escordvi | « june 2025: sticky situation »

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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 had their invitations approved by the mods can actually reserve on June 24 and apply on July 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 starting from June 14 until the end of the month. Characters will appear at random intervals during this time rather than all at once, so players have some more flexibility on how much more adjusted they are for someone else.

If you have any question about the TDM, comment here. If you have questions about the game in general, please comment to the Game Info.

TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated June 20th)

GETTING STARTED

This section can be timed for any time after June 14 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. As an important note, Elah's situation is unusual in that the leviathan has disappeared, leaving behind a floating island remnant behind. Everything is mostly the same, there just isn't a whale carrying the land. Travel to the island is possible.

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.

ELAH'S ISLAND

It's later in the month that the people on the remnants of Elah's floating island notice that parts of the land have been slowly breaking off. It had started with the outer pieces, which is why it had remained largely unknown, but when some fisherman witnessed part of the land cracking and falling into the ocean, they raised the alarms. Although the progress seems to be slow, tremors could now be more visibly felt and are conclusively linked when pieces fall off. Before panic could completely seize the remaining populace, efforts to keep the land together are mobilized.

Once alerted, the Corsairs will also offer aid. Not wanting to risk damaging the floating island further, several groups will stay on Elah while Nogard will travel separately with the rest of its population to an island half a day's out known for a strong "adhesive" that should help keep Elah's remnant in one (questionable) piece until Elah is found. However, these remedies are all temporary band-aid fixes, and the state of the "island" has acting officials and leaders beginning discussions on what to do next if Elah cannot be found soon…

🫨 Troubling tremors. As the days progress, the frequency of the tremors increase—from once every other day, to two to eventually a handful. In the main city of Baleen, the tremors are slight, with just notable rumblings that feel no different than when Elah gave an occasional grumble. However, some are strong enough to knock a few loose things over and cracks are starting to show on the buildings and streets. Farther out from the main city, where the farms and smaller towns and villages are situated, however, the movement is felt more strongly and the damage more severe. Here is where aid will be needed most, from repairing damages to evacuating and moving people and animals further inland.

🩹 Patch it up. There are various methods being deployed to try and "patch up" and tether the loose pieces. Those who excel in earth magic are quick to try and strengthen the ground while both magitech and mechanical engineers are hard at work to create devices and structures to try and keep the land together.

🪣 Super Snail Glue. Once the slime from the island arrives, it is quickly processed to be poured into the cracks like cement. However, care must be taken because if not careful, one could get caught in it, especially as it is slow to harden. While one won't sink in it, they will be stuck in there for a while. If the glue does happen to harden around the individual, they will need to be broken free similar to being in cement.

🍲 Potluck. As smaller communities and farms are evacuated closer to Baleen, aid is provided to help try and keep everyone calm. One of the main ways is hosting several potlucks throughout the oncoming days. Farmers who brought their crops in so they would not be lost willingly offer the surplus and Corsairs from Nogard will also bring in plenty of ale and supplies. It's also a perfect opportunity for those who have been working hard to take a break and try to keep spirits up.

As time goes on, plans for future evacuations are made to prepare for the worst case scenario. However, the main issue is where people should settle. There are a few populated islands that people may travel to on their own, but acting officials would prefer to try to keep everyone together—especially if they need to resettle somewhere completely. Requests to set sail and scout for suitable islands are sent out for any who are willing to risk the dangers that may come with it. Given the situation, while they have some natural preferences they won't be too particular for now. It just needs to be large enough to house a sizable population and have ample resources that they can live off of.

ADOPORTSAG

Meanwhile, Nogard will settle onto the island of Adoportsag. It is a rich and fertile place, with thick tropical forests filled with luscious fruit trees and waters so clean and clear it's almost hard to believe. It's no wonder the local snailfolk population is very relaxed and chill, who welcome travelers gladly into their homes. They will be friendly, mellow hosts who offer all manner of delicious foods and drinks, from local fruit and root vegetables, cooked meats with fragrant spices, and sweet-scented juice and cocktails. However, everything on the island has a light inebriating quality to them; most foods will make one feel slightly tipsy, while stronger foods can even cause faint hallucinogenic effects. The effects can be slept off, but will probably cause a mild hangover the next morning.

While the snailfolk are fairly large, the giant snails and slugs that also inhabit the island are even larger—large enough to be ridden! If one would want to try to ride one, anyway. They are very peaceful and approachable creatures so there will be no difficulty in gathering the slime from them. However, take care—if they are harmed or feel threatened, they will turn hostile quickly and turn red. Their slime will become toxic and acidic, powerful enough to burn and even melt skin and bone. Some will even use their slime to smother and suffocate attackers. Perhaps that's why there are very few predatory animals and those that do exist stay far away from them…

🌻 Embarrassing flowers. Scattered throughout the island are trees that bear a multi-coloured, sweet-smelling flowers that are said to hold magical properties. According to the locals, whoever picks the fruit that grows from these flowers and shares it with another will undergo a sacred trust-bonding ritual with the one they share it with. However, what the locals fail to mention is that the flowers will begin to shout out the eater’s most embarrassing moment for all nearby to hear. The local snailfolk see this as a chance to laugh at past troubles and grow trust between friends, but others might not appreciate this ‘sacred’ custom.

💦 Stuck together. Creating the glue needed to repair the island of Elah is sticky work, and while the snailfolk do offer warnings it’s very possible that people can get stuck together thanks to all the slime. The snailfolk do have solvents to remove the slime, but it may take them a while to make it. Those who get stuck together will have to get used to each other’s company while they wait.

🧴 Slime products. The slime isn't just a great adhesive—it's actually quite versatile and can be used to make different products. From lotions to lubricants, it can even be used in cooking. Somehow rumor that the slime could be a "cure for wrinkles" and the next big trend for beautification has spread. There are even attempts to create some kind of alcoholic drink from them. The snailfolk aren't as proactive in producing many products, but other merchants and craftsmen are interested. New products are already out for testing for people to try. Just be warned, that there could be side effects, such as making the skin feel extra sensitive…

🐌 Snail feeding. In order to create the glue needed to reconnect the islands, slime needs to be harvested from local snails. Feeding the snails is the best way to get them to produce the slime, so help feed them leafy greens and large fruits to get that slime running!

🌦️ Rainy weather. The weather can be quite fickle on the island. One minute it's sunny and the next rain suddenly pours down. Usually the rain will pass through quickly, leaving behind a cool mist that unfortunately later becomes sticky with humidity. Should anyone get caught in the rain, take shelter under the trees or even under the large leaves that can cover a few adults. Just be careful—sometimes after the rain, the flowers and fruits will emit a stronger scent than usual, making the inebriating effects more potent.

On the southern side of the island is an active volcano, but there are currently no threats of a full eruption, just occasional lava flows that travelers should be careful of. Near the base of the volcano in one of the few safe areas is a grand, magnificent temple made of black obsidian dedicated to the worship of a long-departed entity that can be described as a "goddess" snail. The temple is beautifully decorated with art and effigies, including a very large statue of a very large snail draped in dress-like robes that looks very elegant and…goddess-y by snail standards. All the snailfolk respect and revere the goddess depicted within the temple, though most view the temple itself as more of a cultural landmark these days. However, there is a cult of dedicated snailfolk followers that are desperate to see their goddess again. This is the only time the local snailfolk seem to be wary and warn travelers to be careful as these followers can be…odd.

🌋 Sacrifices. After overhearing an ill-timed joke about "making sacrifices," the cult takes the suggestion seriously. Normal snailfolk will catch wind of this and warn everyone, but members of the cult actually start kidnapping people to drop into the volcano as a sacrificial offering to revive their departed goddess. Fortunately for those wanting to plan rescue efforts or those who find themselves kidnapped, the cultists are very slow and the volcano is very high. It's quite easy to make an escape. Just be careful of the lava flows and pools and steam vents along the volcano's slopes.

🍎 Lava Pomegranates. A special fruit that is grown not by trees, but a product of the volcano and cultivated by the temple followers. Although dangerous and can explode if handled from the lava fields they sprout from, after they cool they make for a spicy, delicious treat. However, there is a side effect where one will go into a daze and easily susceptible to suggestions. They will also start yearning for the volcano and the goddess… Quickly snap out anyone who has fallen under the effects before the affected join in the kidnapping for sacrifices or worse—try to sacrifice themselves!

💎 Hidden treasures. Potential sacrifices notwithstanding, the volcano is a veritable treasure trove of natural resources. Adventurers are encouraged to explore the volcano to see what sorts of items they can find, whether it be to barter with the local snailfolk or to take it for themselves. Take heed when exploring, however; the volcano is home to fire golems and fire sprites, as well as elemental beings born from the lava of the volcano.

👁️ Fire Cyclops Among all the creatures that dwell on the volcano, none are as feared as the fire cyclops, a monstrous elemental being that is said to live in the heart of the volcano. Few have seen the monster in person, and fewer have lived to tell the tale. Anyone brave or foolish enough to challenge this fiery monster will be greatly rewarded by the snailfolk.

INVASION

Later in the month, while treatment for the remaining island of Elah is still in the works, alarms sound when a ship arrives badly damaged and half of its crew dead. They recount being attacked by the shark leviathan Krahs and had lost three other ships to the sharkfolk. Worst of all, it's heading right towards them—as can be seen by the gray clouds rushing in from the distance and the large waves that herald the large leviathan's approach.

