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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

1-A ☾ The Arrival

[Boats. Why did it have to be boats? The drow white knuckled the railing as she emerged from below deck, feeling every little creak the waves made unsettled her stomach. Has she traveled by ship before? Of course. Does that make her dislike it any less? Certainly not. Traveling by water was her least favorite mode of transportation, second only to flying. But whose taste wouldn't be soured when their first experience was in the clutches of a dragon. A story for another time. The under elf much preferred to have her two feet firmly planted on solid ground.

Looking a bit green around the gills, Kolnatha tried to her turn her attention away from the uneasy flipping in her gut. Forcing her thoughts on how she got here, she found herself without her gear. In place of her usual attire was a ratty set of ill fitting tattered clothes. A far cry for the brilliant blue and silver of her heavy chainmail. Her trusty sword and shield was stripped from her as well. The cleric felt naked.

Distracted, the scenery of pulling into port was lost on her. Koh only realized that the ship had stopped moving when the floor boards beneath her feet felt more... sturdy. Where ever they landed, the drow was ready to get off.]

In through the nose.... out through the mouth.

[Koh mutters to herself as she awkwardly inched herself along the gunwale.]

2-B ☾ Masked Strangers

[Standing along the edge of the ballroom floor stood the drow, watching the masked figures round the hall. This marked the first time attending such a elegant event and she was dressed to match. Any excuse to ditch the rags she woke up with. She was fortunate enough to find a place willing to rent her the ghostly white dress that she was now wearing. It looked like she just crawled out of one of those oil paintings one might find in a haunted manor. To match, hiding half of her face was a phantasmic mask.

Ah, dancing. It was something warm and familiar, bringing a smile to the cleric's face, though it was lost behind the mask. Kolnatha didn't need an invitation to join the festivities, slipping seamlessly into the ring of dancers. Drifting from one partner to the next, Koh was dancing for the joy of it, more than dancing with any one person.

There was a lull in the music and the drow took a moment to catch her breath back along the outer rim. That's when she took note of someone standing against one of the walls. She distinctly remembered seeing them standing there before she made her way to the floor. It had been several songs since then and they still hadn't move. She should fix that, shouldn't she?

Koh made her way over to the masked stranger, beaming under her own.]

You have been standing there awhile. Care to dance with me?

[She held out a hand to them.]

3-C ☾ Dance in the Gardens

[Stepping away from the crowded ballroom, the under elf had slipped away to get some fresh air. She has perched herself long a hip high stone fence that over looked the winding hedge maze. With no one around, Koh had removed her mask to rest it on the ledge beside her. Even with the exquisite garden that outstretched before her, Koh's eyes were pulled upward to peer up at the blood moon that shimmered high in the night sky. The soft beams felt cold against the exposed skin of her face and shoulders when normally it filled her with warmth. Under the light of the moon, there was no trace of the Dark Maiden. Now only an icy pit was seated in her chest. It was only then did the weight of being truly alone sunk in.

Still, her toes twitched with the urge to dance, as if she hadn't had her fill already. Sliding off the wall, Koh takes a few hesitant steps forward out into an open space between the roses. The skirts of her dress flared out as she turned sharply to deeply bow to an invisible partner. Raising up she held her arms gracefully over head and paused as if waiting for a silent cue. Starting out soft and slow, Koh began to hum a song to herself. Moving in time with the music, she spun in elegant arcs all orbiting an imaginary point. The soft sheer material of her dress caught the shimmery dim light, outlining her figure with a gentle haze. The melody was hauntingly somber, tinged with a glimmer of hope. It carried out over the garden as she danced to an audience of one.

Feeling the rhythm, the cleric closed her eyes and as she did so, the tattoo her new eight armed friend gave her began to glitter. Little beads of light lifted from the mark leaving wispy trails in her wake. More and more of the tiny specks of light gathered together like a thousand fireflies, forming a ghostly drowish maidenly figure. It danced behind Koh like an echo. Around and around the pair circled each other until the song came to its natural end. Again, the cleric paused to give another bow, but this time to the spectral form. As it returned the favor the light that composed it dissipated, drifting skyward to flickered out against the darkened sky.

The cool of the the evening air returned and once again, the drow was alone. Or so she thought.]

