{ test drive #07 - august 2022 }

[dreamposts]

✵ TEST DRIVE MEME: AUGUST ✵

A reminder that our Test Drive Memes double as an Intro Log and threads can be carried over in-game, which means all content is forward dated to the first week of the app month. They are also required for samples. Special note! Next month marks our first year anniversary and we'll be holding a special little event to celebrate. As such, this test drive is directly connected to its preparation.

Refer to the Game Info for general information and feel free to toss any TDM related questions here. Reserves are open and Applications open on September 1st. Our application cycles are bi-monthly so the next cycle won't be until November.

I. WELCOME TO SONGEREIN

Upon "arriving" into Songerein, everyone is understandably confused. The first thought would be they must be in a dream, which makes sense since the last thing they might remember doing is falling asleep or losing some form of consciousness or awareness before opening their eyes and finding themselves in the Plaza of some strange town they've never seen before. But there are a lot of other people around, some that may look familiar but others so strange that it would be impossible for their own imagination to dream up. And they're all just as confused. Fortunately, a red tapir-like creature appears and introduces itself as Solei, one of the "keepers" of this place. It offers some explanation before letting everyone explore their new "home." [Reminder: Other people aside from the characters will also appear to act as filler NPCs so keep in mind that new groups are at least double the size. Players are also free to be creative and come up with any kind of creature or animal their characters might encounter. The only limitations are they must be small to medium in size and not be overly aggressive as the creatures within the town are mostly passive, just wary of the new arrivals.]

A. Magic Journals. Everyone will find a journal stylized just for them on their person somewhere and it's the primary means of communication with everyone. The only limitation is that it's text only, but images can be magically imprinted on the page from the writer's mind. Might as well give it a whirl and see who all is out there.

B. Dreamotion Abilities. Although everyone maintains most of their original abilities while in Songerein, they are also capable of using special abilities based on dreamotion energy. From having their emotions affecting the environment to utilizing new abilities entirely, it's probably something that they should start familiarizing fairly quickly. Especially since all the emotional surprise and confusion may already be affecting things, such as random glass shattering or cracks forming at one's feet.

C. Exploring Town. The town of Reverein is small but still sizable as it continues to grow, so walking around and to see what all there is might be a good idea. Many shops and businesses are popping up all the time and most necessities can be found. Although gold coins have been introduced, bartering is still the main method of purchasing and many retailers will waive first time purchases for newcomers. The population is still much smaller than the town itself, so there are still plenty of homes and buildings that are free to claim, and some may still need a bit of cleaning and renovating. Venturing out of the town to the fields and the Wildlands beyond is fine, though many would recommend having an expert accompanying them when going to the Wildlands.

D. Dreambucks Cafe. As a way to welcome their new inhabitants as well as give them a nice, cool refreshment after all the work they will be doing, the tapirs will call everyone's attention to a certain cafe back at the Plaza. Called Dreambucks, it's a quaint little cafe staffed by friendly tea fairies and primarily serves refreshing drinks and small cakes. Specializing in teas, their products are quite special as the flavor will influence one's emotions and dreams—but in a good way! There are no harmful side effects and they are usually positive. Bolstering one's spirit; calming or relaxing nerves. The tea fairies want everyone to enjoy their time. Anyone can pick whichever table they want to take a break and meet some people. Or take a peek at what someone might be dreaming thanks to the teas.

There are three different types of teas available:

Cloud Coffee. A cup of hot coffee with a cloud of sugar floating above it. The steam from the coffee melts the sugar, causing a subtly sweet "rain" of syrup to pour into the cup. Drinking the coffee brings whimsical and playful feelings, not unlike wanting to dance in the rain. (Thanks to dreammotion magic, the melted sugar does not make a huge mess of the cup like it would otherwise…)
Melon Soda. Bright green and fizzy, this drink tastes like late summer and makes one feel mellow and a bit lazy. Dreamers who come from worlds with things like school and summer vacation may recognize the sense of holding onto summer relaxation for as long as possible.
Peach Tea. Black tea brewed with dried peaches and other fruits to create a light and fruity flavor. Drinking this makes one feel like chatting, either with a friend or a stranger, about the “good old days.” Available hot or iced.

Although it doesn't always happen, sometimes the tea will be a strong enough influence that it will make the drinker daydream for a bit. Anyone nearby may notice their dream crystal lantern flicker and catch a brief glimpse of the daydream on it. Or perhaps those who want to try out their dream crystal lanterns are deliberately trying to see if their dreams are captured. Only daydreams influenced by the tea can be caught and even then it's just a brief glimpse, but it's still an interesting way to see how the dream crystal lanterns work.

Note: Although gold coins have been introduced, everything served is free for newcomers as a welcome gift. However it might not be immediately obvious and the fairies won't mind if customers repay in some way, be it helping out via cleaning and serving, giving gifts such as flowers or fruits, or something else.

II. LOCAL PROMPTS

It's never a dull moment in Reverein and in the surrounding areas. Whether it's fulfilling a job from the latest Dream Board or something else going on, there's always something to do. In this case, as Reverien approaches its first anniversary, locals and Dreamers alike are preparing for a Renaissance Faire sort of festival to celebrate! Currently dubbed "Dream Faire" (name pending, Faire for short), it won't be until later in the month, but there's a lot of work that needs to be done ahead of the festival itself, and there's no shortage of ways for new arrivals to help. Sponsored and funded by the leprechauns and their strangely vast amount of gold and treasure, everyone is ready to pull out all the stops!

A. Plaza Cleanup. Debris from all the wind from last month has built up in the Plaza, so the first order of business is to clean it up so that vendors can begin setting up their booths. Some of what needs to be cleaned out can be used to build booths: driftwood, bits of fabric, an especially cool looking rock, etc. Other items, however, may have traces of dreammotion energy in them that can have some surprising (if ultimately harmless) effects. One predominant effect is floating in the air and causing freak mini thunderstorms in the area. Be careful!

B. Bedazzlepalooza. The directions given for decorating ahead of the Faire is "MAKE IT SPARKLE," and people in town are taking that quite literally. It's a great way to show how far this once run down ghost town has turned into such a bustling, lively town! Items all over, large and small, are being coated entirely in gold and jewels. A magic device that shoots out small jewels and glitter to stick everywhere has been created to help. Perhaps one would like to join in making everything bright and shiny? Or perhaps someone was unfortunate enough to have a personal belonging (or entire self) become bedazzled by a zealous decorator.

1. Stop, Thief! Of course, having such a large amount of valuables out in the open like this attracts unsavory sorts who will try to gather whatever gold and jewels they can and run off. Keep them from getting away with their ill-gotten bounty!
   
   
2. Ornate Eggs. Beautifully decorated eggs are sometimes seen rolling loosely around, especially near high concentration of gold and jewelry. Many in particular can be seen rolling near the Bank of Leprechaun. Locals recognize these eggs from their holiday decorations the past winter and think someone must have lost a crate to try and use for decoration. Collect the eggs to either put away or to add to the decorations. Careful, some of them get strangely hot when moved away from the jewels and may even zap those around them. How strange.

C. Costuming. No good Faire is without its costumes! Madame Blackbird and other clothiers around town are hard at work putting those costumes together and the theme will be fairytale fantasy. As a result, there are many commissions available for gathering unique materials that can be woven into cloth or used to decorate jewelry and accessories from the Wildlands and beyond. Glistening scales from rainbow fish, shedded wings of pixies and dragonflies, hide of a minotaur, threads from the ghoul worms, flowers overflowing with nectar to attract butterflies so they can stay on the clothes—some will be easier to find than others.

1. Modeling. For those less inclined to leave town in search of bits and baubles, tailors also need willing (or less-than-willing) models for their costumes. Just stand outside the shop in full costume and try to convince passers-by to come in and have one made, maybe even get into the character or theme of the costume. Hopefully it's not too hot as the heat is still ongoing. While the theme is consistent, with all the different cultures there are various different…interpretations, some quite stylish, others not so. That medieval knight may look more like a Roman gladiator, or that princess is fully decked out in jewelry…mostly jewelry with little fabric (oh my). In addition, some may find themselves stuck in their outfits and will need assistance in changing out of them.

D. Faire Food Preparations. It's going to be a grand feast, one that will outdo the town's first feast the fae had provided them when they first arrived. But in order to do that, the chefs will need special ingredients and foods.

1. The Great Emu Turkey Leg War. Turkey legs are a popular item at these kinds of events, and a farmer on the outskirts of town who raises turkeys has offered to provide the animals. For obvious reasons, the turkeys themselves are not terribly fond of this plan and have escaped. Some of them even found little army helmets to put on their heads as they scampered off. The farmer has put out a request to catch the animals and bring them back alive (please and thank you). Dreamers are free to take the request or to join the turkeys in their fight against becoming future food.
   
   
2. Fairy Tale Fruits and Veggies. Other farms that are focused on produce have also requested help in harvesting crops ahead of the festival. These commissions include, but are not limited to:
   
   
   • Beefsteak tomatoes that are comically large in size (might take a few people to lift them). If one cuts into them, will it be a tomato or will it have meat inside…?
     
   • Dragonfruit that may or may not shoot a tiny puff of fire at whoever is attempting to pick it.
     
   • Starfruit that will glitter and float away if left unattended for too long.
     
   • Corn that asks you for the hottest gossip (for its ears to listen to, you see).
   
   Players are also encouraged to come up with their own strange and silly fruits and vegetables in their prompts.
   

III. DREAMSCAPE TUTORIAL

Instead of being created by the Tapirs, the Bank of Leprechaun is sponsoring a special "dreamscape dive." After extensive research, a special dreamscape has been created to find special treasures that can be found and brought out of the dreamscape to add to the Faire. There are a few challenges dreamwalkers will have to get through, but they assure everyone it's completely "safe" and it'll be good practice for exercising one's dreamotion abilities. And should anyone hear strange roars, the ground rumbling, or strange large shadows…don't worry it's fine.

A. Up the Beanstalk. Upon entering the dreamscape, everyone will find themselves at the bottom of what looks to be a large beanstalk growing against an even larger cliffside. The location of the treasure is in a castle gilded completely in gold situated near the top, and the only way is up. Flying is one way to do it should anyone be capable, but there are large leaves and vines that can serve as pathways. Perhaps one can try to use dreamotion to make the leaves move as a kind of elevator. Not too many threats on the way to the top, except maybe giant flies that buzz around. They won't attack, but the drafts from their wings could easily knock someone off balance. Maybe one could try hitching a ride to fly up.

B. Sticky Hands. Once at the top, a few leprechauns are there waiting in front of the giant steps to help guide everyone inside through a small, opening crack by the giant doors. Of course they're not going in, just giving some instructions and warnings. One big one is the fact that once anyone enters the castle, their hands will become super sticky. For anything non-treasure, it will take some force but they can pry their hands apart. However, the moment they touch any kind of treasure or artifact within the castle, the item will be stuck until they exit the dreamscape via finding a shining crystal and using any kind of dreamotion to activate it. Fortunately they are commonly found…after clearing the trap.

C. Clearing Traps. It's going to start feeling like a real castle raid. Treasure is found quite easily as there are many rooms and chambers filled to the brim with rare gems, jewelry, accessories, ornate weapons, gilded tomes, mirrors, and other artifacts one might expect to find in a treasure trove. However, there is only one way in and the moment anything is picked up, the path changes. Floors suddenly disappear, one door becoming four, tiles lit up into different colors, walls closing in, arrows flying from all directions, mannequins wielding fire and—the classic boulder run. Without hands it'll be more difficult to deal with, but dreamotion will be very effective and can be used to get past the traps. Once cleared, the shining crystal will appear and once activated they will wake up with the item in their arms. Turn it in or keep it!

