Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

[faileas]

Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

Down, Down, Down The group leaves on the morning of the 16th, a band consisting of Mirrorbound, Theodore and Sowilo from the Coven, and one of the two returned Wilders to lead the way. The latter three will only be present for the first leg of the journey: from the North Gate to the Northern Outpost by teleporter, then a few hours' hike to the site. A tunnel yawns open, fallen rocks built up around it in mounds. Everyone is offered enchanted lanterns to light the way, and their guide takes them perhaps a mile down before he and the pair from the Coven must part ways with the Mirrorbound. The poorly-lit tunnel leads steadily downward. The way is marked by their gracious hosts to be, with arrows drawn in softly-glowing algae painting the walls so there is no mistaking which way to go; a good thing, because the deeper the party goes, the more tunnels branch off of the largest one, twisting and turning into the dark. It takes some hours to reach a familiar cavern lit with algae and glowing crystals, a herd of the velvet wormipedes idly milling about the small lake and stream that led into town in the dream. Much nicer long boats are set up and waiting to take them deeper, along with respectfully quiet Monster guards to steer them. They take a slightly different route from the dream, but before long, they reach the curtain of grayish green moss that dangles down into the water, stretched across the wide tunnel exit like a membrane. It parts on its own as the boats pass, though beware if you are infected by the Cwyld - it will not allow passage, only reach out long, tough tendrils to try and envelop you, the touch of it burning acid-bright where it is harmless for those uninfected. Past the curtain of strange moss, the cavern city opens up before them, vast and spacious, dimly lit with more algae, crystals, and softly glowing orbs of magic. It's like being plunged into an eternal twilight, somehow soft, cast in gentle colors. The boats bypass the markets this time, drifting farther down a branching stream into the city proper, to dock next to stone platforms. The winding streets and flowing canals branch out all around them with no rhyme or reason, the city sprung up around the natural layout of the caverns rather than the other way around. Buildings are carved out of tall stone spires, the windows and doors covered in fluttering silk, many of which are pulled away so that fascinated locals can peer out at the scene unfolding. The Matriarch herself comes to greet the group, ringed at the back by spear-carrying guards, all Monsters. A tall, long-limbed Arachne woman bearing battle scars and stark white hair, she looks perhaps in her 30s, and speaks with a booming, commanding voice, amplified by a charm. As she speaks, ten Wilders are released from silk rope bonds and nudged to join the Mirrorbound; they're a little roughed up, perhaps, and shaken, but none are seriously injured. A few Monsters also make the rounds, placing copper tokens in the hands of ten individuals. "Welcome, travelers! This meeting was foretold and so it has come to pass. During your stay you will be treated as our honored guests. You may come and go as you please, but we ask that you use the same tunnel you entered through; we have not yet re-secured the other entrances from Cwyld nor the tribes. I would hate for danger to befall you while you are under my care." Her smile is wide, her eight eyes bright, and her teeth are very sharp. "We have prepared temporary residences for your use. I hope you will stay for the celebrations. I look forward to meeting with some of you very soon." Notably, she does not mention the surface where from the Mirrorbound came, and those around her do not ask.

