Test Drive: April 2020

[storyevents]

Test Drive: April 2020—

§ instructions.

Welcome to the Test Drive for Forgotten Tales! This is to help interested players test out their characters in the game's setting and see if the essence they have chosen will actually work in game play. There are a number of prompts that try to touch on the kinds of settings and scenarios the characters may encounter. So here are a few things to keep in mind while on the test drive:

• Feel free to use the current Workshop for help if you need it! Both the Workshop and the Test Drive are required for Registration.
  
  
• Participating on the Test Drive does not guarantee a spot on either Claims or Registration.
  
  
• Check the Character Roster and Essence List to see if your choices are not already taken.
  
  
• Include Character Name and Canon in the subject line, and note somewhere within the toplevel your character's essence. It can be in the subject line if you already know what it is (so ex; Character | Canon | Essence). Side note: You are free to try more than one essence if you're on the fence. Just make sure to note which one you're using for that particular prompt.
  
  
• Players are free to assume their characters have been informed of the very basics so you can skip all that if you'd like.
  
  
• Only the "In the Index" prompts of the Test Drive can be carried over in its entirety, but you can alter the story based ones as "stage play" settings within the Index if you wish to carry over that interaction as well, or alter components to a slightly different scenario (ex, instead of fighting Erasers in a story setting, it could in the Index or different monsters within the Index)..
  
  
• Don't forget to refer to the Game Info for how the mechanics work.
  
  
• Public Registration will open May 3rd, but anyone with an invite and current players can register at any time. Claims will open April 26th.

Most of all, have fun! Feel free to invite those you may think would be interested to participate in the test drive.

---

§ prompts.

¶ I. In the Index. When not out adventuring or playing character roles in stories, the Aspects will have some downtime within the Index, the central hub of the Realm of Stories. Here they can explore the city, read up on other stories, socialize with fellow would-be heroes, learn more about the essence, or even just do nothing at all. Any threads and CR made with "Index" prompts can be carried over into the game.

• A. Out in the City. Life in the Index can range from the mundane to the extraordinary depending on which area one travels to. Because it is a hodgepodge of many different stories from numerous cultures, one can never be sure what they may encounter even on an average run for groceries.
  
  
  
  1. Spring Has Sprung! It's spring in the Index, which means the city is decked out for more holidays! Sakura and other flowering trees scatter petals into the gentle breeze, streamers and banners in bright pastels hang from the lampposts and in shop windows, and best of all, specials on candy! However, some of this decoration magic is spreading all over. Some may suddenly find themselves with flower petals raining down upon them as if to give them a more "refreshing, romantic" effect, though sometimes instead of a gentle shower it's more like a raging storm (hopefully none of them are thorny roses). Buildings are suddenly made of chocolate or dyed random colors that glitter and sparkle in the sun, blinding those who walk past. Hopefully that chocolate doesn't melt. And some will find themselves sporting rabbit ears. They're "real" for about an hour before they turn into fake headbands, but fake or real, the ears can twitch and move.
     
     
  2. Rabbits Can Multiply. Some people might stumble across a chocolate egg. It might be in your winnings if you participated in the egg hunt, on your kitchen counter, placed really obviously on the bench next to you after feeling someone tap your shoulder. In any case, the egg soon hatches into an adorable little chocolate bunny—that quickly starts to eat everything in sight and multiplies like, well, a proverbial rabbit. One rabbit chowing down someone's garden or restaurant inventory is easy to handle, but not five or more. The little menaces seem to distinctly avoid carrots, though. Maybe whacking them on the head with one or spraying them with carrot juice will get rid of them. You can use heat to melt them, but would you really want to scar the children like that?
     
     
  3. Magic Jumping Jelly Beans. Special jelly beans are being handed out to everyone, children in particular. They come in all different flavors and colors and are quite tasty. The only problem is catching them all. When not contained in special, magical plastic eggs, the jelly beans will jump out and bounce around here and there and everywhere without any care. A handful is amusing, but when an entire box or cart full of them is accidentally knocked over and entire rooms or streets are filled with them...it's a problem. Traffic is blocked, eyes are at risk, and those little things can hurt when flying at high speeds. Whether it's grabbing and shoving them back into the eggs, smashing or burning them, or simply eating them, find a way to beat back the beans before they cause serious bodily harm or property damage.
  
  
• B. Essence Practice. Suddenly inheriting the abilities of another person while losing most of your own at the same time can be quite jarring. Picking a place to test out these newfound powers or even going to the Library to read up on the essence's story may help glean some clues as to what they can do.
  
  
• C. Try Out the Journal. The journals are unique to this world and the sole source of communication for everyone. Feel free to give it a try, either by sending a random message out or even a doodle.

¶ II. Jack and the Beanstalk. The classic tale of a young boy who climbs up the magic beanstalk to discover the giant's castle. Aspects are requested to help restore this story and are given a few tasks to fulfill. First they must scale up the current, contaminated beanstalk to help clear out the Erasers and other monsters lurking. Then a few select souls must reenact key scenes so that the Storyteller can rewrite the story. Finally they must help chop down the beanstalk so that a newer one can be grown.

• A. Up the Beanstalk. The beanstalk is a twisting rotting mess that leads up to dark, stormy clouds. But it is up this beanstalk they must climb and try to not only create a safer passage for those involved, but to keep it from falling down prematurely as it is the only way up to the giant's castle in the sky. There are several large leaves that look as if they could be safe platforms, but be wary—some are actually venus flytraps in disguise and will snap close if triggered. There are also numerous Erasers and hostile creatures in the form of varying insects. A few beans and pea pods hang off its sides and they can be used as 1) nourishment and remedies, 2) thrown to create safe platforms, 3) sticky explosives against hostile creatures.
  
  
• B. Dealing with Giants. There are two many scenes to pick from. For each, characters will take on one of the two roles, but it's only in name and appearance only. How they act is all up to them. There is no script, just a basic guideline on the setup and potential goal, but how it happens and how they get there doesn't matter. They can be serious in their role or just go completely off script. Each one has a costume: Jack, (Princess) Harp, and the Giant. (Note: characters do retain their Aspect abilities as well as temporarily gain some from their scene roles.):
  
  
  1. Jack and (Princess) Harp: Sneaking Past the Giant. It's a stealth co-op mission to get through an extreme obstacle course without waking the Blot giant. Think Ninja Warrior obstacles and traps. (Princess) Harp is transformed into an actual harp with their head and arms the only movable original part of the person. Fortunately they are small enough to be carried, but be careful to not let any of the string snap! Don't wake the giant or they will get Fee Fi Fo Stomped.
     
     
  2. Jack and the Giant: Confrontation. Despite their best efforts, the giant is able to catch up to Jack and impede his escape. Jack must now find a way to get past the giant, and it's up to the one who plays the giant to determine the method. Will the giant be talked into letting Jack go peacefully? Perhaps if Jack traded the harp? Solve a few riddles? Jack uses his wiles to somehow distract and sneak past? Will it come to a fight? Or perhaps another method? (Note: Jack will have a toy harp as a prop.)
  
  
• C. Chop the Beanstalk. Once everyone is down safely, it's time to chop this giant beanstalk before more threats come down. It's very thick, not to mention riddled with obstacles like peashooter-pods, pome-grenades filled with alarmingly red sticky juice, spiky, stinky durian bombs, and worst of all, the SQUASH! Some chainsaws are provided, but there are other ways to help weaken it via Essence abilities. Those who have affinity with plants can perhaps coax it to soften itself. Others could try cursing it to wilt, and there are of course the elements to use against it (fire is most effective). Watch out for the various critters that will drop down in attempt to defend it, as well as the beanstalk's other defenses.

¶ III. Request Board: Creature Handling. People aren't the only ones displaced due to the Story Eater's destruction. A variety of creatures from various fairy tales and stories have sought shelter within the Index, and have for the most part been contained away from the main city. However, not all creatures are friendly, and some do escape, whether on their own or by those with ill intentions. While it is preferred to keep every creature safe and alive, the safety of not only the people but also other creatures and the Index itself is paramount. Lethal force should only be used when absolutely necessary. Although some requests specify certain types of individuals best suited for the task, anyone with comparable skills or alternative methods can participate. With everyone needing to learn how to use their new Essence abilities, these offer a perfect opportunity to test them out.

