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Pioneering the first official alteration in PiB Catalogue history, makes her mark in haute couture!
Putting a Hingan twist to the Ryoqor Terteh-inspired Blessing of Moonlit Snow, the intricate diamond patterns and snowflake embellishments have been superseded by a different form of imagery popular in Far Eastern symbolism.
Amidst the cascading silken sea of obsidian black and ruby red blooms the alluring-yet-deadly flowers of the higanbana, or Spider Lily; Nightshade, and Lily of the Valley. This careful arrangement of plants weave together the name of this kimono: "静寂の中の優雅さ", which translates to "Elegance in Silence" in the Hingan language.
Accented with gilded trim, gloves of dark velvet, and brought together with a lotus flower comb and spider lily obi, this ensemble was created to better suit the summer and autumn seasons in contrast to the wintry undertones of its predecessor. The flowers billowing from this kimono belies a clever message: that even if flowers wither and fade, heralding the end of all things, the deceit brought by death... belies its hidden beauty.
The return of Higuri Regalia's Annual Largesse has been announced! For brevity's sake, all the necessary information is provided in the carrd link above. We look forward to providing for you all for another year.
With the rise of new events come new trends, and the ever-vigilant minds behind the Power in Beauty Catalogue are always at the forefront of new innovative ways to express oneself through aesthetic. This addendum to the Eikon Collection is an ethereally eerie take on the universal concept of memories and death.
This ghostly, high-tech, winged garment has been given the name of "The Ageless Truth" - a symbol to the meaning of "Memento Mori" - which is a common phrase in the Garlean tongue meaning "Remember that you must perish".
While not meant to offend or bring dread to consumers and onlookers alike, the Alexandrians have fostered a culture that revolves around defying one's passing and the preservation of memories. The recent news of Necron - a primal born from the Darkness of Eternity - spurred the Higuri Regalia into action, and once more has the realm-spanning fashion emporium succeeded in bringing its likeness into the high fashion stage.
A gown of pale white and periwinkle, with a trail of shimmering sparkles - a simple yet no less elegant design - adorned with a set of ornamental wings with watchful eyes ever gazing from behind and in front - as though guiding wayward souls to a serene afterlife. Rings resembling the regulators worn by most Alexandrians adorn the wrists and arm as bangles, with a large halo levitating just behind the wearer. A holographic glyph can be seen lit softly within its center, and upon the breast is the emblem of an hourglass - the wings which adorn it reminiscent of the Alexandrian insignia. To bring the entire ensemble together, a circular corona is complemented by a ghostly shroud, and begets the visage of a gentle spirit in passing, or a silent mourner, cherishing memories made with those who walked before - another concept closely held by many an Alexandrian.
May those who bear Necron's likeness do so without fear of what awaits beyond this world, for it is better to be remembered than consigned to oblivion. The Ageless Truth is more than just attire: it is a symbol of the ephemerality of life, and shows the high fashion realm that even death can be beautiful.
War leaves its trail~
In moonlight so pale~
Its shadows they flow~
In rivers, in rivers~
So put on my mask~
I'll go where they ask~
So I might once again see the~
Roses of May~
From a tale recalled by the Higuri Regalia’s newest Gem Connoisseur, a single flower blooms its way into the realm of high fashion. But every rose - no matter how beautiful - has its thorns. A chivalric garb makes its mark in the T.A.E., paying homage to a legendary knight of Alexandria: the esoterically-named Third Astral Rose.
Though Alexandria is the ninth shard, the inspiration of the name comes from a ballad sung for a lonely knight who served her kingdom to her dying breath during the Storm Surge. Zelenia Triantafylli was her name, and though she was second-in-command to Alexandria’s Royal Knights, she was no less fierce on the battlefield.
The Third Astral Rose is an elegant duster-coat hybrid with a scarlet-colored collar and a sleeve which covers a single arm, with frills that give off the appearance of scale mail. Armored gauntlets and boots are also provided to this ensemble for practical purposes without sacrificing comfort. Dancing all around the length of the coat are embroidered patterns giving the appearance of runic markings, said to carry a scintilla of the knight’s deceptively powerful, rose-adorned magicks, and may even ward its wearer from harm. It apparently also gives off the faint aroma of roses.
Alexandria’s emblem - a divine longsword flanked by seraphic wings - is emblazoned on either side of the coat, and Zelenia’s own weapon, Save the Queen, completes the attire in the form of electrope-forged earrings that can come as a single or paired item. A surefire addition to any aspiring knight’s wardrobe, the Third Astral Rose will be your gear of choice to bring glory to Alexandria, haute couture, or your sworn liege of choice!
Led here by fate…~
No longer afraid…~
So here now I lay…~
My Roses of May…~
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This particular addition to the realm of high fashion pays homage to a certain Mamool Ja who once commanded Tuliyollal’s Landsguard. Zoraal Ja, who became Alexandria’s King of Resolve, is that Mamool Ja, and the sole inspiration behind this item that has been dubbed the Resilient Tabard.
Blending traditional Turali and modern Alexandrian styles culminated into this array, which is nothing short of imposing from all angles. The feathered headpiece and diadem were the hallmarks of Zoraal Ja, and the argent collar necklace and cloak-with-pauldron pay further respects to the King of Resolve.
The Tabard itself bears traditional markings and embellishments, and radiating fiercely upon its lower half are the very blades he wielded, showing off a stark image of power within the electrope-lined attire.
An excellent piece of formalwear for any occasion, and a reminder to all that uneasy lies the head that wears a crown. But just like his title dictates, you too can embrace the strength that Zoraal Ja embodied. Don the Resilient Tabard and become a beacon of resolve in the realm of high fashion.
MODEL: Swoztu “Swozzy” Wuotwyrstwyn, the Junoesque
Whenever Solution Nine is mentioned, one imagines bright lights of violets, blues, and pinks; fluorescent, breathable streetwear; electrope as far as the eye can see, and a nightlife that would bring even the Golden Saucer to shame. Now, thanks to the astute minds behind the Higuri Regalia’s PiB Catalogue, that can be brought to form!
Another product of the burgeoning genius Apprentices Izzy & Meredith: introducing to the couture realm is the Bleeding-Edge Finery: a lovely piece of wear suited to the environs of Everkeep’s most prolific district. Inspired by an electrope-infused forgekin, this garment comes in two parts.
The sleek and shimmery blazer bears a distinguishable emblem with the item’s name glowing on the back, and comes with a pair of glasses with similar make that stand out and look good. It can be worn on its own, or with the rest of the ensemble…
The second part of said ensemble is the stunning, low-cut cocktail dress with sequined violet jewelry that lines the gilded torso and trails down the front length, stopping right at the wearer’s legs. Long blue-and-gold opera gloves also adorn this alluring piece of aesthetic work, and comfortable electrope boots that bring the entire outfit together with a Solution Nine flair.
Alexandria makes its mark in the realm of high fashion with the Bleeding-Edge Finery. Whether you take on the nightlife with any combination, you’ll be sure to make a statement. Because in the fashion world, “cutting-edge” just doesn’t sometimes cut it.
Taking a more modern approach to nightwear comes the Starless Nightdress - a bodycon suit made with Thundersilk and flexible materials that conforms to any body type. This item’s creation was overseen by Princess Izayoi and Meredith Llaevar, Lord Thiji’s esteemed Diamond Apprentices.
Despite its long and flowing electrope-infused sheer cape and multicolored neon bands, this “cyberpunk-inspired” (a term apparently coined by adventurers) dress is also a form of innerwear; with clever mix-and-matching, this piece - while stylish on its own - can complement other articles as well to create your own unique wardrobe!
The Starless Nightdress also comes with glasses resembling a visor, shielding the eyes of the Warden’s rays, and looking good while doing so in any setting. Completing the set with a pair of levin-purple shoes, this will make one appear as though they were gliding across a sunless sea as streaks of light dance about them. Who says nightwear can’t be fashionable? Definitely not the Higuri Regalia.
By popular demand from one of Alexandria’s renowned fashionistas, an entry into the T.A.E. brings with it a splendour like none other. Representing the more glamorous side of Alexandria comes the Gemlight Gown - secondarily known as the Dias-Robe.
Formulated by the Hyune celebrity Diaspro, Queen of Gems and the newest liaison within Lord Thiji’s Angels, the Gemlight Gown is created using esoteric techniques known only to her and House Higuri. It primarily resembles the Alexandrian’s signature formalwear: an elegant two-piece ballgown with a court train, but the true beauty behind this item - and its greatest feature - is that the entire gown scintillates with the wearer’s favorite gem - displayed proudly over the chest.
Be it a birthstone, zodiacal stone, or a jewel that a person simply “resonates” with the most, the colors of that crystal - and its aetherial signature - seep into the cloth, creating a unique and breathtaking appearance for any wearer. This also means that there is no “base” color for this particular piece of high fashion, implying that no two gowns are the same - unless, of course, a gemstone is shared between two individuals.
