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Welcome to the Test Drive Meme for

escordvi! Anyone can participate in the test drive, regardless of invite eligibility. Just keep in mind that only those who have received invitations from the mods can actually reserve on October 25th and apply on November 1st. Our EMP/ATP can be found here.

For your toplevel, please include the following: Character Name | Canon | Armada Choice | TDM (IF TDMING). Current players can use the same header, just without the "TDM" label. We do require those who are TDMin'g to include the label so other players can distinguish between others.

For everyone's convenience, TDM threads can be carried over in game if you wish! If you are still unsure which armada to place your character, you can play it a bit loose and vague in the TDM and make retroactive changes if you carry over the threads. The log itself is set to cover the IC dates of October 11 for new arrivals to appear, and October 25th until the end of the month for the event itself. Characters will appear at random intervals during this time rather than all at once, so players have some more flexibility on how much more adjusted they are for someone else.

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

TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated October 29)

GETTING STARTED

This section can be timed for any time after October 11th until the end of the month, which includes during the current event. These prompts are to benefit those TDMing, but this portion can be handwaved instead and serve as a reference for players to know what their character will have experienced and learned on arrival.

STARTER SHIPS

There are two ships that serve as starting ships for each armada: Stormbringer for the Corsairs, and Royal Fortune for the Paladins. There are various ways new arrivals—or riftfarers as they will be called, among other creative names—will appear on or by these ships. The crews for both ships will also seem a bit odd to some, as it is a mix of humans and various animal folk, non-humans that look more animal than human. Some just look like large versions of their smaller counterparts. From birds, to seals, to even bears, there is no shortage of interesting faces and people on these ships.

🚪 Random room. It could be empty, filled with crates or supplies; down in the hull where the livestock are kept; have the luck to awaken in a bed...or the misfortune of that bed already occupied; somewhere in the kitchens; in the bathroom—any room! Now let's hope the doors can open or someone may have to try and ask for help. Or jump through the porthole if there is one and it's above water.
⛵ On deck. If not in the ship itself, another possible spot to wake up to is somewhere on the maindeck. If they're lucky, they're on the deck itself. More unfortunate souls may find themselves caught in the sails or netting, the crow's nest, or on the top of the masts. Someone should be able to help, right? Or catch.
🌊 In the water. The most unlucky sods will find themselves appearing in mid-air just past the ship and plummeting straight into the water. Good news, there's always someone on the lookout for such a thing and calls for help to throw a lifesaver get the rowboat will be made. Are there sharks? Well... ...Are there?

However the new riftfarers arrive, they will be poorly clothed, practically rags or loose uniforms depending on the ship. Fortunately, veteran crewmates will guide them, escorting them to a room with a strange typewriter in it. After typing their name, the typewriter will magically continue and type by itself at a fast pace until it dings and rolls out the paper. This paper will have the following information:

• Name and Shellphone ID (journalname)
• Armada (Corsair or Paladin, will match the starter ship)
• Cabin Number for their personal cabin on the starter ship
• Apartment Address for their personal address at their base armada location
• A basic map of the starting locations in Eltrut, including written directions (continued in the Eltrut section)
• A basic map of where they can find a chest with their original clothes and belongings (this will be different for every person and will be anywhere either on the starter ship or on Eltrut—players can be creative here).

After that, the crewmate will do their best to explain the basics of how they got here, what's going on, and what they'll need to do to live in Escordvi while they are here, giving them a small leather pouch with money. They will be reaching Eltrut soon, so the crewmate will suggest they look around, meet the others who have arrived. Even from their distance, they will be able to see the giant sea turtle that serves as Eltrut's leviathan.

ON ELTRUT

Once in Eltrut, the new riftfarers will be greeted by several birdfolk who will be happy to give tours to those who may need them. Otherwise, anyone is free to roam as they please and will have a map for the following main places they should visit.

🐚 Microshell. The first stop that is encouraged will be Microshell, the main store to acquire their own personal Shellphone. The paper they received on their starter ship will have their ID and the staff at the store will set them up, explaining how the device and the network works.
✒️ Inkwave, Tattoo Parlor. The next stop is Inkwave, a tattoo parlor run by a very burly but friendly octopus, Knistej. Here everyone receives their own unique magic tattoo, allowing anyone to cast specific single element spells and other magic. Note: tattoos are required before anyone will be able to use their original magical abilities.
📜 MANTA office. The final stop is the MANTA office, where all the request, mission, and task notices are posted. Each armada has their own branch office for armada specific notices as well. A great place to find jobs to earn some cash so they don't stay a hobo forever.

