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expiationmeme2023-01-23 02:02 am
TEST DRIVE MEME #1
Welcome to the TDM for Expiation, a pan-fandom adventure game with fantasy, science fiction, and sometimes subtle horror elements. We ask that top-level comments are reserved for new characters and players looking to experience a taste of the world and overarching storyline. Feel free to submit any TDM / prompt-related questions to the corresponding comment below.
New players / characters looking to app are free to use TDM threads as samples in their application. Preexisting players / characters may use TDM threads as part of their AC proofs.
You may find the below links helpful in getting to know themes of the world, locations, the people, and so on.
A WARM WELCOME
The journey here has not been a particularly convenient one. The last thing you can recall is the room of blinding white and the incomprehensible voices that were speaking about you. Then came the dropping of the floor beneath you and suddenly you were falling into black. As you come to and regain a more clear vision of the world about you, you find that you are surrounded by pleasant greenery.
Deciduous trees are sprinkled here and there in some miscellaneous fashion. There are plants and flowers all about, the chirping of birds. Above you rests a fairly clear sky with a dotting or two of clouds. The sun is pleasant. Overall, it’s comfortable. Perhaps too comfortable.
MEADOWLANDS ARRIVAL
Within eyesight, though you can’t possibly know the footing distance, there appear to be fields. A portion of them dedicated to long stalk vegetables and the rest a neatly organised collection of leafy greens. Upon closer inspection, you’ll find that some of these look ready to be picked right away. Not much further past the fields are other buildings. Simple in style and not at all grand in structure or make. There’s people, too. It looks lively. The locals will tell you that you’ve set foot in Aldrip.
Not far from you, in fact relatively close if not in hand already, is a rolled parchment bound by a rather nondescript twine. If you unfurl it, you’ll find a generic welcoming message addressed specifically to you.Welcome to Expiation. We, who have found you so worthy and deserving, have declared you to be one of the Chosen.
The cryptic written greeting is followed by a collection of recorded statistics—physical and mental attributes, along with other observations about your person that clearly weren’t made by you (but may not necessarily be inaccurate).
Nearing the bottom is a peculiar line—You have been charged with ▬▬ and in accordance with the doctrine of this world, you have ▬▬ until you will face your sentencing. Prepare your defence adequately or face the repercussions.
In spite of that strange little addition at the bottom, which may or may not make sense to you, you’re not the only one arriving in the meadowlands. You have some options. Maybe check with a nearby fellow otherworlder, scour the fields, meet the locals. First impressions, after all, can sometimes last a lifetime.
WILD COMPANIONS
The collective of newly-arrived aren’t the only ones exploring the meadowlands. Curious about the various sounds created by those not native to the world, there are animals living in and near the surrounding areas drawn to the attention. Different types and sizes of birds and beasts or other creatures that may resemble ones from your home world begin to close in on your location. Do they mean to do you harm or are they only simply wary about who you might be and what you’re doing?
Some of them are incredibly friendly, especially if you’re inclined to provide them with food, or if they’re younger and they simply don’t know better. But be aware, for every young animal, there is likely to be a parent not far behind, and less inclined to be understanding of your strange fate in this new predicament. As such, no matter how cute something may be, reconsider taking it with you, else you may simply stir the ire of their families.
If you find yourself in a position where you’ve inadvertently stepped into a territory not meant for you, you’ll need to find either a strategic escape or resort to force and self-defence. Fortunately, some of these larger, more aggressive beasts, are much the same ones that the locals in Aldrip have been seeking to cull for the safety of the citizens. Maybe you can make some fast friends with the Expiation natives by bringing them something you’ve had to put down.
THOSE WHO WERE THERE
Those Who Were There are what the locals refer to their gods as, considering them responsible for their continued growth in the world, the abundance of their crops and sea life, the greenery that surrounds them, native wildlife, and some of the strangely advanced luxury items that make their livelihoods a touch more convenient.
You’ve arrived at an opportune time. Although the peoples of the continent freely show their appreciation for their higher beings, every once in a while, they celebrate by way of joyful festivals, grand songs, and more expressive means of their devotion.
FESTIVITIES
Aldrip seems to be a bit busier than usual, with a little more foot traffic than what may be considered a normal day in the life. There’s music in the air provided by lutes, panpipes, and the dulcet tones of men and women alike, expressing songs and tall tales of those they have come to revere as celestial beings. They believe that honouring their betters can be done with song and dance as much as it can be with offerings and prayer.