Together with the power of gems and mastery over clothcraft, the Gemlight Gown is Diaspro’s magnum opus, a glamorous Higuri Regalia ensemble, and a gorgeous representation of the finer side of Alexandria’s halcyon times. Feel like a princess (or prince) of gemlight and discover the secrets behind the glimmer and gleam!
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Ladies, gentlemen, and those in between: the time has come once again! After yet another long winter’s time of gathering resources, the Higuri Regalia is proud to announce the return of the “Regalia Largesse” - marking its eighth occurrence!
For those unaware or uninitiated: The Regalia Largesse is an annual event spanning anywhere between 5-8 days that occurs around the late spring/early summer, and is considered the “pinnacle of Noblesse Oblige”!
During this event, individuals from the Higuri Regalia’s hierarchy will make appearances within the various city-states to offer wares to the adventuring public - FOR FREE (Tips and donations are always greatly appreciated, but never mandatory)!
Link to the Regalia Discord here!
On Sunday, May 11th, at around 7PM EDT, look for a Party Finder ad from any one of the Regalia members; they will provide you information on where they are, and what items will be offered, with a detailed list of what’s available while supplies last. Due to the ever-increasing quantity of wares, their post duration has been extended to three hours.
NOTE: Due to over 65% of Crystal being Congested, this year all but the last day's locations will take place in the Zalera World.
Also, throughout the week, starting at the commencement of the Largesse, those who are willing to partake in a special contest will receive a number. On last day of that week (i.e. the end of the Largesse), a raffle will take place where a series of numbers will be drawn, and those who win will be offered prizes!
RULES:
*To enter the raffle, you can enter in one of two ways: you simply ask the representative currently posted during that day, or (NEW) complete submit the Google form in the link provided here. A tracker is kept throughout the course of the event, and is shared amongst the Regalia members.
You MUST attend the final day of the Largesse in order to qualify for a chance to win.
In the event you are unable to attend the raffle for any reason, you are allowed 1 proxy to vouch for you, so long as they state whom they are replacing.
If your number happens to be drawn, you are offered a chance to decline a particular prize if you have eyes on another, but a winner will be decided for the sake of fairness.
Notes: Sprouts (New Players/Adventurers) will receive Flying Beds and/or attire Coffers as a consolation gift.
The prize list includes the following, and are subject to change:
1st Place Winners: A Chrysomallos Horn/Magitek Avenger G1 Identification Key/Gilded Mikoshi Horn/Golden Ronkan Flute! (4 winners)
2nd Place Winners: A Qeziigural Horn! (x2 each; 6 winners)
3rd Place Winners: A full set of Free Spirit’s Attire! (5 winners)
4th Place Winners: A Figmental Weapon Coffer! (10 winners)
Note: stock may (and will) expand between now and the commencement of the Largesse, so everything listed herein is not final.
Look for these beautiful individuals throughout the week for the item(s) of the day.
Sunday, May 11th: Isja “Coldgaze” Kaltablik (Ul’dah, Steps of Nald; Arrzaneth Ossuary)
Parasols (Black; Sky Blue; Vermillion Paper; Pleasant Dot; Prim Dot; Pastoral Dot; White Lace; Plum Paper; Calming Checkered; Cheerful Checkered; Classic Checkered; Giant Leaf; Tsukumogami; Sabotender; Blue Blossom; Raindrop Defense System)
Monday, May 12th: Treasurer Susuna Suna (Ul’dah, Steps of Thal; The Gold Court)
Items:
Modern Aesthetics (A Close Shave; Gyr Abanian Plait; Samsonian Locks; Both Ways; Scanning for Style; Battle-ready Bobs; Wind Caller; Controlled Chaos; Early to Rise; Form and Function; Modern Legend; Saintly Style; Ambitious Ends; The Bold and the Braid)
Tuliyollal itself would not be left out of its own clothing line. With fine wear for both males and females, the capital of Tural takes to the fashion scene with Morrow’s Majesty!
Proudly shown on either garment is the flag of Tuliyollal, strategically set against the backdrop of greens and reds commonly worn amongst its people. Heavily embellished from head to footwear, this outfit is highly customizable as it also comes with a crown-like headpiece resembling Vollok Shoonsa: the gilded palatial structure which towers over the Aetherial Climb. Whilst a female variant is also available, both are further complemented by the veil once seen worn by the late Head of Reason Gulool Ja Ja.
High-quality fabrics proudly displaying the nation's colors and embroideries, this lovely Tuliyollan set is an easy solution to beat the tropical heat of Tural, and a wonderful complement to a stroll down the Bayside Bevy Marketplace. Perhaps in the coming days this may grace the wardrobe of off-duty Landsguard soldiers!
With each day brings new promises, and those wearing Morrow’s Majesty will do the proverb justice as they walk their own trail towards a new dawn of fashion - ever forward, starry-eyed… to an open sky.
(Credit and thanks to CluoraStefany for the creation of this masterpiece!)
A rather curious request from a paramour: attire suited for battle, but also left a lot of skin showing to please the senses. Fortunately, the Higuri Regalia could do just that.
Leaning more on his apprentices as per their area of expertise, Thiji, Izzy, and Meredith created this war regalia suited for female fighters traipsing through the jungles of Kozama'uka and Yak T'el. Gilded mythrite protects the torso, upper, and lower extremities, and a grass skirt made of durable reeds help provide camouflage and coverage, all brought together with a radiant circlet of shining najool leaves.
The aptly named "Jungle Minx's Battlegarb" might in fact be just what lady adventurers will need if they ever wish to explore the untamed marshes and forests of the realm.
"You will NOT request that I create a chainmail bikini..." -Thiji Higuri
Ever continuing efforts in bettering relations with the allied societies, the Higuri Regalia made first contact with the native Hanuhanu of Kozama’uka, and rumors spread quickly of their upcoming line that the avian peoples were all too eager to contribute!
The huipil is but one of many types of clothing worn by the indigenous Turali; what makes this particular one special is that it is woven primarily with the very reeds that the Hanuhanu use in their day-to-day activities, which naturally gives it unparalleled breathability due to its heavy wind-aspected signature.
While the bright colors and decorative embroideries are pleasant in their own right, the crowning feature of this outfit is that it bears the likeness of Kixaihih - the deity revered by the Hanuhanu, and the very being which blesses them with the power of the wind. The leggings come with feet resembling moccasins, and can be comfortably worn with additional footwear for those looking to traverse rough terrain, and the feathered headdress of the Hanu deity brings it all together, displaying a proud sight from any angle.
The cleverly-named Kixai’huipil is an excellent compliment to any wardrobe looking for some New World flair, whether you’re out for a breezy stroll through the mire, or seeing the sights with the Turali Travel Agency!
This became the point in Etheirys's history when the western waters were finally made safe for seafaring travel, and opened wide the gates of exploration to the New World, Tural. The Higuri Regalia, ever pushing the boundaries of haute couture, joined the masses in a mission of diplomatic trade - reconnoitering the land and immersing themselves in the rich culture of the many races - some new, some familiar - which inhabited the land.
This mission became twofold when the phenomenon of interdimensional fusion brought the futuristic realm of Alexandria into the Source, its remnants enclosed inside a massive dome of levin looming over Tural's northern reaches, in the region known as Yyasulani. Despite this turn of events, the people of Alexandria also have a culture of their own, from the archaic times of chivalrous knights, to the technological revolution through electrope, which became their greatest asset in the offset of a fulgurous calamity.
Having absorbed all they could and making numerous allies in the process, the Higuri Regalia has obtained their latest breakthrough which would bring unto the world their tenth clothing line: Tural itself. Fitting such a massive continent into a pre-existing line such as the Hydaelyn Runway would not do the New World any justice, for there are far too many aspects to capture and introduce to the world at large, further compounded by the existence of Alexandria, a nation that has quickly become a favorite topic amongst adventurers.
Now set to conquer the realm of fashion for the tenth time, this new line of apparel brings together all of the many colors and aesthetics from every corner of Tural, as well as the unique, fluorescent chic from Alexandria, taking its levin-derived designs to new heights. Ever backed by his connections in Radz-at-Han and the Near East proper, alchemists, seamsters, and lapidarists feverishly worked in tandem with the Higuri Regalia to bring forth a memorable decim of haute couture. Thus would be born...
...the T.A.E.: The Turali-Alexandria Edition.
Opening the catalogue’s contents, you would find a picture of the Diamond Sultan and his promising apprentices on the very first page, and a foreword on the other, undoubtedly by the aforementioned merchant-lord of fashion…
“Greetings, reader. I am Thiji sor Higuri, Diamond Sultan of the Higuri Regalia. Beyond this page lies the Power in Beauty Catalogue’s Turali-Alexandria Edition - a collection of various ensembles of peerless make dedicated to the many cultures and peoples that inhabit the New World. If you have the drive and the will to achieve new heights of fashion, we humbly welcome you to browse. However, per protocol, I must warn all new customers who catch wind of this of an important detail:
Due to the amount of passion and dedication put into this extensive catalogue, we of the Regalia have implemented a special deal to cater to those who are less favorable towards hostile conditions. While the outfits and accessories themselves are set at prices that could potentially make the Syndicate’s coffers shudder, a generous discount is offered to those who choose to commission these with an Anti-Glamour enchantment. This ensures the garments are unmarred and ultimately broken beyond repair - Sisters forbid - as numerous people are so insistent on charging into battle wearing the most impractical of outfits…”
"With that out of the way, I wish to introduce to the fashion world once again to my Diamond Apprentices. You already know of Izayoi T. Keer, or Izzy Sapphira, who has shown much promise in recent moons. The Higuri Regalia has been further graced by the addition of Meredith Lleavar into its ranks, whom is a seamstress of considerable skill in her own right. Under the Regalia's snowy wings, she will be joining her peer in honing their skills as they strive to reach greater heights in the fashion realm. Specially marked pages within this line denote outfits invented in tandem by both Miss Izayoi and Miss Meredith; we pray you are pleased with what they have contributed."
