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acatalepsy_logs2018-05-11 12:00 am
acatamods) wrote in acatalepsy_logs2018-05-11 12:00 am
Entry tags:
- !npc: jalin,
- *world jump: el minha,
- baccano!: firo prochainezo,
- eos10: ryan dalias,
- final fantasy xiv: alisaie leveilleur,
- final fantasy xiv: alphinaud leveilleur,
- final fantasy xv: gladiolus amicitia,
- final fantasy xv: noctis lucis caelum,
- final fantasy xv: prompto argentum,
- fullmetal alchemist: roy mustang,
- game of thrones: tyrion lannister,
- hannibal: abigail hobbs,
- hannibal: will graham,
- homestuck: dave strider,
- hunter x hunter: kite,
- mobile suit gundam: mcgillis fareed,
- nirvana in fire: consort jing,
- odd thomas series: jolie harmony,
- original character: daylight vis lornlit,
- original character: eliza aberdeen,
- original character: geir,
- original character: valerius reveri,
- persona 5: akira kurusu,
- persona 5: ann takamaki,
- supernatural: sam winchester,
- tales of zestiria: sorey,
- the heroic legend of arslan: narsus,
- the legend of heroes: rean schwarzer,
- tokyo xanadu: rion kugayama,
- voltron: takashi "shiro" shirogane
WORLD JUMP # 1: EL MINHA.
  welcome to el minha. It will happen at random- you could be asleep, or wandering the Temple, or a variety of other options. It will feel a little strange, like a sudden warmth spreading across your skin, and then your bracelet will light up and a semi-familiar voice will be heard. I hope you are able to help the people of El Minha! And oh- in case I didn't mention it already, water is very, very valuable here. And then you will blink, and it will be bright. Bright, and warm, as you are standing just inside the grand walls that protect the impressive city before you. At your hip there will be a small bag with a few bits of coin - nothing too crazy, and definitely not enough to last you the entire stay (which...you're not exactly sure how long it will be), but enough to get started. Your presence brings a couple of glances, a stare or two, but overall the city seems to continue on with its day. Welcome to the Red Desert, the city of El Minha.  THE PALACE After a few hours of being within El Minha, the King has heard that a large amount of travelers are now wandering within the city limits. An audience is called in front of the Royal Palace, and King Kathashun steps out onto the dias. He is dressed rather plainly, for a monarch -- a purple robe, with some gold bangles and bracelets, but no ornate crown or anything like that. However, when he appears, the natives around you grow quiet, at the presence of their King.  Welcome to the heart and soul of El Minha - a massive outdoor market in the center of the city. Covered by fabric stretched between the buildings, this market feels almost like a city, or living soul, in and of itself. It is constantly moving, constantly evolving. Anything you could imagine is for sale here - spices, jewelry, weapons - whatever you’re looking for, anything at all. While you won’t necessarily find specific items from your home, you can find any matter of similarly made or crafted ones. Think cheap knock-offs, or unnecessarily well-made versions, because they can vary widely. There can also be items of some level of magic, though nothing particularly strong or overly impressive. (feel free to ask the mods on the previous ooc post about if an item is too over-powered to be found in the market - and also know that there’s always the chance you could find it in the underground. It just depends on how determined you are to track it down.) Stalls can range from cobbled together boxes and goods to grand, incredible stands - it all depends on what you’re looking for, and how long you’re willing to look. There is no map here, so tread lightly!  As the announcement from King Kathashun comes to an end, all members of the Circle will be communicated - in one way or another - the direction to the Sparkling Sapphire. Free housing, you’ve been told. All you have to do is go, give them your name, and let them know you are part of the group that King Kathashun has directed here.  THE FIGHT RING The ring itself is somewhat on the outskirts of town - a colosseum-esque collection of buildings that watch over a pit-like arena. The buildings protect the Fighting Ring from any outside eyes, or any unwanted attention, as this area is solely under the command of The Syndicate. Anyone is allowed inside, as long as you don’t cause any problems and don’t start any trouble. There are a number of what you can assume are Syndicate-employed figures that are constantly canvasing the area as well, so don’t expect to be able to sneak in unless invited or allowed.  The Golden Phoenix is the central location of the Syndicate . . . and locals will make absolutely no effort to hide that fact from the Circle members. However, people don't seem to be afraid to go, though you definitely need to have coin to get through the door. Additionally, please feel free to write up and work with your own prompts! These are presented as jumping off points for your characters, not limitations. The idea of this world- as with all the others- is to explore. There will be some NPCs interacting with characters as well, so keep an eye out for those as well! If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask them back on the mod questions thread back in the OOC post from before! From this point forward, the Circle has become involved with the political stasis and climate of El Minha. What your character finds out, decides, and does from here on out will affect the future of this city- one way or another! But what you do is completely up to you. What you discover, explore, and uncover in this city will be yours to discover, explore, and uncover. Who knows what you might find? :) |
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[You know what sucks? Wearing a hoodie over a longsleeved uniform when it's this hot. Kou's already stripped down to just his shirt, hoodie tied around his waist, but it's still long-sleeves and still way too hot. He's going to die. Cause of death: the desert.
So Kou can honestly be found slumped against random buildings, or tucked into back alleys, or trying to snatch whatever shade he can manage as he runs fingers through his messy hair and tries to cool off.
It's... uh. It's not working as well as he'd like.
(Also, that makes him a prime target for pickpocketers; he might also end up running right by you--or into you--when he ends up having to chase down some kids that took his bag.)]
b;
[There's no map for the Grand Market, and Kou is so, so lost. He wanders down one path, peers around a building, and looks utterly bemused (behind that generally flat expression), as he realizes he's somehow never been here before either.
Uh...?
And, an unimpressed mutter as he runs his sleeve over his forehead tiredly:]
How big is this place?
c;
[So. The casino. From Kou's own experiences with shady underbellies of crime (admittedly probably more genial than most), he knows that a lot of information can be found in a place like this. So he can be found casing the place out as casually as a teenager from Japan can, and he might even snag your character out front if they're looking, murmuring a quiet:]
Do you want to look inside?
[Otherwise? He's walking right on in with his hands tucked far too casually into his pockets, scoping out the place with what has to be fake confidence, because he's way out of place here.
It's probably fine.
He wants to get to the bottom of this as much as possible.]
wildcard;
[and/or just pick something and i will roll with it, or hit me up at
C
Shouldn't we get cool disguises first?
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[ daylight had actually been in the process of having meddy patch his outfit up when he and his friend find themselves dragged from the temple and a world of heat and sand, sun and tension.
despite the abrupt arrival, it's a pretty neat place so far in day's opinion. galateions don't visit a lot of desert-dominated planets for a myriad of reasons - ranging from their systems finding the heat too taxing to no real benefits for their trips be it resource seeking or off duty shifts- so this? this is exciting for him.
when the address is over and daylight hurries out of the palace to take in the sights of the city, he checks his device and is quick to start typing out a message to everyone: ]
Hey guys!!!
Don't want to sound like a nag but can I get a roll call for everyone? I thought I saw everyone when we were talking to the king but just want to be sure!!
