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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

Arrival/Tattoo

[ Upon awakening on the deck of the ship, the ground moves beneath her feet, causing her shuffle, stumble, fall once more. Slowly crawling to her knees, she lifts a hand to her forehead, tenderly rubbing the center where a rather sizable, round, red mark lies. For those who have witnessed her fall, they will also see how her fingers make some sort of gesture with her fingers over the injury, but nothing happens.

But of course not. No magic heals the wound, let alone soothe the ache, and the young woman is left staring at the palm of her hand, eyes widening with surprise. Surprise swiftly turns to panic as that same hand moves to her chest, frantically grasping the clothes she wears, only to peel away from the cloth as unfamiliarity dawns upon her. Once again she looks at her trembling palms, turning them over and back again in such a way that suggests she expects something else to have stained them. Like this, she sits dazed until a crewmember greets her and graciously ushers her down to the decks below for actual rest.

Sometime later, she emerges from her cabin to the deck above, looking not quite refreshed, but better than she once was. She now stands with a hand upon the railing of the ship, gazing out to the vast sea where whitecaps break with the strong, salty wind and sailfish soar over their crests. Color lacks on her cheeks, but she remains standing, silent and wistful. A loose strand of hair tosses in the wind, which she corrects with a simple tuck behind her ear. Is this all real?

...

Later, she leaves the ink parlor, having successfully received her tattoo. Rem rubs her left upper arm gingerly, but when she spots you, she manages to muster a sheepish smile. ] We were never allowed tattoos as cadets. [ Yes, yes, she's no longer a cadet, here... but the difference between this world and her own still baffles her. ] You wouldn't happen to know where to purchase a salve? It still stings a bit.

Fesitval: Ghoul's Moon Festival

[ The blood moon is aplty named. It's probably the sight for most, that of a magnificent moon rising above the horizon, casting the sea and sky in a hauntingly dazzling ruby light-- perfect for a festival that celebrates ghouls and ghosts and the appeasing of such spirits from long ago.

It is the Crystals' blessing to forget the dead. It is the Crystals' blessing to forget the dead. Yet, here there are many, celebrating, drinking, crafting, dancing in a festival. She stands in awe of it all; that is, until a vendor offers her a small sample of the Hornswaggle's Vengeance. It only takes a bite, and she feels her tongue, her throat, her whole mouth burning-- oh dear eidolons, she's hiccupping fire. ]

Don't-- [ This is followed by a hic! between her words. Watch out! Unless you'd want your clothes burned off. ] Don't come near...! [ She abruptly covers her mouth, but both flames and smoke seep through the cracks between her fingers. Tears begin to well in her eyes, both out of embarrassment and the sheer amount of heat in the meal. It's spicy! Meekly, she manages to plead: ] Water... please!

Masquerade: Blind/Dancing/Shenanigans

[ For those that are curious, she wears a simple, tulle gown that both clings to her waist and allows just the right amount of movement to dance, and her mask is that of a bird. Maybe she's supposed to be a cardinal? A robin? Some sort of avian, at any rate-- not that it matters. She can hardly stop to admire the quality and craftsmanship of both gown and mask in a mirror, because mere minutes after she places the latter upon her face, she finds herself without her vision. ] ....What...?

[ Rem's hands immediately fly to the mask, only to discover she's unable to peel it from her face. Knowing she must look the fool for it, she stumbles backward into one of the sirens who enchanted the accessory. Thankfully, this particular siren is feeling rather charitable this evening, and they explain the conditions of the enchantment. Well. Okay. The information is something with which she can work! Now all she has to find is another dance partner! While being unable to see. Right. ]

Excuse me....? [ A gentle, shy voice calls out, and she lifts a hand to literally anyone she hears to be passing her by. ] Would you mind a quick dance?

Masquerade: Outside

[ Find her in the garden sitting upon one of the benches. She's removed her mask and taken a few pins out of her curled hair. It seems she's come to the garden for respite, and those who encounter her will hear her humming a melody of her own world. The song draws the fireflies to her, but she does not capture them. Instead, she allows one to delicately land upon one of her fingers, which she lifts up to inspect. The melody diminishes as her lips curve into a small, content smile, one that appears to ease the weariness found within her eyes.

But then a cough escapes her. Suddenly, the fireflies disperse as her shoulders rattle with another cough. Quickly, she brings a hand to her mouth, covering her lips with her gloved hand.

It's then that she sees you. ] O-oh... Pardon me.

Ghost Ship

How terrible. These were all once people, alive. [ And now, despite all belief, there is essentially a militia of skeletons and ghouls prepared to wreck havoc on this world. Upon the other ship, they clang their rusted weapons and howl for the upcoming battle.

