songerein | { test drive #02

Entry tags:

{ test drive #02 - november 2021 }

✵ TEST DRIVE MEME: NOVEMBER ✵
Reminder that our Test Drive Memes double as an Intro Log and threads can be carried over in-game. They are also required for samples. Note: the TDM timeframe is the start of November, after the Halloween events. Refer to the Game Info for general information and feel free to toss any TDM related questions here. Reserves are open and Applications will open on November 1st. The next application cycle won't be until March, 2022.

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. 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.]

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, so walking around and to see what all there is might be a good idea. The town has filled in a bit, but it's still larger than the current population and there are a few small fae and small wild critters who have made a few nests so just watch your step—or head. Some could venture out to the farmlands and beyond...just be careful.

D. Dreambucks Café. There is a certain quaint little café back in the Plaza that is known for its refreshing and unique teas and drinks. Called Dreambucks, it's staffed by friendly tea fairies and primarily serves tea and small cakes. Their teas and foods 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:

Caramel Delight. A caramel flavored tea with a few spices to add a little warmth to the taste. Just a few sips will make anyone want to find the nearest fireplace, grab a blanket, and settle in as they reminisce on happier moments.

Cranberry Cheer. A strong, flavorful cold juice that will renew one's vigor by leaps and bounds. ...And also make one leap and bound away through their day. Drinking this will inspire one to spread good tidings and festive feelings, be it left over from Halloween or some other seasonal festivity they may be familiar with. General good will to all is also an option.

Hazelnut Hot Chocolate. This warm drink can be topped with moon and star shaped marshmallows and is a perfect alternative for those who may prefer a more mellow drink. A drink of this will develop a want to share stories from nostalgic memories to riveting adventures to chilling horrors—whatever may be on their one or feel creative to make up.

Although it doesn't always happen, sometimes the drinks 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: There is no currency in the world and everything served is free at this time. 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. CANDY CHAOS

Despite the dramatic events that occurred during the dreamscape and the after effects still waiting to be seen, some good things happened as a result of the Halloween festivities. Looking ahead to other holidays, a few people are trying their hand in making candies. After all, they all can't rely on the fae for everything and with new resources at their disposal, there's no excuse now.

A. Candy Mining. One morning a few friendly gnomes that dwell beneath the town pop up and announce that one of the caves has changed from normal rock crystals to candy rock crystals. More strangely, once mined they change color and flavor depending on the person's emotions or their last dream is at the time the candy rock crystal is removed. Ready to create something new, various candy makers send out requests for various "flavors" to experiment. People are welcome to try and create their own kind of candy or other crafts with the new candy rock crystals as well. However, the gnomes will warn that the candy rock crystals may explode if anyone who had strong nightmares or extreme emotions touch them, even after they are extracted. So take care!

B. Cotton Candy Sheep. A new type of sheep has been discovered (or introduced? Who is to say—) roaming just outside of the farmlands and it appears their wool is made out of cotton candy. While one might be wary of eating straight off the animal, it is said the wool is not only delicious, but could actually be used in clothing if processed correctly. Of course, that still needs to be tested so who knows if it's true. For now, some would like to herd them to the corrals, however they are fast and flighty creatures, capable of hopping several tens of feet into the air and float away. The best way to lure them is to create hard candy wind chimes as they are not only attracted to the sound, but also the taste. The sweeter and crunchier, the better.

C. Trick Candy. Halloween may be over, but the idea of using candy for silly pranks is eternal. One day there will be full "joke" shops around, but for now candy will be the focus. A contest is being held for anyone to not only learn how to make candy, but devise ways for them to turn into fun pranks. Turning one's tongue a different color is too basic, how about something that could change the entire body? Or hair if that's too difficult. Those not part of the creative process will also be exposed to the end products—and failures. Some taffy rope that's decided to slither around and tie people together, a giant jawbreaker expanding to the size of a large boulder rolling down the streets, people taste testing bubble gum now floating in the air—the possibilities are endless.