[ while he waits for response from anyone, day fans his neck in a vain attempt to cool down. it's... kinda uncomfortable to be running around in a helmet and leather jacket but he thinks he can tough it out. ]
ii;; outside the palace; part two
[ okay. no. nope. nah.
he cannot handle the heat if he's in his disguise. it's not painful just... super uncomfortable to be running around in his getup.
the ten feet tall bot soon ditches his clothes - stripping in public isn't public indecency if you're a robot, right? - and keeps it bundled up under one of his arms until he can find a better place to store them away. he doesn't think the small bag attached to his hip will be a good place to shove his helmet in.
honestly? he seems more worried for the little drone he holds in a cupped hand of his, trying to offer some semblance of shade for his companion as meddy lets out a piteous series of beeps and whines. between the stress of the sudden trip and the heat, meddy is clearly not having a good time. ]
... I think I have to find a place for Meddy to rest. [ daylight sounds and looks genuinely distressed for meddy's sake and he looks around, hoping someone from the temple is here. maybe they can help? ]
iii;; the grand market.
[ for his part, daylight tries to not squish everyone when he enters the market. his favourite part of any off duty trips was visiting the market area, his optic always on the lookout for new reading materials or art materials or the like. combined with the king warning about this syndicate bring trouble, it wouldn't hurt to start in the bustling grand market and see where to go from there.
he occasionally hits someone when his excitement gets the better of him and he's quick to say sorry, not wanting to cause trouble. ohhh. he's pretty sure that will leave a mark. sorry passerby!
on the bright side he's kind of pretty popular? his tall form offers plenty of shade for those willing to trail after him while he swans about the stalls and tries to listen in on conversations happening around him. just be careful when touching day, okay? he's made of living metal and that does mean he will capture heat. ]
Sooo- You doing okay down there? [ he's not even bothering to hide the teasing tones in his voice when he addresses his companion, no doubt needing to crane his head down so its easier for their necks. ] If you want I can carry you around. Gotta be better than walking.
iv;; the fight ring.
[ the moment he hears about the fight ring and learns the rules, daylight knows he's going to be all over that. he may not be the best fighter of fireteam trailblazer - that's nightbreak and he's always been more comfortable with his position as scout - but there's no way he's going to miss out on this. he's been meaning to shake the dust off his struts, so to speak, and what's a better place where it's encouraged to fight? and earn money along the way??
he may not know what the provided weapons will be but that's okay! he can improvise.
daylight turns to his companion, his optics bright with excitement while he gestures wildly and poor people have to duck to avoid getting smacked by a robot's gesticulating. ]
I'm gonna fight some dudes! [ he's quick to shove his bag into meddy's flippers, entrusting his money and other so far gathered items with his little buddy. ] Make sure to bet on me, Meddy!
[ meddy's reply is a sad and worried boop... because they are clearly not feeling it like their charge. ]
v;; wildcard!!!
[ want to do something else? use this prompt or hit me up via my hmd or my plurk, prognostic, if you want to plot specifics! ]
iv; ish?
You're...part of that new group of tourists that came in, aren't you?
[ the man is smiling, but it's friendly enough. a kind of easy curiosity at seeing something new more than any outright making fun. ]
cool with me!
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She'd do what she could.]
1. Outside the Palace
[As impressive and imposing as it was - far more advanced than the Imperial Palace complex back in Jinling, though perhaps not to the same scale - Jing feels no particular affinity to the royal trappings, though she still gets caught up in the crowd for the King's speech. Almost by habit, she keeps an ear on the King's words and her eyes on the natives gathered around, silent and respectful in the presence of the royal guards (the Crown Guard, wasn't it?), trying to gauge some of the local rhythms of courteous exchange, just as she was used to assist in receiving the concubines and consorts of foreign ambassadors into the inner Palace.
So when the speech is over, she seeks out one of the guards, looking for one who seemed marginally less imposing, the border between them and the crush of commoners around them less clearly delineated than it was for the other guards.]
Greetings. [She says, stopping just within reach, dipping a polite curtsy.] Do you mind if I ask a few questions about your King? I was wondering if he has any family who live with him within the Palace?
2. The Grand Market
[It had been literal decades since she last had to negotiate for anything at a market such as this, but she'd grown up shopping for necessities in spaces so similar to this one that it is almost uncanny. The wares are different, of course, as always happened between villages and cities (and worlds, apparently) when she was traveling, but the energy of it is the same, the dance between the merchants and the customers, jostling for better space, for the attention of passersby, volume and color and scent in a gloriously chaotic cacophony for all the senses. She tucks her hands more firmly in her sleeves - she'd immediately slipped the bag of coins (a parting gift from Astoria?) in to join her other belongings - and sets out to explore, her walk just purposeful enough to avoid immediate harassment from overzealous merchants or cutpurses, but still at a pace where she can take in the various wares. She has a list of things she's looking for, but it would be better to get an overview of the offerings first, and perhaps she'd run into some familiar faces from the Temple here as well.
Maybe you'd like to join her?]
3. El Minha streets - From the Sparkling Sapphire towards Syndicate territory
[It had only taken a day or so after arriving for her to discover (from quietly listening to the discussions of the tavern's workers and the few native guests) the locations of the places she'd been most interested in finding upon hearing Astoria's stated goal. The way they spoke of those districts, decrying the degradation of order and the influence of the criminal Syndicate, was also, sadly, quite familiar.
Jing is eager to do something, but she's not quite foolhardy enough to go alone - not anymore. So if you come down to breakfast one day and don't look to be in a hurry, she might just approach you with a question:]
Do you have plans already for the day? Could I ask you for a favor?
4. Also open to anything! Let me know if you'd like me to write a different prompt/starter.
2
Rion is making do with what she can, sweater over her uniform ditched and left behind in her room and sleeves rolled up, but she's definitely going to need to find something a little more breathable while she's here. Not to mention the fact that she is a teenage girl, shopping is fundamental, and she'd like to see what's up for sale with reliable company.
... Not that she has actually met Jing, but she's a familiar enough face spotted around the Temple, so when she sees her, she's hurrying forward. ]
Um--! Excuse me!
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the grand market;
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( 3 )
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OTA!
Between the combination of her age and her six supernatural watchdogs attached to her back and wary of letting her be touched, Jolie's purse is pretty safe. It helps, too, that she tucked it up inside her shirt, and tucked that up under her denim jacket tied around her waist. Not knowing how long she's going to be stuck here, she's not going to let any of those coins go to waste.
It isn't waste, though, when she immediately purchases the biggest, widest-brimmed hat she can find, a pretty patterned scarf to tie up her hair with, and one of the light silk ponchos, in a vivid pink and white, to keep off the sun. She is a white girl, and she's lived on the California coast long enough to know that she will burn.
After that, she wanders around the market, mostly listening, buying a drink here and there to keep hydrated and keeping her tentacles as close to her back under the poncho as possible. She listens to rumors and asks occasional questions, trying to find out what the locals think of their king, and what this "syndicate" did exactly to get them in so much trouble with said king. Nobody can make a decision until that's figured out, she's sure.
II. The Sparkling Sapphire
Free housing! Nice! Jolie may have been pleasantly surprised to find herself no longer terrified of the sun-- a big thing in a desert city like this-- but she still spends the middle of the day here, sitting in the tavern with a book or two she picked up at the market, and a notebook to jot down her findings. Or up in her room with a few clothes on as possible to try and keep cool. It's only during the morning, evening, and night that she's out and about in the city proper.
<>III. Fighting Ring
Because it's popular, Jolie peeks in here once or twice as well, even though she mostly makes faces at the fight itself. She doesn't even consider getting in line to try fighting, herself-- she's fourteen, and not stupid, and knows how to throw a single punch and maybe bite if she had to, which is definitely not enough-- but she does watch for a while. Maybe trying to learn a little something, maybe not.