I. The City The Mirrorbound receive mixed reactions from the Underground. Some are fascinated by these visitors personally invited by the Matriarch and allowed past the markets; others are wary and suspicious, believing them to be wolves in sheep's clothing. In the city proper, most passing Monsters are armed, but this doesn't seem to be anything new. Still, step cautiously - plenty do not take well to even unknowing offense and will pick a fight, or may see these guests as easy, weak targets to pickpocket or mug in the dark corners of the twisting streets. The guards only step in if things take a turn for the worse or if the fight is very obviously imbalanced - they step in more for Witches being attacked than Monsters, because they feel Witches require protection more. Still, not all are so unscrupulous: more citizens are delighted to talk, even if they still seem skeptical about a whole world up above. Mirrorbound, as guests of the Matriarch, are given nearly free run of the city, allowed to explore such locations as the marketplace, the library, the shops, the schools (the Arena for Monsters and the Academy for Witches), and the tunnels and caverns outside the protective moss barriers. The only places they (and most locals) are expressly barred from are the Matriarch's audience hall, the upper level of the library, and the guards' barracks. a. The Marketplace The marketplace is much larger than previously thought - it rings the entire city, and stalls spill onto the streets of the inner city as well in a lazy sprawl. There are some shops with actual buildings, but they're fewer and more expensive: alchemy and apothecary shops, a couple of restaurants, a weapons shop or two, nice clothing shops. Most, though, are independent merchants who set up and take down their stalls every day and night. Any number of Underground-sourced foods, clothing, weapons, trinkets, and more can be found at the stalls; they barter, or exchange chips of precious metals and gems, but they'll take cune coins with fascination. The marketplaces are the liveliest areas of the city with Monsters and Witches alike, from all walks of life, mingling and sharing gossip and idle talk. Those who lost items to the burrowing hyenas at the Northern Outpost some months ago should keep an eye out: the hyenas are fairly common down here, serving the roles of pets or working dogs for Underground citizens, and a few merchants deal in more interesting goods. The missing items can be found scattered across some stalls, and the merchants will gleefully tell perusers that these things come from the surface, aren't they fascinating? Don't you want to buy? Luckily, it shouldn't be too hard to get your things back. They'll take all manner of interesting trinkets in trade. b. Library The library is bound to be a popular stop. Monsters get some strange looks if they enter the spire just off the courtyard from the Academy, but they aren't barred from entry; most just feel that reading is for Witches. The building is only two levels - one closed off at the top, guards keeping everyone out, and the rest is just one very tall floor ringed with a spiral of platforms and stairs to access the honeycomb-shaped shelves built into the walls. All their books are written on scrolls of silk, and the librarians bark at patrons to be delicate with them, some are very old. If one has endless time, the scrolls can offer a look at life Underground: historical accounts of past Matriarchs, brave warriors and battles against nomadic tribes or hideous beasts, their history as they know it, scrolls on offensive and defensive magic for Witches, fighting techniques for Monsters, information on their unique flora and creatures that can be found outside the city, and even plenty of fiction - sword and sorcery novels all set in the tunnels and the city. It's just a bit difficult to find what, specifically, you're looking for, because if there's any kind of organization, it only makes sense to the deep-dwelling denizens. Maybe make it a team effort! You'll also need some simple translation spells, because their system of writing is quite different to the common system in Aefenglom; even then, it may not be accurate on older scrolls. c. The Guest Villa Those who choose to spend several days in the Underground are given modest accommodations in a tall stone building. These guest chambers boast gentle lighting, wide beds, backless sofas, potted decorative fungi, and stone furniture. It's... cozy, with humble individual rooms and larger common rooms for gathering. The algae grows in delicate patterns across the walls, pulsing in soft colors. They've gone out of their way to provide what comfort they can, but there aren't enough rooms for everyone to have their own - everyone will need to share with one or two others, so choose someone you can get along with.

II. The Tunnels Mirrorbound are not restricted only to the city. There are many entrances to the cavern where it resides, the openings all covered with sheets of that same gray-green moss; some wider tunnels obviously see more use than other, narrower ones, and the footpath of many Underground denizens is easy enough to trace, the stone worn smooth. The path to the velvet wormipede cavern is one of them; they're raised as livestock, all at once food, transportation, and producers of silk and hide for clothing. This is much the same as the dream. Another well-worn tunnel leads upward to an agricultural center, though, and still more lead out into the wild. They're warned, but not hindered, before they leave for anywhere other than the farms or the livestock cavern; dangers abound in the Underground. Those who do much wandering may notice something going on as well; the guards stationed at each tunnel mouth can often be found talking to each other in low voices about an unknown red algae that seems to be growing on the protective moss. It can be found primarily around the lesser-used tunnels so far, starkly bright against the dull green, and this seems to be a point of concern... a. A Botanist's Dream It's a short walk down a wide, inviting tunnel to reach the place where the city grows fungi and underground plants for food and medicine. Large rats and hyenas both are present to keep opportunist creatures and insects from demolishing the carefully-cultivated beds of rock and soil, and small blind fish swim about in the large pool of shallow water, in which grows something like seaweed. One of their primary sources of food, besides bug and rat, are mushrooms of many sorts - all the types that grow in the farms are edible, though some may be an... acquired taste. The Fauns and Witches who tend the beds are happy to offer samples of anything that can be eaten raw; they're most enthusiastic about a type of spherical mushroom whose cap opens up to reveal what tastes and feels like savory cotton candy, and a type of flat fungi that tastes sweet and fizzy and offers a heightened good mood for an hour after. b. The Wild Underground The lesser used tunnels are a different story. A mile out from the city, Cwyld runs in thick black veins through the stone walls, infecting the sparse plants and many creatures that live out there. Careful not to touch. Infected and uninfected creatures both are highly dangerous to explorers, including stone-burrowing moles with wicked teeth and claws that can cut through metal like butter, vicious white wasps that carry lethal venom, and berserker vampire bats that survive on the blood of other animals and people alike. Some infected fungi give off blindingly-bright flashes when disturbed, while others will cause rashes and blisters on contact. Explorers are warned not to touch anything if they can help it. As well, the nomad tribes roam the less-civilized tunnels and caverns. These are small bands of usually Monsters of different types in mixed groups, though some can be found dragging humans along with them. Nearly all of them are some degree of feral, and plenty bear Cwyld infections in different stages of seriousness. They don't stop to ask questions before they'll attack anyone, including each other, in hopes of robbing them blind and leaving them for dead. As vicious and quick as they are, perhaps it's no wonder they value strength in the city?

