WORLD JUMP # 1: EL MINHA.

[acatamods]

I ▫ main IV ▫ premise       XI ▫ applications XIV ▫ activity II ▫ logs V ▫ rules VII ▫ bestiary   IX ▫ canon updates XII ▫ taken XV ▫ drop/hiatus III ▫ ooc VI ▫ faq VIII ▫ setting   X ▫ mods XIII ▫ reserves XVI ▫ players 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. “I understand that there are a lot of new people, within our fair city. Welcome to El Minha, the Jewel of the Red Desert. Enjoy our culture, our people, our wares; we welcome you, and hope you enjoy your stay.” There is a pause, though, as King Kathashun seems to weigh out what he wants to say. “I normally do not spend my time greeting tourists to our city, as our Crown Guard typically handles educating our visitors on our ways,” he continues, folding his hands behind his back. “But the heart of our city has been heavy, in recent months, and I feel it is my duty as King to be clear, to be honest, and to speak the truth. Recently, we have been attempting to hunt down individuals who wish our city harm, who have harmed my family, and my people. The Syndicate has been active, as of late, and I warn all of you who are not familiar with El Minha to avoid certain areas of the city should you wish to keep your pocketbooks.” There’s a slight quirk of his lips, as he says that, before he tilts his head in a polite gesture of greeting toward the crowd. “Please, enjoy El Minha. And should any of you garner any information concerning the Syndicate, please do not hesitate to contact me.” For the duration of your time in El Minha, King Kathashun will be within his palace . . . or so the Crown Guard says, should you ask them for an audience. That being said, you might be lucky wandering the streets. The King of El Minha tends to mingle more with the common folk than the Crown Guard would lead you to believe . . . THE GRAND MARKET 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! The merchants that work in the market are experienced, practiced sales people. They know how to sell to anyone, but especially tourists. Barter to your hearts content, but it will take a little more than a ‘please’ to get those prices down. They have expert eyes and will not take pick-pockets or thieves well. However, as experienced and watchful as the merchants may be, that won’t stop young kids on the streets targeting the tourists as well - so keep an eye out on your pockets! As long as you have coin, water, or something to trade you are welcome as long as you’d like to stay here in the El Minha Marketplace. However, if you loiter for too long, you might get a swift kick in the ass to either get moving or buy something - they’re not giving away anything for free, and that includes the shade. THE SPARKLING SAPPHIRE 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. Here, as it turns out, isn’t too shabby of a place. A large building with plenty of rooms, it is clean and fairly busy, with a bustling tavern area and rooms upstairs. You can pick up your key from the older woman behind the front desk, and are directed to the staircase in the middle of the establishment. The rooms are clean, but plain, with one or two beds depending on your preference. Downstairs in the tavern you can find food served for both breakfast and dinner, which is included in the room. Otherwise, there is a small fee for food or drink, and the servers are talented and experienced and very, very friendly. It is in the tavern that you can find the hookah, and some strange liquor as well, but it’s up to you if you choose to drink it. The food is incredible, beyond incredible, and they can make almost anything that you’ll like, though it may come out a bit creative. The main room is comfortable - with a roaring fire but without the suffocating heat. There is a bard in the corner, who will sing or tell stories or simply play, depending on the feeling of the room. Have a drink! Or a meal! While most of the people here are indeed Circle members, there may be a couple of natives mixed in as well. Take a load off, relax, and enjoy the hospitality that only a King’s Coin can bring. 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 Fight Ring is open for volunteers at any time, and once you’ve been checked for any fun business and told the rules (no magic, only weapons allowed are the ones provided, the fight will end once one side relents or is taken out of commission). If this still feels like your cup of tea, you are invited to take a spot in line. Perhaps, if you’ve shown yourself promising enough, The Champion may appear to protect their crown. Otherwise, you will find plenty of adversaries around. If you are looking for a less aggressive route, there are plenty of seats open to watch, as well as many other members of the city taking a break to watch the fights, and they certainly wouldn’t mind sharing some of their favorite stories of matches or victories. The Champion is the resounding favorite, but the stories shared will vary to the point that almost no useful information can be gleaned. Join in the festivities that surround the ring! Pick up some food, bet on some fighters, enjoy the competition, and maybe you’ll be lucky and catch a sight of The Champion, or any of the other legendary figures of the El Minha Fight Ring. THE GOLDEN PHOENIX 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. There are multiple tables where various dice and card games are being played, as well as old slot machines. There are multiple employees in dark uniforms wandering around, offering drinks to all those who are spending coin on the machines, free of charge. If you loiter too long without spending money, you will be asked why you're there -- not in a threatening way, of course. But the relationship between the Syndicate and the King isn't all that great, as of late . . . can't be too careful with spies. In the back of the Golden Phoenix, there's a tiny racing ring in the back where small lizards are being raced in a little track set on a table. You can place bets on any of the lizards and, who knows? You may win a prize, including a little lizard! How cute! (Be careful, though: they nip.) But out back, there's another lizard racing ring, though these ones are . . . well, they're certainly not tiny. In fact, people seem to be riding on them akin to horse racing . . . and jockeys are a dime a dozen, in El Minha. Fancy yourself the next Triple Crown winner? Step right up, step right up, and take a spin on the track outside! 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? :)

Comments

[tranquilforest]

[She tilts her head in a faint show of curiosity as she steps forward to take a closer look at the wares in the stall he'd been looking at, her eyes flicking first to his expression, and then to the wide array of goods.]

