Mission 001: Explore the Ruins

[silversoldier]

♥ Who: Sephiroth and YOU
♥ Where: The Arena or The Factory
♥ When: September 10
♥ What: Help Sephiroth explore the arena or become his partner in crime in welding class.
♥ Rating: PG?

The Arena

Sephiroth learned much from reading Verstael’s collection and related information Sephiroth garnered from other sources regarding the expansion that occurred in the month of Lasai, but there was no substitute for investigating things first hand. SOLDIERS were made for fieldwork, and he especially so.

It did not take him long to find the line of demarcation. Although there had clearly been new growth, one could not so easily hide centuries of neglect.

Sephiroth spent the greater part of the morning exploring once abandoned buildings for any of the hostile fauna he had read about. Whether these creatures sensed the mako in his blood, as he’d found was sometimes the case, or there simply weren’t any around he could not say. Sephiroth did note several odd looking plants he thought to look up later, but other than that was beginning to feel it was a day better spent elsewhere.

That was until he came across a structure that had to be the arena he’d been told about. It was nothing like the ones found in Midgar or even elsewhere on the continent. And yet Sephiroth could feel it in the air. A certain vibration. Energy, perhaps, which never really left a place. Was it left behind by the crowds? Or those fighting for, most likely, sport?

Either way, Sephiroth had found a good potential training spot. But that would be for another time. Today, he was all about exploration.

Sephiroth stepped through an archway and surveyed the scene before him. He headed toward an archway filled with rubble and began to clear it, tossing large rocks aside with the ease of a SOLDIER.

Sephiroth only stopped when he sensed the presence approaching.

Bonus Alternate Edition: The Factory Tour

Find Sephiroth staring with interest at the equipment and become his partner? After his brief experience with welding and subsequent research, he’s decided to completely dominate this too this might a worthwhile thing to learn.

Special Effect: Feel free to apply the “just like glue” effect to either prompt it could be hilarious you never know.

[ Brackets are always fine too <3 ]

Comments

Factory

[original_is_best]

Though Verstael took time to explore the city often enough, he could mostly be found in one of four locations - the Information Center, his home, Affurgato and the factory. So it was no great stroke of luck that Sephiroth happened to find him in the factory. He had taken the class allowed to him and wanted to learn more. Unfortunately, whether it was lack of resources or something else, the natives didn't seem to keen on giving 'extras' to any particular native, much to his frustration. It should have been obvious that they should prioritize him, someone who knew what he was doing and had a lot of work to do, over people who were hobbyists at best.

So when Sephiroth ran into him he caught the tail-end of another of his insistent disputes, emphasizing the importance of his work and the need for him to use the equipment with a native that seemed unable to help at best. He shot an irate glare at the less-than-useful native. He was a research chief, being treated as a mere student was unacceptable. While he maintained an even tone, the underlying resentment was unmistakable. When he didn't seem to be getting anywhere he spun on his heel to leave, and that was when he noticed the rather recognizable soldier.

Irritation drained from his face and he slowed none as he approached Sephiroth.

"I had not expected to see you here."

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth's opinion of Verstael had risen since they last spoke. It was chiefly due to the quality and nature of the information Sephiroth found in his library. However, Sephiroth also had time for further reflection and decided that there were notable differences between this man and the very many Sephiroth knew who claimed the same appellation. Then there was the nature of his goal and the fact it aligned perfectly with what Sephiroth had in mind.

Sephiroth was still wary and would continue to be so, especially regarding anything to do with SOLDIER, but decided it would not hurt to more effectively pursue their joint objective. He had come here today with that goal in mind as well as that of exploring the area.

What he found instead was Verstael having some kind of argument with one of the natives.

"Interesting. You are the one who first informed me of this place. Do you not recall?" While it was true they had not really spoken since that time, Sephiroth did not doubt Verstael's memory. He gestured toward where two robotic eyes were still very fixed on him. "What seems to be the problem?"

[original_is_best]

"I recall. I simply was not aware you would be coming here."

At least not necessarily at the same time as him. Perhaps it was fortunate timing, though. Verstael glanced over his shoulder slightly, a hint of frustration returning, but much less so now.

"I have worked tirelessly repairing and cleaning this factory and it's operations are of utmost importance for my work. However, they have only allowed for me to take a single class on smelting. That is hardly sufficient. If they are to part one from their lab they should at least have the courtesy of making reparations for the loss, but I continuously have to fight to make any progress."

Back home he had subordinates who were much better at listening to him.

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth watched Verstael with one slightly raised brow. He could understand troubles like these, having experienced similar himself. They were usually the result of Heidegger's incompetence but occasionally one of the other executives lent their lack of expertise. "I agree, they should reward your efforts somehow. Shall I try to sign up? It is what I initially came to do, after all."

Something told him diplomacy wouldn't be easy here when so-called deity was very clearly at work. It almost made him want to try force, but then, he already knew with a measure of certainty that that too would prove fruitless. Instead, he considered another possibility.

Sephiroth trailed one finger along a nearby piece of equipment before letting his hand fall to his side once more. "Then again, perhaps another method would suffice. What are you hoping to accomplish?"

