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Welcome to the Test Drive Meme for

escordvi! Anyone can participate in the test drive, regardless of invite eligibility. Just keep in mind that only those who have secured invites from players or mods can actually reserve on October 25th and apply on November 1st. Our EMP/ATP can be found here. We do require TDM threads for samples for our application, but toplevels are not required. Tagging out is fine!

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 October 31)

GETTING STARTED

This section can be timed for any time after October 13 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.

🚪 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.

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

The Ghoul's Moon Festival is founded on an ancient tradition where in late October when the moon turns red, so red that it makes the ocean waters look as if it is filled with blood, undead and ghostly creatures go on a rampage and attack the living. Festivals were found to appease the angered spirits, and while such attacks haven't been seen in centuries, the festival remains. Thus throughout the month, Eltrut has been hard at work in getting the main port town, Shellton, and leviathan ready. On October 25th, when the sun sets, and the full blood red moon rises in the night sky, the giant leviathan will shake a little before revealing its festive form. Eltrut's entire shell will be a pumpkin which can later be "harvested" to help return it to normal, but that's for later. For now, the leviathan is in happy spirits and will crane its neck on occasion to watch everyone.

Although not required, costumes are available for anyone who may want to join in on the fun, along with silly prank weapons. Most of the festivities will be found starting from the docks up to the main plaza and down some side streets where various booths and stalls have been set up. From traditional booth games like candy ring toss, darts, water gun targets to more unique games such as bobbing for apple skulls, mask decoration, and catching the anglerfish.

👻 Ghost Piñatas. In a designated square, there is a game where cardboard ghosts are filled with candy and small toys, and with blindfolds and plastic mallets, the "ghost hunters" must run around and try to hit the ghost with the aid of people directing. Someone else is controlling the ghost with magic, moving it around to up the difficulty. It's meant for fun, but some people are messing around. Those not helping out or participating should stop them!
🛢️ Build-A-Barrel Boat. Out by the docks, a special "boat" competition is being held. Decorate a special barrel tubs large enough to fit two people into the spookiest "boat" possible. Afterwards, they must put it in the water and try to "race" against others to the finish line with oars. Don't worry, there are people waiting to help fish them out should their boat sink.
😜 Pranked. It's up to the Corsairs to try and throw their best pranks on unsuspecting festival goers. But there are of course those who are trying to prank them, so it's a bit chaotic out there, with unwitting victims getting caught in the crossfire.

Along with the usual street foods like paella, taiyaki, or khachapuri, there are plenty of special offerings for the holiday:

🥮 Moon Cakes. With a shiny red crust, these special cakes will make one's skin shine red like the Ghoul's Moon itself.
🍡 Fruit and Pumpkin Skewers. Skewers of fresh fruit and pumpkin glazed in hard red candy or dusted with chili powder will have that bit of spice that will give one a more energetic temper than usual.
🥐 Skull Buns. Sweet bread buns topped with skulls and crossbones that will sometimes make someone break into dance.
🦑 Hornswaggle's Vengeance. Hornswaggle has returned, upgrading their ghost pepper squid stir-fry with ghoul peppers, guaranteed to make you breathe actual flames!
🍬 Sour Candy. There are reports of candy making people sick and the Paladins are in charge of the investigation. Unfortunately, descriptions of the suspects are completely random with many innocent people becoming accused. In the meantime, replacing the candy is a high priority, and anyone can assist the Paladins trying to find and replace the ruined candy.

After the harrowing events with the Ghost Ship, on the night of October 31st, everyone will gather to witness the special fireworks display. The original crew even managed to adjust the performance to include a brief rendition of the battle against the undead, as well as something to honor Eltrut and Naughtilust for their brave efforts to help defend.

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

On the evening of the 30th, the Naughtilust will steadily make its way over towards Eltrut and stop within ferryboat distance of Shellton. The two leviathans will greet each other with friendly accord, the Naughtilust presenting its friend with a large floating shell filled with delicious treats for it to enjoy. All the shops, taverns, inns, brothels, and all entertainment services will be open all night long, and while the main target audience are adults, they do provide some "safe," family friendly entertainment for the younger crowd. Special dancers, musicians, and other entertainers line the streets on the Naughtilust to provide all kinds of delight.

However, the main highlight is the grand masquerade which is held at the Helice Palace, one of the largest and grandest buildings on the leviathan. As its name suggests, it is designed to fit the image of royalty, with large gardens, multiple ballrooms, grand halls, private and public terraces, and enough rooms to house any guest who may wish to spend the night (with a partner). Normally one would have to pay a hefty fee, but for the Ghoul's Moon, the sirens are opening it up for one grand fee of attending the masquerade and dressing one's best. They will even provide gowns, suits, and masks for those who need them. The masquerade itself is open to all, young and old, however what happens beyond the ballroom may require some adult supervision.

It's still the Naughtilust, after all.

