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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 received invitations from the mods can actually reserve on October 25th and apply on November 1st. Our EMP/ATP can be found here.

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 the IC dates of October 11 for new arrivals to appear, and October 25th until the end of the month for the event itself. 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 29)

GETTING STARTED

This section can be timed for any time after October 11th 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 serve 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. The crews for both ships will also seem a bit odd to some, as it is a mix of humans and various animal folk, non-humans that look more animal than human. Some just look like large versions of their smaller counterparts. From birds, to seals, to even bears, there is no shortage of interesting faces and people on 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 lookout 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

Each year, during the month when the Ghoul's Moon rises, its reddish glow illuminating the waves like blood on water, the spirits of the dead gather at the edge of the tide and their spiritual energy reaches its peak. During this monthly period, spirits and ghosts seem to be most active, dancing and playing in the dark and searching for the last ship they will ride in their journey over the ocean to reach their final resting place. Spirits are powerful and energetic enough that are able to appear in their living corporeal forms and appear as living, breathing people. Or they are able to walk the earth as they once saw themselves. Even if some of their memories of those lost years might be hazy.

The Leviathans and surrounding islands are bright with festive colours and lights so that these spirits may find their way in the dark and shadows. Even Eltrut gets into the festive spirit, "shaking off" its shell to reveal a pumpkin form with a natural glow like a lantern. Celebrations are ripe with music, dancing and good old merriment to see them through.

This year’s Ghoul’s Moon celebrations includes a Farmer’s Market that is situated at the main pier. Locals, farmers, and merchants from near and far away have gathered to the market to sell their handmade goods for autumn, selling anything from fresh grown fruits and vegetables, to pickled jars of eggs, beans and beets. To dried moose jerky and cuts of fresh steaks and cured sausages and tasty cheeses. Don’t forget the homemade soaps, knitted hats and mittens, ribbons, jewels, weapons, fashion accessories and more! Riftfarers are also encouraged to take up their own booths and to sell their own goods and services to the festival goers as well!

🥤 Spooky boba challenge. One of the many market booths is holding a challenge to go along with their seasonal boba drinks (like pumpkin spice!). Several boba drinks are sold with floating pumpkin jellies, candy worms, bat-shaped tapioca pearls and ghost-shaped candies. The add-ons themselves are various random unknown flavours that might take the drinker by surprise. Some might taste like sour lemons, while another might taste like spicy chili peppers. If anyone can drink the entire boba without making a face, they’ll be rewarded with a coupon for a free boba with a very normal flavour.

🎃 Pumpkin collecting. One of the local pumpkin farmers has brought a boatload of pumpkins to the market for the season. But instead of just picking out what pumpkin to buy, the pumpkins have been scattered in a random pattern across a dark grassy patch. With only a few dim lanterns to help, try and collect as many pumpkins in the dark as needed. Just be careful not to trip on the various magical pumpkin vines in the patch that might try to trip others on purpose.

🍬 Candy treat exchange. There are various vendors selling all sorts of seasonal homemade candies and sweets. A little game has appeared between the vendors that if a candy or sweet is bought from one vendor that it should be traded with another person who bought from a different vendor. Buy some candy corns, milk chocolates or fruit lollipops and exchange them with friends to collect the whole set of candies available. And eat them all, too!

🐈‍ Black kitten spirits. The market is a bustling little zone that isn’t free from pesky Ghoul’s Moon spirits. A gaggle of mischievous black kitten spirits are haunting various booths and vendors, stealing items and scratching at things that aren’t theirs. They seem to be so small they fit in one hand, so they are hard to spot! The market vendors are asking others to keep a look-out for them. And to catch them with little wicker baskets, if possible!

🍏 Bunnyfish bobbing. One of the booths selling fresh apples is offering a little “apple" bobbing challenge with a twist! While blindfolded and handcuffed (it was a corsair’s idea), use only your mouth to catch a Bunnyfish bobbing in a bucket of freezing ice water. If a flopping Bunnyfish can be picked up, the vendor will offer an apple smothered in candy caramel and peanuts as a reward! Sweet-sour apples can be purchased by the basket as well.