Corsairs stationed on the island will send word to Nogard still on Adoportsag, and the leviathan will bring in those who wish to join to rush in to try and intercept the Krahs. However, due to the distance and the suddenness of the attack, they won't arrive until after Krahs's sharkfolk warriors have made landfall. Not only are the sharkfolk warriors vicious and ruthless, the shark ships return with adjustments, their ability to cut through the water both above and under allowing them to destroy ships with their powerful jaws at a speed that can go undetected before it's too late. The invaders seem particularly enthused, as if they are taking advantage of Elah's disappearance to try and take over or even destroy the island.

⚔️ Defend! While Nogard engages with Krahs, waves of sharkfolk marauders have begun to storm the shores of Elah. Help defend the island by fighting off as many as you can and drive those shark invaders back into the sea! The people who had recently been evacuated from the outer areas of the island will be particularly vulnerable and Corsairs will set up barricades and defenses as best they can.

🎣 Live bait. While the sharkfolk are strong and fearsome warriors, Corsair aligned sharkfolk allies will reveal their kind can be easily distracted. One strategy to distract the sharkfolk is to get into special cages to act as live bait to draw the sharkfolk in while being protected from their sharp teeth and crushing jaws. If you’re brave enough, dive into one of these cages and help draw away some of the attackers! Offer support for those who risk their lives by protecting them and attack with the opportunity they provide!

🧜‍♀️ Mermaid dancing. Another method of distraction is less violent, but more unusual; the sharkfolk seem to be attracted to beautiful faces, sultry dances, and suggestive songs. Make use of the merfolk magic to transform into a beautiful merfolk or siren, and use your best talents to distract the sharkfolk away from attacking the island. As the old saying goes, make love not war, right?

🦈 Shark infiltration. Some merfolk that were around Elah have decided to offer their magic and strategies to help those willing to fight the sharkfolk. Their plan involves transforming willing defenders into sharks in order to infiltrate the ranks of the attacking sharkfolk and sabotage things from behind enemy lines. Embrace your inner saboteur and cause some havoc – so long as you don’t mind biting.

🪝Hooked. All the action from Krahs’s attack is causing the island to further fragment into pieces. What’s worse, some sharkfolk are using giant shark-teeth grappling hooks to try and physically drag parts of the island away into smaller pieces. Stop these grapplers before they pull away whole chunks of the island!

Although they will be later to come, eventually whale- and dolphinfolk will arrive as reinforcements. Initially they were traveling just to offer support to the island in general, so they are surprised to find it under attack. Quick to enter the fray, they should be able to help turn the tide, especially as the dolphins and orcas are particularly vicious against the sharks. They do love shark livers, so it will be quite a gruesome sight as the already bloodied waters will turn into more of a bloodbath. The dolphins will allow others to ride them to help fight in the water.

But will they be successful in fending off Krahs's attack? And if they do, how much of the island will be saved? Everyone's participation will help decide the island's fate!

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.

Dead Men Tell No Tales

Elsewhere

A small archipelago of tiny islets has been discovered in a foggy section of ocean, and amidst the rocky islets lies a small ship graveyard. Explore this collection of broken ships and see what can be recovered, but take heed; the area is also known to be populated by dreaded sea serpents looking for their next meal. And maybe they’re the ones who are sinking the ships, too.

Without A Paddle

Eltrut

Some of the locals on Eltrut are a bit bored this month. They’re challenging anyone and everyone to try and race from one of Eltrut’s many sandy beaches to a small island off in the distance. There’s just one catch. Racers have to use two animals and some rope to do it. If that means strapping two turtles together and riding them like a raft or using your own animal companions or the local wild sea life to strap together to drag you over the waves… Who can make the distance?

Another Crab’s Treasure

Atnam

Those travelling to Atnam for work on the Manta Board might find their pockets just a little bit lighter… It seems there’s a thief in the midst. Without realizing it, you might find yourself without your purse or whatever gold coins you had in your pocket. Anything precious and shiny on your person is in danger of being stolen! Find the culprit and get back your precious shiny items. And find out that it might be a tiny, pesky crab with a rusty spoon doing it…

Threaded | Flat

Any questions regarding the TDM specifically go here! Any general questions about the Game go to the Game Info.

[ OOC NOTE: This is

jenetequitteraipas with the real journal this time! She is from Post-Game and from a particular ending. Please don't spoil yourself. I have a Spoiler Opt-Out if you prefer. It's safe to interact with her if you've reached Act 3, for the most part. Lemme know and I'll skirt around ending spoilers. Feel free to PM if you have any questions! ]

Minor Act 3 Spoilers for Prompt ( I )

Un. ( I ) Starter Ship : Arrival

[ Maelle knows what she was told. Something about tattoos for magic or other abilities. But she ignores them. She’s never needed that kind of modification so why would she now? ~She’ll be different~.

Until she stands on the deck of the Stormbringer, attempting to grasp at chroma that isn’t graspable and fails over and over. She can’t summon her rapier, she can’t even shake a few golden petals into the air. Nothing. Slowly, she’s growing frustrated, shaking her hands and arms, convinced she’s doing something wrong instead of actually just being in the same predicament as everyone else. ]

Deux. ( II ) Adoportsag : Stuck Together

[ In her earnest to help she’s found herself on glue duty. She’s not the happiest about it, but someone has to do it.

She’ll pass along the component for the glue, mindful of what these snail creatures have warned them about. And yet this time when she hands it off to you, something goes wrong.

There’s a tug and pull from her side, but for some reason you’re both moving together. ]

Oh… [ No… This is bad.]

Trois. ( III ) Invasion : Live Bait

[ She's not thrilled about this idea, but she's also more than equipped ( in her humble opinion ) to take care of herself if this idea fails.

It doesn't take long before a shark eagerly takes the distraction and even less time for it to be against the cage, attempting to bite and tear at it with its jaws. From the force of the initial blow, she backs to the opposite side of the cage, it's bigger than she thought it would be. But as the shark tears at the cage, she sees an opportunity, her confidence resurfacing. With her rapier in hand she lunges for its eye between the cage's bars.

... Unfortunately, it only seems to have enraged the beast more. She might need some help here. ]

Quatre. ( IV ) Wildcard : New Adventure

[ Feel free to PM or contact me on Discord @ alexceptionally if you'd like to do a quest or something different together c: Thanks! ]

A. Royal Misfortune

[ It happens so fast he doesn't even have time to hold his breath before Sylvain is plummeting through the air with a startled yelp and then crashing like a cannonball into the sea. The cold shock of the water is certainly a jolt to the senses and for a moment, he doesn't know which way is up. But a few powerful kicks end up bringing him to the surface and he gasps for air as he desperately swipes water out of his eyes. Only to get hit in the face with another wave, taking him under again.

But his vision had been clear for long enough to make out the looming shape of a nearby ship. One he waves his arms at and yells for when he next surfaces, seeing sailors on board scramble in reaction when they spot him. He's a decent swimmer, but unused to dealing with waves like this - it's a far cry from the mountain lakes he's far more accustomed to. But the expression on his face when a rescuer reaches out to him is one of utter relief. ]

Shit

[ ...he doesn't look as shocked by his sudden arrival as some do, however, which might stand out to those who've been here a while. Oh, he's surprised, for sure - an unannounced dunking in an ocean he's never heard of before would be surprising to anyone. But his arrival here? No, Sylvain seems to be taking that pretty well, all things considered.

Once on board, he can be found on deck, wrapped in a thick blanket despite the fact that he's still soaking wet - and wearing an ill-fitting uniform that is definitely not big enough to cover his broad torso. His hair curls wetly around his face, falling long to just past his shoulders, the top part of it twisted back into a now-bedraggled sort of bun. He's watching everything unfold around him with sharp-eyed interest, especially if there are other new arrivals, or those who look as lost as he feels right now. Or you might catch him gazing out to sea, watching for this supposed land on the horizon. Although if anyone approaches him, his serious demeanor is quick to melt away into a bright, easy smile, as if he doesn't have a care in the world. ]

B. Elah's Island

[ Not content to stay on the giant turtle - as cool as that had been for a variety of reasons - Sylvain jumps at the chance to lend a hand and help people in a crisis. And since he gets to see more of this world in the process, even better. A ship to the remnant's of Elah's island isn't hard to arrange, but once there, he's actually a little at a loss as to how to help these people. His new magic from the tattoo he'd received is still an unknown, since he's had little time to practice it yet. Especially when he doesn't fully understand what's gone wrong here on this island in the first place.

The tremors are certainly worrying, but he helps out wherever he sees a need, helping with evacuations and rescues, or offering an extra hand or a little extra muscle when and where it's needed. But when hears of some of the smaller communities and farms hosting potlucks, he's quick to volunteer to help them. he might not be the best cook, but this, at least, is something familiar and a routine he can lose himself in for a while and still feel the satisfaction of helping. And if he spots any of the other helpers looking especially worn down or run ragged, he'll be quick to step in so they take a break. ]

C. Shark Attack

[ If you'd told him a week ago he'd be fighting off invading shark warriors... well, actually, at this point, he's about willing to believe anything. At least they don't have tentacles?

