escordvi | « test sail »

Entry tags:

« test sail »

Welcome to the first 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 received invitations from the mods can actually reserve on August 25th and apply on September 1st. Our Interest Check can be found here.

For your toplevel, please include the following: Character Name | Canon | Armada Choice. If undecided, put "Undecided" for the Armada.

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 carryover the threads. We'll have more armada focused prompts in the opening log in September. The log itself is set to cover the next two weeks, 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.

IMPORTANT REMINDER FOR MAGIC USERS!! All magic abilities will be "sealed" until characters get their tattoo from the Inkwave parlor in Eltrut. That means no magic on the starter ships before docking.

We do require TDM threads for samples for our application!

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 August 28)

STARTER SHIPS: ORIENTATION

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.

ELTRUT: FIRST GLIMPSE

After reaching the port of Eltrut, several birdfolk will appear and happily greet all the new arrivals from both starter ships. Here it doesn't matter which side they are affiliated with, as long as they keep those swords and weapons sheathed and not pointed at each other's throats. The birdfolk will even act as guides, showing them the main places they should visit and give them a visitor's map to help guide them.

🐚 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.

It's a lot to take in for sure, with the port city bustling with all walks of life. Not only do they have both armadas mingling with each other, there are different races and species from all over Escordvi gathered here. It's not just humans, which many riftfarers always seem to be surprised about. There are also plenty of veteran riftfarers who will gladly give some advice and even share stories of their world. Maybe some are familiar.

After finding their belongings, exploring the town, and meeting other people, being able to just sit back and enjoy a drink and warm meal will be in order. While there are plenty of places to choose from, the Minstrel and Cask will be the top recommended tavern for all newcomers to visit at least once. Great drinks, great food, and can learn a lot from the patrons or meet more people.

Of course, as expected of a highly popular tavern, it's not always peaceful. A man will ask travelers what they want to do with their life. Clearly drunk, he only accepts answers that hint at wanting to find riches. If told this he will give out a treasure map. But if told anything else, he'll put up a fight, hoping to deliver a black eye. Those who do receive the map will be sorely disappointed—it will lead them down a long, winding, circuitous path around town and end at a random outhouse, likely occupied and certainly stinking to high heavens. There's likely some kind of moral here, but at some point, others who have been duped will return to the tavern to sling their fists around.

Looks like another tavern brawl for the night.

QUESTS

For those who want to try their hand at some quests, there are a few that would do well for newcomers. 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.

Spicy Squid Eating Challenge

Eltrut Port

There is a traveling food ship (think food truck but on the water) that has been going around challenging ships to their extraordinary Hornswaggle's Spicy Squid Eating Challenge. If participants can scarf down a prepared three-pound bowl of exceptionally spicy ghost pepper squid and rice, they will win their meal for free as well as a crate of dried spicy squid for their ship's stores. If participants fail, they will have to pay for the meal and the crate.

...Careful, are some of the squid tentacles still moving?

Coral Reef Snacks

Eltrut

Rumour has it that certain types of coral reefs contain unique properties that can make you more alluring to the one you desire, but no one is sure what the side effects are. Test this out by trying to crunch into chunks of coral reef pieces to see if there are any added effects on your body. Hopefully, they don't ruin your teeth in the meantime.

Oh, and you have to find the correct coral reef too! Red chunks seem to make you more affectionate towards others, while blue chunks seem to make you more volatile towards others. Eaters, beware!

Giant Sea Slugs

Starter Ships

Giant sea slugs tend to only attack ships if they feel threatened but are otherwise peaceful creatures. They're about the size of a large wild cat. They also secrete a slime that contains strong disinfectant properties. This thick slime is highly sought after for its ability to heal wounds cleanly, so kill them and collect as much slime as possible.

Killer Sharkgulls

Eltrut port and ships

Seagulls can be a pain to most ships. Yet, seagulls that have evolved to be violently carnivorous can be even worse. These new birds, effectively named sharkgulls, have been seen attacking ships and ports alike. They are big enough to eat small children in one gulp or will do their best to eat full-grown humans after they've ripped them to bite-sized shreds. Beware and kill them before they can kill you!

