TDM #4

[calderaevents]

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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Comments

OOC QUESTIONS

[calderaevents]

[died_a_virgin]

Quick question! One of the canon points I'm thinking about pulling Seras from is the end of the series when she has lost an arm and uses a shadow-like substance to create something like an arm to use daily. But being able to use and manipulate this shadow-like substance is one of her powers as a vampire.

Would she still be able to use the shadows to just have an arm or would she be armless? I'm cool either way as it would make things rather interesting for her.

ASK THE TAVERNKEEPER (IC Questions)

[calderanpcs]

Standard questions and answers:

Q: Where am I?
A: Caldera, a world split by Land, Sea and Sky.

Q: Why have I been brought here?
A: The world is dying and the leaders have requested outside aid from Visitors like you to help revive it.

Q: Where's all my stuff?
A: Not here. You may get whatever you wish returned if you put forth the effort.

Q: Who are you?
A: The keeper of the tavern.

Q: What if I don't leave the tavern?
A: You have no choice.

Q: What happens if we fail?
A: Caldera falls.

Q: What's in it for us?
A: Power. Glory. The thanks of the rulers.

Q: Can we die here?
A: Yes, but Visitors that make an effort to prove themselves to the rulers will be revived. Those who work against them may not be so lucky.

NEW CHARACTER TOPLEVELS

[calderaevents]

Link your toplevels here!

lucanis dellamorte | dragon age: the veilguard | undine

[inspiteof]

here

lucanis dellamorte | dragon age: the veilguard (spoilers) | undine

[inspiteof]

arrival—

To say Lucanis was distressed would be an understatement. Not only was he burdened with the knowledge that Rook may not return from the Fade or wherever she had ended up, but now he had been thrust into some strange new realm himself with only an ominous note and the distinct hissing of a particularly pissed off demon piloting his body as he slept.

Sleep. He shouldn't have been doing that to begin with. Spite had him halfway down the stairs, parchment ripped apart in his hands before Lucanis came to and halted just as he reached the tavern proper. At least years of practice as a Crow assured he knew how to pretend he wasn't screaming on the inside (although someone still was), and Lucanis was doing his best to ignore him as he took in his surroundings.

"At least my pants are still on." He muttered to himself, only barely able to take another step before a brightly colored drink was placed into his hand by a barmaid that vanished into the crowd. Anyone nearby would hear him sniff the drink and groan. "...I need coffee more than I need whatever this is." Poison of some sort, surely, the sweetness had to be masking something. "I would not drink that." As a warning to a patron beside him.

masquerade—

Outfit ref: suit. mask.
His appropriately themed outfit donned upon arrival, Lucanis casually moved through the crowds, a glass of champagne in his hand he only occasionally sipped at for show while he listened in on nearby conversations. He was new to this world, knew next to nothing about the goings on, but people always talked, and he couldn't help but overhear mention of shadowy tendrils in the sea and the... sky falling a few months ago?

"Mierda..." He cursed. "It would be my luck it falls again today."

the sky's ascension—

Jumping across a handful of floating platforms for free Bones? If that was the coin they were peddling around here, this was an easy cash in for him. Lucanis stood at the start of the course, staring intently at the figure of the 'Admiral' in the center. Something about her didn't sit right — but then again, ethereal, god-adjacent beings were just par of the course at this point. So what the hell was one more?

Well. Whatever. Lucanis readied himself and took that first leap with ease, clearing the jump and heading onto the next just before the platform dropped, leaving him balancing on a sliver of earth floating in the sky. "My best advice is to not look down, for the record." He said to anyone else trying the course.

quests—

i. or does it...? (for spellblade)
Again, Lucanis knew what he was good at. Not that sneaking into museums on heists was precisely his forte, but it fell within his skillset easily enough. Get in, get what they needed, get out. Like an assassination with less killing involved... hopefully?

Of course he came armed, having grabbed a pair of daggers from one of the local merchants with the stipend he had been given upon arrival. And he probably wouldn't have had to use them at all if one of the newly hired guards hadn't stepped into the room where the artifacts had been placed. He ducked behind one of the displays, ready to pounce behind the guard as they entered, hand over their mouth and a dagger settled against their throat. "We do not need to make this encounter bloody."

ii. oops! all dragons!
"A dragon?!" Lucanis sputtered as him and his quest companion exited the cavern. "A talking dragon. Of course." A talking, dying dragon. Depressing and potentially dangerous. Fantastic. "It's always dragons..."

He wasn't saying no. But, man... "It seemed calm enough, I suppose. Hopefully her hatchlings are equally as peaceful when they hatch..."

iii. bone?!
Lucanis and whoever had ended up joining him for this attempt to unravel the mysteries of the counterfeit Bones, had apparently made it all the way to the graveyard bit when the assassin finally spoke up.

"How well versed are you in conversing with spirits?"

Emmrich would be losing his shit right now if he were here.

wildcard—

as always, im down for anything! hit me up on discord @ elfwife. any quests besides the nsfw ones are on the table.

I'm following spellblade's world state for Lucanis.

[spellblade]

It was curiosity more than anything that had Rook agreeing to keep an eye on the ancient artifacts put on display, and most definitely not any sort of allegiance to a historian apparently set on a preserving a history that wasn't his. Call it a Veil Jumper's instinct or a Dalish elf's paranoia, but she couldn't help but wonder if there was more to it than a clash of cultures disagreeing over whether something belonged on a shelf or in a grave.

The point being: not in this world or any other would she be dying over some cracked pottery and carved bones. Instinct kicked in before sense, and she grabbed the wrist holding the knife with the intentions to send a handful of lightning into the offending arm, before she remembered, oh! Yeah! She couldn't do that, currently. Because somehow, she was cut off from the Fade but not Tranquil. On the heels of that realization followed a surge of both relief and delight at the familiar voice in her ear. She tried to say Lucanis?? but it came out a muffled collection of syllables, as she attempted to lean her body and head back from the knife and peel his hand off of her mouth.

Seras Victoria || Hellsing || Undecided

[died_a_virgin]

Arrival

[Seras was confused as she carefully stepped down the stairs. The last thing she remembered was seeing her Master's face after he was missing for thirty years. She looked down at her left arm. The once shifting shadows where now still and she couldn't do anything to use the shadows for anything else. It was just her arm.

She still had her fangs and she was still as pale as she ever was. Her eyes were still scarlet and her hair still pale blonde. As far as everything felt, she was still a vampire, but yet she couldn't use some of her powers that she had grown accustomed to using.

She stepped into the tavern and looked around, moving to the bar and asking the Tavernkeeper a few questions. She didn't want a drink, it would cause a violent reaction that she didn't want to deal with at the moment.]

Well, that's not that helpful....

Lightwalking

[While Seras might be able to walk in the sunlight again, she still preferred the night. Thirty years of living in the darkness was a hard habit to break. She wished that she could share this with Captain Bernadotte, but she knew that he was lost. She couldn't even hear his voice in her head. He really was gone for her.

Still, despite her loss, she was going to enjoy the lights. The lanterns were beautiful. She looked up at them almost like a child would. She slowly walked along, just looking up at the lights and not really paying attention to where she was going until she accidentally ran into someone.]

Oof! I'm so sorry!

Grand Masquerade

[Seras had never been to a masquerade before. She had managed to find a beautiful black and red dress that looked good with her pale skin. She had one black opera length glove on her right arm, her left was just fully black from the shadows that she once had control over. To complete the outfit she had found a pretty black and red bat mask to complete her outfit.]

If only Master and Sir Integra could see this...

[She smiled a little bit as she stepped into the crowd.]

Lightwalking

[holdshisown]

[Maedhros gives the young woman a reassuring smile, showing her he's taken no particular offence at getting bumped into. Even though he privately wonders how she could have missed him, he's not exactly easy to miss seeing as he stands at nearly eight feet tall.]

That's quite alright, my young friend, but perhaps you should be a bit more mindful of your surroundings lest you bump into something a bit more unyielding than mere flesh?

Y'shtola Rhul || Final Fantasy XIV || Undine

[notyournhaama]

Arrival/Drinks

[The last time Y'shtola got pulled to another world she had left her body behind. This time, she still had her body. And this time the magic of the world was rather interesting. She didn't see the aether flowing around her or in the objects that were made, but she did see something interesting. Her silver eyes could still see the faint traces of something in the objects around her, but nothing like the aether of Eorzea.

She wasn't fond of being unable to use her spells, but she was also mildly annoyed that she didn't have her staff. Even without her magic it was a formidable weapon to use, even if she wasn't supposed to use it that way.