III. Graduation Day (21st - 23rd) The Underground does not have 'Litha' as Aefenglomites know it, but come the 21st, they do have a major celebration. They simply call it the New Year, or Graduation Day, depending on what festivities are asked about, because the three days serve as both. At this time of year, with more magic in the air, the algae and crystals glow much brighter, cycling naturally through different colors that cast beautiful rainbows across the imposing stone structures. This display is how they mark the start of a new year, and it coincides with the graduation of young Monsters from the Arena and Witches from the Academy. The New Year is a time to celebrate Bonding, partying, and showing off one's skills in the hopes of attracting a new Bondmate or romantic partner. Tensions can also rise high as rivalries are settled, and small brawls in the streets are common; the guards don't interfere, again, unless things get too dangerous. They're content to let citizens work out their own issues, but unfortunately, this means Mirrorbound may get dragged in on occasion! Small fights are also a tried and true tradition to show off one's abilities around this time of year. It serves multiple purposes: attracting a Bondmate, establishing a place in the unspoken hierarchy of the city, and working out problems with others. Monsters are more likely to start brawls than Witches, though it isn't wholly uncommon to bear witness to two rival Witches throwing spells at each other in an alleyway over their grievances. They're more likely to be stopped, as magic can be quite destructive. a. A Matching Pair The un-Bonded should take precautions during the New Year celebrations. These fascinating newcomers are bound to draw the eye of curious locals, and they may put on a violent or flashy show trying to draw your attention in return! The most common way to show that you're already taken during the celebrations is with face-painting: several stands set up around the marketplace with cosmetics and brushes, and two (or three, or more) people painting matching designs on their faces and bodies signify them as a set - either Bonded or intending to Bond. That doesn't mean there won't still be competition for your heart, but it will lessen significantly, especially if you're a Monster-Witch pair already. b. Exhibitions Primarily intended for the graduating classes of Monsters and Witches, the exhibitions are an official stage set for their coming-of-age; this year, however, the Matriarch has decreed that Mirrorbound may participate as well, in the interests of getting to know one another! They're interested to see what these strange travelers can do, especially against some of their own. Mirrorbound are encouraged by excitable locals if they seem reticent, but of course, no one is forced. (Just don't be surprised if you're called a coward for refusing!) At the Arena, a massive sunken ring with stone benches for spectators ringing the whole of it, young Monsters learn combat skills, with and without weapons, and how to harness their unique physiologies in the dangerous world of the Underground. Their yearly exhibition fights take place all through the three days of the New Year, and young Monsters battle each other til first blood to the cheers and jeers of citizens (and more importantly, Witches) come to watch. The longer the battle, the more impressive it is - and Monster Mirrorbound will have no shortage of eager opponents wanting to test their skills against the unknown. Generally, the fights result in bruises, small cuts, and little else, but rivals for the same Witch might take it farther on purpose before they're wrenched away from each other by the teachers. Meanwhile, at the Academy, the tallest stone spire building in the city, young Witches learn magic from a young age. It isn't exactly the same as magic taught at the Coven, but many concepts are similar - barriers, evocation, enchantments meant for weapons or shields, healing, most of the magic they're taught at this younger age is for combat, protection or practical purposes. They only learn more frivolous magics after graduation. Much like their Monster counterparts, they give solo or duet shows of their flashier and more impressive magical skills in the courtyard, with many citizens coming to watch and take stock of the new generation. Mirrorbound Witches may find themselves being cajoled into putting on a show of their own by curious locals wanting to know what kinds of magic are taught elsewhere.

IV. Aefenglom - Litha (21st - 23rd) Meanwhile, for those who have chosen to stay above-ground or those who have left early, Litha comes once more to Aefenglom, bringing with it beautiful pink and purple skies, a far departure from last year's red tint. It has the city in a much cheerier mood for the celebrations. While they know that several Mirrorbound left for a while, they don't seem too aware of the actual mission, and have very little to say on the matter - they'd rather have a nice Litha, after last year's bad omens! Many of the activities from last year return, better than before, including the brothels opening up their doors (showing off all the wonderful new styles in lingerie!), collecting flowers to put under one's pillow in order to dream of future partners, and wandering the hedge mazes that have been magically constructed in certain parts of the city. Seeing off ships happens regularly as well, citizens setting floating candles into the harbor and river to wish them luck. a. Love Boats A new attraction for Litha is being rolled out this year right on the River Temese! Near the gate, an enterprising Faun has set up a few small boats, each just big enough for two and shielded with fine gauzy curtains for privacy. Couples are invited to buy a ride down the river together, assured it will certainly set the mood. Those who have no partners are offered (or cajoled) to be randomly paired with someone, because perhaps it's fate! The boats drift lazily down the river and stop on their own next to a small dock right before they reach the Harbor. Unless you're willing to swim, hopefully you like your boat partner, because you're stuck with them the whole ride. b. Predictive Pools One bathhouse in the Entertainment District has laid an enchantment on one of their semi-public baths for Litha. When two people stand in the water together, bare, it will begin to glow and take on one of a handful of colors that they say will predict the pair's compatibility level! Sexually, romantically? Well, why not both? The only thing is, they've lost the instructions, and cannot seem to remember what color means "most compatible" and what color means "not compatible at all"... As a reminder, all sexual content should be clearly marked in comment headers, or else moved to a comm-locked log or personal inbox! Be good to each other.

