seawarden: (Default)
Escordvi Mods ([personal profile] seawarden) wrote in [community profile] escordvi2024-02-10 10:49 am

« february: dragon's gale (test sail) »



Welcome to the Test Drive Meme for [community profile] escordvi! Anyone can participate in the test drive, regardless of invite eligibility. Just keep in mind that only those who have received invitations from the mods can only reserve on February 23rd and apply on March 1st. Our EMP/ATP can be found here.

For your toplevel, please include the following: Character Name | Canon | Armada Choice | TDM (IF TDMING). Current players can use the same header, just without the "TDM" label. We do require those who are TDMin'g to include the label so other players can distinguish between others.

For everyone's convenience, TDM threads can be carried over in game if you wish! If you are still unsure which armada to place your character, you can play it a bit loose and vague in the TDM and make retroactive changes if you carry over the threads. The log itself is set to cover starting from October 13th until the end of the month. Characters will appear at random intervals during this time rather than all at once, so players have some more flexibility on how much more adjusted they are for someone else.

If you have any question about the TDM, comment here. If you have questions about the game in general, please comment to the Game Info.

TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated 2/16)
TEST SAILORS:
Bungou Stray Dogs - Fyodor Dostoevsky | Paladin
Chronicles of Narnia - Reepicheep | Paladin
Cookie Run: Kingdom - Pure Vanilla Cookie | Paladin
Fallen Hero - Sidestep | Corsair
Final Fantasy XVI - Midadol Telamon | Corsair
Genshin Impact - Tighnari | Undecided
Genshin Impact - Dehya | Corsair
Genshin Impact - Shikanoin Heizou | Undecided
Good Omens - Aziraphale | Paladin
Good Omens - Crowley | Corsair
Hazbin Hotel - Sir Pentious | Corsair
Hazbin Hotel - Alastor | Corsair
Hazbin Hotel - Lucifer | Corsair
Honkai Star Rail - Natasha | Undecided
Identity V - Grace (The "Naiad") | Undecided
Jujutsu Kaisen - Gojo Satoru | Corsair
Kingdom Hearts - Sora | Paladin
Kung Fu Panda - Master Oogway | Undecided
Love Between Fairy and Devil - Orchid | Paladin
Magic: The Gathering - Ral Zarek | Corsair
Marvel - Matt Murdock | Paladin
Mononoke - The Medicine Seller | Corsair
Octopath Traveler - Alfyn Greengrass | Undecided
Original Character - Yua | Corsair
One Piece - Eustass Kid | Corsair
Owl house - Edalyn Clawthorn | Corsair
Persona 3 - Minato Arisato | Corsair
Persona 3 Portable - Junpei Iori | Undecided
Persona 5 - Goro Akechi | Paladin
Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened - Sherlock Holmes | Paladin
Tales of Symphonia - Kratos Aurion | Paladin
Tales of Symphonia - Lloyd Irving | Paladin
Voltron: Legendary Defender - Hunk Garrett | Paladin


CURRENT MEMBERS:
Azure Lane - Enterprise (CV-6) | Paladin
Baldur's Gate 3 - Astarion | Corsair
Daria - Daria Morgendorffer | Corsair
Final Fantasy XIV - Emet-Selch | Paladin
Genshin Impact - Kavh | Paladin
Genshin Impact - Alhaitham | Paladin
Granblue Fantasy - Eustace | Corsair
Kingdom Hearts - Roxas | Paladin
Love Between Fairy and Devil - Dongfang Qingcang | Corsair
Mass Effect - Garrus Vakarian | Paladin
Mycroft Holmes - Mycroft Holmes | Paladin
Pokemon - Professor Turo | Paladin
Ranma 1/2 - Ranma Saotome | Corsair




GETTING STARTED

This section can be timed for any time after February 10th until the end of the month, which includes during the current event. These prompts are to benefit those TDMing, but this portion can be handwaved instead and be served as a reference for players to know what their character will have experienced and learned on arrival.

STARTER SHIPS There are two ships that serve as starting ships for each armada: Stormbringer for the Corsairs, and Royal Fortune for the Paladins. There are various ways new arrivals—or riftfarers as they will be called, among other creative names—will appear on or by these ships. The crews for both ships will also seem a bit odd to some, as it is a mix of humans and various animalfolk, non-humans that look more animal than human. Some just look like large versions of their smaller counterparts. From birds, to seals, to even bears, there is no shortage of interesting faces and people on these ships.



🚪 Random room. It could be empty, filled with crates or supplies; down in the hull where the livestock are kept; have the luck to awaken in a bed...or the misfortune of that bed already occupied; somewhere in the kitchens; in the bathroom—any room! Now let's hope the doors can open or someone may have to try and ask for help. Or jump through the porthole if there is one and it's above water.
On deck. If not in the ship itself, another possible spot to wake up to is somewhere on the maindeck. If they're lucky, they're on the deck itself. More unfortunate souls may find themselves caught in the sails or netting, the crow's nest, or on the top of the masts. Someone should be able to help, right? Or catch.
🌊 In the water. The most unlucky sods will find themselves appearing in mid-air just past the ship and plummeting straight into the water. Good news, there's always someone on the look out for such a thing and calls for help to throw a lifesaver get the rowboat will be made. Are there sharks? Well... ...Are there?

However the new riftfarers arrive, they will be poorly clothed, practically rags or loose uniforms depending on the ship. Fortunately, veteran crewmates will guide them, escorting them to a room with a strange typewriter in it. After typing their name, the typewriter will magically continue and type by itself at a fast pace until it dings and rolls out the paper. This paper will have the following information:



Name and Shellphone ID (journalname)
Armada (Corsair or Paladin, will match the starter ship)
Cabin Number for their personal cabin on the starter ship
Apartment Address for their personal address at their base armada location
• A basic map of the starting locations in Eltrut, including written directions (continued in the Eltrut section)
• A basic map of where they can find a chest with their original clothes and belongings (this will be different for every person and will be anywhere either on the starter ship or on Eltrut—players can be creative here).