When spotting one of the syndicate people, she asks a likely nearby person, "So wait, do they own this place, too?"
During a particularly nasty fight, she'll comment to the nearest Circle person, "Ugh, why do people watch this? Like, I can imagine what that felt like, and I can't stop imagining it. Ow."
IV. Golden Phoenix (environs, not inside)
Jolie isn't wasting her precious money on a door fee to a place that probably won't let fourteen years olds in, anyway, but she does spend a lot of time loitering around watching the place, and wandering the streets around it, chatting up the regular, non-casino-going people who live nearby.
"What kind of stuff do they do in there?" she asks. "Do they bother you, like does it keep you up at night living next to a place like that?" Or maybe, "There's no, like, protection money scam going on or anything, is there? I don't want my kneecaps broken."
IV
Technically, he supposes he's not even officially a gangster here, but that doesn't mean he can't advise on gangster matters. Hell, he'll advise on anything he damn well feels like advising on.
He calls over:]
I don't know about the protection rackets here, but if you're worried about your kneecaps you probably shouldn't ask so many questions.
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no subject
[despite the fact that he was first given his name on an unseasonably warm April day in Texas, it is still way too hot out here to be wandering around in what's basically bright red long underwear and a cape. and Dave has quickly learned, since showing up here with a brand new power he actually likes using, that said power is something that should be rationed instead of spat around willy-nilly.]
[so, bartering for new clothes it is. something lightweight, maybe? but it probably should still be longer sleeved to block out the sun.]
[so he's standing at a random stall deep in the mess of the marketplace, a sizeable jug of water hefted on one shoulder. it's unclear at a first glance where the water came from. but the merchant seems to be buying what Dave's selling, and has, uh. well he has two different shirts on offer.]
[after a moment, Dave turns his head to look at whoever happens to be standing closest.]
Well, I can't pick. Honor's all yours.
ii. the sparkling sapphire
[whatever shirt he wound up with, he's wearing it now, and having himself a bit of a rest from the blaring heat outside. the jug of water's gone, in its place a completely random assortment of junk — if it crossed his mind that it might be useful for more than two seconds, he tried to get it — spread out on the table in front of him. there's also a still untouched cheeseburger on a plate somewhere in the pile.]
[okay, maybe his definition of useful is a bit different than most. and collecting useless crap is pretty standard for him. but there is a slushie maker. and one of those battery-powered fans that also spritzes water. and a bird skull. and also a tape recorder that seems to be recording something, for some reason? the bard is nearby, at least. maybe Dave is saving whatever story he's telling for later.]
[feel free to have a seat and dig through the pile, or offer something up to trade. he doesn't mind.]
iii. wildcard, just outside the city walls
[Dave isn't really keen on wandering too far away and getting lost in the desert like a Saturday morning cartoon, but there is something he wanted to check for himself. or rather, something he wanted to confirm, since he'd mentioned it earlier.]
[he's standing there, the only weapon from "home" in hand. it's a sword. it's sharp. it's Welsh. he's just going to go ahead and drive it right into the ground as far as it will go, like he's a reverse King Arthur returning Excalibur to its pedestal, or maybe the Hero of Time returning to his childhood.]
[and then, with the sword wedged in its new, sort of sandy prison, he just. reaches over and pushes it lightly. the sword can't handle the pressure of a polite shove and snaps in half like a twig. it basically looks like this.]
[so the thing definitely isn't enchanted like it supposedly was earlier. and maybe the rules that dictate what sort of weapons he can use don't apply here — and so maybe he smacked the sword against the city wall once or five times in an actual attempt to break it.]
[this whole thing is pretty stupid, but there's something oddly poignant about it, too. it's almost like he's saying a silent farewell to the sword and whatever history may have been attached to it. rest in pieces, Caledfwlch.]
iv. wildcard electric boogaloo
[hit up Dave with anything! he can be found wandering around anywhere, aside from the fight ring. that's not really his style anymore.]
i.
Too many words on the other one. But you could also get both. [ a shrug. ] It's up to you.
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[the pickpockets of the Grand Market have a liiiittle bit of competition today]
[Akira isn't nearly as experienced as the street kids of El Minha at this (all his pickpocketing experience comes from Palace infiltrations, not real world situations), but he knows enough to realize that the merchants are tooootally off limits. but that doesn't mean he can't try to target a non-merchant native, right?]
Ah-- excuse me.
[if you happen to be in the Grand Market today, you might catch Akira just as he bumps shoulders with a wandering buyer. he spins around quickly to face them when he does so, a swift and sincere-sounding apology tumbling from his lips. but if you watch him closely, when he turns away again, something shiny palmed in the center of his hand definitely catches the light before he slips it into his pocket]
[hm]
[. . . he may not necessarily be doing this just for profit, if the way he's carefully watching the scruffy kids as they scamper about the Grand Market underfoot is any indication]
B. The Golden Phoenix
[anyway, when Akira isn't being super sketch in the Grand Market, he can totally be found hanging around the casino. specifically, the tiny lizard races ring table. he's actually leaning his hip against the corner of said table, watching the competing lizards flick their tails and stare at their audience with beady, black eyes]
[he lets out a thoughtful hum]
[whether your'e here to bet on lizards or not, Akira is going to elbow you lightly in the arm, before he points to the tiniest, scrawniest looking lizard on the table. one with bright green scales and itty bitty claws that could probably do nothing worse than give you a paper cut]
I'm betting on that one.
[okay, Akira]
What about you?
C. Wildcard
[feel free to make a custom starter! Akira can be found pretty much anywhere, except the vicinity of the royal palace, for some strange reason]
A
... hmm. ]
What happened?
[ are you really doing this akira. are you. ]
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B
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B
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B c:
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[ The Sapphire is a lot nicer, and definitely more homey, than many bars and roadhouses that Sam's ended up in over the past several years. The atmosphere here is relaxed, welcoming, and there's no crowd of sketchy types in the corner playing pool to be wary of. The food here, too, is a step above the greasy bar food that he usually has to manage with, and that's a welcome change.
He wasn't intending to get drunk this evening, but he does have a taste of the liquor that's been offered. He thinks it's strong, but it's hard to tell when it makes his whole mouth numb and slightly tingly.
By the time someone slides onto the seat next to him he's a little drunk, and likely to have a more starkly honest conversation than he would if he were entirely sober. ]
[2] The Golden Phoenix
[ It doesn't take Sam long to get to the casino. He's not above taking on honest jobs for money, he used to insist on it, but when he's not sure how much time they have here and he wants to hit the ground running, it seems logical to take the faster route. Hustling pool has been the Winchester gambling of choice, but he hasn't seen any such tables here. What he does see is cards, and with cards is a game that's close enough to poker. Bingo.
Sam has a deceptively good poker face. His expression reads like an innocent kid, exactly the type that seasoned players would try to take advantage of, but he makes it a point to figure out how to play the people at the table as much as the game, and he's damn good at it. It's not a talent he's necessarily proud of, but it's practical in this case. He's not looking to win big and garner too much attention, not yet at least. Instead he's pacing himself out for modest gains, and using the time to scope out the crowd and the general feel of the place.
