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

[Namwin]

Four summers ago, I innocently began my journey as an adventurer. I thought perhaps the strange lands of Eorzea would sate my hunger for new lands and experiences, but I failed to understand the depth of the world I had stepped into. I underestimated the value of the world I would soon come to save.

Not long after my journey began, I attended the annual seasonal event of Eorzea known as The Rising. There, I saved the world yet again from some impending doom or other. Afterwards, I met the renowned Wandering Minstrel of no small repute. As he regaled my recent adventure with his harp in hand, I felt my mind drawn to a different place altogether.

There, I met a man and his companions who had toiled endlessly to create the world I stood only moments ago. Naoki Yoshida welcomed me to the infamous Eighteenth Floor where he and many others were proud to greet the vaunted hero of Eorzea. I remember a great deal of it so vividly. The artworks plastered along a wooden board, Soken next to a piano, Koji-Fox with his strange Moogle attire, Hiroshi Takai riding the Nightmare mount in such a strange position, Toshio Murouchi excitedly preparing for the next Fan Festival, and many others hard at work in their environments. Yoshida and his companions showered me with accolades one after the other, but soon, a feeling of uncertainty began to overtake me.

I had only just begun my journey. Sure, I had saved Eorzea from the great threat of the Ultima Weapon and Garlemald’s XIVth Legion, but did I deserve the honors and applause from these great people? I’d heard tales of warriors battling their way through the Dragonsong War as I still trudged along slowly absorbing the myriad wonders that Eorzea had to offer. Truly, was I worthy of such praise?

And so, for the many moons that followed, I strove to become the hero they believed me to be. Through many adventures and trials, I have grown stronger and truer to the cause. What was once a world has now expanded into a universe. I have fought through the struggles of betrayal, the thousand-year war between dragon and man, the liberation of homes and countries ripped away from those of faraway lands, and now, even to bring a world on the brink of destruction back to its feet.

I hope that, perhaps one day, I might tell them these things myself. For now, I leave this letter scattered to the winds in hopes it might one day reach all of you. Know that you have created a world, a universe even, worth saving, and I will continue to do so for as long as I am able. There is much and more I wish to say, but perhaps that will come another day.

Though I may yet call myself a Warrior of Darkness, in my heart I feel there is another name that more appropriately captures what I wish to be.

- A humble, but proud Player of Final Fantasy XIV


[Winner Prize Selection: Bluebird Earring]

[Laevatein]

Our Beginning

Good girl. You are nothing without me, you are dust beneath my boots and if not for this cage you wouldn't even be worthy to die against me. You will show me respect or I will crush you like the worm you are.

You will kill all those that I order you to, you will not cry about silly bonds or emotions, you will not hesitate out of some misguided feelings of love or loyalty. You belong to me alone and you'll obey my command.

You are my creature child, my wretch. The secrets I deign to put in your head will never be spoken to another living soul. Swear it!

Your troubles do not concern me. You're weak and you'll have to be stronger than this pathetic show you give me now if you hope to survive. Find your own teachers for your other silly fighting arts, maybe then you'll have a better use. I will teach you one thing and one thing alone of MY arts.

We will break this seal wide open. Somehow, someway, we'll unravel it and you'll do everything you're capable of to assist me in that.

- Name is illegible



[Prize: Gaelicap]

[daltonjl]

To you, the adventurer,

I remember the first time I visited Hemlock. By then, there was precious little left save for three houses, a stable, and a few fences half-buried in the snow. It's a common sight. People come and go in the wake of a calamity. Houses, towns, memories, lives - we leave them behind in our never-ending search for a brighter tomorrow.

Yet for all that I have seen - the lives lost, the loves gained, and above all else, the betrayal - I still cannot forget Hemlock. The three houses, the stables, and the fences, all nestled in the heart of the Western Highlands, lifeless but intact.

Its people must have been happy. The town was so small. They must have all been close to each other. I could see the men and women working in the forest, cutting and tying down trees day after day to make their living. It must have been difficult, yet I have no doubt that they did not mind it in the company of their friends, for a struggle in unity is less a struggle and more an endeavor. I could see the children, blissfully ignorant of their parents' toil as they played amongst their friends - friends that they had no doubt known since their youngest years and would have known until their oldest had the chill not come.

One of the houses must have had an alehouse. The men and women must have spent many hours there, confessing their pains, frustrations, hopes, dreams, fears. They must have loved and loathed their lives, so far removed from the walls of the city, yet so close to the idyllicism they must have craved. The children must have tried to sneak in so, so many times, their curiosity boundless as a child's tends to be, thirsty for the knowledge of the world - knowledge that would inevitably have made its way to them had the chill not come.

