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calderaevents ([personal profile] calderaevents) wrote in [community profile] calderamemes2024-11-29 12:00 am
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TDM #4



ARRIVAL

It happens in an instant. A heavy weight in your gut, a trembling of your limbs, the world spins and you barely have time to register that you're falling before you lose consciousness. And when you awaken, it's not where you were last. Dark, unadorned oak walls surround you in a tiny room, the only furniture the bed you are currently resting upon, and the bedside table with a folded piece of parchment resting atop it that simply reads:

“The Tavernkeeper is awaiting your arrival downstairs.”

As you exit you find others like yourself emerging from the surrounding rooms. You are indeed in a tavern, but there is no hustle and bustle one might think to hear in such a place. The only person down on the main floor is a humanoid figure wiping down the bar, who smiles when they see you. They're familiar, but not, and you can't quite place their face. For some reason, however, their presence is comforting and warm.

“Welcome, Visitor. I'm sure you have a lot of questions.

And you most certainly do.

Due to popular demand, the starter tavern and the drinks provided are available to in game characters via a portal accessible only to those with a faction gem.

DRINK MENU
WINTER'S WHISPER A fragrant spiced tea that calms the nerves and inspires the drinker to share their hopes and dreams.

JINGLE BELL A crisp, bright drink...that makes jingling bell sounds as you walk. There are no bells, and yet you jingle.

S(LAY) RIDE This drink has an earthy, woody taste. Almost as woody as the tavern floor it forces you to lie down upon. You cannot get up unless someone else helps you.

MISTLETOE MEAD Made with honey from enchanted bee hives and a touch of mistletoe leaves. Time to find a smoochin' partner!

HOLLY JOLLY SPICE A bold and fiery blend of rum, cinnamon, and cloves with a secret twist—just a dash of enchanted holly berry syrup that makes your cheeks flush with warmth and your laughter contagious. One sip, and you're the life of the party, even if you're by yourself.

CANDY CANE CRUSH A festive burst of minty sweetness with a cool, refreshing sensation that tingles the tongue. The drinker’s mood subtly shifts the color of their surroundings, briefly changing the hues of objects or lights in the room to match their feelings.

GINGERBREAD MAN A thick drink that tastes exactly like a gingerbread cookie. However, candy and other delicious accents start appearing on you as if YOU were the cookie. Is that icing on your nose? Candied cherries in your hair? Gumdrop buttons? But on the bright side, free candy!

CHOOSE YOUR DESTINY

As the effects of your drink wear off, the Tavernkeeper speaks once more:

”It is time, my friends, for you to find your new homes.”


You are compelled to walk through the only door leading out of the tavern, finding yourself not outside, but in a deep black, seemingly endless room with five portals arranged in a circle. As the last of you leave and the door closes behind you, gone when you look back again and replaced with nothing but that black void, three of the portals illuminate:

The first portal is surrounded by an almost blinding light, prismatic rainbows shining brightly in the dewy air outside of the tavern. A soft breeze may gently caress you, pulling you toward it. The portal seems to lead to a city in the clouds, airships and winged beings of all sorts soaring through the skies. Of the little bits of visible land, much of it boasts giant waterfalls that look like clouds melting into the land below. The portal calls to those who crave independence and freedom; and especially to anyone that wishes to find the strong bond of a family not forged in blood.

The second portal is encircled by a fairy ring of spotted white capped mushrooms, the faint scent of damp stone and rich earth wafting from within the faint green glow. Peering inside, one can see a sprawling harbor city of gray hewn stone, a melting pot of humanoid beings going about their day, and beyond, rolling green farmland and cottages clustered in small villages. This portal is destined for those who crave stability and solid ground beneath their feet. A simple life, an adventurous one, and everything in between can be found within.

The last portal is adorned with shells and seaweed, the glow of blue around it catching on droplets cascading down the circular opening. Beyond it you see a city housed inside a massive bubble deep under the ocean, spiraling towers encrusted with coral, and a variety of different creatures mingling about the streets. Outside of that bubble, merfolk swim, a massive squid engulfs the view from the portal as it smoothly glides through the water, and schools of fish disperse as it passes. A sanctuary in the sea that calls to those with a hunger for knowledge and a desire to aid those in need. Or perhaps it is the mystery that beckons you - the lure of the unknown in the depths that bids you explore it.
Upon following the pull of the breeze through the first portal, you are thrust into the beauty of a lively city that goes by the name of Heaven's Bow. Much of this main city feels exactly as you would expect on a city below, but there are clouds surrounding every direction you look. The walls of buildings are made with light-colored limestone, and buildings are generally built up to heights made even more grandiose by their position in the sky.