It's not like these treasures belonged to anyone…right?

Comments

TDM QUESTIONS

[dreamkeepers]

Any questions about the TDM prompts or setting can go here!

Mikaela Hyakuya | Owari no Seraph

[cravingdesires]

Welcome to Songerein

i. magic journals

Sender: Mikaela Hyakuya

If anyone has seen a teen named Yuichiro Hyakuya, tell him Mikaela is looking for him. And if he's doing something stupid, tie him up until I get there. I guess if anyone else from the same world is here, they could respond too.

Thanks.

ii. dreambucks

[ Technically, Mikaela doesn't need food or water in order to survive - just desires of others. The bright green color of the melon soda reminded him of Yuu and the more he drinks, the more he wants to sit at the cafe and enjoy the moment. It's been such a long time since the teen felt this carefree, memories of being back in the orphanage with all of his siblings and those days they didn't learn.

He takes in a deep breath and closes his eyes, sinking into the warm feeling that no longer truly exists in their apocalyptic world. ]

Local Prompts

iii. modeling

[ Mikaela doesn't know how it happened, but he's been roped into modeling some of the costume pieces that are being offered for sale. Hands pushed fabric in his direction and then ushered him to a changing area. When he emerges, it's in a princely outfit and the owner of the shop settles the confused teen outside to bring in customers. ]

Lots of pushy humans here, too.

iv. fairy tale fruits and veggies

[ Collecting fruits and vegetables is a better task than chasing down turkeys, so that's where Mikaela goes. He currently is picking starfruit, glaring at the items while they still sit on their vine. There's already glitter in his hair and dusting his clothes, his basket in one hand with a few that's he collected and had to capture again when they escaped.]

Is the food here always so lively?

[ He's definitely grumpy. ]

Dreamscape Tutorial

v. clearing traps

[ Mikaela is keeping his hands to himself, preferring to let whoever might be with him pick up the treasure. Blue eyes scan the area for any sign of trouble, or for the giant who may live here. His feet aren't even touching the floor, which is probably a good thing when it goes out underneath him.

The blond will be floating there, a quick hand having reached out to grab the arm of the other person's. ]

That's probably our cue to leave before more trouble finds us.

Wildcard

[ If there's anything else you'd like to do, toss it at me. Tsukeru ]

Clearing traps

[leveillpier]

[ The ground collapsing beneath the her wasn't anything new at this point. Alisaie knew at some point the practice would be placed into use. Even if she couldn't float the way Mikaela did, she certainly was attentive when arrows were fired at them and while one arm is grabbed, the other created a flimsy shield with her dreamotion that was strong enough to the arrows.

Don't mind her iron grip as she hung around! ]

I couldn't agree more. These trinkets aren't worth our lives, I'd say.

[ she didn't want to owe anyone anything, thus her own actions to help her current travel companion ]

Loki Laufeyson/Odinson | Marvel Cinematic Universe |OTA

[whose_son_am_i]

Arrival
Dreamotion Abilities
His emotions had not steadied with the explanation of 'where' he was, given to him by the creature named Solei. The last thing Loki remembered was losing consciousness as the life was choked from him, and the familiar and sickening feeling of disappointing his brother. Any outward calm he had though, he was maintaining through willpower.

As he moved to explore though his new abilities gave the lie to his calm; cracks were appearing on the sidewalk around him.

Preparing for Faire
Costuming
Loki felt there was a line between glamourous and garish--and the whole faire was...close to it. He hadn't decided which it was yet, other than that it hurt his eyes with all the sparkle. He wasn't going to participate in that, but the idea of clothing? That intrigued him. What kind of costumes? How could he help? Could he model? He'd be delighted to model! Could he design some of the costumes?

This might be the most excited he's been in a while. If he's going to be here, he might as well make the most of it, right? It beats being dead.

Dreamscape Tutorial
Dreamscape Dive--Up the Beanstalk
"I think I know this tale..." Loki murmured to himself, gazing up at the giant beanstalk. Still, his curiosity usually did win over his common sense. Not that he was looking forward to the climb--what he wouldn't give for a means to fly right then.

Wildcard
Got an idea? Hit me up.

Costuming

[grandduchess_anya]

Anya has been hauling in some fabrics, threads, embellishments, and clothes that she and the people working at Madame Blackbird’s to showcase to any interested customers and make some clothes on the spot. The busy Grand Duchess has juggling plenty of things lately even after her Oz dreamshift adventure: she has been preparing for her talent show stint at the Theatre House and making clothes for the Faire. Sewing in rainbow scales, flowers, discarded wings onto each piece of clothing is not easy, but she still wants to make the best of each clothes for the event and impress Madame Blackbird as usual.

Pooka meanwhile has been patiently checking in with the progress as he watches his master and her co-workers busy at work. The little dog cheerfully barks on for support.

Childe | Genshin Impact

[monoceroscaeli]

💧II. Local Prompts

B1- Stop, thief!

[It's not hard for the Harbinger to admit that seeing everything go up in sparkly treasure is really cool. Splendid is the word he'd use for it, the sights of it all really coming together for the faire that's happening soon. Honestly, he can't wait. It'll be fun, maybe he'll even get to pick a fight with one of the "knights" during one of the shows.

He can insert himself into it, right?

But for now, he'll just have his fun taking everything in as they decorate, until he sees someone just up and swipe what looks like some really expensive stuff. Some who've seen the crime yell, and Childe only laughs- looks like he'll get to have some fun today after all. Rolling his shoulder once, the Harbinger smirks, and to anyone near him who looks like they want to stop the thief, he says-]

Haha, try to keep up!

[Time to show off.]

C1- Costuming

[He definitely got duped into this.

At first, it was fine. He was curious, walked in, and the tailor was very enthusiastic to see this gentleman walk into their store. Excitedly, they'd put Childe in something they felt suited him, though the Harbinger wasn't exactly looking for something to buy, just wanted to see what was in the shop. But the tailor said he could have the costume for free! What he didn't mention is that he'd have to work for it. He never even got the chance to protest.

This very confused ginger is standing outside of this tailor's shop now, looking a little warm as he tries to get people's attention to come in and get something made for themselves. This won't be for long, he might try for twenty minutes before he gets bored and doesn't want to do this anymore. So he thinks of a way to make it entertaining for himself. The deal is:]

Beat me in a sparring match and I'll see what I can do to get you a free costume.

[Of course, that plan probably isn't going to shake out well. Probably gunna get yelled at, honestly. So perhaps you're catching him while he debates on whether or not he should just leave, with the costume on. His military outfit isn't even this warm, and Childe is sweating under all the fur in this heat. Listen, he's from a cold place and the man needs a glass of water or something.]

💧 III. Dreamscape Tutorial

B. Sticky Hands

[Of course, he doesn't notice it at first. The sight of all the treasure is incredible. There's a spark of the little kid that used to get told all those wondrous stories of adventure from his father in his eyes, but the cunning Snezhnayan knows that all is not what it seems.

But look at these rooms. Full of treasure, all for the taking.]

Hmmmm, I wonder what the catch is?

[His hand falls onto your shoulder, but it seems that Childe can't...remove it, not easily.]

Ah, I see. One moment, brace yourself so I can see if I can pull us apart...

C. Clearing Traps

[Now that he understands the danger in how their hands work, it's time to test out his theory. It's not like he hasn't heard tons of stories. You pick up a piece of treasure, the whole place either starts to crumble around you or there are traps in place to kill you.]

Don't touch anything. It may look like something that you'd like, but the real prize is at the end.

[Whatever that prize is supposed to be. It would be a shame if it were nothing at all, but shouldn't there be one? He's a patient man, he's willing to get to the end first and find the real treasure. But will his partner be able to keep themselves from taking something?

Or maybe it's an accident...something Childe wasn't counting on.]

💧 Wildcard

[I'm down for any of the prompts, if you'd rather do one I didn't write for go for it. You can find me over at bucketsofbeans if you have any questions!

Also, I was on the TDM last time- if you want to continue CR from then, just let me know, or we can start fresh instead!]

C1

[demonicbookworm]

[Ruca wanders around, shyly peeking at every place that happens to be in his path. It's fairly easy to catch his interest, considering how new everything is to him. The tailor is another such place... and this is when he's spoken to.

The boy's eyes widen and he quickly takes a step back, hands in front of himself as if in defence.]

A-a sparring? I-I apologize but I believe I wouldn't be much of a challenge for you!! [He looks down to the ground, clearly troubled.] I wouldn't want anyone to get hurt either...

[The last statement is a bit strange considering Ruca's previous words, but if one takes closer look at the boy, they surely will notice a huge sword that he carries on his back. Truth to be told, while Ruca is hesitant and meek, the power he holds far exceeds that of any ordinary human. He's unsure how people would react to it, too. Back in Ruca's world people like him are feared and locked in laboratories or forced into army. Would it be any different here? It is all a dream, after all...

The boy realizes that he's losing himself in his thoughts again, so he quickly peers back at the man, trying to check his reaction... And that's when he notices that the other's clothing is far too warm for the current weather. Any fear or nervousness instantly vanishes from Ruca's face, replaced by pure concern.]

Are you okay? That costumes seems... very warm.

umi ryuuzaki | magic knight rayearth | ota

[summonceles]

i. magic journals

Sender: Umi Ryuuzaki
Hello? This can't seriously be working...can it? A journal that other people can read? That can't be-- ...and what the heck is the point of that, huh?! Journals are supposed to be private!

Anyway... geez, this feels so weird. My name is Umi Ryuuzaki. Um. Nice to meet you?...weird journal.

Hikaru? Fuu? Are you here?

ii. i wanna be a supermodel (local, modeling)

[Umi isn't sure how the heck she got roped into this, but here she is, standing in front of this weird costume shop in a blue gown in order to...model...it for people?? She looks uncomfortable, a soft frown etched in her features. After a few minutes of standing and posing, she exhales, relaxing a bit.]

This is way harder than it looks! Especially in this weird getup -- how the heck are you supposed to move in this thing, anyway?

[As if to prove her point, she takes a few steps in the dress, immediately trips over the hem and goes flying into an unfortunate passerby.]

Augh!! This is impossible!

iii. when it rains, it pours (local, fairytale fruits)

[When Umi heard the term "cloudberry," she wasn't sure what to expect...but a teeny-tiny cloud at the end of each stem wasn't exactly it. She makes a surprised noise, curiously leaning down and hesitantly poking at one of them.]

If I didn't know this place was a dream before, this really seals the deal. I've never seen-- ack! [That "ack!" came from the fact that this particular little cloudberry just zapped her with a teeny-tiny bolt of lightning.] Why you-- Take this!

[She picks the offending cloudberry...which then begins raining in her hand.]

 I just can't win with you, can I?

iv. up up and away (dreamotion, beanstalk)

[Just when she thought it couldn't get any weirder...! Well, serves her right for thinking that just wouldn't be possible. Umi now finds herself at the foot of a beanstalk whose leaves are as big as a bed, if not bigger, and now she's faced with the awkward question of:]

... Just how the heck am I supposed to climb this?!

[Well. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, I guess. She still doesn't get the idea of this dreamotion stuff, so she sidelines that idea (someone's missing the point of a tutorial) and just goes at it with brute force. In this case, "brute force" means grabbing onto the stem of the leaf above her and bodily climbing up, no small feat. The Struggle is Real, and it shows in the annoyed expression on her face.]

wildcard
[lay it on me!]

ii

[cravingdesires]

[ As someone who was also roped into modeling, he can understand why someone would be upset at the choice of their costume. Somehow, Mikaela got lucky that his turned out to be similar to his own clothing.