The town is bustling, a plethora of additional street stalls selling all kinds of local cuisine, jewellery, weapons, and accessories branded with insignias that represent the same wave motif as can be found on the charms every newly-arrived will receive. There’s raucous laughter, a plethora of drinks (alcoholic and non) that are passed along merrily to those wandering through if one doesn’t have a drink already. It’s the perfect way to integrate yourself with the people whilst taking in the celebration.
A portion of the town has had the land cleared, set up with a minimalistic coliseum ring for archery competition and one-on-one combat. Winners of these exchanges don’t get anything grand, but are presented with plenty of free food and drink, and some may even be awarded with some modest badge accessories from the local shops for providing the people with some sport.
Out by the fields, closer to the shoreline of the Talion Sea, there’s a grand pillar of fire that’ll burn all through the day and into the dark of the night where more music follows and accompanies spirited dancing.
SENTIMENTAL OFFERINGS
If you’re searching for a momentary reprieve from the bustle of the festival, there’s a modest walkway of cobblestone that will lead you from the main streets of stalls, drinks, and making merry. Following the way it winds and curves will eventually take you to an elaborate display of dried flowers, jewellery, fanciful cloths, and other items. Some of these hang from nearby trees. Some are draped over an altar fashioned of dark wood.
A local who spies you there kindly explains that it’s a place to leave items of offering for Those Who Were There, as gratitude for all they have granted their loyal people. They also explain that the more sentimental attachment you hold for the item you give up, the more pleased the gods will be with you. What does that mean, exactly? It’s difficult to say, but it seems that it might endear you to the locals at the very least.
Those who leave an item will receive a noticeable wave-like mark on the interior of their dominant hand wrist, almost as if it’s a brand of some kind. This is temporary mark and will only last the length of the festival, but if locals see it, they will be more inclined to give information on the land, the people, and perhaps even extra drinks, food, or shop wares.
Even if you don’t leave an item, as you’ve only just arrived and you may not have much on your person, the locals won’t punish you or think ill of you. It’ll give you a chance to gather yourself before you go back to the festival proper. If you choose to go back at all. The relative quiet is so welcoming, after all.
THE GLITCH EFFECT
NO SIGNAL
If you’ve arrived in this world with a mobile device or something akin to (notebook, laptop, and so on), you’ll find that whilst there are no electrical outlets, there are slender and flat platforms available to keep items of this nature with a charge. You cannot connect to a network and there’s no signal for a connection to grapple onto. That said, programmes that don’t require a connection to be of use (note taking applications, calculators, games), are still operable.
You may find, however, in the use of these programmes that perhaps images are not displaying properly. The colouration may be inverted. There may be unexplainable lines drawn across graphics. Text may not accurately be presented, instead a jumble and tangle of letters, forming what looks more like a mass of verbal tendrils across your screen.
Bizarre and strange sounds may emerge from your device, sometimes a low hum that may be indiscernible to others. Sometimes a high frequency that lingers in the air. It may be just a flash of sound. It may be several seconds long.
Furthermore, it is possible that you may find strange imagery imprinted on the screen temporarily, even where there should be no graphic at all. It’s there for a moment or two before it fades away, almost as if it’s subliminal messaging. The strange imagery is difficult to make out—a highly detailed eye, or perhaps what appears to be an angular face. No two images will be the same, though some may hold some eerily similar depictions.
This strange happenstance will occur periodically until the festival reaches its conclusion.
STATIC BUZZING
Don’t think if you didn’t arrive with a mobile device or related that you’re free from some of the strange electronic phenomena. Devices that are native to Expiation will experience similar errors. The difference is that the devices as a collective (personal computers, printers, cameras, the platforms for charging devices, and more) will emit a fluctuating and repeating frequency of sound cycling from high to low. Some will be able to hear it, some will not, but for those who do, it will come accompanied with a static buzzing sound, as if a connection somewhere is on its last proverbial legs.
There isn’t a means to stop the sound from emerging without depowering the device in question and even the locals don’t seem to know what to do. There are several devices strewn about Aldrip, however, so even if you should unplug one, there will be others expressing the same assault on the ears. Aldrip’s people don’t seem particularly alarmed, however, explaining to those who ask that this sort of thing simply happens every so often, and should they but have faith, Those Who Were There will handle all things ‘in good time.’
