test drive # 2

[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 test drive meme #2 It happens in the blink of an eye. One moment, you are home. Perhaps you are with your family, perhaps you are at work. It's a completely normal day . . . and then, suddenly, your stomach drops. You are overcome with a sudden sense of vertigo. You cannot see up, or down, or where you are. All you hear is a voice -- light, bubbly, warm, soothing, in your ear: Don't worry, darling. This won't hurt a bit~ ♥ For those who recognize the voice, it will sound a bit strained. Possibly tired. But the moment happens so quickly it's hard to pin down, and once that moment is over, you fall flat on your face. It's dim, damp, with the trickling of what feels like rain. It takes a few moments for you to gain composure, to catch your breath. You think, for half a moment, that a hand is on your back, rubbing between your shoulder blades in comfort, but when you open your eyes, no one is there. You are surrounded by ancient stone buildings, with carvings you do not recognize etched into the stone. There's a sense of nausea, overwhelming and sudden, when you realize you aren't in Kansas anymore. And, of course, because this is just your luck. It's raining. THE TEMPLE OF BEGINNINGS. Welcome to the "Home Base" of Astoria's Circle. What the actual name of the base is called is lost to the ages, and there's no sense of where you could find it, unless you started asking around. At any rate, this is a central hub of the Circle, a place of powerful magic and mysterious energy. It is a scattering of ancient stone buildings and for the most part, it looks abandoned . . . except for what seems to be a few items, some rooms taken, items moved or organized, even a small garden planted. These are just the smallest hints that there are people here that have been here before you arrived. For some, this place is home. For others, this strange land is new and dark, like a haze has settled in the air. The creatures in the forest seem to be stirring, and every now and then the sky will open up, and a storm will pass through, in varying degrees of intensity. Some will be easy spring showers, others will be angry, thunderous storms. Not exactly the most welcoming place, but it's a start. Overall, it's fairly beautiful. However, it is definitely not modern. Upon exploration, you find that the buildings are kept up by some kind of magic. Some of the rooms have items, things from other Circle members already settled, and others appear to be unclaimed. Pick your rooms, explore the grounds, see the beauty and wonder all around you in such a magical place. The rain makes everything feel a bit softer, but also eerie, like there is a secret being kept just on the outside of your vision. Of course, this means you have free reign. This place seems easy enough to figure out on your own, with enough time to take a walk around! However- members who recognize this place may notice the lack of a certain figure, the grounds feeling a bit more empty, more abandoned, than they did before. IT'S A FIELD OF . . . POPPIES? The buildings of the Temple of Beginnings span out across a fair-sized field, intermixed with trees, open grassy planes, outside sitting areas, fire rings, and other oddly ancient but somehow structures. With the mist and the rain, everything feels a bit more ethereal, like there is life to every inch of what you see before you. Or like you've stumbled into some kind of alternate world. Around the temple is a ring of stones that do not seem to move no matter what characters may attempt, and beyond that is the forest. The forest itself is more than just impressive - it is near-overwhelming. An impossibly ancient stretch of woods that crackle with magical energy. Within, there is all matter of fauna and flora, darting from tree trunk to tree trunk. The canopy is thick enough to shield from the worst of the rain, but still the water gets through, dripping down through the leaves and dampening the ground under your feet. While there is always a sense of wonder - and possible danger - in every stretch of this forest, nothing will come any closer than a brief glimpse out of the corner of your eyes. No matter how you try, you can't quite seem to catch a full glimpse of what is moving about. Some of the creatures seem small, flittering through the air, while others dart through the trees, larger, more imposing. Everything here seems to be looking for some kind of shelter, so be wary of stumbling across something already taken. There