⇨ TEST DRIVE MEME #1

[ringleaders]

WELCOME TO THE SHOW!↴ Or, more specifically, Lost Carnival's first test drive meme! This is an opportunity to try out your characters in the setting before you apply, or to put together samples for characters you've never played before. There are going to be options for both new arrivals and veteran characters. Before we get started, let's lay down some details: You can read the full premise here. Reserves open October 5th at 12:01AM EST. Applications open October 7th at 12:01AM EST. You can apply as a newcomer or as a "veteran" character who has been in the carnival for up to three years. TDM threads can be used as game canon after the fact if both characters are accepted and the players agree to it. If you are interested in additional IC and OOC plot responsibilities, consider applying for a Supervisor position. Supervisor applications will start being processed a few days after apps open, and will be selected on a competitive basis. If you want a supervisor position, it is best to submit your application as close to the beginning of the application cycle as possible. If you don't get chosen for your desired supervisor position, you will be given time to rework your application to be a regular veteran, or to apply for a supervisor position that is not yet taken. Lost Carnival could use some additional moderation assistance! If you are interested, please let us know here. NEW RECRUITS↴ You gotta start somewhere, right? These prompts are for characters who are arriving in the carnival for the first time, and who are destined to sign a contract. How they go about that is up to you, but in the meantime they can enjoy the sights and sounds of something truly out of this world. Visitors to the carnival comes from many different worlds today, as the ringmaster casts out her recruitment lures. Will you become her most recent hire? ► ADMISSION FEES: After crossing into the carnival's realm and passing through the trees, most visitors will find themselves at the front gate - though not all choose to enter that way. If they enter legitimately, however, they will have to pass by a clerk who will trade admission and tickets for various attractions and rides in exchange for "anything of value." What is of value may seem highly subjective, and so some may struggle to produce payment at first, though in actuality the carnival will take anything from mundane currency to items of purely sentimental value. ► MIRROR MAZE: The mirror maze (pictured above) is a big attraction in the carnival, and stretches much further on the inside than it looks like it will on the outside. It's hard to get through, and what's more, after you've been in there for a while your reflections will start gaining a mind of their own - mostly in order to taunt and distract you with personal information. They don't know everything you know, but they know more than they should, and their mind games can be pretty hit or miss. ► GAMER'S CIRCLE: Almost all of the game booths are organized in a large ring around the Cookhouse, called Gamer's Circle. Your can play just about any carnival game you can imagine here, for a variety of prizes sometimes traditional, exotic, or outright magical. Dart tossing? Got it. That game with the water guns? Got it. Most of these booths are currently manned by humanoid spirits who look like they are made of smoke. If they can trick you into earning debt, they will. ► TRYING TO LEAF: No matter where you came from, you seemingly emerged from a forest. Obviously, to get back home you should be able to go back in the same direction, right? It turns out you can't. Worse, trying too hard to get through the wood will result in you getting lost, or turned back to the carnival. The trees here are not normal, and are varying levels of alien, including things like trees with glowing fruit or orange flowers that constantly burn like candles. ► NOT YOUR WHEELHOUSE (NEW): Sometimes, even magical ferris wheels get stuck. The carnival's particular wheel is enchanted to create a particular out of this world experience - as you pass along the top, you feel as if they are so close to the sky that you can interact with the stars like baubles hanging above your head. Of course, the novelty probably wears off when the wheel is broken and you've been stuck enjoying the light show with some stranger for the last half hour. How are you going to pass the time? ► WILD CARD: Anything else you can imagine in this setting! There are a lot of possibilities and you're free to explore them. Check out the rest of the game info or the locations page for additional inspiration. Want to make a starter with your character experiencing their first theoretical change? Go for it! VETERAN WORKERS↴ These prompts are tailored to the carnival's existing employees, the veterans. Odds are they've been here from somewhere between a few months and three years already, and know their way around the block. For them, this is just business as usual - and depending on their attitude towards their job, they may or may not contribute to a few people accidentally getting themselves a contract. Whatever you do, though, don't warn visitors away from the carnival - the ringmaster hates losing business like that. ► DO YOUR WORK: This one's pretty simple - just have your character doing whatever you'd like to have their job be! There is a big list of ideas over here, and you could use this to try things out with a character you intend to be a new arrival, as well. ► WILL O' WISPS: The ringmaster's will o' wisps have gotten free, and she's asked that everyone keep and eye out and help her reclaim them regardless of their official jobs. Wisps are small creatures that burn both hot and cold and comes in a few different variations of the same basic theme. Handling them physically (or psionically, or magically, for that matter) is difficult due to their near intangible nature. Touching and being around them can result in confusion and a sensation similar to being comfortably drunk. ► BREAK TIME: Whatever you were doing, it's break time! It's time for you to relax however you see fit. Do you enjoy some of the carnival attractions yourself, or is that old by now? Do you hang out in the Cookhouse to get a snack? Do you take a nap? Yolo, baby! ► RIDDLE GAME: For a bit of fun, the ringmaster has left a variety of locked chests around the worker areas of the carnival, each with instructions and a riddle written on their lids. The chest will accept three guesses from each worker before refusing to respond to them any further. If you guess the right answer, the chest will open and you will be rewarded with some manner of fun magical knick knack. If you've run out of guesses, maybe you can conspire with someone else and promise to split the prize? ► WILD CARD: Anything else you can imagine in this setting! There are a lot of possibilities and you're free to explore them. Check out the rest of the game info or the locations page for additional inspiration. Want to do a performance? Hang out in the Backyard? Choose whatever appeals!