He can be found drifting between card tables, usually with a drink in hand that he's occasionally sipping from, or even drifting over to have a look at the lizard races, both the small scale ones and the larger ones. That's nothing he's done before, but he might give it a whirl, if just for the benefit of anyone who might be keeping tabs on him. ]
[3] The Streets/Market
[ After putting in some time at the casino, Sam has a little more coin to spend. Subsequently his first priority is to seek out some clothes that don't make him plainly stand out as an outsider at even the most casual glance. Also the clothes he's wearing aren't exactly designed for the heat, and he's looking to pick up some gear that would help keep him alive if he has to venture outside of the city itself for one reason or another.
If any fellow Circle members need help carrying purchases back to the tavern, or would like an extra pair of eyes to keep an eye out for pickpockets, or just wants some company while shopping Sam would be easy to approach. ]
[4] The Library
[ Another priority is to find information. He's sure that the Palace likely has a library of some kind that he could get lost in, but he's gotten the impression from the guards that that's a no go at the moment. Security is too tight. That doesn't mean that he's completely out of luck of course, just that tracking down the kind of place he's looking for.
What he eventually does find is a place called the House of Wisdom, which seems to be a hub for the local scholars. Sam obviously isn't the first tourist to show curiosity in the local culture, and he doesn't find himself unwelcome, but he's never alone with shelves of books and scrolls. It does seem to help when he volunteers to help with some of the menial tasks around the grounds though, and while much of this is unfamiliar he's a quick learner and reasonably adept at fixing things. He figures that making himself helpful is the key to being allowed to stay longer, and it might make him a few locally knowledgeable friends.
The magic is especially interesting. If anyone's either looking for him, or likewise looking for information, they might find him here among the shelves, carefully flipping through one dusty tome or another. ]
((I'll be adding a couple more things later on. hmu here or over on
[4]
"Cool stuff in here, right?" she says, by way of greeting, trying to be casual. Nobody has really given her a hard time about her tentacles, coiled currently on her back but for one that trails along the spines of the books like a child's finger. But there's always a first time. "Found anything useful yet?"
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3!
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2 [plus first meeting]
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[1]/[4] - [[OOC: We mentioned this in passing on plurk, but feel free to tweak as needed!]]
[[ Yess, this works for me! ]]
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Tyrion Lannister ✧ ASOIAF
Tyrion strolled over the market place, not knowing where he should look first. Here the exotic smells of spices was in the air, there was the finest jewelry he had seen in a while. A few steps further beautiful clothes got sold. It was tempting to buy something, especially something that wasn't of much use.
Then he discovered a stand that was selling bronze figures. They were shining in the daylight and caught his attention. One was close to represent a dragon and he immediately thought of Dany. Should he buy this figure for her? Would it be even possible to bring something from his adventures into his world?
"May I take a closer look at this one?" he asked, pointing at the figure.
"I guess she would like it" he murmured nearly inaudible. But someone next to him had heard his remark, someone Tyrion hadn't noticed.
[The Sparking Sapphier]
After he had spent a good part of the day, walking over market place, he entered the Sparkling Sapphire. He searches for a free table. The fresh air had made him hungry and it has been a long time since he could sit down in a public room and enjoy a meal together with a good wine.
While he waits for food and drink he looks around to see if there might be a familiar face around. It was not impossible and he wouldn't say no to someone to keep him company.
[In Front Of The Golden Phoenix]
There had been no place that was at least a bit like that in Westeros. From what he had found out from observing here it was possible to make some money.
Should he challenge his luck? It was a tempting idea but what if they would have games here, he had never heard of?
He decided that he should ask the next member of the Circle that would come out of the building.
[Wildcard]
Whatever idea you come up with. Feel free to add me for plotting on plurk preciousbrat
Golden Phoenix!
Recognizing the other man, Firo stopped and jerked his head back towards the building. "Are you going in or what?
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the market place;
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[A few days into their stay, dawn glazes the desert sand a rich burnished copper and the pale stone of the city walls are glow ochre and gold. As hot as the desert is in the day, the lack of moisture in the air means the lingering night still carries with it a hint of chill on the desert breeze. It's a good time for a stroll.
Kite's path leads her near enough to the Sparkling Sapphire that running into a more familiar face is only expected. She hasn't been staying there herself, but with everyone's scattered agendas, who would notice? She squints for a moment, looking you over, then waves when she catches your eye and jogs over.]
Have you had breakfast?
[She would look more unremarkable in her locally sourced clothing if they weren't lightly coated in dust from head to toe. Nothing to dramatic, but isn't it a little early for that? Maybe she found a sand dune to roll down, and then... rolled down it. Who knows? Astoria chose a lot of strange people.]
2. The Market
[There's a huddle of five or six kids having what seems like a ferocious debate, or maybe an argument, over the head of a fat, furry cylinder. Energy is high and voices are raised, so it takes the wheezy barking of cylinder for the group to notice your approach. There's a sudden scatter of young conspiracists until only the dog and Kite are left, both squatting over a dirt diagram with matching expressions of amusement.
"Who cares? It's just another tourist!" opines a high-pitched voice from around a makeshift alley corner, but it is quickly, loudly, shushed.]
3. Golden Phoenix
[I don't know what you want me to say here. Kite is very bad at slot machines, but if her expression is anything to go by, she's determined to prove it, through science and repeatable results. Someone please stop her.]
4. Misc~
[You might also run into her poking around the market, observing at the fight ring, or even beyond the wall. What a coincidence! Although there's every chance she just wanted to check up on you.]
sapphire;
Uh.
[ He blinks, adjusts his glasses, looking somewhere off to her right. ]
No, not yet. I was thinking of going and picking something up from the markets.
[ For his part, he's still in jeans and a button down like he's stepped straight out of West Virginia and not this strange city's tavern. They're rumpled clothes, like he left them on the floor while he slept, and he definitely hasn't brushed his hair. ]
ha i'm a little surprised
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1.
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market
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[ Most people were lucky enough to appear just inside the city, and that's great! Very swell! Rion is so very happy for them!!!
Rion, however, was not that fortunate, and pre-meeting the King (because there was no way she'd show up in a disheveled state), you can find her...
... Completely coated in sand, trying to knock it loose from her hair and off her clothes, and looking delightfully miserable as she simultaneously shuffles about and tries to locate any familiar faces. ]
Who delivers people right into a sand dune...
[ Hi, guys. ]
b;
[ She's been finding small, quiet places to practice-- sure, she's had some time in the temple to work on using her power properly, but that was there and this is here and Rion isn't about to waste any opportunity to get these wings tamed. If that means diligently practicing short flights, so be it.
Except.
One short flight has resulted in her perched on the edge of a rooftop of some random building, peering down at you and-- wincing. Okay, so the back pain side effect hasn't improved any. ]
Heeey. Heeeeeey!
I maybe kinda need a favor.
c;
[ No matter where you are, no matter what position you end up in-- Rion firmly believes in using who she is and what she does to her advantage. So you'll find her in a variety of places over the next few days! One is hanging with the bard over in The Sparkling Sapphire, learning what songs she can and even singing along on some occasions. Another is in the Grand Market, flat-out performing on a small square of carpet-- one of her songs as an idol from back home, or one of the songs she's picked up from the bard. It's all acapella, unless someone wants to conveniently drop in with instrumental back-up, or join her in dancing.
She'll even show up in Syndicate Territory to sing there, though it's only to perform, because creeping around to gather information on her own sounds like a terrible idea and Kou would Not Be Happy.