Unlike the personal devices brought in by newly-arrived, the electronic devices of Expiation will not display incorrect / jumbled graphics, text, or bizarre flashing images, which may be considered a blessing in disguise, despite having to experience the potentially annoying hum. This strange occurrence, too, will mysteriously end once the festivities have drawn to a close.
Elidibus | Final Fantasy XIV | Endwalker Spoilers
Yet something else had other plans. The shift from the majestic descent to stark white nothing is distinct. There are voices, but even if there were time to speak to them, it is in Elidibus's nature to get his bearings and observe, regardless of how shocking the experience may be. How upsetting it is to be ripped from his deserved rest. The second descent into darkness is not one welcomed but nothing he can grasp in those moments prevent it.
Afterward there is a meadow, a living, breathing world, and possibly others who seem to be in a similar predicament.
i. it's dangerous....ish in the (meadow)
He finds the missive in his possession somewhat... vague to say the least. But for now, Elidibus takes the context to mean this is some sort of holdover before a formal hearing, judgment and sentencing. For who he didn't know. And he was unlikely to find out standing there and rereading the parchment. It is rolled up and tucked away.
There were other matters of interest. The wind playing across the meadow and distant fields and a climate that suggested late spring or summer? An abundance of living things as well, both beast and man and some were even familiar. But many, including the aether of this world, were not.
But in matters of living things, he realized the way the sun warmed his skin and the breeze ruffled his robe or the way his eyes could view the world and its flow of aether without compromise was not what one might expect to feel as a mere soul. Not even as the being modern man had known as Ascian. He was alive and not because he had animated some borrowed mortal form.
Lost in the moment of self-reflection, he raises his arms. His vestments are still robes, but a much simpler white frock than the one he'd worn as Lord Zodiark's emissary. He still bears the mask of office which had become his only identity in the way it mattered, a red half-face with slit eyes and a beaked nosepiece. Bare fingers touch the surface and trace its familiar shape before moving on. Yes, a cowl is in place, though after a moment's thought it is cast back to his shoulders out of respect for the unknown threats that may yet come.
"I... live? Yet how can this be?" His lips pull downward, though it seems an expression of wary thought than displeasure. "It is not Hydaelyn's doing." In fact, all but ridiculous for a lot of reasons beyond an uncharacteristic level of petty involved. "No, something else... Something beyond our Star, it seems."
He sets forth then, on foot. Perhaps an uncharacteristic way to travel, but calculated. He is expecting to find others on the way and they could provide information. Or possibly someone could be preparing to bump into him.
ii there's always at least one wallflower (festivities)
Elidibus is at the festivities for one main reason. There is a lot to learn from people. Both native and outsider, from how they conduct themselves, to their common sense and values; it paints a picture of this new society. Having lowered the mask from his face- the bright red now rests against the white of his mantle- luminous blue eyes are watchful, ears ever alert for wisps of useful conversation. And he's never too far from the drinking, dancing, music or competitions.
Often with drink in hand, he drifts in and out of the spots of merriment as if he were a wallflower of the utmost caliber which he can surely be mistaken for and called out on, right?
Yet there's the other side where the man with the youthful countenance asks a question to spark conversation or finds someone who gets more verbose when tipsy. Much is calculative. But every so often there's a gleam of hidden personal interest.
To someone with a plate of a novel food dish he asks, "Is that enjoyable?"
iii fzzzsh zzsst crackle (glitch or static)
Whether or not the strange humming from native machines is expected, happens during all festival times, has a pattern of occurrence or may be related to the recent appearance of those in the field, Elidibus can get no clear answer from the natives despite whom he asks. And it is of interest, enough that he can be found observing the phenomenon near another device or searching for discrepancies.
Such as a device brought in to the world from outside and its differing pattern.
Someone may approach him listening intently to the annoying hum of a native device. Or if they have a glitching piece of technology, Elidibus will approach and ask a question.
"Is such technology something native to this star?" One should be careful to make sure it wasn't just picked up after all.
i. it's dangerous in the meadow
Emet-Selch had experienced something similar. When welcomed back into the Aetherial Sea in death, he too had been granted the return of important memories, important moments - in Elpis. Moments forgotten which might otherwise have changed the course of their history, moments which lend a harsh irony to the actions wrought by his own hand. Those moments, too, had contributed to his interference in what would become their Emissary's final stand, the original Warrior of Light against Hydaelyn's Chosen.