Comments

gilgamesh | fate/ | veteran

[babbylon]

do your work.

[Gilgamesh, going about business as usual, has run into a problem: they're drastically low on inventory. Treasure, to be more precise, and as someone laboring directly beneath the treasurer, this was a problem he was meant to fix. Now, being a bit of a trickster, Gilgamesh does not take the standard route of remedying said problem.

Instead, he calls out to the nearest passerby, gesturing them over and instructing them point blank:]

You. Play a game with me. Ante up your finest possessions.

[Whether or not you do so, he's clearly expecting some wager from you... and it doesn't look like you're wriggling out of a round or two with one of the carnival's slimiest denizens.]

will o' wisps.

[One would think, given that Gilgamesh was more dragon than man, that he enjoyed a particular resistance to ice or flame. Unfortunately for himself and everyone around him, this was not the case. Gilgamesh has spent the past several hours chasing the wisps to no avail, and due to his extended exposure... well...]

Heheheheh...

[He's a little loopy. Or a lot loopy, depending on your perspective. Comfortably drunk meant Gilgamesh was quite comfortable hitting on anyone and everyone in the nearest vicinity, including you. You know, just in case that catty wink and beckoning wag of a finger wasn't indication enough.]

What's the rush, then? Rest your feet for a while, friend.

[The condescending way his lip curls suggests Gilgamesh has not considered anyone a "friend" for a very, very long time.]

I promise you, the wisps can wait. Why not indulge in some fun with me?

[Just what kind of "fun" he's referring to seems to explain itself.]

riddle game.

[Gilgamesh adored riddles. In fact, it wouldn't be unfair to say he was exceptional at them. He's already claimed his own prize for the day, so instead he's lurking around watching others give it a go. Eventually, he's lurking around you, perched just above the chest in question with a grin on his face.]

Are you in need of help, little one?

[Gilgamesh's help often came at a price. Maybe it would be best to ignore him here... if that's even possible.]

wildcard.

[Hit me up with whatever you've got! We'll roll with it together.]

(( Introducing Gilgamesh from Fate/! He's a nasty fellow, so be advised he may do nasty things if you tag him. A rough draft of his carnival history and contract info can be found here, and I've got some reference sketches for his general appearance. Feel free to PM with any questions! ))

do your work

[nowingsyet]

[NONA1 was merely making her way to another tent before a voice calls her over. Admittedly she was the triple advantage (or disadvantage) of being a newbie, overly curious, AND a android that admittedly knows very little about how devious others can be.]