Welcome to June's Event Log, What Lies Beneath! The Underground will be open until mid-July at minimum, and possibly longer. Characters can come and go if they're willing to make the trip multiple times. As always, please direct your questions here! The NPC threads will take place here. Aaand, the Action Tracker is right here! Make sure to let us know what your characters have been up to, good and bad, by July 7th, as this will help determine how Mirrorbound-Underground relations might proceed in the future!

Comments

[supersoldier]

In that case, since Sephiroth does have a thread planned with the Matriarch, I’m assuming he would have an opportunity to request to inspect the second floor in that same thread? Orrrr would the answer be “no” regardless of the reasoning he spins?

[moustre]

The head librarian can translate them very roughly for a suitable bribe. They turn out to be names, and very old records of causes of deaths (such as "blinded by fire in sky, fell in ravine", "mauled by unknown beast", "contracted infection, too contagious to retrieve") - perhaps deaths that happened on the surface, except as far as she's aware, none of them go to the surface, because it's all overtaken by Cwyld, right? How strange, how strange.

[moustre]

He can ask, but she will likely not give permission. Still she may elaborate on what kinds of records are kept up there if asked.

[supersoldier]

Perfect! I’ll look for an opportunity to weave that into the thread. Thank you!

[glitzandglamour]

A standard new-city question so I can be prepared for when I hit this log (WHEN I AM RELEASED FROM FINALS BY TONIGHT...!!): how do the people of the city respond to very obviously metal robots?

In addition, if a Puca were to successfully shapeshift into a normal human (maybe with the wrong amount of fingers probably), would anybody be able to detect that he wasn't a Witch?

I'll certainly have more Qs later!

[mensrea]

AWESOME, thank you mods!

[moustre]

They don't have even Victorian style robots, so he will garner much confusion. Living metal? How?

They probably would take him at his word that he's a Witch while he's in shapeshifted form. If they had suspicions (from, say, him not performing any magic), they'd be more along the lines of 'You flunked out of Witch school, didn't you?'

[silentsavant]

[He cranes in a bit as invited to watch and listen at a respectful distance, curiosity rising, and then....

—Ah. So that's what it is. His face falls ever so slightly into disappointment, but since the fair and fanged witch is taking more pains than he'd asked to translate it for him, he might as well accept whatever grains of knowledge come from such a story. Fiction can shed light upon culture, after all. And it does say something about this man's penchant for gathering information if he can identify which stories are popular. That, or his luck navigating this organizational labyrinth led him down many paths of the make-believe.]

Is that so... What's different about this one?

[cryptsleeper]

[It has AO3 tags at the start of the scroll.]

The character perspective is entirely different. This seems to be written in the second person.

[Alucard scoots himself off to the side, in case Soren wishes to take a look at the translated version himself.]

May I ask what it was you were initially seeking?

Hector | Castlevania

[petcromancer]

Underground
A. Graduation

[The scowl on Hector's face might be more effective if he was a predator-type monster, but he's still trying to keep the suitors away with sheer force of will. Yes, he's a faun, but that doesn't mean he wants to be propositioned on the street when he has more important business to attend to. The moss down here isn't going to study itself, damn it!]

Very impressive. Go try it for someone who cares. [He growls at a particularly pushy witch who insists on making a show of juggling glowing orbs of light.

He looks around for a Mirrorbound, any Mirrorbound, to walk beside just to have a few moment's peace. Fake date until they get away from the Jareth wannabe, anybody?]

B. Marketplace

[The animals beneath the surface don't look like the normal definition of 'pets', but that doesn't stop Hector's eyes going wide and soft when he sees a hatching wormipede or a hyena or a giant rat. They could be...important research subjects...]

Do they have any sensitivity to sunlight? .... Well, yes, I guess you wouldn't know, but have any ever tried to leave the tunnels?

[He's hard at work trying to find out everything required to care for a juvenile velvet worm from a vendor who insists 'the meat is fresh and tastes best fried.']

C. Tunnels, Closed to Alucard

[The underground dwellers have been mostly open to the presence of the Mirrorbound, but one thing they are protective of is their moss. If Hector wants a sample to study, he's going to have to be sneaky about it.