“As always, you may send all commission requests to either myself, Treasurer Susuna, Baroness von Suna, or any of my Head Secretaries if you are interested in receiving enlightenment.”
“Now, seeker of fashion - when you are prepared, you may turn this page, and learn why the Regalia’s motto is ‘Where There is Power in Beauty.’“ -Thiji Higuri
(Starting the day after this post, and every several days thereafter, a new set of attire or accessories will be showcased. This will simulate the turning of a page whilst giving each piece ample time to be appreciated.)
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“Honorable friends, associates, and allies of the Regalia,
I pray that this message finds you all well. As for myself, it is with great pride that I voice my own tidings of good health. The continual stability of the realm and its regions is once again a testament to the strength and resolve of the countless protectors of Etheirys.
But, as always, this only affirms my statement that the realm continues to maintain its status quo of perennial incursions, supernatural uprisings, and all-around buffoonery. The Abyssal Gala was another resounding success, which marks the Higuri Regalia's ninth thus far, and with matters over the Near East brought to a relative calm, I will proceed to the crux of this missive.
To those unaware, I have spent the better part of this cycle on a mission of diplomatic trade that would take me far to the west, in the continent of Tural. It is there that I learned a great deal about myself and that I, like all of us, are a small part of what is to be a grander scale. No person is an island, despite if anyone prefers solitude. Much like the Dawnservant trekked across Tural to learn the land, its people, and its cultures, I have also gathered my own new assortment of friends as I explored the New World with my family and Angels. If anyone ever wants to see a Pelupelu with a gun, I will be more than happy to arrange that.
Moving on from the brief moment of levity, and the most important of tidings: the announcement of the Regalia’s upcoming line. To those still new to our wares, the aforementioned Abyssal Gala was made in homage to the Dark-wreathed beings of the Thirteenth shard - the Void - namely those who hold a place within its noble hierarchy. This time around, the script will be flipped as my latest breakthrough was none other... than Tural itself. With the myriad societies and races which comprise Tuliyollal and even Alexandria, there is much aesthetic to be gleaned from its locales as well as the nations that inhabit it - both big and small. The many unique designs and colors will no doubt amaze all who will eagerly partake in this new addition to the Power in Beauty Catalogue.
Furthermore, This will also mark our tenth clothing line to date since I've steered the Higuri Regalia down this new path. I have gained no small amount of experience since taking the reins of the Regalia from my father, and while I have had my own series of failures and shortcomings, I have gone through excruciating pains to grow from them and better myself as a person and as a leader. As a result, many people's dispositions have, and will, change over the years, and while some cannot be swayed to a more favorable light - whether through personal preference or stubbornness, for lack of a better term - we alone know what we want most at the end of the day, and what I desire more than anything now is the fulfillment of the Regalia's mission: to enlighten and enliven - through haute couture and generosity, respectively. Even should the Higuri Regalia stand alone in this pursuit, I and my Angels will remain steadfast and see to its success with each passing turn of the sun. I thank all of those who have continued to believe in the Higuri Regalia to this day.
Lastly, and this may come off as a surprise to some as my business prides itself on generosity: in light of these auspicious events, I have taken the liberty of providing you all with a teaser of what to expect when this clothing line is brought to fruition. Enclosed within are two “sample” photos of the many outfits that will be showcased in this upcoming edition to the PiB Catalogue - one from Tuliyollal's many native races, and one from Alexandria. By the time of this letter's creation, we are eighty-five percent towards its completion.
Much like our previous lines, expect its grand unveiling by the coming of spring - for all, and Etheirys at large, will be reminded why my empire’s credo is ‘Where There is Power in Beauty.’”
Sincerely,
Thiji Sor Higuri, Diamond Sultan of the Higuri Regalia
"Did you hear?" asked a young Hyune male to an Eldite woman with whom he was conversing, "There's been a whole slew of challengers wanting a piece of the action in the Arcadion since it reopened!"
"As if I'd miss a single beat of the know!" the Eldite replied with a chuckle, strolling down True Vue amidst a crowd of other Alexandrians. "I hear tonight's match wasn't planned, but it should be nothing the Gem Lancer can't handle!"
Solution Nine - the popular residential district within Everkeep - was apparently abuzz with rumors of an upcoming shotgun match with one of Alexandria's renowned fighters taking on a yet-unknown combatant. The sheltered people living within the electrope dome were practically starving for entertainment - any means of escape from the recent tragedy of their beloved Queen Sphene. With the revival of the Arcadion (pun not intended), however, that need would be assuaged. Along with new connections beyond the dome being made possible, the Alexandrians now had the opportunity to explore a realm as foreign to them as it would be for those coming into Yyasulani. And whilst some embraced this monumental shift, others could not dare to turn down a spectacle of martial and magical prowess the likes that only the Ascension Arcadia Championship could provide.
Within the confines of the great tower which loomed over True Vue, a woman slowly made her way down a long, dark tunnel, her strides slow, confident, and dignified - the hallmarks not unlike that of a princess's. As her footfalls echoed throughout this long hallway, the quiet roar of cheering could be heard as she proceeded closer and closer towards the blinding light at its end.
Save for the ubiquitous regulator resting upon her left temple, this Hyune woman was of fair skin and sported a maroon-and-ivory corset dress, with puffy sleeves and two light purple swirly bracelets that traveled up her forearms. She also had upon her head a light purple headband tiara with a large red jewel that appeared to be a jasper. She had wavy, pale blonde hair that trailed at the hips, with a single long curl draped over her right shoulder; thin, ruby red lips, and orbs of amber or a citron orange, with eyeshadow to match.
"How audacious - that people from beyond the dome would be so brazen as to challenge Alexandria's finest warriors with no enhancements. Well, I suppose it will do for a good show. If they wish to risk life and limb before an audience of thousands, then more power to them. I'll ensure this upstart's arc comes to a jewel-spangled conclusion!" the woman mused inside her head, a smirk creeping along her features. The cheering of the crowd grew louder as she neared the blinding light at the tunnel's end, letting it envelop and invigorate her, the crowd's cries reaching a crescendo as she crossed the threshold...
[The day prior...]
Outside of Everkeep, the cacophony of levin striking the ground and pylons filled the air. Far beyond the Ward - the great electrope wall which split the eastern and western reaches of Yyasulani - stood what remained of Alexandria, with the former royal palace in the horizon, now lying within a crater of lightning which seemed to crackle and churn endlessly. Amidst these submerged and derelict ruins were scenes of battle - broken husks of what was once automated sentries, now rendered defunct and haywire due to... neglect? Errors in code? Whatever the case, there were a fair number of them strewn about, and the sharp sound of steel against steel was heard as another would be cut down before ultimately being defenestrated from a worn-down two-story house, landing on the submerged ground in a chorus of clanking metal.
This particular manse was one of the more fortunate to withstand both time and calamity, though its interior left much to be desired. The roof was kept mostly intact, allowing little light within the attic. When the sentry was sent crashing below, however, a bright flash shot out from the broken window, as if yearning to be free. The one who bore witness to this was a lone Milalla, garbed in the kind of attire in which someone of a noble house would be seen, with a large capeline hat of royal blue adorning her head.
Resting on her hip was a grimoire of peculiar make, boasting a bluish covering, and within its contents were the etchings and geometries of an involute tome. Disregarding the mechanical corpse, she would remove this grimoire from its bindings and slowly remove the quill. A moment later, three other blonde-haired Milalla armored in the effects of the local Yyasulani Hunters - and each boasting full masks of different colors - would emerge from the hole in the wall, waving down to their blue companion as though signaling her.
With a silent nod, she would take a deep breath before putting pen to paper, tracing her quill along the intricate glyphs as a circle of power began to form around her. As she traced, it would shift in color - from green, to red, to blue... and finally orange. Once this happened, she would complete her murmured incantation, slapping the page with an open palm before raising it into the air, completing the summoning...
... to reveal an orangish-brown Carbuncle. The Milalla pumped her fist in the air, silently reveling in her successful incantation; the three Milalla followed with applause. Their brief moment of celebration over, it was time to investigate the scene. The dapper Milalla arcanist entered the ruined establishment, ascending the stairs to be greeted by her compatriots surrounding a large orb. It was opaque in look and texture, with a white-to-blue gradient, and levitated several fulms from the floor. Any attempts to get near it would be repulsed by a thin tessellating barrier that shimmered periodically in and out of view.