1. REQUEST: TRACKERS, HUNTERS, ANYONE WHO CAN COMMUNE OR UNDERSTAND THE FORESTS. A herd of unicorns is missing and must be found immediately! Poachers are known to trap and cut their horns to be sold on the black market as well as smuggling them to other stories to be sold. This is highly illegal and harmful for the creature. Please find and return them before they are harmed! If you spot a poacher, you have permission to capture them and take them to law enforcement.
   
   
2. REQUEST: WARRIORS, MAGES, BEAST TAMERS, TRACKERS. A large cerberus was spotted roaming near some ranches set by the mountains. Normally they keep to themselves, but this one is a young male likely looking for new territory to claim and drawn to the livestock. No humans have been harmed, but we want to keep it that way. Partners and groups must have at least one person capable of tracking it down. We wish to drive away the cerberus rather than outright kill it, but it can be unpredictable. If it cannot be driven off or knocked unconscious, then permission is granted for its destruction. Be wary of its three heads—it is capable of harnessing the three main elements: fire, water, and wind.
   
   
3. REQUEST: BARDS, MUSICIANS, CHARMERS. Because of the recent incidents, many of the more timid creatures and farm animals are nervous and won't settle down. Many have wedged themselves in odd hiding places and just won't come out, while others ceaselessly stampede through the spring fields and trample the crops! Music will help calm them down, especially duets, and they are also fans of musical numbers. However if music isn't enough, perhaps a sleeping spell of some kind will do.

¶ IV. Mix it up. This is the "wildcard" prompt. Feel free to take any of these prompts and make them more of your own, or pull from an entirely different story. As mentioned you're free to use any of our previous stories or other events. Just have fun with it!

Comments

Wilt | Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends | The Nutcracker

[sorry_isthatokay]

A. Rabbits

No no no! I'm sorry, I'm sorry, sorry sorry sorry...!

[ The frantic apologies come from the lanky creature running around, trying to maneuver around people while frantically trying to chase after the hoard of chocolate rabbits. Though he manages to catch one or two at a time, there are still a good number of them, especially as they eat whatever they can get their paws on and start multiplying.

As he runs passed, he manages to scoop up one rabbit just as two more appear, eating up the flowers from a flower shop. ]

Oh no! That is definitely not okay! I'm sorry, but you all need to stop!

B. Essence Practice

[ He discovered his ability to control toys on accident, when some dolls started moving one day when he was walking by a toy store. He had bought one of the dolls to try it out, and if one were to happen to see Wilt (which, given his height, was not difficult to do), they might also see the doll dancing around him.

It was only for a brief moment, though, before the doll collapses to the ground, lifeless. Wilt frowns, bending down to pick it up. ]

Sorry, sorry...I think I'm almost there though. Is it okay to give it one more try?

C. Jack and the Giant: Confrontation

[ Well...given his height, he supposes it would only be natural for him to play the giant. And as much as he didn't like the idea of playing the giant, he doesn't want to let people down either. ]

Sorry, um...I'm pretty sure you have something that doesn't belong to you.

[ Such a scary giant. ]

D. Wildcard

((Feel like doing something else? Feel free!))

A

[gobetween]

[The rabbits were swarming all over a garden-y area, eating absolutely everything in sight. One paused and considered what looked like a GIANT thistle sticking up out of the plants. Paws moved and it pounced, chomped-]

YEOW!!

[-and the creature the "thistle" was attached to jerked up in pain. Looking around, he glared at the rabbit on the end of his tail and swiftly bopped it with one of the cucumbers he was holding.]

Hey! Let go, will ya?? I'm not something to eat!

Robert Small | Dream Daddy | Big Bad Wolf from 3 Little Pigs

[whiskeydad]

[Workshop Post]

{Spring Has Sprung!}
He strolled around this new story book world, or whatever it was, looking at his surroundings. Looking for a bar, mostly. What else do you do when whisked away to help story book things do what they are suppose to? Drink the hallucination away.

That's what this had to be, right? A hallucination? The fall of petals from trees felt real, but was that building made of chocolate? It was all strange and bothersome. Not at all what he was used to in Maple Bay. This seemed... wrong on more levels than he could admit.

Worst yet, after one particular strong gust of wind and cherry blossoms he found something atop his head. He reached up to yank on it, but "Ooow!" Shit that hurt. Ears? Rabbit ears? Well that was new. "Great..." He hummed to himself, pulling at the ears again and looking at them from over to top of his head. "That's the last thing I needed."

You might find him tugging at the ears, or you might find him looking frumpy, ears hanging down over the back of his head, feeling scruffy and annoyed. "I got to get a damn drink..."


{Essence Practice}
His breath was cold, though he didn't feel cold at all. Just that once in a while it felt like he had a rather strong mint in his mouth, or that he was warm on a cold day. It was hard to explain.

Part of his powers, he suspected.

He felt shaggier then normal, with long pointed ears and his hair felt longer. His sideburns bigger. His beard grew faster. He had to keep it trim. He felt itchy in his skin, like he needed to do something. Needed to change. Needed some air.

Out away from the city, near the woods, Robert stood, practicing his essence, feeling it out. Not the shape shifting part but the north wind like ability. He stood there breathing in and out, feeling the cold breath on his hands. He was suppose to be the Big Bad Wolf of the three little pigs. He could huff and buff, but why was it cold?

He took a breath and let it out slowly, then another, sucking back air only to let out a strong force of breath that whipped through the trees. There was a guest of cold air shooting past trees, leaving a frost covering leaves as it went. Any person near by might get a cold breeze shoot past them, chilly like a winter night.

Practice

[steadypulse]

"Watch your aim!"

The voice was gruff and... well, irritated was mild but it wasn't really anything stronger than that. Hell, didn't get the brunt of the col wind with how quickly he'd managed himself in a tree just near the line, a set of claws dug deep past the bark and in to the wood itself, hooves planted firmly on that limb.

Maybe the much more clear sign of irritation was the almost pale-white yet still noticeably striped tail lashing a bit behind him. Rather long and furry ears pinned back and all that visible pale fur ruffled up more.

"Some live out in the area here." And not just because he'd almost gotten hit at least?

Barley Lightfoot | Onward | Beowulf

[gwniver]

1-C: A Grand Introduction.
[ Today you're getting a message from a Barley Lightfoot, who apparently got the essence of Beowulf and is writing in really... Pointy... Letters. ]

GREETINGS, FELLOW ASPECTS!

LIKE MANY OF YOU, I HAVE BEEN CALLED UPON TO HELP RESTORE THE STORIES OF THIS WORLD TO SAVE OUR OWN. WHILE I HUMBLY ACCEPT THIS NOBLE QUEST, I MUST WARN THEE THAT I COME FROM A WORLD WHERE MAGIC IS ALL BUT FORGOTTEN. WHILE I HAVE STUDIED THE QUESTS OF YORE FOR MANY YEARS, I CANNOT GUARANTEE ANY MASTERY OF FORGOTTEN CRAFT, SO PLEASE BEAR WITH ME WHILE I SETTLE IN.

NOW, IS THERE ANYTHING I MUST BE AWARE OF BEFORE WE HEAD INTO OUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

[ ... Yes, someone please tell this guy he doesn't have to write like he's from a Shakespearean ripoff? ]

1-A: Spring has surely sprung.
[ Okay, maybe the magic is kind of a nuisance... But this guy is staring in awe as a building suddenly shifts from being a normal wood and brick house to a glittery chocolate fortress. ]

Woah... [ He can't help but walk up to one of the houses and swipe his finger against the wall to taste it. ]

... Woah! It's real chocolate! [ As he marvels at the building's transformation, a clap of thunder catches him off guard. Before he knows it, he's staring up at the flurry of flower petals raining from the sky... ]

This is SO AWESOME!

[ He runs through the pouring petal rain with his arms outstretched, laughing like a kid in a candy store. This place is truly full of magic... More magic than he's personally seen in his life! Sure, there might be a problem in a few minutes but he's enjoying himself right now. ]

3: Door number one or door number two.
[ Barley eventually calms down enough to focus. He is on a quest, after all!

... Or, well. He will be on a quest, but it hasn't quite started yet. Ah well. A true adventurer knows there's no harm in taking a sidequest during slow days, which is what brings him to the request board this morning. ]

Hm... [ He leans in, scratching his chin. ] I know more about unicorns than ceberus... Ceberuses?