... Alternatively, you can probably catch her trying to chase after a pickpocket because they are definitely better at it than she is at protecting her money. ]
d;
[ Wildcard!!! Feel free to hit me up for anything, or you can reach me at
Some tourists are actually passing her the occasional coin or three, so she seems to be doing fairly well for herself.
c
But as he was looking, he could faintly hear the sound of...singing. While the song wasn't anything he's heard of before, the voice sounded familiar. In fact, it was so familiar that it gave Rean the excuse to try out his power bestowed by Astoria: his Sense Focusing. He raised his fist and clenched, closing his eyes before singling out one sense to center on, hearing.
He could laugh to himself. It was then that, in a spark of genius, he bought a guitar from the store display, played with the strings for a minute, and decidedly strolled along the marketplace until he happened upon her stage, entering from behind.
It was sudden, but he tried to match the beat of her vocals with what string to pluck, and before long, he had invited himself to play backup.
He'd tell her not to mind him if his smile wasn't already doing it for him. ]
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b;
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Waver Velvet .. ota
[Another world, and now, new magic to get used to. In a way, this place feels right for Waver's new ability, which involves no small amount of preparation work in order to ensure the magic will have the desired effect. It's all about calligraphy, writing words down on paper and then using fire to bring them to life. The air here, the feel of the city, it feels like a good match.
But it also means that Waver ends up sitting in the tavern area, hunched over and scrawling on pages of parchment (bartered for with Waver's ability to argue coming in handy for once). And then suddenly, there's a careless hand and then a single, precise:]
Damnit!
[There's also ink all over where Waver's camped out.]
II. The Vicinity of the Golden Phoenix
Right. According to all the mission information, this place was a huge hub for well, Waver was just going to call them opposing forces for the time being. The political situation here was complicated, and honestly, Waver wasn't opposed to taking a stand against nobles who were complete jerks to people lower than themselves.
He also wasn't an idiot. Waltzing into areas of operation like this without a better idea of what to do was how you got killed. And so a few blocks away, Waver paced, uncertain and unsure of the best course of action.
"Geez, probably getting disguises would work but it's getting late and the market's probably closing..."
III. Street Smarts!!
[No one had given them a map to the city, in the end. That meant wayfinding, and getting to know the streets on a personal level. Waver didn't like it, and he sure as hell isn't a fan of walking around in the heat, but he's trying his best to be practical right now.
In walking around, his eyes and ears are keen, just in case someone's trying to be clever and cute. Upon hearing movement, Waver jumps around, holding a scroll up in his hand.]
Who's there?!
!!! stranger danger~
Just me. [She leans in, holding up both hands in a show of harmlessness, but hey, speaking of holding things,] Is that...? What were you even going to do with that?
slowly takes moneyclip out of back pocket
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iii but it's prose
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III
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sapphire
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sparkling sapphire.
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[ After the King's speech, he would immediately find himself walking away from the palace, jacket wrapped around his waist as the heat was teetering the edge of being too hot to live. He would take the cold any day of the week, he would feel as sweat would form on his brow--furrowed as it might have been, as he was in thought about the King's words. He wanted some clarification on what the Syndicate has done, and one way he was going to get that is through where the people bustle. He had his concerns about whether or not the King was hiding anything, but he already said his piece: he wasn't going to get involved in their political climate.
...Too much, anyway.
As a neutral party, and as a guest, he explored the market and took it all in. He would note the young children who had a means for trouble, but he wouldn't look at them with disdain, but rather, a hint of sadness. He wished he could help them somehow, so that they wouldn't have to feel obligated to do something so wrong as steal from others. There had to be something he could do while he was here, after all...
Of course, this lead Rean to look at the pouch that was given to him, coin still withstanding in few. ]
...Well, I'm sure Elise would understand that a souvenir is out of the question.
[ On the bright side, getting robbed wouldn't be too much of a loss so long as they didn't take the tachi he carried, slung over his shoulder wrapped in a purple bag. While he eyeballed some of the product the market carried--there's some stuff he'd honestly just would have liked to have--one could probably find him looking crestfallen at the lack of funds. He really needed to find a way to earn some cash if he's going to be sunk into the heats of Hell like this... ]
The Golden Phoenix
[ Afterwards, he would gather info from the townsfolk fairly easily that the Syndicate's home location would be, almost naturally, the casino. Upon entering, he could hear die being cast on tables, cards being dealt, and coins being entered into their machinery. Not the most ideal place for Rean Schwarzer, law-abiding student to be around. But, one wouldn't be able to tell from the look on his face--he tried to keep his composure. This whole area and environment just reminded him of an old friend of his. He knew he couldn't, and didn't, have time to just stand around in thought about that, so he tried to focus on what he came here for.
"Tried" is the core word here, as when he caught sight of the lizard betting, he couldn't bear to take his eyes off of it. Not because he was interested, but he knew someone that would've been. Rean clearly thought that it wouldn't have hurt to spare a thought for him for a second, even if it were slightly intrusive, but as it turned out, he might've been staring for a bit longer, as he would be confronted by others who would ask him simple, but heart-pounding questions. ]
I just don't really know how this works. I've never really bet on anything before.
[ He responded when asked what he was doing standing around. It was a half-lie; he hasn't gambled before, but he knew about the size of it. He kept his cool, but it'd be convenient if he had some help. Or, he could end up getting roped into lizard betting... ]
Streets of El Minha, locked
[ Whether or not he gets information about the Syndicate at the casino, Rean still needed a way to earn money that wasn't teetering towards immoral. He had been a professional at moving all over the place and assisting people with their needs back home at Trista, so why not listen to the people and check if there were any tasks he could do to give them a load off. He never would ask for compensation though, so most of his odd jobs were taken out of kindness than paycheck. However, perhaps sometimes citizens would reward him with something for his hard work.
Let's begin the sidequesting. After speaking to others who were around, he found himself with the job of escorting cargo via wagon. It hadn't been overly large, it was a single crate, but the wagon would make it easier for those who aren't used to the heat. The person he spoke to was unable to do it themselves due to the rampant pickpocketing the area was known for, and luckily Rean was there to offer his soul. Who he was to deliver this to, though, he'd only gotten a vague answer from his client, saying to speak with his friend at the Fight Ring and drop it off there.
That being said and done, Rean holsters up the wagon and begins to pull. It wasn't difficult to drag along, but as one would guess, it had its cons. As he pulled, he would wipe the sweat away from his eyes, taking a few sips of water he had bought from the Sparkling Sapphire within a couple of steps. Every step taken was a step towards finishing the job, after all.
--Being in the heat is miserable. Help him. ]
Wildcard
[ Adding this option for those who wanna hit me up and plot out anything sweet. Feel free to add me on Discord or PM me! ]
grand market
[he stops next to Rean, a jug of water hefted over one shoulder, and a bag in his other hand. he glances over at him, eyes hidden behind his shades.]
You kinda look like a kid in front of a bicycle shop. [what's caught Rean's interest? Dave might be able to help.]
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wildcard; voice
voice
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streets
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Firo Prochainezo | ota
[Sparkling Sapphire Main Room]
[For someone who’s just been given free room and board in a place that’s nicer than he’d ever expect, Firo looks decidedly unhappy. He stands before the fire, arms crossed, staring at it like he thinks it’s going to jump out and try to pick a fight.
Frowning, he turns to the nearest person and, not even bothering to lower his voice, asks:]
Don’t you think this is all too good to be true?
[The Golden Phoenix]
[It’s not home, but Firo figures it’s as close as he’s going to get. As he slips into the throngs of gamblers, he even finds himself smiling with nostalgia. Despite the surface differences, the feeling is still almost like that of his place back home, a place he hadn’t been for weeks even before being yanked to this new world.