is a particular clearing not too far into the woods that opens up, a field encircled by trees. In the middle of the field there is an odd glow - luminescent even in the darkened sky. Upon investigation, you will find a bush - about the size of a small car - filled with glowing flowers, white, blue, gold, and purple. They all smell faintly sweet, but it's hard to tell with the scent of earth and rain all around you. if you decide to pick one of these flowers, there will be no immediate recourse. However, the longer you decide to keep the flower on your person - or if, for whatever reason, you decide to eat said flower - the following will start to set in. White: For whatever reason, you will have more energy than you know what to do with, and will be filled with the urge to shine. Ever needed a confidence booster? To a point that you need to get up on buildings and belt your favorite song at the top of your lungs? Well, now you do. Blue: After some time of carrying around this flower, you will start to feel at peace. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, is it? Until that feeling of peace continues to grow, and continues, and continues. Soon you will feel so peaceful, it's almost as if nothing matters at all. I mean...it'll work out in the end, won't it? You're no longer missing home, missing people, worried about what happened and what you might fine. Everything is chill. Beyond chill. The most chill. But maybe out in the middle of the forest isn't the best place for a nap? Gold: Congrats, you've officially become a hoarder! No, seriously, you will have this uncontrollable urge to grab things and collect them. It doesn't matter what they are, or where they are. You need to have them and you will find a way to make it happen. Hats? Rings? People with green hair? The world is your oyster, and that's the key word here - yours. Purple: Suddenly, and without warning, you find yourself unable to...well. Go on alone, really. The first person you see, or that you come in contact with, will feel much like the savior of your world, and for the next five hours or so, you will be unable to be far from them. Even if you know the fear is irrational, you can't really help it, following friend or stranger alike, always needing to be just in arms reach. Regarding further exploration of the wood, it will seem to go on forever. Getting lost seems almost imperative to existence within this forest, going on forever in all directions with no edge in sight. You could walk for days, weeks, possibly even more. However, the second that you find yourself thinking about wanting to return to the buildings from before, you find yourself cresting through the edge of the trees, back to your home. RUN BY THE RIVER While inside the buildings and in the main open spaces, the water doesn't seem to be building up all too terribly, un an unfortunate turn of events, it all seems to be rolling down a very slight hill, pulling just on the outside of the ring of stones. The ground here is unstable, wet and muddy from the amount of moisture falling from the skies. So much that in some areas (the fighting area being one), it will start to collect into a dangerous combination of mud and moving water. It's possible to get stuck in it, possible to get lost in the flooding, but it's also possible to...you know. Have some fun? Mud slides, mud wrestling, mud...castles? Whatever you want it to be, it's at your disposal! While the arena was originally a place to practice your powers, or any of the various weapons that are usually kept here, now you can do the same with a little added obstacle in your path. That, or it's possible you simply got stuck trying to make it back to your room. Hopefully someone will be by to help you! CONNECTIONS AND COMMENTARY Upon arriving, you will notice on whichever is your non-dominant hand, you will have a fairly simply screen. A smart watch, if you will. Upon exploration, you will find that it has a directory of all those here with you at the Temple of Beginnings- names, and access to a direct message to them. The watch also has video, audio, and text capabilities, as well as what looks like a collection of messages sent to everyone who wishes to open them. This is your 'network', and also how Astoria can reach out and communicate with you. There is nothing keeping you from removing and/or losing your watch! But remember that you will not have access to this network without it. OOC: Also feel free to join us and other possible players on our discord server! enjoy! ♥