He cannot say he regrets the choice even now, though he would understand if that choice was far from appreciated; even resented.
He has no way of knowing exactly "who" approaches. He can see with his own eyes that Elidibus appears as he once did back in the Unsundered World, yet whether that means he has been drawn here from the before or the after, or whether he yet remains as last he remembers him (a man driven by duty yet woefully lacking in expression and sentiment) - that is a mystery he doubts he'll have to wait overly long to solve.
"Elidibus." Emet-Selch greets him calmly, divulging no emotion in particular, though he does watch the other man carefully to see how he will react.
no subject
There is no surprise or puzzlement over Emet-Selch's visage. It is unlikely this is the young man who has yet to know the tragedy that befalls their people.
After another moment's thought, Elidibus raises his hands once more and removes his mask. It may seem to be just courtesy given the lack on the part of his colleague. But it possibly has more meaning. Once it is hanging at his chest, the man looks up to his colleague once again.
"I did not expect to meet again." Not in this life, as they are. It occurred to him that Emet-Selch, in the likeness he bears, may not realize what he's speaking of. He expects the response will give him some insight.
Although reserved, maybe more so than he had ever shown during the times of the Unsundered World, there exists a spark which had not been present in the Elidibus Emet-Selch may have last known. Luminous blue eyes look at Emet-Selch rather than through him to some distant, far reaching goal he was once driven to reach without ever remembering why.
Resentment? None is present, at least not visibly so. One might even think him a little relieved. Something else that is more readily shown without masks and cowl to hide expression.
no subject
He is known like this, of that much there is no doubt. For as Elidibus reaches up and lowers his mask from his face, Emet-Selch becomes aware of the shift in countenance - that he is seen and remembered. There is no surprise and no anger that he can detect in those pure blue eyes, and for a moment he is robbed of a response.
For all that he may have complained about his Ascian colleagues and their methods, for all that he may have come to detest their untimely interruptions, Emet-Selch did and does care about them in his way. Perhaps the man simply found it easier to pretend otherwise than to dwell upon how much they had changed.
Emet-Selch wordlessly raises a hand to his own heart, brow furrowed. The ragged path torn by an aetherial axe is absent, of course, and his borrowed form for the moment whole. Yet a bittersweet feeling wells up within his breast all the same. There is sorrow, yes, but also a tentative sliver of peace. For though he may have been defeated, had he not been fighting all this time to see his brothers again?
His arm drops to his side and some of the tension leaves him.
"Nor I. At least, not like this."
Emet-Selch looks back to him then. "If I may be presumptuous for but a moment, 'tis good to see you."
no subject
Not like this. There is a lot of hidden meaning in three simple words. But Elidibus can not blame him for them.
"You are free to do as you wish, Emet-Selch." Yet such typical words of the Emissary come from lips ever faintly curved with a gentle smile. "I find myself sharing such sentiment."
He is grateful for it.
Elidibus casts his gaze toward the meadow and their surroundings. "...Though it's clear this is a far from any reunion I should have expected with my brethren." Somberly he returns his attention to his colleague.
"I expect you found yourself in possession of a missive stating some crime?"
no subject
"Still, if the two of us are in agreement on the matter, you will not find me complaining about it."
Which is just about as close as Emet-Selch will ever come to saying that such sentiments please him. If one were to look closely enough, however, they might just catch the barest hint of an upturned curve at the corner of his mouth.
He cannot say he is surprised when the topic shifts. Memories or no memories, Elidibus has never been one to sit idly by, and that suits Emet-Selch just fine as well. This isn't, after all, a small matter but one which is altogether unprecedented.
"So I have. As well as mention of a sentencing. From what I have gathered thus far, it would seem this missive is something that all of those summoned here have in common."
And because he would find a second opinion invaluable: "What do you make of it?"
no subject
"It seems we are." No doubt Elidibus had notice that smile and less as much that he would mention its presence. The topic shifts because it regrettably must. If there is time enough later...
The question earns narrowed eyes, though the gaze is clearly one of deep thought.
"I would not be so quick to judge, with so little information. It is possible we will find more in the village ahead or with others in similar circumstances." He might wonder whether there were any more 'criminals' with more details, but it would certainly be best to eliminate the possibility before dismissing it outright.