🧴 Potions & lotions. A beauty guru has a special market booth where she is offering various potions and lotions for a price. These products are boasted to be mood enhancers. Including potions or topical lotions that will increase happiness, confidence or love. While other offer to enhance moods such as anger, sadness or hate. Because there might be someone out there who needs a potion like that. The effects of these products last for about twelve hours. For a little extra excitement, she can give you a potion or lotion at random. They’re also very hydrating!

While there are traditional festival game booths and food stalls scattered all through the main roads of Eltrut, there are special activities set up just outside of town available. A haunted corn maze out in the fields where the volunteers try to scare participants and the corn seems to shift and move to change the layout, but those who make it through will enjoy some corn ribs. Bubble races where participants go on a wild, tumbling ride down a giant hill while inside a giant bubble shaped either as pumpkins or skulls and referred to as "pubble" and "skubble" respectively. Try not to get popped early! Haunted hayrides for a thrilling adventure through the woods that end at an old haunted manor that will leave everyone screaming. And for a bit of a thirst quencher, try some Pumpkin Nog, which comes either with or without spiced rum, this alcoholic treat will warm up anyone with just a few sips.

On the night of the 31st, fireworks will go off to signal the end of the festival. Until then, it's an almost week-long festival for everyone to have fun and celebrate those who have passed.

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 pumpkin 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.

This year, the theme of the masquerade is Haunted Funeral Wedding. A strange theme that mixes the formality and dress of weddings, but with a side of macabre as it is implied it is a wedding after death. Those who participate will be required to wear formal wear that can be from modern to regency ballroom, but one' s entire appearance must have an "undead" look: ghostly, ghastly, bloody, zombie, mummy, etc. It can be as tasteful or as gruesome and hideous as they want. Wedding styled gowns are also allowed. Many boutiques will offer costumes either to rent or buy 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.

🎭 Masked dance partners. While some may already have a dedicated partner, there is a special enchantment that will be cast on all masks that will mask one's identity. There will even be a portion where everyone will be matched up at random with a dance partner. With only dance skills and voice alone, dance the night away or enjoy a song or two with a stranger. Perhaps it will be a chance to find a new friend or a new romantic interest.

🍹 Drunk pirate. There is a truth and lies drinking game offered to drinking adults. For everyone participating, they must share one random unique fact about themselves and the others must decide if the fact is the truth or a lie. If the guesser is wrong, they have to take a shot of straight coconut vodka. Start getting to know each other and start getting drunk like good pirates do!

🥇 Costume contest. Whether they volunteer or not, couples will find themselves suddenly tagged for the costume contest and shuffled into a special staging area where they will need to act out their costume and perform a themed dance. All participants will also receive a temporary enchantment to make their costumes more "realistic" to improve their performance.

🪶 Dancing in the air. Dancers will be "blessed"—or perhaps cursed?—to experience the ghostly wonder of flying while dancing, either within the main ballroom or even just outside on the terraces and gardens. While those in the ballroom can go as high as the ceiling, those outside will only venture up a few feet, so no one will find themselves flying off to sea. Some may find themselves a little transparent at times, but the warmth shared with their partners is still very real.

💐 Boo-quets. Create hauntingly beautiful bouquets that can be used either for the weddings or funerals that are taking place around the masquerade. Or perhaps make one as a gift for a loved one. Just make sure the flowers picked are the less "screeching" kind…or won't whisper dark, embarrassing secrets.

Outside the Helice Palace are special gardens that one can take a romantic stroll around and host hauntingly beautiful weddings under the blood moon. They 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. This year, the flowers in particular fit the theme, with bloody red and black roses and some should be wary as the flowers may be even scream out or whisper eerie tidings. A number of tombstones also fill the area. Perfect for creating a haunting ambience to cling onto each other.

