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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

No.

[A swift response because within moments, her throat becomes parched and her voice dies the moment she feels those sparks again, and her hip shifts ever so slightly into it, pressing his fingers more firmly into her muscles, her body seeking to betray her by searching for more.]

I can manage just fine. That was just a fluke.

[But she makes no effort to move away from him still because why should she have to? It's not like his voice or his laugh teasing her ear is getting a rise out of her or anything!!! It's not like his hand sliding down her arm has done anything to make her heart race! Not at all.]

Watch.

[She'll flex her wrist until his hand has loosened enough for her to do another throw. There is more wind this time, meant to guide not only the dart, but her. Cool and crisp, to wake her up from whatever stupid enchantment his lightning can put her under...

She throws.

The dart doesn't even make it over the counter.]

[Cid can feel her wind, and he honestly thinks she will have the force to carry it out. So when it doesn't even go over the counter...

....

..........

Trying very hard not to laugh. But he fails, that chuckle freely escaping him as his arms now wrap fully around her waist, chin dropping to her shoulder with zero regard to the crowd around them.

Or her.]

Fluke was it?

[And that was her last dart, too.]

[Oh, she knows he's going to laugh, and so is everyone else. Benedikta could care less about all the others, but when she hears him chuckle in her ear, she stiffens... and then stiffens some more when his arms suddenly wrap around her waist. It's a good thing that she is facing away from him, or else he might have easily seen the way that her cheeks turned red then.

Not when she had dropped the dart. Not when the giggles and chuckles erupted, nor the comments she can hear them whispering to one another about their closeness. Not the way the girls all swoon over Cidolfus as they tend to do—something that makes Benedikta positively aggravated.

But it is when his chin drops to her shoulder, and he holds her.]

Let go of me.

[She pouts and grumbles, and shifts uncomfortably in his arms.]

[He should.

Really he shouldn't be holding her like this, but he can't help himself.

Not only is he reminded of the past when he's had to guide her—even if most of those occasions had been more chaste and even before they were in a close relationship—but it had also been so long that he could so "freely" embrace her. Not in a heated frenzy like last night, but just... More relaxed. Carefree.

To just hold her close in his arms like this—even when she's stiff as a cat, ready to claw her way free. In that sense it's also a bit bittersweet, knowing she's not ready for that again. Granted, maybe he shouldn't be so quick, either. But it's always hard to not feel both the good and bad, and perhaps he's just easier to be more inclined towards the good when he gets them.

So—]

What if I don't want to?

[—she gets a cheeky answer that masks his true desire, arms tightening just slightly. To never let her go, like he promised.

But of course he knows he will have to. They're standing in the middle of a small crowd and she's not going to tolerate this for much longer. Which is why his voice is outwardly more playful and mischievous and he won't protest or fight too much if she does try to break free on her own.]

[The truth is...

The truth is that Benedikta does not want him to let go. She never did, not back then, not here in this world, and not now, but giving in means losing this push and pull that they often find themselves in. Erasing the lines in the sand that she has drawn to keep herself safe... and that is not something that she can afford to do. Not now. Perhaps not ever.

And still, she would ask him to promise to not let her go.

When his arms tighten, she only stiffens further, her spine taut and her shoulders drawing forward. Despite how her body might protest by wriggling defiantly, though it lacks the fight, she is reminded of simpler days, just like he is. Reminded of the days before things had started to change, and the furrow of his frown never faded from between his brows. Reminded of days when she would laugh beneath her protests. Benedikta was never good with the gentler physical displays, but where she would try to fend him off, Cidolfus would always stubbornly fight back until she finally gave in.

"And if I don't want to let go?" he'd ask her then, as he does now. And she would laugh and call him something silly, but never mean it before she finally melted into his arms.]

You are unbearable, you know that?

[This time, however, she will not.

It's only after several lingering moments where she grips his wrist that she finally tries to wrestle herself free.]

I said let me go.

One of my many charms.

But fine, fine...

[A light smirk before he finally loosens his hold to free her...]

...For now.

[But not before a low murmur against her ear, granting her one last brush of his levin as his hands subtly slide over her sides before parting completely. And he will just cast her one last glance before he steps forward to where the man was still waiting for him to collect his prize.]

[And his glance will allow him to see the way her features are scrunched into a frown, her cheeks blazing and as red as the moon.

