Work Text:
The following is a list of field notes compiled by Lysander Hauville, a third-year student at the Adventuring School’s Narshe branch campus. Several months after Kefka’s ascension, Hauville conducted qualitative research with the aim of learning the state of various metropolitan areas. Hauville went missing a few weeks into this endeavor and these notes were subsequently recovered in the ruins of Doma Castle. While this work remains incomplete, it is being archived as a significant post-cataclysm primary document.
NARSHE
Geographic changes are unremarkable, but some of the tectonic activity has unleashed creatures rarely seen on this continent. The tools needed to combat these monsters must be imported, and intercontinental trade has ceased. Most villagers have fled to take refuge elsewhere. Narshe’s potential economic recovery is uncertain, even if this onslaught is curtailed in the future. Seams of coal have been lit on fire in the Western and North-Eastern caverns, and attempts to put it out have failed. They will likely burn forever.
FIGARO CASTLE
Remarkably intact as of this writing. Its denizens are hostile to anyone who is an outsider, however, and so information is scarce. There are rumors that King Edgar of the Figaro Dynasty has either died or gone missing since Kefka’s ascension. He had no heir - designated or presumptive - so it is in a politically precarious position.
SOUTH FIGARO
Also quite intact, but demoralized because of the uncertain status of their monarch. Riots over resources or misinformation are common.
MT. KOLTS AND THE LETHE RIVER
Both appear to no longer exist. Trade companies in South Figaro and Jidoor have reported missing caravans in this region, and they are attempting to sue for damages. (Not to unduly editorialize, but they will likely be waiting a long time for resolution. Most people have more immediate concerns occupying their thoughts at the moment.)
SABRE MOUNTAINS
Destroyed like many mountain ranges. Initially, this region was of little interest for the purposes of this research. The Sabre Mountains have historically been sparsely populated due to its unsuitability for agriculture. There are rumors of a surprising number of remains in this area, however, and some say a Returner hideout was located in these caverns. (Further editorializing: Because the Returners are defunct, this question is also not a priority. But I do wonder about it. Before Kefka ascended, one of my closest companions in the Adventuring School became rather secretive and I suspected he had joined the Returners. I have not seen him in months, and I suppose I will never know for sure.)
THE UNNAMED TOWER (???)
Not to be confused with Kefka’s tower. There is another monument that is present on the horizon of the Doma-Mobliz region. Attempts to determine its exact coordinates are underway. As of this writing, anyone who has attempted to venture to this area in person has since been reported missing.
DOMA CASTLE
Decimated prior to Kefka’s ascent. (Editorializing: Some have told me that it is a surprisingly good location to seek refuge. Others have told me to steer clear of this location. I assume it is because the water is still poisoned.)
THE VELDT
Many geographic changes, but minimal impact on human life due to this area’s scarce population. New caverns have appeared and there is some hope that this will provide increased access to precious metals in the future. For now, access to riches excites little interest. Water is more valued due to this region's ongoing drought.
MOBLIZ
Status unknown. Rumors abound that it was completely destroyed. Others report there may still be life in this city. It is surrounded by a particularly unforgiving segment of the Veldt, and no one has successfully made contact with possible survivors.
NIKEAH
Physically unscathed, but malnutrition is a persistent problem. Nikeah has always relied on trade for its livelihood, and that has been vastly curtailed.
KOHLINGEN
A great deal of architectural damage, but relatively low loss of life. Alcohol is this town’s primary export, and they continue to be able to produce it. In fact, there is a great deal of demand for liquor right now. Moderate chance of economic revitalization in the future.
JIDOOR
Little physical destruction reported, due to its buildings being required by law to be fortified against the frequent tectonic activity in this region. Its economic prospects are somewhat reduced. As noted previously, the oligarchs who relied on intercontinental trade are discontent. Those who have invested in local artistic or academic endeavors report more stability, although there are rumors that the Opera House may need to close due decreased ticket sales and cost of upkeep.
ZOZO
Impossible to get accurate reporting on geographic, economic, or demographic changes. (Editorializing: I am more inclined to believe the third-hand reports on Doma Castle and the Unnamed Tower than I am to believe anything said by someone from this city.)
ALBROOK
Formerly relied on tourism. Now experiencing profound economic devastation and widespread illness due to bacteria in all its ports.
MARANDA
Difficult to access, but their carrier pigeons have brought reports from town. The pigeons have also provided biological information that indicate profound geographic change; although the Vector Continent is a semi-tropical region, scientific analysis of the pigeon’s wings show evidence of spores consistent with arid biomes.
TZEN
Information is scarce. Persistent rumors about an uprising against the Imperial forces occupying the town, led by the illegitimate son of their deposed king. Most soldiers presumed to be dead, although one aristocratic family in Jidoor has received carrier pigeon messages proposing a ransom for their captive son who was posted to this town as a general.
VECTOR
Nonexistent. Further research must be conducted, but reports strongly indicated that this urban area was buried under a pyroclastic flow induced by the creation of the Floating Continent.
THAMASA
Surprisingly resilient, likely because its isolation has required this town to be as self-sufficient as possible. Reports indicate a very low casualty rate, and it is uncertain why this is the case. (Editorializing: I spoke to a townswoman who stated they had a great deal of Cure medicine in their reserves, and this seems plausible to me.)