White feline ears flicked as she stepped into the tavern and up to the bar. She thought about asking for one of the special drinks, but none of them sounded like something she would like, so she stuck with a simple glass of red wine.

However, her back stiffened as someone accidentally tread upon her tail. It really was her own fault for not keeping it out of the way. Still, it hurt.]

Seven Hells....[She muttered more to herself than the one who had done the stepping.]

The Grand Masquerade

[Parties weren't high on Y'shtola's priority list. She preferred to be studying and trying to find a method of travel between worlds. Maybe the library here would be able to help her. Yet, she still found herself drawn to the party. She had found herself a nice dress and a half mask that contrasted nicely against her dress.]

This is such an interesting place.

[She was the only one of her kind here. Her feline ears flicked with the noise, picking up bits of conversations as her tail swayed behind her. She tapped her knuckles against her chin as she stood to one side. At least at this party she wasn't going to be accused of murder.]

The Sea's Secrets

[Y'shtola eventually found her way to the garden. It reminded her of the Lotus Stand in Gridania. She couldn't see the details of the garden, but she could smell the flowers and hear the faint movement of water. She looked over at Cordelia, seeing great power in the woman. She didn't try to approach, as she wasn't invited.

So she would just walk silently through the garden, enjoying the quiet as she pondered this new world she was brought to.]

The Grand Masquerade

[thesunreturns]

Simon was still in the habit of classifying people based on his own world; while Cait Sidhe typically had more subtle signs of their feline nature in their humanoid forms, he can't help think of one when he sees Y'shtola. Certainly the association means he's not unfamiliar with the body language.

"It is," he commented. "Of all the travelers I've spoken to, many find common elements of their homes in this world, but none of us seem to find it exactly like our own worlds."

Dorian Storm | Critical Role | Undecided (possible SPOILERS for recent CR episodes)

[makingmyway]

Arrival/Drinks

[ The panic Dorian had felt when he'd woken up alone in a strange room hadn't entirely subsided, but the presence of the Tavernkeeper somehow calms him a bit, at least enough that he is at least willing to take a breath and listen as questions are asked.

Unfortunately the answers aren't necessarily that reassuring. And it isn't like he's entirely new to helping save a world on the brink of disaster either, but he isn't really thrilled about having been pulled away from home for it. It turns out gods weren't the only ones to interfere with people's lives, it seems.

Still, he tries to soothe his anger with the reminder that this had apparently been a call for help, and if he was stuck here he could at least try to do what he can to assist. And currently the drink he'd been given by the Tavernkeeper, something he doesn't quite remember the name of, is at least helping improve his mood significantly.

Honestly, as he takes another sip, he's strangely feeling in higher spirits about everything. ]

Lightwalking

[ While Dorian isn't entirely familiar with the exact traditions of this Season of Lights, he can't help feeling a bit nostalgic as he takes his time wandering the streets at night, admiring the lanterns that glow against the darkened sky. He finds himself thinking back to his childhood in the Squall, of the lanterns that were often released into the sky during celebrations and festivities.

And seeing the glimmering lights spread all throughout the land, sky, and sea, it certainly achieved the desired effect of making the three realms seem unified. Dorian was a bit surprised to find himself enjoying the event, listening to the uplifting stories and even learning some of the carols.

It was a good reminder of remaining optimistic, and the promise of a better future. ]

The Grand Masquerade

[ Now this is certainly something that Dorian can be excited about. With everything happening back home, there understandably was no longer time for anything as impractical as a masquerade or a ball. But Dorian certainly missed those times, when things were a little easier and the world wasn't on the verge of ending. Times when it he didn't have to feel guilty about having a bit of fun and enjoying himself.

And unlike the last time he had attended a ball, this time he wasn't restricted to having to fit any kind of role, and was allowed to simply just be himself. While his new outfit wasn't at all as gossamer as some previous outfits he's had, it was still showy while still feeling regal and comfortable. He also enjoys the mask that he had been able to find, something simple but still decorative, and even managing to display his musical interest.

Overall, a perfect outfit to represent himself. ]

Wildcard

(( This is actually my second time trying out Dorian here, so we'll see how things go! If you'd like to do something besides the prompts, feel free or hit me up at usamichan13 to plot something out! ))

Masquerade!!!!

[fundamentalchaos]

Ashton didn't know why they had bothered to attend some fancy function but in the end, it got them out of the house...or where ever they've been staying lately. Point is, maybe they'll make more friends. They hadn't even thought about the idea that anyone from home could be among the newbies.

That is until a familiar flash of color and blue skin catch their eye and it's hard not to recognize hair that fades from black to white like that. Even with the mask. Grabbing a couple drinks from one of the servers passing by, Ashton weaves their way to Dorian before holding out the second drink.

"Well aren't you a sight for sore fuckin' eyes." There's a pause before Dorian takes the glass offered before Ashton tilts their full face covering mask, an eerie sort of pure white with gold lines that mimic the ones along the Genasi's body, and grins at him.

Davrin | Dragon Age: The Veilguard (spoilers) | Sylph

[daddywarden]

ARRIVAL
"I can't just stay here, I need to find Assan," Davrin was staring incredulously at the Tavernkeeper while holding a drink in hand. Not that he had tried a sip of the drink yet but that was only because his brain was still reeling about what had happened. Had he been yanked to another part of the Fade? Or somewhere else more distressing?

It didn't matter to him because he was missing his feathery counterpart. A strange thought for a man who had once thought he wouldn't be able to raise a griffon but maybe Rook had been right whenever she teased him about having a feathery son. Now the normally calm man was freaked -no, concerned- about the fact that he didn't know where Assan was.

Giving up with a frustrated sigh when it became clear he wouldn't get any answers, he moved away while glancing at the drink in his hand. He gave it a cautious sniff but he did seem hesitant about taking a sip. What if it was drugged?

THE GRAND MASQUERADE
Davrin felt a little weird about attending a grand party but he was there, dressed in grays and blue with a simple gray mask adorning half his face. Not that it was hard to figure out who the man was as he walked around, at least not hard to those who knew him. But there weren't many that knew him here and so the fact that they were all wearing masks now?

He would linger on the edge of the party, moving around slowly, always scanning the area as though he was looking and waiting. Maybe he was watching for someone he might recognize or maybe he was watching for trouble. Some habits were hard to break after all.

SEASON OF LIGHT
While there were a lot of new traditions Davrin was being exposed to, he did like the "Lightwalking" but it made him wish Assan or some of the other companions were around too as he could imagine they would like it. Harding, for instance. She would love all the sparkling lights, the magical feel of people gathered together, and the soft sounds of singing in the background. He thought even Neve and Emmrich, all of them, would get a kick out of it.

But he was strolling by himself for now, his gaze drifting this way and that until he realized he was a second away from bumping into someone. He pulled up short but he still reached out to touch their arm, an apology escaping him. "Sorry, I wasn't watching where I was going."

WILDCARD
[Run into Davrin wherever, he'll be roaming around.]

arrival;

[inspiteof]

"I don't believe it's poisoned." Lucanis, who had seemingly appeared out of nowhere amongst the mingling arrivals, said as he came up to Davrin's side, a cup of his own cradled in his palms. He nodded to his companion's own cup. "But I still would not drink it."

nina ironfist | original | sylph

[likeiron]

masquerade

FIT CHECK: suit. mask.

People might have been surprised to know that Nina Ironfist attended a lot of events like this. Well. Not exactly like this. But high-class balls weren't out of the norm, and given her father's reputation, he was often invited even if he didn't want to go. Had to keep up appearances though, lest the Ironfists somehow be shamed for snubbing those above them on the social hierarchy.

That said, she didn't like them much. The food was good, the drinks were usually high quality, but the people? Boring. Agonizingly, frustratingly boring. The locals here weren't bad so far, but maybe that was just the shiny new world affecting her overall. Either way, Nina was mingling... sort of. More standing around drinking way too much wine and crinkling her nose in annoyance when someone approached her.

"If you ask me to dance I will throttle you."

the sky's ascension

LiLi don't play American Ninja Warrior contestants challenge

"Watch this." Nina said before she suddenly took off and leaped onto the floating platform in front of her without even a hint of hesitation. She did the same with the next, and another, flying cross the floating course with a speed that bordered on ridiculous. Just for the hell of it (she was showing off), she even did a few front flips, catching herself just on the edge of the last platform before it descended into the cloudy abyss below.