After that, the crewmate will do their best to explain the basics of how they got here, what's going on, and what they'll need to do to live in Escordvi while they are here, giving them a small leather pouch with money. They will be reaching Eltrut soon, so the crewmate will suggest they look around, meet the others who have arrived. Even from their distance, they will be able to see the giant sea turtle that serves as Eltrut's leviathan.


ON ELTRUT Once in Eltrut, the new riftfarers will be greeted by several birdfolk who will be happy to give tours to those who may need them. Otherwise, anyone is free to roam as they please and will have a map for the following main places they should visit.



🐚 Microshell. The first stop that is encouraged will be Microshell, the main store to acquire their own personal Shellphone. The paper they received on their starter ship will have their ID and the staff at the store will set them up, explaining how the device and the network works.
✒️ Inkwave, Tattoo Parlor. The next stop is Inkwave, a tattoo parlor run by a very burly but friendly octopus, Knistej. Here everyone receives their own unique magic tattoo, allowing anyone to cast specific single element spells and other magic. Note: tattoos are required before anyone will be able to use their original magical abilities.
📜 MANTA office. The final stop is the MANTA office, where all the request, mission, and task notices are posted. Each armada has their own branch office for armada specific notices as well. A great place to find jobs to earn some cash so they don't stay a hobo forever.



OCARD: ISLAND OF DRAGONS

Early in the month, Nogard will travel to the island of Ocard where dragons of all types can already be seen migrating to it. A large island filled with clear blue lakes, dense forests, high mountainous cliffs, and even large, rocky platforms that somehow float in the air, it is the perfect place for such mythical creatures to gather, mingle, and hopefully find their mate and brood. While some dragons do remain on the island as permanent residents, the real "keepers" of Ocard are the dragonfolk. Living deep within the forests, they are a race of dragons that come in different sizes and forms, but have less magic and power compared to the larger ones. They help protect the land and ensure it continues to thrive so that the dragons can come and go without issue.

Those from Eltrut and Elah will have access to a special dragon-run ship that will cut through the waters and get them there within two days.



While it is impossible to cover all the types of dragons that are coming into Ocard, and there are many hybrids and mixes, they are generally grouped into the following types:

💨 Air. Air dragons look like they’re made of diamonds with transparent bodies and fluffy feathered wings. They are gentle and peaceful and like to play. They will toss people in the air or give them the temporary ability to fly with their dragon’s breath. They like to play harmless pranks on others like stealing items, kidnapping people for rides in the clouds or impersonating the voices of loved ones.

🔥 Fire. These are quadrupedal, lizard-like and have thick leathery wings. They are playfully aggressive and like to fight and show off their strength. They’ll do anything to show off their might which means they will challenge anyone and everything to a fight. But it is important to note that they’re not bloodthirsty. They just love competition and will back down if they rightfully lose. They have the ability to heal anyone after a duel and like to give winners shiny gold coins.

💧 Water. These ones are fish and snake-like, with long bodies and fins and shiny lustrous scales. They spend most of their time in the water and like to jump out and make a show of dancing on top of the water and over the waves. They are performing creatures and love music and dance and will coax others to either swim with them or dance with them on the water’s surface. They enjoy lifting spirits and will give others bits of wisdom and life advice. For anyone who shows an appreciation for music, they will gift them pretty gemstones.

⛰️ Earth. They are heavy, thick and dinosaur-like and look like they are made of stone and metal. They like to breathe on plant life to make it grow faster and love to munch on trees and bushes. They can make flowers grow in people’s hair and will give them sweet fruits to eat. They also enjoy talking and sharing stories and will often offer words of affirmation to those who need a boost of self-esteem.

Lightning. These dragons look like they’re made of a thundercloud, with puffy bodies and electrical currents running through them. They are dreamers and like to nap or put people to sleep. They will give dreamers good dreams and curl up with them to sleep as well. They are experts in dreaming so if asked politely about the sleeping curse they will give others a black round amulet to cure one person each of the sleeping curse. It coughs up the amulet, so the requester will need to wipe off the sticky saliva.

🕶️ Darkness. These dark dragons have huge thick leathery wings and dark metal-like scales and nails. They often breathe out black smoke and have dark-coloured eyes or piercing bright yellow ones. Despite their dark look, these dragons are not hostile in any way. They dislike fighting and would rather lounge around and listen to the world passing by them. Despite that, they like to inflict nightmares on sleeping creatures just to see them squirm or to make their dreams just a little more interesting. They might also know about the sleeping curse and can extract sleeping demons… If they care enough to help. They might need convincing in the form of many delicious snacks.


While the festivities of Dragon's Gale are the predominant attraction of Ocard, the island itself holds ample opportunities of resources and locations that visitors can explore… But the dragons will not promise any protection for those who venture further than the designated zones. Although dragons reign supreme, there are other monsters and hazards that can threaten not only non-dragons, but young hatchlings as well. Threats that the dragons will gladly reward those who help deal with them.