👰 Wedding jitters. While some may have fun with the "undead wedding" concept and pretend to get hitched, there are some spirits who are taking this opportunity to make the vows they were unable to while living. However, even ghosts can feel nervous and some are having cold feet, hiding in dark corners while their awaiting partners are left searching for them. Help the couple before their negative feelings turn them into more hateful spirits throwing ghost hands.

😍 Possessed lovers. Some ghosts desperate to find their "eternal love" will latch onto living "grooms" or "brides," regardless if they are already spoken for not. While some will retreat if confronted, others may prove more stubborn, perhaps even try to force their "betrothed" to the altar. Then there are the rare few that must be dealt with—ghosts that will take to possessing the lover or who they think is the lover of someone. In this scenario, their acting may be good or bad, and some may just want to help spur on relations while others have more nefarious plans to steal the other's soul. One big tell for who is possessed is the eyes of the victim will have red hearts in their eyes. To save the victim, try one of the following methods: 1) throw "purified wine" at the victim; 2) throw "purified rice" at the victim; 3) ring the special bells found on tables right in their ear three times; 4) try and help fulfill their desire (suitable for non-dangerous spirits); 5) kiss them; 6) punch them.

🕯️ Weeping candles. As part of the theme, special candles can be lit either in the halls outside the ballroom or out in the gardens in remembrance of those who passed. When lit, the melting wax looks like tears, and the crackling flame sounds like quiet sobs—and the fumes may make those nearby cry as well. These candles are especially useful in helping lingering ghosts pass on.

⚰️ Floating coffins. There are special coffins set outside in various locations outside the palace. Large enough for two to ~~sleep~~ fit in comfortably, they are "open casket" though a lid can be pulled over for those who want some extra privacy. These coffins can also float through the gardens, allowing for a special private view while being closer to the red moon.

Whether one is deciding to pledge their eternal vows or not, some party crashers in the name of Captain Salt's Lonely Hearts Crew will appear, and they are different from the same crew that appeared in Latrommi— all of the ghoulish, ghastly kind. Only those of the undead will rush in, but because of the setting, not many will actually believe they will do harm and in fact some of the lonelier guests and ghosts may take them as a partner. But for the more determined, there will once again be some bride and/or groom abductions, be they dead or alive. Best to thwart their efforts or some weddings will turn into funerals.

GHOST PROBLEMS

All threads for these prompts are worth 4pts.

On the edge of the watery world of Escordvi, where the horizon blurs between sea and sky, tales of the Farplane echo through the salty winds. This underworld, a shadowy mirror of the living seas, is where the souls of the departed find their final resting place, guided by the spectral hand of Envoy Jades and his ship, The Asmodeous. The Farplane, this is where the spirits and ghosts can spend the rest of their eternity in the bliss they choose.

Envoy Jades, with his tattered coat and a gaze that pierces through the veil of life and death, has sailed the seas for as long as anyone can remember. He sings old sea shanties and sleeping lullabies as he makes his rounds collecting souls. And while his appearance is ghoulish and grave, it is said that his presence is kind and encouraging, often coaxing ghosts to enjoy their last days in celebration in the realm of the living before taking his ship to embark on their final journey. The ship, said to be forged from the remnants of sunken galleons and woven with the souls of the lost and found, sails the seas like a looming ghostly shadow all month long. It is said that those who witness the ship's passage may catch a glimpse of their own fate, as their reflections ripple through the water.

However there is a bit of a problem. Those out and about need to be careful as there are many restless and vengeful spirits about. Many are harmless and are out to play pranks, however there are some who may have grudges and can be dangerous, even possessing people. The following methods are known to work to help those who are possessed: 1) help fulfill their desire; 2) beat them down; 3) find some "blessed" water or relic to expel the ghost (many will be sold around the festival but whether they are real or fake is a hit or miss); 4) dunk the person in the ocean. Once released, help capture the ghost and bring it to the shore where Envoy Jades can collect the wayward soul.