Reminiscing aside, he has work to do. He doesn’t trust for a moment that their hosts will soon tire of the Circle members and toss them out—either that, or there’s some sort of hidden motive. Neither makes him too comfortable, so he figures he’d better start changing the little bit of money Astoria gave them into an actual nest egg.
You can run into him while he’s hanging back and surveying the games early on or catch up with him once he starts actually playing. He sticks to the card games mostly; a keen observer might notice that he wins some, loses some, never enough to make himself anything but perfectly inconspicuous. Even so, he’s still coming out ahead—he hasn’t spent almost a decade of his life working in a casino for nothing.
While he’s up and walking around, he might approach someone who looks out of place enough that they have to be a Circle member.] Which ones’ve you tried?
[Marketplace, closed to Rion]
[Firo’s not given to moral conundrums, but he finds himself tangled in the midst of one nonetheless.
On the one hand is someone he doesn’t really know but who has to be another Circle member (whatever the hell that actually means). On the other hand is some street punk with their eyes clearly trained on her pockets. Having been a similarly grabby street punk for a good chunk of his life, Firo doesn’t have anything against pickpocketing, but he doesn’t feel too good about standing back and doing nothing, given that it’s someone who’s in the same boat as him.
And, hey, if the kid’s technique is lousy enough to be spotted, Firo supposes that helping the girl out could be a helpful lesson to the would-be-pickpocket. In a way. He never claimed to be the most charitable person out there.
So, sighing at his own indecision, Firo finally moves to catch up with the two, neatly slipping in between the thief and his mark once he’s gotten up to speed.
He clears his throat at Rion.] Hey, miss. You need to watch your back.
[Wildcard]
[I’m up for anything! If you want to plot something out, please feel free to pm me on this journal or on plurk at
no subject
[ Rion turns, surprised-- at a great many things, beginning with the person addressing her and ending with the warning he'd just given. Uncertainly, she glances past him, spotting what looks to be someone quickly slipping into another alleyway. ]
... Wait, was I being tailed?
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sparking sapphire
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sapphire;
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sapphire
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BIGGER & BETTER (MARKETPLACE.)
I WANT TO RIDE MY GROTESQUE GIANT LIZARD ALL DAY (THE GOLDEN PHOENIX.)
WILDCARD.
sparkling sapphire;
Curious. ]
If you don't want people to start thinking you're crazy, you might want to mumble like two octaves lower.
[ Here she stands, hands clasped behind her back. Hi, Prompto. ]
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marketplace;
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Marketplace
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LIZARDS
1/2
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Lizards
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LIZARDS LIZARDS LIZARDS
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( marketplace )
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lizards!!
sup voicetwin
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marketplace
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[It’s not home, of course, not really, but close enough that Narsus finds himself strangely at ease wandering the marketplace, enjoying the experience of it all, just for now...and after all, he could use some supplies. A few careful questions have him pointed in the right direction to find some paints and brushes, and he’s clearly impressed by the quality available.]
Oh yes, these are quite fine… Might I test the texture of the blue, there?
[The merchant, for her part, seems quite pleased to have a customer of taste, and the discussion continues in this vein for some time. Until the time comes to name a price, and Narsus has to remember the size of his budget…]
...Ah, well… No, of course, they’re certainly worth that much. It’s only that I’ve found myself traveling rather abruptly, and without all the resources I’m accustomed to… [He stares at the collection of items he’s gathered up rather glumly, diffidently setting aside a few of the pricier ones.] Perhaps I’ll return for these if I can find a way to make up the difference...
[The Sparkling Sapphire]
[Here, Narsus is sitting at a table near the entertainment, and has actually struck up a conversation with the bard. There’s a glass of something in front of him, but he seems to be paying more attention to the story he’s telling, about an intrigue between noble lords that’s since been passed down into legend. There’s space at the table for anyone else who might want to compare notes, too.]
[The Fight Ring]
[His sword is at his belt as always, but Narsus isn’t here to use it: instead, he’s sitting off to the side with the parchment he acquired earlier and some charcoal, glancing between it and the crowd and the fighters, apparently sketching the scene.]
[Wild Card]
[He’ll be at least poking around just about everywhere, so feel free to trip into him or try to get him to carry your stuff if you’d rather.]
Market
It's only a few feet down from Narsus that Waver's temper finally flares up, and he snaps rather hastily:]
Goddamnit, just let me look for a few minutes and then I'll know what I want!
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sparkling sapphire!
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Fight Ring
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[The heat barely bothered Valerius; he’d been in deserts before, and this one brought with it a strange, nostalgic feeling. This new world reminded him vaguely of the lands of the fire goddess Hestis back on his own world…
He hums a little nameless tune as he makes his way through the stalls, not looking for anything particular at first. A pale, long-nailed hand makes to unbutton his waistcoat and shirt a little. Briefly, he commends himself for preferring lightweight, billowing shirts. Ridiculous as they were, they kept him cool.
One stall in particular fascinates him. A jewelry stall is lined with a rainbow of different gems, all hitting the disguised fiend with a barrage of memories. He smiles fondly as he lets a hand hover over a familiar milky-colored stone, streaked with brilliant aqua. A moonstone, how lovely. And it seems there are little jeweled charms about too….Perhaps he could acquire a couple to hang off of his sword…
He’s soon jolted out of this train of thought by a hard bump at his left shoulder and looks up immediately. Someone looked to be in a hurry, or perhaps pushed into him? Ah, that gave him an idea!
He takes one of the display pieces of jewelry and tugs the one who bumped into him close. Holding it up to their neck, he grins widely, teeth gleaming]
I do hate to trouble you, but would you try this on for me? I think it would complement your eyes beautifully...
[B]The Sparkling Sapphire
[The tavern’s little tables are a welcome sight after he’s spent hours of wandering aimlessly through the city. The market in particular was endlessly distracting with all the sparkling wares for sale. He only bought a couple of jeweled charms that seemed faintly magical, but he didn’t care regardless. They were beautiful, and they reminded him of home. That’s all that mattered.
His room key lay nestled in the palm of one hand, his glittering prizes in the other, held close to his chest. Sitting in a middle table, he briefly asks for a drink, offering the amount needed in return. With his drink in front of him, Valerius slips his room key into his satchel and removes a pair of reading glasses, looking to a menu placed on the table. For
For a few moments, he closes his eyes and listens to the noise, bustle and chatter. He focuses briefly on the minstrel, then opens one eye to begin watching people. Valerius wears a serene smile on his face as he eyes one of his charms--set with moonstones. A chair across from him shifts, and he focuses on the source instead]
Yes, by all means take a seat. I’ll be here awhile…
[C]The Fighting Ring
[As refined as Valerius likes to make himself out to be, he is a beast at heart. In his purest form, he exists to devour and destroy, and enjoying the sight of violence was certainly part of that. While these talents aren’t his reason for being pulled into the circle, he refuses to forget that he has them. It was all part of his pride.
And so he finds himself shifting past a crowd into a front row seat. How fortunate it is to find one, right where he can practically smell the bloodshed. It gave him a sadistic sort of glee to be so close to what he’d assume is the flames of wrath and pride...perhaps greed as well? Ah, if only he could see them. His imagination would do at least.