🌳 Poisoned Trees. Giant, poisonous spiders managed to infest and poison part of the forest and the earth dragons are trying to clear them out. Climb high to burn the webs using special crystals granted by the dragons that won't harm the trees, and beware the thorny vines that try to trap and attack. If poisoned by the spiders or trees, a cure made by crystal honey must be eaten before nightfall.
🐊 Swamp. Large snakes and basilisks have increased in number and threaten to hunt and eat young dragon hatchlings and dragon eggs laid by the earth and water dragons within the territory. Cull the numbers and save any caught.
🌊 Toxic Lake. One of the usually pristine lakes had a dangerous algae bloom and has become toxic. The water dragons have cleansed their own areas but the wildlife is at risk of becoming decimated. The lake must be purified either through magic or some kind of filtration system while also restoring the devastated wildlife.
🦴 Graveyard. Permission has been granted for visitors to harvest a few dragon bones, which can be potent for many spells and potions of all kinds. While there, they may see shadows and ghosts of dragons past, and if they listen carefully they may even hear of their stories. Just beware of some of the skeletal remains suddenly rising up to attack. Whether they are cursed remains or a dragon playing a prank, better to fend them off and let them rest in peace once and for all rather than joining them.
🌻 Floating Gardens. Maintained by the air and earth dragons, one of the large, floating land masses within the island houses a vast array of gardens filled with various flowers, plants, and trees that are both native to the island and imported from others. One could argue this is their great treasure, especially with various "snapping" creatures roaming through to guard any who try to destroy or take the flowers without permission. Wind and earth crystals can also be found and are free to harvest.

There is one particular type of place that visitors may want to stay away from—or perhaps may want to find one of their own. For dragons who have found their mate, they will seek an empty grotto and pledge their vows. While some dragons will only stay together for the brooding season, others will remain as lifelong partners. It's a beautiful thing…that most will not want to bear witness so shoo. Even dragons need privacy.


DRAGON'S GALE

With the assistance of the Corsairs who share a natural affinity towards the dragons due to Nogard's own draconic form, large feasts and challenges are held often as entertainment for visitors. The dragons also participate in these activities, as they also use them as an opportunity to show off and meet other potential mates. Or perhaps it's not a dragon that catches their eye…!?

There is a plethora of activities as one might expect for a time of celebration and matchmaking. Although the focus is on the dragons, the spirit and mood makes them playful enough to try and push their non-dragon guests to find their own "special partner." And for those who are not so romantically inclined, forging friendships and strong bonds are also heavily encouraged.



🐲 Dragon Riding. If anyone is brave enough to climb up on an unsuspecting dragon or jump on the back of one without notice they may be able to take that dragon for a joy ride. If the dragon possesses wings, prepare for a breathtaking journey soaring high above the clouds, gripping tightly as it gracefully glides through the sky. Should it be a sea-dwelling dragon, be prepared for an underwater adventure, diving into dark caverns or plunging beneath the waves—requiring you to master the art of holding your breath. And for those riding land dragons, brace yourself for a wild and bumpy journey as they thunder or race each other across the terrain. Locals say that if riders can hold and stay on the dragon for the entire duration of the ride, they will have good fortunes for the year. Don’t fall off!
🐉 Dancing Dragons. As the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, closer to sunset, the dragons will start their elaborate courtship dances. It's a mesmerizing spectacle—a graceful dance between two dragons, their movements perfectly synchronized as they weave and twirl around each other in pretty and rhythmic patterns. The sight is captivating, maybe even drawing others into the enchanting display. Some may feel compelled to join in the festivities, inviting someone to dance with them amidst the swirling dragons. It’s the perfect backdrop to an intimate dance.
🤺 Dragon Duels. Fighting for one's potential love or friend is a common way to exhibit one's strength, and the dragons are no different. There are numerous arenas and stages set up around the main area and anyone is encouraged to step up and fight, even if it's just for fun. The dragons are particularly interested in watching any Corsair vs. Paladin matches and may even just shove them in there. Real weapons and magic are allowed, and only intervention from the dragons is a "no death" spell where all fatal hits turn into an explosion of tomato sauce.
📿 Dragon Charms. Many people have made it a tradition to make little dragon-shaped charms for good luck. Use special silk strings to make colourful charms that can be attached to clothing or bags as a cute little fashion statement. They make nice gifts as well!
🥚 Dragon Eggs. Using fake bejeweled, faberge eggs, Corsairs must try to "steal" the eggs and hide them while the Paladins must try and retrieve them. It's supposed to be a fun, competitive game between the two Armadas as well as a chance for either to win the egg at the end. However, there is a smuggling group that is using the game as a guise to try and steal real dragon eggs, which look quite different. Stop and catch these thieves for the dragons turn the entire island into a wasteland in trying to retrieve the eggs themselves.


Unlike other festival type feasts, the kind hosted by the dragons are huge with more of an all-you-can-eat buffet style. Held during the evenings and always accompanied with giant casks of ale, there are large portions of meat, all hunted by the dragons and dragonfolk, though they will welcome any who may try their luck and offer something to the many tables as well. Just beware taking on a drinking challenge from a dragon—they have greater tolerance than most and will be quick to goad anyone to try and drink them under the table (though they usually end up on top instead). But for those who may want a lighter snack, there are many stalls selling special delicacies—that have a little extra something to them.



🥐 Dragon Croissant. Adorable pastries shaped like tiny dragons. Anyone who's eaten a croissant will be granted a partial or full dragon transformation for the day. Unfortunately, those wings can't fly.
🎱 Dragon Balls. They say that eating the Dragon Balls will grant you one wish, but no one has confirmed or denied whether they come true. The truth is... whatever is wished for will end up with some kind of twist. For example, wishing for riches will grant a nice pile of chocolate coins.
🧔 Dragon Beard Candy. These sweet little candies will grant people the gift of flight for one hour.
🍍 Dragonfruit Bowls. Served in pitaya shells, these colorful and refreshing mixed fruit salads will relieve the eaters' stress and make them feel more confident.
🌶️ Rainbow Dragon Peppers. Depending on the colour of pepper, those who are brave enough to eat the peppers will be given a special type of breath: fire, lightning, or ice.
🧋 Boba Tea. Makes every emotion someone is feeling intensified (level of intensity differs person to person.)

