to slay and corrupt the intruders who ventured into their stolen sanctuary. However, we had a mission form the people of New Gridania and we had to ensure their safety, especially myself, who prided healing and protecting others above all else. That skill was put to the test as we went against the Manor Jester and Steward, their attacks strong. I could feel the strain as we fought valiantly forward to purify the creatures and lay them to eternal rest. Which we did with much success, but we knew our journey was not done.

Climbing higher into the tainted domain we finally found our mark, the one who ruled them all. Lady Amandine greeted us with murderous contempt as she began her onslaught. It was clear she was a master of thaumaturgy, even our own Thaumaturge had trouble keeping up with her spell casting. Luckily the gladiator that valiantly took charge and drew most of her hatred was able to hold her contempt while we whittled her down. She would not be bested however without a fight. Summoning more of her minions we floated back and forth between protecting our defense and trying to smite the evil once and for all. Several times I came close to reaching a state of mental exhaustion that would prevent me from helping those around me, but taking a few seconds to find my center, I was once again filled with the aetheric energy to keep my party members safe.

When all looked grim, with a mighty cry, our Thaumaturge began to glow and thrusting his staff into the sky, a shower of fallen stars came crashing down. With his mighty attack Lady Amandine gave a feral cry as she faded away into nothingness. With a triumphant cry, the four of us celebrated and began our track back to New Gridania to put the worry of its citizens to rest.

(The Bluebird Earrings)

[Sovasin]

There was something different about you that night. The murmurs of your harp drifted through Kogane Dori, residing impatiently in the background. My eyes alone were drawn to you, but it was clear that they were not the ones you sought. My arms toiled at the anvil while yours danced nervously across taut strings. Silently, I prayed for you - it was clear to me that there was someone you wished to meet under the stars.

Twilight fell, and the moon had finally peeked over the airship landing. Its light shone down on an adventurer, garbed in Eastern scale mail. Your eyes met - and in that fleeting moment I sensed years of companionship. A bond forged in fire and blood. The welcoming smile on your face gave way to words. A conversation ensued - one that I would never hear, nor understand. I didn't need to, though - the ballad you sang that night was all that needed to be said.

He was enraptured. What was going through his mind as the lilt of your harp marched enthusiastically through it? Under his charred visor I could see his eyelids begin to fall. He was oblivious to the crowd that had begun to disperse towards the pier, eager to watch the stars fall. A distant bell struck once, twice, ten times, but the moment you shared continued undisturbed. The eighth verse of your unending lullaby made way for the ninth. My hands had stopped moving completely, and the ingot I held began to glow red - no, golden within my furnace. This tune was one I had never heard before - and yet, what was this overwhelming sense of nostalgia? Even a humble blacksmith like me could tell that this was a chronicle of a calamity long past. I can only imagine what it must have meant to him and yourself.

The moon retreated behind a cloud, and your song had finally come to an end. In hindsight, only moments had passed. But as the adventurer's weary eyes opened once more, I could tell that the respite he found within your lyrics was eternal.

As the last star fell from the sky, the crowd began to coil lazily into Kugane Dori once more. I realized that the ingot I held had begun to cool. I strained to look for the adventurer's armour amidst the crowd, but he had long since disappeared. Your performance resumed once more - refrained, but peaceful.

Many moons have passed since then. I've known for a while that there's something going on out there - a war between Good and Evil, Light and Dark and what not. A constant, endless battle amongst heroes and gods that a blacksmith like me could never comprehend. I never needed to, with Kugane being so far from the conflict. Truth be told, all of this was starting to feel like a fairytale, or a myth of sorts. But there was something about that night that reminded me that the world outside Kugane is closer to home than I thought. I don't know exactly what happened that night, or who that adventurer was. But I feel like I've possibly witnessed a legend in the making.

I pray that the two of you cross paths again.

(Gaelicap)

[Sunchaser]

Another years turns, as we walk ever onward.

The thrill of victory, the sting of defeat. The sorrow of loss...and the comfort of love. All these I have known, as I tread my path; but they are not what drives me.

All those who I see standing tall against the odds—who take up arms, be it their end, and hold their ground through sheer determination.