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

On the evening of the 30th, the Naughtilust will steadily make its way over towards Eltrut and stop within ferryboat distance of Shellton. The two leviathans will greet each other with friendly accord, the Naughtilust presenting its friend with a large pumpkin shell filled with delicious treats for it to enjoy. All the shops, taverns, inns, brothels, and all entertainment services will be open all night long, and while the main target audience are adults, they do provide some "safe," family friendly entertainment for the younger crowd. Special dancers, musicians, and other entertainers line the streets on the Naughtilust to provide all kinds of delight.

However, the main highlight is the grand masquerade which is held at the Helice Palace, one of the largest and grandest buildings on the leviathan. As its name suggests, it is designed to fit the image of royalty, with large gardens, multiple ballrooms, grand halls, private and public terraces, and enough rooms to house any guest who may wish to spend the night (with a partner). Normally one would have to pay a hefty fee, but for the Ghoul's Moon, the sirens are opening it up for one grand fee of attending the masquerade and dressing one's best.

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

It's still the Naughtilust, after all.

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

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

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

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

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

Outside the Helice Palace are special gardens that one can take a romantic stroll around and host hauntingly beautiful weddings under the blood moon. They boast a number of different flora, small hedge mazes, gazebos, and fine statues for those to enjoy. There are also many shaded corners and little hideaways that couples can hide in should they wish to enjoy something else. This year, the flowers in particular fit the theme, with bloody red and black roses and some should be wary as the flowers may be even scream out or whisper eerie tidings. A number of tombstones also fill the area. Perfect for creating a haunting ambience to cling onto each other.

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

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

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

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

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

GHOST PROBLEMS

All threads for these prompts are worth 4pts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

QUESTS

The current MANTA Board is available, but we have a couple of additional quests that are specific for the event! Teaming up is of course encouraged, no matter what the affiliation. You can assume they acquired some kind of ship for the quests out at sea, either the starter ship or some other ship heading out there. All quests will be worth 4 points.

Killer Sharkgulls

Eltrut port and ships

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

Message in a Bottle

Everywhere

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

Plundering Pumpkins

Everywhere

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

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ Zelda places one hand on Darin's arm, as if trying to steady him. What in the world is happening? One moment, it's just the two of them, sharing promises before the candles representing their lost loved ones. The next, there's some strange ghost forcing himself between them, panicking about marrying his betrothed.

Normally, Zelda tries to be empathetic of others. And normally, that isn't a terrible challenge for her.

But normally, she is not sharing an intimate moment with a man who might be about to confess his love to her. ]

Which is quite discourteous of him. But not nearly as discourteous as keeping his betrothed waiting for centuries.

[ Zelda is looking crossly at Darin... because, unfortunately, the third wheel trying to tag along them is currently using her date to hide himself. ]

N-No! No, you don't understand! I didn't keep her waiting on purpose! I was going to marry her! But my ship! It was caught in a storm!

[Darin shakes his head vigorously.]

Then why the hell are you bothering us?! I've already got one extra guy inside of me! Two is making things a little stifling!

[He twitches again as the phantom retakes control.]

I'm sorry! I just...I'm scared! I'm scared that she'll have moved on! I was never good enough for her to begin with! What if she's not waiting where we promised??

[ "Perhaps you should go there and find out for certain."

The retort leaps to her tongue, but Zelda forces herself to hold it back. Snapping at the ghost is getting them nowhere. It seems to be capable of taking control of Darin with little effort... quite possibly because he has no training to resist this sort of thing. The princess engaged in vigorous mental training throughout her adolescence; had the ghost chosen to possess her, Zelda would likely be able to banish it from inside her.

For now, perhaps some empathy will be more effective in convincing this ghost to leave than fighting with it. ]

Well, have you visited the location to find out for certain? I hardly think it fair for you to assume the worst of a woman who agreed to marry you.

No...I'm honestly too scared to look. I know it's selfish of me. But if she's not there...I don't know how I could live—

YOU'RE ALREADY DEAD YOU WISPY SONUVA—

You know what I mean! You don't understand! She's too good for me! I'm just a soldier! A woman of her pedigree could have been with anyone she chose! She probably moved on!

[Darin shakes his head and rubs his temple.]

...Wait, hold on. If you're meeting her here then...

Yes...Helice Palace was once her home. Ages ago.

[Darin looks at Zelda and it's clear that it's actually him this time.]

Edited 2024-11-06 06:18 (UTC)

[ Zelda visibly stiffens. Up until now, she had been assuming that the ghost's insistence that his betrothed was too good for him was simply hyperbole. But if she once lived in Helice Palace-- and not as a servant, the ghost seems to imply-- then that would make her a noblewoman, if not outright royalty. And if the ghost calls himself "just a soldier," then that would suggest he is without military rank or noble title.

A noble lady and a common man, with the gulf of their classes dividing them.