[ Well, he has read about the ceberus in his copy of Quests of Yore, but he has also seen plenty of unicorns in real life... Eating from people's garbage... And being gross. Yeah, he's pretty sure they used to be majestic creatures, but the mental image of someone wanting to saw off the horn of a pest animal is a bit weird...

At this point he notices the presence of a fellow aspect. Whoops! He clears his throat like he wasn't just noticing them. ] Fellow aspect! You come at a most opportune moment... [ Eh, screw it, he's dropping the roleplay speak. ] You think I should go for the warrior quest or the one where we look for unicorns?

WILDCARD!
((Do what you wanna do!))

3

[turbodew]

[ So Dewey's not all that thrown off by the blue guy checking out the animal adventures. Though he's pretty tall. ]

Warrior quest, of course! Unicorns are cool and all but I want to fight monsters! Or see if I can get it to be my new pet.

Dewey Duck | Ducktales 2017 | Peter Pan

[turbodew]

I. In the Index

[ This is a really horrible idea. Sure ducks flying may not be unusual to most people but it's certainly a mistake to let this duck fly. Dewey is taking his new powers GREAT!

Unfortunately for everyone else that means he's a menace. To practice his newfound power of flight, Dewey is flying through town about five feet off the ground. Not the best place to practice when there are so many obstacles to dodge - including people. ]

Excuse me! Coming through! Watch out! [ He's constantly knocking into people on the streets on his first test flight. Poor natives and others who have been brought here.

After bumping into the last one, it seems his course is now putting him on a direct crash course with another person. ]

Duck! [ Small duck incoming! ]

II. Jumping Jellies!

[ Candy! Dewey is all about shoving some sugar in his face. Except when he goes to open his magic egg they all bounce out. ]

Woah! Five-second rule still applies! If I catch them fast, I can still eat them.

[ He lunges for the first one only to land flat on his face after having missed completely. ]

I meant to do that...

[ The duck picks himself up rather quickly and tries again - successful in grabbing one. ]

Gotcha! [ Except it jumps right out of his closed hand. ] Aw phooey...

III. Fee-fi-fo-fum

[ He feels so TALL! Normally, Dewey is one of the shortest members in any team - the same height as his brothers and Webby but shorter than the rest of the family. It's not a creepy sort of tall either (thanks Huey for the long-legged nightmare). Of course, being taller is going to his head just a little bit. ]

That's right, who's the giant? Dewey's the giant! [ A dramatic pause and he holds a hand to the side of his head as if listening to something. ] You need something off the top shelf?

I can "Dew" it! [ He's completely forgotten that he's supposed to be challenging "Jack" right now. ]

IV. Every kid needs a three-headed dog

[ While Dewey could have broken out the pan flute he has to go pacify the farm animals, he's far more interested in the call for warriors. Especially when it involves a dog with three heads. So here he is, intent on tracking it down. ]

Do you think I'll get to name each head? It'll be a great guard dog for my island! Chasing all the intruders away. I want it to be big enough for me to ride it. Gotta come up with some awesome names like Phantom, Magma, and Cobra.

[ He's way too excited and probably not helping whoever is supposed to be tracking this dog. In fact, Dewey will give their position away if they aren't careful. ]

|

[lifesa_witch]

[Not today, Satan. Magica sees him comping, yelps, and POOFS into a smaller animal - a hedgehog - until he passes. Once he's passed, and presumably crashed, does she POOF back into her normal form.]

Watch where you're going, brat!

Louie Duck | DuckTales 2017 | Robin Hood

[talkyourwayout]

A. Essence Practice
[Louie's more used to being on the receiving end of arrows, honestly. Not, like, terribly used to it! But more than he'd like to be. Still, he's in town with his bow and quiver, aiming an arrow at one of those ridiculously pink cherry blossom trees. He's never fired one of these off before, and yet instinct seems to be guiding him as he shoots of the arrow and it does, indeed, hit the tree.]

...Wait, so I just get to know stuff without having to work at learning it?

[Self-protection without effort? Maybe this place isn't so bad.]

B. Bards, Musicians, Charmers
[Look, Louie's not stupid; he's not expecting the critters to come out with a little smooth-talk - although they are magical, some of them, so who knows? But no, Louie simply picked the least dangerous-seeming request to fulfill. He doesn't have magic yet, and he doesn't generally like to sing, so he's got a lute and he's crouched down near a bush a rooster has named its hiding place.

He strums the strings, and definitely looks surprised - and frustrated - when it does not sound at all good.]

Oh come on, this shouldn't be hard!

[He sighs, resigned, after more sour notes do nothing to calm the skittish rooster. Then, he glances around - no one else is around, right? - and starts to sing. While the quality of sound may not be a marked improvement once he gets to those higher notes, there's sincerity now... And it does seem to be working to calm the bird.]

C. Wildcard
[If you're feeling like something else, go for it!]

A

[lifesa_witch]

[But after he hits the next tree, something in the leaves yelps and barks out-]

Hey! Knock that off!

[As a talking raven walks out onto a branch.]

Reaper | Overwatch | La Lechuza

[no_reload]

Rabbit Stew

It was ridiculously Spring. Everyone running around like it was something to celebrate, and it was all sparkly and joyous. It wasn't a surprise when suddenly there was a chocolate egg sitting next to his boot where he leaned in the shadow of a building (hoping everyone skipping about would die, of course). He had observed them being dropped off and hatching around the neighbourhood.

Oh look, cute little annoying bunnies were hatching and eating vegetation. He watched them, only taking some amusement as foliage was being decimated. It was only when people started to become upset that it seemed that his unique set of skills.

Reaper pushed off the wall and approaching a group of children who were trying corral three chocolate bunnies. They were so occupied with their own activities that they missed his approach, up until he blew the little rabbits apart with a shot from a firearm. Little bits of chocolate showered the children who screamed and scrambled away.

He discharged a second shot on one little chocolate rabbit that hadn't quite been obliterated. Didn't want it to suffer after all.

"Exterminator here," he said before striding forward and shooting another chocolate bunny crossing the street. Bits of chocolate flew everywhere as the ravenous creature was eviscerated.

Jelly Bean Ambush

From the rooftop, he could observe the chaos that came from jumping beans escaping. At first, they didn't seem so bad, even amusing for the children and rejects alike. It wasn't until he watched few boxes blow open in the street below and what a show that was with people trying to either capture the bouncing beans or trying to dive out of the way of them nailing people.

Reaper was all about maximizing the effects, especially in social situations. After acquiring a handful of boxes of jelly beans, he strode down the street until he found an appropriate small store - fine china - and like he was throwing in a bunch of caltrops, he tossed in the loosely closed boxes into the shop where they exploded open, showering the entirely place with jumping jelly beans.

The slowest assassination with wild candy shrapnel was in effect. He laughed with his deep growling voice as people shrieked and ran out of the store, ducking and shielding themselves not only from jelly beans but shrapnel of china.

"Run, maggots, run."

Essence Experience

He knew the legends, had listened to them often enough after sneaking out to run rampant in the neighbourhood after dark. His ambuela was as sharp as a tack, and she was only to his antics whenever she came to visit, nipping his wandering with dramatic stories of La Lechuza taking revenge on those victims she deemed having crossed her. It wasn't as if he had been climbing trees and batting owls out of the air.

So, he has to learn the skills of a witch who shape-shifted and was hellbent on revenge? He could get behind that, was already mostly behind it when it came to his own quest to right the wrongs done against him.

Shape-shifting seemed to be the most literal and necessary part of this folklore tale, and he was determined to master it. With his form mostly gaseous anyway, he expected that he could mentally force his form into a different form. If he could do it with clothing, he could do it with his physical form?

There were many failed attempts, which was mostly him standing smoking and growling. Concentrate on being an owl. Become the owl. Channel La Lechuza. Seek revenge...

With a swoosh and a puff of black smoke, Reaper emerged as the mighty and potent... red-winged blackbird. Larger than the natural bird, he hopped forward and tilted his head as he considered then lifted a foot to examine it.

Definitely not owl talons!

"This isn't part of the plan..."

Essence Experience

[steadypulse]

There was a hunting rifle propped against his shoulder, lightly colored striped tail swaying idly as for the moment hooves remained planted on the limb he had perched himself on. Of course he'd spotted Reaper, kept himself well within the tree-line rather than rushing in as he had the last time he remembered spotting the man- even in a different styled get up 76 knew it was him.

