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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

[Joshua hadn't been very pleased to find himself falling and reappearing inside of a fish net on some random ship either. It's been a terribly uncomfortable and confusing day that's left Joshua a little worse for wear as well.

Without his belongings, he feels entirely out of place but he has managed to at least purchase a light cloak for now so he's not wearing simply rags. Seems this little prince is still a little prince at heart. Until he can find his clothing and his sword...

Although, seeing Dion there along the road has Joshua feeling conflicted. There's relief and surprise there but also a curious uncertainty of how he should feel seeing him. He makes his way toward the man, despite his apparent bad mood.]

Bahamut. It seems that this abnormal occurrence hasn't spared many of us. Are you ... alright?

[ Joshua, as a companion and ally is deserving of a smile. His bad mood aside, it isn't added to when he meets the other young man. He's in some kind of oversized uniform as opposed to rags. It's not a very dignified look for him and probably more of his chest can be seen than ever has been before, the top two buttons were missing.

His day is not going well, but that's not Joshua's fault, not by a long shot. He doesn't know who's fault it is, but when he finds out he'll likely give them a piece of his mind. ]

Phoenix. [ It's a pleasure to see him. ] My health is well enough. I'm seeking my belongings without any guidance.

It seems we were both given the same ... task.

[There's a light quirk to Joshua's lips as if he's just as put out about this too. Joshua would very much like to have his things back.

But more than that it's a relief for Joshua to see Dion. There's a tentative step forward as if Joshua almost wants to embrace the man in a hug but he hesitates.

There are too many questions to be addressed. And so long as Dion is well that is enough for Joshua for the moment.]

Whatever rift brought us to this world it seems to have wanted to make a mockery of us. Perhaps we could work together to find our things.

[ Some task, it seems like a lot of nonsense and this whole thing has been nothing but one twist after another. Dion is so very tired of twists, but here they are. Nothing he can do about it, he can only press onward. ]

I quite agree, that does seem to be rather high on this rift's priorities. Greagor help us all. [ Because seriously, what kind of nightmare is this? He'd much rather like his clothes and his lance back. ]

That seems like a most reasonable solution, considering I have very little direction.

[Joshua reaches into his cloak pocket again and pulls out a ragged old-looking piece of parchment paper. It has a map of Eltrut Island as well as some markings that might indicate x marks the spot.]

I did find this map shortly after I arrived. One of the sailors told me it's where I might find my things. We may find yours along the way as well.

Mine was hardly so detailed. [ Joshua's lucky. The map, if that's what it can be called, is parchment that is very worn down, the Island is not even labelled and aside from a lack of detail in the town, just a few boxes that could be buildings? There's a small hint - look for the rock along the beach.

How helpful is that? There are a lot of rocks on the beach. No attempts to clarify the information led to anything fruitful either. ]

I should hope so. [ Dion tugs at the collar of his uniform shirt, far more open than anything he's worn in his life. ] I hardly think this is my colour.

[ Ah, a joke. ]

[Joshua raises a curious expression and comes closer to look at the map that Dion had received. And he frowns because it does look... kind of terrible.

He'd been about to remark on that but then Dion's comment has him looking up with a small smile.]

I would have to agree. Worn browns are hardly becoming of the crown prince of the Holy Empire of Sanbreque.

[He teases lightly back before he nods.]

Then let's hope that my map proves fruitful for both of us.

[ It's hardly worth commenting on really, just something to lighten the tension. It isn't, but the title holds so little meaning anymore. ]

All the same, I'd be more comfortable in armour. [ Lest anyone try and stab him anytime soon. It could happen. ]

That would be a small mercy, I should think.

[What are titles to either of them now that they've lost them? But it does help to make something light-hearted out of this strange situation. Who are they here but corsairs and paladins, now? He's not sure what to make of it all just yet.

He nods and makes a note on his map to start searching on one of the shores for this marked x.]

And I would be happier with my own leathers and my weapon. Let's begin searching.

[It's a bit of a trek towards the beach shore. While they search... Joshua starts with a curious question.]

If I may ask, how did you find yourself in this world? Was it a bottle as well?