👻💀 Ghostly possessions. Be careful not to be possessed by ghosts that are obsessed with love who will make the person possessed do anything and everything to find love, even if it means hurting someone. Or ghosts with a very opposite personality compared to the possessed, which will make them act how they normally wouldn’t act. Or even ghosts that used to be dangerous or murderous that will possess others and make them want to murder someone too. Ghost possession can be any and all sorts, from dangerous to playful.

🧜 Mermaid ghosts. Ghosts of mermaids that perished in a terribly violent way are around and swimming about various docks and boats looking for unsuspecting victims to attack. These mermaids look half-eaten and angry and will attack anyone on sight and try and take a bite out of them in return. Be careful when docking and escape while you still have all your limbs. Trying to fight a ghost-mermaid-zombie off could be tricky.

👻 A dead man. A familiar looking ghost of a man once alive is wandering about demanding that his seamstress be returned to him. He keeps blathering on and on about how he owns his woman and that no one can take her away from him and that she is his to control. With a closer look, this ghost’s neck is ripped open so he has a hard time speaking clearly and his angry ugly shouts come out as wheezes and growls. Most believe this delusional ghost doesn’t deserve to be around, so find a way to destroy or send it away.

🌹 Emberbloom victims. Many of the lost ghosts wandering about are ghosts that carry beautiful red and orange flowers that look like the bright sunset. These ghosts are the departed spirits of murdered people that were buried on the Leviathan, Elah. These ghosts seem happy enough to be wandering about once again but they also seem sad that they never found their true love to give their flower to. Help these ghosts find their true love (Maybe it’s you? Maybe it’s someone else?) and help them give their ghostly sunset flower to another.

🐄 Bull ghost. A massive skeletal bull ghost is also out and about wandering the lands. It doesn’t seem particularly aggressive or violent, even if it looks like it could stomp on someone and kill them instantly. Actually, it seems quite nice and likes to listen to love songs. Try avoiding a fight and sing him something pretty instead.

🎃 Pumpkaboos. Little pumpkin-like ghost spirits are dancing and playing all over the Leviathans and the surrounding islands. These little spooks are playful and sweet and enjoy lighting the way for people walking around in the dark and are said to be spirit guides that lead ghosts to Envoy Jades’s ship. But while sweet, be careful, as these little spirits are able to hypnotize others and can control them to do their little pranks and harmless bidding. But they mostly want to play.

Every now and then, The Asmodeus will appear on the shores of Eltrut and other places that are having issues with ghosts. Although the ship may appear dark and dangerous, it will only appear to only collect the roaming spirits nearby before departing. It will remain active until dawn, and once the ship has been loaded with the spirits ready to depart, it fades away on the ocean’s horizon.

However, The Asmodeus should be mistaken for the ghostly ship that attacked Eltrut’s shores last year. In fact, while also collecting the wayward spirits, when it's off in distant waters, its speed picks up and seems to be searching…perhaps for this very ship that has not been seen since last Ghoul's Moon.

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.

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 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!

Message in a Bottle

Everywhere

It’s a popular tradition to write a handwritten message and put it in a bottle and to send it out to sea. Sometimes messages come back with written responses. Sometimes they don’t! But writing a message can be a very therapeutic or fun thing to do. It might net the writer a few new pen pals or some well needed anonymous advice. Pen a letter, place it in a glass bottle and release it into the ocean's waves to see what happens. And be sure to respond to any bottles you find, too!

Plundering Pumpkins

Everywhere

There’s been a rumour going around that wearing a mask crafted from a carved pumpkin is an effective countermeasure to scare away ghosts. Demand for pumpkins has thus spiked all month, and farmers are struggling to keep up with demand. Some people are willing to pay a very high price for people to, ahem, acquire pumpkins from the local farms for them, while farmers will pay with coin and free produce to any who will help guard their crops for harvest.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

I. A Potion for Everything (Except Poisons)

[Coming across the potions and lotions vendor, Minthara had actually thought she might have found one of the first few things she truly believed was practical. It was a thought that was soundly and thoroughly quashed in mere breaths and exchanges of conversation.]

A plethora of vials and not a one poison.