The Skyfall Docks are the first thing you notice, boasting hundreds of airships sailing in and out across the clouds with shouts that accompany a typical port city. Just outside is a fantastic market with goods not only from the other regions of Caldera, but from what some shopkeepers claim are other worlds--items sold or left behind by Visitors. Almost anything can be found in the markets if one is willing to look hard enough. Transport to other locations throughout the sky and even to the land or sea can be found here.

If the docks are too lively for you, you may instead find yourself roaming the underbelly of Heaven's Bow and finding brothels and gambling parlors filled with the promise of pleasure and fortune. The guild house for the Sylphs can be found here as well, giving out quests and training to prospective adventurers and guards alike--though none of them seem concerned with the illicit activities that surround them. Perhaps the freedom the Sylphs boast of extends to what others may deem an undesirable activity.

But most curious of all, you find a shimmering opal gemstone in your hand. When placed anywhere on the body, it will transform into a piece of jewelry with the gemstone set in the center.


If it was the second portal that called to you, you will find yourself in the busy city of Grey Ward, with its cobblestone streets and sturdy grey stone buildings. You are in the heart of the city, the Glass Market, so named for the colorful stained glass windows of the surrounding buildings. The scent of cooking food and the sound of barkers fills the air; watchful guards keep an eye out for pickpockets and thieves, and citizens go about their day. From here, one can investigate the rest of the city: the Sundown Docks, where both sea and sky faring skips transport people and goods. The Soot Spire, home of inventors and engineers. The Hearthstill, the main residential area. The Downs, a smaller residential area for those with less means.

Outside the city walls, one can explore acres of farmlands to the east and west, or follow Terra’s Pass to the less settled areas, but take care. Past the Skyward Range, out in the smaller burrows and villages, the influence of the city guard diminishes quickly, and you’ll have to keep your wits about you. Bandits along the road are always a risk, and the wildlife are less controlled by regimented hunting.

In your hand is a gemstone, a brilliantly green emerald that, when placed anywhere on the body, will transform into a piece of jewelry with the gemstone set in the center.



If the last portal beckoned you through it, you find yourself within that bubble covered city beneath the sea, the city of Salt Spire. Your ears pop with the change in pressure, and the smell of the salty sea fills your nostrils. All around you buildings made of dark stone encrusted with coral and seagrass tower high above your head, the backdrop outside the dome a deep blue, seemingly endless sea filled with fish and merfolk and all other manner of creature swimming through the water. You stand in the heart of it all, surrounded by people with gils on their necks and scales upon their vibrantly colored skin, all of whom seem intrigued by your arrival. You have many options of where to visit in the city under the sea, but where oh where will you go first?

The Salt Spire Library is right before you, an impossibly large building housing thousands upon thousands of books of all genres. Fiction, non-fiction, romance and mystery and all between. You may even find books from your world and others! Oddly enough though, no Calderan history books are to be found, and if you ask for them, the librarians and locals all choose to ignore your questions.

If scholarly pursuits aren't to your interest currently, perhaps a trip to Bluetide Market would be more your style? The marketplace is host to every manner of shop one might ever need: artisans of all varieties, apothecaries and healers in the Shimmer Quarter, the most in fashion undersea clothing shops, food stalls, and all between can be found in Bluetide. There are also the Tideshore and Fogbottom docks on either end of the city. The former allows transport to the surface via large, magical bubbles for those that cannot hold their breath or make the swim themselves yet. The latter allows people to venture further into the sea. Those without their underwater abilities are offered rebreathers for travel that last for four hours before needing to be replaced.

In your hand is a gemstone, a shining sapphire that, when placed anywhere on the body, will transform into a piece of jewelry with the gemstone set in the center.



Visitors in all starter cities are offered a standard home with basic necessities provided (your choice in design, etc.) that can house 1-4 people if they so choose. Home upgrades can be purchased via rewards.