While Nogard is readily available for those willing to stay within Corsair territory (for a very high fee), there are plenty of inns and campsites that visitors can use for their stay. Just be prepared to share rooms and tents if there aren't enough vacant spots.


CASTLE RAIDS

Scattered throughout the island are numerous castles and ancient temples and buildings that many dragons have called their own. From high up in the mountains and floating land masses, to deep within the lakes and caves, there is question of whether these structures are leftovers from the "old world" or if they were built especially for the dragons. Perhaps a mix of both. Regardless, all of them house untold treasures and relics that the dragon resident has collected over time.

And Dragon's Gale is the perfect time for their "spring cleaning" of sorts.

While a dragon would rather kill anyone who tries to take their hoard, it has become tradition to allow non-dragon visitors to test their might and wit to actually do so. They have to begrudgingly admit they have way too much and some can be hazard for young dragons, so they set aside what they are (un)willing to part with and those who are able to pass through their challenges and traps, or perhaps even face the dragon itself, can keep their rewards.

To make things more interesting and in the spirit of their own endeavors in finding a mate, there is a known "challenge" where dragons will dragonnap unsuspecting individuals, usually those who are seen either with a significant other or close friends, and bring them to their castle. Now their "hostage" must be saved. While some may disagree, the dragons find this "game" a surefire way to help unwilling couples or friends to show their bonds. No harm will come to the hostage, unless something should happen to incite the dragon's ire…



🕸️ Maze. The castle itself is a labyrinth of corridors that twist and turn among themselves. Not only that, but there are illusory walls and floors that are designed to disorient people, so everyone should keep their wits about them! Large, feral spiders creep among the dusty cobwebs, and down the other corridor is a toy spider that, if broken, has candy inside. Try not to trip the giant rolling boulders, or else be ready to run and duck into other corridors to escape!
💨 Traps. The castle is armed with all sorts of dangerous traps, so watch your step! Flamethrowers, hidden trap doors that drop into dangerous spike pits, tripwires that will trigger spiked walls to close in. There are even some rooms fortified with smoke traps that will shroud anyone in darkness. Should anyone choose to take the less adventurous route, instead of steel, everything will be made of foam, the pits will be filled with all manner of nasty things (pudding, whipped cream, jello, balls!), and the darkness gas will be replaced with laughing gas. Opening a random chest may also send people to another random room in the castle, so be warned!
🪄 Magic Hexes. Randomly, magical hexes will be cast in an attempt to disorient the raiders. They can range from paralysis to confusion, even sometimes hallucinations. Other times, they can be physical effects—oops, did their legs just turn into fins? Why does it feel like someone is tickling them for ten minutes non-stop?
🗝️ Guardians. A fortress of treasures always has to have guards, so there will be encounters with stone gargoyles, trolls, wyvern, and the like. Fend them off!

For those who do make it past the many obstacles and out of the traps, they will be faced with one final challenge: battle the one of the many dragons! Whether caught attempting to steal treasure that they will guard or trying to save a hostage, they are on full alert, and boy, do the dragons love a good fight. While these battles will not be too challenging, they are still looking for raiders and rescuers to put on a good fight and show with them. Weapons and magic are fair game, and they will do the same, but remember: this is just that, a game.

In the end, they are simply trying to strengthen the bonds of others, and maybe even play a little bit of matchmaker. Just remember that this is all for fun, so show off a little to impress that hostage, add a bit of dramatic flair, and have a good time!


QUESTS

The current MANTA Board is available, but we have a couple of additional quests that are specific for the event! Teaming up is of course encouraged, no matter what the affiliation. You can assume they acquired some kind of ship for the quests out at sea, either the starter ship or some other ship heading out there. All quests will be worth 4 points.



Bite-Sized Blessings
Nogard and Ocard

It’s been a few months since the little pink dragon that was loose around the leviathans was caught and safely returned to Nogard where she can live a peaceful life. But now that the dragons have started to migrate she’s become restless, and while she is too young to find a mate, she also wants to play and know what it's like to be in love. The task is simple: take this little pink dragon, as big as a house cat now, on a nice little “date.” Take her walking, take her to see some music, treat her to a nice meal (raw and alive food!) and hold her little clawed paws. Treat her like she’s special and she might kiss your cheek for a lovely day. And that kiss will be a good luck blessing for your own love life.


A Shroom with a View
Everywhere

Strangely coloured mushrooms have been appearing all over the leviathans. These pesky mushrooms have a stinky acrid smell and have been irritating the leviathans in a bad way. They need these mushrooms picked and disposed of as soon as possible or the smell is only going to get worse and worse. Beware, when picking these mushrooms they give off a terrible dust that when inhaled will plague the picker with strange dreamy hallucinations. Strangely enough… These mushrooms might have the ability to force sleeping demons to try and escape their current victim because they can’t stand the smell.


Walking On Sunshine
Everywhere

Have you ever wondered how to walk on water? Sunfish have started to overpopulate the waters which have left many shallows stoked to the brim with them. Sunfish are regrettably untasty fish so the children in the area have made a game out of them rather than trying to fish them for food. Try your best to hop from sunfish to sunfish and make your way as far as you can go before the fish can’t hold your weight any longer.


Fuss in Boots
Eltrut

An old haggard cat has been roaming around Eltrut adorning a very fancy feather pirate’s hat and a black eyepatch. This refined cat has lost its previous captain and is looking for the dead man’s lost peg leg. He needs help finding the peg leg because the cat claims that there is a special treasure hidden inside the wooden leg. Help him find the peg leg and if found he’ll crack it open only to reveal a hidden stash of catnip. He’ll laugh at you for being so gullible but at least you helped little ol’ him. And no, he does not want you to adopt him. If you suggest it he’ll call you a “Lily-livered Bootlick” and say he would survive better on his own. Wow, he’s kind of mean…





apothecarry: (bring it on!)