This, at least, falls far more into his skillset than the rescue work he's been dedicated too since arriving here on the island. Snagging a fishing trident, he rushes with the other defenders to the beach. While it's not his customary spear, he can wield it in a similar fashion and takes up a stance intent on keeping the invaders from getting further than this. Sometimes that ends up with him falling in to defend one of the bait traps or taking out the grapplers before they can cause further damage to the island. It's clear he's in his element here, and despite being a newcomer to this world, it's easy to fall back into the role of leadership when it's needed and there's no other voices around him doing the same. Having led his own battalions into battle for years, he knows how effective a coordinated effort can be in situations like this. ]

D. Another Crab's Treasure

[ Accidentally foiling a pickpocketing attempt by getting jabbed in the ass by a claw is not the best strategy, as it turns out. Even if it did foil said attempt.

Sylvain just stares at the tiny creature who dances sideways, back and forth, wielding a rusty spoon menacingly in his direction like the deadliest weapon. And tries really hard not to laugh. ]

E. Wildcard

{ Hit me up with any of the prompts if these don't work, Sylvain is a bit of a social butterfly so he's likely to get around anywhere and everywhere. He'll likely be coming in as a CRAU (this is still tbd, so I tried to leave it vague-ish). Feel free to DM me or hit me up at

chaneystarr with questions or ideas! }

A. Stormbringer

[ A lot of strange shit has happened to Varric over the years, but this one? This one definitely wins the golden nug. One moment, he's lurking in a shady back alley in Minrathous; the next, a bottle comes rolling out of nowhere, taps against his foot and...

...And he finds himself in the crows nest of an unknown ship, out at sea, Bianca gone from his grip and no land in sight. Wait, scratch that, there might be land in sight or that might be a giant sea monster out there, what does he know? This is Isabela's territory, not his.

Especially when he gives a queasy sort of groan when the ship rocks with the waves and he leans over the edge of the crow's nest to peer down the very long distance between here and the deck. Gripping the railing with a white-knuckled grip as the ship rocks back the other way. ]

really

B. Eltrut

[ The first place Varric heads, once he's got his bearings on land and retrieved the supplies the pirate crew told him he'd need, is the nearest tavern. Everything you could ever want to know - and quite a few things you didn't - could always be found there. And when everything in this place is so strange, this is the closest thing to familiar he figures he's going to get.

Which is how he ends up at The Minstrel and Cask, parked at the bar with a large mug of ale in one hand as he takes in the other patrons. Or perhaps you happen to be next to him when he settles in, on the receiving end of a sly, crooked grin and a polite dip of his head. ]

[ Which means you've definitely got him beat. ]

aren't

C. Adoportsag

[ This world... has snail people. Varric is just shaking his head in bemused disbelief as he disembarks the ship, taking in their surroundings with a keen eye. He can be pretty adaptable, or so he's always thought, but this world keeps being one surprise after another. But learning about how much of this slime is needed and why, he's more than willing to pitch in help gather it. Whether that be feeding the creatures and trying to keep them calm and not pissed off enough to murder them or gathering the slime once it's ready to be harvested. He's gotta admit, he's pretty fascinated by the stuff, even if he's very careful in handling it - getting stuck to a stranger does not actually sound like a fun way to spend the day.

More than once, the work gets interrupted by an unexpected downpour and he's quick to take shelter under the trees until it passes. You might catch him sipping from a flask with a local delicacy in it - one he'd pass over with a grin if he catches you watching. ]

[ It's just juice, after all. What could go wrong? ]

D. Dead Men Tell SOME Tales

[ Getting reestablished in a new world with no funds and lacking his wide network of contacts was going to be... challenging, to say the least. It's been a long time since he's been in a situation like this, and he's not exactly thrilled to be facing it again, if he's honest. Still, the quests offered seem to be interesting enough, even though poking around a ship graveyard doesn't sound exactly safe. He's been in worse places, though, he's sure, and you never know what interesting things you'll find in a place like that.

The place looks as grim and foreboding as one would expect, as the ship he's on approaches cautiously. He's eyeing the looming shapes of demolished ships with an uneasy eye, gloved fingertips rapping softly on the wood of the deck railing as he gives a tuneless hum in thought. ]

E. Wildcard

{ Hit me up with any of the prompts if these don't work, Varric's a friendly sort. He'll be coming in from the very beginning of Veilguard, before everything goes to shit. Also someone PLEASE tell him about DRAGON HEAT he's gonna get such a kick out of their steamy romance novels here. Feel free to DM me or hit me up at

chaneystarr with questions or ideas! }

A. Patching It Up

[While this place was certainly low tech, it wasn't entirely without. And the ... magical abilities, as they called them here, were certainly interesting enough in their ability to augment what available resources were otherwise lacking.

This is how Tali found herself with the patch-up crew, both eager to apply her mechanical engineering skills to rigging devices designed to capture the floating masses before they have a chance to escape and carefully observing those applying their biotic-like skills to strengthening what remained.]

Ah. How did you ... do that?

B. Defend

[Tali hadn't been here long, but she knew an invading force when she saw one. While this "magic" and the way these cultures interacted were alien to her, the panic in the eyes of those around her wasn't. She'd been on the losing side of those looks before.

Instinct took over. Glancing around for anything that might work as a projectile weapon, she settled on what looked like an old harpoon gun as she hurried to the front line. Using the point, she cut her way through the belly of one of these shark people, making a face behind her mask.]

Keelah.

[She turns to a nearby not-shark person, tone flat as she glances around for her next target.]

Do you ever wish you just had a shotgun?

C. Wildcard

[Invent shenanigans with Tali! She will be very interested in learning more about how everything works here on a technical level, as well as learning what these invasions and crews are about.

You're also welcome to hit me up on Plurk @ Zully or just hit me up with any random thing you like! Surprise me!]

I.) [Adoportsag - Catch all]

[Why. Why is he here? He's with a group of heroes. Axel gets that. Elah continues to be talk of the town and it's not that he is entirely without what little sympathy he is capable of for the island's plight. It's just that there isn't anything HE in particular is useful for, here!

The Nobody knows he is lacking emotional insight on most things, but even without a heart to have much opinion with, slime.. gathering duty does not sound appealing in any manner.]

"I'm good."

[Axel huffs, waving an offered drink away. Not to mention everyone here is just a little too chill. It's kind of weirding him out. The last time locals paid him this much attention, The Corsair wound up ostracized for his armada affiliation.]

"PASS, thanks." [Axel insists, a little louder, since they don't seem to have heard the first SEVERAL times. The assassin learned his lesson with cactus juice. No unlabeled drinks! After yet another attempt, he slinks outside. Right as a peel of thunder erupts overhead.]

"..And now it's raining. Great."

[Adoportsag. Worst Port yet.]

II.) [Down time]

[It didn't matter how he tried to avoid it. Axel is drunk. Or drugged on something in some capacity. He needs some air, or to get moving. Anything to break himself out of this weird trance his body is insisting upon.

The redhead stumbles blindly down the temple hall to the plaza outside, expecting his balance to be far more cooperative than it is. When his body roughly bumps into another person, he blearily reaches out to steady himself, assuming it to be another temple acolyte running the place.]

"Yeah, yeah, hail her snaljesty or something."

III.) [At a Snail's Pace]

[Axel crosses his arms as he surveys the 'attempted crime' before him. The snail people really are abducting people to drag up to the volcano. Huh.
There had been some initial concern after the assassin realized it and he hightailed up the mountain after them as quick as his legs could carry him. Now though...
He can see that they haven't even made it a quarter of the way and won't anytime soon at the pace they're continuing to drag at. Which, in layman's terms might be defined as. Very. Very. Slowly.

Hood up and not even bothering to leave the wall he's leaning on, Axel deadpans at the captive beginning to stir.]

"Honestly tempted to just leave you like this."

[Really this is just... sad.]

VI.) [Lava Pomegranate]

[He is one with fire. Fire is his element. So why shouldn't the Flurry of Dancing Flames be drawn to the volcano? Axel stares ahead with a glazed look in his eye. For all that he has tried to avoid getting drunk at this place, this fruit he has come across seems to be the worst offender by far. The lava pomegranate had seemed fairly innocuous at the time. Pleasantly spicy even. Hours later though, there's an itch somewhere in the back of his mind urging him to keep that looming Volcano in view and it isn't long before his legs decide he should see it too.

Single-mindedly Axel begins the long traipse up the long mountain pass. Heedless of the monstrous roars in the distance.

When a Nobody has a goal, they are able to act on it without any hesitation. So what if that current goal involved throwing himself into the volcano?
It'll be fine. Probably.]

V.) [Holding up the Fort] (NPC at will!)

"Here they come~."

[Perhaps after all the disinterest and callous apathy the Nobody has shown over Elah's plight, it might be a bit of a surprise to see Axel ready to defend the place. Plus Ultra has given him a bit of a taste for teamwork and whether it be aboard a ship or on top of one of the barracks, the assassin takes the liberty of placing himself along the top of the erected structure waiting for the next wave of the siege.]

"Think we still oughta be punching them in the nose?"

[He smirks.
When the sharkfolk use their hooks to begin to try and make their way over, Axel lets his chakrum fly, cutting and burning their ropes before they are able.
It's a sound strategy but one that won't work forever. Not with the sheer numbers or multiple ways the marauders might storm the battlements. Get ready!]