FANNING THE FLAMES
The renewed seething of the lava flows brought on by the tempestuous events deep below the sea seem to have been dealt with, though city guards have been stationed around the crater and are barring anyone from approaching to investigate any further than the outskirts. Interestingly, not only does the crater seem calm, it appears to be changing. Any remaining lava flow is being directed as if by unseen hands, and when the light catches just right, the barest hint of a shimmer can be detected surrounding the glowing rivers. New rock formations take shape as the days pass, though one never can catch the presence of a mason working on the structures. It's as if something intangible or invisible is repairing what was broken, turning what was previously chaos and ruin into order and life.
SEASON OF LIGHT
The world remains unsettled, still bearing the scars of the trials endured just a month prior, not to mention the oddities happening with the volcanic crater and the ominous shadows creeping in from the sea continue to haunt the collective psyche, leaving both locals and visitors on constant edge, fearful of a sudden, unprovoked assault. Despite these lingering anxieties, the leaders have publicly reassured all that calm has been restored. They claim that the worst is behind them and that every measure is being taken to prevent such devastating magics from ever threatening Salt Spire again. The protective bubble holds, new Undine are being ushered into their roles, and the world, it is said, is slowly healing. Or so they claim.

Whether or not the assurances of the leaders ring entirely true, life, as it often does, presses on. The people of Caldera have once again immersed themselves in the comforting bustle of distraction, turning their attention to the imminent Season of Lights celebrations. This holiday, it seems, bears a striking resemblance to the festive cheer of Christmas (and a mix of new years), with gifts exchanged in abundance and decorations of shimmering silver and radiant blue casting their glow across the sky, sea, and land in harmonious splendor.

One of the seasons's highlights is the grand Feast of the Sky, a night when the people gather beneath a star-filled canopy to exchange gifts—ornate trinkets, hand-crafted items, and tokens of affection that carry deep personal meaning. In the days leading up to the feast, a tradition of "Lightwalking" emerges, where families and friends embark on midnight strolls through streets aglow with lanterns, singing carols and sharing stories of hope and renewal. Sea-going vessels, too, partake in the festivities, their sails and riggings festooned with glowing orbs that drift like stars across the waters.

The Season of Lights is, above all, a celebration of resilience, a time when the people of Caldera set aside their worries, if only for a little while, to bask in the glow of community, generosity, and the promise of brighter days ahead thanks to the Visitor's arrival...
THE GRAND MASQUERADE
Another highlight of the season is the Grand Masquerade that unfolds high above the world in Heaven’s Bow, the floating city where the wind dances in the sky and the stars seem close enough to touch. The event is more than just a celebration of the Season of Lights—it’s a gathering of hope, a last-ditch effort to save Caldera from its slow unraveling. Here, among the clouds and the wind, the people of Caldera and the mysterious Visitors from other worlds come together in a shimmering, ethereal celebration, their faces hidden behind elaborate masks and appropriately fancy dress provided when one steps through the threshold of the castle gates.

The palace at the heart of Heaven’s Bow is a breathtaking sight, its walls adorned with silver and blue decorations that catch the light from thousands of lanterns floating in mid-air. The atmosphere is both jubilant and tense, a world on the brink of collapse holding its breath in the hopes that this fleeting night will offer a glimmer of salvation. The sky above is painted with the colors of dusk and dawn, swirling in a palette of purples, blues, and silvers.

Sylphs—the free-spirited, airborn people of the Sky—flutter about, their wings glinting in the light, performing acrobatic feats in the air, their laughter and music mingling with the sounds of the celebration. Guests, their masks intricate and stunning, move among the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and stories, some joining in the dances while others linger near the grand tables, laden with food and drink from every corner of Caldera and beyond.

As the night unfolds, the guests find themselves drawn into different corners of the event—each space offering the Visitors a chance to prove themselves worthy of the leaders’ favor. There is no shortage of opportunities to learn, grow, and, perhaps, change the course of this dying world.
THE SKY'S ASCENSION



At one end of the palace's terrace, a floating platform hovers above the clouds, surrounded by shifting air currents. Sylphs glide effortlessly through the space, their wings leaving trails of light as they move to the lively music, which seems written by the wind itself.

Aella, Admiral of the Slyph, stands at the center of the platform, her cloak of shimmering feathers rippling in the breeze. She surveys the crowd, inviting those brave enough to take part in her challenge. Before them, a maze of floating platforms stretches out, some wide and stable, others narrow and swaying in the wind. The task is simple: leap from one platform to the next, navigating the shifting air and ever-changing obstacles.