4-D ☾ Wild Card

[Anything at the festival you liked? Or even some of the quests? Tried to limit myself on the amount of prompts to write, but I am down for anything. For more details about Koh and who she is, you can find that in her information page. I don't really use my plurk, but I do have one. Feel free to DM here or ask for my Discord.]

[It was hardly unusual for Gale to find himself on the sidelines at events like these— he could dance, certainly, and had been lured onto the floor by a friend or two over the course of the evening already, but he often found himself so easily caught up in conversation or the simple pleasure of people-watching that dancing was occasionally forgotten. Of course, there was also the matter of sampling whatever refreshments have been provided, though he's been a bit more judicious about such things this year— the impact the previous year's food and drink had left on him would not soon be forgotten, and while he does believe they all deserve to cut loose and enjoy the evening, he would rather do so with his faculties fully intact.

Mostly. He had allowed himself to enjoy the wine, naturally; his weakness for a good glass was too great to pass up the opportunity, though he had inspected it thoroughly before partaking. He happens to be enjoying said wine near one of the many alcoves at the edge of the ballroom and fondly looking out over the assembled crowd when Kolnatha approaches, his attention elsewhere until she voices her offer. He looks mildly startled beneath his plain black mask when he turns his attention towards her, elaborate costume makeup beneath it obscuring the upper half of his face entirely before fading out, weathered just as the plum-colored suit he's wearing appears to be.]

Have I? Caught up in the spectacle, I'm afraid.

[His response is warm, the momentary startle easing quickly.]

What sort of gentleman would I be if I turned down such an offer? Of course, it would be my pleasure.

[He proceeds to set his glass of wine aside, offering her a shallow bow.]

It is quite the sight. I can safely say that I have not seen the likes of this before.

[The drow momentarily lets her gaze linger back over her shoulder to take in the room once more. In all her travels across Faerûn, this was her first being in attendance to a haunted ball. Not that she stayed in one place long enough to be invited to such an event.

Turning her attention back to the man before her, seeing him offer her a polite bow cracked a smile on her face. She wasn't sure if it was the mask or simply the people here not knowing what she was, but all the same it was refreshing having people not bristle at the sight of her. It had only been a short time here, but she has already seen far more bizarre creatures than herself.

Koh gave him a small bow in kind before she reached out to gently take him by the hand. While there was still a lull in the music, she found them an empty space towards the center of the room. Pausing, she shifts to face him and took a step closer to the masked man. Yet keeping a respectful distance between them, she raised her hand to place it softly on his shoulder as she took his hand in the other, getting ready in a waltz position.]

Would it be ill mannered to ask for your name at a masquerade? I am uncertain if there are rules on the matter.

Admittedly, though I've seen my share of such gatherings, I can't say I've ever seen one with this particular theme before— it's rather unique, don't you think?

[He allows himself to be lead easily; his opportunities to dance have been further and fewer between these last few years, but thankfully, he hasn't forgotten himself entirely. He adjusts as they find a place to claim as their own on the floor, taking her hand properly and letting the other come to rest against her waist to lead— he's almost certain he remembers how to do that, especially after fumbling through it a time or two earlier in the evening.

Her question gives him pause for a moment, his smile quirking thoughtfully to one side as he considers.]

You raise an interesting point. I don't know that it would be considered ill-mannered, and I certainly have nothing to hide, but considering the spirit of the occasion, we do have an opportunity not to be ourselves, if we so wish.

[As the music for one song dies down and the next begins, he inclines his head slightly and begins to lead.]

[Taking his lead, she mulled over the man's words as they took a turn around the room. He did bring up a good point. In the spirit of the evening, one could choose hide behind the mask. But what did she have to find from? Even if she did reveal herself, her name would mean nothing to him.

Her head tilts slightly to the side in a thoughtful hum, again her smile was lost behind the false face.]

That is true. But who else would I want to be? I have always been stubbornly myself. Even when it was probably smart to pretend otherwise. Do you wish to be someone else?

Well, I wouldn't go that far.

[With some exceptions— or perhaps it depended on the day— Gale rather liked himself, or made the effort to do so. It was more challenging lately than it had once been, but he's not certain he would want to be anyone else, not in truth.]

I can see the game of it having something of an appeal, but all told, I would prefer to remain myself, for better or worse.