It's a peaceful expedition, so he brought Cezar with him. The little pup is great cover for wandering away from the city for walkies, and nobody thinks twice when he leans down to pet the dog and scoop up samples of various lichen and fungi he spots. It's a perfect set-up, and also an excuse to bring his dog along for the trip.

Hector has an opaque jar all prepared, so that there will be no danger of accidental sunlight exposure once he gets the spores above ground. He peels off down one of the tunnels that leads to the 'farms'.

He's hoping for an empty expanse of cave, so of course, he doesn't get it. Right now, it's just one person in sight, but it's the worst possible one. Alucard.]

Friend! Friend! [Cezar yips. Hector's far enough along with his faun transformation that he gets snatches of meaning from animals sometimes. It's more and more frequent with Cezar, since they are so close.]

Shh, not a friend. Hush, he'll see us. [Hector shushes, not wanting to have to deal with the dhampir.]

Aefenglom

A. Boats

[Hector's not single, precisely, but he is currently unbonded. And a boat ride isn't some big commitment. Hector likes boats, when they aren't on the open sea, soaking his fur with ocean spray. So why not hazard a ride with someone random?

He offers a hand to the other Mirrorbound to help them step on.]

After you.

B. Baths

['Predictive color' is a load of rot. Hector is here to take a quick soak in the baths, not to measure his compatibility. The water is clear and gloriously warm when he steps into it, and he'd prefer it stay that way.

Of course, it's a busy festival night, so fat chance of that happening. Hector's eyes are closed and his body almost fully submerged when someone else enters. A shimmer of magic rushes through the water, and Hector cracks his eyes open.]

Pink? What does that even mean? Fuck, this better not stain.

[He's covered in white wool, that would be a fucking disaster.]

C. Maze, Closed to Saori

[There is something about a hedge maze that Hector's faun instincts just can't resist. Mystery, plants, mischief... Hector the Forgemaster wouldn't have been drawn in, but Hector the faun is here, hooves clomping on the brick walkway, trying to navigate to the middle of the maze for some reason he can't really comprehend.]

What is it you're supposed to do...always turn left? No, that doesn't make sense.

[He's got a decent sense of direction, but it's still impossible to know a place he's never been to before. Time for some trial and error. And hopefully no jump scares while he tries to find his way.]

D. Flowers, Closed to Dimitri

[It's late into the first day of the festival when Hector sees the flier outside of the florist's shop. Limited time flowers... available only during the festival. He needs them.

But getting to seven different locations, within a limited amount of time, during a wild party... it's beyond what one faun can do.

Hector looks around for help. Yes, there, the blond chimera from his last quest. If anyone is capable of a single-minded task during the festivities, it's Dimitri.]

Hey, wait up! [He calls after the blond, bounding after him as he walks by.] Are you doing anything right now? I need your help.

Wildcard
[[Have another idea? Toss it at me!]]

[faithlikeaseed]

CLAPS, excellent!! I'm now imagining these Fauns having a long, serious conversation about the relative merits of introducing new plants to an ecosystem and deciding what's a safe trade good and what's not. The content I'm here for.

(He's totally not pulling their hooves and brought slow-growing stuff to reduce the risk of invasive nonsense.)

Follow-ups:

Rats & worms: AWESOME. Would they be too sun-sensitive to be comfortable living in daylight topside? Or would they be able to adapt, with or without Witch help?

Red algae: HM INDEED. Are any of their local algae-eaters interested in it? Is it only growing on the moss curtains or has it been spotted anywhere else? Do they have any kind of control methods for the glowing algae and do those work on the red or not?

[petcromancer]

You know I'm gonna be up in here about these new plants.

1. If a mirrorbound were to take some samples of the red algae, A. would it be confiscated when they leave the Underground or go back to the city? B.How thoroughly will they be checked? C. Would the hanging moss react to its presence?

2. Still on that hanging moss: Would Hector be able to snag a spore or two on the way in or out of it? He is bringing opaque sample jars to keep them from being exposed to sunlight on the way out.

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard has been enjoying the Underground immensely, thank you very much. Besides the little things, like the fact Trevor is not bound by sunlight schedules, the sheer thrill of the new and uncataloged is absolutely everything to him. The dhampir's taken to balancing his days between the library, exploring the tunnels, and then lazing with his partners.

This morning? Tunnels. Notebook and writing implements in his satchel, a few jars along with him. Ad then--

--well. Cezar's bark is distinct. He likes the dog just fine, but ugh. Hector.

He'll make himself known, just so they can keep away from each other properly.]

Unfortunately, I can hear you.

[lostinshadows]

I might have missed this, but:

- Is the language in the Underground different than in Aefenglom? Given that the writing system would be different from what is commonly seen.

- Following the above, is it possible for anyone to be able to learn it (language/writing system)? Let's say someone is hoping to be able to learn the writing system better to be able to read old scrolls without needing to ask help for translation spells....