Her lips draw into a thin line as she looks at Darin, trying to keep any emotion from showing in her face. This is impossible. It has to be a farce. Darin must be putting on an act, pretending to be possessed for the sake of... of some sort of joke. Why he'd make a joke like this, Zelda doesn't know. He probably has no idea how close to home it hits her.

And if this is how he feels, that the idea of love between a noble lady and a common man is laughable, then she'll make certain he never finds out how she feels.

... But Darin isn't the kind of person to make a cruel joke like this. It may be the most logical explanation, but Zelda can't help but think it's the wrong one. The truth might be exactly how he, or the ghost, says it is. ]

You do her a great disservice by making these assumptions of her. [ Zelda's tone is unusually chilly. She's starting to take this personally. ]

Enough of this cowering. You are a man of her service, are you not? Tell me where the two of you agreed to meet. Darin and I shall be happy to offer our support and accompany you.

What? N-No! No, please...if she's not there I wouldn't be able to—

[Darin jerks himself hard, as if forcibly wresting control of himself back.]

You're telling me you're satisfied with an eternity of never knowing? You're gonna tell me that's preferable to the alternative? I can't tell if you drowned or if you're still drowning but your love must be pretty weak if you lose faith in her faith.

[There's no answer and Darin straightens up, glancing at Zelda.]

The fact that you're even here suggests that you have faith in her. If you didn't, why would you even be scared?

Love's not for cowards...

[ Zelda nods in agreement to Darin, but in truth, she's never thought about it before. She's always assumed that love would be easy, like in the legends of ancient heroes and princesses that have been told throughout Hyrule for millennia.

But ever since she first started to feel it herself (if that is what she feels; she's still not sure), she's been terrified. It's such a strong, all encompassing feeling, dominating her thoughts no matter how she fights against it. And even if she were certain of her feelings, to tell them to Darin would risk destroying the friendship they have built together. She does not dare take such a gamble.

The soldier's ghost is far more brave than Zelda is giving him credit for.

The harshness in her countenance softens. ] Indeed. It must have taken a great deal of courage to ask for her hand. And to tell her of your love to begin with.

[ Zelda places a hand on Darin's arm. It's alarming that this ghost has as much control over Darin as it does; Darin's jerky movements suggest that he is struggling to retain any control over himself. How long can he keep this up? And what will happen if the ghost overpowers him entirely? It's clear that it needs to find out what happened to the lady of Helice Palace in order to pass on. Zelda would rather convince it to go willingly to the promised meeting place than to drag it (and Darin) around the entire palace looking for that place. The sooner its unresolved business is resolved, the sooner she can ask Darin what he was about to tell her before they were so rudely interrupted. ]

[There's a long pause and Darin's uncertain if the specter is even there or not. But he jerks sharply as he loses control once more.]

I...she's my everything. I still yet linger simply because I could not keep my promise. What if it's her hate that causes her to linger?

[Darin resumes control with a shake of his head and a jerk of his shoulder and a laugh.]

Hah! Take it from me, hate brings people back but love is what makes you stay. And I probably would have agreed with you before tonight.

Where would she be waiting for you? Let's go see for ourselves.

[There's silence before Darin yelps and starts walking with big, exaggerated motions. His hand snaps out and grabs Zelda's before he can get too far. He glance back at Zelda with a laugh.]

I think we got through to him...

[ Zelda can't help her amused snort at the way Darin awkwardly lumbers forward. She's just about to follow after him when his hand darts out to grab hers and he drags her along behind him. ]

So-- so it would seem. [ She says haltingly, trying not to stumble too much from the jarring pace he sets.

For a moment, Zelda looks as though she's about to say something else. What did he mean when he said he probably would have agreed with the ghost before tonight? What changed tonight? And could it have something to do with what he was about to say before the ghost interrupted? She really wants to ask...

But she can't bring herself to. It-- it can wait until after this ghost business is settled. Then she'll ask.

Despite the awkwardness with which it maneuvers Darin's body, the ghost seems to be completely confident in its directions as it navigates the labyrinthine interior of Helice Palace's ground floor. After a few twists and turns, they reach an inconspicuous side door that opens up directly into the palace gardens. ]

Edited 2024-11-07 01:57 (UTC)

[Darin looks around at the meticulously cultivated gardens. How much of this was a holdover from the previous residents and how much was from the current caretakers? Elaborate fountains and meticulously trimmed hedge sculptures dot the grounds with winding cobblestone paths weave their way through. The garden is dotted with incredibly tall hedges, speckled with flowers of various colors and shapes made all the more eerie under the blood moon. It almost looks like parts of a maze that's been disassembled and strewn about. These high hedge and vine walls make perfect bulwarks for secret rendezvous and trysts...like something you'd find in a tawdry novel about royal affairs.]

We...had a spot where we agreed to meet. Where I would whisk her away over the garden wall and we could be free.

