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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

[To be thanked by Astarion while the man smiles, it makes his heart flutter pleasantly in his chest, a warm radiating feeling. He hadn't realized he missed the man until he was back, but he finds himself pleased enough to be back in the man's company that all the conflicted emotions about his return seem trivial in comparison.

When he first met the elf, he thought that they would burn fast and then go out, but even with how fast their friendship was borne, it seems to have reached a steady and intense warmth that does not feel like it will fade. While he wishes the other had different circumstances, he also cannot deny the way it has made their souls recognize the other as kindred.

There's no hiding the soft smile that creeps across his features when his friend tucks the hair behind his sensitive ear. The most subtle tilt of his head into that hand. He did not mind Astarion's touch. Indeed, he even welcomed it.]

And I lucky to have met you, to have returned while you were still here. You are a rare and beautiful person, Astarion. [He reaches forward to take Astarion's free hand in his own for the moment, wanting to touch, to feel the pleasant sting of his markings at the other's touch, a pain that reminds him this is real.]

You're going to make me emotional if you keep saying such things.

[ As is he isn't emotional already. As if his heart isn't breaking in a million pieces to be treated so kindly, to hear the words he so often longs to hear, but this time unprompted and so honest. After all this time, it's the kind words that manage to hurt the most, even if the pain is good.

Astarion lets Fenris take his free hand as he keeps touching his ear gently. Worried, at every moment, that he'll simply lose him again.

He doesn't want to fall apart. And certainly not here on the street in front of everyone. He also doesn't want to give Fenris any more guilt than he already has (his prior declarations obviously not actually meant), when he couldn't control any of this.

And so, although some part of him wants to pull him into a kiss, to make this the kind of romantic reunion written about in books, he refrains. Instead, ]

I have some of your things, from before. If you want them back.

I believe I have to do little for our reunion to cause you or myself such emotion.

[He says it with a small curl of his lips, an amusement at both of them and their emotional behavior, but there was a delighted warmth to his cheeks.

Is this what it is like to be reunited with a friend? Would he feel the same burst of anger that would settle into caring touches and words as Astarion did? Or is this unique to them? He would not be surprised if it were the latter.

The touches to his sensitive ear makes him want to kiss Astarion, the elf surely knows what he's doing to him by such touches. But he doesn't. Fenris isn't one for big public displays of affection, more one for the quiet private moments where he feels safe, without eyes on him that could be waiting for a small moment of hesitation, of vulnerability.

So when the offer to get back his things is placed on the table between them, he nods.]

Yes, I would be bereft without my dress. [There is sarcasm there, but it doesn't last long.] Come, lead the way. It would be good to retrieve my items once more, I appreciate you holding on to them in my absence.

[ Astarion laughs at his comment about the dress, his cheeks warming with the memory of when they'd both dressed up. Not embarrassed, just fond. ]

You looked rather attractive in it. It would be a shame for me to hold onto it.

[ luckily for both of them he's got those things in his room on the ship, maybe out of hope that he'd run into Fenris again, but also because it's a long boat ride back to Nogard so this is plot convenience!

Astarion convinced himself to let go of Fenris and then leads on, back to the docks to get his things. ]

You've missed out on some fun fights. Xenk and I killed a horseman with a pumpkin for a head!

[His own cheeks warm at the memory, at the compliment even more, even if only said in jest. There was no embarrassment, just a warmth that suffused the moments they shared.]

Not as much as you in yours.

[He remembers how not seeing his reflection seemed to bother the other man, so if he needed to hear how he had been quite attractive in his own dress, well, Fenris was glad to be his mirror in such a way.

Plot convenance is the best convenance! Who's to say otherwise. Really it's an excuse to get out of public eye really so they can smooch.

Fenris falls into step besides the man, though they do not touch anymore, they brush up together in the narrow streets.]

A pumpkin for a head? Surely it was a mask of sorts and not its' actual head?

[ Astarion smiles for the compliment, glad to hear it. At least he'd gotten plenty of evidence that people had liked how he'd looked dressed up like that. Definitely worth doing again some other time.

