TEST DRIVE MEME #10

[abraxasmods]

Test Drive Meme

Welcome to the Test Drive Meme for Abraxas! This meme is run a little bit differently than most in that you'll be asked to choose one of the three different arrival scenarios below for your character to take. If you have any questions about this mechanic or anything else related to the TDM, please take a look at the questions below or ask one of your own under the Questions header below. For general game questions please still use the FAQ.

Below are some links to information you may find useful. Our Setting pages have information about the world itself as well as current events for each nation, while our Game History page outlines the game's story so far.

Setting | Game History | NPCs | Arcana
You can also find answers to questions asked on previous TDMs in their respective questions threads.

Summoning

You awaken suspended in the abyss, silent darkness stretching out in all directions. If you try to yell, you'll find that the sound doesn't carry. If you try to move, you'll find it's impossible to tell whether or not you're actually getting anywhere. If you reach for an item you were carrying last time you remember being awake, your hand will only touch bare skin.

You're naked and floating helplessly through the void, and what little air you have in your lungs is running out.

There's a pinprick of light that almost looks like a faraway star but as it grows it becomes clear that it's actually quite close. It's hard to make out any individual objects, as if you're looking from beneath rippling water.

A hand plunges through and you realize water is just what it is. Whether you take hold of the hand or not it will grab you and yank you up through the surface, lifting you out until you're sprawled on solid ground - still unclothed.

Arrival

You'll find yourself summoned to one of the following three major nations: the extravagant and magical Kingdom of Thorne, the bustling and advanced Free Cities, or the tightknit and faith-driven rural community of the Solvunn Commune.

If you had any powers, they feel unusually weak. Attempts to use magic or enhanced strength or powers of any sort fizzle out without any effect, but they don't feel completely gone, either. After a week or so, your abilities will return.

When you gather your bearings at last, you look up into a series of unfamiliar faces...and equally unfamiliar surroundings.

Welcome to Thorne

Set into an indent on a marble slab behind the fountain is a card bearing the image of one of the Arcana. An apprentice mage - the one whose hand lifted you out of the fountain - brushes the water off on their robes and runs back to join a group of three others, who all stare intently at another mage with highly decorated robes and a large, heavy book. The man peers up at you for a moment and starts flipping through the book.

"One moment," he says, not bothering to look up from the tome. He looks tired. "I am Ambrose Rhett, the High Mage of the Kingdom of Thorne. We’ll explain everything in a moment, but for now, please calm down. You’re completely fine."

Regardless of your response, he keeps flipping through the pages, until he stops on one specific passage, stares at it for a moment, and then nods, satisfied. "Excellent." He motions for one of the young apprentice mages over. "Settle our guest in, please. I don't have all day."

The apprentice hurries forward with a fine silk tunic, pants, and some basic sandals. With a wave of their hand, the clothes reshape to fit you perfectly. Once you're dressed, the apprentice leads you into the hallways of Castle Thorne, prattling on about the kingdom, names of royals and nobles, and, of course, the reason why you're here: the world itself is in great peril, and tales of your exploits have reached far and wide across universes. If asked about these exploits, the apprentice will simply smile and shrug. The High Mage was happy to see you and that's good enough.

◎ Surroundings

Castle Thorne is where not only royals and members of the court reside, but includes the surrounding city itself. With winter still here, the weather is frosty and in the distance, you can see snow-covered mountain peaks. Fortunately, the castle is enchanted to be at a comfortable temperature.

As you walk or look around, you take in some of what's going on around you:

• The East Wing where members of the royal family and court reside is tightly guarded. At this time, you won't be able to go here - and the guards take their job seriously. The dungeons are also well-guarded, and newcomers will be turned away. You might hear rumors that the cells beneath are beginning to fill up.


• Apprentices, kitchen staff, guards - everyone seems to be bustling and busy. The air is tense, and you hear chatter of crop shortages for winter and something about scorched farmlands in Nott, the lakeside city to the south. As a newcomer, you won't know any different when you visit the buffet table, but those who are familiar with the extravagance of Thorne might grumble about the lack of quality and choices in food. The food is still excellent. It was just apparently even better before.