[There's warmth in his gaze even beneath the stark black mask and smudged makeup, and he finds that chatting keeps him from being too concerned about the steps, allowing himself to lead largely by muscle memory.]

Gale of Waterdeep, at your service.

[Waterdeep? There was a glitter of recognition behind those pale eyes. How funny fate was. Out of everyone she approached, it was someone who hailed from Faerûn.]

Waterdeep, the Crown of the North. [The drow commented under her breath.] I know of it. I have never been but I have heard the tales.

[Well, since he have given her his title, she felt it rude not to answer in kind. Part of her wanted to play coy and give him only offer up the name she had adopted for herself. If she wasn't currently engaged in a dance with the man, she would of had given him a polite bow. So instead, she nods her nod in response.]

Pleasure to meet you, Gale of Waterdeep. Kolnatha Shavval of everywhere and nowhere, yours for the asking.

I thought you might be another riftfarer from Faerûn!

[These seas have certainly seen no shortage of such visitors, and while it's entirely possible that other worlds have people who look much like her own, he knows a drow when he sees one. Given her friendly approach, he had no reason to think anything of it beyond the fact that they might have familiar origins, though it does make him realize just how long it's been since he's seen either Kimmuriel or Jarlaxle.

Friends came and went quite easily in this place, for better or for worse.

Her response causes one corner of his smile to quirk upwards, amused, and he lets out a chuckle as he carefully steers them out of the path of another pair of dancers.]

Well, if you've ever the opportunity, I highly recommend visiting! At length, if you can manage it; Waterdeep's title is well-earned, and has much to offer all who pass through its gates. The pleasure is mine, of course, Miss Shavval.

Riftfarer... [Koh repeats to herself thoughtfully. So, that's the name given to the poor souls who find themselves stranded here. There was a soft hum of understanding before it turned into a snorting chuckle.] Oh? Was I that obvious? Well, I did say that I was stubbornly myself.

[If he hailed from Faerûn, there was more than a fair chance he could deduce what she was. Drow had very distinct characteristics that was hard to conceal. Not that she made an effort to do so. There was not way with his keen senses that who she was escaped him as she approached him for a dance. Not all people she had ran into during her travels had greeted her with mistrust, though it was a common occurrence. It wasn't like her kin was doing anything to gain favor among the other races. So his openness intrigued her.]

I will add it to the list. Right now, my lifestyle doesn't allow for much leisure time. I don't stay in one place for too long these days. However, if you are ever in need of healing touch, I'm happy to lend a hand.

[The hand that rested on his shoulder, the cleric drummed the tips of her finger against fabric of his suit.]

Though... I am uncertain if my abilities still function here. Since arriving I have felt... different.

I've known a few drow in my time, and while I didn't want to assume, you rather did fit the bill.

[Even with her mask in place and the elaborate dress, the obvious tells were still there. Many from their home world would have offered a drow a more reserved greeting, or perhaps been a bit hesitant until they knew they would not be met with hostility, but he has met a fair few who have broken the mold at this point. Wherever Kolnatha hailed from, she was nothing if not personable, and had been the one to approach him to start with— therefore, he had no reason to think she might suddenly turn out to be otherwise.]

You're an adventuring sort, then?

[As much of an observation as it is a question.]

Your abilities, whatever you may specialize in, ought not to be lost to you entirely, but there is a bit of a trick to regaining them— and in the process, you may yet gain access to more. Admittedly, we are far from any of our gods here, and therefore power that relies on them will certainly feel different, but can still be utilized.

[He can certainly still use his full book of spells, but he's almost sure Mystra isn't hearing his incantations from across the rifts. Thank goodness, honestly. The space is welcome, at the moment.]

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( when karlach had stepped into the garden to take a small break from the festivities and get a little cool air, she hadn't been expecting to stumble across another person. much less one lighting up the space between the roses and greenery with countless little orbs and a spectral dance.

but she's sure glad she did. what a show!

karlach breaks the silence after the drow bows with a little cheer and quick applause. )

How beautiful!

( she remarks.

but she still keeps a polite distance. the magic had been beautiful, but it was also familiar. just like her appearance. a drow?

she couldn't help but hope. even if they didn't hit it off, more faces from home were always welcome. )

But wouldn't you like a partner?