Had heard him around town, too.

He did snort at the bird that ended up hopping out of the black smoke. Looked like someone was having trouble getting exactly what they wanted. Still, for once he was observing; new tricks up both their sleeves here.

Steelbeak | DuckTales (2017) | Don Quixote

[itsasteel]

[Here we have one huge anthropomorphic rooster with a steel beak, steel chest plating over his neat suit and a helmet with his comb sticking out the top. He's also holding a lance. He's got a very heroic Essence.]


1. Essence Tales (Index)

[Alright, so Steelbeak knows he's got the essence of Don Quixote. Trouble is, he does not really know what that means. There's some vague shreds of information in the back of his head- something about Quixote being a valiant, chivalrous knight who always saves everyone in need and who's fought giants, enchanters, things like that. Saving people is not at all his thing, but fighting? That, he can do. And being fully devoted to a cause, he can definitely sympathize with.

He needs the details, which means he needs to visit one of his least favorite places in any world: the library. (brrr.) He's sitting at one of the tables, the book of Don Quixote in one hand, vocalizing his outrage as he reads.]

Hey! This can't be right! What kinda hack wrote this? “His wits quite gone”? “Madman”?! [Silence? In a library? Never! He's smacking a fist down on the table.] That's making it sound like he was crazy! Or st- … Stupid...!


2. Essence Practice (Index)

[There's a very idle, drifting notion in Steelbeak's mind that having Don Quixote's essence means he can do magic now. Which is weird, because magic is the sort of thing that very few people could do in his own world and he was definitely not one of those people. Still, he's convinced Don Quixote was a totally knowledgeable, totally competent healer and that means he must be too. He just needs to test it. Which means he needs a guinea pig.

Now he's wandering the streets of the Index, stopping anyone he spots in their tracks.]

You! Yeah, you! Are you hurt? Do you need some healing magic? [Alas, that resident he grabbed by the arm is not in need of his services.] No? Well, what if I punch ya real quick? I just gotta try-

[Wow that person sure can run all of a sudden. Time to try someone else, like your character. (Beware, he does have magic, but it doesn't heal. It just makes a character sick(er).)]

Hey, how 'bout you?


3. Versus the Giant

[Now this? This is clearly what he was put in this world to do! Watch out, fearsome giant! Don Quixote- Don Steelxote-- 'Jack' is here to bring this story to a conclusion. Talking? Sneaking? None of that is considered as an option. The way Steelbeak sees it, there's only one way to settle the confrontation and that is to fight. He draws his lance and points it directly up at the giant's face.]

Hey tiny! You're done for! [A second's hesitation, then he realizes that wasn't at all how a chivalrous hero talks. So he lowers his voice and tries again, this time with more of a dramatic flair.] I mean... Fly not, foul being, for a single knight attacks you! Though you flourish more arms than the giant Briareus, ya have to reckon with me!

[nailed it.]

1

[lifesa_witch]

[He is three shouts away from having a book thrown at his face.

She's reading - or now struggling to - at a nearby table, grumbling.]

Would you shut up? Some of us are actually trying to read!

Lena Sabrewing | DuckTales (2017) | Pinocchio

[outofyourshadow]

A. Spring in the Index/Essence Practice?

[ In any normal circumstance, the raining shower petals would be kind of pretty. But Lena would hazard a guess that flower petals didn't fall like a torrent, making it almost impossible to see where one was going.

Or maybe that has more to do with the fact that some trees seems to sway in her direction, scattering petals around her as she passes. Either way, she has to cover her face and keep her beak shut, just so she doesn't choke on the falling petals.

She still spits out a good number of them, though. ]

...yeah, who doesn't love this?

[Can she go home yet?]

B. Harp Rescue

[ So guess who is stuck as the harp? ]

...someone has a sense of humor, I take it.

[ She is clearly not amused. On the plus side, though, she can't really move, so she doesn't actually have to do anything.

...no, actually, that also sucks. ]

C. Wildcard

((Feel like doing something else? Feel free!))

A

[lifesa_witch]

[With so many petals fluttering about, Lena may find it difficult to see any which way. The result of that is bumping into one very ornery sorceress.]

Watch where you're going, brat.

minako arisato | persona 3 portable | rapunzel

[complementing]

1. CHOCOLATE BUNNY INFESTATION

Hello! Excuse meeee~!

[A redhead girl with ridiculously long hair is standing and waving vigorously in any stranger's direction to get their attention. There seem to be an abundance of chocolate rabbits bouncing around under her hair. If she notices them, however, she doesn't comment on it, only clapping her hands together in a pleading way.]

Could you tell me where the nearest hairstylist is? I need to cut off at least ten meters of this, ASAP.

[You can also find her trying to (literally) get them out of her hair, running back and forth along the stretch of the street where it's laid out, shaking some sections so thick that it looks like a curtain instead of part of her. One of the chocolate rabbits hops out in front of her, chewing a chunk of her hair in its mouth. And then poof! There are two rabbits instead. Minako groans and pushes them away with her shoe.]

They're going to become an invasive species if they keep this up. Think, Arisato...how can I get rid of them?

2. ONE WOMAN KARAOKE

[Minako doesn't feel too comfortable fighting when she has so much hair on her head and no reliable way to get rid of it permanently. Singing is an easy request to fulfill, so she's put herself on animal calming duty. No partner yet, alas, but she's hoping that by starting on her own, she'll attract some help.

She sings a lot of lullabys and ballads a high, clear voice, which seem to help some of the animals in the fields calm down. But after a while it makes her sleepy, and her singing tapers off into humming, which, when paired with the perfect spring weather, makes her even sleepier. Eventually she can be found curled up with some of her long Rapunzel hair piled up as a pillow, still humming snatches of a song in her sleep.

At least the smaller animals think she's nice and comfy to sleep with.

Someone might want to wake her up before a bigger one tramples over her, though.]

[afoolshope]

[ If it wasn't super weird, Minato would just eat the bunnies. What? They're chocolate! But also alive and moving around which, you know, made things weird. Minato had been kneeling in front of one, poking it idly with a carrot to get it to stop munching on his wing feathers when he was approached by a girl with really long hair.

The essence was pretty easy to figure out. He gave the girl a slight sympathetic look and shook his head. He stood up, stretching his legs and shaking his wings out of another bunny that was gnawing on them when he heard her mutter to herself.

Wait... ]

Arisato?

[ Oh. He looked a little awkward, rubbing the back of his neck. ]

You wouldn't happen to be Minako, would you?

Fujiwara no Sai | Hikaru No Go | Amabie

[problemsoflifeanddeath]

Index - any outdoor public area with seating that is at all peaceful seeming

Sai was still not used to the fact that people could see him. At all. He had been here only a few days. Just long enough to get himself a Go board and stones, and to find a lovely place play. Now he just needed someone to play with. The Go board was set up on the table, a stone bowl to either side, the curved lid of each removed and ready to receive prisoners. He had checked a dozen times or more that only white stones were in the white bowl and only black stones were in the black bowl.

Waiting to find someone to play with him, he was focusing on the board before him, replaying old games from memory. He seemed utterly serious and mature as he studied the board. Sadly this was an illusion that would shatter as soon as he noticed, well, anybody... But as he played he held his Go stones perfectly, each making a clean sharp sound as it was set down. He found the sound to be pleasant and soothing. Others might disagree, of course.

sorry i'm late!

[blue_ice]

Huh. That was...different. Kaiba recognized the game, if not the person playing it.

"That hard up for an opponent?"

Ana Amari || Overwatch || Bastet

[nanoscope]

1 - Essence Practice
[As you make your way around town, you might notice a cat around town. It's a very distinct cat, most notably due to its missing its right eye. Despite this, it trots around town with purpose, heading down the cobblestone streets as confidently as any of the other people going about their day.]

[If you try to stop and offer it a pet, the feline may pause and allow you to pet her. But if you try to pick her up or swat at her, she hisses and swipes with her own claws. Then, surprisingly, she talks.]

Perhaps you should be more cautious before you attempt to manhandle an animal.

2 - Up The Beanstalk
[This is definitely something out of a fairy tale if Ana's ever seen. Climbing a beanstalk to go stalk a giant? She would hardly believe it if she didn't see it with her own eyes.]