• There's equally talk of the Free Cities among the common folk, dubious truths or not: magic will soon be outlawed there, their army has great metal machines, and dissenters are exiled into the desert where they're left to perish. Attitudes range from wary to dismissive to disdainful depending on who you talk to.


• Despite the troubles that continue to plague Nott, life in the Castle is less touched by those difficulties. There's also plenty of chatter about the giant ocean life that found itself onto the shores of Borrel, Thorne's military city. Borrel is not accessible at this time - but perhaps some of the older Summoned can tell you of their visit.

◎ Exploring

Despite the troubles that plague the land, Castle Thorne and its surrounding city have much for you to indulge in.

Trail Riding
Thorne has beautiful trails for riding and many horses of fine noble stock. Each horse is well-groomed and well-trained. No matter your skill level, the stablehand will help you find a horse. There are a few trails that take you around the castle city, ranging between an hour to a half-day's ride with a stop for a packed lunch and to enjoy the view: beautiful snowy mountains rise in the distance, lush gardens with glowing ponds make for great resting spots, the city has several taverns and bookshops, and of course what would Thorne be without its potion shops? Take a friend if you wish to see the sights with some company. Or maybe you run into a new face while riding? Be sure to return the horses in proper condition! One or two trails are unfortunately closed due to soldiers on patrol, a reminder that all is not well despite the idyllic scenery.

Magic Lessons
Regular magic lessons are held by apprentice mages as part of their training, usually involving learning to cast a small spell. These classes are for the natives of Thorne, but you're welcome to join if you wish. The spell they will be teaching is conjuring a white ball of light that will illuminate the space around you for about an hour. It functions much like a candle, but without the risk of fire. The spell relies on Academic Magic which involves a few words said correctly. You'll likely need a few lessons to grasp it unless you're well-versed in magic already. In the meantime, the class of fresh-faced students means there's a constant bright explosion of light coming from the practice room as the spells fail. It isn't dangerous, but it can be annoying.

Evening Banquet
To improve morale, Thorne has pledged to hold a banquet now and again. One of these will take place as the new arrivals come through, and you're free to join at your leisure. If you don't have the appropriate clothes, you can ask one of the mages to conjure you an outfit or approach one of the existing Summoned to help you dress. The banquet is not overly extravagant, but it is a nice party with fine food, wine, and music that seems to come from nowhere. If you're here to make friends (or enemies), this is a good place to start.

Nocwich
Nocwich, which is shrouded in an eternal darkness and is home to the werewolves and the vampires, opens on the first weekend of every month for a total of 3 days. Shortly after arriving, you'll be given a pendant that allows you to travel to and from the portal. In Castle Thorne, the portal is a short walk around the back of the castle. You can enter Nocwich freely and explore what's available in Oleuni Square and Luna. You won't be able to enter Ikorr nor will you be able to exit into another faction's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other factions, take in the sights, and - if you've come by some money or a generous soul - even make a few small purchases. Inns are available for a fee if you want to stay overnight. Otherwise, you'll need to return home through the portals each day.

◎ Settling In

When you're ready to rest, you're shown to the North Wing, which has been set up as living quarters for you and your fellow newcomers. There are four people to a room, but each generously-sized bed has opaque curtains that can be drawn around it. You can meet your roommates here and discuss your shared situation (those who were previously brought in may have a great deal of information to tell you).

Although you can leave the castle, you can't leave its surrounding city with the exception of entering Nott via portal in order to assist with rebuilding or visiting Nocwich. Borders are especially well-guarded right now due to the recent attacks. Besides, Castle Thorne gives you everything you need: fine clothes, great food and wine, massive libraries, and all the magic and knowledge you could want. Isn't that plenty? You won't be given money as you're provided for, so if you want to do some personal spending later, you'll have to find a job in the city on your own.

Welcome to the Free Cities

Dry warmth hits you at once as you're set on a hard floor of dull ruddy stone. Men and women in unfamiliar uniforms of brown and red leather stand in a semi-circle around a small pool of water - the very pool you were just pulled from. The water is still now, rimmed in pale gold tiles with odd symbols etched into them. Across it is a raised pedestal with a card bearing an Arcana symbol.