"I for one was plucked from the edge of the Aetherial Sea." He looks to himself momentarily. "...And restored to life. An act which would take no small power. Given our unfamiliar surroundings and Lord Zodiark's demise," a trace of... some emotion here. It is new and fresh still, for all he was grateful of the elder Primal's release. It still marked the true end for their dream. "I would hazard to guess this power is outside the bounds of our star."
In control of his emotions again, he dares to focus steadily on Emet-Selch. "Did you experience the white realm during your transition?"
no subject
"Always the considered approach," he says in return. "For my part, I am merely conveying what I have witnessed. Impartiality is not my strong suit after all. Nevertheless, I do agree that we are woefully lacking in information. Mayhap a more thorough investigation will yield different results."
As to Lord Zodiark, Emet-Selch's connection to the elder Primal was not quite so personal, yet it was also undeniable. With His demise comes the death of their one Answer to forestall the Final Days, their one means to restore their perfect world. And without Him... well. His mind feels a touch clearer, so there's something. One can only hope that a certain hero manages to come up with a backup plan. Elsewise Emet-Selch should not like to think on the potential consequences.
"You must know, then, that I was defeated."
His expression is unreadable as he continues.
"I, too, was pulled from the Aetherial Sea, though it has been some time since I was first set adrift within that flow. Given I can detect no trace of our Lifestream's presence here, it may safely be concluded that we now find ourselves upon some other star, in some other corner of the vast universe. I also know of few who possess the power to accomplish a feat of this magnitude, much less the means to see it done. And so I think by process of elimination, the possibility of this power deriving from beyond Etheirys is, as you've guessed, extremely likely."
"As to the process of my finding myself here, there was indeed a moment where I found myself surrounded by stark, white nothingness. The sound of voices followed, yet towards the end I could no longer discern their words, much less manage to glimpse their aether."
(no subject)
ii / there's always at least one wallflower
The other souls in attendance (and there are so very many) form a patchwork of moving colour. While not being strong enough- not quite special enough- to obscure the soul of Elidibus, they nonetheless cause a form of interference. A blanket of (charming) irrelevancy that while interesting in its own way, wasn't precisely what he was looking for.
To someone with lesser sight, it would likely be a gargantuan attempt. Yet to him, it merely complicates things. A few hours into the event he is guided true, and he is led within range of the man that appeared as a youth in his peripheral. And so very rare it was to see the Emissary so starkly. In life, he had most assuredly glanced upon him once or twice- yet his gaze had ever been held by two others. In death, however...
That was quite the opposite. Brief as it was, it was impactful.
He waits quite patiently as Elidibus asks his questions to what appears to be a quite nondescript looking local with an extraordinary-looking plate of food. And he has no issue with waiting. It is only when the conversation appears to be over, and when the youth is pointed to a brightly coloured stall (the origin of said plate, perhaps?) that he thinks to step forward.
And...
"We meet again."
A simple enough introduction, absolutely. Yet it simply would not do to show his concern to a soul- a man- that perhaps would not recall him as a single colour within so very many of the sacrificed.
something deep-fried something powdered on a stick food?
His contemplations are cut short as someone steps out of the crowd to greet him. The hallmark of his kin are clear this close, both physical and aetherical. Had he been aware of being followed? Well that depends on just how close Hythlodaeus had gotten, following the occasional glimpse of Elidibus's soul like some silver-blue flash of fish scales in a living river of people.
But one way or another he's surprised by just who approaches him. Enough that his eyes widen in recognition.
"You're Hythlodaeus, are you not?" How close he had been to the man was mostly irrelevant. It would have been reasonable to know the various chiefs of important facilities. Once upon a time, he would not have remembered. But with newfound clarity, how could he not at least recognize the dear friend of his friend and Emet-Selch?
As to their joint time as Lord Zodiark, at least in the beginning, would he have not been at least a little bit mindful of a certain soul's presence, if only for the sake of some lingering memory for the absent Azem?
It's been made abundantly clear to Elidibus that his perception of time's passage doesn't necessarily have the same relevance to others. When seems to matter moreso than 'how'. It's a question on his mind, in his gaze as he looks up at the taller Ancient in query.
Sure! Very bad for you but very yummy, got it! <3
Ah- the fact that he was recognized is quite surprising to him. Yet it is a pleasant surprise. While he all but expected that his hue would be thought familiar, given that it merged with Elidibus' own and so very many others throughout the duration of his control of Zodiark- actually being named and correctly, at that, is the cause of a soft, small, yet nonetheless meant smile.