III. DREAMSCAPE TUTORIAL: HAUNTED TOY HOUSE

To help everyone understand their dreamwalking abilities, the tapirs will ask anyone who is willing to gather around the Dream Swings in the Central Plaza. There anyone is invited to sit in the chairs or hammocks and focus on their dream crystal lanterns to enter a special dreamscape made just for them. Those watching might find the sight of everyone suddenly turning into a colorful ball of light and disappearing alarming, but that's just the normal process of entering a dream. When someone leaves the dream, they will briefly reappear as that light before returning to their original form. The theme for this dreamscape is Haunted Toy House with everyone stuck in a life sized doll house filled with cursed toys.

A. Feeling a bit stiff. Upon entering the dreamscape, some dreamwalkers may find themselves looking a bit like a cursed toy, so hopefully no one mistakes them as an enemy. The form can vary from a wooden doll to a plush toy and always with some kind of corruption or missing piece. A truly ghastly appearance that would scare any child and spawn nightmares. While in this form, dreamwalkers may find their abilities a bit altered to fit the form.

B. House Traps. There are numerous rooms in this strange house, and some might even feel they are in a piece of Escher artwork instead with stairs going here and there and upside down. With it being a dreamscape, the concept of gravity is certainly otherworldly here. While some rooms are harmless, others are filled with traps. Spikes shooting down from ceilings; doors sealed shut as the walls close in; floors turning into black goop or disappearing completely. It's a giant maze and one has to wonder if that giant exit sign is real or another trap (it's another trap). Best way to disarm the traps and obstacles is using one's imagination and test out those dreamotion abilities.

C. Corrupt Toys. Inhabiting the house are several toys ready to pounce on their new "visitors." Fortunately they can be beaten back easily and can be "purified" to return to their original state. All it requires is a nice "injection" of positive dreamotion energy, though how that can happen varies. A healing spell, a smack from a weapon created from positive feelings, encouraging words—the toys just feel lonely and abandoned. Playing with them may also help turn them into allies. The more toys "purified," the less corrupt the house will be in turn. However, if more become corrupted instead, things will turn into even more of a dangerous nightmare and noctaere may start appearing.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[She made the exchange and smirked.]

I worked with the crew that helps feed all of Revenant's Toll. Making the stomach roar is one of the perks of my passion. Now, let's see what you've added to my collection...

[She'll just snap off a bit of this bright green and give it a taste. The pink given was strangely fizzy on the tongue, yet a strawberry jam flavor, while the red was like that first big bite of an apple just picked, still warm from the sunshine.

Who knew one could impart their own personal food weirdness and nostalgia into crystals?]

[ thank the gods both of these taste delicious! alisaie is particularly fond of the fizzy strawberry jam - she'll save half of that one for later. ]

Oh, what a coincidence; like as not I've had a taste of your cuisine, then.

[ alisaie isn't always in revenant's toll, given that her work takes her all across eorzea and further, but given that the scions' home base is there, she's had her fair share of dinners there during moons of downtime.

also, the fiery orange is a sweet ginger flavor, while the green is.. fresh grass. sorry. ]

Haha, more than likely- adventuring burns calories, so me and the crew do what we can to make sure nobody wastes away. But some of the Scions seem to have a problem with remembering they're mortal and need sustenance- oh. ...huh...

[Ah. So this is what the food ate every day. Can't say she was much of a fan. It was bitter, tangy and dry.]

O-oh, that's... soundly grass. How did you get that one?

Grass? Ah, my apologies.. like as not that was the memory of racing my brother across an open field.

[ he totally lost, the nerd. more importantly, however - ]

And excuse me, I resemble that remark.

[ she says testily, though her smile suggests she feels otherwise. ]

I wonder if I've sampled your cuisine.

[She wouldn't be the slightest bit surprised knowing who won. That poor nerd. Still, she smirked despite the distinct taste of grass on the tongue.]

You likely have. I like to add my own twists to dishes when I've the opportunity, but some things are very set in stone: How Lady Y'shtola likes her tea, for instance.

But if your plate's ever been something made from a slow-roasted meat, be it for sandwiches, soups, pies, and especially buns, you can bet it was something of mine. When you hunt the damned beasts yourself, you take it upon yourself to make sure it's taken care of. Xaelan specialty.

[ alisaie's brows arch high; how has she not met this person before? though to be honest, she takes most of her meals in seventh heaven, at least. but, ah - ]

I see; well that may explain it. I've more of a taste for sweet things, when I can help it.