A guard covers you with a simple robe and returns to their place in the semi-circle. Before you stands another woman, dressed in a more elaborate and decorated uniform than the others. A sword rests at her hip. She carries an air of authority as she approaches you with a nod and a warm smile. "Sorry about the circumstances. Take a minute, catch your breath. I'm Prime Minister Marlo Reiner and you're in The Free Cities. That nice lady over there will explain everything to you and get you settled."

A robed mage off to the side approaches to help you up. She brings you out of the cave through a corridor that angles upwards until you emerge in what looks like some kind of storage facility. You'll learn you're in the Cadens Desert Outpost 003, a military base on the outskirts of the major city of Cadens. You're told the world is in delicate and dangerous times, and you're needed to help. You're important and they're very grateful you're here.

◎ Surroundings

While you're currently at the outpost just outside of the city proper, Cadens on the whole is a large bustling city. Temperatures have cooled but the climate remains hot and dry - during the day, at least. At night, they'll plunge to near freezing. Look to the west and you'll see a long stretch of desert wasteland. This is the infamous Badlands. The soldiers don't recommend going out there unprepared - you're likely to face a slow death to the elements or be eaten. Reaching Cadens is possible by wagon, a trip of about 2 hours each way. You're asked to return by sundown for your own safety... but no one will chase after you if you don't.

You'll be given a military style uniform with your Arcana stitched on it where a formal rank would normally be. As you walk or look around, you take in some of what's going on around you:

• Though Libertas is steadily rebuilding, the chaos that resulted from it and the refugees that have poured into Cadens are still causing difficulties. There might be tensions in the air between citizens - though there's also plenty of chatter about the giant ocean life that found itself onto the shores of Aquila, a neighboring city.


• Among the soldiers, anti-Thorne sentiments are high. Thorne seemingly destroyed one of their cities on a whim, civilians and all. Rumors abound, true or not: Thorne is run by a Mad Queen, dissenters are fed to the frost wurms in the mountains, and some of their mages perform gruesome blood rites. Nonetheless, many also aren't eager for war. They worry for their comrades and friends.


• Cadens itself is even more chaotic and crowded than usual. Refugees from Libertas are now in Cadens, seeking temporary shelter and struggling to rebuild their lives. Discontent can be felt around rising food prices due to shortages. The shelves of some shops are emptier than usual and not everything can be readily found.


• A particular inn and tavern stands in Cadens - The Sarstina - where natives say the Summoned are frequently found. They might point you there if you're looking for one of your own.

◎ Exploring

Despite the troubles that plague the land, the barracks and Cadens have much for you to indulge in.

Training Grounds
Non-lethal training weapons and obstacle courses are set up for anyone to use. The soldiers will be watching, and if you catch their attention they might approach you and encourage you to enlist. You're free to invite other new arrivals to spar, but be sure to keep things friendly and avoid trouble. Discipline is key in the barracks. If you're especially competitive, the soldiers will sometimes hold impromptu obstacle races with informal wagers made. They'll be happy to race against even the most unlikely of opponents, and you'll be judged more on your spirit rather than your skill. If you really impress them, they'll even buy you a drink.

Traveling Merchants
Word of new arrivals spread quickly to enterprising merchants. Many will arrive with samples of their wares, offering free things to try. These items include miniature pastries, trinkets powered by New Magic similar to those cheap flashing toys one find at a carnival, ales, fresh fruits, and healing elixirs. Not all of the elixirs are of proper quality. Some are akin to snake oil and might have adverse (though harmless) effects - take care not to accidentally turn your hair bright green or similar. All of the merchants will be gathered at a central point in the barracks so they'll be hard to miss. Maybe you can make a friend or two while perusing.