Siren's Serenade

Out at Sea

A merchant's ship has crashed upon an outcropping of rocks after being lured in by a group of rogue sirens. These captivating creatures possess the power to ensnare their prey with their enchanting voices, luring unsuspecting souls into the depths to meet the grim fate of drowning.

Search for the missing ship and help rescue the captive sailors before it's too late! You will be supplied with special earplugs to muffle out the siren's voices so be careful to keep your ears effectively plugged. You don't want to succumb to the siren's bloodlust yourself.

Any sailors or rescuers affected by the siren's song can be treated with a harpy's potion that can reverse the song's effect. Or tie up the afflicted for twenty-four hours to wait out the effects.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[What an earnest young man... Lyney finds that the smile that creeps onto his face is more genuine than just for show. The coins swiped and tucked away safely, Lyney puts his hat back on his head with a little twirl of the garment.]

You've got the right mindset there, my friend! Tell you what; I'll take you up on your offer, and even show you some exclusive tricks in exchange for your kindness! And I promise, I won't make all of your money disappear.

[He punctuates that last part with a playful wink.]

[Joshua was raised in a household that enjoyed theatre. His uncle told him that this was the sort of courtesy to pay. Then again his uncle likes to pay for a lot of things...

But it is a relief to hear that his kindness will be taken. He smiles.]

I would enjoy the chance to see that. Please, show me your exclusive tricks.

[Joshua's uncle is a kind and respectable man, then. Any support for the arts is grandly appreciated, of course!]

[Lyney chuckles, nodding happily.]

Of course, of course! But first, how about that meal? I wasn't lying about being famished from that last performance, and magic isn't performed well on an empty stomach.

[He probably could perform even if he were hungry, honestly. He's just wanting to eat first.]

Edited 2023-08-22 23:06 (UTC)

Of course, please order anything you wish.

[This little prince is still princely in the way that he spends money, it seems.]

I've tried the stew and the lamb already, it was quite delicious. Do you have a preference?

Anything at all? You should be more careful with your offer; a less-noble mind might take that as an invitation to empty your pockets and strip you of all your Mora.

[He says the words in a light, playful chide, but he doesn't truly seem to be admonishing Joshua; rather, he finds it fascinating. Either this man is exceptionally kind, or exceptionally rich... or perhaps both. Either way, he's interesting to Lyney.]

The stew and lamb? That sounds like a wonderful choice, my friend! Although, I am also curious about their fish dishes; a port town such as this must have a wide selection of fresh fish available, wouldn't it?

[Joshua does laugh softly.]

Please don't interpret my gesture as an invitation for anyone to exploit me. I genuinely admire your artistic talents, as I've always held a deep appreciation for the arts. I want to assure you that I'm well aware of how to safeguard my resources when necessary.

[He geuinely finds it charming that the magician is looking out for him.]

It does appear they have a variety of seafood dishes as well. Would you like to try some?

[So he's confident in his ability to defend himself, huh? Well, that makes Lyney feel a bit better. He rests a hand over his heart, nodding eagerly.]

Very well, you've convinced me! And you've even made me feel a little safer around you! Like a knight in shining armour, gallant and honourable, and your appreciation for the arts does not go unnoticed either! Ah, if only more people were as passionate as you...

[It's a little dramatic, sure, but he wouldn't be Lyney if he wasn't.]

I would love to do so, but your earlier suggestions also piqued my curiosity. How about this: if you're willing to go on a culinary adventure with me, what say we both pick a dish and then share it? That way we get the best of both worlds!

[Well, he would rather avoid it but if he has to roast a thief Joshua can absolutely roast a thief...]

A knight, I'm not so sure. But I appreciate the compliments nonetheless.

[He smiles in return.]

And share a dish each? Hmm. That sounds like a fair idea. If that's the case I'll be ordering the lamb stew.

The lamb stew, huh..? Excellent choice, my friend! [He briefly examines the posted menu.] As for myself, I think I'll go with the seafood medley. That sounds like a good mix of dishes, don't you think?

[Soon enough, their order is placed, and they have a moment to wait for it. During that time, Lyney turns to his companion.]

Pardon me, but in all this excitement, I don't think I had the pleasure of getting your name. I'm Lyney, a magician from Fontaine.

[Joshua nods to agree and allows the order to be placed. Meanwhile, some wonderful tavern music begins. A bard seems to have taken the corner stage to fill the space with easy-sounding bard music.