He watches the girl pose for a little while, then attempt to walk only to fall flat on her face. ]

Maybe lift the hem in the front? That dress probably was supposed to be for someone a little taller, or fixed to tailor the buyer.

[ Does he move to help her up? Nope. ]

Yuma Ilvern | Shining Resonance Refrain | OTA

[reluctantradiance]

[ Dreamotion/Exploring Town ]

[ Yuma is no stranger to magic. It's not quite his forte - he tends to leave the heavier spellcasting to Rinna and Kirika - but he has several tricks up his sleeve and isn't startled by the strange effects it can cause. Dreamotion, however, is a completely different beast. So far, it just seems to happen on its own. Not that Yuma has noticed it happening around him...not quite yet, anyway. ]

I wonder if everyone's okay...

[ He's merely wandering town for now, getting used to his new surroundings and taking everything in. Although he knows there's little to be anxious about, it's hard not to worry about things back home just a little bit. Still, something about this place puts him at ease. He isn't sure what... Maybe it's something about the people? Nobody seems to be paying him that much mind, at least not more than most other people. Yuma doesn't notice, but his footsteps are leaving tracks of pure light behind him. The spots linger for a moment, letting out a soft, barely-audible chime when he steps, before they form into particles and rise into the air before disappearing. Despite the tracks vanishing fairly quickly, the trail is long enough to be easily noticed, so he's not hard to track down. ]


[ Plaza Cleanup ]

[ Eager to help with the festivities, Yuma has decided to help clean up the plaza. He's made quite the sizeable pile of driftwood off to the side, and now he's starting to clean up some of the rocks. It wouldn't do if someone tripped over even the smaller ones, right? ]

Huh?

[ It's then that he notices a very peculiar glowing rock. He picks it up, inspects it...

...and abruptly, the rock lets out a bright flash, causing Yuma to stumble back and drop it. There are still a few sparkles lingering in the air, but Yuma is too busy being startled to notice anything. ]

GAH! W-What was that?!

[ Sorry if he bumps into you. Or blinded you along with himself. He didn't mean to, honest! ]


[ Up The Beanstalk ]

[ Normally, Yuma would forego a day's worth of climbing and simply fly up to the top of the beanstalk. But he's not a harpy anymore, and the only other way to fly is in his dragon form. Which, under normal circumstances, he wouldn't dare do out of fear of losing control. But it seems the dreamscape chose for him, and he's been transformed into his dragon form anyway. The restrained version, fortunately, and it's a bit smaller than it is normally, but it's more than enough to get him off the ground.

But even a dragon can't fly forever, and Yuma has found himself perched partway up the beanstalk to catch his breath and regain his strength. So, if you climb up onto that leaf, don't be surprised if you see a dragon hanging out. Don't worry, he's still friendly! He might stare at you a bit, though. ]


[ Wildcard ]

[ \o/ ]

UP the Beanstalk --- A DRAGON!!! *mun squeeing rn*

[whose_son_am_i]

[Loki had been trying to learn this new 'dreammotion' stuff, but it wasn't easy. Then again, if it were easy anyone would do certain things right? So far he hasn't managed to do more than long jumps though. Jumping up from leaf to leaf, with an occasional climb.

He's startled though, when his next leap brings him up onto a leaf and there's a dragon perched there. Oh... A moment, and it's not acting hostile, so he grins at it.]

A very handsome dragon you are. Are you one of the residents or...?

Y'shtola Rhul || Final Fantasy XIV (6.1 compliant - Warning for potential spoilers)

[notyournhaama]

Arrival in Songerein - Exploring the Town/Dreambucks

[Y'shtola had spent some time talking with Solei about what was going on. She was interested in how people were being brought to this world. Upon learning what she could, she took the journal and began to wander around. She wished that she could see the world around her like the others did. She walked with the confidence of someone who could see, but she could not see the physical world. She could see the aether that made up everything, though the aether that was here was quite different from what was in Eorzea.

She paused for a moment in front of the Dreambucks cafe. A snack and a drink sounded good. She could use something to eat after waking up in this place. She found the idea of Cloud Coffee rather amusing and ordered one of those along with a bit of cake to eat while she looked through the journal that she was given.]


Local Prompts
Stop, Thief!

[The situtation was almost comical. Y'shtola sighed as she heard someone yell about a thief that ran off with something that was worth a lot to somone. She had been idly wandering around, trying to get a feeel of the town when someone tried to be stupid. She didn't think that a spell would be a good idea in a crowded place. She would end up destroying a few stalls and probably hurting a few innocent bystanders as well.

Sighing, Y'shtola summoned her staff and did something that any good mage would never do. She swung it at the person running down the road, catching them in their gut.]

I do believe those items you are carrying do not belong to you.

[She held her staff in one hand as she looked down at the supposed thief.]


Modeling

I am afraid that you do not understand me.

[Y'shtola's ears were folded back as she stood in front of the costume shop with her arms crossed over her chest. She was not amused and was about ready to try and teleport away if the shop keep was going to keep insisting on having her model something for him.]

I cannot see the beauty of your craftsmanship. I would be a poor model for whatever you might have in mind.

[She was lucky that Tataru had been able to craft her some outfits while they were back in Mor Dhona. She fixed the shopkeeep with her silver gaze. She hoped that the shopkeeper would be able to tell that she had lost her sight long ago.]

Dreamscape Tutorial - Clearing Traps

[Clearing traps was something that Y'shtola could easily do. They appeared different to her and she could easily tell when a door had changed or when something had been triggered to send projectiles towards them. A quick spell was able to take care of most of the projectiles, she couldn't do a lot about the floors vanishing. She hadn't bothered to ask G'raha Tia about that spell he had used from the Tower of Zot.]

Watch yourself.

[She glanced around the room that she had entered, seeing things beyond the walls and floor.]

There are triggers in the floor.

Clearing Traps

[whose_son_am_i]

[Loki had picked up quickly who was likely to do what while they explored. It was a nice change to also work with others who had brains as well as those who just charged in. He'd kept himself mostly towards the back, studying as they went. Looking for patterns, hints of how the magic worked, anything to help make this task easier.]

Weight triggers are most likely. I can trip them from here, if they don't reset after. Have we seen any of these before?

Paimon | Genshin Impact

[notemergencyfood]

I. Plaza Cleanup:
[Oh no. The plaza is a mess, it's delaying the vendors which means... the food vendors will be late for preperations! This looks like a job for---- someone else. Which is why there is a random floating person scouting around, hand over her eyes, trying to glance as far as her eyes can see. While Paimon is scouting for recruitments to help clean this mess and get this party rolling, there is a bit of traffic in the air. Paimon is ducking and maneuvering around to avoid any hazards like a fly escaping from certain death.]

Wha-! Woah! HEY! Is there an umbrella for this kind of thing?

[Maybe she's joking or possibly serious, it's hard to tell. Phew, Paimon ducks just in time before being plastered on the face. There is a satisfying smug, hands on her hips from her dodging success.]

Ha! Take that you--

[Suddenly there is a rain pour over her head, soaking the poor thing from top to bottom. Her hair is flat and dripping like an angry kitten. Paimon's smug happens to wash away with the rain. What happens to be over her head is a plank acting like... a rain cloud?]

Seriously?

[Even better, this drifting piece of wood is following her, still pouring.]

Does anyone know how to turn this piece of wood off?

[Someone. Please.]

II. Costuming:

[Paimon doesn't quite remember how she was roped into this, but here she is, dressed as a small enchanting frog. For the record, this isn't a mascot! Promotion, get it. She was asked nicely not to fly during promotion, to stay in character. Well, if it helps her increase in some pay and food sampling, maybe this isn't a bad idea. Paimon puts on her cheering expression, one arm reaching high.]

Excuse me? Sir? Hell~O! Down here!! [Seriously... this is why she hates being grounded.]

It's festival time! Where's your costume?

III. Up the Beanstalk!

So... all we have to do is go up there?

[She asks with her head tilting up to the sky. That beanstalk seems endless. Now to her temporary partner.]

Woah, one miss step, and that's it.

[First, what step? Second, did she forget this is a dream? Probably.]

Don't worry, we got this in the beanbag.

[Paimon smiles with encouragement, her index finger dancing in the air.]

Come on! The treasure is waiting for us.

[Paimon is so eager, she's drifting herself towards the beanstalk ready to ... heh, take flight. She's waving her partner over her, what can possibly go wrong here?]

IV Wildcard:

[PM if you like something else.]

Beanstalk

[donfire]

[Ace is watching the little girl talk and smiles. She looks super cute!]

Wait, there's treasure?!

[Ah... A pirate even in a dream.]

What are you waiting for, let's go!

[Turning to fire would be a Very Bad Idea, so Ace starts climbing as a normal human being would, with his hand and feet. This is gonna take a while.]

Mercedes von Martritz | Fire Emblem: Three Houses

[pathihavechosen]

[Quick ooc note, I haven't finished Three Hopes yet, so she's still OG Canon Mercie.]

Dreambucks Cafe

[Well, this place might be a bit strange to arrive in, but the residents didn't seem to be mean, or attacking her. So, she'd wandered a bit through the town, she found a little cafe that seemed to be serving tea... something she found familiar.

Stopping at the cafe, she ordered one of the Peach Teas. Not exactly something she could have at home, but close enough. Then, she took a seat at one of the nearby tables to do some people watching, and maybe see if anyone would sit and chat. Either way, it was nice to have a rest from wandering about.]

Costuming / Modeling

[Considering that Mercedes has sewing experience, she'll be found volunteering with Madame Blackbird and the clothiers to help track things down and put costumes together for the Faire. Part of the time she can be found at the commissions list figuring out what she can retrieve.]

[The other part she can be found modeling some of the costumes that are put together. She can currently be found in a princess costume, jewels and fabric included, trying to convince people to stop by the closet clothier to get their own outfit made. Maybe she even entices your character!]

Please, if you like what you see, step inside, you can get a similar outfit made for yourself!

Clearing Traps

[This... may not have been her smartest idea. She didn't have the best control of her Dream abilities yet, and her Gremory powers weren't working as well as they did at home. At least though, she could still run, and run she did, even being chased by a boulder. Even out of breath, she's going to turn to the person with her.]

Is this normal for this kind of thing?

Wildcard

[Hit me up if you have any other ideas or want to do any other prompts! I can be caught on this journal, plurk at penguinknitter or Discord at WAR PENGUIN#2870]

Dreambucks

[senorita_perfecta]

(Isabela definitely deserves a break after running around doing errands in town. So a nice stop at Dreambucks is quite relaxing as she gets inside the cafe, tagging along with is her capybara who is amazed by the scenery of the place itself.

After doing a quick check on the menu itself, she eventually settled for Cloud Coffee and the floating sugar cloud is a really nice touch to the drink; she also got a nice dainty cheesecake to go with the coffee. She then gives the fairies running it flower arrangements she has made as test runs for the upcoming talent show. As she walks around to find a place to sit with the capybara following beside her, she could tell that the place is getting to fill up with people.

It didn’t took long for her to approach Mercedes’ table and, with more customers entering, decides to ask her if she wants to share a table with her.)

Oh hey there. Is it okay if I can share this table with you?

Blitzø | Helluva Boss

[impboss]

I. WELCOME TO SONGEREIN
Magic Journals

listen up everyone

are we supposed to stay here for the long haul?

i have a business back home and and i guess it'll be fine based on what those pigs said but

why is there no internet

is there internet?

please don't tell me we're stuck in the past with these books

can anyone even read this?