It is the Crystals' blessing to forget the dead. It is the Crystals' blessing to forget the dead. Throughout her arrival, during the festival, and as she danced and wandered the ballrooms of the masquerade, the mantra's repeated within her mind. Yet in this world, there are neither the Crystals nor their blessing. Still, she wonders. How many of these animated skeletons are even remembered at this point, when there is no flesh clinging to their bones?

A glimmer of light precedes the appearance of two long daggers in her hands, and as her fingers tighten around their hilts, she draws in a slow, steadying breath. No matter what world she's in, it seems she's meant for battle.

It is the Crystals' blessing to forget the dead. Which means... her friends, back at home-- by virtue of remembering them-- are still alive. That's all she needs to know to continue. And so, she will fight. ] I'll take the ones on he left of the gangway.

Wildcard

[ Have an idea? PM this account, drinksteapots, or Jade294#6977! ]

[ Oh, dear, that certainly is fire coming from this poor girl. Was this one of those pranks he'd heard so much about? Well, not to worry. Xenk leaps into action, as he is wont to do, grabbing a nearby glass and filling it with water before holding it out for her. ]

Take this. Best to drink it slowly.

[ hey, don't worry, if you get fire on him, he'll be fine. He's wearing a white sheet ghost "costume" if you can call it that, so if it catches fire, all the better. ]

[ Spicy food is good. Spicy food is great, even. But not like this...!

Rem practically snatches the glass from his hands-- she'll apologize later-- and takes a generous gulp of water. Slowly, he's cautioned. Right. Okay. She can do that. At least when she opens her mouth to speak, only smoke comes out. ]

Th-thank you. [ She rasps between breaths. ] I promise this isn't normal. It's the stir-fry, it is!

I believe you.

[ Xenk nods, all solemn and serious. It's his natural state of being, but he wouldn't make light of her plight. ]

Hornswaggle is well-known for producing particularly spicy foodstuffs. I cannot say I am surprised to find their latest batch is more literal than their last attempt.

[ He fixes the stall a look, judging. ]

I shall see that a warning is placed on their food.

[ Hornswaggle's spicy stir-fry is not a challenge she can undertake, and she'll be sure to avoid it in the future (a shame, because through the "flavor" of the fire, it's actually quite delicious). ] That's a great ide--

[ ...

......

Oh.

Oh dear. ]

[ She feels it-- a fierce tingling of her throat.

He'll see her go pale.

He'll see her go red.

He'll see her press her lips together in a grimace, covering her mouth with a hand as her cheeks grow the size of baseballs. ]

[ And if he doesn't immediately dodge, he'll be in the line of fire. Literally. ]

[ Fret not, Rem! Xenk rolled a 16 to dodge so that's a DEXTERITY SAVE: SUCCESS! It's a close thing dodge, but he manages to avoid the brunt of the flames. It definitely singes part of his costume, but he easily peels the sheet off in a single motion, curling the singed corner in on itself and extinguishing any troublesome flames. ]

It seems the water may not have been enough.

[ He'll get her another glass if nothing else. Don't worry, he doesn't even seem bothered. ]

Would you be opposed if I were to use magic to remove your affliction? I should have no trouble with an ailment of a physical nature.

[ What a dodge! She'd be impressed if it weren't for the fact that she's worried she's going to burn the whole place down.

Through a self-muffled mouth: ] Please do!

[ Xenk nods. He always asks for permission (now that he has friends who care about that kind of thing!) ]

Very well.

[ With that granted, he steps closer a rests a hand on her shoulder, his palm glowing with a golden light as he channels his Cleansing Touch ability to remove her condition! ~~Assuming it counts as a point/physical ailment, let's say that it does.~~ And heal her for 22 points, if that matters. ]

How do you feel now?

[ The magic washes over her in a swift tide, and she feels the result almost instantly: no longer does she feel like there are literal coals upon her tongue or a flint in the back of her throat. The smoke subsides, and after a pause, she lowers her hands, sighing in relief. ]

Oh... Wow. [ She replies, finding that her voice doesn't even feel hoarse. ] I feel much better.

[ Rem lifts her gaze, looking at the man who was so kind to him. ] What sort of magic was that?

I am glad.

[ Xenk smiles, happy to have been of assistance. ]

As a paladin, my healing magic is a gift I possess by virtue of my Oath of Devotion. [ He pauses. ] That is not to say this is a magic afforded to all Paladins here. This is a kind of magic from my world, born from the oath I swore to my god.

