songerein | { test drive #07

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{ test drive #07 - august 2022 }

✵ 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.

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!
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.

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.

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.
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?

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[Zhongli would suggest they enter into a contract to formalize their agreement, but he knows Venti would laugh in his face if he did. Just getting him to agree verbally is good enough for the old God of Contracts.]

[People are most definitely staring, much to Zhongli's chagrin. He allows Venti to dangle on his back until the cafe comes up into view. When it does, Zhongli comes to a stop, glancing over his shoulder.]

I am looking forward to it. But first, I think we are close enough that you can use your own two legs. I don't think the cafe staff would appreciate our current stance.

[A verbal contract is the best Zhongli will ever get out of Venti, it's true. And even then Venti might not always keep his word.

The comment makes Venti pout and he lets out a small sigh before letting himself release from being Zhongli's backpack. Landing on his feet as gracefully as the wind.]

If you say so. Now, let's get a table and the strongest pot of hot tea this place can offer! Please!

[Venti will make their way over to a table near the open window where they can relax. He sits and leans his chin on his palms.]

Now then. We have quite a lot to catch up on. I wonder where I should start? Did you know your dear adeptus has been staying in this world as well?

[Zhongli lets out a small grunt once Venti is off his back, subtly stretching a little to ease any soreness or stiffness that may settle in his muscles. Not that Venti weighed a particularly great amount to cause such stress. He brushes his clothes off and follows Venti into the cafe, and soon sits down at the table in the chair opposite to Venti.]

That we do. It has been quite some time since we last had a chance to speak like this.

[The last time they had a chance to sit down and talk... well, that was long before Barbatos's long slumber, wasn't it? Time may be wonky to immortals like them, but it was still a long time. But he does perk up when Venti mentions a certain adeptus.]

Is that so... I have yet to see him here, so I was unaware that he was here as well. [He has to make a mental note to check in on Xiao. Though he kept his distance, he always did make sure to keep an eye on the youngest of his yakshas.]

And I take it that if you knew he was here, you've had the honour of meeting him?

[Zhongli, after all these years he's still always so prim and proper. Venti can't help the tiny little fond smile he gets as Zhongli fusses with his clothing. Venti supposes he can't complain, the man looks very nice and handsome as always.

Time flows different for beings like them. Five hundred years is a stretch of time that most would baffle at. But to them it's a period where old friends must catch up.]

I have! He's been a delight although he has frowns that could rival yours.

[He giggles fondly.]

While there are some struggles he faces here I think he's adjusted as well as he can. I think he'll be happy to see you.

[As the freshly order pot of hot tea is set on the table alongside cups and a few biscuit treats...]

But tell me about you! What have you been doing all these years, Zhongli?

[Old habits die hard, especially with such a traditional person like Zhongli. While he won't comment on any mentions of handsomeness, he does know that it's only proper to look professional, especially in his line of work.]

[Zhongli mutters a word of thanks to their server, before going about taking his time to carefully pour two cups of tea. Whether Venti will drink his is unknown, but it's only polite to pour the other Archon a cup. He gives a displeased hum at Venti at the frown comment, instead choosing to address the second part of Venti's comments.]

Though his dedication to his duty is admirable, I know that Xiao's afflictions can be quite hard on him. I will have to make sure I am able to find some Remedium Tertiorum while I am here, or at the very least an acceptable substitute. But I am glad to hear that he is adjusting well here.

[He may keep from butting in personally, he really does care for the young adeptus. Even if he finds Venti irritating, he is pleased to hear that the Anemo Archon has been keeping an eye on Xiao. Setting the teapot down, he picks up his teacup, but doesn't drink it yet, contemplating his answer.]

What have I been doing? Well... I suppose you could say I have been preparing for the recent turn of events. I've no doubt that you've heard of the most recent Rite of Descension.

[The one where he, you know, faked his death and all.]

[With the teacup placed in front of him Venti will pick it up and give it a curious little sniff. He honestly hates tea it tastes like weak leaf juice and nothingness but he'll give the tea the benefit of the doubt. For Zhongli.

And he's pleased to hear that Zhongli will come to check in on Xiao too. He's not surprised. Both archons are very fond of the yaksha in their own ways.]

I'm sure he'll be delighted to see you. He might even give you a tiny smile.

[He teases. But he knows that Xiao has been missing his geo lord. ~~as much as that might annoy venti just a little bit~~]

Oh, did I ever hear about it. The stories hit Mondstadt faster than the Spring rains. Did you have fun?

[Venti knew Zhongli wasn't dead the whole time. He would have felt it. But he let everyone make their own assumptions.]

Hmm. Should he feel the need to. I do not push him to do things that he is uncomfortable with.

[Geez, Venti, stop teasing his youngest yaksha?? But he knows Venti is only doing so in good faith. It does make him regard Venti with a curious look. Venti always had a tendency to tease something he really liked. Hmm... Curious.]

[While Venti might hesitate to drink the tea, Zhongli will go ahead and bring the cup to his lips and take a sip. Hmm... a unique flavour. He lets out a hum of appreciation, before slowly lowering it.]

I would not call it fun... but it was quite relieving to see that Liyue could stand on its own in my absence.