Set in one of the largest ballrooms, guests are ushered in with the sound of a orchestra playing classical music, though some may notice more "modern" songs adapted to the classic style. For those who may want a little more privacy, there are several small terraces and balconies that can be used. Just be sure to lower the curtains and lock the doors if they want true privacy.

🕶 Blind Dancing. The sirens will randomly cast an enchantment on various people's masks to make them unable to see. They will then be forcibly paired with another "blinded" partner and only after the dance will the enchantment wear off. During this time, the pair will feel very friendly towards each other. Perhaps even attracted…?
💎 Gems. The sirens will also randomly stick special gems that will increase that particular personality trait of the wearer: white = coy; blue = wistful; green = jealousy; pink = flirty; red = lustful; purple = friendly; yellow = bold; orange = mischievous. The strength of the effect varies and multiple can be applied at once.
🥂 Refreshments. For those feeling peckish, long cream-filled doughnuts and oysters in the half shell line the buffet tables, along with indulgent foods like chocolate-covered bacon and deep-fried duck eggs drizzled with tamarind sauce—all of which will cause anyone who eats them to feel a bit more flirtatious. There is a variety of cocktails, but the champagne may also make one feel a bit more "bubbly."

Outside in the gardens, many can take a romantic stroll under the blood red moon. The gardens boast a number of different flora, small hedge mazes, gazebos, and fine statues for those to enjoy. There are also many shaded corners and little hideaways that couples can hide in should they wish to enjoy something else.

💐 Flower Arrangements. Out in one of the courtyards, there are several tables set up for anyone to make their own special bouquet of flowers. Unfortunately, some of the flowers have been changed to have special pollen that upon inhaling will induce unintended effects: sleepiness, amorous, giggly, boisterous, etc. The strength of the effect can vary and fortunately will only last for up to ten minutes. Multiple effects can take place at once and will "refresh" with every sniff.
🏮 Firefly Lanterns. The gardens are filled with special fireflies whose light can ward off malicious spirits and ghouls. Guests are welcome to try and catch a few to create their own paper lanterns and decorate them for the holiday. The fireflies are quick and hard to catch, but a little song (even humming) may lull them to be still.
🍷 Fountain Bump. Further out in the gardens at the Fontana Del Vino, red wine is pouring out and a few…bold guests have started a game where one must stand at the top of the statue and try to "bump" each other off using vigorous hip checks. Fortunately the height isn't too far and the fountain deep enough for those who fall through…just hope someone is sober enough to pull them out.

Even after the events of the Ghost Ship, the Naughtilust will remain so that the masquerade can be held again on the following night. The terraces will provide a great view of the fireworks.

GHOST SHIP

Late night on the 30th, when the clock strikes midnight to turn to October 31st, the blood red moon will seem to glow and a thick fog will suddenly roll in, a large, ghastly looking ship appearing in the distance. By this time, many may have started to turn if they are not still up partying. Regardless, everyone will get a rude awakening when screams fill the docks as all manner of undead climb up onto the piers and shores of Eltrut—ghosts, ghouls, zombies, skeletons. Realizing that these are the real thing and not drunk sailors in costumes, the call to arms is made, bells ringing and sirens blaring as those who are able rush in to defend.

Eltrut and Naughtilust won't remain still, the two leviathans using their abilities to fend off the undead. Eltrut causes the water to boil around it, temporarily halting further invasion. Naughtilust, meanwhile, will reach out with one of its tentacles and grab the ship, lifting it into the air before slamming it into the ocean. At first it looks as if the two leviathans could handle this on their own, but there's a bright flash of red light from the ship and the two groan in distress, flinching back and both retreating to their shells. Whatever it was, it was enough to inflict enough pain to force them to momentarily retreat.

With the leviathans out, cannons and trebuchets armed with large holy pumpkins are quickly maneuvered to launch long range attacks from both Eltrut and Naughtilust and everyone must fight the undead from the initial wave. Those who have divinity magic will bless everyone and their weapons to deal with the undead. Silver will also be effective, and that includes silverware. Finally, shoving candy in their mouths and playing music will be highly effective in at least stunning the undead, and may even placate the attacker. Perhaps there really is something to the old tales.

Ships with able bodied crew are sent out to approach the ship and find the source that is powering it to destroy it.

The large galleon was damaged and lodged in a reef from Naughtilust's attack, but despite the notable damage their ghostly cannons still fire and the ship shows no signs of sinking. There are several levels below deck, and undead sailors and monsters fill the ship. The strange red light will pulse periodically from the bottom, indicating they need to fight through to get to it.

🪓 Axing Skeletons. On the main deck, giant skeletons wielding large axes will be stationed to defend against those boarding the ship. With a wide sweep of their ax, they can cut through anything in their way—including their own. But their large size does hinder their movements, and a well aimed attack to their shins can knock them down.
🎃 Pumpkin Bombs. Watch out for these monsters! Appearing like large pumpkins, these monsters will grow in size the longer they are agitated until their eyes burst into flames, the only warning before they explode in hot pumpkin chunks to cause significant damage. Destroy them before they burst.
🎯 Traps. Besides the questionable integrity of the ship itself, there are many traps that can be triggered by one wrong step or misplaced hand. Trap doors, revolving walls, giant cobwebs with ghoulish spiders, living chains attempting to bind victims, locked rooms with shrinking walls.