A Lalafellin royal, shy in years yet laden with weight of wisdom; the beaten but unbowed refugee who carried her. The pirate mistress who sails boldly against the wind. A forest sage, intended a life of quiet solitude, bearing the hopes of the realm.

And those who forsook their homeland, so that of others could be saved...so many now lost.

A wise grand archon; a stodgy old mage; a scholarly maiden, scarcely known, who traded her life with a smile. And a young girl lost in the markets, who would one day spare the fate of a world.

A noble knight of lands frost-fringed, and the sorrowful lady of icebound heart.

I carry you all now, as you carried me then—and we walk ever onward.

For the dashing rogue who hides his pain in bottles and between sheets; the gruff elder sister, driving herself to breaking in her mentor's shadow. For the charming bookworm, always so hidden away with his shelves. For the twins—who I rode a carriage with, when I first came to this world, and now know so well as to call them family.

For the would-have-been Scion, always worried of being a burden, who now carries a nation on her shoulders. The Doman samurai who forgave his most hated enemy; the wayward prince who put his people before his crown. And the daughter of the Ruby Sea, who I could not forsake if I tried, so dear has she become to me.

For the new old friend, thinking I didn't see him under that cowl, who calls me 'inspiration' even when he's now bettered my greatest moments.

All of you reached out for the stars...and it made me so happy that I could lift you that last bit to grasp them.

And to those who walked before, I remember—as we lead those who walk after.

- A Warrior of Light and Darkness



(If chosen, I would like Noble barding, please.)

[xelliexell]

Have you ever met him? I speak of the most amazing man in all Hydaelyn.

I have only encountered him a handful of times, though in each meeting he displayed legendary poise and executed amazing feats. He was a man who could slay Primals -- nay, even the Ultima Weapon, itself -- with but a few swings of his weapon. Wheresoever he went, the mightiest of beasts could be found felled within his wake.

This is not to speak of his prodigious craftsmanship, which has produced objects of the highest quality, time and again. I’d heard that he quickly rose above his peers in the guild -- peerless, absolutely -- and that his art has single-handedly saved many an unfortunate scenario.

His skills are only overshadowed by his kindness. When asked, he has helped everyone from children to The Sultana, arriving when summoned and charitably assisting without any real regard for payment. When people say that the Realm would be lost without him, it is no exaggeration.

All of this does not even touch on the many social skills he has mastered, taking to the most complicated modes of dance with ease. Everyone who has witnessed his movements cannot help but note the palpable emotion found within each step. His very presence is larger than life, shining as a beacon to all who gaze upon him.

The Warrior of Light? No, I’m the Warrior of Light, you see. I hope I haven’t created an embarrassing misunderstanding.

The man I speak of is named Godbert Manderville.

[Zidanjou]

All at once, the security and sanctity of my world, came crashing down. Like one too many pieces had been removed, from the collection of the unity of man. My world, collapsed right before my eyes. What was once sacred, had suddenly been taken from me, right before my eyes.

And without remorse, the cruelty of it all had not seen the fullness of its fruit, until my world fell into darkness and despair. And now, faced with trauma and turmoil, the likes I never thought imaginable.

But we must persevere, for we are the salt of this realm, and the light that must persist through the despair, that would desire us to drown in its sinful pleasures.

So, I ran, but not without regret. And along the way, I was carried away, to your welcoming abode. You, who I once only considered a strong ally, had become my hero of light, in an instant where my world was darkened.

Thank you, for reaching out to me in my hour of need. Without your warm embrace, I would have been lost to the desires of corruption and depravity. I was lost, and you found me, when my hope was found for wanting. I was filled with uncertainty, and you sparked the embers within me. All I can say is, thank you.

Yours is a moment I cherish deeply. A light in the darkness of my world. You, who stood out amongst the shadows, and supported me when I needed it so. The thought rains down on my face, and covers me in both pain and joy. But, because you were there for me, as I desired to do what I could before, I will move onward; strengthened with even more resolve to be strong. Thank you, my old friend.

(My main motif for writing this wasn't to win. But, if I can touch the heart of at least one person, then that is victory in of itself. I guess the Chocobo barding would be cool. I hope though, that my writing, maybe just maybe, helps someone in need. If you are suffering, if you are in pain, I hope you find that special someone. That person, who reaches out, and rescues you in your dark abyss; just like someone had for me.)