The platforms move unpredictably, some rising higher, others sinking, and a few disappearing entirely. Guests must time their jumps perfectly, balancing agility with timing as they avoid falling into the clouds below.

Those who succeed will earn Aella’s favor (in the form of 100 Bones and a single white feather). And those who falter will simply reappear the start of the challenge to begin anew or give up with no repercussions for the latter save perhaps a bit of embarrassment.
THE SEA'S SECRETS
On the other side of the terrace, a serene water garden unfolds, its shimmering pools reflecting the stars above. Water flows in delicate, endless cascades, filling the air with a soft, soothing melody that mingles with the distant sound of waves. The Undines, graceful and serene beings of the Sea, glide effortlessly through the space, their robes flowing like gentle currents, their movements as fluid as the water itself.

Cordelia, Queen of the Sea, stands quietly on a raised platform at the edge of the garden, her presence calm and powerful. Her eyes, deep and unfathomable, seem to reflect the vastness of the ocean, and though she watches the guests, she does not engage with them. Her stillness holds an air of mystery, as if she is both present and yet unreachable.

The Undines move silently through the garden, offering peaceful company to those who wander nearby. The garden is a place of contemplation, where guests can simply pause and connect with the tranquil beauty of the water—its soothing flow, its quiet depths, and its promise of renewal. There are no tests or challenges here, only the peace of the Sea to calm the mind and soul.

Those who linger may feel the weight of ancient knowledge in the air, a silent understanding of the oceans' mysteries and the healing power of water. In this place, the answers are not spoken, but felt—a quiet reminder that some of the world’s deepest truths are best discovered in moments of stillness.

As the evening fades, those who have found solace in the garden’s stillness will discover, tucked gently in their palm, a lustrous pearl. Unlike any found on the shores, this pearl is soft and warm, its surface shimmering with an inner light. It is a symbol of the wisdom that comes from quiet reflection—the knowledge that some things, like the depth of the sea, cannot be rushed.
THE LAND'S EMBRACE



In the heart of the palace gardens, beneath a canopy of flowering trees, the Dryads drift gracefully among the guests, their earthy skin glowing with life and their eyes bright with the vitality of nature. The air is thick with the scent of blooming roses and jasmine, while the ground beneath the guests' feet pulses with a quiet energy, inviting them to pause and feel the garden’s magic.

Terra, the Lady of the Land, stands at the center, her form adorned in living vines and blossoms, moving as if the garden itself flows through her. Her presence is both nurturing and fierce, a silent invitation to those seeking connection—to the land, to love, and to one another.

Guests are drawn to the tranquil beauty of the garden, stealing soft moments with their partners among the flowers. Lovers exchange quiet glances, touch petals with gentle fingers, and share unspoken promises beneath the soft glow of lanterns. The garden hums with romance, as if the earth itself is blessing these tender moments, offering the quiet assurance that love—like the land—can grow in the most unexpected places.

As the night draws to a close, Terra’s gentle power is felt in the air, and for those who have taken the time to connect with the garden’s beauty, a soft gift of nature is bestowed. A flower—unique and radiant—appears in their hand, a token of love and growth, a reminder that even the briefest moments can take root and blossom into something everlasting.
QUESTBOARD [NEW QUESTS ADDED]

Settled in? Good. It's time to make your way to the Questboard located in every city in numerous, easy to access locations. That is, if you want to make any kind of impact on the world or just get some Bones for anything you might wish to purchase. Visitors are given a very small stipend in which to survive every month, but all it does is keep you fed and housed. These quests will assure you greater wealth, and they're the main reason you're here: each finished quest helps the Calderans fix their shattering world.

Quests can be accepted at the questboard via magically signed parchment upon the board. Just sign your name to accept and the paper will be whisked away... somewhere. You're not actually sure. Probably nothing to concern yourself with.

Once quests are completed, earned Bones will be dropped off at the character's residence by Bonita, the mysterious artisan who has supposedly handcrafted every Bone circulating in Caldera. Please do not speak to her, she startles easily.
OOC NOTES
Welcome to Caldera's fourth TDM! All characters awaken in a strange tavern with nothing save the clothes on their backs, all of their powers stripped, and a piece of parchment directing them downstairs to the Tavernkeeper. There is a thread of all questions answered by the Tavernkeeper here, and if you have more, feel free to ask there for what would be offered ICly.