In the meantime, it's nice to be so close to Fenris, to feel the reassuring weight of his body next to him, real and whole and here. ]

Oh, no, it was definitely its head. It jumped off and we had to kill it separately. Eventually the whole thing burst into a rain of candy.

[The close proximity is nice, it was reassuring that this was still real, still not a dream that he would wake from. It could be demons, but the surest way to tell if one was being trapped in a fade dream with a demon was to look around and read, but.. well, Fenris could not read.

Still, he looked carefully at a sign as they passed by it, trying to find a word he recognized.]

This place is very strange, sometimes it seems too odd to be real. Instead of bursting into a rain of gore, it gave you candy.

[He reads one very simple word and feels more reassured, shaking his head and looking down.] What other adventures have occupied you?

It certainly was strange! And it really was like cutting through a squash.

[ Definitely the more bizarre thing he's ever stabbed. ]

Let's see....Jarlaxle and I taught some birds on Elah some terribly dirty things in elvish! The paladins were not pleased. This place seems to translate everything anyway, but for those of us from Faerun, it was obvious.

[Okay, that gets Fenris to chuckle, because the idea of some birds swearing at the Paladins is pretty funny, especially Xenk. He's sure there were a few paladins who were bemused and irritated by the situation.

Good.]

It seems as if I missed a good time. [He has yet to meet this Jarlaxle. It makes him wonder how different their elvish is from the other.]

And here I spent my time killing slavers while I traveled further into the viper's nest. Worthy endeavor it may have been, I would have rather spent my time in your company teaching beasts foul words.

Your work is far more commendable. And far more dangerous. I'm glad you don't seem worse for wear.

[ Astarion is still on the fence about being a nice guy, but it suits Fenris. ]

If nothing else, at least the birds were good practice. My elvish isn't as good as it used to be. It's been nice to brush up on it, especially learning it from a drow.

[ Gods it warms his cold dead heart to think of how scandalized high elves would be at the thought! A drow! ]

My capabilities are far less... stunted back home as they are here. I will need a tattoo should I wish to fight at my full strength once again. [His nose wrinkles when he mentions the tattoo. One day he will give in, but for now he refuses.

He remembers learning about Drow, he believe from Astarion himself. They were Elves that lived underground most often.]

Ah, this Jarlaxle is a drow? I've yet to meet him. [He kept to himself more his first time around, didn't get to know many people, perhaps he should rectify that.]

Is it uncommon for an elf and drow to interact in your world?

It's unfortunate that it's the only way to get magic back. I'm lucky I don't have much to speak of.

[ He's got plenty of potential for magic, but stabbing people is just...easier? ]

Yes, he's a drow. Now that you're back, perhaps you'll be able to meet him. He's very talented. [ There's a lot of compliments he could give Jarlaxle, but he imagines that's the one that matters most to Fenris. ] Drow society is...complicated, and not necessarily in any good ways. And high elves think themselves better than everyone else anyway, so it's a bit like oil and fire.

I would not call it magic, merely.. a capability borne into my skin. [About as delicately as he can put it. This was something literally carved into his skin with sickening detail, embedded into his skin without his consent, that took everything from him in a painful twist of fate.

He raises an eyebrow at the talented, but doesn't interrupt.]

Ah, it is like the dalish and city elves then. Dalish believe themselves better than the city elves for a myriad of reasons. They do not take kindly to the other.

Perhaps elves having conflict is simply a universal constant.

[ He remembers some of what Fenris had said about the city elves and the Dalish. But it's all politics from their homes, things that don't matter too much. Not here. Especially when he can hear Fenris dancing around such an important topic. He lets his hand brush against Fenris's gently. ]

You needn't temper your history for me. Unless it is more comfortable for yourself.

I do not believe a need to temper my history, especially with you, merely was attempting to not dampen the mood with my past.

[He lets their hands brush together once more, but it seems the mood is already dampened so he doesn't hold back any longer.]

The lyrium carved into my skin gives me the ability to phase through objects and people. As well as other abilities.

I can imagine it is a complicated question whether to take those powers back.