Dreamotion Abilities

[ Imps don't come with a ton of fancy abilities like other demons except for perhaps being flameproof, but since this world was so kind to provide him with an opportunity to expand his skillset, he figures what the hell.

Blitz starts small and finds a twig. He strikes an elegant pose and thinks FLY!!! really hard at it. It doesn't move. Not even a twitch. It doesn't even roll over.

Frustrated that it didn't immediately work and assuming that the tapirs lied to him, he kicks the twig which sparks a small fire on one of the leaves. Because Blitz is delighted by this turn of events, the fire goes out in about three seconds. He groans loudly, frustrated again, and the smoke comes back. ]

Nobody move. I swear I'll cut off your leg and shove it down your throat if you so much as--

[ And the smoke goes out. ]

BREATHE!! Dammit!!

II. LOCAL PROMPTS
Bedazzlepalooza

[ Blitz may not be an artist, and he may not necessarily want to help these weirdos, but he's down for arts and crafts. With no care toward what the theme of the decorations even is, he carves a large wooden board into what resembles a horse. He paints it black with red eyes and covers just about every possible inch of the board with gems, using the bedazzler to stick them in place.

Hefting his obviously very beautiful creation into his arms, he carries it off to find a place to put it. After some searching, he's found the perfect spot. Maybe there's already a decoration there. Maybe it's your decoration. Doesn't matter. Blitz reaches for it so he can throw it aside and replace it with the majestic wooden horse he decorated, which is now named Glitter, of course.

There. He helped. ]

III. DREAMSCAPE TUTORIAL
Sticky Hands

Oh, come on!

[ Did the leprechauns warn him about this? He's pretty sure they did, but clearly they didn't do a good enough job because Blitz's hand is stuck to a large, ornate vase. A vase that is surprisingly sturdy, considering his inability to smash it and break it. Probably thanks to all the gemstones on it.

In an effort to free his hand, he pins the vase against the wall and tries to pull his hand free. It doesn't work, and so he uses his other hand to punch the vase, resulting in both of his hands now being stuck to it. ]

That's it!

[ He swings his arms wildly, taking the vase with them. Feel free to help him out, point and laugh or get bopped by the vase as Blitz wildly swings his arms as he tries to separate his hands from the vase. ]

journals; sender: beat

[stillarhino]

[Looks like someone was able to read this!]

yo i thought the same thing when i got here
tough luck but there aint no internet here

Amy Rose | Sonic the Hedgehog (Avalon CRAU) | OTA

[pricklybloom]

A. Exploring Town

[ After receiving the explanation from Solei about this place, Amy is more than happy to take a look around and get more familiar with her new surroundings. She seems to be adjusting fairly well to these strange circumstances, all things considered. Noticing that there were beings aside from just humans helped a bit too, making her feel a little more comfortable.

Eventually Amy finds a few stores, and can't entirely help herself as she goes to check out a few dresses, seeing the different styles and trying some of them on to see how they look on her. ]

We could be here a while, right? It couldn't hurt to have a few extra outfits, just in case.

B. Modeling

[ Honestly, Amy hadn't really planned on getting a costume. But as she was passing by a clothing shop they had asked for some help advertising, and offered to make an outfit for her in exchange for assistance. And really, how was she supposed to say no to that?

So now she's standing outside the shop dressed as a princess, twirling around in her dress and waving at anyone who comes even remotely close. ]

Look, look! Isn't this dress gorgeous? If you think it looks good on me, you should see what they can make for you!

C. Clearing Traps

[ Amy isn't really all that interested in treasure, really, and the only reason she was here was to try out this whole "dreamscape" thing and help other people who might want to try grabbing some of the treasure.

Entering one of the rooms and seeing it filled with all sorts of treasure, Amy carefully scans the walls and floors, trying to see if there was any way of knowing what kind of trap might be triggered and Piko hammer at the ready while the other person grabs some treasure. ]

Be careful...

D. Wildcard

((Feel like doing something else? Go for it, or hit me up at usamichan13 to plot something!))

C

[grandduchess_anya]

(Anya isn’t interested in finding the treasure too, but she wants to help the new people in trying out their dreamotion skills and gathering treasures along with training her skills too, so she joins in the room.

The pink hedgehog lady has informed to watch out for any traps that could be hiding within the area.)

Oh yeah, right. Thanks for the heads up. I hope to be careful with where I’m stepping onto.

Dorian Storm | Critical Role | OTA

[makingmyway]

A. Magic Journals

Sender: Brontë Wyvernwind

Huh. Well, I had a different question that I was going to ask, but now I'd just like to know if there's any way to change that name. Not that it matters all that much now, I suppose, but I would prefer being called by something else.

B. Bedazzlepalooza/Dreamotion Abilities

[ Honestly, this is definitely the kind of event Dorian can get behind, so he is more than happy to assist with giving a little sparkle to the town. At first he settles for just helping stick some of the jewels and glitter to any available surface that he can find.

But at some point Dorian is taking a break and pulls out his lyre, plucking a few of the strings idly. Then, he plays a bit more in earnest, closing his eyes as the melody picks up. And as a lively song plays, a few twinkling lights begin to appear around him, and the lights seem to settle on some of the gems and shiny surfaces nearby, adding an extra bit of dazzle to them. ]

C. Up the Beanstalk

[ It sure would be helpful being able to fly or lift into the air in order to head up the beanstalk. Or at least make it easier. Unfortunately, Dorian realizes that he's actually having a bit of trouble doing that, as he's checking on his winged boots. ]

Of all the times not to work...

D. Wildcard

((Feel like doing something else? Go for it, or hit me up at usamichan13 to plot something!))

journals; sender: beat | ALSO omg Dorian!

[stillarhino]

[Beat can't help but feel like there's suddenly a pit in his stomach when he reads that. What do you mean the names could read as something else???]

yo imma help u out but what does mine say for ya?
in the sender?

Louie Duck | DuckTales (Victory Road CRAU) | OTA

[talkyourwayout]

Dreamotion Abilities
[A dreamscape, huh? Okay, so this isn't new territory. Doesn't mean it's not a pain to deal with! At least he's back in his normal body; no longer a human like he was in Johto? He could try to focus on that as a bright side, but optimism has never been Louie's bag. Solei explains things, the teenager starts feeling the stress... It's a familiar sensation that things aren't certain like he'd like them to be.

Except now the unsteadiness is taking a physical form, with the ground beneath his webbed feet rumbling and shaking. The tremors are minor, but he can't get them under control.]

Exploring Town
[Okay, he's got the picture: This is a whole lot of magic. Not his favorite, but at least he's a little bit experienced with it. And Louie's also noticed that newcomers like himself can get things for free... About a year ago he would've found the most valuable freebies he could get his hands on, but no.

Instead, Louie is at the apothecary Witch's Brew. He and the other dreamwalkers are going to need protection against the nastier sides of magic, and why not fight fire with fire? If only his magical know-how was less limited... But when in doubt, crowdsource your research.]

Hey, do you know much about this kind of thing?

Turkey Leg War
[If there's one new skill Louie has recently picked up, it's animal handling... Pokemon handling. Close enough. Coming off of creatures being his partners, it's a little weird to be rounding up the turkeys to be eaten. It probably looks even weirder, considering he's an anthropomorphic duck and all, but honestly that part doesn't bother him in the slightest.

What does bother him is running after the birds. Louie slows to a halt, panting with his hands on his knees, as yet another turkey gets away.]

Man I wish Shilling was here... [wheeze] Since when are turkeys fast?

Wildcard
(Got an idea I didn't cover? Go for it!)

Dreamotion Abilities

[pricklybloom]

[ There's just the faintest vibration under her feet, and Amy glances around the crowd until she spots Louie, and notices the tremors are just a bit stronger under him. ]

Hey...you okay?

Stolas ☆ Helluva Boss ☆ ota

[noctuagoetia]

1. Welcome to Songeren

1-A ★ Dream Journal
Well isn’t this charming? While I am no stranger to magical tomes, however this is my first time encountering one in which it is used in such a way. There are many other effective ways to communicate over long distances. Still, I wonder what kind of spell it uses. Will have to look into this later.

If this is truly being broadcasted to everyone, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Stolas of Ars Goetia. Pleasure to meet you all.

Though as much fun as this dream world appears to be and a much needed distraction… I would like to return home as soon as possible. I have pressing matters to attend.

1-B ★ Dreamotions
When the Goetic Prince arrived here in this strange dreamworld, Stolas could feel a damper on his own natural magical abilities. They felt…. hazy. As if a vail had been cast over them. Though some strings of power pulled strong as they once did back in Hell, so they weren’t completely muted. The goetic demon must know how this place worked! Its magic was… new and exciting. Controlling the arcane with your emotions? How fun! Experimentation needs to be conducted!

Off to the side of the main plaza in which the new arrivals had been dropped off, it was hard to miss a nine foot owl demon prince wearing that literal star studded cape. Wondering off the beaten path just a little where there were a cluster of trees, Stolas paused. Lets give these powers a whirl, shall we? Starting off small, the goetia closed his eyes to dig deep within himself as he raised to cup his taloned fingers. Within the weave of claws came a wisp of blue magic that floated above his palms. It was hard to distinguish if this was the result of his own magic or this dreamotion. Either way, this concluded that the prince still possessed some magical talents. Focusing on the spark that flickered in his hands it started to grow, or rather blossom as the magical ember sprouted into a delicate flower. Its petals danced in an invisible breeze and one-by-one they detached from its bud to spiral upwards changing from once more as they clustered. Bursting out like a firework from the sea of soft petals came a spectral owl, leaving a trail of blue sparkles in the wake of its beating wings. The creature circled its creator as Stolas looked up with a pleased grin on his beak.

In a brilliant dive bomb, the illusion funneled back into the black talons in which it sprung to form what looked to be an egg. Faint cracks started to etch its way around the solid white surface until it suddenly exploded in a pop of blue arcane confetti, leaving behind a small owlet. Seeing the hatchling caused Stolas’s grin to faint as thoughts of his own daughter washed over him. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, a mini storm cloud appeared out of thin air over his hands, soaking them in illusory rain.

“Ah!” The goetic demon squawked out in shock, waving his hands and the magic was lost.

He… he didn’t mean to cause that…

1-D ★ Dreambuck Cafe
Ducking his tall frame through the doorway of the little coffee shop, the prince decided to escape the heat for a bit. Also what better way to make casual observations of the quaint natives than visiting the proverbial "watering hole". Taking a moment to take in the ambiance of the cafe, he was rather fond of their aesthetic choices. Who doesn't love a little whimsy? Almost reminded him of home.

Looking like a kid in a candy shop, the large owl tapped his talons together eagerly as he couldn't help himself from letting out a small excited hoot. Gliding over to the bar Stolas eyed the specialties that they had to offer. All looked enticing, but there was one that truly called to him. Ordering himself a piping hot cup of Cloud Coffee, he took his tray and moved to occupy the closest free table. The prince must have been such a sight for the patrons of the Dreambucks Cafe that day. Cramming himself in a chair made for someone a third of his height, the prince looked as if a whole ass adult was attempting to sit in a high chair meant for a child. Even with his long twiggy legs straddling the round coffee table, Stolas didn’t seem to mind. In fact, he looked down right elated staring down at the sugary storm cloud. All four glowing eyes watched with unbridled joy as the hot steam caused it to ‘rain’ down on the bitter brew. Now this was his cup of tea…. Er coffee. Stolas bounced in place mutely clacking his claws together as soft delighted hoots escaped him.