She'll wait, however, for him to collect his "prize", arms folded over her chest as she tries to fight off the lingering tingle that his lightning and his fingers have left behind on her hips beneath all the leather. She isn't sure if she's mad or relieved that she doesn't get anything—not even for her efforts which were good up until Cidolfus started toying with her.

"Y'all get to pick whichever prize from the top shelf," the attendant tells them both. He assumes that they are together. Benedikta's eyes scan the prizes, most of them silly stuffed and oversized toys—bears, pumpkins, ghosts, all of them looking happy with their big grins, like they are taunting her. The rest are knick-knacks, mostly for their phones, but nothing that she has any interest in.]

[And if he could capture that face with his shellphone he would, but his memory will have to suffice. Still, there is definitely something of a smug smirk as he scans the prizes, as if contemplating...

....

But he already knew which one he wanted and aimed for the moment she decided they would play this game.]

That one, the purple bear.

[The man grins and gets the grabber that would help pull it down, and once the large, oversized teddy bear is down—

"Here ya go, mate. Congratulations and good show! Have fun with the rest of your date."

A large wink that Cid just quietly laughs at as he takes the bear before returning to Benedikta.]

All for you.

[Grin grin grin.

He's even making it dance a bit in mid-air, tilting it this way and that and waves its arm at her.

Unbearable indeed.]

Edited 2023-11-01 02:42 (UTC)

[Wait, what—

But by the time she looks and realizes what's happening, it's too late. The bear is already in Cid's hands, and he is grinning at her like some proud cat that has just captured its prey, and she is the bird caught between its teeth.

What the fuck is he doing with it? Is he making it dance? He can't be serious??? ~~how did she ever come to love this man~~

Benedikta stares at the bear... then at him... then back at the bear—]

Enough of that. You look ridiculous.

[—before she snatches it out of his hands.]

It will look good shredded next to the two horned dolphins you gave me.

[The two horned dolphins that still sit on her bed, not shredded and in absolutely pristine condition.

As she tucks the bear under her arm, holding it close, whipping around so that her back is to him lest he see it. She picks up her wine slush again and takes a loooong sip from it.]

Edited 2023-11-01 02:46 (UTC)

[Oh she actually took it— He was fully prepared to be completely rejected and have to lug the thing around, which he wouldn't have minded, really. So to see her snatch it, tuck it under her arm, and take that loooong sip of her drink only makes him quietly laugh before he takes his own to join her.]

That you still have.

[SLURP.]

[!!! Shut up!]

Only because I have not found a reason to tear them apart yet.

[SLURP.

But she has no idea where she is going as she starts to walk, her arm wrapping around the bear to secure it to her chest as she finds herself back in the crowds again, and it's busier than she remembers.]

Now that you have shown off, where are you taking me next?

I have a feeling you've had enough games and...

[He pulls out his shellphone briefly to look at the time.]

Plenty of time still. So let's make our way to the bazaar.

[Can he feel the suspicion bleeding off of her as she follows him?]

Time until what?

[But she goes along with it anyway. It's not as if she has anywhere better to be at the moment, and she might as well see what this bazaar has to offer. Maybe she'll find something she actually likes to decorate her empty, boring apartment with. ~~or some nice jewels to pocket.~~]

[Just another loud slurp.]

You'll see soon enough.

[NOPE, not telling her all his plans just yet.

But as they hit the main road, it's clear the festival is in full swing as the crowds have grown bigger. Makes sense what with it being the last night of the festival and everyone wanting to enjoy that victory over the ghost ship.

Perhaps a little too much.

An impromptu "parade" of sorts just happens to be taking place near where they are, and more people are hurrying to catch a glimpse. Without even realizing it Cid has gotten a little ahead of Benedikta...]

[She's going to smack that drink right out of his hands if he doesn't stop with that sipping in place of a proper answer!

But she doesn't have time to do that because suddenly, there's a line of people that push between them, separating her from him. She sees him on the other side, still walking without a care in the world in that way that he always does, but Benedikta...]

Cidolfu—ugh! Get out of my way!

[The people don't seem to hear her, all of them too enamoured by all the attractions.

But as she watches his back moving further and further away from her, she feels small. Small, just like that girl all those years ago. Small and lost and slightly afraid, searching for his back among the crowd. Running to him. Searching for his hand to guide her, just like it had on that fateful day—

She doesn't realize it until her hand presses into and wraps around his, fingertips to leather, but she can still imagine the warmth underneath as she tugs.]

[Cid was also a bit distracted by the sights, which doesn't help him realize their separation. It's only when he hears his name that he stops with a frown, the sound seeming farther than right behind him.]