He takes that recognition as cause to stride forward- longlegged, graceful- no small amount of fondness present in his unmasked eyes. Fondness, yes. Fondness given freely, fondness that befits any of their kind's appearance. Yet also fondness for so very much more than just that. Given that he was not a man overly prone to sentimentality, he does not remark upon it. Instead, he should make comment on a man that is.
"Dubious circumstances aside, I am quite certain Emet-Selch shall be glad for your arrival. He accompanied me but a moment ago before disappearing quite abruptly, more's the pity. I imagine you well recall his lack of patience for crowds."
His smile widens, just barely- indicating that he thinks the matter a source of great amusement. And:
"You appear well. Of that I am glad... All told, I had wondered."
Wondered. Been concerned. But ultimately, like all that were left behind, unable to do anything about the entire affair. Exiting Zodiark, after all, was not anything that should have left anyone's soul even remotely intact.
no subject
"I encountered him earlier. Though it doesn't surprise me to not find him here." Not in the midst of festivities, crowded on all sides by crowds. Particularly (mostly?) mortal crowds. Emet-Selch will undoubtedly reappear ere long.
The subject moves on and after a moment's pause, Elidibus opens his eyes again to regard Hythlodaeus. He is not unaware of their particular connection. Rather it might be said he was more keenly aware of it, without the presence of an overwhelming number of souls calling out in chorus. However vague the words, it seems enough to understand the where and whence his fellow Ancient speaks of. There would be precious few he would admit his own answer to.
"I did only what my duty required of me. What I believed our people needed." Still believes; he would have withdrawn again if it meant another chance to quell the unrest that inevitably split their world asunder.
"In truth it has been very long ere I felt whole." For a second, Elidibus shifts his gaze to watch the crowd pass them by. His tone is quieter even if it may still be heard. "Such was the cost. It was to be expected."
He still finds it hard to believe it happened.
no subject
Most would think it the indication of something terrible- A tension they were not privy to- an indicator of some other very great problem. Yet not him. To him and the remit of his knowledge, Emet-Selch's silence on the matter signifies something else.
Care.
Even affection.
His dear friend ever had been wont to keep things important to him close to his chest.
And that something else is something quite sweet. The mere thought of the absent third seat lingering in some dark corner somewhere overcome by emotion (and doing his utmost to dispel it to no avail) is the source of very great joy. It is a private joy, a private knowledge. It is not commented upon- yet Elidibus would likely notice the way his soul is all but shimmering- as if it, itself, is laughing at the predicament a man with ever too many feelings was likely having at this very moment.
Still. That is that, and that is not all his dealings with Elidibus. So. He sombers, somewhat- raising his hand to his chin in concern.
"And as for now?" An astute question, given that he knew of Elidibus' demise and the fact that his return to the star (or at least, that single fraction of it) should have granted him all returned. ...Theoretically. Yet it is only a question. While there is little issue to him with looking for Elidibus' soul on a surface level, he would not dare be as so rude to properly interrogate it with the utmost of his vision without permission.
And.
"...Well. I imagine a proper answer to such a question depends upon a great many things. A full stomach, I imagine, is a very important part of that." A small smile follows. Personally, the very first sensation he'd experienced upon being pulled from the aetherial sea was hunger. Perhaps it was the same for Elidibus. Asking about the plate from earlier seemed some indication of that. "So. Shall I ask you after we have eaten?"
We, meaning mostly Elidibus. For he feels that for proper payment for that duty, he could very well use the rest of this life bestowed to him to balance the scale. ...Yet if he can begin with anything, it is with a proper meal.
no subject
For now? The query gives Elidibus reason to think and a pause that's certainly long enough for Hythlodaeus to add in a gentle reminder that he'd been considering some form of nourishment, however outlandish its form.
It's a welcome suggestion and one that will give him more time to think on how he feels now. Elidibus nods in agreement.
"I was considering a meal and I would be pleased to join you." The gaze of the shorter man roams across the stalls; while he had been eyeing the extravagant festival food before, it seems fitting that if he's to have a proper meal with company, it would be better to look for something a bit more balanced.
As for funds, well. He managed to obtain a small amount of coin since his arrival. It was easy enough and the natives seemed willing to offer some form of basic work to the newcomers.