The subject is willing to play a game. Queries: What is the game you are willing to play and what is the wager I must give?

[babbylon]

[...the subject. Really. Truly. Gilgamesh has encountered his fair share of strange carnies, but he has yet to be referred to as a subject. It causes him to bristle on instinct and glare with red, red eyes at this "NONA1". Gilgamesh has lost much here, but he certainly has not lost his sense of pride.]

A simple coin toss. You call heads or tails, the coin lands heads or tails, and you are rewarded accordingly.

[Or punished, as it turns out. He just doesn't mention that part.]

As for a wager, anything of value will do. The richer, the better.

[nowingsyet]

[Admittedly, NONA1 can't exactly pick up minute emotional details like most humans or even the fae. She stares at the dragon-like man, her eyes blank and expressionless.

His offer sounds reasonable, but she feels she has no metals or money to offer for the wager. Most of them were taken away for the circus to have or are loan from them for performances. There's only one possession left.

She feels conflicted, but surely she can win this back if she loses, right? She undoes a handmade necklace with glowing purple jewel at the end and hands it to Gilgamesh.]

The necklace is a jewel from the Driftwish clan of the Fae. My namesake wore it as it enhances magical power. It was given to me the day I was awakened for trials.

riddle game!

[hoasen]

[Vietnam enjoys a good game, but here she is, sitting on the balls of her feet, resting her face on her hand as she gives this riddle chest some thought. Problem is, she may enjoy games, but she's not exactly the best at them like Gilgamesh is. Or at least, she needs a bit more time.

Hearing a voice above her, she turns her head to look upwards at the owner. Who is this now? Ah, she's seen him before. Part of the treasury, right?

LITTLE ONE, THOUGH. Well he's not wrong.]

I am not in dire need of help yet, but you are wanting a share of the prize, no?

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh preens in response, in a transparent show of modesty. Everything about the gesture oozes nastiness.]

Oh, me? Perhaps if you were willing to be so kind...

[hoasen]

[HEY HE'S NOT SO BAD HE'S PRETTY HUMBLE.

No. He's not. However, Vietnam isn't want to actually fear such actions only because of her beliefs in her ability.

So she pats the spot beside her.]

Then join me. I am a fair woman, if you say you wish to help, then I am willing to share.

riddle game.

[wardance]

[ Masamune has been trying so hard.

One, to figure this riddle out. Two, to ignore the really obvious uhm, carnival resident, he guesses(?) that's hanging around. He's hyper aware of it, mostly because he had been observing that tail (it was the first dragonlike thing he saw, okay, it was going to catch his attention no matter what) a distance very intently earlier this evening before moving along. He doesn't even actually know what the individual looks like—he never got past the western wings-display.

So, when he finally has to acknowledge this presence, he sets a gloved hand down on the top of the still closed chest and laughs good-naturedly at the question. He even offers a smile before he sighs but doesn't lift his head to pull his attention away from the chest. ]

No. Someone else does, though, I'm sure.

[ he goes back to scribbling on the scrap paper, scattering his thoughts over it in hopes of getting in the right track before trying again.

go away. ]

[babbylon]

[Go away, the stranger all but says. Come closer, Gilgamesh all but hears. Gilgamesh fluffs up those impressive wings and glides down, smooth as could be, flashing a flirtatious smirk at Masamune. Gilgamesh had earned something of a reputation for predatory behavior off the clock, and so too does he display it here.]

It does not appear you are making much progress.

[Never mind his superb eyesight, it's just a very specific guess based on observation. Really, Masamune looks downright lost. His favorite type of person to lead further astray.]

Are you certain you did not even desire a hint of some sort? There is no shame in asking.