[ her sweet tooth is powerful.. ]

Still, it is a small wonder that we have never met.

I can't be entirely surprised; you guys are terribly busy and even a rest period between dire circumstances are few and far between. I've also been drawn on the occasional afternoon of baking orders that need doing, and making croissants alone is a time-consuming endeavor.

Being a sweet tooth, the coming season must be an immense treat for you. I've a few fruit danish ideas bouncing around what needs be made a Reverein reality... and may need taste testers.

[ ah, you have charmed her instantly. alisaie's brows lift high. ]

Well, I certainly would be hard pressed to refuse you. Speaking of which -

[ she returns to her bucket of rock candy, sifting through it. ]

Would you like to trade more, or are you content with your delicious grass flavor?

You've given me a... rustic flavor. But you know what? Let's do one more, and then I'll tap out and scurry home with my collection.

[Let's see... she selected a white crystal, then a tawny yellow one.]

I'll wager these!

[ rustic, sure, that's a nice way of putting it... anyway alisaie doesn't seem to mind the risk, so she smiles and digs through her own bucket, before offering up a pale blue crystal, and a creamy orange one, in her palm. ]

It's a trade, then.

[ she'll be taking those! ]

[Trade complete! You know what, she'll taste the blue one. Meanwhile, the tawny crystal would have the flavor of... butter? No, syrup... wait, is this some kind of breakfast? The white was definitely a meat bun.]

No take-backs! ...But I will pray this blue one isn't a pudding or something.

[ the meat bun one earns a strange look, for that's not the sort of flavor you associate with something like a rock candy, and the dissonance between taste and texture is a little jarring, but oh, that breakfast one! delicious butter and syrup.. alisaie looks pleased indeed. ]

Oh this is a good one! Sweet and buttery..

[ for her part, the light blue crystal tastes like how rain smells, if petrichor and ozone were a flavor, probably not quite so gross as grass, but strange certainly. the orange one however tastes something like an orange creamsicle, or orange soda float. ]

[Xaela and buuz are like peanut butter and bananas. Couldn't help that one, sorry!]

Ooh... I think that may have come from memories of doing part-time work in Limsa. Chef Lyngsath is a real dzo, but I don't know where my cooking would be without his tutelage. Breakfast rushes were... well, a rush.

[A pause to savor the taste.]

Dreamotion is rather fascinating... I never thought I'd taste fresh rainfall before.

[ i mean, alisaie offered grass, no need to be sorry about anything tbh.. ]

Well, I am very glad to be taking this one off of your hands.

[ she won't be making anything fancy out of it, but she'll sure love eating it later!! ]

Rainfall? That sounds quite pleasant, actually. Must've been the rains in the Shroud.

I don't blame you in the slightest; the Shroud truly is a marvel during a rain. Good hunting out there, too.

[She began to sort her stones. May as well ready them up to take home and taste test before deciding what makes a good sculpture and what's something funny to set aside for ~~pranks~~ stories later.]

Which does remind me that I should check on my pelts pretty soon. I thank you oh so much for indulging me with some trades, Miss...

[She paused, rubbed her chin. What phrase did she come up with to help memorize the names? 'The sister saies and the brother nauds'?]

Aliiii... saie?

[ good thing for madhuri that she doesn't call her by the wrong name, or this nice little exchange could have ended badly!! gods she sure does get tired of being called alphinaud. ]

Alisaie, yes.

[ it's not an easy name for people to remember, she understands that much, at least; elezen naming conventions can be, uh.. very, very french. ]

And you don't need to thank me, it was your idea! And a good one, at that. I'll absolutely be enjoying this syrupy one later tonight.

Oh, thank goodness. All the ways the kitchen staff has fought to prevent mixing you two up have been terribly unhelpful, so I'm glad my method has struck true.

[She laughed in victory and stood, gathering up her basket all the while.]

Enjoy your syrupy stone, dear. Should you ever feel hungry and grow tired of pixie fare, I would be happy to feed you.

[ whatever that method is, she will be curious to know soon enough.. but for now she shall happily release madhuri from grass and rain tasting hell. for now she remains sitting, resting her arms against the edge of her basket. ]

You can be sure I may take you up on that in the future! Take care.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

{ test drive #02 - november 2021 }

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good to wrap up!!