[original_is_best]

"Currently I have made progress by employing the efforts of a fire-breathing dog, in essence. While Arche's contributions have been invaluable, naturally it is imprecise. It is enough inexact work, but not enough for work that requires meticulous specifications. I wish to make use of the facilities here to continue progressing my work in a more efficient and accurate manner. That requires more than just smelting, of course."

But the natives wouldn't take the time to cater to him alone. His gaze turned from Sephiroth to the equipment. "If you have not taken any class then you may have more luck. They seem more interest in general pacification of the populace than giving comprehensive guidance to any one person."

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth nodded as Verstael confirmed his suspicions. He had mentioned Arche and Arche's invaluable yet imprecise work before regarding his ongoing projects. Now that it was clear exactly what he was referencing, Sephiroth could move forward with his idea.

"I thought so," he said, with a small smile. "In that case, I may just be able to assist you myself. No need for these frustrations." It would be a logical use of his power and a very satisfying way to put a perceived inefficiency to rest. Unlike at ShinRa where such excesses and obstacles were par for the course, here he could actually do something about one of them.

It was...satisfying.

"I can cast several different fire spells of varying strength. Would that work in lighting your forge?" Sephiroth didn't mention matters like stamina or magic reserves as they were of little concern to him. He also didn't bring up classes again. Instead, he made a mental note to return later and inquire about them.

[original_is_best]

That gave him some pause as he looked at Sephiroth curiously. Yes, he would like to see that fire. But no, that wasn't how the forges here worked exactly. The dilemma of a century.

"I would be greatly interested in seeing your fire. However, these forges operate on power generated from physical touch." Would lighting them another way damage them? Possibly. It would be hard to know, and wasn't a risk he intended to take after just gaining access to the equipment in the factory.

Arena

[shroudedsecrets]

It was not often that Honerva's explorations brought her to this side of the city, cautious as she is to know better than to explore unaccompanied, but sensible enough to let her family know she'd be poking around. In this case, dressed for such exploring in well fitted shimmering sky blue tunic and leggings, she is accompanied by a small floating scouting bot, her own way of monitoring data.

Such an area was of less priority than the factory, but any aspects of the city might have something worth looking into, that might be easily overlooked. Even so, difficult for her attention not to be drawn by the signs of life in the arena, sounds of movements that were not the footsteps of the robot citizens that might have been at work, but the softer footfalls that might herald another otherworlder.

There does seem to be a presence, here, as eventually one of the archways leads toward an area where the light just... catches upon a familiar sheen of hair...

... But of course, the effect is gone but moments later. He might have stopped moving but she keeps her distance out of habit. However, the small bot continues to roam and map the surroundings, emitting low enough noises that might yet catch attention.

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth turned slightly at the sound of the robotic beeps and noises he thought he escaped when leaving the more established areas. He caught sight of the thing a moment later and noted that it looked different from the natives. This gave him enough indication that something was amiss that he turned to where it had come from and if there were others.

The first thing Sephiroth noticed was her hair. It wasn't quite the same shade nor did she have the same volume--at least from this distance--but the similarity was there, and that in itself was striking for its rarity as she, like him, didn't not appear to be of age for it.

A moment later Sephiroth realized he was staring and though he would have been content to turn around and resume what he was doing, he understood she was probably here for the same reason. It would, therefore, only make sense to cooperate.

"Would you care to join me in exploring?" It wasn't a standard greeting, but in Sephiroth's mind it sufficed. He picked up another of the stones and tossed it to the side without waiting for an immediate answer.

[shroudedsecrets]

Some volume was there, which he'd might get a better sense for once they were closer; when exploring she's had more of a habit of concealing most of it, with a significant portion usually pulled back or tucked away.

His invitation is unexpected, but all the better that it helps to distract her from any potential foray into unproductive thought.

"Greetings," She says, offering a more standard one even if he led in with an invitation; she was certainly used to those who preferred to get right to the point. "Very well. It would be beneficial for us to work together instead of unintentionally circling one another."

She makes her way toward him to get a better glimpse of his efforts; her voice is soft, and even-toned but it carries.

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth paused in his work once more to acknowledge the greeting with a nod. He took the time to study her robot as it passed.

"I assume you're referring to your companion." He said, his tone slightly dry. "What purpose does it serve?" The basic function was beyond obvious. Sephiroth was hoping for an explanation of anything beyond that, whatever would be useful in helping them both explore the area below.

It was different doing this without a bevy of resources at his beck and call. Somewhat stimulating in a way, and inconvenient in another. The thought that it might be of some assistance was a good one.

[shroudedsecrets]

Regardless of the tone he takes, Honerva's remains even, as she closes the gap between them.

"It records and assimilates data, measures distances and scans for presence. An Explorer, in other words."

Not all of the functions, but more than enough explanation for someone unfamiliar. Most people tended to be.

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth was silent for a moment as he considered this and the fact it already seemed to have taken some scans of the area. "A very useful tool," he said, finally. He generally held a healthy suspicion of any new robotics, but that was a leftover from back home. There was no Scarlet here for him to worry about and thus no malfunctioning, rampaging robots for him to put down around every corner.