Valerius leans forward as one fighter falls to the ground, swearing that he felt blood spatter on his face. Or perhaps, that’s just his bestial nature slipping out in the form of macabre hopes. That sigh of his, dreamy and wistful, is also quite strange. But he’s most certainly not the only one to enjoy the sight of people kicking the crap out of each other, right?]
[D] [Wildcard! Hit me up on Discord at Sineral#7421 or Corronum on plurk if you wanna plot something in particular :D]
B
I do apologize if it's an intrusion, but- [He looks out over the busy room, in which every table has at least one person already seated] as you can see, there simply isn't much choice.
[He could have sat with someone else, of course, but Val looked like he might be interesting conversation.]
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a!
Re: a!
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no subject
But right now, he's at a place where he looks like he belongs, but he really doesn't. Thankfully, nobody should know already that he's not the type of person who would loiter here, and he's blending in well enough.
So, you can either—
( A ) be across the card table from him, watching as he shuffles neatly. ]
Are you looking to play?
[ Sounds innocuous enough.
Or ( B ) be the new recipient of a little lizard he's just won, because he sure doesn't want it. At least he's politely asking, with a tilt of his head and said lizard sleeping in a white gloved hand. There's a tiny dent in the cloth where it tried to bite him. ]
Is this what you were here for?
[ Or something else like that, it sure wasn't why he was here. Surprise, it also lets him gather information, as... strange as it is. ]
wildcard.
b
[Yes, yes lizards are in fact 100% all of why she's here. After that first yelp her tone drops, shushing herself so she doesn't wake up the little lizard with her chatter.]
I've been watching the games all day, but I haven't bet on any yet... Look how cute it is!
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𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙵𝙸𝙶𝙷𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙶
𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙶𝙾𝙻𝙳𝙴𝙽 𝙿𝙷𝙾𝙴𝙽𝙸𝚇
fighting ring!
he sighs, fully ready to give up before he started when a boof gets his attention. winston comes dashing over
amber gave me permission for this! if it's cool!and his look of irritation eases somewhat as he kneels slightly to pat the dog.] Hello Winston, causing trouble no doubt? How do you have any energy in this heat, I swear- no, please, no licking. I told you, I'm a cat person.[still, he pets the dog, glancing around.] I don't see Will, you really shouldn't run away from him like this. [not expecting the doggo to be dragging around a poor teenager.]
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grand market
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fighting ring.
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no subject
ii; new digs
iii; fight club
iv; wildcard!
i
Not bad. It suits you.
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iii
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iii;
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( i )
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i.
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ii
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[fortunately for ryan, standard issue alliance uniforms are made to be responsive to a variety of temperature conditions, so all he's had to scrounge for is a scarf to cover his face and head, because the pale skin of a ginger doesn't mix well with the blazing sun. he's carrying a simple messenger-style bag, over his shoulder and across his front, looking around for something, it seems, and if he passes a beggar on the street, he squats down to ask them a question. some nod, and ryan inspects some body part or another, or lays his hands on the person and closes his eyes. others shake their heads, and he moves on.]
[the fighting ring]
[second verse, same as the first, although he's managed to work his way down into the area where fighters return from their battles, and is offering medical care as they limp out of the ring.]
[the grand market]
[still offering medical services, but this time he's bargaining with the shopkeepers, goods for care or medicine. annoyingly for pickpockets, his clothes don't seem to have pockets, and he's holding his bag protectively in front of him. doesn't mean they can't try, though!]
[somewhere, anywhere!]
[none of these appeal but you still want to meet the good doctor? go for it, he's around pretty much everywhere but the casino, although he's content enough to wander syndicate territory.]
no subject
after ryan has helped a few fighters once they've walked out, and there has been a considerable better to their whole beings once he's done, the figure will finally push up and walk closer. ]
So you have magic?
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market;
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outside the palace
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market
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[To say Elizabeth is a touch overwhelmed at first is an understatement. Muslin is at least nice in warm weather, which she is more than thankful for, but she didn't arrive for a bonnet and quickly finds the sun a little overbearing.
In the market she seems to be searching diligently for some sort of headgear. She finds more than a few very nice shawls and briefly considers fashioning them into some sort of headcover. Of course, this consideration of hers leaves her briefly vulnerable to the pick-pocketing sort.]
[B] ;; The Sparkling Sapphire
[Finally, a meal! After a day of surprise, searching through the market and listening to a king, Elizabeth is absolutely famished. She's almost ready to simply flop in a chair much in the fashion Lydia does during a long ball.
Instead she restrains herself to taking a seat with as much civil and polite gratitude as she can.]
Who knew exploration could be so tiring?
[She says as much with enough joviality to show she's clearly joking, tired as she really is.]
[C] ;; Wildcard
[Feel free to throw any other prompts here. PMs are open for any questions. c:]
no subject
but...they do have to watch out for each other some, and he knows not everyone is used to this environ, and as a group they need to conserve resources. so he does step up, glaring sidewise at whoever was sneaking a hand towards Elizabeth's pocket until they decide to move on.]
You should be more careful here.
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A!
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b!
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[There's someting terribly familiar about the full sun and dry heat, and Keith finds himself almost nostalgic for the Garrison and his tiny desert shack. Except, really, there are a lot of painful memories associated with both -- even if the reason for some of the worst turned out to be a goddamned dirty lie
pilot error his ass. But still. It's been a while since he's been anywhere this warm, and he certainly doesn't mind it.And he thinks he ought to get the lay of the land, right? Figure out the general
The fact that he's walking around in a skin-tight suit in shades of black and gray with small stripes of vivid actually glowing purple though, he thinks he definitely stands out as someone from out of town. Which means he's getting the full tourist treatment as he makes his way through the market.]
No I... no thanks. Those look... great. But no... I... I'm just looking.
[And then eventually one might encounter him being escorted out of the market.] HEY! I'm not loitering. I'm browsing! There's a difference! [It might be a good time for someone to intervene, because Keith is jerking his arm out of the fairly large gentleman's grasp and turning on him like he might not be done proving his point yet.]
[ Option 2 - The Sparkling Sapphire ]
[After planting himself on a seat near the bar and just watching, some tavern veteran apparently has decided that buying the
moodystoic young man a drink or two would be hilarious. Keith tries to decline, at first, but it's really not that hard to goad him into things.There is a flush on his face and he's feeling a great deal more social than he normally does. He's eighteen; he's snuck a beer or two before, but this is different. At least he's sort of holding it together. Only a little less croodination than usual, and his speech isn't so much slurred as his words are flowing more than they really ever do, which may explain why he's coming up with a friendly,]
It's... really pretty here, isn't it? Like... all of this is weird. But pretty. And warm. I really like being warm. Space isn't warm. [Profound, isn't it?]
[ Option 3 - The Fight Ring ]
[This place and all the talk about a champion reminds him way too much of what he's heard about the Galra arenas from Shiro, and it sets a bad taste in his mouth,
and has him worrying about Shiro, because honestly that's one of the things he does best anyway, even if at least all of this seems voluntary. So while he'd normally be interested in crossing swords with someone, he's going to pass on that and instead skulk around trying to figure it out.]They take this pretty seriously...
[He mutters, loud enough for anyone nearby to hear.]
[ Wildcard ]
[Keith will literally find his way to every corner of the city at some point so feel free to catch him anywhere and everywhere.]
3
It's fine. Mart will win. He wants it more. [After brushing it off and the question in reply he focuses entirely on his friend.]
You haven't been scouted for a bout have you?
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the fight ring.