[She's adept at climbing up odd structures to get to sniper locations, but her new Essence form makes climbing up this giant vegetable plant rather easy. Her feline legs and tail make for extra balance, and it's not uncommon to have the older woman be several feet up from her company.]

Is this pace too quick? If you need to slow down, I will follow your lead.

3 - Cerberus Hunting
[Ana has gone on several missions in her career, but hunting a Cerberus is certainly new. And while she doesn't have her rifle with her anymore, she does have a wide variety of new abilities that can prove useful.]

[Her feline ears prick and swivel as she listens for signs of the beast, and from her bag she draws several bottles.]

These potions will be able to put it to sleep in a pinch, but we'd need to know what to do with it afterwards.

Wildcard
[Got any other suggestions for Ana? ]

1.

[detectiveforhierophant]

[Ever since Souji had moved in to his house back in Inaba, Dojima had started to take more notice of cats.

Part of it was to do with finding out just where that local croquet shop was getting their 'beef' from, and part of it was the ...frankly, ridiculous number of cats that were hanging around the car park by the time Souji had left.]

[All the same, this cat was rather striking.]

Huh. Haven't seen you around here before.

[Dojima knelt down a second, offering a hand out to the cat to sniff... while getting a closer look at that scarred eye.]

Looks like you've gotten into a few fights, huh?

Jean Kirstein | Attack on Titan | Beast

[rustyhonesty]

Workshop.

--

Spring Has Sprung

[He definitely wasn't anywhere near home anymore. He had been informed about everything, but it was still a lot to take in. Especially with his hair now on small ponytail length all of a sudden (and tied with a fancy black ribbon) and having small horn-like things on his head.

And rabbit ears. But those are even newer than the two things from before. Great. Was he changing gradually into something weird. His ears twitch in annoyance.]

This place is more of Connie or Sasha's area...

[They're the class clowns, not him.]


Essence Practice

[Heading to the library sounded better than actually testing and seeing what he might be able to do. So here he is, reading stories. Figuring out what he's supposed to be and maybe discover why him and this role.

He's kind of irritated at the story to be honest, but no clue as to what he could actually do as this "Beast".]


Jack and the Giant: Confontation

[Is it a surprise that Jean ends up dealing with a Giant? No. Titans are pretty a lot worse than a giant, in his opinion... but he doesn't really have his normal means to fight. Just a toy harp. What was he supposed to do with this?]

Hey! You want this, don't you?

[He holds up the harp in his hands.]


Wildcard

(If you have other ideas for us to play with, go for it. I'm down for most things.)

Spring

[itsasteel]

[Since arriving at this place, Steelbeak's seen all sorts of odd creatures which don't look quite right. No beaks, no snouts, no fur... But now he's come across an even stranger one. It's a bit like the other ones, except with rabbit ears and horns? He has to stop and stare. ...And open his big beak.]

What're you supposed to be?

Huey Duck | DuckTales (2017) | Chiron (Greek Mythology)

[goingbythebook]

A. Magic Jelly Beans
[Huey, being quite small, of course had received an egg or two full of the jellybeans. And was fully seeing the chaos being caused by them. Well nothing to be said about chaos but to contain it, right? Right!

Armed with a bandolier of empty plastic eggs around his body, he's running through the streets and scooping up each bean he comes across.]

Popcorn! [nab] Cotton candy! [snatch] Cherry cola! [swipe]

[Each full egg is being kept in a basket he's also pulling along. Care to help? Or perhaps re-cause the chaos by breaking into his stores of contained beans.]


B. Essence Practice
[So. Chiron, huh? He supposed he had to thank the Storyteller that he wasn't a centaur all the time, or sleeping in beds would be difficult. Maybe he could get that toga in red, though...

No matter! It was time to practice these abilities. After having read up on the myths and made a list of likely ones, he found himself a clearing where he could work these things through. Standing in place- consulting the list for a moment -he concentrated and-

Light flashed and he stumbled backward, then looked down at himself.]

Ah. That would be where the centaur comes in.

[Yep, calling up his Essence had given him a centaur body, white with red hooves, albeit in the proportions of certain murder ponies. Okay, the first few minutes of this was spent just on getting his balance, which someone might just walk up on him doing. Once that's done though, it's time for business.

With the transformation had come a bow and quiver, which, hah! Cross "Archery" off the list. Doing so quite literally, with a satisfied smirk, he then concentrated on a nearby spot of a hill, an old ant mound or something of the sort.]

Alright Huey, focus... [He raised the bow, notched the arrow.] Remember your training... [Line up the shot...

This, of course, also leaving him well open to interruption.]


C. Unicorn Hunting
[Luckily not all his Essence abilities had him gaining the hooves, which would've made this task more awkward if nothing else. Chiron had been trained in hunting by Artemis herself and so here Huey was, leading the charge (even if only in his own mind) to find these unicorns. It was the duty of any decent person, nay, any Junior Woodchuck!, to save these noble beasts. And with his scout training on top of his literal god-given Essence ability, surely he was just the duck for the job.]

Hmm. [He knelt in the dirt, half-talking to his partner in this- you -over his shoulder.] These prints are a little old. I'd say... [He dipped his finger through the dirt, wiped it between index and thumb, then licked it.] An hour has passed.

C'mon, there's no time to lose!

[And he's off and running. Better catch up!]


D. Wildcard
[Anything goes! Feel free to hit me up at zumidotexe for further plotting~]

A

[lifesa_witch]

[Magica is pondering whether these beans can be weaponized, which is why she's trying to capture some for herself. That's why when Huey catches one before she did, she's about to snap at him...

... duckling + red = GODDAMMIT.]

Uuuughhhh.

Ragna the Bloodedge | BlazBlue | The Grinch

[rebellions]

RABBITS are always a pain

[ Ah yes. Spring. The time when nature awakens from its slumber, bringing smiles and joy to everyone. The time to celebrate the miracle of life, relish in bright colors and share delicious sweets with your friends.

All of that makes Ragna want to gag.

Well, that's not entirely true; he does appreciate the sunny weather at least, and even intended on enjoying it here on this park bench... until they came. They, of course, being the pesky little chocolate rodents that seem to be multiplying by second. Worse yet, they seem to have mistaken Ragna's (now green) hair for some delicacy and are constantly trying to get into his head to have a bite. Given all this, you can't really blame him for his sour mood, now can you? ]

That's it. Get back here, you little piece of shit!

[ That one bunny was the final straw, its attempt to go after Ragna's hair causing him to lunge for it, grabbing it with his hand and unceremoniously crushing the poor thing. Which, admittedly, was not one of his greatest ideas, seeing as he's now covered in the rabbit's (chocolate, but still) remains. ]

Ew, gross...

[ While he tries to remove the stains it finally registers in his head that he's got a company. A few of the local kids were playing in the park, searching for eggs and chasing the bunnies around. Now they're gaping at the man who's just murdered one of the chocolate animals in front of them, their eyes wide and full of fear. ]

The hell are you brats staring at? [ He almost instantly regrets his words, though, as the children's eyes start filling with tears. ] Oh, for fuck's sake─

[ That's all he gets to say before it gets drowned out by wails and sniffles. ]

down with the BEANSTALK

[ So, this seems like a good place to try out these new powers of his. Truth to be told, Ragna still isn't entirely sure how they're even supposed to work, but he's willing to give it a shot if it means getting this whole mess over with. With that thought in mind, he places both of his hands on the beanstalk, focusing on how much he hates the damn thing. That seems to do the trick, as after a brief moment the area where he touches the plant begins to wither, slowly shriveling and turning brown.

While he works on spreading the condition as far as possible, Ragna takes a small break to look at whoever is unfortunate enough to be around, nodding at the nearby chainsaw lying on the ground. ]

Well? Hurry up and move your lazy ass. I've only got two hands, y'know.

[ Even that isn't entirely accurate, but that's neither here nor there. ]

wildcard

[ ooc: Wanna try something else? Go ahead! ]

[complementing]

Busy.

[comes her strained voice. While he was working on wilting the beanstalk, she's been watching his back and fending off a small horde of praying mantises the size of large dogs. She's been managing with a sturdy wooden staff so far-- but it looks pretty banged up by now, and the mantises seem to be making a concerted effort to stick their forelegs into her long, long, long hair to drag her down to the ground. It's plaited pretty tightly, but there's still so much of it that it's would be easy for the mantises to do, if she doesn't keep her distance.]