[Darin clears his own throat as he regains his voice.]

You guys must have planned this for a long time...

[There's no response as Darin begins to walk again. His gait is more even now as Darin willingly lets his ghost passenger steer. It's the oddest feeling in the world...]

[All the while he wonders if maybe he should have left to deal with this alone instead of dragging Zelda into it. Gods, what was he even about to say to her? Was he seriously going to tell her that she loved him? How could he put her in that position? First of all, there's no way she felt the same. Saying something like that would jeopardize the friendship they've cultivated. But to confess his love to her knowing she'd have to go back to Hyrule one day? It would tear her up inside.]

[He couldn't do that to her...]

[Darin comes to a stop in front of a large, wrought iron gazebo. It stands in a secluded corner of the garden, blocked on three sides by tall shrubbery. The gazebo itself is entangled with vines bursting with roses and thorns, a monument to both the dangers, beauty, and perseverance of love...]

..I..I knew it. She's not here. Why would she be...?

At least I know she hasn't lingered out of hatred for me...

[ The corner of the garden where the ghost has brought them is as beautiful as it is haunting. Iron spires rise up from the elegantly twisted roof of the gazebo, their points clawing at the blood red moon like so many sharp talons. The rose bushes that must have once neatly circled the gazebo are wildly overgrown from centuries of neglect, tangled tightly around every iron rod, as if they mean to shackle the structure in place. Roses, red as blood and black as pitch, are in full bloom under the eerie moonlight.

Just as the ghost feared, the structure stands empty and silent.

But Zelda is not convinced. They only just got here; they haven't even taken a proper look around. ]

You are too quick to give up. [ She chides as she withdraws her hand from Darin's grip. ] She has waited for you for centuries; surely you can spend more than a minute searching for her.

[ Zelda lifts her dress and makes her way over to the gazebo. Despite its obvious age, it looks remarkably sturdy, so she climbs the steps and walks inside. The red moonlight streams down through the gazebo's open roof, broken into jagged shapes by the overgrown vines, shining fragments of crimson glass slicing across the princess's form.

Her presence in the gazebo stirs a slumbering spirit. All of the sudden, the roses erupt with ear-splitting screeching as the spectre's whispy form strikes as a bolt down from the rafters into Zelda's back.

Zelda cries out-- at the same time that the roses go silent-- and stumbles forward. She throws out her hands to shield herself, but instead of falling, she freezes in place. She slumps forward, sagging at the waist like a marionette on loose strings.

Then, the spirit manages to gain control, awkwardly attempting to straighten and stand Zelda upright. ]

Young lovers...

[ The snarl that comes from Zelda's lips is in her voice, but sounds all wrong, dry and raspy as if from disuse. Her face, strangely, displays no emotion; her eyes are vacant, almost lifeless. ]

...Turn 'round and leave whence you came. This alcove is spoken for.

And if you don't...

[ The puppeteer raises Zelda's right arm by the wrist and presses the hand against her throat. Fumbling as the gesture seems, there's no mistaking the threat.

Given the scene, it would be an easy thing to overlook, but Zelda's left hand, still hanging at her side, has tightened into a fist. And on her face, the pupils of her empty eyes are ringed in gold, as though her green irises are changing color. ]

Zelda!

[Darin wrenches control back from his ghostly passenger with a strength so pronounced, he almost ejects him from his body altogether. He steps forward, arm outstretched to reach her and finds his arm ensnared with iron-like thorny vines that bite into his muscles like a bear trap.]

[Darin snarls as the long thorns dig in, but pushes forward anyway, only to have his other arm similarly bound. The vines wrap around him like tendrils, tightening as he pushes forward through the bramble.]

LET HER GO!! If you hurt her, I swear to whatever hell you crawled out from I'll...!

[He snarls and gnashes his teeth as he continues to struggle— as his anger ignites the godly power within him. The thick vines binding him begin to stretch and tear, ripping with whip-like snaps, tearing the sleeves from his formal attire and streaking his muscular arms with cuts and piercing wounds as he extracts his arms from their vice-like grasp.]

[But he ignores the pain. He pushes through to the gazebo and reaches out, seizing the hand around Zelda's throat to pull it away.]

[And in a moment, all control is ripped from his frame the second his hand touches hers. His body seizes up as if he'd just gripped a live wire.]

...Elise??

[ The ghost possessing Zelda doesn't flinch as Darin approaches, even as his anger mounts, fueling his inhuman strength enough for him to snap through the first of the vines ensnaring him. She simply redoubles her efforts, wordlessly commanding more of them to shackle Darin in place. The vines constrict around his arms, thorns puncturing his skin like dozens of sharp teeth. Blood blossoms from the wounds like so many crimson rosebuds, vicious and beautiful. How so like the love that lingers in the ghost's heart, strangling it like the vines trying to strangle this intruder.