2. Local Prompts

1-A ★ Modeling
Exploring deeper into what Reverein had to offer, the whole town was in a buzz getting ready for some sort of celebration. Wonder from ruckus from the main plaza, Stolas strolled down a line of what appeared to be shops. Keen to observe what the locals had to offer, the prince chose to do a little window shopping. Minding his own business as he made his way down the row, there came a tug on his cape. Who the- Glancing down, the owl spotted a curious fae eyeing the interior of his twilight cape. Before Stolas could inquire what the nature of their business with him, the fae took a hold of his hand, dragging the goetia with them.

If he had his full powers, or if he felt threatened by the gesture, he could have easily have turned the creature to stone. Even with his magic dulled, he could still easily defend himself. But... he felt no ill will from the fairy. Right down the path he could see where it indented to take him. Outside a what he could allow assume was a clothing boutiques, were others dressed in rather.... festive attired, such as his own. Oh, oh no... Did they think he worked here? When the duo approached, one of the larger fae turned to face him.

"You must be one of our models." Eyes dart over the goetia, "Still need more... pizzazz."

The fae clapped their hands as Stolas was dragged to one of the changing stalls by a squad of 'helpful' locals.

"What- No- I only just- Where are you touching?" Stolas disappears behind the curtains, his pleas falling on defeat ears.

Moments later the prince reemerges looking a hell of a lot more ridiculous than when he arrived. In addition to his galaxy cape, he was now sporting a crown of multicolored butterflies and enough shimmering jewelry to snap that thin bird neck of his.

3. Wild Card

(Don’t see something you like? Toss something up new or hit me up on plurk: goddessofsugar, or DM me on this journal. I’m open to everything.)

Modeling

[lonelysmiles]

Though Alastor had never personally met Prince Stolas (or any other members of the Ars Goetia for that matter), he did know them well enough to recognize them on sight. Even at full power, he knew he couldn't match even the weakest of their number, and Prince Stolas was quite gifted with his powers and area of expertise. (Honestly, Alastor had always wanted to pick the owl's brain for just his knowledge of plants given how much of voodoo magic was wrapped up with rootwork. Assuming he couldn't just pick the owl's brain for every scrap of knowledge he had on both plants and magic.)

So, yes, he knew precisely who it was that was dressed up in such a ridiculous outfit. He knew that he was probably going to end up dead for what was about to happen.

But dying laughing? That's a way he could stomach going.

Della Duck | Ducktales 2017

[sos_pilot]

Stop Thief!

[ Listen, if Gizmoduck and that weirdo in Saint Canard can stop bad guys, Della can ace this no problem! It's like stopping big-time villains, only on a much smaller scale! So she just needs to tone down her usual attack mode... although she's not really sure how. ]

GET BACK HERE, BEFORE I BREAK YOU IN HALF LIKE YOU BROKE THE LAW!

[ That works, right? Della's running as fast as her legs take her, trying to close in on the would-be thief. Alas, that's where you come in, poor soul. Because you happen to be in the way! So what does Della do? ]

Hey, you! Catch!

[ Catch what? Why, the thief, of course - after Della leaps and kicks them right in the back, sending them flying in your direction! You can totally catch that random body hurled in your direction! ... Sorry. ]

Ornate Eggs

[ Being a duck mom, she can help but feel a little sentimental around these eggs. Sure, they're way smaller than the eggs she laid and they weren't decorated (not for lack of trying, thanks buzzkill Donald), but they were the last she knew of her boys for ten years. So when help is needed to collect all the loose eggs, she goes a little above and beyond trying to catch them all.

And by that we mean she has so many eggs in her arms, and balancing some on one raised foot, that she can't see where she's going, and might accidentally bump into you. ]

Whoa! Oops, sorry! I didn't lose any, did I? ... Uh, would you mind telling me if I'm going in the right direction? I promise I'm normally more... Y'know what, no, I can't even finish that sentence, nothing about me is normal. Help?

Modeling

[ Normally this kind of stuff isn't really her thing, but she needs a bit of dough. If Uncle Scrooge taught her anything, it's that new worlds means adapting to new currencies ASAP. Fortunately, thanks to Louie's time tub incident, she does have experience wearing armor, so she chooses a heavily plated suit of such to do her job.

Which really sucks when it's time to take the darn thing off, and she... can't. She's a stuck duck. She can be found ramming her body into solid walls or rolling on the ground, trying to get any part of it off! ]

Oh my gosh, I'm FRYING in this thing! I'm gunna drown in my own sweat! I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DIE IN A LAME WAY! It needs to involve lightning and magic and a dying sorcerer cursing my blood line!

AUUUUUUGHHHH!!!! GET ME OUT OF HERE!

Clearing Traps

[ Finally, something she's actually competent at! Deadly traps, must be a Friday in Duck World! She's pretty much laughing with unrestrained glee as she dodges arrows and uses the item her hands are stuck on - a particularly large ornate battle helmet - as a shield. ]

Oh, that was CLASSIC! I knew those holes in the wall had to be used for something... I wonder what's next? Maybe the door gets guarded by two guys where only one speaks the truth and the other lies? Or you have to fight your own shadowy doppelganger? Oh, I can't wait!

Wildcard
[ You know the drill, make your own prompt! Feel free to plot with me at plurk (melcat33) or discord (melcat33#1997) ]

Ornate Eggs

[talkyourwayout]

[It's been over a year since Louie's seen his mother, and this wasn't the place he expected to have a reunion. But when someone bumps into him, there's no mistaking that voice. Louie picks up the egg Della was trying to carry with her foot with a disbelieving chuckle. While his voice is clearly still his voice, Della - being his mother and all - might notice a bit of a change. Louie had a couple birthdays in Johto, and is now fourteen.]

There's a lot of not normal in our family.

[And then he winces, immediately regretting marking this reunion with a corny, joke-y remark. There's something to be said here about the apple not falling far from the tree.]

I mean- Hi, Mom.

Millie | Helluva Boss

[ninefunerals]

[I. "Exploring" Town]

It's the hairs lifting on the back of your neck come nightfall. It's a stray movement at the very edge of your vision long after the breeze died down. Quick glances may meet a gleam of bright gold, but it's gone as quickly as it's found.

If you didn't know any better, you'd think you're being followed.

But eventually the air would grow still, and all others would have reached their destinations for the night. Even then, with seemingly nothing but you and the twin moons above in audience, that strange feeling persists.

Do you have an admirer? Surely that's the case. But something had to give. Who makes the first move?


[II. The Great Turkey Leg War]

The large birds screamed in panic, fleeing for their lives.

The turkeys were way easier than any critters she had to wrangle back home on the ranch! Little helmets, huh? That was actually kinda precious... but money's money, and nobody's gettin' any supper until these guys quit fighting.

Well, the diminutive red-skinned woman was always in need of some extra scratch, and she was starving. With a sizable knife clenched in her teeth, one more in each hand she was on the move, her bright blonde hair bouncing in the wind... almost too much, as if only hardly attached to her scalp.

Those red stains on her overalls were from the tomatoes, right? ...Right? Or maybe somebody missed the part where the turkeys needed to be unharmed...


[III. Dreamotion Abilities]

Practice makes perfect! Master your emotions, and you master the magic of this whole... thing.

But she'd cooed her heart out over the itty bitty knives she could manifest- too small to be of much use, even as the throwin' type- and after the first dozen she realized she needed to take a break.

As she flopped onto her backside in the grass, she took a moment to adjust her wig. It was hot as... well, Wrath, but a disguise was a disguise.

...And a cloud was a cloud. She narrowed her eyes at the little thing that had been following above her head today, slowly growing bigger.

"What, you're gonna rain on my parade or somethin' now?"

The cloud crackled. Rumbled. Then it began its isolated downpour. She coughed, sputtered, and grit her teeth.

"Shit. I had to ask...!"

I. eeeeee millie!!!

[stupidmammon]

[ Look. Mammon was willing to let it slide at first. Maybe someone just happened to be walking the same way as him? Maybe they noticed him and thought he'd lead them back into town or something?? It was pretty easy for people to get lost in this weird dream land after all.

But when he felt that presence continue to follow him, not a "Hey you!" or a "Yo, you with the white hair!?" not even a cough to get his attention, he knew something was up and it was making the hair on his neck stand. What the hell did he somehow stumble into someone's horror dream or something?? Well he wasn't about to just cave like a child, (even if he was getting a little spooked.), instead whatever was following him will notice a cloud of dark smoke surrounding him as he transforms a little. A pair of big black batlike wings form from his back and horns appearing above his head. Whatever he got the attention of he wanted them to know he could sense them. ]

Moxxie | Helluva Boss

[imp_resario]

IIC1. Dress Rehearsal
When that tailor said he was making a cloak and needed a model the assumption was something a bit more majestic and mysterious. Maybe something with a matching mask and candelabra. But, unfortunately, the only accessories for this particular costume were a delicate dress, a blond wig, and a picnic basket slung over his arm. And 'little red' was stuck standing in the window of the shop in the full ensemble, for nearly an hour of complicated acts of fitting, stitching, and hemming.

He stopped bothering to smile about thirty seconds in.

But, mercifully, the process would eventually come to its end, and he could finally free himself of the costume that left him in an unflattering and ever-so-slightly-mismatched combination of red-on-red. Or, at least, he would have, had that last little adjustment to the hood left it just a little bit too small and tight to pull back up over his backwards-bent horns.

The good news- as it were- was that after having a frank exchange of words at heightened volume with the tailor in question, the two of them had reached an arrangement: he'd at least be compensated for the extra time he spent modeling the attire as the tailor went off on an errand to replenish his supply of thread. And naturally, the moment said tailor left the building, a diminutive, devilish, and occasionally foul-mouthed Little Red Riding Hood ran out into the town, cursing under his breath, struggling to yank the cloak back up over his head... and periodically bumping into the legs of passerby, half-blinded by cloth, and quickly excusing himself before continuing down the street.

"How did she even SEE the wolf in this stupid-- excuse me-- thing?! I swear to FUCK if I hear ONE WORD about-- excuse me-- what big horns I have I'm going to -- excuse me--"

IID1. Swan(?) Lake
Hunting- of a sort- was already his forte. But bringing his targets in alive? That was a new trick. And it also posed a unique challenge, especially when his mark was... beyond deception. Which was a polite way of saying these turkeys were either too smart to fool or too dumb to trick. They blithely stepped out of his snares as they tightened, they didn't even seem to notice when he stooped to using a stick-and-box trap, and- at this point- it was taking all of his restraint and professionalism to not just walk off after shooting the damn things for good measure.

But then they'd win. And he wasn't going to let that happen.

Thus he lie in wait. Stalking a trio of turkey hens as they milled about near one carefully-dug pitfall trap, shrunk down into a makeshift camouflage net covered in a few puffy layers of brown leaves and dead foliage, peering out through the sight of his rifle. He just needed a little time to study them. Get inside their tiny-brained heads. Put himself in the shoes of his quarry.

...and he was perhaps doing too good a job of the latter. A rustle from beside him brought him whirling his gaze to the side... and coming face-to-beak with a turkey tom almost as big as he was. Its chest puffed out, its tail fanned, wings held low as it approached, its gaze intent-- but... seeming a little less than hostile.

"...Um?"

Another gaze sent his way. A... strangely smouldering gaze, in that avian sort of way.

"...are you... hitting on me??"

No. He didn't have time for this. Just one turkey. He only needed one of these turkeys to take the bait, and he couldn't afford to lose his focus now. His sights were turned back towards the three hens out in the clearing once again... but found his focus further distracted, and his cover nearly blown, by the turkey tom's clumsy attempts to find purchase with the back of his head.

"No! Shoo--go away!! You'll scare them off!!"

Trying to get his job done and suddenly waylaid by the advances of a pent-up, long-legged bird. Satan help him, he was turning into his boss.