For OOC questions, please direct themhere.

All locations are available to be explored!

The TDM is game canon and all completed quests can be carried over once accepted into the game.

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makingmyway: (pic#16015767)

[personal profile] makingmyway 2024-12-01 04:08 am (UTC)(link)
He laughs again, shrugging a shoulder as he takes a glass from himself from a passing server. "I'm flattered. As much as I love our group, we can be a lot all at once. It probably would be best to meet us slowly. I'll be sure to keep a lookout for him."

He takes a sip of champagne, though the following question gets a nervous chuckle out of him.

"It's been... interesting. And I did have a drink there when I first woke up. I don't remember what the name was, but it certainly lifted my mood quite a bit."
inspiteof: (pic#17546894)

[personal profile] inspiteof 2024-12-01 04:10 am (UTC)(link)
His bet was on both. Spite was disturbed by the whole ordeal and decided to try and solve the problem before Lucanis regained control. That the demon hadn't fought him in the slightest spoke volumes to their continued agreement. Didn't stop him from complaining though.

Lucanis looked... surprised, to say the least. "I was hoping to find a common thread, but now I'm even more confused." He admitted. "I'm not even certain where to begin without sounding like I am out of my mind."
desmume: (that's a timesave?)

[personal profile] desmume 2024-12-01 04:11 am (UTC)(link)
It would be~ When I was a kid, I always wanted to play with one of those red-hot bubbles~

...They looked tasty, you know~? But I only ever saw them on TV~ It'd be nice to see the real thing up close~
going2buildabear: (pic#16733188)

Arrival

[personal profile] going2buildabear 2024-12-01 04:19 am (UTC)(link)
Karlach, like Bellara, is interested in those drinks. Maybe not for the same reason, but it does mean the large tiefling woman is approaching the bar about the same time as the elven woman was looking for a victi- assistant.

She's keeping a careful enough distance to not accidentally bump into anyone, but is close enough that the strange, cheerful ramble of a request is obviously being directed at her. Blinking, she peers between the bar, and the frankly adorable slip of an elf, before deciding quickly enough that it sounds fine to her, nodding with a sunny smile.

"Don't see the harm, why not," She agreed readily enough, plunking onto one of the bar stools near the other woman entire demeanor cheery and open, entirely at odds with her rather aggressive sort of look. "Can't go wrong with some fun, yeah?"
fundamentalchaos: (37)

[personal profile] fundamentalchaos 2024-12-01 04:20 am (UTC)(link)
"I mean he met me first so...that definitely would lessen the blow of meeting juuuust about any of us?" Ashton squints a bit before shrugging lips pulling down as if to say 'meh' before taking a drink.

"Oh? Gotta be careful, some of those things are weird." The grin that pulls at his lips tells Dorian there is definitely a story there. "'s how I first met Barcus was over some of those weird drinks."
stolentrinkets: (pic#17528448)

vex'ahlia | critical role | sylph

[personal profile] stolentrinkets 2024-12-01 04:33 am (UTC)(link)
[ season of light ]

If her time keeping was right, this would be around the same time as Winter's Crest back home. Living in the feywild for years around those from other worlds had her know of other holiday celebrations, so when the decor started coming out, and the locals started talking about the season, she was immediately interested. Winter's Crest reminded her of happier times, of friends, and of home.

For gifts, most were given bags of sugar cookies she baked herself. All visitors who had been pulled here receive them.

For those close to her, special gifts were either purchased or handmade by her (which was a feat, because while she was good at baking, she was horrible at making other things aside from arrows).

Lightwalking has her out most nights, and while she might not be out with her friends all the time, she's out listening and watching everyone else.

[ grand masquerade ]

Fit check: Dress, Mask

Vex'ahlia is never one to turn down a fancy party.

Adorned in gold, Vex walks about the grand ballroom, sampling food from each of the tables and drinks from the far corners of Caldera. Her reason for walking walking, while looking at all of the attractions, was listening. She knew a lot of people had loose lips while drinking, and Vex wanted to find out more from the locals as they partied. There was a saying back home: no secret was safe while Vex was around. There was a reason why she took so easily to the roguish training her brother gave her. While sipping on her drink, she was busy reading lips and putting that expensive elven training her father gave to her to good use.

She won't mind, however, should someone as her to dance.