You're a big strong man, use the chainsaw yourself-- [The last syllable comes as she catches a mantis' forelegs with her staff, pushing it back so its spikes don't gouge her arm.] --and leave the fighting to me.

Sylvain Gautier | Fire Emblem 3 Houses | Lancelot

[ruinedsky]

(workshop post)

A) In the Index: Spring has Sprung!

[Being a man from a very cold, mountainous climate, Sylvain is usually not a big fan of springtime. His allergies act up, it gets way too hot, he feels gross, and his hair won't stay cute because he keeps sweating. Spring in the index is rather charming, though, and he finds himself complaining about it less than he expected. He's able to find lightweight clothes- something sleeveless, breathable pants- and goes wandering to look at everything that's in bloom.

The things in bloom are just as interested in him, it seems.

He passes a flowering tree on his way to introduce himself to someone, thinking nothing of it.]

Hello there! I'm Sylvai-

[He cuts short as a veritable storm of colorful petals is dumped on him, swirling all around and getting into his mouth. He sputters, spitting them out so he doesn't choke, but they're still slapping into his face and being a huge nuisance. Laugh at him? Or help?]

B) In the Index: Downtime

[When he's done being accosted by festive plants, Sylvain decides he could use a break from trying to impress people for a little while. It's terribly easy to find reading material around here, and he's curious about all of the stories that may come from other worlds and cultures he's never known. He plucks something off a shelf in the Grand Library and finds a nice corner to settle himself into.

That said, he's still sitting in the chair facing outward toward the rest of the open space, with general body language that invites interaction. He looks up from his book every time he hears footsteps go past, and flashes a very charming smile at whoever it is.

If the passerby is a lady, he winks, too.]

C) Creature Hunting: Unicorns

[Which quest to help on was a no-brainer. People poaching and maiming innocent horses? Not on this guy's watch. Unicorns, horses, pegasi, same difference. They all have near the same psychology, right? Not that Sylvain has ever actually met a unicorn, but he has every reason to believe they'd be like a skittish horse.

He and one of his teammates have managed to find one of these said poachers, and are making a slow, stealthy approach. Sylvain is glad he chose not to wear full plate armor. He peers around out of the hiding place, readying a javelin in his hand.]

I see two poachers, and one unicorn in a cage. It doesn't look hurt yet.

B)

[detectiveforhierophant]

[ Dojima made a habit of swinging by the Grand Library a few times a month to do his own research. Mainly on the stories of whatever aspects had joined recently. He didn't like being uninformed, after all.

But on this day, while grabbing a book on Greek Mythology, brilliant red hair caught the corner of his eye, and even more than that...

His essence, Arthur was telling him he knew this guy. He was familiar, even if Dojima had never seen him before in his life.

...Well, the body language was enough to tell the young man was open to conversation, so-- ]

Hey... you just arrive?

Atem | Yu-Gi-Oh! | Coyote

[ancientgamer]

Essence Practice

Hrk...! S-Sir, please stop! I am not a dog!

[Except this Index native clearly thought he was, talking or no, and needed to return to his owner. But after he had been asked to prove it and found that he had no idea how to change back to human , he was leashed and was now being pulled down the street. Or, the man was attempting to, Atem was being very stubborn and digging his paws in, causing the leash to tighten uncomfortably around his neck, ears and neck fur bunched rather comically. Did he really look like a common dog? He was supposed to be a coyote, wasn't he?!]

Journal

Atem | Coyote

Hello, my name is Atem, also known as Coyote in Index. I'm still in the process of learning more about my essence but I have found that I am... very good at finding things for people. I figured I could offer my services as I can do this as both a human and a coyote. People, object, etc.

I'm also finding that I am able to identify certain herbs and plants for medicinal use. I'll admit that is not normally my forte but I don't mind helping those in need. If you would allow me some time to learn more, then I can become a proper medicine man for you. I'm aware I may not be the only one but you can't have too many, right?

Also! Just out of curiosity, is it normal to end up here after going to the afterlife? I must admit, I wasn't exactly ready for another adventure. My time in Duat was meant to be the end of my very long journey. Don't worry, I'm not mad or upset. Curious, mostly.

Thank you.

Wildcard

[And of course, wildcard option for those who have other ideas or whatever. Just hit me up!]

essence practice i am so sorry

[blue_ice]

[ Oh, the wealth of dog-related insults he's thought of in a certain blond's absence. There is something painfully familiar about that voice, but that's not his main concern right now. ]

All that barking...hm. It was the inevitable next step up from talking ducks, I guess.

[ His annoying conscience kicks in eventually. ]

Whatever it is, it's clearly not a pet. So I'm gonna have to ask you to let go, and I won't ask again.

[ He hefts his toy sack over his shoulder. Not very intimidating...but a wealth of ideas within, at least. ]

Skull Kid | Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask | Puck

[drawin_on_trees]

[OOC: workshop post here!]

A: Sugar rush

[Skull Kid may have had some initial misgivings when he arrived here all alone, but those were quickly forgotten when he saw all the AMAZING decorations, the fun games, and of course, the free candy. And there's no one around to tell him he's not allowed to just take a big bite out of this chocolate building, right?

Soon, though, he's much more interested in the chocolate bunnies and the magic beans. They're causing SO much trouble, it's so funny! Obviously, the thing to do here is to throw eggs full of beans at people's feet and then sit back and watch the show!

If you happen to be on the receiving end of one of these bean attacks, listen carefully and you might hear the perpetrator giggling from a nearby hiding place.]

B: Free coloring book

[That's what this journal thing is, right? Well, that's what Skull Kid's going to use it for, if the "message" that just came through is any indication.]



[such artistry.]

C: WILDCARD

[come at me, bro]

A

[itsasteel]

[There Steelbeak was, just minding his own business and wondering whether there are any good weapon stores around, when something comes whizzing towards him, landing near his feet. He only has time to try and process that much for a split second, because the next second, he's being hit in the face by a bunch of jumping jelly beans. There's a very particular metallic rattling sound from the ones that hit his beak.]

Ow! Ow ow ow! Hey! [With one sweep of the arm, he manages to ensure the beans all shoot off down the street. He hears the giggling, so now he's looking around madly to see where it's coming from.] Alright, who did that?

Luca Balsa | Identity V | Edmond Dantes

[allegedprisoner]

Arrival (I.a1 + IV)
[ When Luca opened his eyes, it felt like a weight had been lifted from his shoulders... Literally. He felt his hand around his neck, his chest, but the heavy shackle was suddenly gone. ] Wha? [ He looked down at his clothes... No, he had to seek out a reflective surface, a mirror or window or-- A pond! He hurries over to a nearby pond to get a better look at these fine clothes he's found himself in. A more noble suit than he remembers ever having worn, in fact...

... But his eye's still a bit busted, as his brain. He didn't recognize his surroundings before, but... Now that he's looking up from his reflection and glancing about, the unfamiliarity of it all is starting to sink in. ]

Where am I... No, how did I... Get here?

[ He rubs at his temples as he tries to piece together what just happened... He was in prison, that's for sure. He was checking his locker after another long session of hard labor... There was a strange book with a funny story in it... And for a moment he figured helping out these book people would be better than rotting in jail or worse. And then he was here? In somewhat dated aristocratic garb?

If he's dreaming, he doesn't want to wake up. If he's hallucinating, the damage to his brain must have gotten worse... But it feels way too real to be anything a damaged mind could come up with, right?

Here he spots a pedestrian dolled up in their own costume. Whether the person is recognizable or inhuman is highly irrelevant. What matters is if they can help. ]

Excuse me! [ He flags the stranger down as he approaches. ] Hey, did you see someone drop me off here some time ago? I don't see any carriages or the like... [ For better or worse. ]

Literary Nonsense (I.c)
[ It turns out, not only is he not dreaming in any way, but he sort of turned into the Count of Monte Christo of all characters! What a way to be freed from prison! What a way to start anew!

He could surely get started on that grand invention of his now if only he had the tools and blueprints. At least he can actually work towards that goal instead of being trapped in a hopeless situation... But he'll have to compensate for his poor memory. Good thing this nifty journal he was given has a Notes section... ]

Day 1

to do:
- acclimate self with "The Index"
- go to the library and read up on the novel (will they let me take it home?)
- figure out current technological limi

[ And here he noticed his notes were marked with his name and his Essence. Looks like he hadn't quite realized what this section was really for... ]

Zappity zap zap? (III.2)
[ The accident that ruined his life had an interesting side effect, but that didn't quite follow him into the Realm of Stories. In its place a heavy feeling gradually welled up in his chest, accompanied by the occasional "spark" of dark energy darting across his body. It's enough to make a regular person restless, but...