When she reached the start again, she grinned. "Think you can beat my time?" You were timing her, right?

quests

i. baby it's cold outside
Nina stared up at the sky, full moon just beginning to rise. "Looks like a good time to get those Frostblooms." She said, snatching the parchment off the questboard and looking it over again. "And the ferns, I guess, if we want to go into the woods."

She turned to her partner for this particular quest. "Think there's monsters and shit out there? I'm going to die of boredom if I'm just picking flowers all night."


ii. dancing with disaster
Congratulations on choosing to join Nina for this horrendous and creepy quest! The young woman was currently sitting on the railing of the airship she had chartered, — the captain of which had been very reluctant to assist, given the strange song making people dance to their supposed dooms in the sky — staring at the island coming into view.

"It's fucking weird, right?" She asked after a long moment of silence. "Not the dancing — I mean that's weird too, obviously. But these floating islands. It's all weird. Like they shouldn't be here at all." Said the woman with an opal woven into her ponytail. Shut up.

wildcard

you know how we do!

masquerade- LOOK WHO IT ISSSS *throws a fuckboy at you for punching*

[odare]

Fit check: Suit, mask.

Finnick has also attended a lot of events like this, and like Nina, he usually found them boring and draining. But here and now, it's a welcome break from the horrors that have been going on. He isn't bound by the burden of needing to be nice to rich people, here, or needing to keep up appearances. He can just be himself, whoever the fuck that is.

Nina is pretty, and he hasn't seen her before, so you know what that means. She already has a drink in hand, so as he glides up to her, he presents her a small gift of a macaron in a napkin.

"Not enjoying yourse--" His smoothly purred question is cut off by her irate warning. He blinks for a moment.

See, Finnick usually expects a negative reaction to his flirting, but since arriving in Caldera with all of these people who are way too nice, he's gotten used to not being rejected or not having angry retorts thrown his way, so it does take him off-guard for a second.

"Whoa, whoa, okay, no dancing. No need for throttling!"

bellara lutare | dragon age | sylph

[fadebolt]

arrival.
There are so, so many things someone should be concerned about when they first appear in a place like this: how to get home, what's happened to you, is this place a danger, things like that. Things that maybe someone shouldn't be concerned with would be...trying out every drink the bar has to see what the effects are.

And yet, that's what Bellara is doing.

Or, rather, it's what she wants to be doing, but the barkeep has decided to cut the very strange elven woman off at three drinks and, much to her disappointment, it means she can't actually ascertain anything about the other options! So if you're headed over, you valiant soul, to try something? You'll spot a woman with a notebook out (huh??) jotting things down, and she'll brighten the moment she locks eyes. "Oh! Are you here to get a drink? Would you do me a huge, huge favor? I don't think anything's harmful about these--" What a reassuring way to talk to someone! "--buuut I want to see what they do? I've tried some and they have the weirdest changes happening."

Yes, she is jingling every time she moves. No, she has nothing jingling on her person. "Please? I don't have any coin but I'll be right here with you. And I'm sure there's nothing bad. It just seems like fun!"

Bellara Lutere, coping out of her worry by focusing on something she can fuss with? On brand.


the masquerade.
She's never been to something like this but it feels like something straight out of one of those Minrathous serials. Court intrigue, daring glances...even possible romance! It's exciting! It's something so new and unique. And while she's still not sure what to make of this place, she'll still go. It's rude not to, most likely, and she'd rather cause trouble later if things here are evil rather than to upset someone who might be willing to help.

The dress she's wearing is too nice for her, she feels, and she wishes she had better sleeves on it...but the drape at the waist has allowed her to sneak in a pen and notebook (where did she get it?) so she can idly take some notes like a grand detective. But mostly? She's just marveling at people in their dresses and coats and masks, totally basking in the glow of something eye-opening and wonderful. And still taking notes. Which might be a bit of a social faux pas.

Or if you pass by, you might even hear a small gasp of wonder because you look amazing. But if you turn and look, she'll just give an awkward little smile and wave. "Oh, sorry. Didn't mean to interrupt. You just...look great!"

Or if you're also being a wallflower, she might try to strike up conversation. "What do they mean by favor? Do you know what we're supposed to do?" She wants to just be prepared, honestly, because she wants to investigate.


an ancient secret.
Without her magic and without her bow, she's not going to be much help in a fight. But hearing about tablets and ancient information, old magic? That's right up her alley. So whether you've gotten roped into all of this or decided to test your luck, she's right there at your side on the journey to the island. But once there...

Even without access to her magic, Bellara feels it. The heaviness in the air, the dread. She looks pale but doesn't pause or hesitate. "This feels so wrong. It's overwhelming. Can you feel it too?"


wildcard - season of light.
[ Any other prompts for roaming the place and looking at decorations/lights and getting conversations can go here! Please PM me if you need me to change anything or if you want a custom starter. I'm better at those than open-ended things! ]

[inspiteof]

Leave it to Bellara to potentially counter all of the absent warnings Lucanis had offered with regards to the drinks being handed out by the shape-shifting tavernkeeper (odd, by the way, but he's already seen weirder with the rest of his companions back home).

"Some? How many have you tried?"

Caitlyn Kiramman | Arcane | undecided

[bluebullet]

1. Arrival

Caitlyn woke up with a massive headache. She was sure she was either dead or knocked out after (or during!) the fight with Ambessa. That woman hits like a zeppelin, she wouldn't be surprised if she has a concussion. She could feel her cheek throbbing from the punches, and aftertaste of blood in her mouth.

She didn't expect to wake in a room, certainly not a tavern. Glancing quickly over the note, she snatches it with a crumple and gets out of the room, trying to be as quiet as possible. Inching her way to the bar, she listens in to the conversation the bartender is having with another 'guest' - not a single piece of information is helpful or familiar.

The bartender turns to her when they spot her and she vigorously shakes her head, "No drinks, thank you," and nods a small apology to the other person, "Apologies for interrupting the conversation."

2. Masquerade

Fancy gatherings and celebrations aren't strange to Caitlyn, she had attended a handful of them as she was growing up... when everything was fine. She wasn't a big fan of them, preferring to be on a shooting range or reading, but one does what one must do, especially after what happened.

But masquerade- it's been quite a while since she attended one of those. Her dress was as elegant as the others, fairly simple with a matching mask. Feeling uneasy, as she knew almost no one around here, Caitlyn kept mostly away from the dance floor and near the tables where there was food and conversation. She tried not to seem like she was listening in, but to a keen eye, it was very obvious.

When she spotted a pair leaving the ballroom as soon as they came in, she felt a bit alarmed and wanted to follow after them. As luck would have it, another guest crossed her path, and she almost ran into them. She sighed in mild irritation, having lost the sneaking couple, and fixed her mask, not quite addressing the fact that she almost ran into the other person.

3. Sea's Secrets

After finally managing to untangle herself from conversations of the ball, Caitlyn finally made her way to one of the terraces of the palace. Born curious, this was surely going to be the "it killed the Cait cat" scenario. She expected a notorious gathering of people, plotting, and whatever else one would do to sabotage an evening gathering.

Instead, she was met with a calm, quiet, peaceful water garden. Few others taking a walk and enjoying the scenery, the Queen of the Sea watching over it all. It was not something she expected at all.

Slowly, carefully, making sure not to trip and fall into the water because of her gown, she walked over to where she could watch the Undines swim peacefully, her thoughts of home and battle and destruction and Vi drifting away with the currents.

She's not sure how long she was standing there, watching the starry waters, but long enough to block someone's way. They'll need to snap her out of it by speaking up because she's not noticing anyone or anything right now.


[ooc: tell me if you are caught up with the show because of the spoilers! I don't want to ruin anyone's fun! PM me if you want a personal prompt!]

Masquerade

[buffleheaded]

Imoen almost runs into the woman. She keeps fiddling with her mask, running a fingertip over the edge of it. At least the look is nice. She's mostly comfortable in a pink dress, only wishing she didn't have scars from cuts and drops of acid peeking out along with her bared shoulders.

It's the atmosphere that puts her off. The rogue is not used to this setting at all - put her in a library, or a dungeon, or present her with some doors whose locks need jiggled into compliance. But a classy party? She keeps thinking about activities that should merit putting her under careful watch.

Perhaps bothering this more elegant woman would be a decent substitute, she thinks. She might not have noticed the sneaking couple herself, but Caitlin is clearly intent on something. Imoen pops on a quick and easy smile, and asks outright, "Little preoccupied tonight?"