City Tours
The arrival of refugees from Libertas means tour groups have sprung up around Cadens to show these new folks around. Organized for free by volunteers, these tours are meant to help the refugees feel welcome and take their minds off the loss of their homes but anyone can join in on the walk. The tour will take you to one or more of the following places: the Hall of Natural Relics where you can look at the skeletal remains of various desert beasts, Portam Hall where you can observe the chaotic government bureaucracy of a large city (and the beautiful architecture), backstage of the Catterborough Theater ("The Cat") where you can meet some of the theater performers, and the Academy of Knowledge where you can attend one of its free public seminars (the topic of the month is on the various types of spiderwebs that can be found in nature. Exciting!)

Nocwich
Nocwich, which is shrouded in an eternal darkness and is home to the werewolves and the vampires, opens on the first weekend of every month for a total of 3 days. Shortly after arriving, you'll be given a pendant that allows you to travel to and from the portal. In Cadens, the portal is a short walk away from the center of the city. You can enter Nocwich freely and explore what's available in Oleuni Square and Luna. You won't be able to enter Ikorr nor will you be able to exit into another faction's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other factions, take in the sights, and - if you've come by some money or a generous soul - even make a few small purchases. Inns are available for a fee if you want to stay overnight. Otherwise, you'll need to return home through the portals each day.

◎ Settling In

When you're ready to turn in, the barracks are waiting for you. They have a communal bathing room at the end of the hall, with curtains that can be pulled around the individual raised round tubs for privacy. Each barracks room is rather sparse. Six simple beds set against the wall, three on each side of the room, each with a trunk at the foot of it. You can greet your roommates here, most of whom will be new arrivals, as well.

If you plan on making use of your assigned quarters, you'll have your basic needs met: uniforms, a roof, bland food from the mess hall, and access to the training grounds. You won't be paid unless you formally enlist with the army. The longer you take advantage of the barracks, the greater the pressure to enlist. Some soldiers will start to see you as a freeloader if you refuse to join them yet continue to use their resources. If you're set on not enlisting, you can always strike out on your own in Cadens - but you won't be provided for and handouts are rare. You'll have to work to earn every copper and loaf of bread. Whether that's honest work is up to you.

Welcome to Solvunn

You're in a grassy clearing in the midst of a circle of large stone slabs stacked to look like doorways. In the middle is the same glimmering pool you were just pulled from. An elderly mage stands before an ornate altar. He holds an old leather-bound book in one hand and in the other is a card bearing an arcana symbol. "I detect no ill will from the gods," he says. "It seems we've been blessed with success."

Those that had gathered all breathe a sigh of relief and now seem pleased. One offers you some clothes of leather and knitted wool that seem to fit you perfectly. A rough-looking man steps forward once you're dressed and motions with his head outside of the stone circle. His speech is informal, his consonants harsh.

"Hold your horses, I can see all those questions coming about! Rowan March, at your service. I'm one of the council members of Solvunn. There's a lot to discuss, but it's best talked about over a hot meal." He leads you to a horse-drawn carriage and helps you up into the back. He talks the entire ride to the center of the Primary Settlement. You're told that the world hangs upon the brink of disaster and that there are those in this world that are happy to see it fall to ruin with their meddling.

You're important. The gods have graced them with your presence. They're delighted you're here.

◎ Surroundings

The Primary Settlement is full of greenery, blessed with the fresh ocean breeze. Winds are moderately chilly with the occasional heavy rains that soak the farmlands. The scent of flowers fills the air. The shops, farms, and homes around you are all modest and unassuming. You get the sense that the people here prefer to blend in with their neighbors than stand out.

As you walk or look around, you'll be greeted warmly, even eagerly...though there's an edge of awestruck nervousness to some. Though the settlement is often quiet and calm, there's still plenty to take in:

• While farmers are still recovering from events that led to failed crops, ruined livestock, and a massive loss in fishing, life is slowly returning to normal. They'll be happy to receive any assistance: brush the horses, milk the goats, weed the gardens, churn butter, mind the children...whatever you can think of, you'll be needed.


• Those in Solvunn are reluctant to speak of the conflict between Thorne and the Free Cities in any depth. Their stance is that Solvunn is above petty grudges and violence. They are sorry for the loss of innocents in both nations.