[The drow nigh scoffed, characteristic displeasure and unimpressed demeanour writ down along her expression. The potions of anger, however, potentially could have proven themselves useful, despite poison being something so much more the satisfactory.]

II. Masked in Silhouetted Shadow

[She saw House Baenre in the reflections of the masquerade. The ostentatious flutter of grandiose touch. The very air itself reminding her of days and nights in the Underdark. Of prestige and lineage. Of a world she would never be able to return to.

It made her want to hiss, but for a night, she could remember who once she was in full and not who she was now above the ground. Where she would have been more comfortable in wear of her own kind, of her own familiarity, Minthara had begrudgingly accepted dress code, coughing up necessity to temporarily dress in ghoulish garb.]

Move, or I shall move you.

[To a likely innocent party. To the point. Sharp. Not particularly malevolent, simply a pragmatic woman with more on her mind than joyful dances. Of course, anyone on the receiving end of blade-like words was not necessarily to think the same.]

III. Wildcard

[Everything else goes here. Hash out plans here or via DM. Minthara probably will not bite unless that is your desire.]

[Gale has encountered a number of familiar faces during his time here, many of whom have vanished just as quickly as they had appeared, and most of them he has considered to be friendly— but coming across Minthara in the market is a first, to be certain, and while he has made efforts to be personable in the past, he cannot say whether she would consider him to be a friendly face. That depends on any number of things— but even under the best possible circumstances in which their experiences align, he would hazard a guess that she likely thinks him tolerable at best. Even that may be optimistic, but all the same, he does not have it in him to simply continue on his way.

He clears his throat softly as he comes to a pause a few feet from the stall in question. His own experiences with potions in this place have made him wary of assuming that anything in a bottle would be as advertised.]

Perhaps she has something of that nature in backstock.

[A jest, perhaps, but— only in part, really. Should he be considering advising Minthara that poison may not be terribly hard to find?

Perhaps not.]

You're a bit far from home, Minthara.

[He brings with him pleasant information, which is... practical, even coming from the mouth that airs it. The man enjoys hearing himself speak, likely enamoured with his thoughts and ideals. Delusions of grandeur. What person in his position would not? Magic wielding, throwing individuals, driven to mad joy over their own self-absorbed accomplishments.

For some moments, she considers not even addressing him, which might not be so different from what a normal day, afternoon, evening might be like in their 'home away from home.' (Read: camp.) Finally, without looking away from the collection of vials that she has been perusing as a means of wasting her time, she speaks up.]

Wizard.

[She didn't ask for your input, Gale.]

Gale.

[He stresses his name in clarifying; he knows she has not forgotten it, but it's probably in his best interest to keep all such reminders as to his preference polite. He is, after all, a gentleman— as often as he can afford to be. Whether or not that improves the likelihood of her using it... he supposes that remains to be seen.]

Talkative as ever, I see! I should have known that not even a journey through the rifts would be enough to break your stride for even a moment.

[Same difference.

When it occurs to her that he will, in fact, not be leaving her to her own devices, Minthara draws her fixed gaze from the amalgamation of happy-go-lucky trinkets onto him. Is there a reason he would think her to be different? He hardly seems anything but the wizard she's had the displeasure of knowing.]

I was unaware you thought anything of my strides. A circumstance changes not the being.

[With a hand, she motions towards him indicatively. Ought to be obvious what she's getting at.]

[He withers for the space of a single heartbeat, fallen expression there and gone so quickly that it is nearly imperceptible. He had, not long after Minthara had joined their number, declared that he was certain she would warm up to him in time.

It is clear that he will still be waiting a good long while before that happens.]

I think a great deal of each one of our companions, as a matter of fact.

[Even those who do not seem to think particularly well of him. If all they have in that mess back home is one another, he's always thought they ought to make the most of it. The bridge of his nose scrunches in response to that wave— indeed, he knows precisely what it is she means to say.]

There is no reason I shouldn't see the best in each among our number.

