Test Drive #4

[felldenmods]

Welcome to the January test drive! We're so excited to have you with us!

A few things of note:

✦ Test drive threads can be considered game-canon if you choose. They're essentially in a shared dreamscape and take place between your character leaving their world and arriving in the audience hall with their faction leader.
✦ Reserves will open at 12:01 AM UTC on February 1st, and continue to be until 11:59 PM UTC on February 7th. This is to reserve a character, not an application slot.
✦ Applications will open at 12:01 AM UTC on the 8th, and remain open until 11:59 PM UTC on the 15th, or until all application slots have been filled. Once Activity Check ends, we will have an application slot number available on the application page. The IC & OOC intro logs will be posted two days later.
✦ We have added a Suitability section to the application. Check it out! We will be requiring this going forward as it not only helps players see if their character is a good fit for the game but it lets the mod team gather some ideas about direction for your character!
✦ Questions? We have a FAQ that's chock full of good information! If they are test drive specific, we have a top level thread below that allows for OOC questions to be posted.
✦ The network is available to use! No matter where your character is, their compass arrived on their person. Please feel free to include a network post in your top-levels! Once opened, the compass will display instructions on use, such as using voice-commands to activate it. Usernames are your characters first name or their most common nickname.
✦ Below will be a header for OOC questions as well as a request for Death or its Attendants if you risk placing a coin in their offering bowl.
✦ As in December, a secondary blessing will be available in February to those that tag others on the TDM!

All set? Perfect! Welcome to Fellden.

AS THE MOON RISES. You’ll find yourself just outside the Temple gates, which will be locked if you try to open them. A little rude, keeping you out after bringing you all this way, and the more you try to look up at the Temple structure the more insistent guards become in pushing you down the pathway to somewhere else. The thing is, you can hear a lot of commotion in the distance, and smoke rising from the center of a district; you may want to check that out. Where there’s smoke, there’s fire! Except the smoke is not at all something to be concerned over. Instead, people are gathered near a large bonfire in the decorated city square, drinking and carousing, singing songs of celebration; Moon saviors have arrived! War winners! The residents of the city laugh and sing and dance in pairs throughout the square, grateful for those who have come to aid them. Their merriment doesn’t dwindle as the sun begins to set on the horizon, twin moons rising in its place. When you (and other new arrivals) are finally noticed by the revelers, do not expect to be left alone! Chrysanthemums will be offered as brooches or corsages, food and drink placed into your hands, while live musicians play loud enough for the dead to hear — for this is a celebration dedicated to them. Several were lost in the battle held the previous weeks, and the Priestess has decreed a time of mourning through revelry. Spirits must be kept up, even in these dark times. You’ll be invited to dance, to drinking games, and offered food and flowers and other items of value. Some may cry when they look into your face, thanking you for becoming their champions during this long and exhaustive war. Hopefully you’re here to enjoy the festivities despite the pall that may hang over the town. Sneaking off is just fine, too, but don’t expect to be let go of quietly; the people of the Moon Temple are so happy to see you! Enjoy the celebration while it lasts long into the night. If you do manage to leave, a helpful citizen of the Temple will inform you of the nearby transport mirrors that will take you anywhere on the map, one of which they will provide to you.

THE SETTING STARS. You'll find upon your arrival that the castle is not accepting visitors as they prepare the interior for a solemn remembrance of those lost. Guards at the door will instead direct you to the center of the city where most of Starfolk have gathered to say their goodbyes and reminisce of memories past. Venturing there, you'll be greeted either by those who are serving food and drink from nearby taverns, or those with drawn faces tired from battle. Or perhaps you're a late arrival and the worst of the exhaustion has left the city, now imbued with laughter and happier memories! Those loyal to the Court of Stars greet the newcomers with guarded gratitude in their eyes and wary hesitance. How many more of these Otherworlders will betray them, they wonder out loud. If you try and take a seat with a party or three, chances are the conversation will halt as soon as you grow near, and the longer you stay the more uncomfortable the gathered people become. Trust is not easily gained in the Court of Stars; broken now as it is, the natives of this world fear the worst for their Emperor. Will you help us, or will you hurt us, they ask, wanting to believe they still have a chance at surviving this exhaustive war. Whether you choose to remain for the remembrance or wander off, one thing is certain: things must turn around for the Stars soon. If you do manage to sneak off, a hopeful citizen of the Court will inform you of the nearby transport mirrors that will take you anywhere on the map, one of which they will provide to you.