[long_live_the_queen]

Regarding the library, what other information besides fighting techniques does it have regarding Monsters? Origin stories or theorycrafting and the like, particularly about Chimeras.

[moustre]

1. The rats will adjust fine when introduced gradually to light. They're hardy little ("little") buggers. The velvet worm will stand the best chance of adjusting to life on the surface if he takes a brand-new hatchling and allows it to fully grow up there; the adult worms, on the other hand, would not be able to, as they're too used to the dark.

2. With some investigation, he will find that the red algae has mostly been spotted growing toward the moss in less-often-disturbed tunnels, often making lacy, fuzzy patterns on the rock walls. It doesn't seem to grow in very large clumps up until it reaches the protective moss. The velvet worms often eat the glowing algae, but they will adamantly refuse this red stuff.

As far as control methods, well... They've never had to control the glowing stuff all that much, it's very benign. A few Witches have tried to scour it off with magic, but it just keeps coming back thicker - simple physical removal just doesn't seem to work, and they're wary about trying more intensive solutions for fear of damaging the protective moss.

[turmoiling]

1a: Trader JGY's

Recalling the marketplace from that dream, Jin Guangyao packed a few small, light things; tea, medicine, dried fruits and sweets that Lan Xichen had introduced him to. So perhaps you run into him at a food or medicine stall, introducing his prospective trades to the merchants there.

Later, after a little bit of bartering, Jin Guangyao hasn't gone native yet. But he has swapped for some local currency and picked up a couple of the light and flowing silks that make up comon garb here, undyed in a soft cream color. He can't find a satisfying color of gold, and he's unsure about blue for Xichen given his unwillingness to wear his Lan robes lately. They can be dyed later, perhaps.

Small packages tucked under one arm, he slithers through the market, stopping here or there to take a look at weapons, jewels, and oddities of the underground on display.



3b: Test your might? No thanks.

Jin Guangyao attends a large number of fights through the celebration, politely declining a few challengers - the responses are not always so polite in return, but he just smiles and notes those particular faces for some other time in an undefined future.

No, he's here to watch and learn. There's the other monsters' tactics too, of course, but he pays particular attention to other naga and how they use their long bodies, how they seem to balance their human halves for lunging strikes. His own long tail, curled around underneath him, is still very new, and he hasn't done much beyond learning to move himself around without falling over.

"Are you betting or fighting? Or simply here to watch?" he asks conversationally of his nearest fellow Mirrorbound, noticing someone come up beside him. Hopefully they're not determined to get into a fight too.



1x: Why is this city full of meatheads! [Closed for Nie Mingjue]

Chatting with another naga and her friends down a side street, Jin Guanngyao can sit up on his tail to gain a few more inches of height, yes, put his hand on the hilt of his sword to try to look imposing, sure. But he's not a large man to begin with, and compared to the massive size of the naga in front of him with her thick anaconda-like tail, he looks even smaller than usual. It's not clear at a distance exactly what's going on, only that Jn Guangyao is smiling, and the others are leaning on their spears, having some kind of... intense discussion.

[petcromancer]

[Hector groans. There's no reason to hide his reaction from Alucard. Their feud is no secret.

Cezar charges at Alucard's ankles, a steady bark of 'friend, friend, pet!' as he rushes towards the towering figure.

Hector follows, because he's been warned that if you go too far down the tunnels, there are wild creatures. Cezar needs constant supervisor, or he'll make even worse of a friend than Alucard.]

Here for samples too?

[With Cezar's happy, trusting dog face, and Trevor Belmont's disappointment in mind, Hector is making one single effort to be civil.]

Goro Akechi | Persona 5

[fabrications]

( 1. city - library )
[ Ah, he already likes this much better than the dream. Akechi largely came here for information, and while the coin seems to imply he'll be able to get plenty of it later he sees plenty of merit in hitting up the library first.

The problem being, of course, that he just can't figure out how to find anything. He's beginning to assume that everything is sorted solely according to the librarians' whims. So while he's glad he thought to bring the components for more than one translation spell, it's not doing him much good. As he unravels the latest scroll and finds that it's once again not what he's after for he heaves a soft sigh.

Well, no sense in wasting his discovery. Akechi's not the only person rummaging through the shelves, and he's not embarrassed by the idea of approaching a complete stranger. ]

Excuse me. Would you happen to be looking for information about local flora?

[ He offers the scroll out. ]

It's not what I'm interested in, but it seems a shame to put it back when it was so hard to find in the first place.

( 2. city - guest villa )
[ When Akechi hears that he's going to need a roommate he strongly considers the merits of turning around and going back to Aefenglom. It's impossible, however, and the prospect of learning new things and making new connections is too tempting to give up. Thus, his only choice is to just put up with it. Wonderful.