Hidden deep within the hull of the ship is the relic that unleashed the devastating attack and empowered the undead. It's a very large black tombstone with unreadable script and symbols carved into it and what looks like fresh blood poured into each groove. So large it reaches the ceiling. Perhaps the more academic inclined will want to take some pictures before smashing it, and it will take a number of people to physically destroy it. But it won't be easy as undead sailors will rush in to defend it.

When dawn breaks, the ghost ship will have been destroyed and fade away into the sun. Any remaining undead will also burn away and disappear. Although things are a bit of a mess and many injuries sustained, with the victory bolstering spirits, most things are repaired and salvaged for the final night of the Ghoul's Moon festival. The festival will go on, as will the fireworks.

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.

Corpse-a-Corps

Eltrut Island

A man is trying to create a walking living man out of dead body parts. He is convinced that he can bring the creature to life using a powerful lightning bolt of some kind. Because of this he has been stealing body parts from local graves.

Find this man and stop him before he can create his abomination. And burn down his controversial laboratory before anyone else can get a hold of these wild ideas. Help put the families and loved ones at ease by returning their lost ones and their parts to their graves, proper.

Hungry-la Island

???

A very curious type of tree has recently been discovered on a small walkable island. It seems to be trees that have the ability to magically grow fried chicken legs that hang like pears or apples. And some look like they’re decorated with fully cooked honey-glazed hams. The bark looks curiously like crispy bacon and the leaves like perfectly tenderized pork tenderloins. That’s right, it’s growing meat. Somehow. And boy, does it look delicious.

Since this is a new discovery no one knows if any of these trees are actually delicious or not. Care to try a bite or two? After a long voyage at sea with only lemons and oranges it might be a treat to have some savory things to eat instead.

Guileful Grimalkin

All Islands

Strange black creatures have appeared and are sneaking around various ports to steal people’s wallets and valuables. When they’re confronted or caught they seem to emit high pitched screeches and will scratch and bite and do whatever they can to escape!

Keep your wallet and shiny things secure and catch any of these little demons before they cause too much ruckus!

Conch Shells Stories

All Islands

Pretty conch shells have been washing up on various shores all over the islands. When they are held up to your ear they seem to whisper stories from someone far, far away.

These stories can be from people from your own home worlds, or they can be stories from long-lost friends, loved ones or even the deceased. These magical conch shells will repeat the same story if listened to again. Sometimes it's nice to carry old memories…

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Incoming:

Stormbringer i
[ There's a splash of water down through a corridor--it could be near the living quarters or somewhere near the kitchen; at least whatever magic spirited him away to this place left him somewhere that would be frequented! Sort of. That was about the only fortunate part of his arrival.

There was a squawk, then a cut-off grunt, as said magic had jammed him through one of the port-holes.

This is extremely unfortunate because Lea has hips and a small little waist, and he's having an extremely hard time getting the torque needed to pull himself out of the porthole when the lower half of his body was just sort of hanging out of a window and there was nothing to get purchase on.

While Lea wasn't one to let out undignified calls for help, anyone nearby could hear some frustrated grunting and grumbling, and a straining voice. ]

Oh come on! It was just a prank..!! Why'd he send--

Ugh--Why is this even here??

[ Feel free to pull him free or stop and laugh at him. Maybe both. ]

Eltrut:

Wildcard
[ Lea will be out and about the city, so citizens may see a tall slender redhead clad in a black leather cloak. Aside from the rather shady looking manner of dress and wild red spikes, he seems...sketchy. His features are wildly vulpine, especially with those odd upside-down triangle tattoos on his cheek. Even while he seems to be minding his own business with an armful of parcels tucked against his chest, and some fried sweet treat or another hanging out of his mouth, he seems like he might be scheming something.

He also looks to be sort of in his own little world, though, mostly taking the place in.

It's also possible to bump into said redhead leaning over a chunky looking, brightly colored smartphone that he's got sitting on his lap or on a tabletop next to the standard-issue shellphone. It's anyone's guess what he could be doing with them! At some point while fiddling with the two phones, though, he's going to just sigh and put his cheek in the palm of his hand.

Feel free to bump into Lea in any manner of way you please, prank him, or pull him into anything you like. I'm extremely open to ideas. ]

Skewers i.
[ Perhaps he was waiting to meet someone here, or perhaps he wandered here on his own just to investigate and try to settle into this place--since he seemed stuck here and all--but either way, Lea was finally partaking moreso in the local festivities, including trying some delicious snacks from the vendors.

Among them had been a pumpkin skewer or two.