Might I ask what you might be interested in these items for, young master? [She asks, fingers stopping just short of touching the rough-woven cloth of the odd-looking dolls, her expression carefully neutral for the benefit of the shopkeeper who is eyeing them closely.]

[spellweave]

[He motions towards the jars of spices.] I was not seeking to purchase everything, mind you. In particular I was looking at this. I oft hear that the food at the Temple is too bland. I thought perhaps offering these spices to someone with more culinary knowledge could help with this.

[He's use to food even blander, sadly... so it makes no difference to him if the Temple food is boring. But it would be fascinating to try spices from a whole other world, wouldn't it?]

Although I am admittedly curious how the rest of it fairs against some of the other displays I am not looking to buy them. I certainly don't have the coin to purchase that much.

[tranquilforest]

[Okay, that is much much more her speed, and she nods understanding at his explanation.]

The kitchen back at the Temple is not as well stocked as it could be, that's true, but there are other ways around that. [They're working on it...slowly... Or were, before they got dragged here. Also, baby, you don't need to buy the communal things, get something nice for yourself!]

I've actually been talking to the staff at the inn we're all staying at, and they suggested a few common seasonings from what they've been cooking. [And a better place to purchase them than this particular stall right off the main thoroughfare, right where any tourists would see it first...]

[spellweave]

[She's right about that but considering he cannot help in hunting any beasts for meat and knows little of foraging he figured maybe this is the next best thing...!

He seems to think on this for a moment. He glances towards the shopkeeper staring at them and then at the goods he is displaying. He understands what she might be implying.]

I see. I had not considered consulting them first before setting out on this errand so you were wiser than I. [He offers a friendly smile.] Perhaps you could show me where I might find the more common spices. The selection here seems much too extravagant for the type of dishes the Temple provides.

[This may not actually be true as he doesn't know what are considered the common spices but he has read between the lines a bit in that maybe here wasn't the spot to purchase them in.]

[tranquilforest]

[Ooh, nicely done. She can't help but appreciate such a smooth demonstration of tact and diplomacy.]

I think I know a place that might better suit what you're looking for. [She says, her voice pitched just enough to dissuade the stall's owners from pursuing this particular sale any longer as she leads him away.]

I did want to ask if you had a favorite dish from what we've been served so far though. [It's an easy enough topic for conversation, and they have a short walk ahead of them.] Or perhaps you're looking for something with a taste closer to your home?

[spellweave]

Then I shall follow your lead. Thank you. [He offers a polite bow to the stall owner. No hard feelings.....? Well, even if there are, he won't be back so it doesn't matter.

He follows her away with some relief. He's certainly glad he asked or he may have made a poor purchase.

Her question makes him chuckle and he offers a friendly smile.] If you wish to create a dish from my home you would have to make it even blander than the Temple does. Where I was born, Sharlayan, is a city state of scholars. Food is no exception to study and they cook based on what is most practical rather than what tastes the best. While you'll find nothing healthier in all the world you'll also be hard pressed to find something more plain. [He's only aware of this because he left and the food found elsewhere was like a whole different world.]

On the bright side I am always willing to try dishes I am unfamiliar with though I've yet to find something I could call my favorite. [He's not picky!]

[tranquilforest]

[She laughs a little at his explanation, her tone friendly and pleasant, as if his story reminded her of something.]

I'm afraid I'm all too acquainted with that kind of philosophy when it comes to food. It seems both scholars and soldiers are likely to look at food only as fuel rather than something to be enjoyed.

[spellweave]

[That piques his curiosity a bit.]

Oh? I suppose when it comes to the battlefield I can understand the mindset. For scholars, however, I attribute it to mere stubbornness. [Or something to that effect. Traveling away from home made him realize there was really no reason to treat food like an object of study if you were blessed with the luxury to enjoy it to the fullest.]

Thankfully my travels have taught me food is best enjoyed when crafted by those with the better appreciation for the art of making it rather than the practicality.

[tranquilforest]

Food is as much required for the mind as it is for the body. [She says, almost gently teasing in tone.]

Which means it's even more important for it to provide enjoyment and nourishment for the soul, not just fuel for work. [Oh look, they're almost to the new stall, and the owner actually greets Jing with some measure of familiarity, looking at her younger companion with curiosity.]