Alfyn Greengrass | Octopath Traveler | Undecided | TDM

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-11 07:10 pm (UTC)(link)
Arrival
[It wasn't the best feeling, plunging into cold water and fighting his way to the surface in strange clothes. Even that hasn't been enough to deter Alfyn's sunny disposition, though. He's got his paper with its numbers tucked safely into a pocket, at first, and then into his satchel, because his very first priority is getting his things back; the clothes don't matter so much. But his overcoat, and especially his satchel, he'd feel lost without those. Really, he's grateful they didn't have a dunk in the sea alongside him, or a lot of his medicines might have been ruined.

Also fortunately, everything was on the ship that hauled him out of the water. Maybe he'll question that later; for now he's changed and greeting fellow newcomers, as suggested, at least until they get to Eltrut.

Whistling, he comes out of the magic tattoo shop, rolling his shoulders.]


Time to get to work.

[Which is how he gets to the MANTA office - and then on the fast track to the festivities of Ocard and Dragon's Gale.]

Swamp
[This is one way to get his feet wet - Alfyn finds himself facing off against an improbably large snake. It takes him right back to the days just before he left home, even while he's standing between the snake and a half-gone nest of eggs with his axe in hand. A couple comparatively smaller snakes have even joined the fray. He's not sure he can keep them all back for long - the big one strikes and he barely dodges, but at least its head smacks into the ground pretty harmlessly...

There's a sound off to the left: someone stepping through the brush, and the big snakes turn to lunge at the newcomer instead-!]


Hey, look out!

Gardens
[Over the course of his wandering the island, Alfyn has made friends with an earth dragon! It's a rather small one, but it took very kindly to Alfyn's cheerful hello and his offer of a branch or two full of leaves to snack on; in return, a crown of flowers has sprouted in Alfyn's hair while he and the dragon walk about the gardens together.

Either with his new friend, or without them, though, if he runs across a friendly-seeming face* he'll wave for their attention with a bright Hey there!]


Isn't this garden amazing? [He's been nothing but impressed by the color, variety, and vitality of the plant life here.] Oh, right - Alfyn Greengrass, pleased to meetcha. Are you new around here too? I was hoping to find someone who knows a thing or two about the plants in this place. See, I know I won't be able to hang on to my stock from back home for very long.

[*All faces are potentially friendly for Alfyn so it doesn't...really matter if he spots a scowl.]

Castle Maze
[This isn't Alfyn's first trip into dark twisting corridors that might find ways to surprise him! He sort of wishes the previous time was the last, though; he's already narrowly avoided some spiders and run into a "dead end" of previously-closed spiked walls. Yikes! The moments of bravery he had about coming in here, thinking of a couple specific friends who would light up at the possibility of treasure, feel very far away right now.

As such! He's resolved to keep pressing onward, and to keep his eyes and ears open - for traps, yeah, but more importantly, for other people who might need his help! At the sight or sound of danger, he'll alter course and head over to help whoever's caught in a bad spot - whether it's still a fight, or they've been hurt or gotten stuck due to some other sort of hazard.]

Other
[Alfyn is new, a little lost, and incredibly personable; catch him failing to eat the too-cute bread or coerce him (this will be very easy) into helping get an egg - get an egg back? - or sit down with him by his little evening campfire/contemplating that dragon drinking contest and swap food and stories. Or something else! I'm up for most anything.]
key2myheart: (Sora 06)

Swamp

[personal profile] key2myheart 2024-02-12 06:58 am (UTC)(link)
[Someone once accused Sora of being too helpful (Okay, several someones but that’s besides the point) and he was starting to believe that maybe there was some merit to that statement as he found himself picking his way through a messy swamp trying to find some hatchlings that had wandered out too far, all because some nice dragon lady had asked him to.

They were just little kids and who says no to something so important as saving kids? Forget the fact that a lot of people still considered him a kid too; he sure did. The point was that he really had to stop just saying ‘Yes’ to anyone that started a conversation with “Can you help me?”. It was becoming (more of) a problem.

Almost as much of a problem as the heavy swamp brush that Sora found himself having to check under every few feet to see if there were any scared hatchlings underneath. So far he'd found two of them but their mom, or at least he assumed it was their mom, had said there were four and so far he hadn’t seen a sign of them yet. He'd made a lot of noise but he hadn't found the kids yet. Instead what he got for his efforts was a call of warning as Sora pushed his way through the brush and into the path of a lunging snake bigger than well…Bigger than him and that was the important part. Or maybe the wide open jaws were?]


Ack!

[Dignified as ever, Sora.

Muscle memories kicked in and a sword that looked like an oversized key was snapped up to parry the huge serpent’s fangs from actually sinking into him before he rolled to the left and back into a defensive stance.]


Thanks for the head’s up!
apothecarry: (that's what i'm talkin' about)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-13 12:31 am (UTC)(link)
Sure! You all right?

[Shouted across the gap between them as Alfyn gets a hit in on one of the smaller snakes. Good. One less to deal with. Truth be told, he doesn't love killing anything, even when the anything is trying its darnedest to take him out...but if the snake population has grown so large and dangerous that it's threatening everything else, he doesn't see that he has much of a choice.

Alfyn glances over at the newcomer and that is one interesting...blade? He uses it like a blade.

The big snake can't seem to pick a proper target now, but the little ones are headed away from Alfyn and toward their latest opponent.]


I'll keep the big guy busy!