[Sera had gotten into the spirit of things and was rubbing a random lotion sample into her hands (obviously the 'emotional essence' thing was just about the scent or something. Obviously.) as the oddly-shaded elf next to her muttered to herself. Sera was familiar with potions, she liked potions. She could make potions without magical nonsense. Same with poisons. At least normally she could.]

None of the rot they have makes sense- not a bit of elf root on the continent. 'Least they still got bees.

[She can agree with that. Making sense? Nothing here does. Fortunately, Minthara has had just enough time to make some kind of uneasy peace with that. And that is a kinder way of putting the truth. Getting angry about it, trying to change it forcefully, none of that will work. She is at a disadvantage and she recognises that.]

Bees.

[The furrow in her eyebrows is transparent enough. Her gaze draws onto Sera and for several moments, she merely assesses in her quiet.]

Explain.

Put 'em in a jar, shake 'em up, then swish!

[She mimics throwing a jar up in the air, right towards what would have been a very unfortunate shop lady if it were real.]

Every place's got stinging bugs. Can't make lightenin' in a bottle here, but still got that.

Ah. A great deal of effort for seconds of possible satisfaction.

[A minute part of her can admit that watching someone else be swarmed by bees might be... humorous, at the very least. Not as satisfying as poison or a knife puncturing the skin, of course. Not even a close second.]

I would not find the action of gathering stinging insects to be a particularly worthy use of my time.

Eh, ain't so bad. The faces the baddies make, though? Priceless. Even if you don't want 'em dead, they know you saw them shit their britches.

[She sighs a little, looking off into the distance. Dreaming of days not so long past.]

But look at you. All proper noble-like and an elf. Where're you from?

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menzoberranzan - 2024-10-20 01:26 (UTC) - Expand

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arsebiscuit - 2024-10-20 01:38 (UTC) - Expand

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menzoberranzan - 2024-10-20 18:51 (UTC) - Expand

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arsebiscuit - 2024-10-20 23:27 (UTC) - Expand

[Twilight had been minding his own business perusing the various wares of the potion vendor at the moment when a rather intriguing looking woman the likes of which he'd never seen came within ear shot. While he had been looking for something with more practical use than the mood altering tonics himself he certainly wasn't expecting to find something as nefarious as poison so readily available to the masses. That was especially so given the festivities at large meant for celebration rather than sinister ploys but he would keep that to himself as he pensively stared at the stranger giving her a quizzical arch of his brow.]

I do not think they would be so willing to advertise the likes of poison especially with children wandering about miss.

[A hand cupping his chin as he glimpses through the vendor's wares once more with an exasperated sigh not finding what he was looking for either. Fantasy tales had often led him to believe invisibility potions and their likeness were a possibility which would certainly come in handy in a pinch. Not that he didn't pride himself in his stealth skills as a veteran spy but you never know when you might need to completely disappear from view instantaneously.]

Unfortunately I'm afraid they do not have what I am searching for either.

Children should hardly make a difference.

[The drow are an untrustworthy collective without question, and in the face of that, Minthara would still consider her upbringing to be a superior one. As a result of her own childhood experiences in tandem with her other life misadventures, she is a strong, formidable woman. All worthy children should have the same opportunity extended to them. And that they would think to hide poisons and other such things deemed a danger says much about what they would think of offspring.

Why even have them, at that point.

She doesn't bother to correct him. Was she truly looking? If anything, merely information gathering. How unwise it would be to show all of the cards she holds (which, to be frank, are few at this time). Eyeing him, she can deduce... little about his person. Except that he does not strike her as someone from her world. Perhaps not even one like it.]

Their mercantile lacks for two already. A poor excuse for a tradesman, then.

[Her initial rebuttal causes Twilight to tilt his head curiously, own powers of deduction as the worlds foremost spy leading him to believe the woman came from a harsh upbringing if this was her rationale. The brash attitude that went along with it was another indication the stranger had no sympathy for the weak, a warrior perhaps back where she was from given her choice of attire? It was evident she came from a place with unparalleled differences to his own, maybe one similar to this given her manner of speech, prim and proper but unlike the aristocracy of Ostania or Westalis.