[ooc: caught up on the show, no worries for me.]

Finnick Odair | The Hunger Games | Undine

[odare]

Drinks

Finnick loves meeting new people, and loves drinking, so he does enjoy hanging out at the bar where the newbies come in. He finds a slight callous amusement in seeing how disoriented they all are, but avoids them until after they’ve spoken to the tavernkeeper, so their conversation isn’t just them asking him the same questions. That would get tiresome for him and leave little room for flirting. He’s aware the drinks here do weird things and it’s sort of a wildcard, but he likes the surprise of it, likes that it mixes things up.

A. The first drink he tries tonight doesn’t seem to have any disastrous immediate effects. Slowly, as he sips, he starts to feel optimistic and hopeful, which are very rare feelings for him. He may look over at you with a sappy look on his face. If he doesn’t know you, he’ll ask, “how are you?” If he knows you, though, and you’ve been in Caldera for a while, the question will be deeper: “what do you want from your time here?”

B. The second drink… Well. You will see that Finnick is making eyes at you, which is absolutely NOT unusual for him. Especially if you know him, or you already have a flirtationship with him, this will not come as a surprise. He will lean toward you, a catlike smile on his face. Whether you know him or not: “You’re beautiful, do you know that?”

Feast of the Sky

There are a lot of feasts and big festivals in Caldera, and Finnick is a fan. The best kind of food is free, after all. However, this particular feast is filling him with warm and fuzzy feelings. He arrives with Buddy at his side and a canvas bag in hand filled with gifts. He’s spent time thinking of each of his friends here, all who have helped him so much, and made or found each of them a gift. He’ll attempt to find each person after they’re done eating so he can show his thanks. He’ll pull you aside by gently grabbing onto your shoulder, giving you a small but warm smile.

“Hey. How goes it?”

[ooc: if you have CR with Finnick, he will give your character a gift at some point in the season! If you want to know what the gift is but don’t want to respond to this particular prompt, or want to incorporate it into a different thread, let me know by dms or just an ooc note in your tag. I will find something for everyone who wants one :) ]

The Grand Masquerade

Fit check: Suit, mask.

Finnick has been to lots of big events like this. He always loves the food and drink, but usually these events in his world are for the rich, and he usually is there as arm candy, and has to schmooze and make small talk with all of them. They’re all insufferable people, and the atmosphere of decadence is soul-crushing when you know the realities of starving children in the districts. So, he has every reason to skip out on this event… However, he needs this. A lot of emotionally difficult things happened to him during the spooky season that just occurred, and he needs a night of levity.

Finnick is used to being dressed by other people, or having to dress for other people, or for cameras. But oddly, as he enters, he finds himself in clothing that is absolutely something he would have picked for himself based on his own tastes. It makes him feel bright and confident as he schmoozes around the party.

In the water garden, Finnick is absolutely taken by the atmosphere. It’s beautiful, and so is Cordelia. His usual skepticism of her moves to the backburner as he takes everything in. He becomes contemplative, quiet, introspective, and serious, unlike his usual gregarious self. You may find him sitting at the water’s edge. He is thinking deeply about the sea and what it means to him, so if your character speaks to him, that’s what you can expect.


Cult of Triton- Closed to Anthem (cw drowning, child murder)

Finnick has become somewhat known around the coastal areas of Grey Ward as that crazy guy who’s always on his boat or on the beach, saving people from drowning or warning them about the cult. He’s accepted help from Anthem, Tess, Zevlor, and others when he can rope them into it.

A mother knocked on his door one day. He recognized her immediately. Abigail, the mom of the twins who live on the beach, one of whom- Benjamin- he and Anthem had rescued from the cultists in the nick of time. Unfortunately, somehow, despite vigilance from Finnick and Abigail to protect the children, her daughter Alice had gone missing. Finnick searched for her for days, on his boat and in the freezing cold water, to no avail. He had to go back to Abigail with his tail between his legs, sleep deprived, exhausted, and devastated, and tell her of his failure. Abigail seemed to accept somewhat that her daughter may be truly gone, and asked Finnick one more favor- to find her remains.

Of course, he said yes without hesitation. He told Anthem about it all and asked her to come along. She’ll find him on the dock, loading his boat up with towels and blankets to combat the cold they have to face at this point in the season.

Drinks B

[pollicitation]

Once she was done with the whole getting to know the new situation, Eve will accept a drink from the tavernkeeper without a second thought. It was best to create positive bonds than negative ones. Not to mention she needs a drink.

As she enjoys her liquor, she'll notice the person next to her, the way he looks at her which wasn't a turn off, but it reminded her of old times. When he begins to whisper to her, she'll eye him carefully before offering a sigh, "If I haven't ended up in one other world before this one, I would've asked if a) you were already drunk, b) what are you selling?, or c) gone along with it if it meant I could steal a drink from you." A drink or information, not that she'll tell him that.

Maribelle | Fire Emblem : Awakening | Undine

[troubadamsel]

The Grand Masquerade

[ Maribelle doesn't believe for a single second everything's as okay as the leaders say. Hell, she doesn't trust the leaders to begin with. There have been sleepless nights of worry and paranoia about the future...

... but. well. If there's a chance to dress up fancy and feel like a proper noble, she's gunna take it.

That's why she's here, to momentarily forgot her troubles and enjoy a grand affair. She's dressed to the nines, enjoying the atmosphere, and seeking a dance partner.

And she's chosen you. Stranger, friend, wallflower, doesn't matter. She's right up in your personal space. ]

Would you do me the honor of gracing me with a dance? It seems a shame to leave the dance floor so empty on such a lovely night.

The Sky's Ascension

[ ... And then she's encouraged and ushered to jump from platforms in that same poofy dress. This is ridiculous. She has half a mind to storm out and ask what's wrong with everyone here.

But the other half has her jumping, leaping, running, and failing. She's lost count of how many times she's failed this challenge... but she refuses to give up. Even drenched in sweat, out of breath, and looking silly, she keeps getting up to do it again.

Giving up is simply not in Maribelle's vocabulary. ]

He... ha... haaaa... all right... this time... this time for sure, I must...!

Questboard

[ Interested in a lot of quests, LMK if you'd like to do any of these! If you want to plot beforehand, feel free to hit me up at melcat33 for plurk/discord!

- YOU'LL NEVER LEAVE HARDERSFIELD ALIVE
- MUSHROOM MADNESS
- NO SKIN IN THE GAME
- THE WINDS OF WINTER
- OOPS! ALL DRAGONS!
- WHAT A DREAM MAY BRING
- BONE?! (PART 1)
- BABY ITS COLD OUTSIDE ]

Sky's Ascension

[bladeofconquest]

Maribelle finds a hand being offered as she struggles. "Come on, try it with me. If we work together we can make it." She offers. Hopefully she isn't offending this young lady's pride with the offer of help, but Corrin could see Maribelle struggling and can't not at least make an offer of assistance.

Eve | Original Character | Sylph

[pollicitation]

I SEASON OF LIGHT

Whatever was happening in this world before her arrival didn't matter to Eve, as she was accustomed to the world looking dangerous, especially ones she knew nothing or very little about, like this one. All she cared about was finding her way around in this new world. It was similar to the one she was in before but different simultaneously. What was going on? Where was she?

As she walks through the streets, she notices the change in season—there is snow. Last she checked, it was summer in her other world, and she did not want to learn useless things like its name.

At first, the snow and cold weather don't bother her because she is very accustomed to surviving worse conditions, but she will notice she is beginning to shiver. Eve wore a skin-tight one-piece suit that looked more like a bathing suit than battle armor. At least she wore a scarf, detachable long sleeves, a rabbit-styled hoodie with a bow, and knee-length socks. At first glance, it was evident she didn't belong.

Especially how she looks at the holiday lights filling the streets with longing and those singing or gift exchanges with a mix of envy and disgust.

II THE SKY'S ASCENSION

Eve was very accustomed to this activity when it came to the experiments done on her since childhood. She thought she wouldn't have a reason to participate in these so-called challenges; however, she could feel that most of her capabilities were gone. She felt like an average human or as dull as she once was.

These floating platforms and obstacle courses were perfect for helping her better understand her body, and she is thrilled about its existence.

The first time Eve climbs to the course, she falls without a second thought, hoping to know what will happen to her. After falling from the sky for a few short moments, she returns to the starting point again.

The second time, Eve takes the course more seriously by seeing how far she can jump without the help of the wind. Very little. She needed the wind to help her.