IIIC. Little Shop of Horrors
The treasure room wasn't too difficult to figure out. Step one: Trigger the pressure plate. Step two: Prematurely trigger the arrows coming from the obvious holes in the walls. Step three: Hop up onto the pedestal and grab the sealed treasure box. Step four: Vault over the statue before it probably swings that big sword at whomever goes for the prize. Step five: Clamber up the wall and get back out again.

He cracked his knuckles, a small grin working onto his face. "Oh, I've got this." ...and then a second or two spent sheepishly untangling and unsticking his fingers.

A steely, headache-inducing, teeth-clenching glare eventually saw the pressure-plate mechanism trigger quite precisely and yield under his gaze- no point being sloppy by, say, summoning an anvil to weigh it down or something silly like that- and the arrows whizzed through empty air. With all the grace of a caffeinated ferret, he bounded across the floor, up the pedestal, took hold of the sealed box with one hand-- click.

--and the room quite literally turned upside-down. Which might simply have been one more step to overcome were it not for two small problems: First was that his treasure was, for the moment, still firmly affixed to the pedestal, and he to the treasure by his right hand. Which may not have been too much trouble for someone of roughly normal, human height, whose feet might still be able to touch the ground. Er-- ceiling. Ground?

"Ah... huh."

Moxxie, however, was not of normal human height, and was quite literally left hanging.

"Okay, it's fine. I can--" squirm, tug. Nope, exactly where he was before. "Just... give me a minute, and..."

He was probably going to need help.

Dress Rehearsal! Time to terrorize another imp!

[lonelysmiles]

The latest pair of legs that Moxxie had run into bore a rather distinctive pair of Oxfords with red deer print soles and the ability to sound like hooves clicking as their wearer walked. And those shoes were on the feet of a rather tall and infamous demon who bent over to grin at the imp.

"Well, now! If I didn't know any better, I'd think that Hell was trying to take over this idyllic little town! It'd certainly add some spice to the place, wouldn't it?"

Yup. That sure is the Radio Demon you bumped into, Moxxie. RIP?

Ann Takamaki | Persona 5 Royal/Strikers | CRAU - Hugtopia | ota

[menaretrash]

Welcome to Songerein.

1 - Magic Journals.

Sender: Ann Takamaki

Hey! So, other than the obvious, what does everyone do for fun around here?

General suggestions would be nice.

Also, another question! Are there any places around here that sell crepes? Y'know. The strawberry and cream filled ones. Or any kinda sweet, really. Asking for a friend and DEFINITELY not asking for myself.

...Maybe a little for myself.

2 - Dreambucks.

[ This place is cute and the fairies that run it are even cuter. It reminds her of a few cafes in Shibuya, even if nothing can really ever take LeBlanc's place in her heart. But it's exciting to see such a cute little coffee joint sitting amidst what seems to be an already bustling, busy world.

Ann places her order -- a Melon Soda -- and finds a place to sit down. As she sips, she smiles slightly because the feeling that overtakes her is a familiar one, one she'd left behind not too long ago. It reminds her of sleepovers, her friends, road trips. Camping, laughter... it's a nice feeling she's not keen to let go of anytime soon. ]

Local Prompts.

3 - Modeling.

[ Finally. As much fun as Ann's been having with other activities, this feels more like home than anything else. And unlike some of the more unwilling victims volunteers, she's practically bouncing at the chance to try on pretty clothes and do what she does best -- make those clothes look good. Even if they're a little... old school for her liking, it's fine. This is sort of like a renaissance fair, right? Right.

So, Ann gleefully makes her way down the street in what appears to be some sort of princess dress, careful as she is in any borrowed outfit, to show it off and promote the shop she's trying to help out. They didn't necessarily tell her to advertise loudly, which is great because she's having a pretty good time just wandering around in a pretty dress. Mostly. ]

Aww, I wish I didn't have to give the dress back, but a deal's a deal, I guess. [ Is she talking to herself? Is she talking to you? Who knows. ]

Dreamscape Tutorial.

4 - Beanstalk.

[ Everything about this screams like it's a bad idea. It also very much screams Palace or Jail and Ann absolutely cannot turn something like this down. It goes against her very being, and besides, it's not entirely the same, is it? Of course not. This is meant to be fun. Probably. That's what she chooses to believe, at least.

As she surveys the leaves and beanstalk in general, she places her hands on her hips, humming thoughtfully. ]

Sooo... we just gotta get up to the top, right? I'm sure we can do it if we work together!

5 - Wildcard.

[ Got anything you wanna do with Ann? Go for it. As a side note, I'm going to be a bit on the slow side until the evening of the 25th. I work 12+ hours a day so I ask for your patience in advance. Also, if you'd like to plot or talk anything about, feel free to PP this journal or ukannotwin! ]

2. It's a blast from the past with that sass and pancake ass

[herewardbound]

Dreambucks was not his favorite place in Reverein. It was too crowded, and they didn't make coffee the way he liked it anyway. Not that anyone actually did, but he wasn't ready to admit that out loud.

"Akechi! Chai latte for Akechi!" The pixie at the counter called out, setting a drink down and returning to her work, and he rose from where he'd been waiting, ready to take his drink and go, taking an experimental sip.

Well, at least the tea was decent.

Vaggie | Hazbin Hotel

[chikapolilla]

IA. Magic Journals and First Impressions

[A perfectionist as always, the writing is clean and neat, if a bit stilted.]

This is a test of this communication method. Please respond in a concise and impartial manner to confirm it's effectiveness.

Yes, that is it. I have no real interest in exchanging personal information or share life stories. Let us keep this nice and civil and we'll make it out of this just fine.

IB. Mr Raindrop

[Dreamotion comes in a lot of forms, and Vaggie is an emotional storm of rage and fury. For a mercy, she is clever enough to figure out what is going on with the power's effect on the landscape, but the constant state of pessimism has manifested into a perpetual rain cloud following along her.]

[No matter how many times she swatted at it with her spear.]

[With a grumble and a sigh, Vaggie made her way over to the nearest clothing stall before being shoo'd out with the first umbrella that was on hand. It was a large umbrella emblazoned with large smiling suns, in complete contrast to the morose girl underneath.]

[The cloud only gets bigger as it follows Vaggie, a small waterfall of rainwater pouring down the sides of her umbrella. She's being conscientious as she can, but sometimes small things make the cloud bigger and thus, the range of the water spray].

IIC. Design Backpedal

[Vaggie was forced to be here -- of course she would be, like HECK she would be actively participating in anything that wasn't cooked up by her partner. Still, she figures it could be worse. Yeah, she was being forced against her will, but she always did like fashion and, hey, a new look may not be that bad?]

[Still, when she was told she was going to be dressed for The Chorus, she was thinking something more Helenisitc -- white gowns, maybe a crown of laurels, that sort of thing. She wasn't expecting something that looked out of a 1980s punk music video.]

[The tailors seemed very pleased, and so Vaggie will entertain the notion of modeling outside. Until it pisses her off. She'd give it about 5 minutes.] So, yeah. If you're impressed by this and for some reason think this would look good, just go back there and tell them 'No, I don't really want to model. Seriously. Put down that fabric,' and they'll hook you up real fast.

IIIA. Unreasonable Voice of Reason

[The dream world was vast, and in need of investigating. The people and it's designs were a mystery, and should Charlie ever find herself here, Vaggie would need to be ready to provide her with as much assistance and help as she needs. The second she saw the beanstalk and heard the rumble, her eye opens wide and she rushes up to any and all who are making their way up the beanstalk.]

Hey hey HEY HEY HEY!! You're not seriously thinking of going up there, are you? You've heard this story, right? Fe fi fo fum?? Crush your bones, make your bread? IS THAT RINGING ANY BELLS?

IIIA. Unreasonable Voice of Reason

[praise_the_lamb]

Beneath the crown of fluff, the lamb gazes up at the beanstalk, winding through the air to the castle in the sky. Finally. A land to conquer. And a good way to practice these dream powers, too!

For the Lamb thirsts for the blood of non-believers, and by right of will shall the rivers run red with nectars of conquest.

The lamb turns, rather surprised at the sound of concern as they look up at the woman providing it, and a smile runs over their features.

"I thank you, my child, for your worry. To care for another, especially a stranger, is to embody the divine more than any priest can lay claim. But I assure you, me and Death are old friends. And I have gathered far more bones from the remains of my enemies than the heretics have gotten from mine."

Loona | Helluva Boss

[666_hellhound_aesthetic]

[I. Welcome to Songerein]


EXPLORING TOWN

The various stalls and vendors offered plenty room to slip back and forth without being exposed to the myriad shapes and sizes of people who had found their way into the strange dreamscape. But slinking around wasn't enough, stealth only got you so far and although you would struggle to find anyone who would call Loona a virtue of any kind, certainly patience was about the furthest virtue away from the hellhound just now.

"Where the fuck is everyone...?!" She hissed under her breath as she kept low.

All she'd known was waking up, surrounded by empty bottles and debris from the night before, still in the same getup from work the day before and with a mouth that tasted like an ashtray. Before she could even work past the pounding headache that the bright colors around her offered no respite, she was bombarded by pestering pixies and long barrages of information she refused to listen to before she hauled herself up and bounded away out of earshot of the annoyances.

At least she'd found somewhere to find her bearings, but she still had no idea where this even was. It certainly wasn't hell - unless it was her own personal one - and it certainly wasn't the mortal world going by some of the denizens here on display.

Still, she hadn't noticed anyone as fuzzy as she was, and if she was going to learn anything she had to be able to ask questions and not hug to the shadows any more. Her silhouette shifted, ears and muzzle vanishing inward, tail fading into the sway of her steps and broad paws gave way to beaten up cons.

She still looked seriously out of place from the environment in her drab blacks and grays, but, at least Loona looked a lot less conspicuous than before, hauling out her cellphone and holding it up.

"...sure as shit ain't Heaven... bet they'd have perfect signal all day."

Everything about this place messed with her senses, far too bright, far too loud and far too many foody smells as her stomach grumbled. How long had food been? And could she even handle whatever fang rotting sweetness these hippies were dishing out?

"Great. Fu-cking great." she made a noise that lead into a far more feral growl from her other form as eyes slid back and forth.

"Guess it's just eenie-meany-miney-moe for now..."

Loona turned and entered the fray of eclectic humans, and just for a single moment her shadow almost flickered, shapes of pointed ears perk and alert and a bristled tail followed her as she waded in to find any clues of what came next.


~~~~~~


MAGIC JOURNAL

[For reasons of brevity and better sensitivity than those of the person writing the journal, the contents of the immediate pages that began scribing themselves consisted entirely of four letter word expletives in arranged variety, combination and exclamation. After three pages worth of this mindset broadcast to any who would read it and blush, the pages begin to form a slightly more coherent, slightly less profane narrative.]

nothing here

this whole place feels like cotton candy, all sweet and sickening and just nothing but puffed up air... feels like being stuck in Loo-Loo Land or some shit and they threw away the key

just wanna howl or scream or something but guess this'll have to do for now... just gonna write in here and vent all this stuff so maybe later my brain doesn't look like someone knitted some cat-hair sweater and shoved it in my fucking skull while i try to figure shit out

maybe i'll go back and edit this later... scrub out stuff as i go along and kind of work things out... or maybe need to leave it like it is... never know what might make sense later

so... what do i know about this place?

[The following remainder of the whole page appears to be a doodle of some sort, a strange symbol that would fill those who see it with some strange sense of familiarity and foreboding... a rune? A glyph? Some ancient talisman or marking? It appeared to be in the shape of an alphabetical letter, or a diamond, or the symbol of infinity yet its meaning would seem lost to the ages.]

i got nothing

especially no signal on my cell... fuck... forgot my charger last night... who knows how long it'll last?

could probably fill this entire fucking book with what i dont know... which about now is even more than Moxxie and right now? that's saying dick...

but i know i caught some scents that dont fit in here... everyone smells different like they dont belong but i KNOW there are a couple who still smell like brimstone and bad coffee... follow those, ask questions later

...

if someone finds this?

tell Moxxie this is all probably his damn fault


~~~~~~~


DREAMBUCKS CAFE

So.