Though he was not phased by her hardened disposition her lack of compassion for the youth caused him internal turmoil, a vexation which garnered a furrowing of his brows in disdain. Twilight has seen what can happen when the strong prey on the weak, countless innocent souls killed in a senseless war of attrition between the neighboring countries of his home, thousands of children left without parents including himself.

Clearly she was not one to be trifled with should things not go according to her grand design but so far she had done nothing to spark his retaliation, guarding her cautiously as he nods in agreement to her latter sentiment.]

Perhaps this was all preordained to cater to the festivities at large? This very well could be a part of their traditions here.

[Trying to be optimistic in the face of adversity while at the same time hopefully rousing content in the dark skinned woman.]

[He is assessing her. She does not need an explanation to know or to recognise it. Minthara is a vain woman, though does not feel the need to preen or peacock herself about. All she is, is on display. Openly. As openly as one need be. A woman of shadows and silhouettes, there are plenty of secrets that she hosts that he need not know.

There is an audacity there, however. She would let no man in the Underdark assess her so. That is hardly the place of men, such fickle little accents of necessity, though perhaps one or two above ground she might consider more than pragmatic implements. At least, by a hair. Fewer still are the men who instil fear into her. A small number, that. The one in front of her doing no such thing. Merely provoking a lack of amusement in ballsy evaluation of her individual and character.

Her attention turns from him back onto the collective of potions with varying points of interest, though she is still listening. Intently.]

Perhaps. [Although whether that is agreement, concession, or something else goes unsaid.] With little to compare it to in this world, it may merely be a fault of the individual rather than the whole. I will reserve further judgement for further observation.

[How charitable of her.]

[If only Minthara knew what was hidden behind the false facade he put forth before the masses, a trained killer who's intellect was equally matched by his combat prowess with both weaponry and hand to hand combat. The persona he adopted for his current mission of Operation Strix, one Loid Forger was a man of kindness, family oriented who would do anything to see to both his darling daughter and beloved wife's happiness. It was not wholly untrue, Twilight beginning to take a fondness for his Forger counterparts but at the end of the day they were just a necessity to achieve his assignment. Once the task was done he would have to abandon this newfound life of kinship, for a spy could not openly risk the lives of civilians without cause.

Clearly his astute observation did little to rectify her discernment, Twilight frowning somewhat as she looks towards the vendor once more. Picking up one of the happiness potions he thought this could perhaps be of use to her given the sour disposition but would not say such in fear of her rebuttal thinking better of it. However; Her response does cause him to cock a brow with intrigue, tapping pointer finger to his chin quizzically as he puts forth his question.]

I take it that means you are new to this world as well then?

[At 6'3" Darin absolutely can be seen as someone who gets in the way. He's currently dressed in torn, tattered, formal knight's attire with the front torn open to reveal a bone white leather harness made to look like an exposed rib cage.]

[He turns, arching an eyebrow.]

You know, I'm not really good at asking people to dance but I gotta say, I could probably do better than that.

[He's not moving.]

[Some would say that Minthara does all things with intimidation. Others might say she is the funniest person they know. What she can declare is that Darin is no Ketheric Thorm. He is no Orin the Red. Somehow, she feels bolstered in acknowledging both of those things. What can this tattered knight do unto a woman like herself?

Nothing, she arrogantly decides.

Looking unamused, her initial reaction would ordinarily be to simply reach for weapon at her back and brandish it. But things work differently here, for some reason. She can think of a few people who would love to see that she's, for the time being, put in her place. Not inclined to immediately make use of brute force to get her way.]

Then, by all means.

[Stiffly, she motions with the movement of a limber arm, more elegant than perhaps someone who looks like her would appear to be. There are likely no shortage of those he could dance with. She. Is not one of them.]

Waaaait a second. If I ask you to dance, you're not planning on turning me down to 'put me in my place' or something, are you?

[He crosses his arms over his barreled chest with a bemused smirk playing at his lips. Whoever this was, she seemed to have a very high opinion of herself. Darin wasn't about to offer to dance with someone who'd just shoot him down to make him look dumb!]