The third time, Eve considered the wind, timing, and her disadvantages because she was trying to reach the more challenging obstacle courses, avoiding the simple ones.

Her expression was emotionless as she continued to calculate the situation.

III QUESTS --

THE THRILL OF THE CHASE

She heard about the hefty bounty placed on a counterpart caught only to escape their pursuers. There was exciting news about this individual stealing massive wealth from every faction. It was enough for her to grow curious, wanting to gain as much information about this world as possible. Eve was more than willing to learn to win, even if she needed to get her hands dirty. Sometimes, it's required if you want valuable information.

Searching for the individual in question, Eve was making sure to look like someone who was part of the Red Light District or confident about her position in the world, even if she had no bones to speak of. Only what is the government of this world willing to supply for her?

"Hey, you!" will be all Eve says, trying to get the attention of the nearest individual with an alluring smile on her lips. Do you have any information you're willing to give?" she'll ask next as she begins to play with the strap of her high-knee socks before adding, "I'm willing to pay using my body if it is good enough."

Thrill of the Chase

[bladeofconquest]

"Um, Eve?" Corrin places a hand gently on the other woman's shoulder. "Maybe we could start with offering some money in exchange first?" She's faintly blushing as she says this. Corrin knows her..."friend" has a dispassionate view of intimacy for the most part, given her background, but really. Stripping off in the middle of the Red Light District?

She turns to the courtesan her partner in this mission had zeroed in on. "We're trying to locate a criminal we hear was last seen in this area. If you can help us locate him, we'd be happy to pay you for your help." Corrin was relieved at finding someone else from Visium here, and she wasn't about to let Eve out of her sight any time soon. Since they'd both been drawn to Heaven's Bow, they'd set up in a house together and between the two of them and what funds they had so far, surely they could make answering questions worth the courtesan's while. After all, it's a lot less work than is normally required.

Corrin | Fire Emblem Fates | Sylph (Labyrinthum CRAU)

[bladeofconquest]

Arrival: Mistletoe Mead (Light NSFW)
Waking up in the inn was not an unfamiliar feeling for Corrin; it's not the first time she's woken up in a strange place, and at least a bed is more comfortable than the ground. But she comes down carefully; she has no weapon, and trying to assume her draconic powers or the Dark Boots she'd gained during her stay in Visium both fail. Which means her powers have been sealed again. But she holds out hope this might be another sorcerer's trick as she leaves the room...

Until she gets down to the tavern and speaks with the Innkeeper, and realizes that it's not. She's been spirited away again, from all her friends and loved ones. For now, she's here and has to wait. She orders a drink, unable to really pay much attention save that it has some honey and mistletoe in it, and goes to sit at a table. She's taken a few drinks before she realizes being alone right now is the last thing she wants, but there are others in the tavern, so she goes to commiserate.

At least the drink is good. She likes the honey flavouring.

"Hey. This might sound like a weird question, but...can I kiss you?" It takes a second or two for Corrin to register what she just said before she blushes and tries to backtrack. "I mean, I was going to ask if this had ever happened to you before. Oh gods, what's wrong with me?" She should be more embarrassed but also...Corrin is realizing she would really, really like to kiss someone. "But, um. Also the first thing too." No use fighting it. At this point, all she can do is just let it happen.

[Chaste kisses only!]

Season of Light
Corrin can't be sure what it is that draws her through the first portal, but once she does, she can't regret the decision. Heaven's Bow is unlike any place she's ever seen before...well, except once. Floating islands in an endless sky...could this place be connected to that mysterious land she fell through a lake to find? But that place was deserted, and empty of friendly life, save the mysterious phantom soldiers. This place is lively, and full of people and music.

She has a comfortable home. It's not precisely where she was living in Visium, but it's a start. And she's arrived in time for a celebration. It seems the seasons don't match up exactly; when she was in Visium, it was early fall, but here winter is upon them. Joining in the festivities is a way for Corrin to try and heal the hurt in her heart, of all the missing faces and friends she's had to leave behind. She has no gifts to give just yet, but the Lightwalking tradition appeals. She manages to get a lantern, and sets out onto the streets, walking among the people. It's good to be among others right now.

"Hey, are you doing the Lightwalking thing too?" She holds up a lantern of her own. "Can I join you? It'd be nicer to walk with someone else, wouldn't it?"

Questboard-Oops! All Dragons

It seems that if Corrin comes to another world, somehow, she'll get pulled into raising a dragon. Maybe like just recognizes like. She was curious about the mysterious quest and went to meet with the client. She was not expecting another dragon, but she can't turn away a request like that. And she does have experience raising a baby dragon.

Cloud Sheep
Hardly the most dangerous foe she's ever faced, but they certainly are mean and ill-tempered enough. But the dragon egg needs warmth only their wool can provide, and Corrin won't let its mother down. For this quest, Corrin has traded her sword for a pair of shears. There's no reason to employ more force than necessary, is there?

"If we can stop one of them dead in its tracks, just long enough for me to clip off some fur, we can split the haul between us. What do you think?"

Gems
Negotiating access to the mines with the kobolds had been tricky, but Corrin is a conscientious and pleasant person, so she's able to gain access with minimal fuss. She's never exactly mined before though, but there's a seam being worked on that is currently producing gems in good quantities. Even a rookie like her is able to produce a small handful of gems for the hatchling.

"I've been thinking." Corrin muses between strikes of her pick-axe. "That maybe I can make it a little more fun for the little one when they hatch. What if we made it a treasure hunt? If I hid some around the house and let them go hunting. It would be a good way to familiarize them with their home, and maybe the game would be a bonding experience for us."

She enjoys conversation while they work, but the seam is bountiful, and that's undoubtedly going to attract the attention of Gemlins. Be on your guard.

Arrival

[pollicitation]

Eve didn’t need anyone. Not really. She reminded herself of this as she walked into the tavern, the dull hum of conversation and clinking mugs filling the air. The drink she’d been given wasn’t much, but it would do. At least this world had taverns, even if everything else about it was irritatingly unfamiliar.

Another world, another problem. But Corrin wasn’t here. That was the only thought she couldn’t quite dismiss. Corrin wasn’t here, and she should feel relieved by that. The other woman was safe—or as safe as someone living in Somnius could be. Corrin has survived two years in that place without her because she was a survival like her.

Still. That faint pang of unease didn’t go away, no matter how hard she ignored it.

She took a sip of her drink. Alone again. Just the way it was supposed to be.

Then she heard it. A voice, familiar enough to cut through the haze of noise around her, and for a split second, Eve thought she was imagining it. She turned her head, and there she was—Corrin. Sitting there, flushed and flustered, looking like she didn’t know whether to run or laugh.

Eve’s grip on her mug tightened for the briefest of moments before she forced her hand to relax. The relief she felt was unexpected, sharper than she would have liked. Corrin was okay. Not just okay—here, in front of her, and alive. And apparently, rambling.

'...Can I kiss you?'

The words took a moment to register. Eve blinked, her usual deadpan expression fixed firmly in place as she stared at Corrin. Was she drunk? No, Corrin wasn’t the type. That meant either she’d lost her mind or there was something in the drinks. Probably the latter, knowing Eve’s luck.

Then Corrin started backtracking, her words tripping over themselves in a way that would have been endearing if it weren’t so absurd. Eve didn’t bother hiding the faint twitch at the corner of her lips—a smirk that threatened to give her away.

When Corrin finally landed on, 'But, um. Also the first thing too,' Eve couldn’t help herself.

She set her drink down carefully, leaning back in her chair with the kind of deliberate ease that only made her feel more in control of the moment. Then, without missing a beat, she leaned forward slightly, closing the gap between them just enough to make her point clear.

“Permission granted,” she said smoothly, her voice as dry as ever. “But I’m not waiting for you to talk yourself out of it.”

And before Corrin could respond—or embarrass herself further—Eve leaned in and kissed her. It wasn’t a shy or hesitant kiss; Eve didn’t do those. It was confident but not overwhelming, a balance she hadn’t entirely expected to find herself caring about. When she pulled back, her gaze lingered on Corrin for a moment longer than she should have let it.

“There,” Eve said, picking up her drink again and leaning back in her chair. “Request handled.”

She sipped her drink, letting the sweetness settle on her tongue again as she studied Corrin’s reaction out of the corner of her eye.