[Between the axe and his restored ice magic, that shouldn't be hard! He uses that magic to make up the large snake's mind for it, hop-walking quickly away from the other fellow, keeping just at the edge of the serpent's reach.]
key2myheart: (Sora 011)

[personal profile] key2myheart 2024-02-13 10:33 am (UTC)(link)
[A quick mental count of fingers, toes, limbs and lack of pain later and the spiky haired boy gives a curt nod.]

I think so! Are you?

[Sora supposed it was possible that the dragon lady had asked several people for help before he had agree and given how big it seemed that the snakes got out here, he was kind of relieved to find someone else looking too but he could do without the snakes in the first place. Whoever his new friend was though, he seemed to have a better grasp on the whole swamp situation than Sora, especially when he starts to conjure blasts of ice to distract the bigger snake and draw it away.

Another item on the ever growing list of things that Sora really needed to get caught up on.]


Be careful!

[There was an irony there that was totally lost on this situation but the teen only vaguely realized that as he focused his attention of the pair of relatively smaller serpents advancing towards him.

Not that their size really mattered too much to Sora currently. He could deal with being worried about that afterwards, instead he adjusted his grip on the hilt of his sword from single handed to two as he lunged towards one with a rapid and strong slash to go on the offence instead of staying defensive.

Despite the unusual shape of his blade, there was no denying the aggressive slash mark left behind on the creature's flank as it recoiled from the stinging pain with an angry hiss.]

apothecarry: (nice chattin' with ya)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-14 03:24 am (UTC)(link)
[It isn't the first time he's faced down an overgrown serpent by himself!

He can't spare a lot of attention for the fighting off to the side, though. Not unless he wants to meet the business end of a couple of fangs. Are these snakes venomous?

But he said he'd play distraction, and he meant it; he's gotten much better at a good dodge in his months of travel, and the snake doesn't seem quite clever enough to realize it's being toyed with while its little helpers are dealt with.]


When you're done over there, help me out!
key2myheart: (Sora 011)

[personal profile] key2myheart 2024-02-14 05:49 am (UTC)(link)
On it! [And he really was as the young teen dodges to the right as the second snake strikes for him and he slashes into it as well before he delivers a couple more stinging blows, ending one and causing the other to reconsider its position in this fight as it recoiled and rapidly slithered off deeper into the swamp to get away.

Sora took a quick off of a breath to watch the one snake run away before he turned his attention over to the blonde stranger and the behemoth of a snake that he was nimbly leading around by the tip of his snout while it was none the wiser.

It gave the boy enough time to race behind it in a flanking move as he readied himself to strike on Alfyn's word]
Ready?

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delay??? you are so fast

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phoenixdominant: <user name=sheme> (pic#16608239)

gardens

[personal profile] phoenixdominant 2024-02-13 12:53 am (UTC)(link)
[Joshua is fairly accustomed to dragons by now especially since one of his closest companions is also one of them. So their trip to Ocard has been a delightful one. He has marvelled at the beautiful landscapes and at the even more beautiful array of flying dragons all about. He wishes to study them closer which is why he's in the gardens now and waving to one of the air dragons as it lifts its feathery wings and flies away after a good scratch under its chin.]

Oh, hello. A pleasure to make your acquaintance as well, Alfyn Greengrass. My name is Joshua Rosfield.

[What a pleasant encounter!]

I'm by no means new by most standards now, but that does mean I may be able to answer some questions you might have. And while I'm no botanist, I'm curious—what exactly are you looking to unload?
Edited 2024-02-13 00:57 (UTC)
apothecarry: (that'll do 'er)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-13 03:20 am (UTC)(link)
Unload?

[Alfyn thinks back over what he said, and what Joshua just said. Oh. He laughs - clearly directed at himself - and pats the satchel slung over his shoulder.]

Guess I didn't make myself very clear. I'm not trying to get rid of anything, just to add to it. I'm an apothecary, and what I came with isn't going to last forever because it'll lose its potency, or I'll have to use it, and then where will me and my friends be if we get stuck in a bad spot?

[Still wearing a winning smile, Alfyn mimes a helpless shrug.]

But all the plants here are new to me. So I was hoping I could find someone who'd point me in the right direction to read up on 'em.
phoenixdominant: <user name=sheme> (pic#16608303)

[personal profile] phoenixdominant 2024-02-13 03:43 am (UTC)(link)
Ah, I see. Forgive my assumption.

[Joshua nods. So it seems this man has somewhat of a medicinal herb background so it only makes sense he would want to start to learn about the various plants and such here. Joshua is an expert healer when it comes to magic so he wouldn't be an expert in plants but luckily he's still keen.]

There could be two ways you could learn about the flora and fauna here. There's the paladin's library on Elah, their leviathan. But that will require you to travel there. They also have a substantial conservatory with all sorts of plants both medicinal and otherwise.

[He may have broken in there once or twice before...]

The other way is to speak with an earth dragon.
apothecarry: (break into a smile)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-13 03:58 am (UTC)(link)
[It may not have seemed possible until it happens, but Alfyn breaks into an even bigger grin at the mention of earth dragons. Very carefully he runs gloved fingers over the petals of his impromptu flower crown.]

I met one! She was pretty young, though, and couldn't really tell me anything in the way I needed to know about it. Which makes sense, when you think about it. I've got to know what the properties of my medicines'll do to a human, most of the time. Ain't too many times I've had to use 'em on other folks. But, it's also not necessarily something a dragon would know about? But even that's hard for me to say. Up until a little while ago, dragons back home were just in stories for me.

[The time they spent together was just great regardless.]

A library sounds good! It'd be even better if I could take a copy of a book with me though. Either way, those things aren't around here, so I won't be trying anything with these plants.

[Another shrug. He can't catch a break! But making his way around the floating gardens has felt like a break, so calm and quiet, all the invigorating green.]