"I believe there was something promising in this direction." A gesture to point down a lane where not only some more 'restaurant' like meals could be had, there would also be seating available. Provided they didn't look for a quieter location.
no subject
So it is the stalls, then. And there are so many of them. Some stalls have assorted battered and fried meat on sticks ("Corn dogs", or so the sign says. Hythlodaeus would query the origin of the meat given that name...) some have bags and bags and bags of coffee-coloured squares which, when eaten, certainly are not as bitter as the colour would suggest- instead soft, chewy, and perhaps a little bit sickly. Some stalls, the more interesting smelling ones anyway, have something called funnel cake, which appears to be naught but a batter forced into hot oil, scooped up, and dusted with sugar. There are less dessert-centric ones, of course. Such as a stall with an array of fried corn lined up, another with apples on sticks, another that apparently fries pickled vegetables and cheeses (of all things!) one that serves an array of meat, onions and peppers in bread...
It goes on and on. Truly, it does. On Hythlodaeus' part, he cannot help but be drawn to a stall with a large and noisy metal tub. A worker spins a stick around in it, and the stick would become covered in a brilliantly coloured mass of fibers that scarcely look edible- yet are pretty regardless. Oh, and money appeared to not enter the equation. Upon looking at Hythlodaeus (a sideeffect of the mark on his wrist, he imagines.) he would be given the stick without an exchange being required.
Well. That's what he's having, then. As for Elidibus...?
(no subject)
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3!
...Yet that was a painfully droll way to spend one's life. And mark of sin or not, festering and mouldering was not his thing. Not at all. What good was a male Mithra in the grand scheme of things if he turned a blind eye to an apparent child seemingly separated from their parents?
No kind, most assuredly.
So it is with an errant flick of his ear that he notes the (seeming) child looking at something in a quite perplexed fashion. A swish of his tail, and he advances with the characteristic soft, soundless steps of all of his kind. His eyes move to the device, then to the (not!) child.
"Ignore that contrrraption, little one."
Certain syllables are rolled. A hallmark of all of his kind, and their animalistic vocal cords, particularly when in thought or agitated.
"I do not know what it is. All I know is that the racket it produces would indicate it brrroken. And quite boring besides..."
He, not that much taller than Elidibus given his kind's propensity for diminutiveness, would incline his head to deliver a bright smile. His ears even move back accordingly. Charming. Innocuous. Friendly. For he still thinks, despite Elidibus' voice saying much to the contrary, that he is dealing with a youth.
"Where arrre your parents?"
A few sniffs. Soundless, of course, delicate. Distinctly feline. There was so much information to be gathered, after all. Words were barely half of it.
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Such a courteous young lad.
A return to (relative) height has come with some disadvantages it seems. Far be it for the Emissary to be shaken by something so simple as being mistaken for a child.
"Your concern is kind. Despite my appearance, I am an adult by my people's standard." If his voice didn't make it obvious, perhaps his vocabulary does. Elidibus looks at the device again.
"It reminds me of some outside interference. Every piece of technology seems afflicted. Does it not interest you?"
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...Well. Given his race, there are disadvantages to be had from moving in such a clumsy, lumbering fashion. Disadvantages to scent and hearing and sight, a disconnection to nature...
But that cannot be helped. He appears what he appears- a rather short hyur, albeit with strange eyes.
His ears rise, slowly. Carefully, and given that his sense of smell has taken all that it needs to know, his breathing returns to a more regular, steady pace.
And he laughs.
"...Ahahahaha! Oh, I'm not used to misfires. How embarrassing..."
A few paces follow that, mostly around Elidibus. His tail swishes, back and forth a few times, as he takes the measure of such a confusing little hyuran. And finally, as he moves in front of him once more, he notes that he is still transfixed by the strange machine he has no point of reference for.
"It does not. It is a thing that produces annoying sound... and confusing picturrrres. Yet I think if it would have harmed us, it would have already. Do you not?"
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"The error is not without reason, given my appearance," he allows without resentment. Polite, almost forgiving. But truthfully it's not something worth being troubled about. Mortals have so often allowed first impressions to cloud their perception. At least this one seems willing to admit their mistake.
"Those who live here seem unconcerned enough. If nothing more that would suggest there is little danger until the matter is resolved by their gods." 'Their' gods, not 'the'. But for a time Elidibus seems willing to turn away and focus his full attention on Lehko.