Comments

aya maruyama | bang dream!

[shuwarin]

temple.

[ needless to say, this "magic" business is very foreign to Aya. sure, idols have a certain charm to them that might feel pretty magical in the midst of a concert, but that wasn't literal! being taken on an emotional journey through music and lyrics didn't literally mean being swept away to parts unknown!

she had teared up a bit upon her lonely arrival from being so overwhelmed by new surroundings and information, but has since put on a brave face. she can't quite hide that she's still flustered, but that will come with baby steps. for now, she has to look for any familiar faces and do a bit of exploring. the living quarters seem like a good place to start, especially if they come with a warm bed for her own use - you might hear a shy knock on your door if it's ajar, followed by an equally hesitant inquiry from a pink-haired teenager. ]

Um... Sorry for intruding! [ she fidgets a bit, but tries to keep her posture straight. ] Is this room occupied?


poppy white.

[ the white poppies in the flower bushes had captured Aya's attention, along with bringing a soft feeling of nostalgia. it feels only natural to pick one, at least to give her some courage to press forward and learn more about her new surroundings. to her surprise, the flower does just that - after tucking it behind her ear, she begins to feel a positive energy swell from her chest. it's the same sort of rush that she gets when she's onstage with Pastel*Palettes, and it becomes almost impossible for her to keep held in. with a deep breath, she begins to sing. ]

The sun always shines down on me
Even if it has set
Always like a bud
My unsteady tears have stopped coming out...

[ it's a song that she feels like embeds her feelings about her situation, so she continues on as she walks. ]

If my true feelings are opened up
My eagerness will rush out!
It's a burning hot new beginning, isn't it? ♪

[ to an onlooker, she might look a bit strange as she performs for an audience of nobody, but she can't help it! she needs to let her energy out somehow, and if she closes her eyes, it almost feels like home. ]


why-fi.

[ though Aya is more familiar with her phone as her main piece of technology, she's not about to object to a smartwatch. it seems like the most familiar thing to her so far, even if it's probably also run on magic. she decides to give the video feature a try, giving her cutest, most congenial idol smile. ]

Mm... I guess this watch doesn't have any social media apps, right? It might be hard to get a good selfie angle, too. [ she giggles. ] But I'm glad that we have a little bit of technology to keep us all connected!

[ it's something to rely on, anyway. ]


wildcard.

[ throw me something totally different! my plurk is bounsweet if you wanna run anything by. ]

temple.

[dawninglight]

[In an attempt to get out of the on-and-off rain, Yona had taken to snooping around the temple herself, particularly looking for towels to dry herself off with. The search for towels was...not a success, and there's a guilty puddle of water trailing into the room to prove it. She is nothing if not stubborn, though, and even in this room she can be found poking her head into cupboards--although at the knock, she straightens up to see who it might be. Obviously not the person who owns the place, or they wouldn't be knocking.]

It's alright! This isn't my room, I was just taking a look around. Trying to, uh, well, clean up. I'm sorry I made a mess.

[shuwarin]

[ the rain is a large reason that Aya is seeking a room - she thankfully managed to avoid getting drenched, but would prefer to have the comfort of a bed to curl into. she hopes it won't be long-term, but has to work with what's in front of her for the time being.

the trail of water is curious, and what's led her to this room. a part of her is glad that someone is there, but it's still a stranger... ]

T-That's okay! It doesn't look like anyone is using it right now, anyway... [ she's actually unsure of that, but it's the best way she can rationalize things right now. she's not a snoop! :( ] I can help you clean, if you'd like? It might be easier with two people.

[dawninglight]

I'd honestly feel terrible having you help me clean up my mess.

[she already feels bad for making this poor girl feel obligated to clean it up...]

But...if you were planning on using this room, then it would benefit both of us to get it cleaned up. As long as you're not busy, that is!

[shuwarin]

I don't mind, I promise. Even if I don't end up staying in this room, I want to make myself useful while I'm here.

[ doing so might help her get used to her surroundings, along with the people in them. she does't want to be a stranger! ]

My name is Aya. It's nice to meet you!

why-fi. (i love aya.....so much......)

[juniberries]

[Humans have such the oddest expressions. and while, considering some of the people she's been around with for quite a long time, she should know most turn-of-phrases, curiosity does get the best of her.]

What...is a selfie?

I'M GLAD!!! allura is a sweetie too

[shuwarin]

[ that's a very philosophical question, m'am. ]

It's when you use a camera to take a picture of yourself. You can turn the lens on yourself or use a mirror... But selfie sticks are pretty popular these days, too. [ nevermind that Allura probably doesn't know what that means! she's ranting now. ] Posting a selfie online can be pretty nerve-wracking, but it feels good when you get it right!