And then Joshua offers a small bow of his head.]

It's an honour to meet you, Master Lyney. I am Joshua Rosfield, I hail from the Kingdom of Rosaria. Although here you may simply know me as Joshua.

[A lively atmosphere, wonderful music, good company... honestly, Lyney can't ask for a more enjoyable atmosphere. Well, it would be nicer if his siblings were here and safe... but, no, he can't pull himself down that rabbit hole. Instead he keeps his attention on the pretty man beside him, offering a pleasant smile in return.]

The pleasure is all mine, Mister Joshua. So, while we're here, why not tell me a bit about yourself? You've seen my performances and know about my profession, but I've yet to learn about you! So tell me, what sort of life do you live in the Kingdom of Rosaria?

["What sort of life do you live in the Kingdom of Rosaria?" 😓

But more seriously, Joshua's lips tug into a soft smile. While his memories of Rosaria may be painful there are memories that he holds very dear. Therefore, he chooses to be honest.]

I'm afraid I no longer reside in Rosaria, my birthplace. I'm formally the youngest prince of two and heir to the throne. My elder brother, though older than I, made the noble choice to dedicate his life as my protector and shield. However, our paths have led us elsewhere these days. ... Living there has happy memories for me.

[And some really terrible memories too but.]

[Hearing that Joshua is a prince is a topic that's ripe for flattery, but it gets overshadowed by the mention of him no longer living in his birthplace. And for the first time that night, a soft smile crosses Lyney's face, one that feels a bit more genuine than the wide grin he had on before.]

I'm truly sorry to hear that, Mr. Joshua. To be displaced from one's homeland... that's not an easy loss to cope with, is it?

[He rests a hand on his chest.]

For many of us, the only connection we have to this world, aside from our family, is our homeland. But I am glad that your memories of your home are happy ones. At least you are able to hold those memories close and cherish them.

[The moment holds for a moment, before that grin is back on his face.]

But I should have known I was speaking to royalty! Your demeanour is certainly not that of us common folk, nor is your generosity. Should I be referring to you as your highness instead?

[Joshua feels a certain warmth appear on his cheeks as he smiles.]

While I don't mind the titles I would be happy with whatever you wish to call me. Be it Joshua or otherwise.

[He isn't that picky. And honestly, he's been called by royal titles his whole life even after losing Rosaria so he doesn't mind.]

And you are correct, sometimes it's the memories that hold the closest. And my brother and my found sister as well. With them, I am home wherever we might be.

Hmm. Well, then! I'll keep the titles in mind, but perhaps I should simply refer to you as "a friend"?

[Oh yes, he is laying on the sweet talk just a little. It's not every day he gets to schmooze a prince, after all.]

Spoken like a true brother. As an older brother myself, I can fully relate. So long as my twin sister and found younger brother are with me, home is wherever we all are together.

[What remains unsaid, however, is how unsettling it is being away from his family. Lynette, Freminet... even the other kids at the House of the Hearth. He misses them dearly, and prays for their safety, wherever they may be.]

I... [Okay, now he's picking up on a little flirtation in Lyney's upbeat voice and Joshua freezes up just a little??] Yes. I would like that. A friend in a brave new world is certainly welcome.

[So Lyney is a brother as well... They have more in common than he first thought.]

If you would, Lyney... Tell me more about yourself? Have you been a fan of magic and theatrics your whole life?

[Oh, did his flirt hit home? Lyney can only smile sweetly. Oh, this one is going to be fun to poke at.]

[But at the mention of his own life, he perks up.]

You could say something to that effect! Why, you could say that I was born in the spotlight; ever since I learned how to perform my tricks, I've only ever wanted to improve my art and perform one great trick after the other. Not only to prove myself as Teyvat's greatest magician, but also to see the looks of wonder and awe on my audience's face as I perform trick after trick for them. Nothing pleases me more than seeing an auditorium of smiling faces as they get to see a glimpse of the extraordinary!