[ the sky's ascension, or this is what happens when you roll a 37 on your acrobatics check ]

Vex had been watching for a while now, trying to see if there were any patterns with the platforms. As far as she could tell there wasn't any, which would be on par for this place. Nothing could ever be too easy.

While her main attention had been on the course itself, she had been faintly paying attention to those trying to get across. While most her having quite the trouble getting across, there were a few who had made it. As another went forward to try, Vex put her arm to stop them. Stepping forward, Vex tied up the gold dress that she had on for the night, taking off the elaborate shoes she had on. She stretched her shoulders amidst locals in the background saying she wasn't going to make it.

As the first platform came forward, Vex grinned and jumped.

The first few platforms were simple enough - she ran and jumped with ease, bare feet catching the earth and jumping without care. Another platform dropped suddenly, and Vex had to tuck and roll as she landed, immediately up and sprinting for the next platform. She imagined being on her broom, flying through the air and dodging bolts of magic just like years before during many of the battles she had been in.

She landed back on the last platform, nary a hair out of place. Reaching down, she scooped up her heels, putting them back on. "What, like it's hard?"

[ questing ]

i. good vibes only - closed to percy. CW: NSFW

After seeing the quest on the board, Vex immediately ran to Tara's Tastefuls to see what exactly the owner was talking about. She had her walk through every step of the new product, asking various questions about it. When she was done, Vex took the new sample very eagerly, running back home and knocking on Percy's door.

"Percy, darling! It's Vex. Open up. You and I should have a talk!"

ii. any open quest

Vex is down for questing! If you want to go on with one with her, let her know. We can set something up in the comments below. Open to any SFW or NSFW quest.

[ wildcard ]

Down for anythign else with her? contact me on discord or plurk.
internationalrelations: (078)

[personal profile] internationalrelations 2024-12-01 04:36 am (UTC)(link)
Alex had not told anyone that Henry was a prince. He was trying to let that be the other man's secret to tell, if he chose. After all, hadn't Henry told him when they first arrived that he was looking forward to not being a prince here, to maybe having some taste of normalcy? ...that did not mean Alex wouldn't accidentally let it slip if his mouth got away from him, but it did mean that he was trying.

"Then? How about that..." He knew he had sex appeal.

Right now though, there was no royal family, no reelection campaign. There was nothing but the two of them, together and wrapped up in one another. He smiled at those words, soft and spoken like a secret, as much as his own admission had been.

But before he did, he reached up to push the mask up and off his face. Then he oh so carefully, slowly did the same for Henry's easing it up to reveal the prince's face. It was his turn to touch his fingertips along the fine angle of Henry's cheekbone, soft and reverent before dropping down to cup at his chin, tilting it up just sightly (because Henry was not six-foot-two).

"There you are." Not that kissing a sexy owl was unappealing, but for their first kiss, well, he wanted to see Henry. A smile before he finally -- god fucking finally -- pressed his lips to his prince's.
lordfuckleroy: made by Nia @ <user name=hiraethe> (Default)

[personal profile] lordfuckleroy 2024-12-01 04:46 am (UTC)(link)
The matter of their heights was going to be a topic that they would revist for time immemorial, though honestly he was not noticing that Alex was tilting his chin upward, all he could see was Alex's dancing eyes and the way they caught and held-- he wanted to kiss the other man and allow it to linger, to savor.

And then their lips met and there were sparks, such beautiful fireworks with the press of mouths. It was second nature to cling to those lips while they were now stranded in the middle of the dance floor, a whirl of movement around them and yet they were only swirling in the momentum that wrapped them up.

He would chase those lips, chase them if they tried to escape, a strange sort of desperation seizing him that he may attempt to downplay at a later date. And his mouth parting under Alex's as his arms wrapped around waist.
spellblade: (stop the sound)

[personal profile] spellblade 2024-12-01 04:47 am (UTC)(link)
In that, at least, they were both up the same metaphysical creek without their fade conjured paddle. But there was a way. There had to be a way. There was always a way. In that, Rook was unshakeable. "Well, when you've got the best team ever assembled, confidence comes easily," she replied with ease. One of the many lessons she hoped she'd learned from Varric; you get the best out of people when you empower them, believe in them.