[Don't think too hard about Venti teasing Xiao, now. It's nothing to worry about right now... Ehe.

But he is actually happy to see Zhongli enjoying the tea. It might be a boring tasteless hot drink but he knows how much Zhongli appreciates tea. And it reminds him of the old days.]

I never thought you to be the type to be so dramatic in the first place. [He sips his tea and then sticks his tongue out... Bleh.] But for you to take a page out of my book is flattering, Zhongli.

[To let the people live freely as they choose.]

[He won't think too hard now, but... it's info that will get filed away for later, stored on a proverbial shelf like many other tidbits and memories he possesses. Something to ponder later, when he has the time.]

[A small smirk tugs at the corners of his mouth as he sees Venti attempt to drink the tea. Still so childish after all these years... but the familiarity feels nice. He takes another sip of his own tea before he replies.]

I would not consider it dramatic, per se... but rather, a culmination of many years's thoughts and planning finally come to fruition. A rockslide may seem sudden to one who has not witnessed the erosion of the cliffside beneath the stones over the years.

[He can't help the faint chuckle that bubbles in his chest at Venti's words.]

Perhaps I am, in a way. I have governed my people for so many years... It had never occurred to me to consider my own duties may have been fulfilled. Though... I will admit, though I have tasted a sample of four proverbial freedom, I find myself at a loss of what to do with it now that it has fallen into my hands.

[There's a special affection for the other man that glitters in Venti's eyes. They have always been respectful gods of each other's people and land. Where Venti has always been free to travel to Liyue and enjoy the festivals there and visit the old geo lord as much as he wants Venti has never pushed his own ideals onto Zhongli. He was a kind and stern leader who always did the best he could for his people. And how he did it through contracts and a spear is Zhongli's own business. Just as Venti's own choice to let the people always decide their own lives is his.

But he can't help but feel the flicker of pride that Zhongli has come to ... let himself take a break.]

You always did well by them. You'll always be known to them as their precious Rex Lapis, emperor and protector. Never forget that.

[Venti hums and sips his leaf hot water again.]

As for what to do now? I suppose you should enjoy the pleasures of the world as you see fit! Explore, experience and enjoy! Perhaps pick up a new hobby or two? I'm sure there is something that will spark joy in that old heart of yours. It can start in this world, too.

[Those words draw a small smile to Zhongli's face; Venti may be annoying and far too frivolous for Zhongli's tastes, but he does have a way with words. There's a reason the Anemo Archon was one renowned for his speech as much as his wine.]

Thank you, Barbatos. I will remember those words.

[Zhongli hums in amusement.]

A hobby, you say? Well, I suppose it is never too late to start a new endeavour. What sort of hobby would the Anemo Archon suggest?

[Venti gives the cup of tea another try and sips at it with a small smile. He's getting used to it even if he'd never pick to drink tea all that often.]

Hmm... You could always try your hand at knitting.

[Knitting?? Really? The great Rex Lapis? Why yes.]

Some say it could be quite therapeutic! Much like a sort of meditation!

Knitting, you say? Hmm... I have heard it can be quite relaxing. Do you speak from personal experience, to back such a claim?

[He says it as he sips his own tea, using the mug to hide his own small smile.]

[He waves a hand dismissively.]

Oh, not me. I tend to gravitate to more musically inclined hobbies.

Don't you know it's unbecoming to state such claims when you yourself have no knowledge or experience in the matter you're commenting on?

[But even though he says the words, there's no real bitterness or accusation to his tone.]

Well, as you said, I do have the time now. Perhaps I will find something to fill it with.

It's only a suggestion, after all! Does that mean I should suggest you pick up singing lessons too? Hmm?

[Well, he could actually teach Zhongli to sing now that he thinks about it! With that deep voice, he has... Oh oh. Oh no.]

Are you offering, Barbatos?

[He looks at Venti, an eyebrow raising.]

[Venti smiles quite happily.]

I wouldn't be opposed to teaching you if you wished to try! Ehe!

[Now both eyebrows raise, and Zhongli lets out an amused chuckle under his breath.]

Well, now, it would be rude of me to refuse personal lessons from the Anemo Archon himself, now wouldn't it? Should this be considered a formal agreement between the two of us?

[Is he serious?? Is he shitposting?? Hard to say!!]

[Zhongli better not be faking it- Venti would be very mad!]

A chance to teach you something and have you as a dutiful student? I would be more than happy to sign that agreement.

[But don't let Venti boss Zhongli around too much... Truth be told Venti is genuinely interested in hearing Zhongli's singing voice. If it's terrible or beautiful, Venti can work with it.]

The God of Freedom, agreeing to a contract? This truly is a world made of dreams.

[It's a good-natured jab, said with a chuckle.]

In that case, perhaps I will go forward with this arrangement. I think that while I am here, I can afford to attend at least one lesson. I am curious to see how well your teaching skills have improved over the centuries.

[He almost says it like a challenge.]

It's an agreement, not a contract.

[He corrects with a soft sigh. Ew, contracts are so gross don't say that to him.]

An agreement that I'll teach you something special. You'll be calling me teacher by the end of the lesson! Just call me Mr. Venti!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

{ test drive #07 - august 2022 }

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