[juniberries]

[She is...so lost among this girl's ramblings. But she's just so enthusiastic that Allura isn't about to try to stop her.

But Allura kind of understands. She thinks she's seen Lance and Hunk take similar pictures in the past. She also somewhat understands what 'online' means because there are similar databases in space.]

They sound incredibly important.

[That's all she can manage.]

temple

[spellweave]

[The events of their first world jump had been taxing for him both physically and mentally. He was looking forward to the rest and so being back in his room at the temple was more than welcomed.

The door is slightly ajar as the sound of rain was soothing and helped him relax.

Then it is interrupted by an unfamiliar voice and he looks up from where he's seated on his bed. He stands and crosses the room to open it further, greeting the girl with a slight smile.]

I'm afraid so but you are more than welcome to enter if you seek shelter from the rain. [He steps aside, opening the door more to invite her inside.]

[shuwarin]

If it's really okay... I-I'd appreciate it!

[ this guy... has really big ears. Aya is finding it really hard not to stare - he was kind enough to let her in, but still! they're just... there. he looks pretty normal otherwise, but who on earth has ears like that?!

she wills herself to look him in the eye, but quickly bows her head gratitude. ]

My name is Aya. Aya Maruyama! [ she doesn't want to intrude without introducing herself to her host, but isn't sure what else to say otherwise. ] I'm... um... new here?

[ nailed it. ]

[spellweave]

[If it makes her feel any better... he's use to it. The people of El Minha had also been pretty startled by his appearance and he had earned many, many stares. The Circle members were a bit less rude about it but often no less surprised. In Aya's case he hardly notices as he ushers her in and closes the door again, still leaving it slightly ajar.]

It's a pleasure, Aya. I am Alphinaud Leveilleur, at your service. [Good luck pronouncing his name which is also a struggle for most people.] As someone newly arrived I'm sure you must have a plethora of questions. I can do my best to answer them if you'd like.

[There are two beds here separated by a screen but he motions towards the one that is his.] Have a seat if it pleases you. I'll find something you can dry off with. [Time to fetch a towel for this poor girl.]

temple

[reeliable]

[The knock wasn't so much of a surprise as an unfamiliar, seemingly stressed expression - she's new. Noct can't say he's seen new people with their group since everyone else arrived, and it didn't seem like anyone else would be coming. Giving a reassuring smile even as he nods, Noct opens the door a bit further and moves to come out.]

Uh - yeah, it is sort of full, but if you need help finding an empty one... do you want someone to walk with?

[If there are new people milling around the Temple, maybe being out and about will be better, for familiar faces to find him.]

[shuwarin]

Eheh... sorry about that. I'm not really sure where to start looking, to be totally honest.

[ she's sure that her uncertainty is completely readable on her expression, but she isn't making any sort of attempt to hide it. she'll take any help that she can get, even if it means putting her faith in a stranger. ]

That's really nice of you to offer! I don't want to bother you, though...

poppies!!! idol solidarity

[ayatori]

[ there's a foolish boy wandering around the forest in the kind of costume that could really and truly only belong to an idol of some kind. any of the actual idol-ness of said costume is pretty ruined by the fact that he's soaking wet, but that doesn't matter right now.

what matters is the sound of someone singing. it surprises mika, and he's left staring when aya starts to walk by, leaning on a tree and listening to every note. in fact... he ends up following her, trailing after her while she's singing. whoa...

he's not a creep but that's probably kind of creepy, mika? and yet, he's doing it anyway. ]

hella!!!

[shuwarin]

[ she's about halfway through the second verse when she turns and sees Mika, at which one of her notes quickly changes into a suprised screech as she jumps back a few feet. considering the magical world that they're in, her mind doesn't immediately jump to "idol", but "vampire that's about to suck my body dry of blood". her imagination has become a bit overactive, but she just doesn't know what to expect! ]

Who... Who are you?!