What might have started as an innocent carnival game was quickly turning into a grandstanding redhead. Knock down the tower of bottles to get a prize? Lea had started off by challenging someone beside him to a friendly competition, but from there it maybe escalated into Lea making a show of spinning a Chakram around his finger, inviting any passer-bys to see if they could knock more bottle-towers down than him in a time limit. ]

Skewers ii.
[ Was there a ghost pinata floating near him? Was there someone coming along with a bat? There was maybe a gentle flicker of flame to whirl the ghost around their head, and there was maybe an Lea resting his forearm on that blindfolded person's shoulder, cooing with taunts at them. Not like being right there by the person's ear put him in any danger or anything, of course not!! (that's just a lie his sugar-addled brain was telling him) ]

Skewers iii.
[ He had energy to burn, and while he wasn't the sort to pick fights for the sheer delight of it, walking into a rowdy pub of revelry wasn't exactly starting any kind of fights or competitions! He was just. Joining in! Besides, despite how things were going, he did still miss the camaraderie of mischief between himself, Luxord, and Xigbar. Maybe he wanted to be a little nostalgic, and a hyperactive brain couldn't find any reason he shouldn't partake.

Sugar and alcohol made for a dubious mix, and with Axel's frame, he wasn't one who could exactly knock it back and brush it off. He metabolized it quickly though, so he went through intermittent phases of being really tipsy and less tipsy, so anyone passing by him might get pulled in with an arm around their shoulders and an invitation to have a bite of the grilled chicken skewers he just ordered and picked up from the bar! Or they could have a red-faced redhead lean against them and ask if they'd like to play a game. Or better yet, Axel was sliding them a drink with a wink and wagering he could finish the glass first. ]

Skewers iv.
[ While walking into a lively bar wasn't causing trouble, inevitably, tempers would flare and something could happen.

It could've been because Axel bumped into someone and spilled a drink all over himself and whomever else. Should he do so, there would be a quick, surprised expression over his face and a hurried flurry of hearty laughs and apologies.

On the other hand, a few other people could've started a fight that had nothing to do with Lea, but someone threw a tray that sent his pint flying across the room shortly before throwing a person near him. He'd dive out of the way, but unfortunately, he was still pinned under whomever and had to shove them off with a bark. ]

Sour Candy i.
[ Nearer the middle of the month, Lea had actually been lending a hand with replacing candy that had gone missing or was otherwise pulled for fear of being among the candies that made people sick.

He figured he should make himself more helpful while he was here--it was probably what Sora, Kairi, or Riku would encourage him to do, anyway--and was dumping an armful of candy into the community pot when a couple of uniformed men put their hands on their shoulders. ]

What--Man, is this the thanks I get for helping out around here? Talk about a warm welcome.

For once, it ain't me--here. Test a piece.

[ One was trying to grab him by the wrists for questioning, but Lea was a slippery person when he wanted to be. He was quick with his hands and plucked a couple of pieces up. One to unwrap and toss in his own mouth, and another to offer to the suited Paladin. ]

Naughtilust:

Wildcard
[ The dance was a sweet gesture, really.

He cleaned up well. Lea had a face that suited the glimmer of matte black and faux gold trimmings. The coif of lace around delicate Venetian styled baroque whirls painted in white nacre. He was a figure of grace that carried a certain pride, lent to him by the mane of vibrant red around the frame of his mask, but he preferred not to partake in this festivity.

It was something intimate, despite how pockets of raucous laughter or merriment could bubble up.

He hadn't particularly wanted to come, either. Something about it just didn't sit well in the bottom of his chest. Something about hidden faces, anxiety of places he should be instead, and a pang of loneliness that ached in the back of his head.

But everyone was here, so there wasn't much point in not attending. He'd just be even more miserable by himself.

For the majority of the night, he made attempts to socialize, but somehow found himself, instead, wandering out to the gardens for fresh air.

Feel free to bump into or pester Lea at any point in the night by any means imaginable; this is just a brief overlay of his goings-on for the night. ]

Firework i.
[ The Sirens didn't seem too keen on Lea's attitude. Tonight was a night of merriment, not one to be drowned in nostalgia.

One in particular pulled him onto the dancefloor, eliciting a confused grunt that bubbled from his chest. Lea picked up pace and fell into rhythm easily, but once they were on the floor, he blinked and she was gone. He blinked again, and he couldn't see at all. He tried to rub at his eyes underneath his mask, but it didn't seem to work, and what's more, someone had been shoved into his arms.

He let out a soft grunt, but fumbled. Upon nudging their arms with his hands, he slid them along his new partner's forearms until he could clasp their hands in his. ]

Thanks for the dance, but it's a little difficult when I can't see.

[ He spoke smoothly and with a hint of play in his voice, though there was still something firm in it that wasn't a question of whether or not he should get his vision back.

Should the person dancing with Lea know Reno, they might mistake one for the other by voice alone. ]

Let him go. He's not lying.