MARKETS OF THE COAST. The coastal city of Kyst is abuzz with an extra amount of people who sought refuge here during the attack on the Moon Temple. Some calm had finally started to settle but now the foundation has once more been shaken. Newcomers will be welcomed with smiling faces from merchants as they look to try to sell their wares. Tavern owners and barkeeps will beckon with the promise of warm food and delightful drinks, a place by the fire, and information to help you find your bearings. The air is rife with the scent of the coastline, fishermen bringing in their haul from the day. Perhaps if you pay enough attention, you'll hear or smell something you recognize from your home; as Fellden is the beginning of all worlds, it wouldn't be an impossible likelihood! Those looking for something more exciting will find closer to the northern border of Kyst a rather curious bi-pedal cat bouncing on its back legs. It flags you down with a wave of its paw, asking excitedly if you'd like to flex your claws into a juicy quest. You're just the hunter for the job! Purr-fect in every way! Out in the wild lands there's a great beast in a deep river, and it's bothering all the people who live in the nearby town! They can't get fresh water or fish for their meals; it's furr-ightening! If you agree to help, the cat will explain that the creature is a Nokken that has been luring many a brave fisher to their untimely death. It must be removed either by force or by convincing it to leave! Help them, Hero-wan Kenobi, you're their meownly hope!

BEYOND THE CITIES. In the distance from Kyst, a large forest looms, the Gods Wood imposing even from this distance. Should you travel there, everyone you encounter will urge you to be respectful while within the forest. There, people can be found visiting intricately decorated shrines, and leaving offerings for their passed. If you catch their eye, they will beg of you to pay respects as well, and press a gold coin into your palm. Offer a wish or a happy memory to who you miss and place the coin into Death's offering bowl and there's a chance someone will be there to speak with you. Be mindful of your actions though; those that show disrespect will be forcibly removed from the Gods Wood by the trees. If the forest is too intimidating, Terebellum is open for semester registration, and the grounds are even more regal with a light dusting of snow all around. Students of all branches of magic can be found exploring the campus and practicing their craft. If you're lucky, perhaps you can find a teacher who will explain what is offered here at the University. But ah, there's a catch! Tuition is extremely expensive, so you must impress your faction leaders if you wish to widen your breadth of knowledge within these walls!

Comments

Hayley Marshall ( the originals ) stars

[increscents]

001 | THE SETTING STARS

( this place is clearly in mourning, which isn't really helping Hayley with her current coping issues. so instead of lingering around the sad looks begging for help, Hayley finds any tavern open and serving.

when the sun goes down. because apparently that's a thing she needs to worry about.

the bartender is kind enough to offer a drink, she guesses she looks like she needs it. but she doesn't offer much extra in conversation, and Hayley lets it go. at first. the longer she sits there, though, the more she realizes how quiet it's died around her. people move seats over, giving her a wide berth. ) Fine, I can take a hint.

( she gets up from her chair, taking her drink with her as she leaves the tavern entirely. surprisingly, no one stops her. the loss of the cup is worth it for the relaxing breath they all take when the Otherworlder clears the scene. Spotting another who clearly doesn't come from here, Hayley frowns at them. )

If you're looking to socialize, inside probably isn't your best bet. ( she approaches the little wall that separates the tavern's yard from the street, climbing onto it to sit down while she drinks in the cold. ) The beer's not bad, though. ( she shrugs. she supposes it depends on what matters most to you right now. )

002 | MARKETS OF THE COAST

( there's a cat talking to her.