[spellweave]

On that, I could not agree more. [Ever has he found comfort in the good tasting food and drink of Eorzea. He couldn't imagine finding that same solace with food from home...

He greets the curious stare of the shop owner with a polite bow. It's maybe a bit much but given the situation they are not unlike diplomats to each world they visit. As such it would be wise to treat this as he would any political situation and so he treads carefully, ever polite to even the most common looking individual.

He addresses the shop owner:] I was led to believe by your lovely acquaintance here that you sold a more common variety of seasonings. I would very much like to sample them, if it pleases you.

[The owner smiles and indicates the section of the display where the spices sit. Specifically the bottom row where these common spices rest. The prices of them are a world apart from the other stall, he notices. Brilliant.

He glances back up at Jing.] Though I did not doubt it you were certainly right that this was the place to shop. Ah... but I beg your pardon. I never properly asked for your name nor did I introduce myself. I am Alphinaud Leveilleur, at your service.

[tranquilforest]

[He's adorable, she would pinch his cheeks if he weren't already past the age where it would be deleterious to his dignity.]

It's a pleasure to meet you, young master Leveilleur. [She replies with a polite curtsy of greeting.] My name is Lin Xinyao, but please feel free to call me Miss Jing or Auntie Jing, so long as you're comfortable with that.

[She points out one of the newer spices native to El Minha that she hadn't run into before.] That one is quite interesting. There's a bit of spice to it that still mixes well with other flavors.

[spellweave]

[And he is oh so easily embarrassed! Case in point that calling her 'auntie' is a mortifying thought even if was a gesture made in kindness. N-No, he can't call her that...]

Same to you, Miss Jing. [He defaults to the most polite option... and the name he is less likely to mispronounce. He's better at the names of the far east than he use to be after his visit to Doma--and her name sounds very much like it could come from there--but it was still awkward to mispronounce someone's name.

He glances at the spices again when she directs his attention.] I see. They say the best spice is one you cannot distinguish though I know not if that is true. You seem to be quite the culinary expert, however. Is it your trade?

[tranquilforest]

[She shakes her head, still smiling.] I know how to make a small number of things very well, but the majority of dishes I come up with are not exactly welcomed by the recipients for their taste.

[She's downplaying her abilities somewhat, but the statement is mostly true.] There are many common blends of spices that are used together so often that it can be strange to find them apart. It's all in the balance of the dish, the quality of the ingredients, and what kind of effect you are intending for those who eat it.

On the other hand, there are items that you might combine for their efficacy or medicinal properties, without regard for their taste.

[spellweave]

[Medicinal properties, she says. Hmm. That catches his interest more than the rest of it and brings to mind a different train of thought.]

I'd not considered the medicinal purposes for it. You're familiar with more... traditional medicine, then? [Magic was the source of healing in his world and so that was all he had ever learned. Although surely that basic knowledge could be applied to learning it a different way, somehow.]

I learned the art of healing in my home world but... it is not available to me here. So I had been considering learning alternate methods however I was not certain where to start. [It's very important to him that he has this skill in some form or another.]

[tranquilforest]

[She laughs a little bit at his question, amusement directed mainly at herself.] I think if considered against the skills of most of the people here and others in the Circle, my knowledge of medicine might seem almost more archaic than traditional.

But healing people with magic is not something I can do, even though the Lady Astoria has granted some that gift, and as long as those skills I learned can still be of use, I will use them. [She tilts her head at him curiously.] There are many limitations, and I'm out of practice as a teacher, but if you'd still be interested in learning from me...

[spellweave]

Any knowledge is useful knowledge depending on how one puts it to use. [Even if he learns something different down the road, something that may be considered less "archaic" as she puts it, he will at least have a basis to go on. As it stands right now he knows almost nothing.]

If you are willing to teach me then I would be honored. Although perhaps lessons would be better suited for times when we are at the temple.

[tranquilforest]

Then I'll be sure to seek you out for your lessons once we are returned to the temple by Lady Astoria. I remember sometimes chasing after my son and his best friends when it came time for their own lessons, but I trust I won't have similar trouble with you, young Master Leveilleur. [She says, almost teasing, her expression warm and not at all stern.]

[spellweave]

[That earns a small laugh. No child in Sharlayan would dare do such a thing... although he imagines there were those that did anyway. Sometimes his sister straddled that line too so he is familiar with her struggles.]

I assure you I am ever a diligent student. You have my word. [He offers her a polite bow.] I thank you in advance for your time... and thank you further for your counsel on the matter of pricing.

[tranquilforest]

[She dips a curtsy in return, finding some comfort in the familiar gesture, for once not so obviously out-of-place with her conversation partner, and nods in agreement.] I'll look forward to it then. Take care of yourself. If there is anything further I can help with, please feel free to ask.