• There are whispers of a shrine deep in the woods that took a powerful sacrifice. If asked, the natives will say that they do not know where this shrine is and that it's best to leave these matters in the hands of the gods' chosen, the Council.


• You're free to venture towards the ocean if you like, though heed the warnings of leviathans. These beasts do not stir near the shores, but if you look closely in the far distance - at night in particular - you'll see the water's surface bubble and roil beneath the moonlight. Recently, a giant ocean life found itself onto the shores in Solvunn. Many will tell you this was a test from the gods, and that saving these creatures granted the world a boon of fish.

◎ Exploring

Despite the troubles that plague the land, the commune and its settlements have much for you to indulge in.

Goat Racing
That's right. One of Solvunn's fine traditions is its regular goat races. Meant to be a bit of informal fun, there's a pen of goats where you can choose a goat, get a number, and simply join one of the starting lines. These goats are not trained so the race is less of a race and more pure chaos as the goats do what they please. Whoever eventually wrangles their goat over the finish line wins. The only rule is that you can't pick up or physically pull your goat, but you're free to cajole, lure, or even use a bit of magic to get yours to the finish line first. Winners receive small prizes of cheese, ale, wood charms, woven baskets, and other similar tokens.

Shrine Offerings
As a new arrival, you'll be encouraged to perform your first offering. This can be anything that feels right to you: fruit, wine, flowers, even an animal you've hunted. Whatever you choose, it must be retrieved by your own hand meaning you must pick the fruit, cut the flowers, or pour the wine yourself. You can travel to the shrine by yourself or with a companion. Once there, lay your offering and ask for a blessing through Solvunn's tradition of High Magic. Blessings are often made for the commune overall such as abundant crops or good weather. You will not see the effects right away, but you may find over the next day or so that the sun has cut through the rain. Of course, you're free to dismiss this as the nature of how weather works...but don't be too loud about it. Solvunn takes its beliefs very seriously.

Evening Feast
Potluck-style feasts are common in the settlement as a way to strengthen the community. You'll be invited to join in one of these feasts at any time, held outdoors in a lush grove filled with wildflowers. As a new arrival, you won't be expected to bring anything yourself but you'll make a better impression if you do so even if it's merely a few apples you picked in the morning. Want to help hang decorations before the feast? Your assistance is more than welcome! Place flowers, pin ribbons, or lay the tablecloths. The food is simple and hearty, ranging from stews, roasts, fresh bread, and puddings. If you're shy, someone will be there to fill your cups and plates if you won't do so yourself. Eat, drink, and be merry - it's what the gods would want.

Nocwich
Nocwich, which is shrouded in an eternal darkness and is home to the werewolves and the vampires, opens on the first weekend of every month for a total of 3 days. Shortly after arriving, you'll be given a pendant that allows you to travel to and from the portal. In Solvunn, the portal is a short walk away. You can enter Nocwich freely and explore what's available in Oleuni Square and Luna. You won't be able to enter Ikorr nor will you be able to exit into another faction's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other factions, take in the sights, and - if you've come by some money or a generous soul - even make a few small purchases. Inns are available for a fee if you want to stay overnight. Otherwise, you'll need to return home through the portals each day.

◎ Settling In

When you're ready for your bed, you're brought to the center of town and escorted to an apartment above one of the establishments in town. The living conditions are temporary if you'd like them to be: the local families would also be happy to host you in their home. In return, you'll be expected to contribute to their household, taking upon daily chores and repairs. While money has its uses, many establishments and craftsmen are happy to barter with your time or skill for their goods. You'll find your willingness to trade and your friendliness with the natives more valuable than gold.

You can even leave for the other two settlements if you like, but you're encouraged to remain in the Primary Settlement. Just be sure you have an invitation to the Secondary Settlement. There are tales of travelers visiting the secondary settlement without invitation disappearing without a trace. The gods are as hungry as they are protective.

Questions and Answers

If after reading these you're still unsure about anything, or your question wasn't covered, please feel free to hit up our Questions thread below!

How many slots are open?