Sephiroth's gaze travelled from the robot to the blocked staircase. "Have you learned anything of value about this place yet?"

arena | sry for brackets i am Lazy That Way

[carbungle]

[He'll find one corner of the large arena occupied upon arrival, though he might spy signs well before any person comes into view. Noctis is warping from pillar to pillar, then down to a section of the audience stands, then back up again, leaving a series of brief, transparent blue outlines of himself in his wake. He'll be working through a few rounds of the short-range teleports before taking a break and climbing up on one of the half-broken pillars, legs dangling over the side.

He doesn't catch Sephiroth's arrival.]

Just excited to see you thar, Nocto~

[silversoldier]

[ Sephiroth is just about to pass through the archway when he feels the tingle of something very familiar in the air. True divinity. Nothing like whatever is being peddled in this place. He almost checks his bracer for his summons before remembering. Then it happens again. Sephiroth's head snaps to the side and he sees something very interesting.

He hadn't planned on this, but after the residual shock at what he's witnessing fades, Sephiroth thinks he may have found exactly what he needs.

He moves, fast. All that legendary speed and he comes to a stop nearby. Then suddenly he's right behind Noctis. It's a test, and one he thinks Noctis will pass. ]

[carbungle]

[And here he was just trying to enjoy a little breather. He was about to call a water bottle from the Armiger and have a drink, but right before he has the chance to do so, he feels someone - or something - at his back, the hairs on his neck prickling at subtle, alien magic in the air. Instinct kicks in, and without wasting a moment to turn and look he kicks forward and drops off the pillar, shifting into a warp towards the next one over. His sword sinks deep into the stone and he hangs from it, twisting around to brace his feet on the surface of it and look back towards where he'd started.

...What.]

Who the hell are you?

[The white hair and pale uniform throws him off at first glance, but no, it's not Ravus. How did he even get up there, and without Noctis noticing?]

[silversoldier]

[ Excellent reflexes and a good sense for magic and danger. Sephiroth thinks this might actually work. His smile is slight, but anyone who knows him would find it telling of just how pleased he is. He's still and silent for a moment while he considers his answer. ]

Someone in search of a sparring partner. You seemed capable, but I like to be certain.

[ Sephiroth appears perfectly relaxed but in truth he is ready to spring at any moment. ]

Would you care to try me?

[carbungle]

[That makes Noctis frown tightly, using his sword as leverage to get himself up on top of the pillar, keeping his gaze on the man as he dismisses his blade. The Armiger is always just a finger-twitch away, so it hardly matters.]

You make a habit of challenging people you just met to a fight? I don't even know your name.

[silversoldier]

[ Sephiroth fixates on that blade as it disappears and his smile widens just a fraction. ]

SOLDIER First Class, Sephiroth. [ It's still so strange to have to say this at all. In this case, he adds the qualifier given what he hopes they are about to do. ] I admit I'm new to having to introduce myself or look for a partner. Still, I hope you'll at least consider it.

Factory Tour

[this_loser]

Prompto comes to the factory regularly, but only to work on the surveillance equipment stationed at the back, where the mining shaft is located. But now that the factory is up and operational, he's more than a little interested in learning how it works. So here he is, scoping out the scene and scouting out a potential partner - because of course he'd need a partner.

"Hi! Want to pair up?"

Oh. Did you know Verstael had a (way more attractive) look-a-like?

[silversoldier]

Sephiroth has spent the morning exploring the ruins and has only just made his way to the factory. He's standing in front of some rather intricate looking equipment while a native explains its usage to him. After having decided it will be useful to learn more, he's begun to ponder the question of exactly where he'll find a partner as he has never been the most sociable person and that hasn't changed here.

Sephiroth is relieved when someone gives voice to his thoughts. Although, when he turns he finds that the person is very...familiar. He regards him in silence for a moment before answering, "yes, those do seem to be the requirements." Inconvenient as everything here seems to be. He turns to more fully face the stranger. "Very well."

[this_loser]

Thumbs up!

He hops over to the equipment. On closer inspection, it looks simple enough. But from what the instructor said, it might take a little practice to get the timing right. "They're all about the touchy-feely here." He takes a hold of one of the handles and waits for the other man to do the same. "I haven't seen you around before?"

[silversoldier]

"So I have found," Sephiroth says, dryly. He follows and then grabs the matching handle before offering his free hand to the other man. The instructions are rather clear on this part, at least. At the question it occurs to him that introductions are in order as well. He turns to face his partner.

"It's Sephiroth." It's still strange to have to do this at all. "I haven't been here for long."

[this_loser]

"Prompto." He takes the offered hand, and turns half his attention to the equipment. The other half is still focused on conversation. He's a multitasker. "A newbie, huh? Are you settling in okay? I know this place can be an adjustment."

[silversoldier]

"It's certainly...different," Sephiroth says, as the gauge begins to rise on the machine in front of them. There is a lot he could say on the matter, but he's never been one for sharing most of his thoughts. "You seem to have taken it rather well."