Many paramours have tried to challenge the ghost in the past, after she took hold of their partners in order to command them leave this vista. Find somewhere else in the garden to pursue your pleasures. This gazebo is occupied, even though its occupant has long since slipped beyond the veil of life. She still waits for her betrothed, the man who promised to spirit her away from her lonesome life to begin a new one with him. And when better to end life as the Lady of Helice Palace than when the Ghoul's Moon is at its apex and the spirits of the dead walk free? It matters not that she no longer draws breath. Her beloved will come for her. The lady will remain here until then... or until Envoy Jades himself drags her to the Farplane.

Should anyone else try to occupy this space... well, the lady does not want to kill the lovers who wander into her gazebo, but she is not to blame if her command to leave goes unheard.

The moment Darin's hand connects with Zelda's, it feels as though that same electric current leaps right through her at the same time. Her limp body jolts violently and she jerks her head up with a loud gasp.

The next two things happen in quick succession. The lady blinks Zelda's eyes rapidly, as if she has only now managed to take control of them. They grow wide at the sound of a very familiar name spoken in a very unfamiliar tongue. ]

Hect--?

[ But before the lady can get the name out, there is a blinding flash as a radiant ring of golden light materializes around Zelda's neck. The lady opens Zelda's mouth and lets out an angry shriek-- which is cut off abruptly as Zelda finally wrenches back control of her body.

Immediately, the vines ensnaring Darin loosen and drop to the ground all at once. Zelda stumbles back a step, closing her eyes and pressing her hand to her forehead. ]

Don't-- [ She tries to speak, but is interrupted with by a coughing fit. Her hand slips down to cover her mouth until the fit passes. Then she straightens up again, opening her eyes. Her irises glow golden with divinity. ] --Don't you dare try to control my body without my consent.

[For a moment, the spirit inside of Darin's body is elated. Relief and jubilation wash over Darin's features for but a moment before Zelda wrests control of her body from its invader in a show of golden, radiant light. The flash is enough to send Darin staggering a few paces back as he shields his eyes.]

[When Zelda seems to be in control once more, Darin's mind is flooded with rage and panic. The soldier taking refuge in his body is overcome with irrational fear. As far as he can tell, the woman— the love of his afterlife has just been banished to the Farplane. Or oblivion. Or worse. For a moment they were reunited, his fears assuaged only to be replaced with new ones.]

ELISE!

[These fears give rise to action and Darin's muscular body lurches forward, both bloody arms reaching for Zelda.]

What the hell have you done with her you—

[Darin's body freezes mid-reach. His muscles bulge. The stitching on his formal regalia, now nothing more than a shredded vest strains as Darin's green eyes take on an eerie, otherworldly yellow. Almost a sickly golden hie replace the emerald green of his irises. And from his outstretched hands, crackling, pale blue sparks manifest. They flash in splitsecond bursts and take the form of chains; brands that imprint themselves on his arms— no...not just his arms. They flash around his chest under his clothes. His entire body is shackled with split-second flashes of interlocking brands of energy. And just as quickly as they flash into existence do they disappear. Darin's eyes return to their natural emerald hue and he straightens up.]

Wrong move, buddy. I gave you some rope and you just hung yourself with it.

You're a guest in my house...so you play by my rules...

[He takes a step towards Zelda and offers a hand to her cautiously.]

Are you alright, Zelda...?

Edited 2024-11-07 23:36 (UTC)

[ Tidal waves of wrath crash over and over against the barrier Zelda has erected in her mind. Before, she and the invading spirit had been locked in a fierce battle for control, neither willing to give an inch. But the moment Darin touched Zelda's hand, the force of a second foreign spiritual power overwhelmed her, allowing the Lady of Helice Palace to wrest full control-- which also became her downfall. With the lady's attention elsewhere, Zelda was able to use her sealing power capture the spirit and contain her within a barrier.

Zelda tries to ignore the lady's fury as Darin approaches her. She nods to him, taking his outstretched hand and clasping it between both of hers. ]

I'm all right... [ She replies through labored breaths, dropping her head forward so she can touch her forehead to his hand. The tangible connection gives Zelda a focal point to ground herself in reality. Darin will feel her forehead slick with sweat, as if she were dangerously ill-- her hands and arms as well are covered with a sheen of sweat. Even with the mental barrier, the sheer strength of the lady's emotions threatens to overwhelm Zelda again. Fear, joy, love, hate, confusion, anger, they batter her from all sides. ]

And you...? [ She lifts her head to look up at him. Although Darin's eyes have returned to normal, Zelda's have not. Gleaming golden eyes worriedly dart over his face.