Whatever this diminutive quartet was after, it lied within that massive marble. Opening her grimoire once more, the blue Milalla channeled aether into the orange Carbuncle, empowering it as it curled into a ball, spinning in place as it rapidly gained speed. At the height of its acceleration, it would propel itself forward, crashing into the orb. The resulting clash of aetherial signatures would cause a reaction within the sphere, shattering the barrier and eventually causing cracks to form upon its surface. The fractures would split and creep along the circumference of the orb, streaks of whitish-blue light escaping from the needle-thin spaces... until finally bathing the area in an ivory radiance as the orb finally shattered.
Some time would pass. It was now a half-bell before the bout.
Within the lobby of the Arcadion, the entire area was vacant save for a lone Milalla male, sitting upon a bench. His face was obscured by an argent helmet, with white tufts of fur jutting from the bottom end. His entire upper body was bare, revealing a rather lean form with some musculature, and even boasting six-pack abs. Finally, he had on a pair of ice blue brais that was tucked into a pair of sabatons.
About five ticks later, the double doors leading deeper into the compound would open; a Hyune woman with medium-length tresses and wearing in a tuxedo and skirt - all in white - strode towards the Milalla with a smile. Chained to her left wrist was a strongbox that was reinforced in some dark metal - different from that of electrope. Once within arm's reach of the man, she would take out a key from her inner breast pocket, freeing her fettered forearm and laying the case beside him on the bench, before finally greeting him with a low bow. As she rose from it, she would slide him a wink, to which he would simply respond with a curt nod of the head.
"Hello, North Wind," she began, "And welcome to the Arcadion! I am known as Howlita, and I have been chosen as your sponsor for this upcoming match-up. As you are aware, the Arcadion boasts a large roster of Alexandria's most talented fighters, and to proceed in any matches throughout the Ascenion Arcadia Championship, you will require a second to vouch for your skills. Fortunately, however, your opponent is not a champion, but is a combatant of the Cruiserweight tier, so further approval was required in order to authorize this coming duel. I have done extensive research on your abilities, and the higher-ups have deemed you worthy of participating in Alexandria's greatest entertainment venue! But with that out of the way, let us proceed to the opponent you will be facing shortly."
Gesturing towards the large phasmascape-like screens flanking him, they would begin to activate as if on cue, fading into a white screen that remained static for several seconds before it transitioned to his adversary...
"Your opponent tonight is the one and only 'Princess Diaspro', known by her peers and fans within the Arcadion as 'Gem Lancer'. Despite being labeled as such, she holds no true claim over the royal line, and it is merely a title she has earned due to her uncanny knowledge of gemstones and jewelry. As her name suggestions, she boasts some proficiency with the polearm, but contrarily, it is not where lies her true strength. She commands a wide variety of magicks pertaining to that of gemstones, which implies her true mastery lies in arcanima, bringing the full potential of gems to bear upon her foes."
Her gaze would shift from the screen to momentarily focus upon the strongbox with which she had entered. "The special gear contained within that case should help make up for your chosen combat style's inherent lack of ranged capabilities. Furthermore, as a reminder: Arcadion fighters augment their abilities with feral souls, with the potency and variance depending on the tier. The Gem Lancer is a contender of the Cruiserweight tier, and as such, has a rather unique feral soul that sets her apart from her peers. Through her influence, she gained clearance to command the powers belonging to that of a faerie-like creature, which enhances her manipulation of gemcraft and, of course, granting her the ability of flight."
After that rather in-depth analysis of the Gem Lancer concluded, the screen would then transition to the view of a round chamber, connected at both ends by tunnels which both combatants would enter. It was a resplendent battlefield glinting with floating jewels of all colors, shapes, and sizes. The ring itself was circular, and had upon its surface the silhouette of the Gem Lancer's head facing sideways. "The Arcadion also creates arenas befitting that of its fighters," Howlita continued, "and the area upon which you will be dueling her is known as 'The Glimmering'. The entire arena is crystalline, including the very floor upon which you'll stand, but it is durable enough to withstand heavy impacts, so fear of falling is nonexistent. As an affirmation, the boundaries are protected by invisible barriers; the Gem Lancer prefers a fair fight."
With the explanations finished, Howlita would turn back to the Milalla - known apparently as the North Wind - with a confident grin. "I was also told that you wish to face this Princess of Gems without a regulator - and without backup. That is very bold of you, sir, and while I am certain you have your reasons..." She would pause to flash him another wink. "... I should still advise you to use caution. With that being said, I will be watching the entire spectacle with much interest! Good luck, and have fun!"
Once more time would march on, and the hour of the battle had now arrived.
The crowd's cheers intensified upon the arrival of the Gem Lancer, her beloved fans waving signs and glowsticks frantically, eager to gain her attention. She kept a rather lofty disposition, her arms crossed as she maintained her confident strides towards the arena.
"There she is, folks! The Bejewelling Beata - the Princess of Gemlight - the dazzling and daring... GEEEEM LANCERRRRR!" cried the announcer.
From the opposite side, the Milalla, now fully equipped in his battle attire, gave off a faint shine as tiny lights danced around the cloth of his vest and skirt. Armed with naught but a pair of glowing Nyepels, he was intending to fight lance with fist.
"She will doubtless harry me from afar and above with her magicks. While my choice of discipline is not optimal against an opponent capable of flight, the Gemweave enhancements upon my gear should help weaken, if not outright nullify, some of her deadlier techniques. I will need to study and observe her closely, and force her into melee combat, where I will be able to strike past her defenses and wear her down," the North Wind said in his mind. He made his way out of the tunnel, meeting the cheers of the crowd - though not nearly as enthusiastic as that of his foe's.
"And the challenger: an underdog from beyond the barrier - the Monk that heralds a chilling tomorrow... THE NORRRRTH WIIIIIIND!"
Within the audience were the same four Milalla that were scavenging around Archeo Alexandria, all nodding to one another as they began to make calls on their linkpearls, engaging in hushed conversations - the details of which were easily drowned out by the roaring fans. At center stage, meanwhile, the Gem Lancer sized up her miniature opponent, taking note of his veiled appearance and seemingly unkempt attire, the faint glint irritating her eyesight somewhat.
"I can see why you'd hide your face so," she taunted: "such a garb made gaudy with shiny baubles will avail you little in this place! But I can tell you're the strong, silent type, so I'll give you that much. Still, you're rather brave or foolish standing before me unenhanced."
The North Wind simply brought his hands behind his back, staring down the Hyune from within his helmet. He did not seem to talk much, or was just laser-focused at the fight ahead. Whatever the case, she would toss her cloak in a dramatic fashion, people grasping at it wantonly as her regulator began to glow bright red. "Fine - don't try and defend yourself with words. Let your actions speak for you!"
"DIASPRO... GEMLIGHT!!" the audience cried as her entire form became enveloped in a cloud of orange sparkles. She would ascend into the air as her body began shimmering from her feet to her head; regular attire began to change form. As if completely swapping her color scheme, she now sported a dress out of an ivory bodice with a collar connected to it and a red skirt. Her maroon boots remained the same, only slightly longer, stopping just below the knees, and her puffy sleeves gave way to a red bracelet and hair piece. A pair of maroon wings with red tips formed on her back, and her transformation was culminated with a headband that was further decorated with jewels and feathers. With an outstretched hand she would gather a multitude of reddish-orange jewels that formed into her signature lance, grasping its shaft once it fully materialized before pointing it at her foe. The North Wind slowly placed his hands into his Nyepels - though not as flashy a response, he still got himself battle-ready as the bell sounded, officially commencing the start of the match.
Making the first move, the Gem Lancer raises her lance towards the ceiling, discharging a bright red light from its tip as she cried, "Gem Flash!" The Milalla would shield his eyes from the radiance, lowering his guard once it subsided - only to find that his foe had vanished! Ruling out that an invisibility spell was possible, the only obvious conclusion was that she sprung into the air in an attempt to confound him; he took this brief moment of calm to survey the battlefield for any immediate changes and noticed the outer edges of the ring surrounded by six clear crystals lying horizontally in the air - all of which began glowing a maroon color - possibly having absorbed the residual aether from her opening gambit.
Having deduced enough from his cursory glance, he would hop to his right, and about second later the center of the ring would be struck by a descending Gem Lancer, who sought to end things quickly with a dive. The North Wind would respond in kind with a wind-infused Shoulder Tackle, lightly damaging and forcing her back at least ten yalms before catching herself, her faerie wings beating rapidly to break her fall.