"From what I understand, there was a previous expedition to this island, and the captain didn't want to come back." Which...wasn't the best sign, but. "And whatever they found, they need more information. I hate to say it, but, if that's where it's coming from, that's probably where we should go."
spellblade: (let it once be me)

[personal profile] spellblade 2024-12-01 04:54 am (UTC)(link)
"Sorry! Sorry. You told me to hit you!" Wincing, Rook darted back a few steps, loosening her curled fists to hold her hands up in apology. She huffed a soft, sheepish laugh, because he most definitely had her there. "Honestly? I wasn't about to fight someone for it...though, as it happens, I do have a knife on me, so I'm not completely helpless." Where was said knife hidden? Good question. Want to look for it, Lucanis?
internationalrelations: (007)

[personal profile] internationalrelations 2024-12-01 04:58 am (UTC)(link)
Oh? In passing?

[Alex prompted, looking entirely too smug for his own good. For anyone's good really.]

I might've noticed a thing or two about you, too. You know, in passing.
inspiteof: (pic#17546927)

[personal profile] inspiteof 2024-12-01 05:34 am (UTC)(link)
Lucanis couldn't keep from chuckling now. His own hands shifted forward, gently pressing against his shoulder where she had hit him earlier. "It's all right. We do want to make this realistic, don't we? I can handle a few bruises."

He glanced down the length of her frame, then back up (maybe a little slower than necessary. Maker she was gorgeous—).

"Hidden in your boot, perhaps? Not ideal if you happened to be, say, surprised from behind by a man with a blade to your throat?"
eightbeers: (Default)

[personal profile] eightbeers 2024-12-01 05:34 am (UTC)(link)
Sensing the unfinished question, Kimiko smiled sheepishly and angled her head back slightly to tap her throat. She shook her head, indicating her voice didn't work. She then tapped her ear and nodded; she could hear just fine. Following her indication, she leaned in to examine the board and read the drink name, huffing a soft laugh. Jingle Bell, well, that made sense! She pointed to one of the other drinks, the Gingerbread Man, and then tapped another message quickly on her phone. Tried that one? Should I?

daddywarden: (listening)

[personal profile] daddywarden 2024-12-01 05:36 am (UTC)(link)
"Bellara!" Davrin's smile appeared under the mask as he realized who it was standing before her, recognizing the familiar frame and her voice as she expressed her own surprise at seeing him.

"I am," he answered with a nod. "I got here just a couple of days ago. I still haven't figured out what's going on but I've seen you, Rook, and Lucanis so far."
internationalrelations: (078)

[personal profile] internationalrelations 2024-12-01 05:36 am (UTC)(link)
Oh they'd revisit it time and time again, without a doubt. Henry should resign himself to a life of Alex's commentary on his height and other common squabbling issues. It was who they were. They were too wise to woo peaceably, to paraphrase some old British bard.

Right now though there was no quipping, no banter, there was the warmth of Henry's lips against his own, soft and full and sweet, and Alex wanted to disappear into the taste of him. The dancefloor moved on, but in their small sphere with just the two of them, they were still and caught up in each other.

He had no plans of trying to escape this kiss just yet, nowhere near satisfied when the feeling of Henry's arms around him only spurred a hunger he hadn't realized he possessed, ravenous and unquenchable. Those parted lips were impossible to resist, though Alex made no attempt to anyway, instead taking the invitation to deepen the kiss, tongue dipping past Henry's lips, plundering his mouth like this might be the only chance he had.

His hands came to frame the prince's face, one sliding back to bury in soft blond hair, holding him close, holding him for dear life.
daddywarden: (waiting)

[personal profile] daddywarden 2024-12-01 05:41 am (UTC)(link)
Davrin knew that Rook tried her best to remain strong for the team. It was a trait that he both admired and worried over, especially after seeing what she had gone through at the hands of the gods, even Solas himself. Sometimes he wished that she could let herself be weak, even for a moment but he knew he wasn't the one to offer her that chance. Perhaps as a friend but nothing more.

"I would say you're right but this doesn't feel like the Fade and...it doesn't feel like it does back home," he murmured, his voice softening as a briefly troubled look crossed his features. He couldn't hear the Blight or any of the other Grey Warden stuff in his head and, while it was kind of nice, it was also a bit disorientating.

Pausing as she touched his shoulder, he nodded slowly. "I hope so."
hiddenfates: (Default)

Masquerade

[personal profile] hiddenfates 2024-12-01 05:47 am (UTC)(link)
There's a swell, a shift, as the music changes, announcing a new dance, and a voice comes from behind Vex's left shoulder. "May I have the pleasure?"