[This is the dumbest game of 4-D chess and Darin might be the only one playing it.]

Or are you playing that 'hard to get' thing?

[This single conversation is more than reason enough for why Menozoberranzan is a matriarchal society and why men are treated as things.]

That was not an offer.

[That he even implies it draws a plain distaste across what features of her face can even be seen. Perhaps once or twice Minthara has danced. Perhaps. Would she even admit to it? Unlikely. Information about her seems to be best utilised when it remains with her.]

I was implying that there are a great many others here for you to preoccupy yourself with.

There are but the funny thing is?

I’m not a dancer.

[He laughs at his own joke and holds a hand out.]

Name’s Darin. Darin Altway. Master Blacksmith and forgemaster of the Starmetal Forge in Elyria. Nice t’meet you!

[Whether Minthara takes his hand or not, he continues.]

If you’re not here to dance, what brings you here?

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( there had very nearly been a collision. maybe it could be attributed to the fact that karlach was incredibly tall even for a tiefling or maybe the fact that this room is almost packed to the walls with guests. either way, she almost bumps into the smaller woman.

almost.

but almost didn't mean shit, so karlach didn't appreciate that tone being taken with her. )

You wanna say that again—Wait! Minthara?

( her tone changes instantly upon recognition, from sharp to brightening with excitement. she knows that voice, knows that shape. )

Is that you? Are you well?

( how long had she been here? )

[One more recognisable face. An improvement over a wizard, though perhaps that is setting the proverbial bar rather low by comparison. Karlach is an impressively intimidating woman. Unafraid. Unabashed. There are a great number of things to admire in such an individual.

It does not take more than a breath or two for Minthara's attention to turn. The voice. The particular tone. The address. She would not dare utter it, but when comparing to the plethora of possibilities, of alternatives, Karlach is welcome.]

Karlach.

[She begins very to the point, a quiet assessment of a woman she would consider... an ally. Begrudging, perhaps, but true regardless.]

Are there more. Other than you and the wizard. [Feeling no need to hide that she will, at the very least, acknowledge Gale's presence even if she continues to choose not to call him by name.]

More from our odd group?

( karlach asks, lips pulling into a smile. there's no mistaking it. that's definitely minthara. karlach would know her sharp tongue and commanding tone anywhere. no one could come close to the real thing for sure. )

No, just the two of us. Me and Gale.

( an easy confirmation. or maybe she ought to have said the three of them? minthara would make three, wouldn't she? and what a welcome addition she would be. her shared home with gale is way too small for just the two of them—they could use more of their trusted companions to fill its rooms. more friendly faces to brighten their days.

and karlach would consider minthara to be a friendly face. she's genuinely happy to see her, even despite the circumstances it's under. )

I'm glad to see you. ( she voices before gesturing to minthara's attire. ) And you look gorgeous in that dress.

[Resplendent parties aren't something Ranma always goes to. On account of the fact it never ends well for him. Usually ends with someone wanting his hand or head, or both. But he also likes cutting loose and enjoying himself.

He did not get dressed as a zombie groom in a blood-red and very constricting suit save for the holes cut in it for reprieve for some lady making demands of him. Instead of heeding Minthara's cutting words, the teen's not budging from his spot. The only movements he made is to turn his back on her, looking over his shoulder with an impassive, faint shit-eating smirk.]

How 'bout you use those legs and move around me? It'd take a lot less effort that way.

[Sorry Minthy, you've got a little shit living up to that moniker here.]

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« october: ghoul's moon 2024 »

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

GHOST PROBLEMS

QUESTS

Minthara Baenre | BG3 | Corsair | TDM

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Lotions and Potions

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I - God if only I had Ketheric here still in-game this would have been WILD.

He's here in spirit, whether Minthy wants him to be or not.

Minthy! The nickname I didn't know I needed for her as my love interest in my evil playthrough. lol

Wish I could take credit. That was my husband's doing.

Amazing.

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Let's Tear Up The Dancefloor (II)