Well, it could come in handy now. That was the thought he had when he signed onto this request for a few extra coins. How bad could a large dog be?

... He didn't expect it to be that large. Can't help but feel uneasy when you're dealing with a dog the size of a horse.

Bzzt goes a spark that dances across his eye for a moment. He grins. ]

Heh! I have an idea, [ he mutters to a teammate in a low voice, ] but you're gonna have to stay back if I try it. There's no telling what this power could do to a person.

[ Yeah... Let's not have a repeat of that accident, shall we? ]

Arrival (I.a1 + IV)

[detectiveforhierophant]

Hm?

[ Dojima was out doing his rounds, only to be flagged down by someone he didn't recognize. The clothing sort of fit the Index, but there was a specific flair to them that Dojima couldn't place. ]

[ Well, it wasn't like he had any need to know about historical European Fashion after all... ]

[ Luca would find the man he flagged down wearing something akin to a Kingdom Guard or watchman, though... perhaps more ornate than usual? It was the sword at his side, for sure, that almost seem to glimmer. ]

Dropped you off? No, not that I've seen...

[ He paused a moment, giving the kid a once over. Seems like he was confused... ]

...Let me guess; did you find a strange book?

Kou Ichijo | Persona 4 | Cinderella

[learningtostand]

A/B. Out in the City with some Essence ... "practice"

[As Kou starts exploring his new "home", he looks through his satchel to find a stranger pair of glass slippers. He decides that he should just leave them and hope someone else takes them. He knows his essence is "Cinderella" but there was no way the shoes would fit him.

But as it turns out, someone follows him and gives them back saying "if they were in your satchel, they're yours and you should take them". Oh bother.

So he sits down on a bench and decides to at least see if the shoes are a fit.


And the moment he puts them both on magic surrounds him and once done, he has a sparkling white dress on him.]

Whaaaaat?!

[AT LEAST GIVE HIM A SUIT YOU JERKS! He tries to kick the shoes off, but they're too good of a fit to actually fall like that.]

Gah! Off! Off I say!


B2. Essence... training...

[Kou went to the library to remind himself of Cinderella the story. It seemed pretty awful, but nothing too crazy at the same time. If he didn't wear the shoes then maybe he'd be fine....]

Please! I want you! LET'S MAKE BABIES!

[What? Kou looks up, to the direction of the voice. There are two birds. One of them is definitely trying to seduce the other with some sort of a dance.]

No sir, no way! You need to prove yourself worthy!

But my love, look at me dance! Look at my beautiful dance and let me make love to you tonight.

... you've gotta be kidding me.

[He starts walking faster. In his haste he is likely to run into something or someone tbh.]


Journal

Sender: Kou Ichijo | Cinderella
Recipient: Everyone

Anyone here play basketball?

A/B

[detectiveforhierophant]

[ Dojima was always considered a bit strange back at the precinct for not wanting a 'cushy' desk job, instead being content in his position as a plain clothed detective. He didn't like the idea of not being able to investigate himself, or keep an eye on the town himself.

So he was grateful no one questioning him doing that here in the Index, allowing him to go on guard rounds-- ]


[ ...Huh. Odd, why was that voice familiar? ]

[ Looking around, he saw the back of a young woman? In a lovely white dress, seeming to have... something stuck on her feet? For moment, the hair colour reminds him of Naoto Shirogane-- ]

[ ...Haha, that would be something, seeing her dressed like that, but that was neither here no there. Besides, the voice had been a young man, right? ... Or maybe he misheard. ]

[ Regardless, he walked over to her, clearing his throat. ]

Are you alright, miss?

[When ever the young woman turned around, he'd find a familiar older man, wearing very western armour and a noticable sword on his side. Talk about surreal, right?]

Rei Ryugazaki | Free! | Odette

[butterflop]

[A- Spring Has Sprung!]

It took a bit of time- okay, the average amount of time+1- to fully grasp that a statistic impossibility of landing in a storybook world somehow fell in his lap and all but slapped him in the face. Was he dreaming? No. Somehow, this was all real and he needed to bust his backside in figuring this whole thing out before those- those things decide to do horrible things to his home, his family, his friends. It wasn't enough to try and learn to perfect each swimming stroke and win each competition anymore... everything rest on his shoulders, and some nights he could admit he lay wide awake, drenched in a cold sweat.

But none of that seemed clear, here. He was very sweat-free, dressed crisply as he snapped yet another book shut and placed it atop one pile, quickly turning to reach for another tome from a pile to his other side. The book topics seemed to be about the psychology of magic, willpower, and even ornithological studies. Magic and birds... what was the world coming to?

Rei sighed, and hadn't quite grabbed the next volume. Instead he reached beneath his glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose. What he wouldn't give to close his eyes and somehow wake up in his own bed, realize he may have had something too sweet before bed and his life was normal? But he'd wished for that so many times, and at this point was fooling himself.

He sighed in a breath through his nose and gave his cheeks a sound slap with both hands. Come on, this was like study sessions back home! Get it together! But he heard the flap of paper and impact, and turned. Exclaimed. His elbow must have struck the "To Read" pile, sending it toppling to the ground.

An oath under his breath, he moved quickly to check on them, stack them back up, hope beyond hope that he hadn't scuffed any covers, bent any pages...!


[B- Essence Practice]

For a guy who decided to take to a park to roll around in the grass next to a pond, he sure wasn't very good at frolicking. In fact, he was quietly talking to himself.

"Feet planted equal to shoulders, knees turned out. Lower hips until the knees bend 90 degrees. Place left hand on left knee and begin to roll right shoulder toward your left knee, curling your torso across your body. Hold for 30 seconds." He eased into position and held for precisely 30 seconds, and slowly reversed for the other side.

Oh, stretching! How thoughtful of this one to warm up. Seems he was just finishing up. With a satisfied sigh he stood. Alright. It's time to try again.

Rei assumed fourth position and entered a tight focus. He eased out a breath and began to dance, arms and legs the utmost of grace. He'd figured the theory of ballet dancing at least, learned all of the positions and even proper diet and stretches to hone one's body. Fortunately for him, it wasn't terribly different from his track regimen (albeit the stretches here for far gentler, he noted, rather than toning and strengthening muscle). Slowly his clothing began to shift from commoner to royalty, finely-tailored clothing dressing him from head to toe complete with crown.

Good, good. That always happens. Now, the water...?

The pond was rippling as he danced, and Rei fought to keep from staring. He knew he could make water move. He just had to get better at it...! Slowly, a thin tendril (a pitiful one, really) began to swirl and rise from the surface and Rei's mind ran with possibilities. He could ensnare foes, trip them up, maybe douse a few flames. Oh, how beautiful it would be!! He laughed joyously, twirled and leaped. Come, water! You're not a lot but that's just fine! Come and dazzle the crowd!

Splash! The tendril of water twisted high, then descended like a hose had let loose upon him. Caught off-guard, drenched from head to toe, this dancer stumbled back onto both feet.

"WHY!?"

Spring Has Sprung

[bloodinbloom]

"Eep!"

That hurt!

Her tail immediately reeled into her body and she brought it up to her claws to rub. She didn't even look back to know what had happened was books had toppled onto her tail because several snakes were had been watching and were tearing up too.

Turning her head, she was managing not to cry while she knelt down to help the guy gather up his books.

"H-Here, I'll help..."

Asriel Dreemurr | Undertale | Jack and the Beanstalk

[justabaddream]

[Arrival]

[Asriel had no idea what he was signing up for upon his arrival. Really, he was eager to do anything to save himself from his flowery fate. He keeps touching his face, over and over again. Just to make sure he'd find white fur there, instead of flower petals.

This was too good to be true, wasn't it? He'd done some pretty awful things. The last thing he deserved was a second chance. Becoming Flowey had to be inevitable.

But for a moment, he forgets all of that when he sees sunlight pouring out over the city, basking everything in a golden glow. He remembers this, even though it'd been so long ago. Monsters would give anything to see a view like this - though hopefully, Frisk made sure that they did.