His power... Zelda has seen it before-- or a shade of it, rather-- when they were aboard the Desert Wind months ago and Ganondorf had gained the upper hand. Everything was falling apart and Zelda was paralyzed from the horrible truth he had just imparted on her: that he had killed Sonia. And Darin... it was as though something inside him broke and he was suddenly consumed with rage more intense than Zelda had ever seen in him.

She didn't know what to think of it back then-- she was too concerned with escaping the ship before Darin and Ranma killed themselves trying to defeat Ganondorf. After that, she was so busy caring for Darin in the days that followed that she wrote it off as just his anger in the heat of the moment.

It seems there might be more to it than that.

But that is, once again, a matter for a later date. There are more immediate concerns to deal with. ]

All right, I need us all to keep calm from now on. All this fighting for control is getting us nowhere.

Hector-- [ Zelda's attention returns to Darin. Even though the lady only spoke part of her betrothed's name, her memories and emotions have given Zelda the rest. ] --I have not done anything to harm Lady Elise. Her spirit is safe within me; I am only barring her from taking control of my body.

[ Zelda touches the ring of light still encircling her neck, the seal which bars the ghost from the rest of Zelda's body. ]

Lady Elise, when you wish to speak, signal me and I shall accommodate you. Give me your trust and I will give you mine in return, as well as the use of my body as you need.

[ The lady's spirit hums reluctantly in Zelda's mind-- she agrees, even though she's not pleased with being boxed in like this. ]

Hector, you are reunited with your betrothed. You need not occupy Darin's body any longer.

I'm fine. Of course I'm fine.

[He reaches out to brace her with his other hand. And though he says he's fine, his arms are full of cuts and puncture wounds— streaked with rivulets of blood that only lend to his fallen knight attire. He lowers his frame so he can look Zelda more clearly in the eyes to make sure she's not in any danger...even though he has no idea what he'd be even looking for.]

[Which makes him realize he knows very little about the nature of Zelda's power aside from the fact it's derived from her Goddess and that it allowed her to seal Calamity Ganon. Maybe when things settle down, he can ask her exactly what she can do. After all, if he's looking to train his powers...maybe she can help him. He's already learning that she's not a frail flower of a woman.]

[Maybe they could help temper each other in the same way they stabilize one another.]

[When he's satisfied that Zelda is alright and in control, he moves to her side and places an arm protectively around her shoulders. Bloody arms or not, he's not a fan of what just happened and...well, he's sure she'll forgive him.]

[Hector does not speak through Darin right away and, for a moment, one would be forgiven if they thought Hector had been banished from Darin's righteous anger.]

[But Darin knows differently. He feels Hector's anxiety.]

[What are you waiting for, man? Say something!]

[What...What do I say...? Where do I start?? What if she doesn't love me anymore...I've kept her waiting for so long...]

[You're here now. The most you can say is the truth.]

[There's another pause before Hector's 'voice' speaks out. He's not relinquishing Darin just yet. He needs the support.]

Elise...I...

I'm sorry that I...kept you waiting for so long. It took me so long to make it back here and when I did...

I...I-I feared you had forgotten me. You had every right to move on and find another. One who could do the things I couldn't do. Who could be the things I was unable to be.

I was a coward because I believed the woman I pledged my heart to was deserving of a life so much greater than I could ever hope to provide...and when I was lost at sea...

...My final thoughts were that I hoped you could find happiness. Even if it was without me.

[ Zelda longs to lean in against Darin as he puts his arm around her shoulders. Using her sealing power is taxing (and concerningly more so than usual tonight; that bears investigating) and she must remain focused and vigilant in order to maintain it.

(When this is all sorted out, she'll ask Darin to help her find somewhere she can rest for a little bit, like a comfortable sofa in a quiet parlor.)

The lady's spirit rumbles around in Zelda's mind, bitter and resentful, as the two of them listen to Hector speak. She says nothing to Zelda, even though her presence in Zelda's mind would allow her to. It feels like she's conflicted, going back and forth between wanting to talk to the man she waited all these centuries for and wanting to leave without a word. Perhaps she needs a bit of a push, like her betrothed did.

Zelda takes a deep breath and forces herself to step out from under Darin's arm and walk a few steps away from him. As much as Zelda feels calmed by his touch, Elise feels restrained and uncomfortable.

Zelda turns back to face Darin and gives him a single, silent nod. "Trust me," her golden eyes say. Then she closes them and dismisses the ring around her neck.

When she opens them again, they are neither gold nor green, but a vibrant red-brown color, like cherry wood. Elise raises one hand to Zelda's throat, feeling for the ring and finding it gone. She has been given control... and now, when she didn't want it. When she just wanted to go back to sleep among the thorns and pretend she never heard her beloved say that he had abandoned her.

When Zelda looks to Darin again, her expression is full of fury and heartbreak all at once. ]

I didn't. [ Elise's 'voice' is still dry and raspy.