I'm sure they must have had their fair share of town gatherings and festivals, as well, filled with the food, song, and dance that the generations had grown up with. I'm sure they worked proudly and tirelessly to hang decorations and signs on the tops of the now-buried fences so all knew that, if only for a day, it was time to let go of their worries. I'm sure they felt a heavy melancholy when it came time to take these decorations down, knowing that another day of work awaited them the next morning. I’m sure the years would have continued to pass in their quiet way had the chill not come.

How quickly it must have ended. How terrible it must have been to leave it behind. How heartbreaking it must have been to move on. The lives lost, the loves gained, the betrayals, the forgiveness, the acceptance, the pure happiness of it all...

They were us. I could see it all in that moment, looking down at the snow-covered square as I sat atop one of the houses, and I knew I could never forget. We must never forget.

Yours truly,
Nate

[I'd like a Gaelicap if I win, please.]

[ImpKing]

Map night with the FC...

As the last monster fell to the ground, one of our group went over to the treasure chest and kicked it open. As the lid rattled open and the smoke filled portal opened above it, we all cheered in unison! Entering through the portal we found ourselves on a platform divided into twelve sections.
“Alright, so now we just press...this!” one of my comrades said, touching his hand to a sphere in the center of the platform. The sphere lit up, and a light began to spin round and round the platform. We waited, tensed with anticipation. Finally, the light stopped around a symbol of three diamonds and a monster erupted from a sudden portal in the center. The fight was intense but we managed to prevail. Again and again we touched the sphere, and the light continued spinning. There was one tense moment as four of the symbols around our platform bore the visage of Atomos, which we knew would blow us out of the dungeon! Once more the light spun, and as it slowed it approached the very symbol we feared. Then the light stopped. Hope began to wither in my chest, and my face fell. Until it moved one last time...onto the symbol for an Elder Summon! Our final one! Mandragoras spawned from one of the portals, and an FC member called out which order to kill them in. With his guidance, we made quick work of them and at last, a chest appeared in the center of the platform. The materials within would fetch a great amount of gil! No amount of gil, however, would exceed the value of this night spent with friends. Even if I hadn’t gotten anything, just this would have been enough.

Noble Barding Please.

[Cathryn-Luminous]

As the time drew nearer, the pounding of my heart only grew greater still. To either side of me, fellow comrades in arms, and before us, a horrid nightmare of past lives. My knuckles grew white as I gripped my bow all the tighter, swallowing down as much fear as I could. We had been preparing for this day, for this moment. Everything would amount to this. How far would we go? Could we even do it? No… We had to. It was our duty to. Steeling myself, I cast one last glance to my companions. The newcomers were trembling, putting on a brave face, while the veterans stood at the ready, weapons drawn, gleams in their eyes. As scared as I was, I followed their example, looking ahead at the horror. In a moment, all was still. The next, the battle began.

From then forward, everything was a whirlwind of motion, blurring my vision as I struggled to keep up. The heat around us was horrid, the waves to follow threatening to swallow us whole. Our legs wobbled beneath us as the very earth threatened to kill us, the ravaging winds threatening to tear us apart at the seams. I watched as my comrades went flying through the air, saved only by our most skilled mages. I watched our warrior stand their ground, axe raised as a giant fist came slamming down into them, nearly knocking them to the side. All the while, I let arrows fly, barely hearing them whiz through the air in the midst of the Chaos. My arms turned to jelly, scarcely able to draw the bowstring. I was terrified beyond any doubt of the imagination. And yet, at the same time, my heart raced harder, blood coursing through me. It was a feeling unlike any other, my body moving on its own. Every step could have been my last, every breath nearly stolen from me. I had never felt so alive.

An eternity had passed, time far out of our grasps. We didn’t know if it had been days, months, or if it had only been an hour. Nonetheless, we fought till, finally, the great nightmare lowered his chin. In an act of desperation, I watched as our monk dashed forward, fists clenched like vice grips. In one hand, light began to flood, bathing them in its warmth. It grew bright by the second, searing white-hot. In an instant, before my very eyes, the monk vanished. A moment later, a blinding, all-consuming light erupted from the nightmare, a chilling shriek screaming out from it. As the light began to fade, the horror disappeared into nothing. I looked around, fearful that it was just a trick. As I looked towards my companions, however, I saw that a trick was the furthest thing from the truth.