Please check the Taken page for how many player, franchise, and canon slots are available. Activity check will be processed before applications open, so the count may change between now and then. Existing players can apply for a second character without restriction.

How do I choose a scenario for my character?

Pick whichever situation appeals to you most. Which faction your character is drawn into has nothing to do with their personal morality, beliefs, or how highly they regard themselves and their own accomplishments. Anyone can be put into any one of the situations.

What happens if my character refuses to comply with the NPCs?

They will be forgiven for their moment of panic or anger if they have one, and the faction leaders will try to calm them and persuade them further. If they put up too much of a fight and/or start actively attacking anyone, they will be warned once that everyone is willing to put them back in the well where they came from (see below), and if they continue to fight they will make good on that promise.

My character intends on causing a lot of trouble (destroying parts of the cities, murdering the NPCs, etc.), what would happen to them?

Characters who make too much trouble for the mages and other NPCs would be thrown back in the well (which will mean drowning in the void, not returning home). Brawling with other PCs and causing minor damage is fine and will be greeted with a cranky attitude and intervention from various NPC guards, and there will be plenty of opportunity for destruction and murder later, but for now the Abraxans have no desire to keep huge liabilities around.

Is the power loss for characters permanent?

No, but it does take a week or so for their powers to be back in full, and certain powers (determined on a case-by-case basis) may require nerfs. If your character has world-breaking powers, please discuss with the mods what modifications may be necessary.

Can my character leave the bounds of the nation?

In Thorne, characters can leave the castle but not the city. In the Free Cities, they can take a trip from the outpost to the nearest main city, Cadens. In Solvunn, they can explore the entirety of the Primary Settlement.

Can my character eventually change nations or kingdoms?

Yes, but tensions between the major nations are at an all-time high. Doing so is possible, but will require some plotting and discussion with the mods once you're in-game!

How much will my choice of scenario affect my character's plot later on?

This choice will determine where your character initially lives as well as the bias of the information they receive from NPCs (although other PCs can and most likely will give it to them a bit more straight). It will also affect your character's day-to-day life and development. Characters who seek technological advancements or combat will find more of it in the Free Cities while those keen on court politics and learning magic will have the most access to it in Thorne. Anyone who wishes to uncover the secrets of the Old Gods and forest mysteries will best do so in Solvunn.

This is not to say characters can't do these things from another faction - with effort and the help of friends, anything is possible! Don't get too anxious about your choice. This is just one of many, and every character in each scenario can work their way towards many individual goals and outcomes. Additionally, once in-game the Horizon will provide characters with a way to easily find cross-faction CR.

Are TDM threads mandatory for my application?

No, you may use other samples, but we encourage you to post to the TDM and get a feel for this game and its mechanics before you join. If you do not have a TDM thread you will still need to choose one of the three scenarios on your application.

What if I haven't settled on a sign yet?

Your Arcana sign won't have an immediate impact on your character beyond them seeing it on themselves or being told what it is by the locals. You're welcome to disregard those aspects in your prompts or try out different signs.

Can my character go to the Horizon?

First time visitors to the Horizon must be taken there by other characters, through either shared meditation or a physical journey to the Singularity, and all first-timers experience memory loss. For the purposes of the TDM, we suggest against using the Horizon.

If you're interested in threading with characters outside your borders on the TDM, you can utilize the Nocwich prompt which will allow all characters to meet in person regardless of arrival scenario.

What about making use of the network?

Much like Horizon they would need to be introduced to it by another PC, as no NPCs would be aware of the network or be able to access it. Because of this, we would advise against using this mechanic for TDM top-levels.

Can I try out more than one arrival scenario on the same TDM?

Yes, although only threads taking place in the arrival scenario you formally choose upon applying can count as canon. However, you're welcome to try out as many as you like on the TDM.