She lets those words hang in the air for a moment before continuing. ]

You thought I would find happiness without you? [ She scoffs coldly. ] I thought you knew me better than that. When I learned that your ship was lost, I nearly walked into the sea myself. My years were lonely and miserable. I spent them cursing your name, because I never found another I could love like you. How could I? I gave you my whole heart when you left on that journey, and when your ship sank, my heart drowned with you.

[ Elise presses Zelda's hand against her chest. All around the gazebo, the red roses wilt away, their petals showering over Zelda and Darin like a sudden downpour. In their place, new buts sprout, unfurling their inky black petals in the moonlight. ]

Edited 2024-11-08 21:17 (UTC)

Then...Then I am a fool..! A fool who has ensured that you are imprisoned in this spot, a monument to our love and my failure...

I still love you, Elise...I want nothing more than to be with you...

[Darin's hand finds its way to his chest as he clutches at the tattered cloth of his uniform. As if the pathos of it all was causing his non-existent heart to physically break. Darin's eyes remain their emerald hue and both he and Hector search Zelda's visage for something...anything.]

I feared I could not give you the life you deserved, even as I sailed back to you. I knew you would wait but even so, I knew that my humble origins were nothing extraordinary. I was a poor man who enlisted in service to your father because I could do nothing more. And the day I first saw you...I wished to fight to my last breath for you in every respect. But I...I would not blame your resentment of me. In life I was brave. In death, a coward...

[Darin listens to this exchange thoughtfully. Clearly, Hector was a good man. A good man with a good heart. Why else would Elise fall for him? And while Darin has no experience being dead, he's known enough soldiers to understand that life and a prospect of a future gives a soldier the strength of ten. As a dead man, as a wandering spirit, that passion, that fire is lost.]

[Maybe Hector just needs a villain to reignite it.]

[He looks at Zelda and forces himself to take control.]

...I think that's all there is to it, then. Hector got cold feet. Guess his love was only as strong as his mortal heart.

Zelda, you've got the ability to send Elise on her way, right? Why don't you do them both the favor. Force Elise to pass on. No sense in her waiting anymore.

[He knows Zelda can't do that...but he assumes Elise and Hector don't. He hopes Zelda can infer what he's trying to do. And if she doesn't...]

What?!

[Maybe Hector's incredulous response helps.]

[ Now that she has conceded control to the lady's spirit, Zelda's awareness of everything going on outside her body is starting to grow hazy.

This sensation is so... nostalgic. It's a state of pseudo-consciousness extending beyond her physical form, the same as she felt inside the seal with Calamity Ganon. Everything is muffled and foggy, like she's watching the world from behind a thick wall of glass.

How strange. It almost feels like the last five years were all just a dream.

Perhaps they were. Perhaps she's been inside the seal all this time, dreaming of the day Link would rescue her and the life she would live after Calamity Ganon was defeated. This wouldn't be the first time her mind spun a lovely dream for her as she held the seal around Hatred incarnate.

Strange that she would dream of the sea, though. Zelda hasn't seen the sea since she was a little girl. But it's a nice dream, this dream of the sea. There was someone there she wants to see again... A man at sunset.

If she closes her eyes, can she see him again? ]

[ Despite being inside Zelda's mind, Elise is privy to none of her thoughts. All she knows is that the once-burning brightness of that woman's soul has cooled and shriveled into an ember. ]

I'm afraid she won't be able to. Her spirit seems to have faded. I cannot feel her anymore.

Edited 2024-11-08 22:46 (UTC)

[Now it's Darin's turn to look incredulous. He wrests control from Hector as his gaze snaps to Elise.]

The hell do you mean...??

[He crosses the short breadth of distance between them and seizes her by the shoulders.]

Hey! What the hell do you mean you can't feel her anymore?! Where is she?! What'd you do to her?!?!

[Panic and anger start to seep into his voice, like ice cold water seeping into the cracks of stone. Already he's doubting everything, laying the blame of the evening at his own feet. If he hadn't asked her to come with him, this never would have happened. If he were stronger, he could have forced Hector out and not followed him to this damn gazebo.]

[If he had control over his power, maybe he could help her.]

Elise?? What's going on? This isn't you!

SHUT IT, HECTOR! WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ZELDA?!

I swear to the gods if you've lost her I will rip the boundary between this world and the next with my bare hands.

Edited 2024-11-08 22:59 (UTC)

[ Elise tries to summon her roses again to trap Darin before he reaches her, but for whatever reason, they completely ignore her. As Darin grabs Zelda's shoulders, Elise looks up at him in anger. ]

Oh, now you know me, Hector? You are so confident that I wouldn't snuff out this girl's spirit, and yet so doubtful that I would continue to wait for you?