Two upright walking ducks, a pink spikeball and someone who she was sure she spotted was that rich limp dick who Blitz kept getting phonecalls from later, Loona had at least established that it was safe to not have to walk around in sheeps clothing at least for a little while and stood in all her Hellhound glory.

That at least meant that she could focus on the next most important thing on her list of priorities, and the sight of any barista-like establishment normally meant the promise of bad service, ridiculous prices and enough caffeine to nix out the hellhound's hangover long enough until she could find more hair of the dog somewhere.

Certainly the staff had smiles as fake plastered on their faces as any other person working in retail ever saw, and she had no idea about exchange rates but she was sure all those zeroes meant something somewhere, but the last quality-

"Satan's balls... is there anything on this menu that doesn't look like the care bears barfed into a cup and passed it round?" Her fur bristled and tail twitched in obvious agitation as the exasperation rumbled into a growl in her throat. Every single thing looked so twee and cozy she was just waiting for grandma to show up to tell her what big eyes she had.

Hell, she'd appreciate the fellow hound company about now.

Finally her eyes ran over something that was black and decently inoffensive to her demeanor, as she jabbed quickly. "There."

"That one, hook me up." her claw pointed at the black Peach Tea as she threw the contents of her pocket on the counter, a scattering of coins, lint and a couple of wadded up ones that grinned demonically at anyone who held the currency up for inspection. And much like many other things Loona had met so far, she ignored the chipmunk-like babble of exasperation and settled at least on the three words that were most relevant: 'On the House'.

Yanking her money back with all the instincts of a cornered animal, Loona swiped the cup out of the offering fae and then paused for a moment, before jamming one of the wadded ones back as a tip and marching off to find the darkest corner she could find to be anti-social further.

But the second she lifted the drink to her muzzle and swigged, the hellhound coughed and spluttered, eyeing it suspiciously, "The fuck?!"

Of course it was fruitier than Blitz... but... she sipped again, at least it was something to get rid of the after taste of that first sip. And she kept going, drinking it steadily as her fur seemed to soften, even relaxing somehow, her tail lazily drooping as her body began to feel some kind of relief.