But he seems perfectly calm as he approaches a room with a propped open door, though somewhat apologetic as he knocks on the frame. ]

Sorry to intrude - do you know of any rooms with vacancies?

[ Presumably this one, but he's going to make sure before barging in. ]

( 3. wildcard )
Write your own starter, or send me a PM if you'd like a closed starter instead!

Sora | Kingdom Hearts | Puca

[oathkeeper]

[A: the marketplace]

[The trip down to this underground city had been an adventure in on itself but being underground and actually being inside this city rather than dreaming about is something else entirely. It isn’t long before Sora wanders off to explore all of the nooks and crannies that the city has to offer. He pokes around all the different stalls and shops that the marketplace has with the intention of finding interesting little trinkets and things that he might be able to give to his bondmates later.

He’s a naturally curious explorer so he doesn’t realize that he might step on a toe here and there. Or that his overly friendly demeanour with shopkeepers and merchants might make others look at him a little suspiciously. He’s being friendly but with the residents of this city still being unsure of these newcomers it’s not long before Sora attracts some trouble.

Sora is merely picking at a few magical charms when a pair of rather shady looking arachne men walk up to Sora and grab at one of his long rabbit-ears. Sora drops his item with a clatter and growls out in pain as he tries to turn and squirm out of the man’s grasp.]

Hey-! Let go! What’s the big idea?!

"You are one of the ‘honoured guests’ from above, aren’t you? A pesky puca getting ready to steal if I ever saw one."

[Sora isn’t stealing! He might need some back up here.]

[B: the wild underground]

[Of course the young puca would find himself wandering around some of the tunnels that grow strange and interesting plants and mushrooms. Sora’s rabbit senses are naturally attracted to these things and he sniffs at and inspects each little plant with innocent curiosity.

He might have been reaching out to pluck a mushroom from the wall to give it a taste (hey, it might taste like cotton candy) but just as he disturbs the little mushroom it gives off a flash of brilliant light that blinds Sora momentarily.]

Ahhh--!

[He stumbles backwards and pulls up an arm to shield his eyes. And when the light spots start to clear from his sight Sora finds himself faced with one giant angry-looking stone-burrowing mole that seems to be really angry that his tunnel has been disturbed. Sora feels a rush of cwyld start to kick up into the air from the mushroom's spores and he quickly hops back from the creature with a frown.]

I guess this is what they meant when they said not to touch anything!

[And yet- he did?? It’s too late now! Sora is grabbing his keyblade from his back harness and he gets ready to defend himself! Maybe a partner to help him take down an angry mole would be helpful here!]

[C: litha, illusion magic practice]

[Sora is more than happy to be back in Aefenglom just in time for the festivities to kick off. This is his first Litha so there is a lot for him to see! But Sora has also developed a little trick that he’s been trying out a lot more often lately. During the festivities, he can be found using some simple puca-made illusion magic to form little red butterflies in the air.

People seem to watch the puca work, his hands opening to occasionally let out a mirage of a little red butterfly that flutters up into the tiny collection that he’s made in the air. Some of them turn blue and some of them even turn pink but it seems like they are all just tricks of the light. It doesn’t smell or feel like a witch’s magic. It’s simply a puca’s natural given gift to make tricks and illusions on the air or light.

Maybe one of the little butterflies hits you in the face before vanishing without a trace or you’re watching him try to create one that is a little bigger. Or maybe Sora screws one little butterfly up and it turns into some fake smoke on the air.]

Oh, whoops! Sorry. I’m still getting the hang of all this.

[D: litha, the harbor]

[Sora notices that there are others that are purchasing flowers, candles and lanterns from some of the colourful festival vendors. He manages to buy a few bushels of fresh flowers thinking that it might be fun to work with them to make a few crowns or use them to snack on...

If someone is nearby who doesn’t have any flowers Sora will gladly offer some of his with a smile.]

Here, want some flowers? I heard it’s good luck to give them to someone you like. Go give them to someone you like today!

[E: wildcard]

[got something else? feel free to toss it down here! or find me at michrure to plot something else out!]

[cryptsleeper]

[Cezar is a great boy with good taste in people he doesn't understand grudges!

Alucard crouches down, holding his hand out for the pug to assess and sniff. It isn't until there's approval does Alucard start scratching behind Cezar's ear, because he is the BEST BOY. Yes he is!]

I am, although if you're focused on the area, I can occupy myself with drawing the surrounding area and taking notes on it instead.

[Civil. He can manage that.]

[moustre]

We're here for it!

1. A. Red algae would not be confiscated. They have no clue what this red stuff is but they aren't sure if it's a good thing or not, so have at it, stranger. At Aefenglom's gates, they'll be just as confused about it, but will only give him a warning not to get it all over people's gardens, just in case.
B. They would still be checked, just to make sure they aren't trying to make off with something important.
C. The hanging moss strangely seems to reach out for the red stuff when it's being held by someone, as if trying to envelop it, but the algae doesn't show any signs of being infected... And when it's growing up the sides of the moss, it doesn't seem to be consumed. It has the locals pretty baffled.