What brings you here? If you don't mind me asking.
phoenixdominant: <user name=sheme> (pic#16608301)

[personal profile] phoenixdominant 2024-02-15 05:56 am (UTC)(link)
You already have met a young earth dragon? You must be of the lucky sort.

[Sure, there are a ton of dragons flying all over the place right now but what are the odds! Joshua hasn't met an earth dragon yet and he'd been hoping to.

He gives a quiet nod. The library in Elah is free for paladins to take books as they need. Corsairs... Not so much. But sometimes Joshua "borrows" them anyway. He puts them back later, don't worry.]


As for why I'm in the gardens today? Curiosity, mostly. I've always been fascinated by learning and adventuring myself so when dragons started flying overhead I couldn't help myself. One thing led to another and here I am.

[He courches down to a gathering of pretty blue flowers.]

I wonder if it would be alright take a few.

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ku_de_grace: (fighting for my friends!!)

🐍 🐍 🐍

[personal profile] ku_de_grace 2024-02-14 11:09 pm (UTC)(link)
[- but luckily, the newcomer has quick reflexes, and even as Alfyn yells the warning, a red-and-black blur moves aside, and the snake's jaws snap shut on nothing but a leaf. Barely a breath later, there's a shnnk as Hikari unsheathes his sword and slices at the snake's back, aiming to sever it while it's extended. But the snake is already twisting away, and though Hikari manages a slice, the serpent's scales prove too slick for the sword to fully catch in motion, and the cut remains too shallow to do more than further enrage the creature.

Hissing as it recoils, the massive reptile prepares to strike again!

Hikari, meanwhile, holds his katana at the ready, a high guard that he might cut the next snake at a better angle. His attention remains on the snakes, but he steps carefully closer to Alfyn so that both of them form a line of defense between the nest and the noodles.]


I trust you won't mind if I lend my blade.

[His tone is serious, but there's a warmth to it, as he spares the briefest of sideways glances at Alfyn, both assessing and ascertaining just how welcome help might be and how well they might work together, how he may have to adapt his own fighting.]
apothecarry: (get down to work)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-15 01:38 am (UTC)(link)
[At first, Alfyn thinks it must be another snake, it's moving so fast.

But no - it's a person. Someone with real training, judging by his speed and the size and shape of that blade. Alfyn whistles, mostly to himself. The newcomer gets a hit in, too, which is a lot better than Alfyn himself has managed to do while trying to protect these eggs.]


Mind?

[The man's edging over; he has the biggest one's attention, but the two little ones have their noses trained on Alfyn still, and he shifts his weight and readies his axe again.]

I'd be real happy for it. [There's time for a quick, reassuring smile.] Keeping 'em off the nest myself hasn't been easy.
ku_de_grace: (smiling at a friend!!)

[personal profile] ku_de_grace 2024-02-16 02:34 pm (UTC)(link)
[The corner of Hikari's mouth quirks up in response, his attention turning fully back to the snakes.]

Even so, it seems you've done an admirable job--

[The word distorts into a grunt as the large snake (with no respect whatsoever for talking as a free action in turn-based battles!) lunges once more, though this time instead of dodging aside, Hikari meets the snake head - or, well... sword - on, intercepting its slathering fangs with his blade angled to deflect and push aside. He then uses the momentum to spin, attempting to catch the serpent before it can fully retract for another strike. But, again, though he manages to score a glancing blow, the scales prove a strong defense.

Not for the first time since splashing into this new world, Hikari's thoughts turn briefly to friends left behind. This time, he thinks of what Osvald might say, what weak points he might deduce... They had encountered massive serpents in their travels before, but it was hard to say if the ones here were best dealt with in the same way.]


Have you ever fought creatures like these before?

[But maybe this potential new friend might know?]
Edited 2024-02-16 15:09 (UTC)
apothecarry: (this could be serious)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-16 04:44 pm (UTC)(link)
[Ha! That brief little half smile! Alfyn considers this a victory, for reasons he can't really understand while a trio of oversized snakes is on the prowl and he's the prey.]

Yeah! I have, now that you mention it.

[Though it was a lifetime ago for Alfyn as a person, he'll never forget facing down the blotted viper. He takes a step back and holds out a hand, cold air gathering in front of it.]

I can slow 'em down, at least. If they're like snakes back home. Keep back a minute!

[The cold air condenses and bursts forward as a spike of ice; it strikes the big snake cleanly, causing it to recoil. The frigid air doesn't do it any favors, either, and its two lackeys reel in visible disorientation.

The hand that commanded the ice now holds his axe.]


Let's see if I can't get a few good ones in. If you know any magic? Might help.
ku_de_grace: (i draw my sword for my friends!!)

[personal profile] ku_de_grace 2024-02-16 07:53 pm (UTC)(link)
[Hikari keeps back at the warning. Something about that chilly blast feels oddly familiar - or maybe it is just the juxtaposition of axe and ice that calls to mind another missing friend. Either way, if snakes could stumble, he thinks this is what it would look like.]

🐍 🐍 🐍
[?][?][?][?]

Excellent work. I'll see what I can do.

[Shifting his sword to one hand, Hikari calls to mind past lessons and past battles and invokes the same element as he gestures:] Freeze!

[Physical weapons have ever been Hikari's strong suit, but he's picked up enough to call a second eruption of icicles from the mud below the snakes in an almost-echo of Alfyn's spell, save that these spikes are smaller and spread between all three of the serpents. Not as damaging as one strong blow, but it should help in keeping the nope ropes all clustered and maybe even stuck in place long enough for the two of them to finish the job.]

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verboaten: (amethyst ;; fine time to chat)

gardens!