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( 1 )
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no subject
[ the desert is, oddly, not that much of an adjustment to roy. he spent a lot of time in ishval, and knows how to survive in the arid heat. he's long since ditched the heavy coat and clothes he's come with, and instead can be found wearing linen. also, where did he get those sunglasses? he probably talked his way into a free pair, but the children don't need to know that.
since he's here, roy can be found perusing the multiple stalls out of curiosity. he's mostly interested in components. he has an eye for bizarre metals, weird pottery, odd herbs and spices, and pretty pieces of cloth. you can find him looking through shiny things, and looking puzzled at any piece of weird tech he found that doesn't make much sense to him, or interested in jewelry that might be valuable later.
but as he also has black hayate with him on some days (probably an assigned babysitter by riza, let's be totally honest), he can also be found negotiating for some water with some well-meaning restauranteurs in the area, using black hayate as a prime example of: ]
You wouldn't let a dog suffer this heat, would you?
[ black hayate has rolled over onto his back and looks extraordinarily long-suffering, tongue lolling out, whining pitifully.
roy taught him a new trick when riza wasn't looking. ]
(B) THE GOLDEN PHOENIX
[ roy can be found mostly at the card tables, because those are the ones where lying comes into play. he's very good at the el minhan version of poker, it seems, and there's an increasing amount of natives who see fit to accuse the newcomer of cheating -- but, weirdly enough, don't seem to actually call him out on it, or threaten to kick him out once roy spends a few minutes talking them off the ledge.
but if you don't want to play him in cards, roy can also be found curiously examining the lizard races (both large and small), and asking the person next to him: ]
Do you think you can train them?
[ he might want a small lizard. ]
(C) WILDCARD-ISH
[ roy can also be found exploring the fight ring, though likely not taking part in the sparring unless asked. he's also going to be pursuing syndicate territory over anything else -- he knows royalty, and their goal is to stay in power. but what about the underbelly? feel free to hit me up @
A
There is still some water in my bag, if your dog needs it. It's especially warm today. [She's going to bend just a little, glancing up for permission.] May I?
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b
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C
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B - poker
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golden phoenix;
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no subject
[After talking to the King he volunteers to fight. The only way to get to the Champion is through other fighters. He pauses at the edge of the ring long enough to soak up how different this feels than the last time he'd entered a ring. Then the moment is over and he walks inside without looking back.]
[A. He takes part in sparring first. He hasn't used a sword in a long time and shaking that rust off his skills is important. Or he'll never climb the ladder to the top. Shiro always tests his opponents first to gauge their skill level and speed. He's not the fastest but he isn't slow. A man his size usually moves slower than he does and he has endurance to burn. His strength isn't what it should be but he can work with what he has.]
Alright, let's see what you can do. [He nods to any sparring partner and when the spar begins he unleashes smooth, precise strikes that test speed and reflexes as the opening move. How quick is one to defend or attack? Where are the gaps in that defense?]
[B. The moment they're allowed to start he moves in, ready to meet his opponent. Every second stretches as if he's under water. The ground feels almost the same as then but his life isn't on the line. Novice fighters stand no chance, he puts them down quickly. It isn't hard to win. He wants to win. The only way to get the information he wants is through carving a path.
Shiro exits the ring after a bout and cleans the sword they gave him. He breathes in even and deep. Every breath brings him a little closer to center. While he rests he watches other bouts. He doesn't seem all that bothered as he leans against the wall with his arms crossed. When anyone approaches he turns his head towards them with a neutral expression on his face.] I'm going to assume you want to talk if you're coming up to me right now. Ask quick, there's two bouts then I'm back in there.
Option 2: The Grand Market
[He stands out too much when he ventures out. With money won from fighting he aims to change that. But he's easy to approach to help keep an eye out for pickpockets or to carry things. On his own he buys a decent cloak for the hotter part of the day and clothes suited to the weather.
While he's at it he buys a blank journal and ink. Thinks about it and buys a second blank journal. One for investigation. One for charting the stars. They have the time. He doesn't have to constantly spend it working. Vern's right. He doesn't have to constantly focus on work.]
Option 3: The Sparkling Sapphire
[He picks a spot at the bar and allows himself one drink. Shehui had taught him taverns and bars are good places to sit and listen to the chatter. It's mostly circle members but there are a few that aren't. He spends his time writing out what he's learned so far.
- K: Upper - Reasoning
- S: Lower - Reasoning
But only in a method that makes sense to him. He's not dumb enough to leave what he's thinking out in the open. Paranoid? Probably.
He underlines his first notes and looks up should anyone approach. Usually he can be found right at the bar, with the same drink he's barely touched and writing things down.
Astoria - Doesn't know Qri - Unsure
Qri -
A Liar- OpposeHe isn't always subtle in his notes.]
Wild card-ish
[Shiro will be wandering around the city getting used to the streets. He can found in either territory and will step in if fights break out to peacefully resolve them. However the easiest way to locate him is the Fighting Ring. What does this Champion think and what is his story? If you have other ideas hit
3!
Keith identifies with this cactus. Too strongly.
But that's not the point.] ...I got the witch a souvenir.
[Is what he says instead of a normal greeting before looking over to see what Shiro's up to.] Taking notes?
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1-A
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one - b; gosh let me know if i need to change anything
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fighting ring/wildcard-ish??
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no subject
a ) [With little money at hand and no real telling of how long the stay in this location is intended to last, Gladio has no intentions of emptying his pockets anytime soon. He has no problem investigating the wares set out on display, keeping an eye out for anything that just might be worth a purchase, something that'll come in handy in the long run.
But it's crowded, and he's not exactly a small man, so you'll have to excuse him if he accidentally nudges or pushes you as he makes his way around.]
b ) [Some of the merchants seem to not enjoy the way he seems to linger about, but he has an excellent companion to keep their mouths shut. Don't pester the armed man.
The blade, however, eventually attracts attention. As he maneuvers past arms dealers, they try haggling him into a trade for the pretty little sword strapped at his side. Gladio only grins and shakes his head.]
Sorry, not for sale.
[Some of them seem to not like this, and Gladio starts to get stares that makes him think he's no longer welcome.
And at some point, someone wants to pull something stupid. One of the merchants shouts:]
"Thief!"
[And they're pointing to him. Gladio stares, dumbfounded.]
Are you kidding me?
( two: sparkling sapphire )
[If you need a companion for a few drinks, the huge tattooed man over at the front of the tavern is more than willing to give you some company.
Or just watch in confusion as some guy just orders hot water and begins to pour it into a cup of... noodles.]
( three: fight ring )
[There's no way he's here for sight-seeing, not anymore. Now this is where his area of expertise becomes useful, and Gladio takes full advantage of the arena to blow off some steam. No weapons is his only rule here, not just because he doesn't have use of Noct's armiger but he does want to put his only available blade to use in what is essentially nothing but practice combat for him. It almost makes him feel like a kid again. He doesn't normally fight with his hands, but it's refreshing and exhilarating, and Gladio manages to make it through a good few rounds.
They're long, rough fights, but he pummels nearly all of his opponents into the ground.
Granted he's going to end up with a lot of bruises after this.
You're free to watch him though, or maybe help take care of that nasy split lip or busted knuckles he's carrying after a certain mean fight.
And perhaps, you might want to ask him for a one-on-one with yourself?]
sparkling sapphire!
[he watches Gladio pour the water into that cup of noodles with a somewhat longing expression on his features, before. . .]
-- where'd you get that?
[share the goods???]
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two!
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b.
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three; FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT
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