2. It may be possible to snag some spores as long as he's subtle about it! They may ask him what's in the jars and telling them the truth will get them confiscated, but you know, spores are pretty tiny... Whether they'll actually manage to grow is another story, however.

A

[princessascended]

Hardly polite service.

[Both Arachne turn their heads to glare at the young woman interrupting their fun, but judging by Kairi's narrowed eyes, she's not going to be intimidated.]

I'm going to say this politely once. Kindly take your hands off my bonded. Now.

[And to put some steel in her demand, Kairi reaches down to Oathkeeper's handle. It may not be a normal-looking weapon, but it's still obvious what it is.]

Nothing unpleasant needs to happen today.

[petcromancer]

[Hector wants to agree to that. 'Yes, we can both leave each other to our work...far away from one another.' Except before he can get it out, a group of Undergrounders walk by.]

Awww, a bond-pair and their...weird pet. How cute. [A witch coos, and miraculously, they move on. No questioning what a lone monster/witch is doing wandering around, no posturing or trying to show off to an unbonded outsider.... They are just left alone.

Hector looks at Alucard, at Cezar, and at the retreating Undergrounders. For the moment, he's too excited about this development to even feel disgusted at the implications of being paired with Alucard.]

That was...substantially less hassle than I normally get. Walk in the same direction as me. It's easier.

Vanitas | Kingdom Hearts

[darkcharge]

( City: Marketplace )

[ There is someone creating quite the ruckus in the Marketplace today. What is normally filled with chatter and the sounds of people attempting to sell their wares or others desiring to buy is instead filled with some shouting. People - both Witch and Monster alike - have started to gather to see what all of the commotion is about. At the heart? It is one Vanitas, practically snarling at a rather beefy-looking Chimera. ]

I said don't touch me!

[ The Chimera looks rather put off, growling and baring fangs in return. Is this the sort of thanks that he gets for trying to assist a Mirrorbound? And a Witch at that? ]

Tch! I don't need your help. I am fine. Or do you need me to prove it?

[ To which, of course, Vanitas starts to crackle with magical lightning. He doesn't need anything from these losers and they don't have the right to put hands on him! ]


( City: Library )

[ Needless to say that Vanitas is going to be a bit on edge. So sure, why not go to the library since clearly he can't be trusted to interact with the general populace? He sneers at any passing Underground Monsters or Witches as he does so. Can't be helped now that he is in a foul mood.

At first he doesn't bother to approach any of the librarians. Vanitas doesn't trust his tongue not to be so sharp just yet. He also hadn't thought this entirely through. So after a few moments of trying to read this scroll he almost tosses it into the air.

Vanitas is looking put out at being unable to read this at all. With the way that he's glaring at the thing he looks as though he might burn it or rip it in half. ]


( City: Villa )

This one is taken. Get lost.

[ That is totally the response anyone is going to get the moment that they try to open the door. See... Vanitas isn't overly keen on sharing any sort of space with anyone. What does he care about the fact that they are supposed to have two or three people to a room?

Of course, if Vanitas knows the person at the door? He could be convinced to allow them to stay. However good luck trying to get inside otherwise! ]


( Tunnels: Botanist's Dream )

[ Plants are far more preferable than people. Not to mention there's a slight interest here for Vanitas because he knows one of his Bondmates likes to make potions and stuff. Thus his thought is that, perhaps, he can bring back some samples so that they can be used.

Here he doesn't seem to have too much of an issue getting on with the Fauns and Witches that take care of the flora in the area. If anything, Vanitas does seem to listen to them go on and on about the care that they give to the fungi and other plants.

Then they offer him some mushrooms to try. He's looking at what he had been given and is going to hand it all back. However the caretakers are moving on and he's left with an armful of mushrooms. ]

Oh come on...


( Litha: Shopping )

[ If anyone asks, Vanitas had never shown up to the festivities, all right? The truth is that he had planned on coming here later with someone else. However Vanitas is meandering the shops and looking at the various stalls to see their wares. Of course he looks awkward and out of place with all of the citizen's being so upbeat and clearly trying to pressure him into making a purchase.

A candle here? What about this rose? It would be a great gift! Here, try some of this food! Honestly this is why Vanitas can't stand to be around people. They're so annoying! ]

Augh. No... I don't want any of that.

[ Yet he keeps going back to the flowers regardless. Vanitas crosses his arms, scowling. Just what does he do. Is there even a point in coming beforehand to try to find something to buy? ]


( Wildcard )

[ If one of the above prompts doesn't suit your fancy or if you have another idea, I am game for plotting! Can contact me at either jardaan or verthunder#9612. Or throw a comment here and I will roll with it. ]