[ Healing magic given to him by his god...? So a paladin is like a knight, but dedicated to a higher power. It doesn't sound all that different from how the Crystals give some their boons, as well. ]

Well, it did exactly as intended. [ She rubs her throat gingerly. ] Honestly, I feel as if I could sing until morning!

[ She'll spare everyone, though. ]

I am happy to hear it.

[ Xenk grins, enthused by her own enthusiasm. All's well that ends well! Well, ish. ]

You are newly arrived, correct? Let me know if you should require any assistance. I am Xenk Yendar, a paladin by trade, but also of the Paladin armada.

[ He holds out his hand for her to shake, properly! We do proper introductions here. ]

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[A hand grips hers and pulls her immediately into a spin and into a dance. Though he had only just learned the steps that night and not all of the night had gone well, he was still feeling very... social. He was also very good at the dance. Anyone watching - or being led by him - would likely not be able to tell he was a beginner.

Daqiang would not have recognized her if not for her voice - he had met her prior to regaining his power (a fraction of his power) through the tattoo. But she happened to call out as he was passing by, just having drained a glass of the wine.

He did not, however, speak. Unknowingly, a teasing smile lingered on his lips while he waited to see how she'd react.]

[ The sooner she gets her sight back, the better. It truly is disorienting, so when she finds that someone has graciously taken her offer, she's not at all opposed. How lucky she is to have found someone to dance with so quickly!

Even if the immediate spin does throw her off for a second or two.) ]

Oh... You're good at this. [ Relief further lifts both her spirits and smile. So not only has someone chosen to dance with her, but they know the steps! Double-luckly, really. ] I'm afraid you'll have to take the lead, though.

[There is a hum and her partner is able to control the dance enough that her initial stumbles have no real effect on the smoothness of theirs steps.]

This venerable one is naturally skilled.

[He murmured just loud enough to be heard by her, no small amount of undue pride in his tone along with clear amusement. He didn't know why he was feeling so... whatever it was he was feeling. But it was a pleasurable sensation and he... he rather liked it.]

Oh, you're--

[ Although she immediately recognizes the voice, the recognition itself is what causes a small miss-step between counts to the song.

She hadn't expected to meet him here, that much is certain, and she nearly stumbles forehead-first into him, oops. ]

[He catches her, but he has to jerk his head back to prevent her forehead from colliding with his chin.]

Stop that.

[Daqiang grips her with some force to get her back into position so they could start over. He was feeling so good and now he's annoyed.]

Count the steps.

[ Quick to overcome her initial surprise, Rem corrects her steps to fall into the routine of the dance, then looks up to where she believes to be his head based on sound alone. ] Ah, sorry, sorry... [ The apologies are spoken through an innocent smile that gradually widens, however. It seems she's genuinely glad to run into him again, expression warm and bright. ] But it's you-- Sir Venerable One!

[ Knowing that he calls himself 'venerable one', she can't exactly address him by name, can she? Unfortunately, Rem has very little knowledge or interaction with nobility, let alone whatever sort of being Daqiang is. So, addressing him as such will have to do. ] I didn't expect to se-- er, run into you at this party.

You man address this one as Moon Supreme.

[He was fairly sure she hadn't intended to mock him by calling him 'sir venerable one'. She had, thus far, come across as the straightforward and honest type.]

Until now, this venerable one has found no leads on the artifact that may send him back to the Three Realms. A party such as this brings many people together. It may prove useful. It also may not. Until this venerable one has found a line to investigate, looking in any place is as useful as another.

[ Such an analytical answer earns a slight purse of her lips, but by the time he finishes speaking, her smile resumes.

Rem cants her head a degree to the side. ]

You know, I think you're forgetting one more thing.

This venerable one only shared a few words with you, how could you know if this venerable one has forgotten something?

[She can't see his frown, but she could probably hear it. It was just shy of being a pouty tone. And though he gave her no space to respond to his first question, he barrelled on to ask:]

Well, what is it?

[ If only she could see, because his tone strikes her as almost bearing a pout. Almost.

Rem considers making him guess for it, if only because he sounds so sure of himself, but decides otherwise. ] It's very simple, it is. [ She'll draw out her answer as they continue the dance. ] The main reason to attend a party is because...

...it can be fun. [ All of his reasons, at least listed thus far, sounded strategic, like a general deliberating the merits of a particular campaign. Crystals, she hopes this man knows there's something more to a gala than that. ]

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

GHOST SHIP

QUESTS

Rem Tokimiya | Final Fantasy: Type-0 | Corsair | TDM

festival

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1/4

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Dancing

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