[ So says a blonde that's not dressed for the occasion at all. Cloud still prefers to wear black and two of his Fusion Swords remain holstered, but on display all the same. Now he might look like someone that is about ready to get rough with the Paladins if they aren't going to listen but -

There are kids flanking him on both sides. One is clutched to one of Cloud's pantlegs. The other is trying to look as tough as Cloud. ]

I've been watching him for the last hour.

[ Another voice coming from the crowd catches the attention of all three individuals. Lea, whom had kept one hand prone in the air to show deference, took the opportunity afforded by this newcomer to put a little more space between him and these guards. The other still just sort of held the candy out to them, knowing better than to retract the offer--especially now that someone was willing to vouch for him.

He raised a brow, but went with it, shrugging at the two guards. ]

See? C'mon, you heard him. Look, I got the receipts on me from the pickup.

[ A mite shocking that the blonde looked so familiar, but so foreign all at once. He also maybe took a peek down at the kid, and gave them a sheepish, toothy sort of grin and bubble of a chuckle.

The guards chimed in, pausing only now that Lea had corroboration, to finally ask if this was true, and to see the papers. ]

Oh--yeah, yeah. Here...look. Signed and everything.

[ After handing over the papers and being dismissed with a few disgruntled huffs, Axel held the rest of the bag in the crook of his elbow, and put the other hand on his hip. ]

Thanks for the backup, I thought they were gonna cuff me and everything. But really? An hour?

[ And it's not like the people don't know his face by now. It's only been something like a month, but Cloud has been working a lot through different jobs available. So it's no surprise, to him, that these other Paladins just double check the information provided and then see fit to let this weirdo go.

Even if the way this one speaks has Cloud squinting. Just a little. And maybe slightly on edge.

Even the kids at Cloud's side are nodding, as if to agree with their "babysitter." ]

Some Corsairs have been playing pranks on people. Might want to talk to some of those victims.

[ He's going to hold out his hand though the moment that people depart. Yes, Cloud is asking for some of that candy. No, it's not for him. ]

Been with the kids. Saw you walking around. That's all.

[ He straightened up his back and stood moreso upright, shifting his center of gravity a little bit.

It made him raise a brow and cock his head a little bit with some kind of faint grin. It was mostly lopsided and maybe a little bemused, but whatever had been there melted back into something a little more vulpine and easy. ]

Fair enough. Pretty hard to miss me with a mane like this.

[ He glanced down at the offered hand. Oh. There were kiddos attached to this guy. Probably wanted candy. Right sure. He shifted the bag a bit to fish around safely inside without spilling the contents, and gave him a handful. ]

So, blondie. What do I call you?

My name's Lea. Got it memorized?

[ With his hand now empty, Lea tapped at one of his temples while stating his name. ]

[ Cloud scoffs. This guy is... Very animated. It's the sort of person that can be a little annoying to deal with. Way too amused and there's really nothing to be amused about. At least nothing that Cloud can see right away. ]

You'd be surprised how ordinary it is.

[ There are so many people here with unique hairstyles. Someone ~~else with Zack's~~ having such a "wild mane" isn't anything special.

At the same time he isn't going to judge too harshly. Lea seems to be giving the kids candy. ]

Cloud.

Are you kiddin' me? I know a guy with fire for hair. When it comes to style, no one's got this redhead beat.

[ A friendly, toothy grin down at the kid, and he hefted the bag back in place with hands on either of his hips. Afterwards, he gave Cloud a thoughtful tilt of his head. ]

Yeah? Oh well..you remind me of a guy I knew. Guess you just got that kind of face.

Nice meetin' you, Cloud. So, think you could give me a hand delivering this candy? I don't wanna get stopped again, and those guys seem to like you.

Sure, if you say so.

[ Cloud just kind of waves the guy off. There's no point in getting into that sort of argument. He only looks up because this man had stated something like - you kind of look like a guy.

...Yeah that's not really a thing he wants to hear. The last time he reminded someone of another, it. It had really messed things up. ]

Maybe I do.

[ But one of the kids is still attached to him, yes. Kind of clinging to Cloud. The blonde ruffles the kid's hair. ]

Guess I can help you out again. Suppose you'll owe me two.

Edited 2023-10-19 01:19 (UTC)

[ To be fair, with those blue eyes and blond spikes, he did remind Lea of Roxas and Ventus a little. But also--well. Maybe a guy he met back in The Coliseum as well, but who could say? This guy didn't exactly have a wing coming out of him.

His brows raised and he let out a little choked sound, followed by a sigh. ]

But I didn't even ask for help the first time!

[ He let out an exasperated sigh and rubbed the back of his head. ].

Talk about highway robbery--alright, sooo..this one's going up to some big city hall? Never been to this place, so no idea where that's at.

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makoglow - 2023-10-21 17:25 (UTC) - Expand

[Roxas has mostly been keeping to himself during the festivities. It's a lot, in a lot of different ways. Not knowing where to start or what to do, he feels a little lost.

For the moment he's found a place to people watch, but he isn't watch very closely, instead lost in his own thoughts. At least until he sees a familiar figure cross his vision. And he has to do a double take. Because, it can't be. But he'd know that hair anywhere.