"Beautifully dodged AND countered! Looks like we have ourselves a battle!" the announcer commented. The Gem Lancer sighed, hiding her approval behind the disappointment that her opponent had his wits about him. Clearly she had counted on a quick end, but now it seemed she had to actually work for it. The North Wind, taking the offensive, charged at his recovering quarry, raising his right fist to strike. A straight jab to the ribcage would be in the Gem Lancer's immediate future, but regained her footing enough to avoid the assault with a frontwards flip, causing the Milalla monk's fist to connect with an invisible barrier. As the Bejewelling Beata landed once more on her feet, her foe would push off from said barrier, twisting around to deliver a downwards slam with his left fist; once more would the Gem Lancer avoid danger with a light hop into the air, leaving naught but another crack on the crystalline floor. The North Wind pressed the attack, jumping up to meet his opponent in midair before twirling to deliver a firm kick with his armored boot. In the nick of time, the Gem Lancer was able to erect a red barrier with an outstretched hand, but the defenses were meager at best given the short window, sustaining some damage as she was once again pushed back.
"The challenger's answered her opening move with his own flurry of attacks! But both combatants have barely begun to fight!"
The crowd's excitement ramped up as the initial exchange of attacks left everyone eager to see how the rest of the battle will unfold. With the measure of her foe now taken, it was time for the Gem Lancer to switch things up.
"Let's see if your vision is as good as your fists!" the Gem Lancer challenged, her voice echoing throughout the Glimmering. Swooping down through the center of the arena, the North Wind would duck out of harm's way as he turned around to notice the Hyune fighter had flown into one of the crystals; they would slowly raise right-side up, with the silhouette of the Gem Lancer made visible in the crystal with which she merged. The six crystals span rapidly counterclockwise, descending out of view for a brief moment before ascending once more, the reddened jewels now spread out evenly around the outer rim.
"Blink and you'll miss it, folks: here comes her Gemflare Dive! Let's see how the challenger fares!" the announcer stated. His gaze now shifting between any of the six crystals, the North Wind remembered the Gem Flash, and that these jewels would likely mimic that same ability. It was merely a matter of when. Facing northward, he relaxed his nerves and waited for a sign: the six jewels were still for now... but he would hear faint humming from behind him; the southeastern crystal was where she would attack.
With little warning, the Gem Lancer shot out from said crystal, lance pointed before her as she dashed across the center at high speeds. While the North Wind was able to successfully read the initial attack, the gem from where appeared his foe would begin shooting reddish beams into the air, showering the area in a rain of red lights. This runoff was unavoidable, however, so the North Wind shielded himself with his Nyepels as best he could to soften the blow. When the Gem Lancer resolved her dive, she entered the gem across from her whilst the previous one began to crack and splinter, until finally detonating into a flash of red light. Thankfully, the North Wind was not facing that direction, and the blinding effect would be nullified.
The process would repeat itself, with the remaining five gems spinning counterclockwise before spreading apart evenly around the field's outer rim. In the time between the next dive, the Milalla faced northward once more took to a defensive stance, releasing his chakra into aetheric patterns of concentric yellow rings; he braced himself for the impending laser rain with the Riddle of Earth.
A momentary pause... and another gem would resonate softly with energy to his immediate left. With a forward roll he would easily foresee the incoming dive, once more watching the Gem Lancer zoom by in a streak of maroon and ivory, followed by the harrying laser shower. Having sustained damage, Earth's Rumination was complete, and he would perform another series of gestures with his arms, answering with Earth's Reply to negate the minor injuries sustained from the initial two blasts.
As the Gem Lancer launched herself inside another gem, the North Wind turned to his right to avoid getting blinded by the exploding gem, and unleashed the chakra within his body to detonate a bluish blast of aether that would cause the two gems to the north and northeast to splinter as well, reducing the total to a meager two.
"The North Wind's not one to wait things out, it looks like! Clever!"
The announcer's commentary would be answered with applause as the two crystals would repeat the process one final time. As they would ascend from below, one gem stood along the east, and the other, on the west. It was at this time that the North Wind saw the glinting in his vest intensifying, having gathered sufficient ambient aether to be of use. With one final pause, he would anticipate the next dash... coming from the west.
With a knee-jerk reaction, he pointed his right fist towards the eastern gem, and several tiny beams of bluish light shot into the maroon crystal, turning it a deep violet. The Gem Lancer would emerge once more from the opposite end, heading straight for her opponent, who had but barely avoided the dive with a hop to the left. A loud thunk would ring as the Gem Lancer slammed into the amethyst crystal.
"OW...! What the -? How did you...?!" she said in astonishment, rubbing her head as she gazed upon her reflection. The Hyune would gasp lightly as the large jewel began to crack. Disregarding the exploding crystal from which she dove, this final one would shortly detonate as well, but it did not blind either combatant. Instead, it discharged a shockwave of purple aether akin to that of levin, sending both of them sliding across the floor; the two would break their fall, each dropping to a knee as the resulting blast immobilized them temporarily.
"Amazing! The challenger saw right through her Gemflare Dive, and even turned it against her! What other marvels await in this jewel-blessed bout?!"
The crowd roared once more with applause, urging the two fighters to continue. The blonde-haired Hyune grit her teeth through the paralysis, staring down her foe with a glare that belied both amazement and annoyance.
"So... it would appear that the rumors about you are true..." she grumbled. The North Wind did not waste his energy with a retort, and instead used this reprieve to allow his wounds to knit, feeling Earth's Reply wearing off. Once their paralysis would wear off, Diaspro would pick her lance up from the floor and call forth several oblong-shaped jewels of scarlet red, levitating above her head as she resumed with her sentiment, "but you are still unenhanced!" before charging towards the North Wind, her jewels now shooting red beams of energy to harry and distract him.
The Milalla was unfazed, having her right where he wanted her, and engaged in a melee skirmish with the Gem Lancer. As he had surmised from his previous briefing, her skills with the polearm were considerable, but her movements were telltale and easily readable; her swipes and thrusts would be deflected if not outright dodged, and though his own martial prowess easily overshadowed hers by leagues, her gift of flight helped tip the scales by quickly disengaging from any blows she could not otherwise avoid.
"A brawl of fist, lance, and magic! It's still anyone's game, with neither side letting up!"
The four Milalla were murmuring to themselves as the fight ensued, seemingly awestruck by how things have thus far transpired. Some moments into their discourse, one of the masked ones pointed back towards the action, noticing the North Wind was getting the upper hand, now leaping onto his foe with his strikes, but aiming for the jewels which provided fire support, shattering them to her chagrin.
With a strong punch to her midsection, the Gem Lancer would be pushed back towards the northern end of the arena. The anger welling within her was made apparent as she grumbled through grit teeth, dissipating her lance now and took to the skies once more, beyond the North Wind's reach. With arms outstretched, she called forth the jewels which floated around the Glimmering, those of matching colors forming together into large conglomerates - just an ilm or so shorter than a full-grown Milalla.
"Jasper... Garnet... Amethyst... Citrine! Emerge from gem-rest and bring me victory!" the Gem Lancer incanted, tracing geometric sigils along the jewels' surface with her finger.
"A bejeweled summoning! The Gem Lancer's calling in reinforcements!" The announcer's forewarning puzzled the Milalla monk, now intrigued by her... unusual methods of bringing forth aetherial constructs. He watched as he would now be surrounded by four large globes of light - one shooting forth from each crystal before landing upon an intercardinal quadrant. These intangible masses would soon take form into Carbuncles - slightly larger in size than the average familiar, and sporting bodies made entirely out of the gems from which they were born. The four larger gems, meanwhile, levitated idly before Diaspro, flanking her from either side.
The North Wind's gaze switched between the amethyst Carbuncle on his left, and the jasper one on his right. He remained still, trying to analyze this predicament before he found himself swarmed. All four maintained a mien of passivity as they stared down their Milalla adversary with their beady, onyx eyes. After making a calm step to the right, the crystalline quartet all took to a low stance, as if preparing to pounce. After a beat, their bodies would begin radiating their respective colors, giving the North Wind some unease. The Gem Lancer levitated calmly from her aerial vantage point, curious to see how her foe would fare this time.
"They're gathering aether from the surrounds..." the North Wind deduced in his mind. As before, the tiny latticed jewels within his battlegarb would glint - the counterattack was imminent. With his palms outstretched, he would focus his ire on the amethyst Carbuncle first - maybe due to a preference in color. Another array of bluish-white beams would fire upon the purple construct, shattering a thin defensive barrier before chipping away at its body. Soon, it would sustain too much damage to maintain its form, and dissipated into aether, transferring its gathered strength to the larger one which stood beside Diaspro.
"Hey! How are you doing that?!" she growled in annoyance, gathering another assortment of red jewels to assail him. "Stop that at once!" The North Wind kept his silent composure, taking note of the approaching rays as he rose his gauntlet in time to deflect them, sending the rays careening in all directions, with a few errant blasts striking the citrine Carbuncle to the southeast, leaving the garnet and jasper ones remaining. Seeing her attack fail once more, she seethed, tightening the grip on her weapon as the aether from the citrine Carbuncle would transfer over to the larger jewel.