Prince Henry | Red, White & Royal Blue | Undine

[lordfuckleroy]

:NEWBIE DRINKS:

[ Was it wrong to say that Henry had been dreaming of those drinks the entire month, so much that he wanted to go back to that little nexus portal to try them again, It had been like something right out of a fantasy novel, and it had been his first taste of pure unadulterated magic, but it certainly was not his last by any stretch.

And so he was at a table, watching the new arrivals arrive and he would absolutely assist where he could to make them feel at home. But, there was no way that he could resist the allure and the pull of the various drinks on offer. He was missing the holiday season which, he could not deny, he loved. It was his favorite time of the year, the palace being awash in Christmas firs, the wassailing, the scent of gingerbread cookies baking in the oven.

As a small boy, delightedly helping to decorate the treats. As he grew older, he would take those same homebaked cookies to the cancer ward and distribute them out to children who were stuck for the holiday season. Wearing a cheesy santa hat and saying 'ho ho ho merry christmas'. Those were never publicity stunt, because he loved interacting with the children, would've done it even if it was under the cover of darkness and with nary a camera in sight.

For one night only, the fragrance of Santel 33 was replaced by Gingerbread Man drink that he was sipping on. ]

Oh no, this is not my cologne, this is the drink-- it makes you smell like the holiday spirit. [ And there was a pleased tone in his voice, a happiness there that was far freeer than it had been.

:LIGHTS:

[ At this moment, hovered on a ladder just outside his shell house, he was attempting to put up lighted decorations. He'd found some ones in the shape of sea horses and thought there was quite charming and had gotten it in his head that he had to decorate his abode for the season.

He was only a little homesick for the family that he remembered. He missed Bea and he missed Sean, and yes even some of the servants who had been with him since he was a young child. So he had decided to swathe his cottage in something seasonal that would help him remember the season.

Indoors, he had already decorated in boughs of holly and ivy which he had noticed with pleasure was also available in abundance at the markets. So he painstakingly looped the lighted festoons over the eaves and occasionally he would lean in to grab a nail to nail something down as best he could (for someone who had not ever used a hammer or a nails).

If sensing someone behind him, watching his work-- he would call over his shoulder. ]

Can you tell me if this is straight? I am not very good at this, unfortunately.

:MASQUERADE:

Now that his best friend knew he was gay, well that was one less thing that he had to worry about; granted there were some things that were between them, unspoken and a bit frightening in that it was uncharted territory for Henry. But he was willing to see what happened, and because of the free nature of this place, he was starting not to hide it so much. Little parts of his personality would shine through, pieces that he'd meticulously kept under cover.

His smiles became a bit more free in nature, his shoulders relaxed if but a little (though he still had that posture that could not be erased, due to years upon years of ettiquette training.) It was that posture that served him well as he entered the Masquerade. He wore something that was a little more casual then he was used to, a silk shirt that draped, with a cravat like a waterfall, and tight fitting trousers that conformed to muscled legs.

A royal blue sash around his waist, high boots that went up to his knee, buckled in silver. And on his face, an Owl's Feathered Mask, to represent that he prized knowledge above all else; his nerdism knowing no bounds.

Despite that he did not want to appear as royal, it was true that the way he carried himself gave away that secret completely, even if he did not say as much with his words. He would be more than happy to dance, and would go around and hunt down the people who did not look like they were asked to dance too much, executing a chivalrious bow and going, "May I have the pleasure of this dance?"

WILD CARD

Hello everyone, I am Nia (zauberdecke) and here comes the very dumb Prince from Red, White, and Royal Blue. Feel free to hit me up in DM or on Plurk for any ideas, I'm mutable!

Masquerade Costume
Outfit
Mask

Masquerade

[internationalrelations]

They have the feathers in common. That was the first inane thought that Alex's mind supplied while the rest of him tried to wrap his mind around the sight in front of him. Henry -- who was always frustratingly handsome -- looked like he'd stepped straight out of a fairytale, every bit the prince that Alex knew he was. For a moment he stood stock still in the crowd of partygoers, staring.

Great, good job, Alex. Pull it together.

A breath and he made his way over to where Henry was standing. Alex was still getting used to where the wings of his elaborate outfit and mask, so he was a bit of a danger to the people he was brushing past.

Henry would likely hear him coming with the murmured sorry, excuse me... so sorry.

Once he was close enough, once he caught Henry's gaze, a smile would bloom over his features out of pure reflex. "Why do you look like you belong here? Fancy magic land suits you."

Enver Gortash | Baldur's Gate III | Undine

[closeyourfist]

[The Masquerade]

Much of Gortash's work since arriving has been...slow. It's hard not to hang oneself up on their own death, and then there were other things. Not thinking and diving into work, focusing on the research in front of him, keeping his home going. That has been the focus largely.

It was simple to start. Settling into this new existence, fairly disappearing into it. Somewhat enjoying the anonymity of it all.

For a while he receded, though. Beginning to emerge again only recently because -- well he has to, doesn't he? Strange that he should feel a pull toward this event. To find his way up to this palace in the clouds and step through, attire changed, into something not-at-all unfamiliar.

There were similar soirees back in Baldur's Gate. Harvest celebrations. The wealthy elite of the Gate donning costumes and masks, using anonymity and coin to overindulge and trade special connections. He was chosen to serve as Master of Ceremonies early in the development of the Steel Watch. An up-and-coming weapons specialist catching the ear and eye of many an influential name in the higher echelons, ready to unveil a new invention sure to please the heavier purses: security without dirty, common hands coming into their corner of the universe. His was one of the few names it wasn't taboo to know in the otherwise "could be anyone" atmosphere of it all, as the one who declared festivities open and closed.

Here he is in charge of nothing, and he's not certain the level of debauchery likely to be present, but tonight he feels like he should be keeping his eyes open. Whether for new faces, old ones. Trajectory of some kind.

If nothing else, this is a corner of this world he hasn't visited yet. There is always something to learn.

[The Sea's Secrets]

The unfolding garden begins to reveal for him at least why the outfit is the way it is. He can be found wandering with other visitors after he's tired of the rest of the party. Thoughtful, but for once in a place that seems as full as his head, and it creates a kind of balance.

He has to find his way past whatever has been holding him in place. The world around him stresses patience, though.

Masquerade

[buffleheaded]

Imoen is there in mask and pink dress, scars from cuts and acid splotches peeking out at the bare shoulders. And - she's uncomfortable, not because of the outfit, but because it's not the environment she knows. The closest she came to upper class events had been holing up in a ducal library, studying scrolls longer than her attention span.

Let her fly back to the recently-discovered sky island. Let her undermine whatever the local equivalent of Spellhold is.

Let her pick up a glass of wine, and tip it toward the man with the fascinating mask, before taking a sip. "Hope you're comfy in all that. Find anything you like?"

Alex Claremont-Diaz | Red, White and Royal Blue | Sylph (Currently in game)

[internationalrelations]

[ 1. Welcome Drinks ]

[Alex remembers his own arrival not all that long ago, so why not show up and play welcoming committee to the newcomers. And have a drink while he's at it. The last time he was here he'd wound up spilling way too much truth about what was on his mind, but that doesn't stop him from grabbing a drink.

And wind up jingling every time he moves.]

Ha! Check this out! [Here is Alex, a grown-ass man jumping up and down to the rhythm of jingle bells. Magic is weird as hell.] ...this probably isn't permanent right?

[Anyway, he's in a good mood and eager to slide into a seat at the bar.] Okay, what do you think I should try next? What're you drinking?


[ 1. Masquerade ]

[Alex is still getting used to the whole magic thing. It's still mostly fascinating and entirely cool, but as he steps inside and feels the faint shimmer of something changing, he has to wonder at who exactly is making these choices. The suit wouldn't be terrible, if the enchantment had remembered to include a shirt instead of wings, but he supposes it could be worse. The gold mask matches well enough.

A shrug of his shoulders and he wandered immediately towards the refreshments, snagging himself something appropriately alcoholic.]

Hell of a party, right? [To whoever happens to be nearby.] Nice mask.


[ 3. Sky's Ascension ]

Okay. So this is awesome. I've totally played a videogame like this before.

[Which involved less actually bodily throwing himself off high places, but Alex figures nothing ventured nothing gained.]

It's all about timing. ...I think.


[ 4. Quests ]

[Alex is lingering around the quest board, peering at all the various quests on offer. He seems very intent, jotting down a few things on a little journal he's managed to find himself somewhere. This is a man on a mission, dark eyes bright and focused, though his expression lights up into a friendly enough smile at the sight of someone else.]

Don't suppose you're looking for a new friend to go questing with? I really need to start earning some bones.