[ He doesn't mind the company. Of the other dominants, Joshua was by far his favourite. It doesn't hurt that they haven't had to fight very much, unlike with some others who he's been pit against many times. ]

A bottle, yes. It rolled against my feet and when I bent down to take a look I found myself here.

[ He was just going to move it out of the way - he didn't mean for any of this. ]

[If there was a reason for them to fight Joshua would absolutely hesitate. He would not want to fight Dion in any capacity. He has vague memories of them speaking when they were children and while Joshua's memories of those times can be a blur the are still important to him. He sees Dion as a friend. And while he understands there must be a gap between them now... He would not want to fight Dion.]

A similar story to mine. I had been minding my own when that bottle found itself in my lap. At first, I thought maybe Gav had been deep in his cups again.... And yet, I found myself washed away to this place as well.

[...]

It seems we have a detour to handle before we can return home.

So it would seem. I have not heard of any way to return otherwise. [ Dion answers because it would be helpful for Joshua to know if he had. He finds the walk with him very companionable, unlike many other potential walking partners lurking about in the shadows. ]

There is nothing for it until that moment we return. I won't go borrowing unnecessary trouble. [ Dion is worried, but he's trying not to be. ]

As my uncle would say... One step at a time.

[He chances a soft smile at Dion. Trying to offer his assurance that whatever this world might have for them it will not stop their final goals. When they get there.

As they walk they'll come out to a collection of sturdy trees that line where the beach and sand start.]

There, I think the map marks an x somewhere along this shoreline.

Edited 2023-08-22 03:26 (UTC)

Not terrible advice. [ He's the type who would tell others not to worry, but spend his time worrying all the same, even if it's a waste of time. He knows that. ]

Let me see, if you would? [ Dion steps closer to look over Joshua's shoulder, considering the map curiously. ]

Of course.

[He'll allow Dion to observe the map. Only slightly warmed by Dion looking over his shoulder. He'll pay no mind...]

Still not as helpful as I would like, but not entirely a lost cause. Let's head in this direction.

[ Dion gestures to the right. ]

And keep an eye out for any remarkable rocks.

[Joshua nods. He glances towards the collection of rocks and then walks that way to start searching for any discernable thing. A chest? A mount of dirt they have to shovel out? A weird tree?]

Hmm. I do not see anything that might contain our treasure just yet...

[ This is definitely a game and neither Dion nor Joshua are winning. ]

I'm sure someone finds this very amusing, but it is not me.

[It is a bit frustrating... But he does find it just a little bit amusing that Dion is so frustrated.]

Fear not, Bahamut. We're surly bound to hit a snag soon.

[Speaking of which ... There is a glimmer of something metal stuck in the sand just up ahead.]

[ It is fortunate for Joshua that Dion likes him and will forgive him his mirth at his expense. Only Joshua. Anyone else is likely to get a tongue lashing. ]

I'm not afraid. I am merely pointing out that this is someone's twisted idea of a game, seems like.

[He lets out a small soft laugh. He truly was only teasing.

But... he has to also agree.]

Perhaps that's our fate. Something tells me we'll have more adventures like this one.

[Joshua heads over to the sand and toes it with his boot. There he seems to knock at a wooden something.]

I think I've found something.

How exciting. [ That is sarcasm at its finest. ]

Allow me to assist you, Phoenix.

[ Dion crouches down and starts digging through the sand around the wooden chest, presumably. Or it's a piece of driftwood. Who knows. It's probably a chest. ]

[He smiles in return. And he also helps Dion by getting down to help him scoop through the sand as well. If they're persistent they will uncover ... a chest!

And inside it will be two sets of things. Dion's armour and Joshua's gear. And magically out pops their weapons as well even if they don't look they would fit in a box. Out pops a lance and a longsword with a satisfying pop.]

... Fascinating and charming in a way, isn't it?

I will admit, I hadn't considered that to be possible.

[ The chest is way too small for both of their belongings. Dion collects his armour, organizing it into a neat pile. ]

This will be for more comfortable.

Perhaps we did have some luck on our side, after all.

[He will very gratefully take his gear and his sword.]

I feel more myself already.

STARTER SHIPS: ORIENTATION

ELTRUT: FIRST GLIMPSE

QUESTS

The Port Arc, B

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