I had the wrong server when I got the password error. It does take a
password, just not any other commands I've found:
bcw@lenotv2:/mystic$ ftp localhost
Connected to localhost.
220- *** Mystic Alpha6 test ftp ***
220
Name (localhost:bcw): bcw142
331 User name okay, need password.
Password:
230 User logged in, proceed.
Remote system type is UNIX.
Using binary mode to transfer files.

ls

502 Command not implemented.
ftp: bind: Address already in use

dir

502 Command not implemented.

list

?Invalid command

cd

(remote-directory) fsx_node
421 Service not available, remote server has closed connection


--- Mystic BBS v1.12 A36 2017/11/15 (Linux/64)
* Origin: Workpoint (21:1/145.3)