Had I wanted the love of a man with wealth and power, I would have chosen one! You know as well as I that my father paraded them before my like prized show dogs, praying one would catch my eye. Captains of industry, admirals of the navy, dukes and princes alike, all dressed to the nines showering me with every luxury their money and influence could buy.

[ Zelda's hands latch onto the tattered remains of Darin's jacket. Tears spring to the corners of Zelda's eyes as Elise glares up at him, her tone furious and pleading. ]

But I did not want them; I wanted you. I wanted you and I couldn't find a way to love anyone else. And when I finally died, I thought for certain that I would finally see you again. I searched for you here and when I didn't find you, I waited. I waited, Hector! And I'm still waiting, you thrice-damned coward!

Edited (i wasn't happy with my html x4 times) 2024-11-08 23:37 (UTC)

[For once, astoundingly, Darin's will is overpowered as Hector's mind jumps to the fore.]

I know that! I know that in my heart of hearts, Elise! But I ask you, if you knew I had an entire life ahead of me that you could not be apart of because of fate's cruel wiles, would you not wish that I be happy?!

[Darin snarls as those blue leyline like chains creep across his frame again.]

SHUT. UP.

SHUT UP!! BOTH OF YOU!! SHUT UP AND TELL ME WHERE ZELDA IS! I JUST GOT HER BACK AFTER A MONTH I WON'T LET YOU—

NO! YOU THINK YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT IT MEANS TO LOSE THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE BECAUSE OF POWERS OUT OF YOUR CONTROL?! DO NOT SPEAK TO EITHER OF US OF LOST LOVES WHEN YOU YET LIVE AND DO NOTHING WITH THE TIME YOU ARE AFFORDED!! WE TWO ARE COWARDS OF THE HIGHEST ORDER AND I, FOR ONE, WILL NOT WASTE ANOTHER SECOND!

[Darin's body is wracked by powerful spasms as two otherworldly forces clash for control of his body. Despite all of Darin's overwhelming power, his lack of training leaves him susceptible to Hector's passionate rage. The two wills slam into one another, unstoppable force meeting immovable object.]

ZELDA, PLEASE I KNOW YOU'RE IN THERE!! YOU NEED TO FIGHT IT! YOU'RE STRONGER THAN HER!

ELISE, PLEASE I BEG OF YOUR FORGIVENESS!! IF YOU PERMIT ME, I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOUR SIDE FOR ETERNITY!

[Darin's eyes flash, one an eerie gold, the other an otherworldly, phantasmal violet as both men's will seem to sync up. The impetus was different for each man, but the result— the a passionate flame sparking like a towering inferno as both men come to grips with their own resolve.]

I NEED YOU!

[And with their wills united...they both think to do the only thing that can save their loves. The one thing that might bring them back, that might free them from whatever is shackling them.]

Edited 2024-11-09 00:02 (UTC)

[They draw their loves close.]

[And they kiss them.]

Edited 2024-11-09 00:02 (UTC)

[ Something electric snaps through Zelda's slumbering consciousness, stirring her to wakefulness. What... what was that? It felt... almost like a lightning bolt, sharp and sudden in her mind.

It recedes as quickly as it came on, but in its place, a feeling of warmth begins to rise. It builds slowly, but steadily, as though she was lowering her body into a steaming hot bath. Comforting, relaxing...

...Pleasing, indulgent. Spreading from her chest throughout the rest of her body, igniting into sensations she hasn't felt in centuries...

Ah. Those aren't Zelda's thoughts. That's right, there's someone else sealed away with her, a being of pure malice and hatred--

--no, that's not right. It's a spirit, a noble lady, not Calamity Ganon. And this is not the seal. This is the princess's own mind, and controlling her body is the Lady of Helice Palace, Elise. It's her feelings rushing through Zelda's mind like the tide pulled by the moon. Warm feelings. Pleasant feelings. Sensual feelings.

Zelda swims up through the tide to find her way to consciousness. She expects to feel Elise resist as Zelda tries to take control... but instead, the lady's spirit harmonizes with the princess's, allowing them both to share consciousness for a moment.

Zelda's eyelashes flutter against Darin's cheek as she reconnects with her senses. The first thing she becomes aware of is a firm pressure against her lips and the tingling feeling it sends shooting through her body. It feels... good. She lifts her chin and pursues it further. A kiss. She's kissing someone...

...And gods how she has longed for this. Gods, how she has missed this...

Zelda makes a soft sound against Darin's mouth, heady and inviting. It's unclear who is actually in control. Zelda's awareness is clouded somewhat by the intensity of Elise's emotions, but they resonate with ones the princess has been shoving down in her heart. This kiss... she wants this kiss. She's wanted it for months... centuries...

At last... ]

GETTING STARTED

ELTRUT: FESTIVAL

NAUGHTILUST: MASQUERADE

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