VI.) [WILD] [Throw a manta quest at me or run into Axel anywhere! I already have an open log for Heart Break Hotel Quest too!]

Edited 2025-06-15 00:27 (UTC)

A. Getting Started - Random Room

[ The Stormbringer couldn't afford her a life any more different than what she's used to. The bright blue open skies contrast with muted haze of a burning sun filtered through desert sands. The wind gusts briny and full of life as they sail closed-hauled into it's path. But it's the rolling of the seas, the pitch and yaw tossing the deck around beneath her feet that really does her in.

It would be just her luck if the bed where she's fallen to ride out this wave of seasickness happened to be occupied already. At least she's kept the worst of it down -- for now ]

Ugh... how long until we reach land again?

B. Elah's Island - Potluck

[ Finally with her feet on solid ground, Riju recovers quickly enough and looks to make the most of the situation. She learns of the potluck not long after she acquires her tattoo, the slight sting of it still fresh. It sounds like as good an opportunity as any to mingle with the locals and get the lay of the land.

While she can't boast any particularly skills in the kitchen, she volunteers to staff one of the many bustling tables, each empty dish whisked away as quickly as the next arrives freshly steaming. ]

If you can't decide, try one of each. There's plenty to go around.

[ Apron-clad and serving spoon in hand, she gestures to a few of the options between them, like a roast surrounded by caramelized fruits and vegetables, the potato casserole loaded with every savory ingredient imaginable, or the tropical fruit salad covered in a sweet, tangy sauce. ]

C. Adoportsag - Who knocked over my onions

Patricia what have you done?

[ The cry of frustration cuts over the din of the meal one particularly balmy evening. Following it to the source, one will find an increasing clutter of detritus in the form of spilled drinks, toppled platters and a constellation of half eaten fruits scattered all over the floor.

And at the source of it all, what looks like a small rotund walrus lazing languidly on it's side. The creature -- a sand seal -- gives a nonchalant flap of it's flipper and emits a sound that can best be described as something between a bark and a coo. The sounds mingle with Riju's despair as the young woman stands over her pet, calculating exactly how she is supposed to maneuver a drunk sand seal away from further trouble and simultaneous take responsibility for the mess. ]

D.Adoportsag - Sacrifices

Part I
[ Riju is out with the expedition to collect slime when she first notices something odd; other members of their party suddenly disappearing without warning. When it starts with the snailfolk she brushes it off to them falling behind. But over time the human numbers also start to drop and that's when she turns to someone beside her no longer comfortable with keeping silent. ]

Tell me you're seeing this too. I know we came out here with more than 5 people.

[ A cursory glance around and it seems as thought their numbers of dwindled to nearly half. ]

Part II
[ Following the clues and some stories from the locals eventually lead her to the volcano where, sure enough, a trail of the cultists are making their way up the gentle slows toward the caldera. She spots the missing expeditioners easily and then it's just a matter of waiting for the opportune moment to strike.

She's spend enough time dealing with the Yiga that her stealth skills serve her well now. ]

I'm here to rescue you.

[ Voice low but urgent, she tries not to startle the other party into giving away their escape to the snail that has wandered ahead to clear a pathway up the volcano. The first order of business is dealing with the crude restraints. If she were any other gerudo she could just pick the captive up and drag them away but her uncommonly small stature betrays her -- again. ]

Part III
[ While Riju does her part to free any of those kidnapped that she spots, the tides soon shift against her. As she helped another to safety, her guard momentarily lowered, the cultist made their move. A whole escargatoire.

As she struggles against the cement like slime that's been used to bind her, she hurls one insult after another at her captors, undeterred in their slow ascent. ]

Is this kidnapping or a guided tour!?

[ Her goal isn't really to hurt their feelings, so much as create a racket that will get her noticed in time. Between that and the lightning strikes she keeps bringing down around them, she hasn't lost faith in her odds just yet. ]

E. Wildcard
Hit me up with anything else you can think of. DM this journal or sovereignty@plurk works best for plotting.

Edited 2025-06-14 23:24 (UTC)

[MANTA Quest: Tara-Tam Deepcroft]

[If he's being honest, Roxas isn't sure if the fact that the monastery has been cleaned up is better or not. While he's glad that the skeletons aren't wandering around anymore, there is something creepier about the emptiness of the place. Especially with the crying. The echoes are very distracting as he's trying to find the notes.]

How would you even tell which bones were which?

[He sighs, staring at the papers in his hands.]

I feel like I'm missing something.

[Sticky Situation]

[Well. This is a problem.

He'd been doing so well to.

But, sometimes you don't look at where you're placing your hand or you reach back for something and the next thing you know, you're stuck. Adhered the roof of the house you were trying to fix.

It's not great.

Roxas is trying his best not to draw attention to himself as he tries to pull his hand away from the roof of the building, but if you catch him at the right moment, it might look like he's struggling. Just a bit.

But maybe he can get this tile loose.]

[Rainy Day]

[There's something really nice about this.

Just sitting under a leaf and watching the rain. It's warm, he doesn't have to be anywhere, he can just enjoy it. It's nice to have a nice memory in the rain.

He tries not to think of the last one (the dark cold streets of the World that Never Was, the clashing of keyblades, Darkness, always Darkness). Instead, he lies back, dry under the leaf he's found and smiles, listening to the pattering of the rain.]

This place is actually really nice.

[Even if the slugs are gross]

[Hooked]

[Roxas stands on the edge of a small cliff, his keyblades out. It's not much in the way of defence when it's just him, but it's something. A bit of a stalemate in a lot of ways. The Krahs fire their grappling hooks and Roxas knocks them out of the air. One manages to get hooked, and Roxas is there to cut it away.

It's been going on for a while now, and one side has got to get tired.]

[Wildcard]

[Open to shenanigans and plotting at

urbaninja]

Edited 2025-06-15 01:00 (UTC)

Patch it up:

[After waking up from a sudden sleep (honestly, he had no idea how that happened), Ventus has decided to keep himself busy by helping the people. It's how he can be found helping people, convincing them to move further inland when--

Woah, that was a strong tremor!

Ventus staggers a bit, but quickly catches himself. He places his hand against the wall of a building before he feels another one. Stronger, this time. It has his head snapping up, feet moving on instinct as he runs to where he sees a building about to collapse.]

Watch out!

Stuck Together:

Um...

[Ventus just. Wanted to help. Somehow, it got him stuck to another poor unfortunate soul. The snailfolk weren't kidding about how strong their slime is.]

Are you okay?

[Time to check on his (sticky) partner first.]

Wildcard:

[Feel free to make up your own starter if none of these interest you, or poke me at

seabutterfly]

i—arrival

[Link is no stranger to the fall. It's become a familiar feeling, almost welcome in the way his stomach pitches, the lurch of excitement—

However, most of the time, when he reaches for his paraglider, he actually finds it on his person.

This time being an outlier, Link is hurtling toward the deck of a ship at a truly alarming pace. He's almost relieved when his vision seems to shift, putting the clear water in his range of view instead of an unfortunate collision with solid materials. But that doesn't stop a somewhat alarmed hyaaa— to be cut off unexpectedly as he collides with the water like a little cannonball. Oof.

He may need some help being fished out of the water—before his stamina runs out.

Most of the rags he was clad in disintegrate in the water, leaving him in mostly underpants. Weirdly, as he explores the ship, he doesn't seem to mind this at all. He'll make unabashed eye contact with anyone he encounters at the time, an eyebrow raised very faintly if anyone makes a fuss. Look. It's just underwear.]

ii—elah [potluck]

[If Link had a red rupee for every time he ended up volun-told into helping with a potluck in a strange world…he'd have more than two red rupees, actually. Two times is weird. More than two is predictable.

Anyway, he's here, and he's got a nice little fire going with a cookpot. He seems well within his element; even seems like he's enjoying himself. His expression doesn't change, of course, but occasionally you'll catch him humming a short little tune, and there's a lightness to the way he holds himself that speaks to how comfortable he is in this capacity. For those looking for food, he's got a ladle and a meal ready, but with supplies being what they are:] Got a plate?

[For those bringing raw ingredients, he'll look them over curiously for a moment before offering an assuring nod.] I can make something with that.

[Those who seem curious about the process might be dragged into chopping, if they seem so inclined. Otherwise, he's content to cook alone.]

iii—adoportsag

[So. Snail people. Giant snails. That's interesting. As is the case in many of these prompts, Link is unbothered. And speaking of unbothered…

Well, here's the thing. Link isn't necessarily trying to bond with anyone over these fruits, but he is a menace who will eat just about anything if given the chance. So tell him there's a cool fruit and he's already taking a bite out of it. The result: Link is now exploring the area with a half-eaten fruit in hand, while the flowers chanting at him.

"Oh! It's you! The master of underpants excellence. The one who showed us all how to achieve more, wearing less."

Yeah. This game really is like that. Link is still unbothered, though; as they ("they") say, I am he.

Later, Link proves to be less unbothered when he begins to get stuck to people who are also working with the slimy substances they need. He'll face his partner-in-misfortune with an apologetic look.]

Sorry.

iv—invasion [live bait]

[Link has seen enough of this strange place to acknowledge that they do not lack for fighters. What they do seem to require is people who will willingly look death in the face and say "I fucking dare you."