Smiles of triumph adorned their faces, their fists raised high in the air. A battle cry rang true, congratulations were dished out in earnest. I found myself falling back, sprawling out on the ground, tired as could be. I could barely believe it. Never would I have guessed that we could have gotten so far. And yet, there we were: We had banished the Chaos. We had won.

(I would like the Scarf of Wondrous Wit please~)

[LyhteNoctis]

"Hear...feel...think..."

How long has it been since those very words drove me from my aimless wanderings to the great deserts of Ul'dah, the evergreen forests of Gridania, the swashbuckling streets of Limsa Lominsa, the snow cloaked peaks of Ishgard and beyond? At times it seems like only yesterday that I started this journey, even though so many years have passed.



They say that it is because of my strength that the realm has the salve it needs to heal, but if it were not for all those who stood beside me, I would never have persevered. Without the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, I would never have known of the power of the Echo and conquered the Primals that plagued the realm. If it was not for the aid of the Grand Companies and Cid, I would have never been able to destroy the Ultima Weapon. However, if it were not for all those I lost, I would never have stood my ground against the Dragonsong War and Storm.



This journey has been a hard one.

And now another beckons me to where you rest. Even though so much time has passed since that day I still remember our adventures within the Crystal Tower.

I can still see the crystalized throne upon Syrcus Towers top. The expansive World of Darkness that seemed to have no end, just like its dark mistress the Cloud. I wonder if Doga and Uni are still in epic blows with that monstrosity or they are now free from their destiny. I pray for the latter.

I also remember you.

When first we met you seemed too eager to jump into danger when it presented itself. I cannot help but laugh at the memory of Cid and Rammbroes continuous attempts to keep you in check. The moment your once emerald left eye took up the same crimson glow as your right, you grew. No longer were you the overeager young man that I first met, but a man who would someday become a great hero in your own right.



Where are you, I wonder, within that massive structure? What did you say as the golden doors closed, finalizing our goodbye? Do you know why he calls me back to you?

I do not wish to cause undue concern to Tataru, for deep down, I know this is a journey I must walk alone to save those who have fallen into a deep slumber. If you are reading this, may it mean that I have succeeded and all I have done has not been in vain. For you are the only one who knows how this story ends.

Wait, could he be? No, never mind.

I promise, no matter what darkness may await me, this story will have a happy ending, by the Twelve and all who have fallen, I swear!

[SynCelestial]

Throughout the years, the time I've invested within Eorzea has developed memories that I've cherished to my core. Recounting my thoughts in search of the fondest brings back all kinds of imagery, from epic endeavors to heartfelt encounters to lackluster pastimes. There would be some truth in saying none of my memories can be held above all others, but the one that I would most regret not to share would be my time with one of the best people I've ever met, something I believe to be a timeless tale.

As the sun sat high in the sky, its rays of light bathed the trees and rooftops of the neighborhood for all sorts of adventurers to bask in and enjoy along the green lush. I had just moved into the Lavender Beds not too long ago, and I was working on decorating a cottage...but not just any cottage; this small home was my very first, and it was all mine.

It would take a few days and trips to other places, one which brought me to Idyllshire, a place still unfamiliar. As I was heading to the summoning bell amidst a busy crowd of different races crafting all around, I noticed a girl up on top of one of the tents...I had no idea how she'd gotten up there! I was still new around those parts, and I knew I must had been missing something. I looked around, though I was admittedly eager to get back to my new home, so finally I did what would sate my curiosity the fastest. I asked the girl, a miqo'te with a pointy hat and stylish glamour, and just like that she showed me the way! I showed my appreciation to her by giving her a rolanberry, one of my favorite snacks. It was exciting to learn something new I'd overlooked, but I was still oblivious to one thing, which is that the kind miqo'te would grow to be one of my best friends.

A few days had passed and I was working on my cottage...I'd had the kind fortune of my new friend in adorning it in a way that made me smile proudly. She was dressed as trendy as ever, and was so kind to me, beyond just helping me furnish my cottage. The miqo'te made silly jokes at every chance she got. It didn't take me long to realize how much she loved a bad pun, or what a total history buff she was. By the time the sun had begun to fall, we climbed up onto my new roof to look out over the lake. I was so happy and relaxed while we laughed about the silliest things.

It's been about two years now, and we talk almost every day over our linkshell. We've found out how much we have in common, and more importantly to me, how much we can trust one another. When I look at her search information now, I grin madly at the comment. "I'm your rolanberry". Each time I see it, I think back to those few days when we met. I think about when the two of us were just sitting up on that cottage rooftop, somewhere I could call home, next to a person that relentlessly made me smile.. In all of my time since I've come to Eorzea, that has been and always will be one of my very best memories.