[So he can get magical powers. His priorities are in order.]


[ 5. Wildcard ]

(( Hey all! Feel free to hit me up with anything. Alex will be around and about. Any quest is totally fair game except the dragon egg one which he'll be doing with his narrative foil the prince. I'm on plurk at seasided if you want to talk something out. ))

[lordfuckleroy]

(So, you know we mentioned a dragon named RuPaul for a quest? Does Alex still want to drag(ahahaha) Henry along on that?)

Barcus Wroot | Baldur's Gate 3 | Dryad

[lost_and_foundry]

Season of Light

After the turmoil in the ocean, it feels a little like hubris, all this. It's beautiful, the lights in the crisp air, the couples and families walking arm in arm, but Barcus is feeling gloomy in spite of it. They were told from the start that there was something very wrong here, but it feels different now, having seen the evidence of that wrongness with his own eyes.

He strolls under the lights quietly, anyways, and somehow he has trained his cat to come with him on the jaunt. She follows at her own pace, trotting back and forth on a leash of green ribbon, which vanishes under a thick, knitted sweater he's put on her to keep her warm. This is his best friend right now, he makes no apology.

She's not his only friend, though. He may be carrying a few trinkets for others, in his pockets.


Grand Masquerade

Parties aren't his scene, really, but this is hardly the first he's been to, in Caldera. What, he wonders, is the significance of so many of their celebrations involving masks? Are they trying to tell the Visitors something?

At least there will be no ghosts tonight, presumably. When he steps across the threshold, he finds his plain, practical outfit transformed, suddenly close-fitting, sleek and shiny in silver, with ornate lines and curls across the surface. Never in his life has he selected an outfit quite so snug, and he can feel himself blushing behind the matching silvery mask (sooner or later he will have it out with this place about putting him in small animals costumes). Awkward, he backs toward the door again, as if to immediately depart, and that is how he discovers his costume has a tail, which he promptly trips over, landing on the floor.

Hopefully no one will trip over him on their way in.


The Land's Embrace

Once he's adjusted to his outfit, he finds himself drawn toward the room where Terra's garden blooms. Drawn in as if called, he enters, but as he circulates slowly, he feels more and more alienated. It's beautiful, thrumming with life, and he admires what he can see, but the more he observes, the less he feels this place is for him. Love and fertility fills the air and he is...alone. Even before his arrival in Caldera, he was alone. Wulbren is gone, and as much as he does care about the other Ironhands, they're not lovers, they're not family. They're kin, but distant.

It's the sort of thing that makes you wonder about your direction in life. He's built quite the career, but he wants so much more.

He turns to leave without addressing Terra or anyone else in the room. It's complicated.

Wildcard

((Open to all non-NSFW quests! If you want to quest and don't know which one you prefer, PM me and we can talk it over.))

[fundamentalchaos]

Lucky for Barcus the person walking in behind him, who's usual punk attire changes to something much flashier while also being more androgynous and a sleek featureless mask, is more than used to traveling with people smaller than them. Stopping Ashton looks down, blinking first at their own attire change, and quirks a brow at him.

"Need a hand?" They reach down to offer a hand but don't just lift the smaller man. That is the sort of thing that would probably have gotten their arm bit off by a certain crotchety old gnome that they can think of.

Loki | MCU | Undine

[coldsong]

Season of Light

Loki understands winter holidays on a level deeper than bone. This is the time of year when hope stands toe to toe with annihilation. The lights in the air are symbols of soft defiance, and as he walks among them he thinks them not unlike the bonfires the desperate fed in the Salt Spire so recently. It's Winter: the cold and the dark grow, and every little candle is a gleam of defiance against them.

People give generously in the season of greatest deprivation, out of that same defiance. When he was the god of lies and tricks, his task was to follow the Odensjakt, to be a part of the screaming darkness rather than one of the lights dispelling it. But he's no longer the prince of Asgard. He's the prince of nowhere, the god of nothing but his own future, and if someone comes to him for a gift, they will have one.

Grand Masquerade

This sort of event is very much to Loki's taste, though he's not used to it being set in winter. Maybe in some indirect cosmic way it's his compensation for lacking his shapeshifting. He's not entirely thrilled with the idea of the place choosing his clothing for him, but when he crosses the threshold and sees what he's been given, he has to admit, he likes it.

His clothing looks downright dangerous, a delicate glimmery cloak that might just as well be woven of ice. The icicle spikes on his shoulders will certainly enforce his sense of personal space, and he wonders if that's the world's way of editorializing. He is cold. He is prickly. He is dangerous.

The mask is equally eerie: three faces melded into one, smooth and sleek and impossible to read. His black hair tumbles around him, wild curls half-tangled in his frosty collar. It's not a friendly look, and he decides to take the hint, hanging around the periphery of the room rather than approaching anyone directly.

The Sea's Secrets

Loki isn't sure he understands the assignment. The idea of secrets, patience, innate stillness is not foreign to him, but because of the queen standing there, distant but vigilant, he feels watched. He feels judged. Suddenly he's a child again, standing in the corner of Odin's study while his father goes over some sort of trade pact. Asking questions, offering to help, getting nothing but 'mm' in reply.

He's in the throne room, standing in front of the old man, the two of them staring one another down in cold fury, each waiting for the other to break.

He hates this, and resents Cordelia for her silence, her stare, but he's also loath to give in, and so he remains, watching her and anyone who walks past him, still as the ice his clothing represents.

Wildcard

((Open to pretty much any quests, including NSFW ones. PM or message me on discord if you want to talk it over!))

Masquerade

[eightbeers]

At some point, Loki would feel something pushing and poking at one of the spikes on his cloak. That someone was a petite Japanese woman standing on a chair, clad in a dress and mask covered with flowers and butterflies, utterly fascinated by the design of his pauldrons and curious to see if they were actually sharp. Because they looked sharp! Sharp enough to stab someone with! It was always a good idea to know where one could find an impromptu weapon, if needs be.

Viktor | Arcane | Undine

[hexcorized]

Arrival;

[ It all happens in a flash and he finds himself in a strange peculiar place, unlike anything he's ever seen before. The robe that's draped about his shoulders drags across the tavern floor, his metallic limbs are heavy as he uses his cane for support as he wanders through the tavern silently (aside from the rhythmic thump of his cane), before resting in a darkened corner of the room. He doesn't say anything, not a peep, his body is still transformed, and yet the hexcore's power is no longer present. Was it this place's doing and if so, how? Or perhaps he and Jayce had really put a stop to it then? How curious. He might not look it but his expression is a mixture of being perplexed, curious, and worried all at once.

When asked for what drink he would like Viktor will wave it off and just order something and that something happens to be CANDY CANE CRUSH of all things. ]

Season of Light;

[ Beneath the midnight sky Viktor will find himself wandering. That seems to be much of what he's doing in this strange new world as of late. He feels...lost and without purpose something that he's been battling long before his arrival here. He will watch the peaceful gatherings going on around him and wonder, wistfully, how such things were hard to come by in Piltover. His eyes explore a world that is untouched by the hexcore and yet magic is proliferate and pure here. He feels that crushing guilt of what he's done wash over him once more as he stops to look at some trinkets on display in a nearby shop before he continues onward, his destination nowhere. In his silent musings, he might bump into you with a body that feels more like solid metal than flesh, and he'll extend a strange purple hand out to steady whoever it is. ] My apologies.

[ An apologetic smile as he tilts his head ever so slightly. ] This place is quite a marvel, no? Magic is so openly welcomed and used...

[ Such a strange thing to comment on but his tone is filled with genuine awe. ]

The Sea's Secrets;

[ Quiet contemplation and tranquility are two things Viktor could get behind. He needs it, if nothing else, and he also hates himself for finding that weighted feeling of ancient knowledge in the air to be a comfort as it draws him back to the hexcore and how it made him feel mere days ago. Somehow without its presence, he's better for it and yet somehow its absence makes him feel uncertain and unsure of himself. But he doesn't linger on those thoughts for very long as he takes a breath and embraces the stillness of the place around him. ]

Wildcard;

[ooc; Open to doing some quests, just PM me and we can discuss! But also please let me know if you'd rather I avoid spoilers for S2! ]

👀 Arrival

[bluebullet]

[Caitlyn could hardly believe her eyes. She had "arrived" (woken up, then came downstairs) perhaps minutes ago, silently 'rebelling' against all the drinks offered by the bartender and looking suspiciously over everyone. She did not expect to see him, in a state that has clearly gotten out of hand. A proof of Jayce's attempt to save him that did more bad than good (from the point in time she's from).