He won't actually say that. But he will climb right into one of those cages.

It'll take quite a beating, but in the end, if the cage fails, Link will raise his weird arm and pass right through the top of the cage, safely out of danger. If questioned, he'll lift his eyebrows slightly, as if you're the weird one for suggesting this isn't normal. What, your arm doesn't do that??]

wildcard
[i'm open to basically every prompt, so throw something at me if none of these suit you!]

Edited 2025-06-15 01:52 (UTC)

1. Arrival

[ One moment Naminé's on a beach and the next she's...falling from the sky into the ocean. Really, it makes some degree of sense for her to be a tiny bit lucky. Or maybe it just makes a bit of sense for her to make a splash anywhere she ends up. Either way, she somehow manages to not outright panic, though that doesn't mean she doesn't let out a shockingly quiet scream as she plops down.

Once she's on the ship proper soaked the bones and looking smaller than ever she grabs the opportunity to thank everyone who came to her rescue. ]

Thank you. I'm really sorry for any problems I may have caused. I'm not entirely sure what's going on here.

[ Maybe she should ask some questions, or something, but she goes with apologies first, questions after. ]

2. Adoportsag: Flowers

[ For the most part Naminé's just trying to go with the flow. This means she's just...going with where it seems people are meant to be going. Trying to help out where she can while also stumbling about with a bit more uncertainty than she's used to. On the bright side, at least she's the one choosing where she's going for the most part. While she might be doing a bit of following here and there, it's still her choice.

Something about that emboldens her a tiny bit more to try to take in as much as she can. First that's by listening to the local's stories about the flowers, then it's by going to find the flowers for herself. It's not hard to find a lovely patch of them and she takes them all in with a bright smile on her face.

Until they start shouting. Loudly the flowers chant:

witch! it's you! a memory witch that had to replace memories to make someone care about her!

Her pale cheeks flush at the words and she quickly looks around to see if anyone else has heard the flowers chanting. One would think the locals would have mentioned this part... ]

I-I...it's more complicated than that. [ Ah, well, clearly the only option here is to just try to flee away from the flowers and whomever may have heard them. ]

3. Adoportsag: Rainy Weather

[ After spending in inordinate amount of time feeding snails Naminé's come to the realization that she needs more fruit for them. So, with her basket in hand, she starts out to get to picking. Nothing about the skies made her concerned that she might get caught up in a sudden storm, but that's exactly what happens. She makes a vague attempt to cover her head with the basket (which goes about as well as one would expect using a basket as an umbrella to go) before she tries to find shelter instead.

As she stumbles through the muck towards a large tree that promise cover she lets out a tiny laugh. Once she's good and under, secure in the idea that she can wait things out here, she starts to wring her hair out. ]

You know, it's really not that bad. Surprise showers I mean. It's kind of exciting.

4. Adoportsag: Sacrifices

[ She's always been good at picking up whispers around her. It feels almost natural for her to start to hear certain things that hint at a darker edge to this place than one might initially think. The rumors of a cult making sacrifices startles her more than she would like to admit. It's depressingly easy to imagine people snatching others up to use their lives as nothing more than a pawn piece to move into a volcano. Very specific feelings and memories stir within her as she pokes around more and more into this cult trying to revive their lost goddess.

Eventually, she pokes her way too far into their business and finds herself once again being snatched off. On the bright side, at least she's gotten better at escaping from kidnapping! Even if she does kind of feel this is both her own fault for poking around too much and just...

inevitable. Maybe she's just a magnet for capture. Or something.

Still, she does get away, only to find herself lost on a volcano. ]

This is... well, it'll be fine. I can manage this. [ And once she figures out how to get back she can maybe give people some information on the kidnappings! Maybe she'll even be able to get people to go back with her to help others that hadn't gotten away! ]

[Network]

[The feed opens on a man in his mid-to-late twenties. He has dark hair, worn a little long and is probably in need of a haircut, and blue eyes. His expression is one of nervousness but also exasperation. Like he didn't really plan for being on a boat today, and finding himself on a boat is clearly a bit of a problem.]

Okay. So, this is going to be a really weird question, but I've never been here before, right?

No one has seen me walking around or like, on an island or something?

I'm new.

[He sighs, frowning as he looks at his watch and runs his hand through his hair.]

Lucy's going to kill me.

[Sacrifices]

[So, this is how this day is going.

You wake up, go to work, chat merrily with your girlfriend about your date tonight, and then end up in on a boat in another world and then somehow get kidnapped by Snail People to be sacrificed and tossed into a Volcano.

Yeah, that's a new one even by Tom's standards. He really should have stayed in bed this morning. Also, he could absolutely set this whole sacrificing deal up so much better. Seriously, what are these priests even thinking?

He'd stick around to help but he's really not built for volcanoes anymore than he's built for boats, and whoever tied him up did a really poor job. It doesn't take long for him to wriggle out of the bonds and step away from the cult to start making his way down the mountain.

Although he seems to be stuck on a outcropping, trying to find his way down.]

Honestly, who thought any of this was a good idea?

[Well, he's got to make a decision, because the cult is after him. He thinks. Maybe?]

[Snail Feeding]

Here, eat it.

[Tom says, tossing what he assumes are bok choy into the pen with the snails. He's singed, tired and more than a little done with today so feeding snails is about where he's at. It is a little mesmerizing, if he's being honest. Tom has been a lot of things and a lot of places, but somehow he missed giant snails.

Maybe he should be glad he's never had to deal with giant snails in all his lives.

So it's a good way as any to unwind as he considers the predicament he has found himself in.

Or maybe he could just become a snail farmer.]

[Wildcard]

[OOC: Open to shenanigans and plotting at

urbanina. Tom is semi-immortal/caught in a constant cycle of reincarnation. He's been many things, most of them villains until he decided to stop with that and try to actually live a normal life. Which seemed to be going okay until now. Otherwise he's just a normal guy]

I. Getting Started

A. Starter Ships (Corsair)
[The creaking of the boat. The damp must that fills his senses. It has him sitting up where he finds himself asleep in a corner behind some boxes. Somehow the moment feels a little nostalgic to his time in Meropide as an inmate, but that's not important right now. The place is unfamiliar. The smell, the sights, and even the feeling feels different to anywhere he has ever been.

And the rocking.

Wriothesley carefully climbs over the boxes and makes his way through the ship. It's then that he's found and brought to the room with a strange typewriter.

Eventually, the man will be found on the deck, looking out at the ocean and the sky with something akin to wonder. He'll glance over when he feels someone's gaze on him though.] Been awhile since I've been on a boat ride, you know. [He chuckles.]

Though the fashion here is rather atrocious. [There's an amused smile on his lips. He's already considering what his friends might do if they saw his sorry state. Perhaps scandalized. Maybe one of them will faint even.]
B. On Eltrut
[Leaning against the wall of the MANTA office, Wriothesley was carefully looking over the shellphone with mild interest. He was no engineer, but his little tinkerer heart is quite taken with the device.]

This isn't quite as romantic as a written letter. [He wonders if he'd get in trouble if he tried to dismantle it.

Nevermind, maybe when he isn't literally a guy with just the rags on his back.] I'm envious, really. The idea of instant correspondence is a dream in my eyes.

II. Adoportsag

A. Snails
[Perhaps you saw him earlier helping with getting more slime with the efforts to help the island of Elah.

He's taking a break from that (or perhaps heading back to help get more), but right now he's walking leisurely about. Wriothesley does stop to look at some of the strange products that are being made with the slime.

Some, he is more skeptical about.] Hmm, are you sure this is safe for skin contact? [He's seen people get stuck together so he's definitely a mix between curious and doubtful.]
B. Volcanos
Hey, lend me a hand would you? [Wriothesley had been keeping an eye on the area around the volcano. The snailfolk's warnings and the way that the cult followers moved suspiciously had him wary. For good reason too.

Sweat dripped form his temples, the heat and humidity somewhat overbearing. Clinging to his back was a child, looking terribly scared and quite clingy to the cryo user and another one in his arms.] Mind taking one of them?

[At the very least, the danger isn't really from the cultists, given how slow they move, but the actual environment.]

III. Invasion

A. Defend!
[Of course one could find Wriothesley out in the frontlines, fists raised and ready. He didn't have his proper gauntlets, but that didn't mean he didn't make sure he was prepared for a fight. The gauntlets on his hands, if you could even call them that, were built from scraps of metal and welded together roughly. They were certainly usable, but only in the sense that they were certainly...weapons.

A grin is bright on the warden's face as he slams his fists into the faces of some or the abdomens of others. Incapacitating as many of the marauders trying to invade and thin out their attackers meant less of them breaching passed the frontlines and farther in.]

Come on! Show me what you got. [Wriothesley might not be one for the limelight, but he knew the more he incited his opponents, the more they would be distracted from others. He was a close combat kind of guy, so it meant those with farther range can sneak up while he had their attention.]
B. Mermaid Dancing
Turn me back. [The man was practically sulking like a child, tail slapping against the ground with irritation.

Batting some eyelashes and maybe blowing a kiss? Fine, he can do that. Sexy dancing and singing his heart out? No. Absolutely not. This was not briefed to him until they were adorning him in some extra jewelry to add to it all.