[ At least Fenris has a choice here. But both of them, back home, had to live with what they were turned into. ]

I do in many ways, but... I do not enjoy the idea of letting another mark upon my body for them. My body is lined with the pain of my making already.

[He considers these lines his now, not something of his former master, he stole them and they were his prize in many ways, but that does not mean he wants them added upon.

Or to be granted other magics he has no desire for. No, he much rather attempt to be without for as long as possible, if entirely.]

I understand.

[ Not as a simple platitude, but because he does. He doesn't have a tattoo, either, even after all the time he's been here.

But at least by now they've made it to the harbor and they're approaching the ship. The ghosts of their past may follow them around, but they don't have final say in everything here. ]

[Fenris knows it's not a platitude, he felt the scars on the man's back that day, felt the many bumps and ridges that made some kind of marking. There is very few others that would understand this as well as Astarion does.

Once again their hands brush, Fenris catching the other's fingers a second before letting go. Something to communicate that he knows.]

Ah, our home away from home.

[Fenris smiles as they walk up gangplank and board the ship.]

[ Astarion squeezes his fingers back in return. Momentarily, of course.]

Welcome home, then.

[ He leads them back to his room. He hasn't done much with it, really, all his stuff is back on Nogard. But there's a book resting on his bed and a chest at the foot of the bed, which he goes to and unlocks. A couple odds and ends in there but he finishes out the things that are Fenris's and he sets them in a nice little pile for him. ]

As promised.

[Fenris follows with a small huff of amusement, because he has no home and knows it, so this boat, the apartment, they were the closest thing to home he has right now, not just here but in Thedas as well. It was curious how quickly a home can be taken from you, both there and here.

Stepping forward, he runs his hand over the silk of the dress, touching the gun he got and a few other odd ends. He hadn't done much in the way of quests, but he hopes to change that this time.]

Thank you. [There's a pause as he looks up at Astarion, the slight height difference there. Green eyes searching red ones and he knows what he wants, stepping closer into the elf's space.] May I kiss you?

I thought you'd never ask.

[ Astarion closes the distance between them, wrapping his arms around Fenris's waist. It's a loose hold, easy enough for the other elf to get out of if he really wanted to, but the intent should be clear--Astarion wants him, too. He missed him as much as he'd already admitted to and more still. ]

[With a smirk, Fenris doesn't waste time closing the distance and finding those lips, kissing them soundly as he places his hand on Astarion's cheek, his other hand on the side of the elf's neck, holding yet tender.

Always he keeps his wits about him keeping track of Astarion's body language, if he is pulling away or stiffens uncomfortably at all. He would not want to be another bad experience upon the elf, but rather something good, pleasurable. A kindness, not a hurt.

So while his lips brush and press, opening to breathe in and delve forward with assuredness, he never loses track of who his partner in this moment is or what he may or may not desire.]

[ Fenris will find that Astarion is more than willing. He opens his mouth easily for him, happy to have him back, and happier still to be able to share in this. But it's more than just lust--there's a touch of desperation, a touch of sadness that lingers just under the surface.

Astarion really has missed Fenris desperately. This is the only way he really knows how to articulate, this is a language he speaks far more fluently than the clumsy words he'd spoken when he'd seen that Fenris was back. ]

[That desperation is met with his own, a desperation to reassure that he was here, that he was real. To have this not be some fade dream that was giving him what he wanted, that Astarion wasn't some desire demon that was feeding on his loneliness, his heart ache.

How could he have forgotten all of this for the week he was gone? How could he have forgotten Astarion, the first he's ever felt a true kinship of the soul with.

He will not admit he had forgotten everything, he wouldn't want to burden his friend with such knowledge as his tongue slips into that open mouth and takes, a wet warm dance between them as they kiss deeply. Words fail him too, they would stumble and halt and struggle against him, yet the way his body speaks is clear and open, wanting from Astarion only what he was willing to give. No expectation, no force, just freedom to take as he will to reassure himself.]

« october: ghoul's moon (test sail) »

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

GHOST SHIP

QUESTS

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