...Benedikta?

[He quickly looks around, but just as he's about to turn he feels her hand grabbing onto his. For a moment he feels a hot jolt whip through him—because it's the first time she's reached for him like this. With his heart stirring, he looks down at her before his fingers curl tightly over hers and he tugs her a little closer.]

Bit crowded, innit?

[He could tease her. He could point it out. But instead he just plays it naturally as if to spare her pride and nerves.]

[She can scarcely believe it herself. Instinct had taken over, and she had simply done what she used to in his presence, familiarity always within reach and ready for her to grab it.

She is so sure that the world stops for those several beats of her heart hammering in her chest when he looks at her. No doubt that he can see that flicker of fear and panic in her eyes, both at having been separated and at how quick she was to reach for his hand.

And, more than that, how much she does not want to let go.

How something like this can so easily soothe her and frighten her when his fingers curl over hers.

She had her hand in his only a night ago, but she has already forgotten how much smaller hers is. Or maybe it's all of her, trying to shrink back from the warmth and security it can offer. Whatever it is, she doesn't know — hell, she doesn't know what any of this is, but she doesn't end up pulling her hand back this time.

The bear tucked under her arm, her cup skillfully held in her other hand, she lets herself be pulled closer.

Though not without a sigh.]

You said it wouldn't be.

Where we were before, but unfortunately we have to pass through the main roads now. Just stay close.

[And then he leans in a little closer.]

Looks like I get to hold onto you sooner than I thought.

[Even now he continues to be a cheeky bastard, already gently tugging and moving forward to guide them through the mass of people ahead of them.]

[She isn't expecting him to say that, but she has little time to be surprised about it or to take her hand back before he's pulling her along.

It's far more crowded than any place they have ever been to—the only thing comparable were the more populated cities and towns, and even then, it was more spread out than this. Here, the crowd is dense and a little pushy, half the people already drunker than she feels, but it's all the more reason to keep her hand in his... is the excuse she'll use to convince herself it isn't just because she wants to.

Because she's missed this.

... Because over the years, he had become something of a crutch for her in a world she didn't yet understand. And maybe, in some ways, he has become that to her again.

Still, it doesn't mean she is going to make it easy.]

What is that supposed to mean?

[And Cid is looking cheerful as a clam despite the pushy crowd. Even as he gets bumped around as he purposefully maneuvers himself to try and shield her from the worst of it, keeping her to his inside, he gets to have a legitimate excuse to even have her like this with him. And soon she'll feel him pulling up her hand so that it's more tucked along his side, as if really making it clear he isn't letting her go anytime soon.]

Just exactly what I said.

[A light grin as he glances over to her before his eyes are back forward.]

Hup, that's a large group coming. Up this way.

[And again steering her through a gap to avoid said group of people.]

[Well, she doesn't understand exactly what he said or why he said it!!! That's why she asked! And she'll just grumble in frustration without questioning further because she knows it will just be a wall that answers back. He always was fond of being cheeky with a penchant for stroking her ire.

The worst part is that she has always let him.

And just as she allows that, she also allows him to pull her a little closer, tucking her into his side rather than pulling her behind. She keeps her head turned away when she feels her cheeks light up with warmth again but stays right at his side.

Just like she used to...

It's an odd feeling.]

This bazaar had better be worth it.

It's the last night, so it may have more interesting things as they try to sell their wares before the night is over.

[And probably busier than expected, but... Well it should be fine. Just another excuse for them to stay close—

But uh oh.

Looking ahead, Cid frowns a little as he cranes his neck around a large bear fellow, clucking his tongue.]

And looks like we have a bit of a jam... Might have to find another way around.

[A quick glance around before he spots a potential route.]

Stick close, think I found a way.

[Stick close, huh? Well, she does, but when he starts to drag her in a different direction, her eyes narrow at the back of his head.]

Cidolfus.

[Her voice is firm.]

You are not doing this on purpose, are you?

[Pulling her this way and that, finding different routes when they could just push on ahead towards the bazaar. It's definitely suspicious, but there is a hint of amusement in the way she arches a brow.]

I have no idea what you're talking about.

[Him? Plotting something? Noooo... Course not.]

[It will be her turn to give his hand a firm pull, to at least make him slow down.]

Do not play coy with me.

[As she chews on the inside of her cheek, literally biting back that quirk of her lip that she feels pulling against her will.]

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

GHOST SHIP

QUESTS

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