Hayley is fairly positive she's not lost her mind- actually she hasn't ruled that out. this is a very strange cosmic event to be pulled into after all. the cat, though, really isn't helping her think this is anything more than a fever dream. )

All right... ( she draws out hesitantly, wide eyes still on the cat. ) I'll bite. ( she looks around for someone nearby that might be up for an adventure. and apparently "someone up for an adventure" is really just any Otherworlder that can confirm this cat is actually talking right now. )

Hey. You want to help out?

003 | BEYOND THE CITIES

( exploring the woods at night would be less creepy for the vampire if her abilities weren't so weakened. she feels exposed, the darkness nearly suffocating with the potential of danger. from the rumors she's heard, though, she has nothing to fear from the forest. so long as she means it no harm at least.

admittedly, she came her with intention. she doesn't find the shrines by any luck or chance. once she hears of Death and their realm, she seeks out some way of finding them. it's early, she's aware, but Hayley is accustomed to working on tight timelines. she doesn't waste seconds, being former immortal helping her realize those seconds are too precious to waste.

instead she finds the shrines mostly empty. most people don't venture out into the woods at night, but she has little other options to her. on her way out, and older woman presses a coin into Hayley's hand. genuinely, Hayley thanks her for the advice and the gift. one that she readily offers to the shrine. )

I don't know if you're... really listening. Or if you have better things to do. ( she folds her arms over her chest, holding herself as she mulls over her thoughts. ) But if you are out there, I could use some help. ( she bites her lip. ) Or maybe just some guidance...

( once she's finished, she kneels down to press her coin into the bowl before she speaks- ) You know it's rude to listen to someone's prayers.

004 | NETWORK

USERNAME: HAYLEY

Well this is definitely a strange situation to be in.

I guess I'm kind of curious here. It seems like there's two choices, but we weren't asked which side we wanted to be on.

So... does everyone really support the side they're on? Or are you just doing what you have to to get by?

005 | WILDCARD

( feel free to make a starter of your own or pm me with any questions! )

04 ; UN: SAINT-XIV

[perfectparadox]

Strange is an understatement! I will admit that I am not necessarily a fan of the idea of this, but it is at least good to know that there are others around that will fight for what is right,

[increscents]

I may have been underselling it a little with strange. ( or a lot. )

But you're right. At the end of the day, all I really want to do is what's right for the world(s). ( okay even saying that is strange. )

[perfectparadox]

That's the spirit! While the circumstances of being here are strange, the most important thing to remember is that there is much at stake and there is much good that can be done. It is only a shame that others have been brought in with the intent of stopping this good from happening.

[increscents]

That's kind of what I'm curious about. Do you agree with the decision of the side you ended up on?

3; beyond the cities

[illtemper]

[ He's not surprised she heard him. With instincts like hers, she'd have to. It's really only a surprise that she didn't acknowledge him sooner. ]

In all fairness, if it's guidance you want, you'd be better off asking the living.

[ A pause, and then a little smirk. ]

Or the closest thing to it, I suppose. I thought you knew better than to seek counsel from spirits, Hayley, given the trouble we've had from them.

[ He's wearing a tight smile. It's been two months since he's seen anyone from home, and even though he should be furious that she's here, he can't help being glad to see her.

Given the faction she's attached to, she ought to take advantage of it while it lasts. ]

[increscents]

( that's... not the voice she expected to hear. she turns around to face him, eyes wide as she takes him in. ) Klaus.

( and then seconds later she's throwing her arms around him, holding him tightly and unable to prevent the tears that start to fall. )

[illtemper]

[ She's --

Hugging him. And crying, which is even more shocking, if the first were not shocking enough. For a moment he's rendered entirely still.

Then, by rote, he puts his arms around her. He rubs her back, and then it registers with him that her hair is so much shorter than he remembers. Something is very wrong. Maybe multiple things. ]

I have you, Little Wolf.