Wriothesley has a good face and a good body and perhaps the scars would merely be a charm factor. After all, the sharkfolk would find a sturdy merman to be quite the catch, right?] I'm telling you I'll be more of use on the frontlines.

IV. Wildcard

[Feel free to wildcard me a starter if none of these work! You can also DM me if you want something specific and I'll write a starter for you!]

1: royal fortune - arrival

[It is not normal for Saix to wake up in a kitchen. It's not normal for him to be in a kitchen, for a variety of reasons - but here he is. His normally stoic demeanor has been shaken, not so much because of waking up in another world (not such an unimaginable thing for him, even if he usually knows where he is and why), but because the kitchen is quite busy and he has no idea how to navigate that.

Someone rushes past with a pot of boiling water. Someone else is chopping vegetables wildly. A third person seems to be grappling a live octopus - or maybe that's not food, but a friend? It's impossible for Saix to tell. He needs to get out of here. Time for decisive action.

Two decisive steps towards the door, and he bumps the elbow of someone carrying a stack of dirty plates. It all comes crashing down. Suddenly, there is silence.]

I will... clean that up.

[Not a great start.]

2: elah - helping

[Though not an especially heroic sort, Saix can make himself useful - and what he's especially good at is telling people what to do. Oh, he's no charismatic leader, but seeing what needs to be done and delegating people to handle it? That middle manager skillset is where he excels.

So Saix can be found helping the farmers and villagers move inland as the tremors become more obvious. He does help himself - if things need to be lifted or carried, he doesn't hesitate to lend a hand. But mostly, he organizes people. Tells them where to go, what to do. What needs to be focused on first, and what can be left for later. His manner is brusque and businesslike, as if he's used to being listened to.]

You there, help with that wagon. Get the crates tied down as quickly as possible, we need to move.

3: sharkfight - defend

[Saix is too cautious to fully let loose. Why would he allow strangers to know everything he's capable of? The tattoo that restored his powers is a useful little thing, but he doesn't intend to show off until it's absolutely necessary. He knows better than that.

But even without going all in, Saix is a capable fighter. Wielding a claymore almost as tall as he is, he beats back sharkfolk marauders with brutal efficiency. Though he prefers to fight alone - for all sorts of reasons - in a situation like this one, one must set preferences aside. With barely a glance at whoever is fighting near him, he barks out a basic strategy.]

Take the left side. They're nearly through the barricade there. I'll keep them from coming up behind you.

4: wildcard

[Happy to do anything else! PM me or I'm on discord @ manda]

a. arrival -- in the water... again.

[somethings simply never change. they are as constant as the sun rising in the east and setting in the west. eizen's horrendously terrible luck falls under that category.

his mood had already been soured by everything going on in his own world. hell, he soured his own damn mood and was full well aware of that fact. then, while too far lost in his own thoughts after the day's events, something caught his eye: a ship in a bottle. it felt oddly familiar. the way he ended up whisked away also held that same familiar feeling to it.

and, with that same familiarly, he ends up unceremoniously dumped into the ocean. again.

with all the grace of a boulder attempting to float, eizen flails about before finally managing to surface.]

Bleh-- [right as he starts coughing out water, a wave smashes into his face and makes that coughing start all over again. after another round of coughing, he finally manages to call out for some help.] Man overboard!

[anyone who pays attention will notice something odd. the waves seem relatively calm everywhere EXCEPT in the area around eizen. they keep rolling over him to submerge him and crash into his face each time he surfaces. unlucky, huh?]

b. eltrut -- shellphone.

[ok yeah, this little gadget --the shellphone-- he remembers it and, more importantly, remembers how to use it. soon as eizen gets a moment, he posts a text post to the network.]

Hey. The name may not mean much to anyone anymore, but this is Eizen. I was here what seems to be awhile ago now and just got thrown back into the fray.

If anyone can give me a quick rundown of what is apparently the last nine months or point me in the direction of the current best tavern in Eltrut, I'd appreciate it.

c. patch it up.

[patching up the very ground itself, you say? how fortunate for the island that an earth malak corsair returned right in time for that sort of a task. it's not even a big ask of eizen. creating and shaping the earth is like breathing to him. put a piece together here, stretch out some earth there, and presto! walkable ground once more.

or, rather, it should be walkable. eizen frowns at his own handiwork. the sound of approaching footsteps cause his gaze to tear away from the ground in question and toward whoever's coming by.]

Careful. I got the ground set here but that doesn't make it stable.

[a quick patch-job can't make up for ground that simply lacks good sturdiness to it.]

d. invasion -- defend

[ah, things going to hell not too long after coming back to this place: as expected. the reaper's curse never sleeps no matter the world.

well, at the very least, one thing he's good for is defenses and fortifying them. some of the shark people manage to break through part of the barricade set up by the other corsairs. before they can make any move forward, a giant wall made of pure earth grows out in front of them to block their way past.

unfortunately, a crack starts forming in the wall soon enough. eizen frowns at that. these shark-bastards are breaking through faster than expected.]

I can hold them back for a while this way, but not forever. [he turns toward whoever's nearby.] Give me a hand with fixing up the barricade they broke through.

e. manta board -- dead men tell no tales.

[what's the best thing to get one's mind off of things like the death of someone close to you? that maybe was closer to you than most everyone except one person? whom you yourself dealt the killing blow to? why, treasure hunting, of course! treasure makes everything better, right? right.

any and all thoughts pertaining to non-shipyard related things get pushed to the back of eizen's mind as he climbs up the side of one of the more intact boats here. the only way to get in ended by being via the most rickety stepladder ladder in existence. once up on the deck, he looks down at the boards before tapping it light with his foot and then adding a bit of weight to that tap. a load, heavy creak follows.

eizen glances over at whoever came with him on this little treasure hunt.]

Be careful. The deck's completely rotted over. One wrong step and it'll all go crashing down.

wildcard.

(if you wanna do anything else, let me know here or on plurk at

Shaorune!)

I. Survival Mode (Arrival)

[ Being Fontainian, Lynette is no stranger to water and is quite the strong swimmer. That fact, unfortunately, does little to prepare her for the sudden plunge into the ocean water. While she manages to keep her wits about her well enough to get her head back above water, she ultimately requires rescue from a passing ship. Embarrassing.

Once Lynette is safely pulled aboard, the crew introduces themselves as Paladins and the ship as the Royal Fortune. They give her dry clothes (ill-fitting as the uniform may be), a cup of weak tea, and a brief introduction to her circumstances. She spends the rest of the trip to Eltrut sitting up on the deck, quietly observing her surroundings as she processes the enormity of what has just happened to her.

She gets right into business mode once she disembarks. First is retreiving her belongings - inconvenient, but following the map isn't terribly difficult. Next is picking up her shellphone, followed by getting a tattoo at Inkwave. After she has the immediately important tasks out of the way, she finds a café and orders some actual tea and two slices of cake.

Lyney isn't here to tell her not to, after all. And even if he was, she feels like a little extra dessert is deserved after everything. ]

II. Rescue Mode (Elah's Island)

[ As luck (or lack thereof) would have it, Lynette's assigned faction is struggling with an increasingly tenuous island situation. Helping out is the least she can do.

Getting the residents of coastal towns and villages to safer ground is a vital task, and Lynette turns her attention to residents that cannot easily be reasoned with to evacuate on their own: stray animals and pets who have escaped their homes in fear during recent tremors. She's acquired a wagon and some kennels to transport them in, and can be found around the edges of the island rounding them up in various ways:

exchanging meows with a cat as she tries to convince it to come with her

attempting to drag a dog the same size as her toward her wagon with limited success

spacing out

etc.

She will also randomly approach strangers in safer towns with pictures of various dogs, cats, and other domestic animals. ]

Have you lost a pet recently? I'm working to reunite lost animals with their owners.

III. Defense Mode (Invasion)

[ Lynette's missions are usually of the behind-the-scenes espionage sort of variety. But as a daughter of the House of the Hearth, she is no stranger to combat. As such, she takes her place amongst the defenders of Elah as the need for coastal evacuations wanes and the sharkfolk approach.

She spies a sharkfolk attempting to take down someone from behind. Whether it's a fellow combatant or someone who's in the wrong place at the wrong time doesn't matter - she jumps down to intercept the blow. ]

I've got your back!

[ And with that, she engages. The sharkfolk is large, but Lynette is fast and precise. It's not long before she manages to get him to lumber off with a few wounds. ]

Are you all right?

IV. Miscellaneous Mode (Wildcard)

(( Want to hit Lynette with something else entirely? Go for it! I'm flexible. ))

ELAH'S ISLAND
🩹 Patch it up:
[No matter what his feelings on the Paladins are, it's not the normal citizens' fault, what happened. They're just people trying to get by. They don't deserve this. So, needless to say, he'll help them out as much as he can. He's tall, strong, he knows his way around technology.]

[Garrus can be found around the crumbling island city, doing whatever needs doing. Carrying equipment, securing supports. Even gluing things together here and there. Eventually, he'll be convinced to pause, working on a bigger crack. To grab some water and talk to anyone else who's working.]

... Do you really think this will hold?

[He hates to sound so pessimistic, but it feels more pragmatic than it does pessimist.]

🫨 Troubling tremors:
[Garrus is in the process of helping secure a house's crumbling wall when the next big tremor hits. The house isn't going to make it. They're not done bracing it yet. The crew he's with starts to get back, but - but there are sounds from inside. People yelling.]