[personal profile] verboaten 2024-02-15 03:46 am (UTC)(link)
[the friendly face alfyn greets happens to be that of a particular pirate. is eizen actually friendly? eh, depends who you ask. right now, it definitely falls more on the friendly side. it helps that the gardens really are breathtaking and there's no threat. hilarious that he would ever think a place with dragons would count as not having threats but here we are.

eizen briefly regards this guy and the little dragon next to him before responding.]


Eizen.

[he then goes back to glancing around the garden.]

I've been here a fair bit at this point. That said, I haven't had much of chance to study up on the plants to the area past being able to tell you some of the basics.

[...which is still more than most people would know. it's more the finer details that, alas, aren't his forte such as specific species names, the details about all their properties, best seasonal growth and such.]
apothecarry: (aww shucks)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-16 04:51 pm (UTC)(link)
[This fella just feels a little imposing - the way Olberic feels when he first walks into a room. Is he, maybe, also a big softie? It won't matter either way to Alfyn, but it'd be a nice coincidence.]

Even the basics'll be a sight better than what I know now! Some of these look similar to plants I use all the time back home, but I can't just pretend they'll work the same.

[Very gently, he touches the spiny leaves of a vibrantly green plant with purple stems.]

And some of 'em don't look like anything I've ever seen before. Oh! I'm an apothecary, is why I'm interested. I'd hope this doesn't happen any time soon, but if my stock of medicines runs out one day, I need to know what I can replace it with.
verboaten: (amethyst ;; that so?)

[personal profile] verboaten 2024-02-22 01:22 am (UTC)(link)
[an apothecary, huh? eizen gives a nod at the response. no wonder this guy wants to learn about the local plantlife and its properties. with how often shit hits the fan here, learning about that sooner rather than later is definitely the right call.]

You never know when you'll burn through those reserves so stocking up beats running out.

[his gaze shifts over from alfyn and to the plant being handled.]

That one I don't remember the name of off the top of my head, but what I do remember is that it's decent for reducing inflammation.
apothecarry: (break into a smile)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-22 02:19 am (UTC)(link)
Really?

[Alfyn beams, and nods to the plant respectfully.]

That'd be a good one to have on hand, then. [The smile turns ever so slightly grim, and gains a helpless shrug.] But this sure isn't my garden. I'm not planning on stealing from it.

[He may be good with a knife, but not in the way of thieves. Growing like a weed the way he did only increased his natural clumsiness, and he's. Loud. Usually. All that to say his ability to be stealthy is shamefully lacking, as a good friend of his once summarized.]

But I'd love to know who I might talk to about coming back some time?
verboaten: (amethyst ;; fine time to chat)

[personal profile] verboaten 2024-02-24 10:44 pm (UTC)(link)
[stealing a plant? eizen quirks a brow. he guesses it would technically fall under that criteria of theft, but not many people would consider picking a plant theft. then again, his own opinion might be skewed due to the crowd he keeps with. none of them would bat an eye at a larger scale theft let alone something this small, eizen included.]

Pretty sure that those overgrown geckos are the ones you might want to ask.

[overgrown gecko referring to the dragons all around here.]

Everything in this place seems to be tied back to them.

[some of them were even growing flowers out of people's hair, so it stands to reason that these gardens are part of their handiwork, too.]

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afflatusexarch: (( ew ) g44)

swamp

[personal profile] afflatusexarch 2024-02-17 01:26 am (UTC)(link)
[ You know he had been focused on the sounds of struggling. That's what had drawn G'raha near. Ultimately, he thinks that someone might be in need of assistance. Anyone would think that way, yes? He fully intends to provide support either through healing or other means.

But the moment that he pushes through the foliage, he sees a creature coming right at him. Doesn't even register what it is, only that it is coming straight at him.

It's situations like these that they shouldn't have gotten rid of Fluid Aura At least G'raha doesn't hesitate - weaving a shield from aether and smacking the snake back. ]


A touch too close for my liking.
apothecarry: (even alfyn can smolder)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-17 02:33 am (UTC)(link)
[Yikes! It almost got that fella. Alfyn spots (and recognizes) a shield of light magic and feels some relief over it. Whoever it is can protect himself! A good sign. But for how long?

The snake takes deep offense to being repelled like that; Alfyn lunges before it can strike again, getting a hit in with his axe that sinks past the shining scales.

Naturally, he's sort of stuck now - unless he wants to release his weapon and fight without it until the snake goes down, or he does.]


There's a dragon nest! [Since he's the distraction, the other person ought to get the right information.] Behind me, over there - I'm tryin' to protect the eggs!

[The snakes begin a group effort to wrap around and constrict Alfyn, who is now doing his best to avoid that without giving up on getting the axe back-!]
afflatusexarch: (( ew ) g35)

[personal profile] afflatusexarch 2024-02-19 03:16 am (UTC)(link)
[ He can protect himself quite well for a while! Maybe it's Alfyn that needs to worry. Because from where G'raha is standing, it looks like the man can't get that axe out of the snake.

Well that's just not going to do either. ]


Yes, I realize. Just hold still!

[ Because if there is anything that reptiles will hate? It's ice. So away goes the shield out out comes the staff to cast a blizzard spell. ]
apothecarry: (this could be serious)

[personal profile] apothecarry 2024-02-22 02:23 am (UTC)(link)
[Oh, he sounds real stressed and serious. That's fair of him, because this is serious, and maybe this fella's also afraid of snakes.]

You got it.

[Standing still, as ordered! It means one of the little(r) ones gets a good beginning wrap around his left leg, though, and Alfyn still won't let go of the axe. This helps, anyway - it keeps the biggest snake from jerking away too far.

Alfyn recognizes a staff as the primary tool of someone very good at magic; he's also been grazed by Cyrus's powerful spells before! Not knowing what might come next, he's suddenly keeping very still indeed, his eyes fixed on that staff in case he finds out he needs to dodge instead.]

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