[wardance]

[ Well... that much is true. Masamune creases his brow a little but doesn't let any more acknowledgement escape from him than that. ]

Uh huh... And why should I think you know the answer, already, to offer me a hint even if I did?

[ He's cautious, keeping his attention in his paper but not completely willing to give up being able to watch the ... dragon? Masamune supposes a dragon is easiest a description. Of course, he can only do if from one side and angle... but he'll make the best of it like he always does. ]

will o' wisps...

[geho]

[And then there's this asshole...

Okita's at a distance when he calls to her and, right now, she has every intention of staying that way. In fact, maybe she'll be even further away in a moment. Maybe he'll just accept a polite refusal and let her go on her merry way...

...yeah, as if. She's too used to his type. She knows better.]

Ah, well...work first, play later. That's just how it is I'm afraid, so sorry, bye.

[yeah bye she's leaving]

sorry for him in advance, souji...

[babbylon]

[Cool beans. He's following.]

Do not be so modest, woman. You are more than welcome to accompany me for as long you wish...

[...he's following, and not only that, brushing him off will prove an arduous task in itself. She's a woman, and she's also a very beautiful woman with a face like someone he could never forget, so she's effectively doomed herself to his company. Unless she can convince him otherwise.

And trying to convince Gilgamesh to give up on a sweet piece of tail was truly a once in a lifetime event.]

Work, play, it is all the same in this place. Or hadn't you noticed?

she's used to shitty archers

[geho]

[Why is life so hard? She never asked to be a saberface.

Okita continues walking as he follows along, as if hoping that'll just make the problem go away. Maybe he'll get bored.

For the love of god please get bored.]

Unfortunately, that's just how this dutiful saber-san before you is...a "hard work is its own reward" type. Not very interesting I'm afraid.

do your work.

[usermaatre]

Ha! With you? What sort of trivial game could you possibly offer me that's worth even one of my least? Speak swiftly, contractor, my patience for this event of games wears thin as it is.

[ I'm sorry, were you trying to tell him what he was going to do and how he was going to do it?

He's expecting an answer, quickly. Or he's moving on his way without another word. ]

[babbylon]

[...this right here was a piece of work, Gilgamesh could tell already. Brows shoot straight up as he assesses him and immediately determines him not to be threat; he then shrugs his shoulders and holds his stance. A stance that has now turned slightly aggressive by a Servant's standards.]

A game of riches, wealth, and bounty. There can be none other.

[Not for people like them.]

[usermaatre]

[ Such a mistake for the King of Heroes to draw such conclusions.

Ozymandias sees that the other will not be backing down. No matter, a minor irritation and several wasted minutes. Ramesses does not back off despite the more aggressive stance that the other has taken. He merely observes, his eyes flickering momentarily— of what exactly, isn't known, before bringing one hand to rest on his hip.

He is not inclined to be wagering anything he owns, really—not because he fears losing it but because it is inconvenient to offer and then take back. The rewards sound interesting and with potential but he does not trust any of the carnival nor its employees. Their magic is obvious to him and it reeks of mischief and deceit, albeit not necessary all of ill will.

Nevertheless, it is untrustworthy. ]

Hou? For such a claim to be made... [ this'll be indeed rich, at least, one way or another, he supposes.

Very well. Conjure a game. I will offer an appropriate wager should it be of such merit as you say.

[ there's no need for him to be waving possessions about in offers for games he knows nothing of concerning its content. To do such is to commit to the game before even knowing of it's true nature.

Ozymandias will make the choice when he is fine good and ready.

His own stance has become a warning. It acknowledges the other's existence, and there is aggression to be had if one is not careful, but there is no aggressive suggestion of pushing forward without first a reason. More or less, he's still giving Gilgamesh a chance to avoid a mistake because he is a tolerant and generous Pharoah that likes to show mercy at times when it is most needed. Such as now. The window only remains open for so long, however.