( karlach picks at the skirt of her dress, lifting up the hem just a little in an intimation of the weird way she'd seen rich ladies ask for dances inside the ballroom. )

Edited (maybe should actually clarify lol) 2024-10-26 16:02 (UTC)

[The sound of clapping startled the drow and her head snapped around so fast that it almost gave her whip lash. For a moment Koh stood motionless, her pale eyes wide as she stared back at a very large tiefling. Drow weren't known for their stature but Gods, the woman was easily three heads taller than her and appeared that she could toss her over her shoulder like a sack of potatoes.

Oh wait- her mask!

Reaching up, Koh pawed at her naked face, silently cursing to herself. This was meant to be a masked ball, after all. And being able to hide behind it to conceal her embarrassment as it colored the tips of her pointed eyes was just an added bonus.]

My, you startled me. Apologies, I didn't think anyone would be out here.

[Koh head bows slightly, reaching up to tuck the loose strands of hair behind her ear as she spoke. Seeing the tiefling give an awkward curtsy caused a smirk to crack along her lips, fighting so desperately not to let out a snort. Not to be rude, the cleric picked up her own skirts to return the gesture in a graceful sweeping bow.]

Dancing is always better with a partner. You think you can keep up with me?

[She flashed the woman a wide grin as she stood back up. Raising one of her arms up, Koh held it out at an 45 degree angle with her palm flat and paused to wait for the tiefling to mirror her.]

( karlach lets out a quiet, almost breathless laugh.

how cute. especially the part where she gets over her embarrassment well enough to try and challenge karlach. that's a good attitude. a fun attitude even. )

I needed a little air. The ballroom's nice but it's a lot of people.

( she offers in way of explanation. only a certain type of person enjoys being trapped in confined spaces with this many people and it definitely isn't karlach's type of person.

no, she's more of the 'dance in the garden with a magical drow' kind of person. )

Let's go, gorgeous.

( she says with a grin, moving to mirror the stance of her partner with some practiced grace. )

[The smile on the drow's face falters slightly, caught off guard with the tiefling's... friendliness? Yeah, Koh was going to roll with that train of thought. Perhaps that's how she greets everyone? Even so, it didn't prevent the flush that still darkened her pointed ears to creep slowly down to color the apples of her cheeks.

Trying to shake it off, Koh softly cleared her throat.]

Then follow my lead.

[There was a moment of hesitation as the drow moved closer, feeling the heat radiating from the tiefling's arm. With her limited interactions with others, she didn't recall any of them being this warm. The thought passed as quickly as it occurred and she brought her arm the rest of the way, pressing her cool skin against the other's heat. Taking in a breath of air, Koh started to sing the first song that popped into her head.

The first verse starts out easy as Koh moved in a lazy circle, before halfway through she spun around sharply raising her opposite arm to rotate the other direction. The pace quickens with the first chorus as does the intricate footwork the cleric performs with ease. Her muscles committed to the memory of the dance she had done dozens of times before. Raising the tiefling's hand above her own head, she twirled, the skirts of her dress blossoming out like petals. Traditionally, this was where Koh would have done the same to her partner. However, the other woman towered over her renderings it impossible unless she suddenly grew a few extra feet. So in light of this, Koh improvised. Instead of twirling her, the drow spun the tiefling out by her arms before pulling her back in close. All the while, the under elf's gaze never drifted from her, gauging how the other was fairing with half the song left to go.]

( all in all, this night is shaping up to be some of the most fun that karlach has had in ages. while she typically enjoyed the time spent here, out on the open seas and underneath the bright sun, karlach still couldn't touch anyone. not without a fabric barrier, lest she char someone's flesh right down to the bone.

tonight has been a little different. karlach is wearing nothing but a shiny, shimmery, and nearly translucent piece of fabric, some dark body paint along her hands and forearms, and a thick metal collar. jewellery and karlach didn't typically mix, but this one was special. this one had been enchanted with enough ice magic to keep her temperature lower—warm, but not too uncomfortably so—for the duration of the night.

she's gotten to dance with plenty of beautiful women and handsome men for the first time in years upon years.

although none quite like her current partner. nothing so magical.

karlach follows the drow's lead with a degree of grace that belied her huge statue and size. she commits herself to letting the other woman set the pace and movement, mirroring her in a way she has done (in a very different context) plenty of times before. dancing footwork can be a lot like fighting footwork, after all.

she lets herself spin out when motioned for, but on return, she pulls at the drow's arm to further close the distance and dip the other woman before twirling her back out. the smaller flower should get the biggest twirl. )

You always dance like this?