And then he's off, pushing his way through the crowd.]

AXEL!

[ It hadn't been long ago that he'd found himself waking up in Hollow Bastion, met with Yen Sid and the King, then got spirited away with Kairi and Merlin in the wake of an oncoming threat.

He thought maybe this had been part of Merlin's punishment for a prank he'd let Kairi talk him into, but to be stuck here...so long? It had been a week by now. Precious time had been slipping away, and he found no corridors could take him out of this place, either.

There was a lot on both of their minds, and Lea did his best to keep himself busy. Busy fitting in, busy keeping up with his own training, busy trying not to overthink everything-- ]

Huh?

[ Someone just. Yelled out a name he hadn't exactly given anyone. It shook him from his thoughts, made his shoulders square and brows perk up to attention, because the voice wasn't exactly hostile, either. Strange as it was. ]

What--? Nah...

[ He'd paused to scan the crowd, rubbing the back of his head as he considered the possibility. His expression screwed into something dismissive, and he was more or less about to turn away when a grunt and stumble from a pedestrian gave way to a very particular blond. For a moment, he stood there, owl-eyed and uncertain. He knew he didn't have the right to make the first move. Not with everything he'd done before and how they'd hurt Roxas.

But with a quick blink and little shake of his head, his brows raised. ]

Roxas?

[ He wanted so bad to scoop this kid up in a hug and just--for everything to be okay but how--?

Still, he put a hand to his forehead, and for all his anxiety-addled guilt, he couldn't help but crack a stupidly excited grin to see Roxas as his own damn person! ]

Roxas!

[ It came out on a relieved laugh and he dropped the parcels on a nearby bench. ]

Roxas, how are you--when did!??

[Roxas has been here for about a month and some change. And while it hasn't been terrible, it's been frustrating. Because ending up in a weird pirate town on a new adventure when you'd barely had time to start living your life after your last one is something. To say nothing about Roxas's worry over Sora and all of that.

He'd just reunited with Lea and Xion, and it wasn't fair that he didn't get more time. Or that that time was put on hold.

But that's changed now. Because Lea is here. And it still feels really good to hear his best friend call his name.

It's probably good that Lea put down the packages because Roxas is just going to barrel into him.]

I've been here, like, a month! When did you get here?

[ See now this hadn't been what he was expecting when he set the parcels down. He was just making sure he didn't drop anything because he was just stupidly excited and feeling way too many things at once. It was still something he was adjusting to. But instead of making a little space for himself, there was suddenly a little blond brat in his arms, hugging him tight.

His hands hovered in the air for a second, and he just sort of blinked. There had been a confused grunt when the air was knocked from him a little--but how could he expect anything different? He shared a heart with Sora, after all. And Kairi had kept reassuring him--

Sorry but Roxas is gonna have to deal with an overwhelmed Lea again. When finally he wrapped his arms around Roxas to hug him back, maybe burying his face a little in all those blond spikes with dumb, awkward and happy laughter, he was crying again a little. Also get wrekt because Lea was tall enough to lift ~~shrimpy~~ Roxas off the ground a little bit before plopping him back down on his feet. And, oh man, Lea was wiping his face on his sleeve. He was trying to play it a LITTLE cool, so he sniffed and couldn't help but laugh with relief again as he spoke. ]

THIS is where you've been hiding out? A whole month?

Where even IS here? I thought Merlin just stuck me here for some kinda--wait! Roxas, you're not gonna believe this.

[ He had the familiar tattoos under his eyes again, though in the moment, he sort of forgot about everything else, and with a big toothy grin, he took a little half step back and focused. Like he was REALLY focusing here. After maybe fifteen seconds of nothing, his keyblade was finally summoned to his hands. ]

Well, it's not like I asked to be here! I just ended up here.

[And while here hasn't been so bad, he's made new friends after all, it just hasn't been home. It hasn't been where he's wanted to be. So, if it's a little weird that Lea is getting so emotional, it doesn't quite clue Roxas in. Because really, he's just as glad to see Lea.

Now all they need is Xion and they'll be complete again.

So when Lea summons his keyblade, Roxas looks a little confused.]

I...I know. You've shown me that like, every day! I mean, it's still cool.

Uh....anyway, this town is called Eltrut.

[ All they need is who? Sorry, Lea can't remember the name or face.

Once Roxas replies, he cocked his head back and raised a brow, his own face screwing up a little bit with confusion. The math wasn't exactly adding up here, and..he wasn't mad? ]

I. What?

Rox, I haven't seen you since--

[ His brows knitted, and something about his shoulders seemed smaller. But! He bounced back quick!! ]

Okay, kiddo. Let's put a pin in the 'where are we' part cause I didn't even know you and Sora separated. I've been stuck with Merlin and Kairi, how'd I tell you I got an invitation to the keyblade club?