[It's a lot of big, pompous words, words that sound impressive but might not fully answer Joshua's question. For what goes unsaid is the struggles he faced, the overt desire to learn his skills not only as a means for himself, but a means for keeping his sister safe, and a means for success on his missions for the House of the Hearth. How magic was less of a passion at times and more a means of staving off hunger, and how it started as less a wonder and more a tool for survival. In fact, had he not met Cesar when he did, he might not even fully consider magic a passion like he does now.]

[Please do ignore how Joshua gains a slight blush across his cheeks.]

To live such a fulfilling life, following your own ambition and dreams... I have to say. I'm slightly envious of you.

[It's not pompous in the slightest to Joshua. He finds the confidence refreshing and the freedom in which Lyney seems to carry himself... It's nice.]

My uncle often took my brother and I to see theatre shows when we were young. We would always reenact them the best we could after dinner. It's amazing how the arts can carry us, so.

[Ah, so though the young Prince grew up privileged, he still remained chained to his responsibility. Was that not a common trait in the storybooks and fairy tales that Freminet enjoyed reading? Lyney nods in understanding.]

It's said that the arts are a way for people to express the true emotions buried deep within their souls, and that they sustain us in the same ways that the body is sustained with food and water. But though we may be confined to the trappings of our responsibilities, the arts can give us a glimpse into the wondrous and extraordinary. Grant us a window to a life beyond the life we are living, and allow us to step into shoes that fate would otherwise deny us. And just as the body needs nourishment, so too does the soul.

And after all...

[He holds up a card with one hand, then brings up his other to cover it. With a flourishing motion, the card vanishes, and is instead replaced with a bright, bulbous Lumidous Bell. He then offers the flower to Joshua to take.]

...magic is an art that shatters the barrier between reality and fantasy, and grants its audience a glimpse into the extraordinary.

[He offers a warm smile, allowing the moment to hold. But it's not he who ends the moment, but rather the tavern keeper, who arrives with their lamb stew and seafood medley platter.]

Ah! What wonderful timing! Looks like our food is here.

[Joshua listens with a small soft smile on his lips. Oh, what he wouldn't give to live in shoes that aren't his own. Perhaps a wish more so for a younger version of himself. He would never think to abandon his fate now- But all the same... The way that Lyney says so makes a small ache appear in his chest.

When the flower is produced he feels himself blush as he takes it with gentle fingers. Holding it like a gift to be respected.]

Perhaps it's those very reasons why I enjoy a theatre show as much as I do. To be able to see emotions and stories expressed in a way that I'll never be able to do myself...

[Anyway... the food is here.]

This has been pleasant, Master Lyney. I'm grateful to be breaking bread with you.

Well, all it takes is one story to inspire us, doesn't it? Even if fate is cruel, we all can enjoy a moment's fancy and learn something about ourselves because of the theatre and arts, can't we?

[This conversation has been quite nice, even including the slightly serious turns it took. Lyney smiles warmly as the flower is accepted.]

As am I, your majesty. You've been wonderful company.

[Now, turning to the food, his smile turns just a bit mischievous.]

So! Shall we be sharing this lovely bounty before us?

[...is he serious?]

Hm...? Sharing?

[Another turn in the conversation- actually! Joshua seems a bit puzzled as he asks for clarification.]

You wish to share... our plates? Please pardon my lack of awareness regarding certain table manners or customs that may be associated with a new place like this?

[Come again?]

Why not? We are friends now, are we not? And is it not strange for friends to share things?

[He says it with a cheeky smile... one that soon breaks into a grin.]

Oh don't look so shocked, I'm just kidding of course! You should see the look on your face! I'll call for an extra plate so we can share properly.

I suppose it isn't entirely strange...

[Oh, he's being teased! Again! Joshua feels another blush coming about.]

While I am not used to being teased as such... I'm learning you are the remarkably mischievous kind, Lyney.

[But that's okay Joshua seems a little defeated but accepting all the same.]

Edited 2023-10-21 16:43 (UTC)

[At that light accusation, Lyney merely chuckles, offering a playful wink.]

My apologies, your highness. I merely wanted to see your reaction. But I promise, no more mischief! Here, let's eat, and you can continue to tell me more about yourself!

[Why not chat over some delicious food? And maybe Lyney will show Joshua a few more tricks while he's here.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

« test sail »

STARTER SHIPS: ORIENTATION

ELTRUT: FIRST GLIMPSE

QUESTS

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

Wrap!