Still... she can't help but feel a certain way when she sees him hunched over a drink like that. She's gotten the story from Mel about what happened and that Victor left because of the change, but she hasn't seen him herself.

She approaches, picks a blue, rock candy out of his hair, and places it on the table in front of him.] You've been busy.

[A statement. He is very, extremely busy at her point in time. The type of busy that got everyone involved.]

Zevlor | Baldur's Gate 3 | Dryad

[hellrider]

Season of Light

Zevlor does not for a minute believe that the troubles below the sea are over and done with. It seems that celebrations follow hard on the heels of every crisis here, and in a sense that's appropriate. Balance. Joy in the midst of adversity. In another sense, it's kind of suspicious.

He's warier of the Lightwalking than is perhaps warranted, but he does go. The idea of gift-giving, on the other hand, is something he embraces easily. Anthem will get all sorts of things, of course, but for his other friends and acquaintances, he's been baking busily. Brace yourself for gingerbread, cardamom buns, apple jelly, and other assorted treats.


Grand Masquerade

He crosses the threshold of the venue with the thought of dancing with Anthem topmost in his mind. He's not fully prepared for the costume transformation. The outfit he finds himself in is a color much to his liking, a berry red slightly darker than his own skin, but the material is soft, luxe, and the cut of it is foreign. He glances down at himself, tugging lightly at the train, and hoping he can manage a waltz without tripping on it.

The style of the mask he's given is likewise a surprise. Angelic, rather than infernal--though there's a fine line sometimes, isn't there?


The Land's Embrace ((For Anthem))

He can feel the thrum of the land's energy even from outside the gardens. Light spills from within, and the scent of damp earth and blossoms is downright delicious. He almost wants to go roll in the grass. Preferably with his lover.

That would be a little gauche, though, and they're still trying to live down having made love in a broom closet. His lips twitch into a grin at the memory, but he turns to Anthem without explanation. She's with another faction, after all, and as much as he wants her company, he doesn't want to hold her back.

"Did you want to come with me, An?" He asks. "Or are you going to see what Queen Cordelia has prepared?"

Wildcard

((Available for all SFW quests! PM me or message me on discord with questions.))

[shuffled]

As if being a part of different factions had mattered to them in the slightest before. Anthem, adorned in her own fancy attire, reached for Zevlor's hand and laced their fingers together as she met his gaze.

"I can go and see what the Queen has prepared later." As far a she knew, they had the whole night yet to observe the other areas of the ball. No need to rush. "This seems just as intriguing. And it smells amazing in there. Like fresh flowers."

Orym of the Air Ashari | Critical Role | Undecided with spoilers for the recent CR episode inculded

[halfling_dad]

Arrival

Orym wasn't expecting to wind up in a tavern with everything going on. But between one blink and another that's where he is. The small man with the shock of slightly curly brown hair looks around almost ready for a fight to break out, but when he glances around and just sees the warm open room with the chatting patrons the tension in his body eases and he wanders up to the bar tapping on it to order a Winters Whisper.

The tea is warm and delightfully spicy in a way that reminds him of Winter's Crest and warm nights by a fire with strong arms wrapped around him and a soft voice in his ear.


The Grand Masquerade

The small figure looking like a deer walks into the grand ballroom assessing the room and any dangers that might be inside. His body language is tense and he seems like he'd prefer to have a weapon in his hand then a drink. He circles the room trying to find a group to join so he feels less self aware.

The Land's Embrace

Orym feels comfortable here....the soft breeze the smell of the trees and the plants is exactly like home. He is almost tempted to slip his boots off and feel the grass under his feet as he walks along. He is still ill at ease here since he is so used to the world being on fire these days.

He stops to watch a pair of lovers holding hands and chatting softly a sad look on his face. He is moving forward yes, but the memories are still there.

masquerade because of course!

[fundamentalchaos]

So far the party has been treating Ashton a lot better than they would have thought and honestly, they're here for it. Between seeing Barcus in his whole number and getting to see Dorian again, Ash is damn near on cloud nine. So much so that they almost don't recognize a certain halfling as they pass, only stopping because the flash of gold horns catches their eye.

They stop and frown a minute before there's a laugh and their face seems to light up.

Not that it's visible behind their own featureless mask.

"No fuckin way...Orym?"

Maedhros | the Silmarillion | Dryad

[holdshisown]

Lightwalking

It truly is a lovely tradition, he thinks, this 'Lightwalking' as they call it. Not just the lanterns, that are lovely all on their own, but the singing and the telling of tales as well. Maedhros feels as if he could spend hours walking down the lantern strewn streets while listening to the carroling. Something about it reminds him a bit of home.

"It's lovely, isn't it?" He asks when he comes across anyone else that's found themselves strolling down these streets.

The Grande Masquerade

Outfit reference: Suit, Mask

He could not help but feel a bit out of place during this masquarede. It had been quite a while since he participated in such a celebration and doing so again felt a bit like donning a set of clothes that no longer fit as well as they used to.

Still... he thinks he managees to put up a good enough front that it shouldn't be too obvious he's feeling a bit out of place. He's even able to keep from flinching when the place changes his clothes for him. He supposes he should be grateful whatever force caused the change clothed him in an outfit he does not find all that objectionable. The mask is a bit gaudy for his taste, though.

Quests

Whatever he might personaly feel about the whole thing it is an easy enough job for what he considersto be rather decent pay. It's not that different from being on patrol, really. With a slight huff of amusement he turns to the one sharing guard duty with him tonight.

"It's likely going to be a boring few hours here," he says. "Standing guard always is."

Guard Duty

[lordfuckleroy]

Currency was currency and while Henry understood that his needs were taken care of, there were certain things that were not hence why he was so eager to peruse the Quest Board and take this particular job. He had located a rapier (which was much like a fencing foil, and much more his speed) and was standing guard alongside the elven man.

He was starting to get used to the plethora of people to be found in this place and how they all had stories behind them. It was fascinating really.

"How many times have you done this particular job?" From someone who it was his first.

Dion Lesage | Final Fantasy XVI | Sylph

[lightundying]

I. Masquerade

As a military commander, Dion is well familiar with the importance of bolstering morale and maintaining it- and these festivities are most certainly that. Smiles are tense and cheer is forced, their dissonance cloaked by masks and frippery. Champagne will see them become genuine enough for a time, at least.

His own magicked mask and clothes are nearly disturbingly well-chosen, down to the golden claw tips adorning one hand. It seems even at rest, Bahamut is known.

Dion drifts out of the cold and into the palace proper, and whilst he intends to spend much of the night with his arm fixed around Joshua, considers that he may yet accept a few other invitations to dance. And naturally, the evening does find them parted at odd points throughout.

Eventually, Dion breaks from the ballroom floor to make his way up to the mezzanine, and leaning against the rail with an eye on the crowd below, nurses a glass of champagne. He tips it in a brief toast upon catching another visitor's eye and offers a faint smile.

"I hope the evening has been treating you well."


II. Sky's Ascension

The platform jumps are nothing to a seasoned dragoon- or would not be, if they did not constantly change elevation, with obstacles thrown in seemingly at random. Still, it is a thrilling challenge, and Dion does not intend to give up until he has conquered it at least once. Still, he does need for a break after some time, and drains a glass entirely of its contents with a hard breath and a grin.

"It would be easier with wings," he remarks to a fellow contender. "But admittedly, that would feel rather like cheating."


III. Wildcard
[ooc: as always, feel free to tag in anywhere adjacent to these prompts, or if there's a quest from the list below you'd like to do, I'm open!

Quests of interest:
YOU'LL NEVER LEAVE HARDERSFIELD ALIVE
AN ANCIENT SECRET (PART 2)
THE WINDS OF WINTER (x2)
DANCING WITH DISASTER]

I

[featheredflames]

Joshua cannot remember the last time he attended such a lavish party. The courts at Rosalith were far more modest and celebrations were never done so with the same sort of pomp and ceremony. Maybe in Sanbreque one would find such friviolities but not in Rosaria.

The outfit he's found himself in is definitely...something, but it isn't terrible by any means and Dion seems to approve of it. He also seems to approve of setting his hand at the small of Joshua's back now and again.

Joshua can't help but approve as well.

His own flute of champagne is raised toward Dion when he spots him approaching, returning his smile twice as wide as he leans against the railing.

"It is a bit overwhelming, admittedly, but I am enjoying myself overall. What about yourself?"