With two more constructs remaining, the North Wind took to an offensive stance, a pinkish aetherial lotus blossoming several ilms above his helmed head. With a flourish, the lotus would disperse its beautiful petals, and enhance his blows - the Riddle of Fire has begun. With a graceful turn on the ball of his right heel, he focused his chakra as he wheeled around, punching the space before him with great force as a ball of icy flames would launch at the garnet Carbuncle. A delightful explosion of ice and fire would make quick work of the third construct, leaving the jasper one by its lonesome. He leapt into the air and rose his left leg, preparing to deliver a telling heel drop. Surprisingly, however, the jasper Carbuncle hopped to the side, avoiding a swift demise. The Milalla monastic, however, followed up with a radial sweep with his right leg, but the crystalline critter was light on its feet, hopping into the air to avoid the second strike. Clearly this particular gemstone was the Hyune's favorite to last this long. But despite these few extra seconds, its life would also prove ephemeral as the North Wind would drag his left fist along the floor, sparks forming along the spikes of the Nyepels before he brought it up in a sharp, explosive uppercut, unleashing The Forbidden Chakra on the airborne construct.
"No...!" gasped the Gem Lancer as the jasper one shattered before her eyes. With her quartet crushed, the aether they had gathered to the best of their abilities would be housed within their respective jewels. Now refocusing on her quarry, she waves her free hand as the four jewels began to glow brightly, looming over the North Wind as they surrounded him. "My friends have gathered enough aether to best you! Fall before my Gemlight Barrage!"
There was no getting out of this one, it seemed, as no other recourse remained for him but to weather the coming storm. With a deep inhale, the North Wind gathered himself, and as he exhaled, a cloud of cold air would permeate through his helmet, taking to another defensive stance, but unlike that of the Riddle of Earth. Instead, he spread his arms apart as spikes of aetherial ice took shape before him. Bringing his hands together with a robust clap of his gauntlets, the spikes would shatter, and tucking in his arms, the icicles formed mandala patterns around his very being, encasing him in what appeared to be a layer of frost.
"A never-before-seen technique from the challenger! But will it be enough to endure the Gemlight Barrage?!"
The audience watched with bated breath as they beheld the sight of the North Wind being battered relentlessly by her aetheric barrage. The Hyune combatant squinted her eyes as she tried to keep the North Wind in view, the deluge of beams obscuring him. This "Riddle of Ice" appeared to have been working with great effect, withstanding the brunt of the assault. Before too long, however, bits of ice would begin to chip and break, the shell of aetheric ice struggling to maintain itself. The Milalla within the crowds were especially concerned by how things would turn out as this appeared to be rather grim for the upstart.
With the last vestiges of their stored aether, each of the crystals would release a final, larger blast simultaneously, shattering the barrier of ice and moderately damaging the North Wind - his Hyune opponent giving a harrumph of approval, finally dealing a strong hit. A large cloud of smoke hid the North Wind from view, and the audience fell quiet, assuming the worst for the underdog.
"Is... Is it over already?!" asked the announcer, his clarion voice booming throughout the stadium. After a long series of beats, a bluish glow could barely be made out from inside the cloud. The Gem Lancer arched a brow, leaning forward slightly to ensure it wasn't just a trick of the light. The cloud would pulse a second time with that same bluish light, before she would behold a large snowflake headed straight for her!
She parted her lips with a gasp as she veered to the right, the icy projectile just glancing the left side of her head before detonating in a dazzling display of ice and snow. The cloud would be dispersed with a chilling breeze created from the North Wind's namesake: Ice's Reply. Though there were signs of visible damage on his gear, he was still standing.
The Glimmering would once again be filled with cheers and applause, the audience displaying their collective relief that the North Wind was still lucid. "A spectacular defensive gambit by the North Wind! He endured the endless fusillade, and even answered the Gem Lancer with a glancing yet firm rebuttal!"
With her still reeling, it was finally time for the North Wind to go on the offensive. Leaping diagonally upwards towards the Gem Lancer, he would charge for a fierce flurry, frozen aether gathering in his fist. In a surprising twist, however, a haze of purplish lines and sigils appeared between him and his quarry, and in a violet flash of light, he would bump into an outrunner - one of the mechanical constructs produced in Alexandria. It teleported into the fray, colliding with the North Wind's helmet with a clunk, and rebounding him back down to earth.
"HOLD!" the outrunner succinctly commanded with its adorable glove-like palms outstretched, the screen representing its face turning red with an expression resembling that of an agape mouth, as though shocked or surprised. The cheering quickly dissipated as everyone in the vicinity now stood silent, the referee now making its way towards the arena.
"There's been a call for a hold by the referee! What could this mean?!"
After softening his landing with an ukemi as he touched the floor, the Milalla monk silently watched the referee float past him from his knelt state, towards the southern edge of the arena. The Gem Lancer, recovering from his gelid attack with a hand on her head, opened an eye to view what was going on... only to gasp in terror at the revelation. Her fair-skinned features dimmed and her lips quivered; the Milalla quartet within the audience took note of her sudden pangs of dread, and huddled together, expecting a most shocking turn of events.
One of the numerous cameras within the arena would zoom in on the referee grabbing something off the floor, and as it turned around slowly, it unfurled its gloved hand to reveal it...
"Source detected: this regulator was destroyed, but combatant Gem Lancer retains her enhanced form! Awaiting this battle's judgment!"
The outrunner's screen would turn blue as it would now cycle through an ellipsis; the audience gasped, exchanging glares and whispers galore, utterly baffled by what they're seeing right now. As for the Milalla, their expressions were also of astonishment, but kept their eyes glued on the Gem Lancer. As for her opponent, his eyes went half-lidded beneath his helmet, turning his gaze from the shattered regulator, to the deliberating referee-bot, and then his quarry, who still flew high above the crowd.
When the Gem Lancer saw the revealed regulator, her heart skipped a beat. It was a vain hope that someone else's just somehow got shot off amidst the duel, but it would be all too plain to see when she removed her hand from the left side of her head where she had but previously endured the glacial blast.
"That regulator... Could it be the Gem Lancer's?! But if so, she would have been knocked out of her enhanced state!" the announcer blurted out. "The referee is now deciding on whether the match should continue, but what does the audience think?!"
"Let them fight, obviously," one of the masked Milalla - specifically the emerald-masked one - immediately answered aloud with a raised voice. "The Gem Lancer's a whole different breed of fighter if she didn't need the regulator to enhance herself to begin with." After a moment's pause, several onlookers began to nod in agreement with the diminutive damsel's sentiment, and a moment later they would raise their voices, clapping their hands and chanting: "Let them fight! Let them fight! Let them fight!"
The uproar would continue as the referee would resume its deliberations, but the Gem Lancer, still dumbfounded by this unlikely turn of events, could only feel herself welling up with anger, having her secret be exposed. Before too long into the chanting, the referee would arouse from its stupor, the entire Glimmering flashing a bright green as it waved its hands energetically, unintentionally tossing the device off into the scintillating abyss.
"The Gem Lancer maintains her enhanced form, and is deemed able to continue fighting. The North Wind has not been disqualified as a result on counts of foul play! Resume the match!"
The bell would sound once more, declaring the battle's continuation as the referee would fly out of view.
"WE'RE STILL IN IT, FOLKS! The Gem Lancer, despite no longer with her regulator, has maintained control over her feral soul! This is the caliber of warrior you can only find in the upper tiers of the Arcadion! But now we approach the climax! Will our upstart claim victory, or will the Bejewelling Beata give the North Wind a crash course on cruiserweight-tier battlers?!"
The announcer was chewing the scenery for all its worth now, with the audience cheering once more with renewed gusto. The North Wind gave a slight sigh of relief, supposedly thankful he did not lose on a technicality. But his patting of the back would be cut short as the area began to glow - from the numerous jewels to the very arena floor upon which he stood - and raised his head towards the source...
"You think to outshine me? The brightest jewel here - in her own home turf?!" a rather perturbed Gem Lancer exclaimed, her left hand conjuring a whitish-blue orb, whilst twelve larger cylindrical gems - no doubt one for each moon in a cycle - floated along the arena's edge, spreading out equidistantly in a manner not unlike her Gemflare dive startup. "You've gotten lucky this far, withstanding two of my special maneuvers, but THIS ONE's going to leave you dazzled and down for the count! Take this, 'Northern Upstart'!"
As she reared back her left hand, all but one of the four Milalla gasped as the realization just dawned upon them, with the blue behatted one merely bearing an intrigued countenance.
"Wait, is that--?" uttered the aqua blue-masked lass. When the Gem Lancer tossed the orb towards the North Wind, he knew there was no retreat, so the only other recourse was to face the danger head-on. Gathering the residual ice-aspected aether left behind by his previous counterattack, he would attempt to stop the projectile dead with a straight punch, only for the orb to splinter off into numerous smaller simulacra, surrounding him from all sides before materializing into a transparent crystal-like formation. Thus immobilized, the Gem Lancer called forth her jasper javelin, appearing in her right hand as she then began to fly clockwise along the edges of the arena, while also leaving behind a wake of faerie dust and driving her lance through each of the twelve crystals, shattering them and leaving behind a cloud of its aetherial signature. "It's the Moonstone prison! Look at that familiar sheen of white and blue!" the aqua blue Milalla confirmed.
"Worry you not, madam," the debonair Milalla reassured with a smile, "for I am certain the North Wind has a response for it."