"May I presume you are also not native to this place?" Elidibus hesitates to call it a star in its own right, yet. But with the Mithran's words about the technology- calling it 'contraption' and 'thing', it seems very unlikely he'd come from any place with such technology, much less this town.
ii - she has a history with wallflowers
So she throws herself into the festivities with a gleam in her eyes and a flush on her cheeks. Moving from hot spot to hot spot, the stranger is easy enough to spot. Always more on the edges, but seemingly content to just watch. Which brings a smile to Rinoa's face. That's a familiar trait and propels her feet towards him.
"It sounds like dancing is an important part of the festivities here." Her smile widens impishly as she stops just outside of his personal space. She holds out a hand, but keeps it a respectable distance away. Forward, but not pushy.
"It'd be rude to not take part, you know? So I think you should dance with me."
Oh noes, the worst fate!
sulkingleaning against a pillar you know.When Rinoa approaches him, Elidibus stops and tilts his head slightly to one side. It may be clear that he's studying her, but he doesn't seem startled or reluctant. Curious? Maybe. It's true he's trying to gauge her intent.
"Do you think so?" His voice is deep but he's nothing if not polite with his words. Elidibus acknowledges that this young mortal is making an effort to not be overbearing and he considers her outstretched hand before looking at the group of twirling revelers.
The look on his face suggests he's giving the suggestion very serious thought; as though determining whether or not engaging in the dancing was a matter of grave importance. He seems the serious sort.
"I fear I'm not overly familiar with dancing. Like as not I would cause trouble for you by participating than is worth the effort to negate any rudeness on my part."
At least she's sparing him the hypnotism.... for now
Having nothing to hide, Rinoa doesn't mind the examination. Dressed in her usual clothes, the only difference is there's a paler streak on her arm where her ribbon once was. Now ensconced on the altar. There's a small mark on the wrist of the hand she's held out to him, proof of her gift.
"I do!" He's probably seen her around, she's been dancing with a variety of people and just generally trying to enjoy the festival as much as possible. Her request is genuine.
"It's okay if you step on my feet or something. I've danced with Zell before. For a martial artist he's great at having two left feet on the dance floor." If he truly doesn't want to dance, she won't push too hard, but if it's just something simple as not knowing how? That can be fixed.
"I'd be more than happy to teach you! I promise, it's a lot less complicated than it looks."
oh no, anything but that
And a brief glance at her wrist indicates it might be worth indulging her for the sake of finding what information she may have already gleaned. Her phrasing and manner have already suggested she's no more from around these parts than he is.
When he offers his hand, the sleeve of his robe slips down enough to reveal he does not have a similar wave mark. At least not yet. In time he will likely place something, if for nothing more than the advantage is gives in gathering information. But that is for a future moment.
"If only for a moment then," Elidibus finally acknowledges as he would allow her to take his hand. "...And I will endeavor not to." Fortunately, he has had ample opportunity to observe the pattern the dance seems to require. As long as Rinoa doesn't pick an entirely different one, he should be able to ease into it with little trouble.
Right? It's very potent. Only to be pulled out in emergencies. u_u
A lack of mark on his wrist isn't worth judgement from her. Maybe he hasn't found the altar. Maybe he doesn't have anything he can give up. Maybe he doesn't want to give something up. There are so many reasons to not have that mark and they're all valid.
Plus, she's far too busy celebrating the fact that he's agreed to dance with her. Her smile widening slightly as her eyes crinkle around the edges.
"Yay! I'll make sure you don't regret it." How she'll keep that promise? No idea. But she'll certainly try. "It's okay if you do. I'm a lot tougher than I look."
She doesn't pick a different dance, instead pulling him into the flow of the dancers around them to ensure that it's easier and they won't stand out too much.
"You're totally not bad at this at all. Are you sure you can't dance?" Because she's not about to just dance in silence, that's not her way.
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If nothing else, it seems he has some pride regarding his potential showing.
Elidibus lets Rinoa lead for the most part. There is not much difference in height; he seems shorter than the average man, though probably still an inch or three on the young lady. But sadly there seems to be no sense of closeness- he seems distant and falls into thought though he's not stiff- or enjoyment in the act of dancing.
It's as though he's politely indulging Rinoa's request.
"I'm not overly familiar with dancing. But I have been observing, and most dances have a pattern which can be followed." Elidibus sounds very matter of fact about it. "Though it seems I've no need to tell you this." It's a nod to her obvious skill.
"Pray indulge me, you are an outside like myself, are you not? One charged with some manner of crime?"
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