[ayatori]

[ when aya shrieks, mika also shrieks, leaping backwards the other direction and putting his hands over his ears. ]

Nnhaaaaa!! Sorry!! [ oh no he messed this up so bad. what does he say to fix this. ] 's loud--I was just listenin', 'm sorry!!

[ ...that works, i guess ]

why-fi!!

[purrtagonist]

And do you want to know the best part?

[hi5, fellow technologically starved individual. there's something comforting about having a piece of home (sort of. . .) strapped to your wrist, isn't there?]

Unlimited battery life.

[shuwarin]

No way! For real?

[ this world is just full of surprises! this thing is either really hi-tech, or runs on another kind of magic. from what she's seen so far, Aya's money is on option 2. ]

That makes sense, I guess. I haven't seen any outlets or chargers around. [ or any electricity, for that matter. ] It kind of feels like we've gone back in time...

[purrtagonist]

To the period of history where batteryless watches existed?

[Akira. . . but the faint note of amusement in his words makes it clear he's joking]

Kidding. I guess you could say that. It's less "back in time" and more "moved to a different world," though.

why-fiiii

[punshots]

[ Finally, someone who speaks his language...or, at the very least, won't give him a weird look when he asks for a selfie. At least he's still got his camera. He can't imagine why it must be like for someone with no selfie options to fall back on. What is she supposed to do? Not take selfies??

Perish the thought. ]

Been meaning to ask Astoria if we can get some sweet apps on these things, buuut I haven't had a chance to, yet. [ Since she's...kind of MIA right now, anyway. ] In the meantime, we'll just have to settle for sending videos of ourselves!

[ Which, come to think of it, is almost a step above selfie. ]

[shuwarin]

It would be great if we could! I bet playing mobile games together could be really fun, along with all of the other cool things that smart watches do. Do you think Astoria-san could really do that?

[ her knowledge on this "witch" is minimal, but if someone can do magic, that must mean that they can do anything! probably! ]

I haven't done any video recordings or live streams in a while... I guess I'll have to get used to them again.

[punshots]

Bet she could! She's pretty talented like that...and she's really nice! She's perfect.

[ But anyway. ]

Maybe you could start out by reviewing some of the food in the kitchen. Gain a following! Next thing you know, you're selling t-shirts and signing autographs.

poppy white;

[complementing]

[Sound has always been one of Minako's strongest senses, and music one of her greatest passions, so of course she can't help but be drawn to the singing she hears in the distance while exploring this strange place. She steps quietly towards the noise, cautious despite her curiosity.

The sugar sweet, idol pop sound of it reminds her of home, and she misses home with an intensity that she doesn't want to think about right now. So she just...listens. Soaks it all in, quickly learning the tune, and when the chorus comes around again, she raises her voice to join in. It's nothing more than "aah ahh la la"s, but she has a strong and pleasant voice that lends itself well to harmony.

If she closes her eyes, it's like she's back in Iwatodai, singing karaoke with her friends.]

[shuwarin]

[ for a while, Aya is in her own little world. just as it does with Minako, signing is something familiar that makes her feel like she's back at home. when she closes her eyes, she can see Hina to her left and Chisato to her right, and practically feel Eve and Maya backing her up behind her. it's reassuring, even if it's just her imagination.

she only notices that there's another voice besides her own when she takes a breath to sing the last line of the chorus. it prompts her to stop, eyes darting around to try and see who her mysterious duet partner is. ]

Is... Is someone there?

[complementing]

Oh! Yes, I'm here.

[Minako takes the last few steps forward to reveal herself, offering a bright and friendly smile. She doesn't want to alarm the other girl into running away, after all.

Because really, who knows what she might be running towards, in a strange and possibly dangerous place like this.]

Sorry if I scared you! I really liked your singing and couldn't stop myself from joining in.