( with an excited huff of breath. )

[Color the drow impressed as she watched her new dance partner keep up with every step. The tiefling was surprising light on her feet despite her tall stature. It had been quite sometime since she had anyone to dance along side with, let alone keep pace to her.

The little dip took Koh by surprise as she lets out a little 'eep' before she got spun out. The light fabric of her dress leaved out like soft petals and Koh couldn't help herself breaking song to laugh. This woman was just full of little surprises, wasn't she?]

Sadly, no, I don't. I am usually forced to dance by myself. It is not everyday I am graced with such a talented and willing companion.

[Koh beams back, looking just as excited as the tiefling. This was the probably the most fun she's had dancing since leaving the temple.]

How about you? You seem like you do this kind of thing often.

[Coming from somewhere with no non-humans and where even blonde or red hair are rare and noteworthy traits, Koh decidedly looks weird to Lashan, but she's getting good at not staring. Facial tattoos are familiar anyway, even if the design isn't, something that always sparks a bit of nostalgia in her. And certainly she can understand that discomfort with being on the sea. Lashan, a tall and very confident older woman, calls out from the dock:]

You're almost there. Was it a long trip?

[It felt like forever scooting her way over to the gangway to disembark the ship. Unfortune for her, she had an audience to her embarrassment. By the time the woman addressed her Koh had made it to the docks, relieved to have something more soling beneath her feet.]

Any length of time on the water is too long.

[She groans to herself as she leans on one of the railing posts so she could settle the uneasy feeling swirling in her gut.]

Please tell me I don't have to do that again.

You're not wrong. Unfortunately while this is more stable it's still on the water. There's very little actual land to be found, I'm afraid.

[Lashan's not unsympathetic to this difficulty, having a version of it herself, but she's ill-suited to giving tender kindness to strangers. Commiseration is easier. She shoots a frown at the shining water.]

How people can live like this...

Gods...

[The drow groans again at the thought. This would teach her touching strange objects she finds laying about. After a bit of deep breathing, Koh started to get her usual color back to her face and she turned to level a gaze with the woman.]

If you ever find the answer to that question, please let me know. I have spent a greater portion of my life under its surface.

[whatever that usual color is!]

Under? [Lashan shudders.] Whatever for?

Me, I grew up on grassy plains and moved somewhere with more trees and people later. I think I went to a coast about twice.

What?

[When the woman asked why, Koh's expression shifted to one of confusion. Anyone from just looking at her could tell that she was a drow. A fact that she doesn't try to hide. It was then did the thought dawned on her that it wasn't only people from Faerûn here.]

I take it you're not from where I am if you're asking me that. In my world there is a place called the Underdark where my people live. It's an enormous system of subterranean caves and caverns under my world's surface. Only in recent years have I escaped to live above.

Are you not a native here? You were also taken?

[Lashan raises her heavy eyebrows as she hears about this place.]

Sure aren't. I find it hard to believe I wouldn't know of something like that. There's an elemental plane compared to a cavern complex but it's adjacent to the world, not under it.

Yep. Lots of people here were. There's plenty of locals, too, just as well since we don't tend to stick around all that long.

Where I'm from we also have a place similar to what you described called the Elemental Chaos. It's on a different plane of existence from ours. Of course I've never been, only read about it.

[There was a pause as the drow pushed off the dock post to pull herself up proper. After a moment of standing still, she was finally wasn't feeling like her stomach wasn't going to violently erupt.]

Sorry, where are my manners? Let me properly introduce myself. I'm Kolnatha Shavval, but just Koh is fine.

Do you have just the one plane?

[She grins, showing very white teeth.]

You'd be surprised how often people don't introduce themselves at all. Sister Lashan. Welcome to Elrut, sorry about the ride over. It's a floating island that's also a live reptile, did you see?

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

GHOST PROBLEMS

QUESTS

Kolnatha Shavval ☾ DnD OC ☾ Corsairs ☾ TDM

2-B (!!!! hello!! it's you!!!!)

Oh, hello stranger. Long time no see ^^

I perished for a long while but I got better, good to see you!

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sniff sniff i smell a drow (3-C)

Indeed you do

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