He does not take kindly even to the thought someone may be dishonest with him in their words or actions. ]

will o' wisps

[dorkypantsuit]

[Two pairs of eyes blink confused in Gilgamesh's direction.]

I mean, if you want to? But I really feel like we should catch all the wisps first.

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh locks eyes with him—or at least a single pair—and is at once fascinated, drifting closer.]

I believe I have caught something far more interesting now.

[dorkypantsuit]

[It's not often that The Ψiioniic feels preyed upon, but now would definitely be one of those moments. He takes a step back, bio-luminescent freckles changing in color to a dim pink.]

Oh yeah? What's that?

Do your work

[1halfofawhole]

[ He should just walk by. He should. But Ranma can't ignore a challenge and that is what this is, isn't it? He wonders what it's going to be. With a Carnival, it could be just about anything. But that's why he's the Heir of the Anything Goes School, he'll manage it, somehow. So he'll just go over to the guy, prideful and utterly sure of himself. ]

My finest possession? That's my pride as a martial artist! I'll put my pride on the line! So what's the contest? Anything Goes Martial Arts Juggling? Anything Goes Martial Arts Cotton Candy Eating. Anything Goes....

[ He could be at this a while. ]

[babbylon]

[While it hadn't been the original plan to do so, when Ranma mentions martial arts, Gilgamesh's mind immediately leaps to a test of strength. He hasn't gotten the chance for much exercise today, and although Ranma didn't look particularly tough, the carnival made it clear from the get go that appearances could be deceiving.

Still, Gilgamesh matches that cockiness in spades, and grins sharp-toothed back at him.]

You sound rather confident in your physical prowess. But alas; I know no such specialized moves.

[Gilgamesh does not seem at all concerned, however, offering up his own suggestion.]

I propose a simpler test, rooted in judo yet possible for any to perform: we shall attempt to throw one another to the ground, and whoever shall hit it first loses.

Will O' Wisps

[fastestdraw]

[Hitting on anyone, huh?

Anyone?

Including this half-skeleton half-horse centaur merc? It'ssss pretty clear something's up, enough that Easel's stopping down out of sheer bafflement despite how honestly he's got his mind on getting at least a few wisps rounded up.]

...Nawww, thanks, pardner -- told ya... I got a lady waiting back home!

[Which is true, but whether or not he's actually told Gilgamesh before is irrelevant.]

Y'all feelin' all right, Treasurer?

oh my god this thread is going to be full of regrets

[babbylon]

[Indeed, anyone. Though Gilgamesh does quirk a brow once his new companion comes into view; that's a lot more bones than he was expecting and necessarily cared for in a partner, but it intrigues him enough to approach and study him curiously.]

A "lady" horse?

[Wait, no, would that be lady skeleton? Lady centaur? Uh...]

You're some sort of something, alright. Explain yourself.

do your work

[rescuee]

[ Jajo might be lost, bewildered, sort of hungry, and completely surrounded by bizarre-looking aliens, but that's no reason to be rude. So when Gilgamesh calls him over (nice horns; he likes those), of course he obliges, and turns his giant frame toward this newest stranger.

The demand is not quite one he was expecting, according to his blink. ]

Oh, well... I don't have any of those with me.

[ He pats his pockets regardless, though. He's totally loaded, of course, but has his doubts that his money has much value in this particular economy. He's resigned to it. ]

Maybe we can settle for a second finest possession. [ And more to the point: ] What's the game?

[babbylon]

[...well. He's certainly large, alright.

Gilgamesh looks up, up, up, but does not seem the slightest bit intimidated by any differences in size. If anything, he's intrigued by the particularly strange or exotic, and Jajo apparently qualifies as both. He takes a few steps towards him, not necessarily tentative but rather cautiously curious.]

A simple coin flip. You call heads or tails, and if it lands to your favor, you win my wager. Otherwise, I win yours.

[Gilgamesh appears tight-lipped on said wager, however. His long ears perk as he asks, with evident greed creeping into his tone:]

What would you consider "second finest"?