Edited 2023-10-16 04:23 (UTC)

[The confusion is evident on Roxas's face as well, but then, he's never been the best at hiding his emotions. But, vaguely he remembers Sorey saying something about this on the network. Things about different times. He wishes he'd read that posting more carefully. But when it was just him, it was hard to imagine.

He takes a breath. He can work through this. It's all good, isn't it? Things worked out.]

Uh, yeah...I kinda found out while everyone was fighting Xehanort. It's a little complicated, but I was able to do it with Sora's help.

We should probably sit down if we're gonna have this conversation. But you're...good with knowing, right?

[ His brows went up again, and a concerned sort of surprise was on his face as his body language perked up. ]

Wait, who fought Xehanort?

Man, I knew we were planning on it, but we still had a lot to do.

[ His wrist rolled through the air, ever talking with his hands as he spoke, but once again, his hands went on his hips as he looked down at Roxas. ]

I mean--cat's out of the bag anyway, but yeah, I guess I am.

[ He rubbed the back of his neck and looked up and down the street as his voice comfortably drawled, not really sure what to say. He was mostly just glad Roxas wasn't angry with him, even if that felt...weird. ]

We can grab some lunch and talk about it at this little place a few blocks over, it's quieter there. I was just picking up some new clothes anyway.

[ After picking up his parcel again(and holding it up a bit to gesture at it when he mentioned what he'd been doing), he let out a little huff of a sigh through his nose and smiled, reaching with one hand to plant his hand on top of Roxas' head and ruffle his hair. Just to be a little mean. He maybe felt bad for ruining the happy reunion moment. ]

Don't worry too much about it or your face is gonna get stuck like that. I'm pretty sure I can handle whatever it is you're gonna throw at me.

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seasaltkeys - 2023-10-19 02:32 (UTC) - Expand

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luxilviiignis - 2023-10-19 09:53 (UTC) - Expand

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seasaltkeys - 2023-10-22 17:13 (UTC) - Expand

sorry for taking so long

luxilviiignis - 2023-10-31 06:58 (UTC) - Expand

It's cool, I've been busy to

seasaltkeys - 2023-11-02 03:08 (UTC) - Expand

ADHD brain also go brr when i try to sit and focus on things

luxilviiignis - 2023-11-09 02:28 (UTC) - Expand

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seasaltkeys - 2023-11-10 04:23 (UTC) - Expand

[ As entertaining as it is to watch Axel lose his temper, and really considering he's off in the corner somewhere out of the way, he's also a bit of a hothead. Demyx knows this in the most endearing way.

At the first sign of fire he'll find himself doused with chilly water.

He'll just snicker softly into his hand because what are the odds that he's going to figure out it's specifically Demyx behind it when he's lost in a strange world and they haven't met yet? ]

((Lemme know if that's not alright! Happy to come up with something else.))

(( no no it's perfect you don't have to change anything. ))

[ Overt antagonism just wasn't his style. In fact, he'd been laughing all too easily along with the others at his own triumph over the round of cards with a complete flop for a hand, but a mean bluffing game. He was pulling the pot in with an impish grin, and for a moment, he didn't have to worry about Xehanort or his training--he could just kill time again like he used to, even if the faces were a little different.

The sore loser had lost his temper, accused Lea of cheating. A more sensible Lea would've defused the situation rather easily, but a buzzed-and-sugar-addled brain instead decided to rub a little salt in their wound for accusing him of stooping that low for some rando.

Others at the table were either watching with anticipation, or taking one side or another on the matter as it escalated. Amidst the raucous bickering, the aggressor jumped to their feet, and Lea's fingers sparked with a familiar warmth. He sighed out a warning and was about to get to his feet when, from nowhere, water apparated and dumped itself all over him, leaving his firey mane looking rather. Scrunkly as it instead clung to his head and shoulders.

The table, immediately, went silent and everyone just stared at him. Others nearby who were making way for the commotion also stopped and stared, almost holding their breath as Lea stood there, frozen in place like a statue, processing what had just happened.

The silence finally broke when someone sputtered and just burst out laughing at Lea, whom presently looked very much like a wet cat.

His face just scrunched up in a scowl as laughter broke out across the crowd, and finally Lea moved to throw some of the water off of his arms with a grunt. The scowl on his face was one more of annoyance. That he somehow should've seen this coming, and that this entire situation was stupid. ]

Yeah yeah, laugh it up, I still took the whole pot.

[ He grumbled and griped, but the tension of the moment had completely vanished for everyone except Lea, who was now irritably sulking while taking the random L from water that came out of nowhere. He wrung out his hair and shook his clothes out, but he did still make a show of scooping up all of his winnings in his arms to retreat with what little dignity he had left.

He'd pause just outside the tavern door once he made it outside(winnings now in a paper bag), inspecting the damage and still trying to wring parts of his cloak and hair out. ]

Edited 2023-10-17 05:14 (UTC)

[ Just outside the tavern door, huh? Demyx will move through the tavern and head on his way out when he realizes Axel is busy, blocking his escape route.

He offers, in a playful tone. ] You totally owe me like 30% of that.