[Vinal211]

If you are reading this, I thank you for taking the time to.

Well...I had a lot of adventures all over Eorzea. Gathering materials, collecting gear, killing monsters and people alike...at this point it's hard to remember how my first big journey went. But one thing will always be in my mind. The people who were with me through it all. Some of them my friends. Others my enemies. Some of them are nothing more than fading memory in the sea of my chaotic mind. However, I have to thank all of them. They've shown me the light repeatedly when I thought that I would give in to darkness. I think I wouldn't be able to be here to write this message if it wasn't for their help. So to all my friends I made in Eorzea. To all the enemies who left my life to follow their own. To all those fading away like footprints on the sand...
Thank you. To all of you. And I wish you all the best.

From someone thankful,
A Melancholic Adventurer


(Noble Barding)

[Luna_B]

Until recently, I haven’t actually remembered my fondest memory in ffxiv, but after thinking for a while, I remembered one of my first friends ingame. Sadly I cannot remember her name, as she has not played for a long time to my knowledge, but we both played the game quite extensively up until level 50 in the summer of 2017. During that summer, we both finished the class quests for my WHM and her WAR, and after we had finished up the last story dungeons we said goodbye and went our separate ways into the school year. While this memory only lasted three months, it really felt like a journey throughout, and one I would definitely do again if I could ever meet her again.

[CadetteMevois]

Four years, come and gone…

Indeed, my friend, much time has passed since the first moments you showed me the wonders this world held, the challenges to be faced…

All the while, we did so together.

From the first time I set foot into the Seagrot, to standing side by side against the storm, there’s naught we can’t do, no challenge so insurmountable that we couldn’t roll up our sleeves, dig our heels in, and defiantly press on until the job was done. To the world, to those we know and those we’ve yet to know, we were unstoppable.

Four years, come and gone… Countless challenges taken on…
Friendships and memories made
For many more years, a toast I raise.

[Thanks for reading! If selected, I would love to pick the Mandragora choker]

[Sirveru]

It left a bit of an impression on me, seeing an enemy of such might contain such magnitude of power just from its appearance. I shuddered in anticipation, thoughts racing, not knowing what it was capable of. I saw all of my teammates and wondered what they thought of it while we eagerly awaited the start of the fight.

It didn't look too bad at first, until it gained energy to begin the Slaughter. The prelude, showing us a small glimpse of its power, along with its fighting elegance. After such a devastating move, the actual Slaughter begins, the pace of the fight increasing as time passes. It summons its innocent creatures to help combat us, unknowing to us of their deadly potential.

Then comes his true potential, the part where we're supposed to die, it seemed. After his minions have fallen, some having escaped and left a remnant of what they were in their wake, the beast paralyzes everyone, levitating us and leaving us defenseless to the attacks of the remnants of its minions. After that, it delivers one last blow to truly change the pace of battle, revealing its full potential.

You can hear its voice dominate the battlefield as its followers accompany it, a beautiful chorus as the battle continues between the Warriors of Light and this beast.

The walls began to crumble from its might, leaving us more vulnerable to his powerful attacks. He unleashed a devastating impulse of energy at all directions. My Brother at Arms had been unfortunate and had fallen off the arena, his screams silenced by the end of the fall. I can only fear what else this beast might have in store for us.

Exhaustion started to prevail among us all. Can this beast never die? Its attacks not slowing down as our minds started to fight against us. My other partner could no longer continue as the fight went on, her body collapsed in the middle of the battlefield. "Get up, you can't be done yet!" said our last remaining healer as he revitalized her.

The fight was drawing to an end, the beast slowing down, showing signs of weakness, but so did the rest of the party. I tried to cling on to dear life as my body began to fail me from the excessive damage I've received directly from the beast. "Just... a bit... longer..." I used the last of my strength for my last attack, then collapsed as the rest of the party managed to defeat the powerful primal. It roared as it was bested, those remaining smiling at their victory while tending to the lethally wounded. T'was a fight for the ages.

[If for some miracle I get picked, I would like the Scarf of Wondrous Wit.]