They're still in there! [The house's occupants.] We need to get them out before it collapses!

[And it's a two-story building. Great.]

INVASION
⚔️ Defend
[Now this is where he knows what to do. Pick a perch, a defensible position, and open fire. It's not the beach from before, but it's a similar pattern. He's a sniper, first and foremost. Easier to pick off troublesome Krah from a distance. But...]

[But if there's any Riftfarers or locals struggling against the onslaught, he'll move in with his assault rifle instead.]

Behind you! [As he opens fire on the Krah attempting to sneak up on someone else in the fray.] I'm with you! Keep going.

[Keep fighting! He'll watch their back. Whomever it is.]

🪝Hooked
[He doesn't have a knife. Why does he not have a knife. There's a hook buried in the ground next to where he's ducked down, using rubble as cover from incoming Krah assault. He tries, bless his heart, to shoot at the rope. It's not... entirely effective.]

[So he throws a glance over at the nearest Riftfarer.]

- A knife! Do you have one!

[It's meant to be a question, but the urgency of the moment overrides anything else.]

wildcard;
[If you're looking for a different prompt or want something specific, feel free to hit me up on plurk

redfirelight

I. Outside Inkwave

[It's strange. Upon arrival, he felt lighter, but as he moved through the motions, trying to understand what the typewriter was instructing him to do, finding his belongings in the cargo hold of the ship on which he'd found himself, finding sleep when exhaustion found him rather than depression only to wake in a cold sweat from another nightmare.

But the lightness begins to feel like an emptiness, dragging his steps as the red cape billows around his armored feet in the salt air off the sea upon Eltrut. It turns into an ache in his chest as the shellphone clerk finishes setting up his device and he only marginally listens to their explanation.

His chest. It wasn't-

He'd hoped to avoid the tattoo he was recommended, that he might live here without Chaos demanding its due from him, but without it he-

And so he finds his way to the tattoo parlor, only vaguely aware of the strange octopus clerk.

That is until he does his work. Fire erupts in Vincent's chest as Chaos returns to him, his eyes glowing with a vibrant inner light. He stumbles from the business, knees buckling as he falls to his hands and knees, breathing hoarse and rapid.

It might be wise to stay back as he tries to rein in control of the beast within him.

Or to aid him and avoid the destruction of nearby property, at least until he's got himself under control.]

II. Heartbreak Hotel

[He really isn't intending to take part in this brawl. He's minding his own business in a shadowy corner of this particular tavern, a half-full glass of wine sitting within reach but untouched. He's watching the proceedings from behind dark locks, expression partially obscured by his high-collared cape.

He'll participate if he's forced to, but he's trying his best to stay out of it.]

III. MANTA office?

[The clerks at the shellphone store had told him to check his map for directions to the MANTA office, but he'd only been half-listening, and now he's on a random street corner, frowning at his shellphone as though his look of confusion will be enough to will the map into existence.

It isn't, and if you're fortunate enough to walk past him, the tall, thin man in the leather and the red opera cape with cut glowing red eyes at you, shows his phone screen to you, and asks in a deep, somewhat hoarse voice.]

Where is the map?

IV. wildcard

[Want something else with Vincent? Go for it! Hit me up on discord (vikael) or PM if you want to plot something or do something specific!]

⚡ i. in the water

[This has got to be just her luck, doesn't it? Defeat a god, flashbang, blink, and the next second, she's submerged in water. The shock of it is so jarring that she isn't spared even a moment to gather her bearings or figure out what this is. A dream, an illusion, reality? Not that it matters. All that matters is that she tries to stay afloat, and for those dreadful seconds before she manages to find some semblance of consciousness, she flails her arms just to keep her head above water, sputtering and coughing it up all the while.

Fortunately (only a little) for her, the ship that is docked nearby seems to have some people on it, and she looks like a wet cat as she tries to claw her way up the side of the ship in search of a life raft, something to float on, or hell, even a rope would do her some good. Too bad it's way too high.]

Hey.

[She calls out to whoever is up there and can hear her when she does spot a rope dangling over the edge, swaying in the wind as if to taunt her. She's already in a terrible mood, the water is cold, and that is not helping.]

Throw that down to me, would you?

⚡ ii. around eltrut

[After being dumped into the ocean and needing to be fished out of it, she can't say she's too pleased about this very unfortunate series of events. She is dressed in rags, can't find her clothes or her gunblade, and she was only given a small pouch of money and a map for her troubles. What the hell is up with that? She thought about stealing someone else's clothes from the ship before she departed—would have been easy with all the other shit that's apparently going on—but ultimately decided against wasting her time trying to find that and set out in search of her things.

Which are apparently located in a chest. On top of a giant turtle's shell.

She's seen some shit, but this is definitely one of the strangest and raises a lot of questions. Yeah, this has got to be just a really messed up dream, and she needs to find a way to wake herself up. Now.

So she'll be found all around Shellton, first at the Minstrel and Cask demanding answers from anyone who will listen, and perhaps tiptoeing on the verge of a tavern fight when one particularly drunk cat-shaped man decides he'd rather shit talk her than help. Might want to break this up before it starts, the tension in this corner is palpable and ready to snap.

If not there, she's wandering the streets looking completely lost, the "map" in her hands turning over several times because what the hell sort of magic drew this thing? If anyone could offer her some directions, that would be great.]

Damn map is garbage. Doesn't even tell you what the street names are, so how the hell's anyone supposed to figure out what it means?

⚡ iii. obligatory stuck together

[Why is she here? Yeah, it's as good a question as any. Call her a busybody, needing something to keep herself occupied and her thoughts away from spiraling into frustration again. She's yet to find many answers that she is satisfied with, and feels even further away from finding a way back home, but she wasn't about to sit around and do nothing while she waited. Might as well try to help where she can, and maybe—just maybe—someone will be able to tell her what it is she wants to know.

Except she is severely regretting doing so now when she feels some resistance when she tries to step away from whoever is standing next to her working on making this adhesive.]

The hell? Get off me.

[And she'll try to move again, jerking her arm away and unceremoniously dragging said partner with her without realizing that they are, indeed, stuck together—]

⚡ iv. live bait

[Now dealing with something like this is right up her alley. Gunblade in hand, she wastes no time in defending against the attack of the sharks, nor does she waste any time in dragging someone else in for the ride. After proving that simply fending them off won't do much good in the long run, it's time to try another tack.

Eyes on one of the cages, Lightning grabs whoever is nearest her by their shirt and drags them over, the barrel of her gunblade pointing right at them.]

Hurry up and get in.

[Because there is absolutely no way that she is getting in there, but someone's gotta. :)]

⚡ v. wildcard

[ I suck at writing top levels so feel free to wildcard whatever you like! Everything is fair game! If you'd like to plot out something specific, you can poke me via PM or at

crystariums! Just FYI this is very, very tentative right now.]

I. Arrival – Royal Fortune
[Erichthonios is not one of the unlucky souls who plummet into the water. However, he is one of the unlucky souls to get caught in the net—and in spectacular fashion at that. Weight striking the edge, he ends up snared—by his leg and upside down, the folding and constriction of the ropes the only thing stopping him from a very unpleasant landing.

Startled and a bit dazed, it takes him a moment to fully register his precarious position, whereupon he stretches out a hand to engage his teleportation magicks...

...to find it does absolutely nothing.]

...Oh no.

[How is he going to get out of this one?]

II. On Eltrut
[Fresh off the dock, Erichthonios immediately immerses himself in the consultation of his paper and the maps upon it, attempting to orient himself. He stands there for a good few minutes, and yet, when he at last starts moving, he goes in an entirely different direction from most of the other newly arrived.]

It should be...this way.

[His stride purposeful, he seems to be heading resolutely in the wrong direction.]

III. Patch it up
I wonder... why is an isle floating atop the water in such an unstable situation when it would be better floating upon the air instead? 'Tis not anchored to a continental landmass.

...Mayhap it lacks the aetherial characteristics to do so? But then, how did it form? And more importantly, how do we keep it from sinking...?

[He's talking to himself. He is very clearly talking to himself. He should probably not be doing this in the middle of a walking path.]

IV. Potluck
[Eager to lend his aid but still very, very new to the situation, Erichthonios falls back on one thing he know he can do—feed people. Attendees of the potlucks may now and then spot the man dipping apples in candied syrup. If they should happen to pause, he will glance up.]

Would you like one? 'Tis an easy treat to eat as one moves.

V. Live bait
[It takes all of two seconds for Erichthonios to agree to the idea of going into the cage.]

I shall go in.

[He smiles, the expression a little sheepish. He’s not used to talking well of himself.]

'Twould not be the first time a set of cage bars is the only thing between me and danger.

Called up again

[Faris was surprised to find himself back home. Home in his world, aboard his ship... back where he was meant to be.

Hard to say how long it lasted. More than a day. Maybe a week or two. And then he walked into the cabin and found that damn ship in a bottle again...

Well, he's here and dry now. And some things are all too familiar, but not everything. Time to find out what's going on and what's happened since he's been away.]

Hoi, you! [whoever You happens to be in this current context.] What sort of mischief is afoot his month?

[Or, you can find Faris outside of the shellphone shop, scrolling through... and scrolling... and scrolling...]