He closes his eyes, just enjoying the spring breeze gently ruffling his fur. He tears up, just a little bit.]

[Essence practice]

[Despite his supposed "second chance", Asriel can't get rid of Flowey that easily. Large vines extend from the ground, tangling together into one big stalk. The young goat monster stares at the vines with a sour expression.]

You've got to be kidding me... couldn't I have something cooler?

Sherlock Holmes | Dai Gyakuten Saiban |The Pied Piper

[greatestdefective]

[For more info, visit Sherlock's Workshop post!]

1. Essence Practice (Index)

[Sherlock has been given a new toy! To be fair, he was given a lot of things when he accepted the Storyteller's offer, but he's never been one to stand idly by in confusion. Period of adjustment? Absolutely not! This is a different world and he is going to save the day and that is all perfectly acceptable to him. No, what's most important now is testing his new 'abilities'. His Essence. He's sure he's heard the tale of the Pied Piper before, but he doesn't remember the details of the story. (He can barely remember the details of his own stories.) The only thing for it is to play the flute he was given and see what happens.

Oh boy does something happen.

People who are out in the streets of the Index may at first hear the flute's melody. Beware, beware, for as it draws nearer, there will be visual confirmation. Sherlock is leading the way down the sidewalk, followed by at least thirty rats of varying colors and sizes. They're all walking in the exact same trot, keeping the exact same amount of distance from one another.

Scream, fight, tell him to stop leading vermin through the city... Whatever!]


2. REQUEST: BARDS, MUSICIANS, CHARMERS

[There's a whole bunch of nervous cows trampling through a beet field, destroying the crops themselves and chewing at the leaves. The farmers were right to put in a request for help! Just beside the field stands Sherlock Holmes, playing a cheery, upbeat melody on his flute. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to have much of an effect on the cows. While there are a few who look up and bob their heads along to the melody, most of them continue their anxious rampage. After about a minute of playing, he lowers the flute with a cringe.]

Rats! The flute's magic only works on rodents! [There's a few seconds of frustration before he raises a hand to his hat, looking thoughtful.] Though, music itself does seem to have an effect. Perhaps... a duet?

[He snaps out of his musing and looks around, then points a finger to whoever happens to be nearby.]

You there! … Yes, you! Come! I require an assistant for this magnificent performance!


3. The Journal (Index)

Sender: The Pied Piper | Sherlock Holmes
Recipient: Everyone

Good day, folks!

Rejoice, for the hero you've awaited has finally arrived! That's right, I'm referring to the world's most brilliant, most inventive, most famous, most rhythmic, most awe-inspiring detective: The Great Sherlock Holmes. Indeed, that Sherlock Holmes, the very same.

And to answer the question that is sure to be needling your minds: Yes, I do sign autographs for a small fee.

Now, allow me to parry that question with one of my own. What is the best way for someone with my skill set to earn some quick money? Any riddles which require solving? Any murderers about to get away with their crimes? Any missing cats in need of tracking? Any orchestras in need of a violinist? ...Or a flutist? There is no job I will not take.


4. Wildcard

[Do whatever, or hit me up at Meowzy or in the Discord server for plotting.]

Essence Practice

[allegedprisoner]

[To be perfectly fair, Mr. Holmes isn't the only scatterbrained genius in the index.

Luca himself was wandering aimlessly through town, trying to remember exactly what he came here for, when he suddenly heard a piper approaching from down the street. Is that... Street music? No, it's coming closer, must be a parade.

He quickly rushes out of the way, expecting the flute to be accompanied by more instruments and a large procession.

But no. Instead, there's a single musician leading a pack of rats down the sidewalk.

Curiosity overtakes Luca, which leads him to follow the piper as well.]

... Excuse me, sir. What are you doing?

Alice Liddell | American McGee's Alice/Alice: Madness Returns | Dorothy Gale

[madventure]

{Workshop Post!}

Spring Has Sprung!
Oh, I can't say this would ever be a look for me.

[That would be a young woman, checkered blue dress and all with a basket hanging at the crook of her arm, frowning a little at herself in the reflection of a storefront window. A hand was lifted, the tip of a soft brown rabbit ear caught between forefinger and thumb, the other twitching idly where it had sprouted. A silver boot tapping cobblestone, looking up at the caught ear.]

First I'm already looking unlike myself, and now am I supposed to be some sort of rabbit? I feel as if I've dealt with enough by now....

[She might have dealt with the chocolate rabbits already- she never did care much for sweets.]

Essence Practice
And Toto, Too!
[There was an adorable black furred Scottie dog sitting at her feet, staring up at her and tail wagging-]

Well, I suppose we're both fortunate I'm fond of things other than cats.

[A bark! Alice sitting on the balls of her feet, arms folded over knees where her skirt was still short enough to show off the shine of those fetching silver boots she wore. A hand reached out to pet the dog who was just happy to be here by the looks of things.]

What am I to do with you... Toto, is it?

[A bark as if in affirmation. She'd read the dog tag, okay.]

We're Off To Emerald City!
[Fingertips ran along the back of the green blade, turning it side to side as if she were examining a too familiar and yet unfamiliar to her all at once. Even swinging it a little, listening to the way the blade swung through the air.

She spun on a heel, skirt flared, and darted forwards suddenly with a little bit of wind kicking up as if to quicken her pace

And down fell a stuffed dummy in two once she passed it, glancing over her shoulder.]

Well, I suppose this shall do. It's no Vorpal Blade, but it seems efficiently sharp to do any task. [Resting the side of the blade on her palm, checking it for any damage just in case.]

Library
[She always did have a love of reading.

Which was why she was sitting on a table, it floating several feet off the ground, legs crossed and hanging over the edge of it, with a book in hand. Basket set beside her and a little black Scottie having his head poked out one side of it as if reading the book placed in her lap right along with her.]

So these shoes are powerful magic, yes? They were taken off that other witch, and it seems my little test here has worked.

[She made the table float, it made reaching the book easier okay.

... Yes, she was talking to the dog.]

Just how wicked is this witch truly meant to be? Chasing after shoes seems quite odd, on top of them being made magic in the first place.

[... Alice, honey.]

[Wildcard! Make your own prompt idk go wild.]

Library

[allegedprisoner]

You don't say...

[ An odd gentleman in a French noble's suit had come here to look at his own essence's story. He did succeed in finding it this time and was holding it in his hand, but he managed to get lost on the way out.

On the bright side, moments like these have a way of leading him to interesting company. ]

I should warn you, the powers you have now might not be exactly as they are in the book.

Duo Maxwell | New Mobile Report Gundam Wing | Peter Pan

[divine_braid]

Around the Index - Rabbits and Beans!

LOOK OUT!

[Someone had gotten the knack of flying, for sure... but definitely not of landing. Good thing he seemed to have gotten a bit more durable in this place. As he crashes into a bush, a swarm of chocolate bunnies not only is released from his arms where he'd been catching them, but also where some had been hiding underneath the bush he'd crashed into, increasing the number by three times as many.

At the same time, he knocked over a cart selling jumping jelly beans, which, of course, busted open several boxes, sending the beans bouncing all over the place.

Sorry?]

Climb the Beanstalk

[Okay, now would be a good time to get that flying thing under control, but... lightning? Duo was wary about that. Flying in a storm while inside a vehicle could sometimes be hairy enough, but he was going to be doing that without protection. No thanks. He'd climb. Of course, that meant being careful of everything else that was going on... bugs, and things attacking, leaf platforms that sometimes were flesh-eating plants... it was great.

He reached down to someone below him.]

Come on. We have to keep going!

[He'd help you, and you could maybe help him in return? Climbing buddies!]

Xehanort | Kingdom Hearts | Fafnir

[keyinblack]

Essence Practice

FIRE!

[Nothing, not even a spark.

His essence was supposed to be a dragon, wasn't it? Aside from a slight change to his eyes, ears and teeth, Xehanort didn't feel much different, he didn't feel stronger, or more powerful, but maybe there was something he was missing, maybe his powers weren't the obvious ones. Dragons could control elements other than fire, first of all.]

WATER!

[Still nothing, Xehanort looks at his hands, frustrated. Was this just going to be trial and error?]

Library

[Xehanort can be found in a dark corner of the library, surrounded by more books than one person could read in a day. Books about various myths and legends about dragons, from many different cultures.

He can be heard musing to himself...]

... Dragon-shifters? Interesting...