"Ohoho! You know what this means, everyone! This could be the deciding finish! Get ready for the windup...!" the announcer blared out, heralding what may as well be the Gem Lancer's ace-in-the-hole. Once the Hyune would complete her lap around the Glimmering, she zoomed toward the far northern reaches of the arena, high above the crowd as she raised her weapon skyward, and the duodecim of crystalline remnants would be absorbed into her weapon, whilst a multitude of multicolored rings began forming a tunnel starting from her and ending just fulms away from the North Wind.
Her opponent seemed a goner, punching against this barrier of white and blue; though he had begun to make a few cracks here and there, it would not break in time for him to mount a proper defense against the Gem Lancer.
However... his battlegarb would, for a third time, begin to sparkle all over his body - this reaction was no doubt a result of the Gem Lancer's enraged state influencing the battleground, and empowered not only herself, but his latticed gear as well. The North Wind sheathed his Nyepels, gathered his chakra, and would turn the bluish lights a red-orange, altering its properties before thrusting his arms laterally, sending an omnidirectional blast of lasers that would pierce through the moonstone prison like a hot knife through butter, and ultimately freeing him from his predicament.
As the crowd's excitement reached a fever pitch, the diminutive duelist now stared down the kaleidoscopic conundrum that was the Gem Lancer's flashy, ultimate attack. Again, retreat was no option, and defending against a strike of this caliber would only spell his defeat. There was only one other alternative...
With a gentle exhale, he lowered his head and brought his right fist into his left palm. In his mind the area around him quieted to a low muffle as his chakra was being expelled into a small aura around him, a bluish-white flame against the multicolored radiance of the Gem Lancer. He seemed to have been... meditating? Ascending? Finding inner peace even in what may be his final moments?
Meanwhile, the polearm within the Hyune's hands had gathered all the aether it could, turning into a rainbow spear that vacillated ceaselessly with the borrowed strength of the other crystals.
"EVERYBODY!" the Gem Lancer shouted with a commanding tone, "WHAT IS A GIRL'S BEST FRIEND?!"
"G! E! M! S!" the crowd chanted.
"THE POWER OF...!"
"GEMS!"
After that brief call-and-response, she hurled her lance through the tunnel of rings, drawing closer and closer as everyone was practically jumping out of their seats to witness the inevitable impact. The North Wind, even with his visage obscured, remained the picture of calm, and when the lance would pass through the final ring...
... He pivoted on his right foot, turning ninety degrees to the left. This allowed the lance to miss him by mere ilms, but he would also reach out his right hand to catch the weapon mid-flight before it would touch the floor. The momentum of the weapon would cause the North Wind to spin at impossible speeds - so fast, even, that he had begun to levitate several fulms off the floor, which resulted in a rather impressive spectacle of a rainbow trail forming into a small pillar.
When he would eventually decelerate, he faced the Gem Lancer, her own weapon now being raised against her. And with his first utterance since this battle even began, the North Wind would give an addendum to Diaspro's claim:
"Actually... it's Diamonds."
... before returning the javelin to sender. Utterly dumbfounded for the third and final time, the Gem Lancer stood there in shock, only having enough time to bring her arms before her face in a vain attempt to shield herself. The lance would find its mark, and detonate into a fantastic display of multicolored stars and sparkles, with the North Wind touching back down with his back turned to the explosion.
The referee floated down toward the Gem Lancer's body once the gem dust settled, inspecting it from multiple angles for any signs of activity. After a brief moment, it would throw its gloved arms up and declare: "K.O.!"
"THE MATCH... IS DECIDED! VICTORY GOES TO THE NORTH WIND!"
The Milalla quartet heaved a collective sigh of relief, with the audience going ballistic over the bout they had all witnessed - fireworks and confetti had erupted all over the gem-speckled stadium, celebrating the conclusion of this brilliant duel. The North Wind, prior to taking his leave of the arena, would give gentle waves and flowing bows to the stands, returning the admiration in kind...
This concludes the main portion of this story. If you wish to read further for the denouement and big reveal, you are welcome to press on by clicking the "keep reading" line below!
With the battle thus concluded, the Milalla monk dusted himself off and began his slow trek down his respective entrance tunnel. Whilst his opponent was barely coming to, she could make out the diminishing visage of the Milalla, a dogged determination in her citron amber orbs to as his silhouette faded from view...
Soon he would exit the Arcadion proper after being congratulated by Howlita, who was standing by in the lobby and tended to any hurts he sustained prior to taking her leave. Now back in True Vue, he would be met with a venerable ovation from a large crowd of Alexandrians flanking the stairs which led to the plaza. He would acquiesce to some of his newfound fans' requests to take pictures with this rising star from beyond the barrier, and even struck a few poses for the crowd.
"Haha! That was an astounding spectacle!" the Hyune male said to his female Eldite accomplice. "Who'd have guessed the Gem Lancer possesses such power even without the regulators?!"
"I hope this gets published into the Cruiserweight's edition of AAC Illustrated!" she replied giddily.
Getting away from that section of Solution Nine about a half-bell's worth of time later, the masked monk relaxed at the Residential Sector, enjoying the pristine emerald grasses within the park as he reclined upon a bench. During this time he brought a finger to his ear, and a series of short chimes would sound...
"Listen closely," he said in a low tone, "the final part of this phase is about to commence. I will be keeping this channel open for the next few minutes. I ask that all listening find a place with minimal ambient noise and to remain silent until the discourse has come to a close."
A brief moment later, his solitude would be conveniently cut short as Diaspro would emerge in the distance, back in her normal, resplendent garb. Scanning the area, she would immediately single out the relaxing Milalla and ran his way.
"YOU! I demand to know who you are, stranger!" she demanded. The woman would only be met with silence, but only briefly, as the Milalla jumped from off his bench to face her.
"May we use a room first? I feel there is much for us to discuss, and privacy is recommended."
Diaspro looked at him quizzically, but did not deny the logic behind his response. With a reluctant nod she would lead him into the large apartment complex, where they would ascend the higher tiers of the electrope structure until they would arrive in what could only be Diaspro's private chambers - a gem-speckled domicile with an atmosphere not unlike that of the very Glimmering in which she just fought. The main distinction was that the decor had more faerie-like aesthetics, with silhouettes of the winged mischief makers lining the walls, and by her neat and well-kept (and jasper-lined) bed was the portrait of a fair-skinned Milalla with blonde hair, blue eyes, and wore the effects befitting that of a Nymian Scholar.
"You will have to forgive me for this..." the Milalla spoke once more as Diaspro shut and secured the door behind them. He would slowly remove his helmet, and the revelation absolutely shocked the Hyune so that she staggered, nearly losing her balance and falling on her rear.
"Th-Thiji...?! But..." she gasped. The very person she fought was none other than the Diamond Sultan himself - the same Diamond Sultan she had imprisoned and held hostage for the better part of a moon. "I've never met one capable of escaping my gemstone prisons! I should've known as much when you were able to do so during our battle... which means you've won free not once, but twice!"
"Indeed," Thiji responded, "but I hold no ill will towards you, so do not feel so alarmed as to call security. If you are wondering how I was able to break free - which I am certain you are - it is due to the very motivation behind your arresting of me: I have many allies, both near and far; within the barrier and beyond it. Much like how aetherial signatures can be countered with the proper opposition, so too can gemstones, which house their own unique signature. The prison in which you encased me was made of Moonstone - a whitish-blush opaque crystal. One of my Angels - who also happens to be my sister-in-law - has learned the ways of Arcanima enough to summon a Carbuncle of an appropriate jewel needed to weaken and nullify the prison - in which case would be Sunstone. Of course, other jewels are capable of achieving this result, but Sunstone was the best candidate for this purpose."
The explanation absolutely astounded Diaspro. It was no small wonder that he was able to fulfill all those feats of martial and magical prowess during their duel. But she also could not help but feel relieved knowing that she would not be met with a fierce retribution that may have culminated with her sudden... disappearance.
Slowly pacing the floor towards her nightstand, she would gaze upon the portrait of the scholar for a brief moment before turning to face Thiji.
"I suppose I should've known better than to challenge the mind of one such as you," she commented. "I've only begun to hear about your deeds, and I must express how intrigued I am to know more about you... But I know you're more interested in learning of me."
Thiji could only nod curtly as he made himself comfortable on her sofa, placing his helmet on the table before him whilst Diaspro took the framed portrait in her hands and planted herself on the side of her bed. Unbeknownst to her, four individuals stood guard some yalms away from the door outside her room - the same Milalla warband which rescued Thiji who were, in fact, his Angels: Veeveena, Veeveera, Veeveeja, and Umimi, specifically. With their own linkpearl transmissions cut off, they ensured that no one would interfere with the discourse between Thiji and Diaspro as she began to disclose the truth to the Diamond Sultan...
"As you may have guessed by what you have seen thus far, I am not really from Alexandria. And based on your prior knowledge of Arcanima, you are doubtless aware of the Age of Enlightenment - better known as the Fifth Astral Era. More importantly, this was the point in history that the War of the Magi began to unfold. In the years leading up to that great conflict, the Milalla - no - Lalafell who ventured out from the South Sea Isles would form the maritime city-state of Nym off the shores of western Vylbrand. One of those Lalafell was a man by the name of Skyon Klyon - a man possessing great intellect and compassion. His colleagues referred to him as 'Sky', but because he was also quite proficient with the axe and blade."