[ His voice is soft, offering the kind of comfort that only family ever get from Klaus. ]

What's happened? Tell me.

[increscents]

( she's barely getting control of herself again when he asks that question. she swallows hard, leaning back to look in his face. he doesn't show the same sort of sorrow that she does on seeing her. it's too much of a disconnect- )

What do you mean, what's happened? You were there, you saw...

Do you not remember?

[felldennpc]

Even if I am the one your prayers are being directed to?

[ He's a curious sort, standing near the shrine but not quite so close to touch it. Posture perfect and expression even, Azrail is not so much imposing as he is unsettling, face holding little in the way of expression. One might find comfort in that, the stillness, while others may instead be perturbed. It's really a toss up how Hayley might feel. ]

Hello, lady Hayley.

[increscents]

Oh, shit. ( Hayley responds, taking a step back in surprise as Azrail appears. ) I... didn't think that would actually work. ( she blinks in surprise, relaxing as she adjusts to his presence.

The man before her has a rather somber look to him... it vaguely reminds her of...

someone she doesn't want to think about right now. ) Sorry about that... Lord Death? ( is that how we're doing things here? )

[felldennpc]

Lord Death is who I report to. You may call me Azrail, I am but a...facet of Death. Its way of relating to mortals or mortal-like beings.

[ A vague call-out that he knows what she is without outright stating. ]

You seek guidance from Death?

un: mitsuri

[lovesword]

not everyone
some people don't trust the leaders at all
not me though! i think the emperor is trying to do the right thing

[increscents]

I'd hope they're both trying to do the right thing. They just can't unfortunately both be right.

What makes you think the Emperor might be?

04 | un: clary

[enkelis]

As someone who has been on both sides of this place, I'm more supportive of the one I'm currently on. Saving the world sounds better than just blowing the whole popsicle stand.

[increscents]

It's funny because now that's one on each side.

Though it sounds like you've had a little more experiences with both ends. You really think the Priestess has the better answer?

4; u/n: LOUIS

[coagulant]

I take it you're new around here too.

There's word around these parts that the leaders of either side aren't taking too well to people within their factions that haven't integrated their beliefs into them internally.

Of course, it's hard to know what you're fighting for without knowing why you're fighting for it. I err on the side of caution, which is what I'm guessing you're doing as well, judging from your tone.

[increscents]

( that's a mouthful of an answer, but she gets the gist of it. )

If that's true I can't imagine that wins them a lot of loyalty quickly. Then again, some people prefer to work with fear.

But yeah, you'd be right. It doesn't sit well with me we didn't get to choose which side we wanted to believe in. If they wanted a war, they should have let us choose them. Not choose us without our input.

[coagulant]

[LISTEN.... he's from the 2050s, so there were probably entire classes at university dedicated to dissecting emoji literature at great metaphorical detail. but he opted out of those electives.]

Loyalty seems to be compulsory around here.

I imagine they had some way of knowing who we were before we agreed to come, and we were placed with the side that most resonates with our personality. But taking choice away from someone and asking them to make sacrifices is not an easy sell.

Where'd you end up?

un: hope

[tribrid]

Call me untrustworthy, but I don't trust any side, ever.

They haven't really earned that right yet.

[increscents]

( well she's run into Klaus.... )

Your name wouldn't happen to be Hope Mikaelson, would it?

[tribrid]

Only if your name is Hayley Marshall, but that's not possible.

Right?

004 | un: nero

[devilfisted]

yeah. keeping secrets from the start is always a great sign.

you feeling like you got approached by the wrong god?

[increscents]

Just wouldn't mind a little more hard evidence of which plan is actually going to work.

So far they're both theories with little backing. At least, from what I've gathered.

[devilfisted]

hard evidence? yeah, i'm getting the feeling this place isn't up for sharing notes which isn't the best recruiting strategy.