By Neptune's briny beard, how long have I been away from this place?

Rotten in the state of Elah

[Having gotten the idea that a lot has happened, Faris was trying to reappraise himself of this place when he caught sight of the state of Elah.

Last he remembered, Elah was... well... Elah. A great whale with a town on its back, just as Nogard was a sea dragon that could shed and reform its flesh at need (something Faris had always found more than a little upsetting, if she wanted to admit it).

But while Nogard is hale and hearty in its strange way, Elah... clearly... is not. Faris thumps his boot down on the surface of the island. She can feel the tremor from the stamp travel back up too quickly, hear the hollow note to it. It seems to reach into Faris' gut... a terrible, terrible feeling.]

What happened to this place?

Hidden treasures

[Well, one thing about this place is still the same, and that's the manifold opportunities for exploration and treasure... not to mention the strangeness of the places that treasure can be found. The isle of the snail people isn't where Faris expected to be going today... but since when has he wound up in expected places? Life's no fun that way.

And a volcano is a suitably thrilling setting for a treasure hunt.

Faris scans the smoking slopes with a spyglass.]

'Twill be a difficult climb up there. [He grins.] Lava flows, hostile beasts. Are ye up for it?

Wildcard

[Feel free to hit me up by PM or

compassinks for plotting!]

Edited 2025-06-18 03:33 (UTC)

No spoilers in the top-levels and for non-canon mates, unless stated otherwise, or if I know you've played the game. Any spoilers will be marked accordingly.
prompts can be collapsed as necessary.

potluck—

[This type of scene isn't unfamiliar to Verso, helping out others in time of need, banding together to distribute food and supplies to those who are still recovering or are simply in need of sustenance. But, while familiar, it had been some time since he had last experienced it.

He looks on, contemplating helping out, eyes darting from station to station as he stands with cinched brows, keeping a safe distance away from everyone. As much as he wanted to help, it dredged up bad memories that kept him from stepping forward.

But before he knows it, a local shoves an apron and a ladle his way. Verso looks down to see a local woman, staring right at him, a stern expression plastered on her face. "If you have time to stand and gawk, you have time to give out food. What are you waiting for?" she says.

Verso looks at the two items in his hands and then to the side to any passer-by after the woman walks out of earshot.]

You don't suppose I can skip out on the apron?

slime products—

[Using the substance for glue he can understand, especially after seeing some of the adverse effects even in the short time he's been here. Lotion? He can even let that slide, even if it didn't seem like a conventional ingredient in any way. It wasn't like he was from here, who was he to judge?

But he reaches out to the bottle before him, his expression somewhere between confusion and piqued curiosity, a brow raised despite the slight furrow of his brow.]

Slime wine? Just when you thought you've seen it all.

[He has tried all sorts of wine both from Lumière and the odd ones on the continent, but never something like this. Turning the bottle in his hand, he examines the contents, a sludgey material settling at the bottom, moving slowly in contract to its more liquid counterpart that sat above it.]

fire cyclops—

[It isn't so much bravery or foolishness that brings Verso in search of the fire cyclops as much as it is curiosity. It was the type of thing he would do in the Continent from time to time, searching nooks and crannies in search of undiscovered areas, and possibly more answers or opportunities to lead him to his goal. In this world, his current goal is to know more about it, so he could devise some sort of plan, figure out his next steps.

Okay, maybe it is a little bit of foolishness, considering the time he's spent with Monoco. Which is his last thought before he hears rumbling deeper within the volcano, followed by a growl.]

Sounds like our friend needs a lesson in subtlety. That or he wants to be found.

[Maybe you joined Verso before heading in or perhaps you happen to be passing by when he mouths the words. Regardless, it might be a good idea to stick together if the stories about this creature are to be trusted. And with that guttural growl, it certainly seemed to be the case.]

hooked—

[Perhaps you've been at this for a while, trying to fend off the grappling hooks flying your way or removing it from the earth itself. Or maybe you've just gotten here and are still figuring out the best way to deal with the sharkfolks' onslaught as parts of the island crumbles before your very eyes. Maybe you're distracted, or overwhelmed, or maybe just not paying enough attention. No matter the case, a large hook is coming towards you, flying through the air in search of purchase.

Before it grapples onto you or in your immediate vicinity, you hear a loud clang of metal meeting metal, and the hook falls limp on the ground before being pulled back towards where it came.]

Might want to keep your eyes towards the enemy, mon ami.

[Verso stands in front of your character, blade in front of him, ready to parry any other attacks that might come, eyes trained to the distance. In his other hand sits a small knife that suddenly dissipates into a flutter of white petals before disappearing completely.]

You all right? [Just going to take the opportunity to check on whoever it is he just saved, while there is a lull from the sharkfolks' assault.]

wildcard—

[Hit me with something else besides what's listed above! For more planning, poke me on discord through the game chat or at riyuji, or on

riyuji.]

ADOPORTSAG
💦 Stuck together
[This is not how he wanted to start his week.]

[Your griffon ward backing into a table containing a bunch of jars. You diving to keep them from crashing to the ground and getting inadvertently... glued. To the nearest person. He exhales, sharply. While Assan ducks under another table, looking like a worried puppy.]

Sorry - should have kept a better eye on him.

[Looks like Davrin and this new friend are stuck together!]

🌦️ Rainy weather
Wet griffon, coming through - !

[That's the only warning anyone gets, if they're also under the tree. That's it. And then a griffon the size of a great dane bursts in, soaking wet. Davrin is in hot pursuit to avert the worst.]

[He's a heartbeat too slow. No sooner is Assan the griffon out of the rain then he's starting to shake himself off. Again, like a dog. Also, like a dog, this involves showering whoever else is under the tree with more water. Davrin tries his best to throw his cloak over Assan, but it's only marginally effective.]

- I need to get him a leash.

👁️ Fire Cyclops
[A monster? One that needs to be taken care of for the locals? It's threatening people? Well, sign him up. Time to gear up and go slay a monster.]

[Before he goes out, Davrin can be found in any kind of information archive he can find. Looking through any writing or descriptions of the monster. If that doesn't pan out, he'll go to observations.]

[And then?]

[Then he is going to throw down. With sword, shield, and griffon. Whose shrieks can probably be heard for a long ways off. He's not magical, so if anyone comes across the scene of one lone Warden doing great battle with a towering lava monster, please join in. There's a girffon overhead dropping rocks onto the creature, both of them trying to herd it toward the edge of a lava chasm.]

wildcard;
( Davrin is mostly on the Snail Island this time around, but if there's anything you'd like to thread with him, gimme a shout out @

redfirelight )

Edited 2025-06-19 21:38 (UTC)

Stuck together

Working on the snail-glue seemed like an alright task, as far as the options went. It’s a little boring, but Faulkner isn’t having a bad time, at first. But then he’ll accidentally brush up against someone, or they will, or someone will get careless handing an ingredient off to someone else.

It doesn’t really matter how it happens or who’s more at fault: he’s stuck to a stranger either way.

“Bait an’ flesh,” he mutters, as he tries to pull away and suddenly finds he can’t.

“Dammit. They weren’t exaggerating, huh,” he says, making another attempt all the same.

Snail feeding

“You’re… actually sort of cute,” he tells the snail currently taking a large leaf from his hand.

“In a very slimy kind of way.”

He was a little intimidated by how big they are, but it turns out that feeding them is a fairly relaxing task.

“You want to try giving ‘em some treats?” he’ll ask, if he happens to see anyone nearby who isn’t already feeling the snails.

Rainy weather

While he can deal with being uncomfortable if he has to, he’d still prefer not to be sopping wet. Which means right now his best option was huddling under a large leaf, waiting for the rain to pass.

He peers out from under it, and if he spots anyone else looking like they’re trying to get out of the downpour he’ll call them over.

“Hey, under here!”

While he’s noticing a slightly stronger floral scent than there was before the weather changed, he’s not especially concerned about that yet.

Sacrifices (For Fenris + later Sidestep + possibly more with plotting)

Faulkner isn’t surprised so much as he is mildly disappointed.

He’d already been asking the locals more than a few questions about their snail goddess, partly from genuine curiosity about this world… and partly from a very ingrained belief that one should always be wary of local gods.

Because, of course, back home the locals trying to sacrifice you is simply a common and largely expected travel hazard. While everyone seems to think this world is very different, this isn’t helping convince him of that.

It is a little strange that the other local snails seem surprised by the whole sacrifice idea, but it’s possible they just want to pretend it’s a new problem to save face. Either way, the snail who warns him gets a weary sigh, and a muttered of course they are.

But regardless of his feelings on the matter, or of the fact that he’s spent plenty of time on the cultist side of things, too—someone needs to do something about it.

Not that he expects to be much use on his own.

Which means it’s a stroke of luck when he spots someone he’s already seen prove himself very dangerous in a fight.

“Fenris!”

Wildcard Feel free to throw me a wildcard or hit me up on

badgirlcoven or strixoid on discord

Edited 2025-06-20 03:36 (UTC)

Threaded | Flat

GETTING STARTED

ELAH'S ISLAND

ADOPORTSAG

INVASION

QUESTS

TDM QUESTIONS

Maelle | Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 | Corsair | TDM

Sylvain | FE3H | Paladin | TDM