[ Demyx grins, if Axel looks at him. ]

[ He hadn't looked up just yet; people coming and going through the front entrance wasn't anything really worth eliciting his attention. That voice, however, was.

Luckily the combination of a quick metabolism and a cold shower sobered him up from the happy little buzz he had going, but he was still going to be more of an active chatterbox. Unfortunately, cold water doesn't help with an impromptu sugar-rush that Lea wasn't expecting.

As it was, he had the teardrop tattoos under his eyes again, so he looked more like his Nobody than himself. But even so, on looking up and confirming that familiar voice did belong to whom he thought it did, his brows perked up and there was an initial grin. ]

Demyx, hey!

[ His words bubbled with a laugh, but after a moment of thoughtful silence, his joy fell short, and the grin on his face turned rightly impish(and maybe a little [harmlessly] vindictive), as he reached out to try and hook Demyx by the neck with the crook of his arm. A friendly gesture of tugging him down to try and rub his knuckles right into that blond scalp. ]

Not a chance! I had those guys eatin' out of the palm of my hand until you turned it into a wash.

[ A noogie is pretty harmless but Demyx yelps all the same. Whatever Demyx's tattoo is, is not visible. He bats at Axel's hand a little harmlessly. ]

I'm not talking about them, I'm talking about the property damage.

[ He snickers a little bit and pulls away, shaking out his robes. ]

You'd lose all that money if you burn the tavern down.

[ He's just messing with him, he doesn't really want it. ]

[Zack has made his way around the dance floor a few times now so he's not that bothered with finding himself pushed into another person for yet another dance. He's been having a great time and he might have had a few drinks along the way so why not dance with one more person?]

Yeah, these masks are pretty magicked up the last time I checked.

[But he sort of has to take a second guess at who he might be dancing with now. Because that voice sounds a lot like a certain redhead he knows. And it might not be the redhead in his arms.]

I didn't think you'd last this long though, man.

[ It really wasn't like Lea to be a wallflower or go wandering off on his own. Socializing was second nature to the redhead.

At least whatever had been on his mind was easily pushed away when he got caught up on the dancefloor. It was pushed away even moreso when the physique of the arm he'd pawed up was wildly different from the petite figure of the pretty little Siren that had pulled him onto the dancefloor. And the voice just made his head cock back and brows raise under the mask.

He couldn't help himself, the cliche novelty of it made him crack a grin, and he was intrigued enough to sink into the moment. ]

Guess they gotta be to hide some of the faces I'm seeing out there. 'Don't think I could miss those a mile away.

[ It's certainly not the redhead he's expecting, but it is a redhead! Unfortunately, both redheads spoke with a mischievous drawl when they wanted to, so cadence wasn't going to be of much help in the situation. ]

You sound an awful lot like you've been watching me. I know how to pace myself is all.

[ He barked with a laugh, moving easily enough with the music. There had been a misstep or two, but once they figured out a lead and pacing, the rest was easy to follow up with. ]

If you're here to challenge me then sorry pal, no dice. Your physique? You'd drink me under the table--unless you think you got moves. Then I might just be inclined.

[ Watch out, Lea's hand is gripping a little tighter and his arm is only just floating now and barely resting where it should be. He's absolutely ready to take the lead and cut the fuck out of some rug. ]

Edited 2023-10-19 10:57 (UTC)

[Zack might indeed be just a tad (a lot) bulkier and taller than a pretty little siren and because of that Zack has no issue with leading the dance. He thinks it's amusing since his dance partner is also pretty tall but lanky in comparison. They make quite the looker as a pair. So, he takes no time in sliding a hand to Lea's waist to take the upper hand in leading before Lea can take action on his words.

Plus, he's thinking he'll be able to hang this over Reno's head for a drunk laugh later. Little does he know.]

I didn't think you'd fold so easily. If it's a challenge you want right here right now then you better keep up.

[He grins wolfishly and lets out a snort of laughter too. He's a big buzzed, so...!]

Didn't they teach you that dancing is a lot like a street fight? Come on, this'll be fun.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

« october: ghoul's moon (test sail) »

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

GHOST SHIP

QUESTS

Lea/Axel | Kingdom Hearts III | Corsair | TDM

Sour Candy

does the saga of ser bullying my redheads continue here?

if you'd give me the other ones too then... it'd never stop :)

Please do not bullie sett with ur bunnyman ):

i would if you give me the opportunity

I hope you know Axel will 1000000% be down to help Reno annoy Cloud any time.

8|

:3 😘

☠️☠️

Eltrut; Wildcard

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Lea is from the beginning of KH III cause I am evil >:)

And Roxas is from the end! Fun times!

okay i finally uploaded my icons. don't mind me while i shake the dust off of axel.

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sorry for taking so long

It's cool, I've been busy to

ADHD brain also go brr when i try to sit and focus on things

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Skewers

oh hi!! :D hell yea more of the gang

Hello there~

How have you been!

Pretty good, how about you?

firework i.

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