Thiji already had a hunch as to what this woman truly was, but he respectfully maintained silence so that she would divulge the entire truth for him (and his eavesdropping Angels).
"Nymian scholars bind and bond with faeries to assist in their stratagems, and Skyon was of no exception. But he saw something different in this one; she was always fascinated by the glimmer and glow of gems, as it was among the first thing she beheld when she was first summoned into the corporeal realm. He understood that faeries were more than mere constructs borne from aether - they are sentient beings, capable of thought and emotion, and it is because of this that the bond they shared was different from most. He made a study out of gemstones and taught this faerie all he knew about them: how they were formed; their unique aetherial signatures; how each brought their own beauty and contribution to the world, and even the very concepts they symbolize and embody. He took note of her heavier affection towards red and orange stones, and gave this faerie a name..."
"Diaspro."
Thiji softly spoke the name, to which the Hyune could only nod in acceptance. "How convenient, then, that most native Alexandrians tend to be named after minerals or gemstones, allowing you - a Faerie - to in perfectly. But you have divulge enough, and you are forgiven for your deeds-"
"Oh, no - I appreciate your clemency, but after what I've put you through, you deserve the whole story," she interrupted, rising from her seat to face Thiji after placing the portrait of Skyon back down on the nightstand. She then paced towards the glass windows which gave a wonderful view of the entirety of Solution Nine, watching the many vehicles fly by... "That is all common knowledge, though, and I am getting too far ahead of myself. I was actually first summoned during the time of the Fourth Astral Era, before the Age of Endless Frost took the realm by icy storm. Sky was among the first settlers on an island known as Aloalo to escape the Fifth Umbral Calamity and reach this plane, taking his knowledge with him. He did not go off to fight in the War of the Magi. Instead, he would serve in the Alexandrian military, putting his arcane and martial knowledge to good use, which earned him the battlefield title of 'The Specialist'. Being a faerie, I was a peculiar sight in this realm, but a unique one, and with my aid, we fought and won no small number of battles... but then the Storm Surge happened."
"Aloalo Island is a venerable trove of history, with no small number of means to experiment with Arcanima," Thiji interjected, which impressed Diaspro.
"You know of Aloalo, too?" she asked as she turned her head.
"I lent aid to an expedition there not too long ago with two others: a Conjurer of Stillglade Fane, and a... Light-infused Miqo'te, we'll call her, and have learned much during that time - about the origins of my own people, and of the very arcane gifts we shared with the rest of the world. But I will see about putting the remaining pieces together myself: this calamity of lightning occurred, and Skyon met an untimely demise - most likely due to the erratic storms, or valiantly defending the Alexandrians you've come to cherish."
The Hyune faerie nodded sagely, confirming Thiji's statement to be correct. He would then continue: "Normally a familiar's corporeal holdings rely on the aether of their master in order to persist, and when cut off, they would inevitably dissipate when that source is removed. But my findings in Aloalo have proven that even this can be prevented. Due to the incredible life and vitality that Aloalo Island still breathes into its environs from an ancient jewel, a faerie who now calls that place home has persisted long without the presence of their master - whomever they may be. That selfsame jewel was no doubt the reason said faerie continues to exist in the material realm - but how was it that you maintained your physical form? Was it through electrope?"
"Yes," Diaspro answered firmly, "and thanks to the Lalafell - or Milalla as they were then called upon inhabiting this dimension - introducing arcanima to the world, they were able to inscribe the runes upon the ore that granted its ability to convert lightning-aspected aether into other elements. When Skyon perished, I remained, recovering whatever I could with my tiny form and magicks and sought shelter. Over the years, I persisted on the electrope that became ubiquitous after the calamity, as it helped me maintain my physical form. During this time I would pore through the tomes left behind by Sky, learning all that he knew of arcanima, while also gathering any gemstones I could find so as to pique my fascination. I also honed my own skills in secret, gaining mastery over jewelry manipulation and gemcraft. With Everkeep's construction, I no longer had any cause for worry in regards to me losing my corporeal state, but I also needed to blend in with the other Alexandrians; I assumed a Hyune form as my own aetherial signature grew enough to support one, and adopted a regulator, but I never truly needed it, nor have I made use of it. My skills in glamours made it look as though I was using a feral soul to assume a new form when I fight in the Arcadion."
She paused, reaching into her robe pocket to reveal a soul crystal, etched in the familiar shape of a Scholar's, but lacking the symbol.
"Along with the grimoires I saved, this soul crystal is all that remains of him. It's how I was able to retain all the knowledge I've gained and even add my own experiences to it. I sensed a familiar presence when you came here for the first time, and thought it too good to be true that Sky had miraculously returned."
"That makes sense," Thiji replied with a cant of his head, "and given that faeries preceded Carbuncles, and succeeded the quaqua, you were eventually capable of creating your own familiars, combining the arcanima you've learned with your mastery of gems."
"Right again. And thus did I christen myself a 'Gemlight Faerie', and became the Gem Lancer as well as the Princess of Gemstones. I lived quite well among the Alexandrians, using my know-how of crystalline gleam to become a fashionista in my own right... Though the secret is out now, and I no longer need to keep up the facade. Everyone seems even more excited knowing that I've been relying on my own strength instead of borrowing power from feral souls; I never really condoned the use of them, anyway - thanks a lot, 'King' Zoraal Ja..."
Thiji would chuckle at the not-so-subtle jab to the late King of Resolve were he able, but now that the truth was revealed to him, he would consider his task complete. Hopping off the couch, he approached Diaspro with dignified strides, his hands behind his back whilst she pocketed the soul crystal once more.
"How would you consider serving under the Higuri Regalia, then?" he offered, to which only Diaspro could gasp in response. "Your knowledge of gems is unparalleled, and as a Faerie, you possess wisdom spanning many winters, especially after being stranded in Alexandria for so long; you would prove an invaluable asset to our efforts. Through us, you will become a Queen of Gemstones."
This proposition intrigued Diaspro greatly. The prospect of having a life outside the barrier was very enticing, and to see how much the Source has changed was also of considerable interest - to see Eorzea and beyond, and to interact with its various spoken societies. Now, after decades of living and learning in Alexandria, she would finally have that chance. Thus she gave her answer:
"Make no mistake... Your Eminence - I still have a duty to fulfill in Alexandria, especially now that my true self is revealed, and people will doubtless want to know more about me with enlivened interest. But I would not properly honor my former master's legacy remaining inside this dome - let alone Everkeep - for the rest of my days, and to be honest... this place could use a bit more pizazz. Your Regalia would be the perfect answer to that; our meeting was very auspicious, it seems!"
Concluding her affirmation with a curtsey, Diaspro would thus swear her allegiance to Thiji Higuri and the Higuri Regalia; the Diamond Sultan would nod in response before he would slowly make for the door, but would be stopped by Diaspro once more.
"If I may make a request?" she said with hand outstretched.
"Of course you can model for us, Miss Diaspro, and your request to contribute to my upcoming clothing line is accepted," he replied. Diaspro was dumbfounded, a stunned countenance made apparent on her features.
"You... can read minds?"
"No," he responded, "I've just been in this line of work for so long that I've gained a profound intuition on haute couture, and those looking to make their mark upon it. We both can agree that Alexandria will be looking forward to a shock in culture when they begin venturing beyond Yyasulani en masse, but even more so will they be astounded by the aesthetics of the various locales and peoples of this realm. I have learned much and more during my time spent on this continent, this New World, and witnessing its history through sight, sound, and word of mouth has opened my own eyes, in a sense. Every single person contributed to the greater picture that is now Tuliyollal, and even Alexandria was welcoming to the native races' own ways of life when the fusion occurred."
He would pause, turning his body to meet Diaspro's gaze.
"Tural. This is the breakthrough I sought. Not just Tuliyollal and Alexandria, but the continent as a whole, with its rich history and aesthetics - now blessed by the unexpected arrival of the peoples from another reflection."
"I like it! And I will ensure you that my own contribution will be worthy of your Catalogue," Diaspro declared with a bow. "My gemlight designs will wow natives and foreigners alike! But... this Queen-to-be requires rest, as this day has been eventful, thanks to you and yours!"
"On that I've no doubt," Thiji stated. "You will be granted your rest, and I again apologize for the measures taken to undermine you. We are pleased to have you with us, Miss Diaspro, and we will ensure you do not regret this decision."
Diaspro would finally be left to her own devices as the Diamond Sultan vacated the room, now greeted further by his mother and father, who voiced their eagerness to return home after being within these levin-inundated lands for so long. With the operation thus completed, the Higuri Regalia would begin making the necessary preparations to cross the salt, now enlightened by the experiences gained from their extended stay within Tural.
Perhaps in time, the Higuri Regalia may even have a branch in the New World. But that, like everything else, will be decided by the Spinner's own hand...
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