"...Had worse," she reflected flatly, even as she swiped at her tongue with one of her hands, only problem was that backwash. Why did it feel like she had just licked a toad?


~~~~~~~


[II. LOCAL PROMPTS]

[C. COSTUMING]

"So what, is this like, a Quinceañera or something?" Loona asked one of the many clothiers at work on the various dresses and designs for the faire, only to get a meek and feeble squeak of reply on the upcoming event and celebration that made Loona shoot off a sound somewhere between a huff and a bark.

"'Fairy tales'... could kiss the furriest part of my ass..." She scowled, scanning the many other workers hard at their craft and creating equally colorful, equally elegant efforts, each as elaborate and eye-gouging to Loona's senses as the last.

"Doesn't ANYONE here have a sense of-" She began to howl out, then stopped, as an idea crept into her head.


[One hour and thirty-seven minutes later, some paint and a stall whose vendor suddenly decided it was better to cash out than contend with the looming hellhound who had suddenly appeared before them.]

"There."

Loona tossed the paint brush with little care for the other stall owners or passers by as she planted hands on hips and regarded her creation.

EDGE TOPIC read the sign, with no hint of whatever it was supposed to purvey, other than the myriad pieces of material Loona had scrounged up and piled up to resemble a disused henhouse some farmer had turned into storage.

Yet among the organised chaos was some semblence of shape: a mannequinn now addorned with a fabric of some spider silk sprayed black; with stones and studs being assembled to bracelets and lines of material yet to be fastened and put together; sheer, black, plaid, rough, coarse materials that several hastily scribbled ideas showed garbs hinted would end up looking as if they had either been modelled for a funeral wake or had just been handed in by someone who had survived through a slasher-flick and a field of barbed wire to get there.

"They want fairy tales?" Loona's smirk went wide, beaming fangs as she looked at her ideas, scooping up a skewer that held several twitching beetles on its length, "Then let's go Grimm on these sugarplum shits!"

The market had gained at least now one very alternative costuming option for those who weren't attracted to the Diznee Princess aesthetic. And certainly also gained an eyesore until anyone dared tell her otherwise to this little business venture.

Hell, if Blitz could run a franchise, how hard could it really be?

"Business is open, bitches!"

[C. COSTUMING]

[praise_the_lamb]

Soft fae, curved edges, sparkles, and dreamy mist clouds. Through it all, a figure walks as they examine their surroundings, their fluffy, rounded features accompanied by a smile. A long robe of crimson red lined with white, a black collar, and an honest to goodness jingle bell hanging off the ensemble. Even their horns are little more than cute nubs. At least the black crown with a glowing red eye perched atop their head is neat.

The lamb looks up at the sign and their footsteps falter. Their eyes glance down over the mannequin. The distressed clothing. The bleak, ramshackle nature of the commandeered stall itself. And then they start walking closer. To put a stop to this chicanery, perhaps?

The lamb leans up to the counter, lifts a hand, and places a handful of gold coins inscribed with pentagrams on top of it, looking up at the hellhound proprietor with that same mild smile.

"Just fuck me up." Says the little lamb.

Husk | Hazbin Hotel

[cheapbooze]

cw: crude language and potential alcoholism mention in some threads

Local Affairs

[Husk has absolutely zero interest in helping the locals with setting up for their upcoming festival, or whatever the fuck it is that they're up to here when he finds himself suddenly in this location. Instead he's been people-watching, grumpy as ever as his tail swishes back and forth in aggravation--this place is way too bright and happy looking in comparison to what he's used to, and he's way too fucking sober to even pretend to be sociable.

That is until someone (perhaps you, or perhaps some local near both you and Husk) gets a bit too close, either by bumping into him or actively reaching out to try to touch one of his wings--his feathers are eye-catching enough for some people to probably start getting ideas for costumes here--but he very quickly snatches a clawed paw to grab at the wrist of the offending touch, snarling with exposed teeth.]

Touch me like that again, and you'll lose your hand.

[Are you the one getting threatened here, or is it a local that you feel like stepping in and doing something to intervene before this potentially gets ugly?]

Beanstalk

[Initially Husk wasn't going to take part in any of this, until he overheard someone entertain the possibility of wine or other valuable bottles of alcohol being included somewhere in the "treasure" located in this castle they're having people look into. And if there's anything that can perk Husk's interest, it's booze, especially when he's had a not so easy time getting his hands on some here in comparison to when he was stuck in Hell.

As such, there's a strange cat bird creature that seems to be having a much easier time than most when it comes to climbing here, or even using his wings to get past the more difficult parts of the beanstalk to climb... however, if you're expecting him to help you up as well, then you're shit out of luck--in fact, he's more likely to stop and watch in amusement if he happens to notice somebody else struggling here by comparison...

Sorry, he's kind of an asshole like that.]

Wildcard

[If there is something else that you want to thread with Husk here, hit me up! Working together to get past the traps in the castle? Finding him sitting on a roof or passed out somewhere? I'm up for just about anything. Feel free to PM this journal, or catch me at wailords!]

Beanstalk. Really hoping he passes canon requirements because Husk~

[lonelysmiles]

Well now! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes, my dear Husker?!

[Perched a bit higher up on the stem of a massive leaf is Alastor. He's been using his teleportation to do a series of "hops" up to the beanstalk. He's more interested in seeing what's up there and watching others potentially fall to their deaths than collecting treasure.]

Oh, I don't know what's started this Hellish invasion, but it is just simply berries!

Dante | Devil May Cry

[strawberryredgrave]

1D. Dreambucks Cafe

Dante's pretty sure this isn't where that portal to Hell was supposed to take him. He went there, with his brother. So this place? Bright and colorful and not exactly crawling with demons? Something's not right. But hey, gives him more to do and explore, right? The last thing any place, Hell or no, needs is for Dante to get bored.

Since there's a lack of any bars and he can't find alcohol anywhere, he settles for the cafe he's heard a few things about. Maybe the colorful drinks can do something similar? Wouldn't put it past them, considering how strange everything else is. Fortunately for him, he gets the Melon Soda. It looks like a test tube experiment and tastes like thirteen too many lollipops, but it is giving him something close to a buzz. Might be all the sugar.

“Yeah, that's a good start.” He remarks, picking himself up and immediately donning a stylish hat that forms a scarf around his neck.. He starts to tap his foot on the ground, when music starts to fill the air and Dante himself starts to take the lead on what can only be described as a real life music video. Maybe you're watching this take place and this mega dork is keeping you from enjoying your drink. Maybe you join in without thinking about it; maybe you don't realize you have until later, if you do at all. Either way, an idiot's making his own fun and it's a little too loud to ignore.

IID2. Fruits and Veggies

Gather fruits, they said. It'll be simple, they said. They need them for the festival, they said. One thing no one said even once about this little request is that some of the fruits might have a lot to say, themselves. Dante learned this too late, when he'd already picked up several pineapples.

It's been SO long since anyone held me the way you're holding me now.

Ooh, your hands are so warm.

Can we stay close like this forever?

“Didn't I say 'no talking' earlier?”

You never want to talk anymore! I miss the days when we used to...

Dante's so ready to hand these off and move on with his life, guys.

Wildcard

Dante's a grown up gremlin and a mega dork, so there's few things he won't be up for! Hit me up with whatever you wanna do with the dumb boy. You're welcome to PM me on this journal or hit me up at rikimaruhitori!

Dreambucks

[notladyluck]

There was one woman standing close to the door, shaking her head. Really, Dante? Also, why in the world was she even here? The last thing she remembered was talking with Trish about who was going to take over Dante's office after he disappeared. Well, that was before Morrison broke things up with another job and Dante's 'will'.

She just leaned against the wall and let Dante do what he was going to do. There wasn't any point in stopping him. If she let him get it out of his system she might be able to get a bit of information out of him. Like just how in the hell was he supposed to get out of Hell after going there with Vergil?

Zhongli | Genshin Impact | OTA

[gentryofhermitage]

Dreamotion Abilities
[A world of dreams… it is certainly a strange phenomenon, but the evidence of it is right before his eyes. Zhongli’s domain may not be dreams, but he can understand the basic principles behind it. As such, he finds the concept of dreamotion fascinating, once the basics are explained to him. Once he is left to his own devices, he can be found off on his own, practicing what he had been told. He manages to create a small orb of yellow light in his hand, which hovers aloft above his outstretched palm.]

I see… so, allowing one’s emotions to flow through them and be harnessed creates an effect which can be manipulated… a unique talent, but I think I can understand the basics of it.

[It’s not exactly a large display of dreamotion magic, or overtly obvious one. But for those around him who might also be practicing, they might notice that while Zhongli focuses on the light orb in his hand, he is also creating waves of calm that pulses around him. It’s a kind of calm that might quiet a restless mind or help a frustrated person practicing their dreamotion to relax. Whether he is aware that he is creating this wave of calm or not, however, is currently unknown.]

Exploring the Town
[Once he is settled and brought up to speed on what’s going on, Zhongli sets out to explore the town proper. He takes it mostly in stride, walking leisurely as he peruses the local shops in town and observes their wares. Quite often he can be found admiring various objects outside of a shop’s window, or browsing a shop’s wares inside, or discussing the items with shopkeepers. He has a fine eye for details and craftsmanship, often examining some of the pricier items for sale. Whether he be browsing antiques…]

The make of this music box is quite stunning. The time and effort required to paint such minute details onto such the small box speaks volumes to the artisan’s skill. It’s nothing short of exquisite. It would be a shame not to purchase this fine work…

[…or jewelry…]

This brooch was crafted by the fae, you say? I see… the inlay of pearls added to the white gold draws attention to the metal’s elegance without being too distracting or gaudy. A subtle piece, and yet it speaks of great care and talent. I would be honoured to take it with me.

[…or even items from the Farmer’s Market…]

The scent from these tea leaves offers a pleasant aroma, speaking of the care in their cultivation. Not too overpowering, yet I also detect traces of sweetness and spice that compliment each other pleasantly. Brewing this would certainly yield a wonderful cup of tea. Ah, you have tins available for purchase..?

[All these lovely wares seem to attract the old adeptus’s eye, and with the first-time purchase waived by so many friendly shopkeepers, it’s not long before Zhongli has a full basket of various baubles, trinkets, and oddities. Does he even have the room to store this all? Who knows. But he is certainly making the most of his time in the markets.]

Dreambucks Cafe
[Once he discovers the particular cafe, Zhongli had to stop in to sample its wares. Though the Cloud Coffees are a novelty he hadn’t seen before, he decides to settle for a warm cup of Peach Tea to enjoy; a simple tea, yet comforting. He takes it with him to a table outside the cafe and calmly sips it as he takes in the sights of the town around him. Drinking tea while people-watching has always drawn out his more nostalgic side, but the effects of the tea itself make him sigh in a content way as he observes the comings and goings of the people around him.]

This town has humble roots, but has the promise of a great and prosperous community. Seeing the people go about their daily lives may seem simple, but every life tells a story. Every great commercial hub starts out with a simple marketplace, after all.

It reminds me of when I would walk through the streets of a young Liyue Harbour…

[The problem with his nostalgia trip? Once he begins to talk, he has a hard time stopping. Do you sit and listen to his ramblings? Or try to get him to stop?]

Costuming/Modeling
[It’s no secret that some of the people who have been asked to model the costumes for the Faire were coerced in a way, and Zhongli is one of the ones who ended up getting roped into the whole thing. Despite the silly nature of the job, Zhongli still takes the work seriously; Madame Blackbird and the other costumers do seem like hardworking businesspeople who want to show off their products. So he allows himself to be dressed up in a sharp outfit, and stands outside one of the costumers’s shops. He nods politely to those who pass by, looking every bit a refined renne faire gentleman.]

If you are looking for quality textiles, I would recommend stopping by this shop. The outfits are unlike the common garb that I am used to, but the quality is apparent.

[He may look ridiculous, but he’s genuinely trying his best. After all, a quality businessperson’s wares should be shown off, should they not?]

Wildcard
[Feel free to make your own starter should you be interested!]

Modeling. it can't not be modeling.

[fffffclass]

[ Salespeople are the same in every world, it seems... Yoojin only meant to do some window shopping (after all, who could pass up an opportunity to peruse an inter-dimensional dream market?), but with pockets as bare as his bank account used to be, he really can't help feeling back for this oddly-dressed fellow. There's something refined about Zhongli despite the fact that the clothes don't suit him at all.

He holds up his hand in apology, forcing a smile ]

Ah, no, I'm just looking... Sorry. It seems I forgot to dream money with me today...?

[ He trails off, distracted as several satus window notifications suddenly pop up in his vision.

Activating the effect of [Dragon Slayer], [Lauchitas's Natural Enemy]! All skill effects are doubled when facing 'Rex Lapis'!

Eh? Wait, here? Now?

Why the heck is the system telling giving him a message like that...? There aren't any dragons around--right? Yoojin quickly looks this way and that, but there's really nothing out of the ordinary aside from the strangely good-looking salesperson in front of him.


Zhongli can't see the status windows, but he sure as heck will get the sense of having just come upon another dragon or half-dragon :'> ]

The Lamb | Cult of the Lamb | OTA

[praise_the_lamb]

I-D. Charity Sodastream
The Servant God is abundance itself, and from wool shorn shall new wool grow, as the bounty of luxury gives and inspires to give in turn.

The ringing of a bell sounds out as the door to the Dreambucks Cafe is opened by a slight figure, followed by a smaller jingle from the sleigh bell on the newcomer's cloak. A lamb, covered in poofy white wool, wrapped in a crimson cloak and collar, with two short nubby horns atop their head. Upon their brow, between the horns, rests a pitch-black crown with a baleful red eye, glowing faintly in the shop light. They look up, a smile on their face as they take in the novelty of the store. Wandering has certainly paid off!

Laughter and mingling swiftly ensue. Even for the quiet ones, it's not hard to ingratiate oneselves with such largely accommodating company. Some of the other newcomers seem to be enjoying the atmosphere too, but eventually, the true price of the melon soda is learned, of which the lamb flat-out refuses.

"Your welcoming kindness is gift enough already, but I cannot accept more. Charity is my business." The lamb says, retrieving some coins. Three eyes then glance at the gold. Oh, this would be a good time to spread the love, wouldn't it.

"In fact... How could we bear to know that not all these fine creatures could enjoy the same privilege? HEY, EVERYBODY! EVERYTHING'S ON ME!" The lamb calls with a grin, slapping a fistful of the stuff on the counter.


I-B. Dreamotion Horror Problems
As for to gaze in truth upon the terrible beauty of The One Who Bleats is to behold death, the devoted shall pray instead to altar and flame, that they may be spared.

A deep breath in, and the lamb exhales, treading down the sidewalk as the red garment cloaking them blows past in the gentle breeze. It's so far removed from the lands of the old faith. No cobwebs, no all-consuming monsters, no robed assassins. The lamb feels almost at home here. It's so tempting just to relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Which, unfortunately, doesn't seem to be good for their surroundings. As the lamb passes by an open store window, the clothing blossoms into stolid crimson robes, the heads of the mannequins snapping to attention to stare towards the caprine while their empty eyes fill with red and pour down the glass. Flowerbuds bloom, revealing staring eyes in their blossoms that gaze mournfully outwards.

Another inhale. It's such a lovely day here, as the bright light of the sun fizzles against occluding shadows, the darkness fanning out behind them increasing the contrast of everywhere nearby. And one more exhale with that jingle bell jingling with every step, the light, crisp sound echoing loud in the silence it leaves behind, robbing the world of all but the most insistent volume behind that terrible gong.

The aesthetics are clashing horribly; someone really needs to tell that lamb to reel it in.


II-D-2. Fruit of the Earth
Take heed, for The Lamb shall smile upon those that offer up the fruits of their labours to others, as the earth shall blossom anew to replace them.

Clink!

Grow the herbs and vegetables of the fields? Check.

Clink! Clink!

Raise the stone and mortar, form a building? Check.

The lamb raises the crown-turned-pickaxe, slamming it into the rockface with an unsatisfying Clink! as a round orb of solid stone spills out from the side, landing against the ground with a meaty Thunk as it cracks partially open to reveal the brilliant cherry-red gem-like seeds within, spilling some out over the ground.

Pomegranites. The only fruit that needs to be quarried rather than picked.

Nope, this is a new one. Gotta admit though, it sure is novel. The lamb lets out a sigh, leaning against the pickaxe as they gaze up at the cliff with the telltale granite concaves foretelling more fruit. Honestly though, even for a god, this would go a lot easier with teamwork. Or perhaps someone to talk to, instead?


Wildcard
The lamb is ready to roll with most anything!

The milk of lambly kindness

[halfpinthellion]

It's the damnedest thing. Somebody said 'food is on me', and before anybody could say 'I'm sorry, but who invited-'...

This little shit was here, chowing down on the almond croissants like it was his godsdamned birthright. "Hey, not that I'm complainin' or anything, but how come you're givin' away all the free grub, fuzzy? With that kinda coin hangin' around, you coulda bought out the whole place an' kept it all fer yourself. I don't get it."

Seto Kaiba | Yugioh

[blue_eyed_obsession]

I. Initial Impressions // Arrival

[To say he was feeling disoriented would have been a grievous understatement as the brunette came to in the middle of a busy thoroughfare. There was something different about this experience, just off enough to be unsettling and it wasn't just the clip clopping of hooves that met his ears or the unfamilar architecture. If he didn't know any better, Kaiba would have assumed that he'd somehow managed to find himself inside one of his virtual reality simulation pods.

This wasn't Havenwell, but it also wasn't Domino City; it did have the distinct feeling like the opening of an RPG. So, what was going on here? He hadn't made the leap to assuming this was a dream yet, as his mind raced through a myriad of possibilities.

Having become aware enough to realize he was in a crouching position on the ground, he noticed that some unwitting pedestrian was distractedly nearing him and if he didn't speak up there could be a collision]

Step on me, and you'll find out what this cobblestone tastes like.

[With that, he quickly righted himself and gave his attire a once over, smoothing out the folds of his jacket in the process. Well, he was dressed normally. That was something. Towering over the person he just threatened, he posed a follow up question.]

Where are we, and why? Be brief, there's no need to draw this out.

[Would the stranger be obliging, advise Kaiba to wait for the tapir, or just keep right on walking?]

II. Dream Journal

Sender: Seto Kaiba

Journals, and quills? Just how archaic can you get?

Pay attention, because I'm only going to send this once. This is Seto Kaiba of the Kaiba Corporation, if either of those names mean anything to you leave a response. If not, then there's no use wasting my time or yours.

Assuming this thing even works in the first place...

III. Bedazzlepalooza & Stop Thief

Of all the...

[One irate teenage entrepreneur lamented to himself as he hastily plucked off another faceted jewel from his already ostentatious coat. Kaiba didn't know when someone had found a time when his guard was down low enough to do this... but somehow the bottom portion of his attire was dotted with all manner of sparkly accents. Perhaps it had been when he was warding off an overly exuberant shopkeeper that tried to get him to model one of these renaissance rejects, or when he'd had to wait for a flock of helmeted turkeys to cross his path before he could continue to explore the future festival areas- either way he was suffering for it now.

Reluctantly he pulled the jacket off, and found a seat to continue the restoration. Not long after he'd set to the task, a commotion arose nearby.

Rapid footfalls coupled with the disjointed shouts were enough to get anyone's attention. Apparently someone had helped themselves to the abundant jewels lying about and was trying to make off with them. Not that Kaiba was truly invested in the exchange- that was until the thief emerged from the crowd and snatched the brunette's jacket as part of his haul. There were still plenty of sparklies remaining on said jacket, afterall.]

That does it!

[Getting to his feet in an instant, Kaiba took off after the perpetrator]

GET BACK HERE!

[It was one thing to steal from some nobody that was careless with their decorations, and quite enough to steal from him. Spying a potential obstacle ahead, he called out to the nearest person that might be of aide.]

You there! Push that cart forward!

[If the stranger did as instructed, said cart would cut off the thief's forward progression.]

IV. WILDCARD

[OOC: If you have an idea then run with it, and I'll follow!]

I.

[fffffclass]

[ Well...that's one way to greet people. Wow. Kids these days. Have some respect for your elders! Yoojin gets a little distracted walking around, and this is the treatment he receives...this punk.

Though. He probably should've been a little more aware of his surroundings, he supposes. But still! ]

Is that how someone asking a favour should talk? [ s i g h ] This is another world...apparently. No one's told you yet?

[ why is this guy so tall, seriously ]