Standing in his own outfit is a tiefling. A heavily ornamented tiefling dressed flashily even for here, lavender and red and white in a riotous whirlwind of color and silk. His smile doesn't fade whether she turns or not; he's too busy studying her. "And my compliments to your dressmaker."
daddywarden: (amused)

[personal profile] daddywarden 2024-12-01 05:49 am (UTC)(link)
"I don't know how you'll manage that if they don't have coffee here."

He had chuckled about it but he wouldn't actually want to see Lucanis without his beloved coffee. He was sure no one would be prepared for that level of moping and crankiness. At least they could find something to drink to tide them over until then and he nodded as they found themselves a table. "Let's get pouring then."
inspiteof: (pic#17502403)

[personal profile] inspiteof 2024-12-01 05:53 am (UTC)(link)
For a brief moment, Lucanis seemed genuinely horrified. "You — surely they must." They had to. They had to, Davrin! He'll die!

They have whisky, at least, for whatever it was worth. Lucanis slid the filled glass toward Davrin, held his own up. "I'd toast — but I could not say to what there is to celebrate here."
Edited 2024-12-01 05:53 (UTC)
daddywarden: (interested)

[personal profile] daddywarden 2024-12-01 06:05 am (UTC)(link)
"It's better than wandering around aimlessly in next to nothing," he matched her tone with a hint more dryness. At least he was right in remembering where he had spotted the tavern. Loosely.

Davrin thought of the Ogres he was familiar with but the ones she mentioned did sound impressive and he wasn't going to deny her story. How could he know if it was true or not? But if it was, yeah, he was impressed. "Sounds like it was quite the fight. How did you end up fighting an Ogre?"

He paused as he looked around before nodding a table near the window to see if it suited her.
likeiron: a reptilian (i can't prove that someone isn't)

[personal profile] likeiron 2024-12-01 06:13 am (UTC)(link)
Nina rolled her eyes.

"Here's where you say your name too, first of all." Rude. Nina took a seat at the table he gestured to. "And I ended up fighting it because the army of orcs we were fighting decided they needed something big to take our people out. Me and this Sylvan elf guy were the only two able to get up there to hit its only real weak spot."

She flagged down a barmaid as she continued. "Earned me a title and a reputation. Although I was already fighting monsters and shit long before that happened."
eightbeers: (23)

[personal profile] eightbeers 2024-12-01 06:25 am (UTC)(link)
Kimiko made a face, but shrugged in understanding because that sounded pretty reasonable to her. Blood was hard to clean in the best of circumstances. Satisfied with her poking and prodding, she climbed down from the chair and fished her phone out of the bodice of her dress where she'd tucked it for safekeeping, quickly tapping out a message on the notes app to show him on the glowing screen.

You must not like dancing or people
makingmyway: (Uncertain)

[personal profile] makingmyway 2024-12-01 06:45 am (UTC)(link)
Um... well... just be careful if you start this time. I don't think that would turn out well.
makingmyway: (pic#16015763)

[personal profile] makingmyway 2024-12-01 06:49 am (UTC)(link)
Dorian shrugs a little. "I don't know, I don't think you're the worst first person they could have met."

He remembers the couple of conversations he's had with Ashton since he'd come back, and he still thinks they don't think enough of themself at times.

"Yes, I've noticed. Someone I met in the tavern had a drink that made him ringing with bells whenever he moved." He takes another sip from his glass. "What kind of effects did your drinks give you?"
odare: (002)

[personal profile] odare 2024-12-01 07:16 am (UTC)(link)
Finnick squeezes her back just as tightly, his eyes scrunching closed as he wills himself not to cry. It's not his place to cry about this, and he's got important work to do, so it's not the time anyway. He takes a deep breath, in and out, steeling himself. As he pulls away, he holds her shoulders, squeezing them a bit, looking into her eyes.

"It's all we can do, and an honor to do it." An honor to be able to help someone grieving in any way, and an honor to provide physical proof that this child was here, they lived, they were important.

Plus, if Finnick doesn't do something, his own helplessness will eat him alive.

"Will the cold be an issue for you? I'm a little worried about it, myself." Not that it's going to stop him even if he gets hypothermia.