Gaelicap

[Celestinakitty]

They call it a calamity.

I call it the end of the world. Certainly, it is the end of my life. I spend the last few minutes on the wreckage of our ship as it - and indeed, all of us - continue our slow descent into the blue abyss.

Our ship, dodging flame, fire, famine, bringing supplies to the needy, robbing the Ascian ships of their extra unneeded wealth, restructuring the laws of our area of our sea, is on fire and sinking.

Some have called us pirates, but the crew of the Tuberão, Lalafell one and all, are loyal to our company, to our boss, and to what is right by Lymlaen. Though we may be called pirate, we are all independent souls, relying on the great gifts of the sea and the sky to bear us through this toil and strife.

It has been honest work for honest pay - in that we honestly did the work we were bidden to do. Not sayin’ all the work was honest, mind you, but our blood, sweat, tears, and toil were. We nursed cracks in our hands, our heads, as well as cuts to our souls and soles over mead, ale, and bread. We’d eat like kings and queens onshore, but live on salted dried fish and a handful of grain, boiled in a forge’s light on a ship. Feast or famine, we saw it all. Our coin gold, and good where we landed; never question the source, and it be plentiful.

Calm seas never quite were calm after that day. There was a mighty roar, just as the seers projected, and the wall of water fell upon the village. We were all on board, holdin’ on for dear life as the wave swept us out to Hydaelyn knows where. It took us a few days to get our bearings and we floated in an area that was unfamiliar, but we pressed on.

But tonight, a clear night at dusk, the great Leviathan rose from the depths to smite us down. We managed to go hard to starboard, but lashed up on rocks. In the rising flood, there are no survivors. I write this and cast it into the sea, my home for the last 20 years, in hopes that one day it will be opened. Lord Leviathan claims more victims, and sea has in fact swallowed all.

Lymlaen, be merciful… my body now belongs to you. See me safely home….



Captain Alili Ali, last of her name

(If I win the contest, I’d like the Gaelicap, please.)

[mizutsunecafe]

(Should my entry be chosen, I would love to have the Gaelicap, please!)

Warrior of Light, my dearest friend—

I pray you can forgive me for remaining at your side. I had thought to go on ahead, but I couldn’t leave you. I know I can hardly protect you anymore, but I suppose I am too stubborn to move on.

You astounded me time after time. Your selflessness. Your smile.Your kindness. Again and again, I thought myself the luckiest in the world to be counted among your friends. But when I looked upon you that cold, hopeless morning, saw the pain in your gaze— I knew I could never let you look so sad again.

And so I had promised myself I would protect you. That no matter the cost, I would be as your shield. I had thought I had no regrets when I felt that lance’s cold steel through me, but when I saw your eyes, I knew I had made a mistake.

I had ever thought my destiny was to do as I did then- to die protecting the person I loved above all else. But I saw the look in your eyes- I hadn’t spared you pain for taking that blow for you. I should have done something else, should have thought, should have formed a plan first, as I had always warned you to- but I didn’t. And it’s you left behind to pay for that, to see things through. I am so, so sorry.

I can’t leave you all alone just yet. Not when there is still so much you have to do. I swear to you, I will stay at your side and aid you as much as I can until the bitter end.

Just promise me- you’ll still smile, won’t you? As I said back then- it truly suits you best. And your happiness means more to me than anything.

Ever watching over you

H. G.

[Kuwago]

It was many moons ago, although it always feels like it was yesterday.

The horrors that transpired that fateful night showed how one could be easily corrupted. Thankfully, nothing was leaked to the public about the state of the sultana. If even one word was spread, the whole of Eorzea will be put in turmoil.

A beloved hero fallen in disgrace. That was their goal.

The people will think it was true, yet it was all a set up to discredit Eorzea’s Champion and bring a coup towards Ul’dah’s monarchy.

Disowned by those who we’ve helped. Betrayed by those we’ve trusted. How wayward of me to believe that I can shoulder the burden of his achievements when all I’ve done is ride on his coattails.

Yet he kept his smile, bright and cheerful and unwavering as always. Their smile, I’ve always found comfort in them, the one I can fully trust and the one who’ve always trusted in me even though I was the sole reason that we are in this situation.

I was naïve. How childish of me.

I have failed.

Anger, embarrassment, disappointment, I know not exactly what I felt nor what to feel.

Even in the face of adversity, he had that selfsame expression on his face. This time, it was directed towards me, urging me to move on. He who save this land, he who inspires others, he who is the symbol of hope. Even after everything I’ve caused, he still puts his faith in me, this time, I shall put my faith in him.