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Comments

Hornet | Hollow Knight | Strength

[weavered]

THORNE

EVENING BANQUET

Of the many things she has done, asking for a new change of clothing from the staff has certainly been the most interesting. She was now in a short scarlet dress that sits at her knees - something much more freeing than the trousers she had been given earlier in the day. It covers her body in much the same way her cloak did, the exception being that it sat across her shoulders and revealed her neck, leaving her more exposed than she liked. It was a simple thing, compared to some of the creatures around her, but it was good enough to gain her entry into the hall. She stands on the far side of the room, closest to the wall, watching the soft-shelled creatures gather their own food and talk amongst themselves.

If they were eating, why couldn't she?

Hornet sighs heavily, smoothing out her dress as she finds herself lost in thought. She arrived with nothing: no clothing nor needle, but she had her mind. The thought of losing that much made her shudder, drawing in on herself as she shrinks back to lean against the wall. What questions should she ask? What answers would they provide? If the strange bugs here could assist her... then she'd feel much better than she did right now.

She shakes her head, letting her thoughts come to the current issue at hand: Was the food safe? Would she perish if she ate it? Certainly, she would die if she didn't eat, and despite watching for some time, she still wasn't sure.

"Do you think it's safe?" She finds herself asking aloud, glancing toward the nearest person. She was no coward, but she was a cautious thing. "Have you eaten anything yourself?"

FREE CITIES

TRAVELING MERCHANTS

She remains wary as she walks through the throngs of people, glancing at the merchants and their wares. Pastries, fruit, flashing trinkets that don't need lumaflies to light them  - it was dazzling as it was worrisome. She wasn't certain if she could trust what they sold. The food? Perhaps. The trinkets? Maybe. It was those selling what they called a "healing elixir" that had her skeptical. How could liquid heal a person? She knew of the utilization of Soul had its healing effects, but something akin to water? It sounded suspicious.

She stops to inspect the trinkets in one cart, looking at rings, necklaces, and things of that sort when her eyes catch one of the "healing elixirs" sitting in a nice collection on the edge of the cart. The glass containers they were in were beautiful, certainly more intricate than those she had seen before. She reaches for one, thankful it was so close so she didn't have to stop the merchant from his current conversation, and turns the bottle over in her hands.

"Does it work....?" She says mostly to herself, inspecting the bottle closely. Could something like this actually heal her? Would she need healing in this sort of place? What dangers lie ahead that she would require an elixir of healing?

NOCWICH

 HOT SPRINGS

Hornet eases herself into the water slowly, enjoying the heat that spreads through her limbs as she settles in. This? This was the most relaxed she had been since her arrival to this strange land. It was like the heated water was pulling away her worries, giving her time to sit and enjoy soaking in the water.  She does not mind that she is sharing the spring with other bugs (well, they weren't bugs no were they? Strange soft-shelled creatures).

She stretches her arms, settling into the water, mostly keeping to herself, but burning with a need to ask questions to whoever might listen and answer. Maybe the warm and welcoming nature of a hot spring might loosen some tongues.

"May I ask you a question?" She asks whoever is closest to her. Hopefully whoever answers her would be receptive to a question or two.

Evening Banquet

[ushiri]

( ooc: heya! just wanted to double check on her physical description - how tall/short would you say she is? also anything I should know about her skin that's peeking out from her cloak, or any other non-human specific details? thanks! )

I've been here for months, and have yet to get food poisoning.

[ He has a glass of water in his hand, as well as a plate that has some greens, nuts, dried fruits and some slices of meat. Kahlil stands a little over six feet, dressed in the native clothing like everyone else. The only thing that stands out is the the light, faded scars across his hands.

He smiles at her, nodding at his plate. ]

You could try some of mine first, if you like.

[ He'd been suspicious of everything when he arrived, too. ]

[weavered]

(ooc: Hornet is taller than the player character but shorter than the final boss of the game, so I am putting her at around the height of a tall child for the sake of being surrounded by humans so like 3.5-4 feet? Her skin is black like a void, and mostly her arms and legs would be noticeable. There is also the white-horned shell she has as her head. She's a bug (technically a spider) so please enjoy.)

[She eyes him warily, looking up at him, both cautious and curious about his friendly nature. He has admitted that he's been eating the food for months, and as far as she's aware, has not suffered ill effects. Hornet shifts on her feet, considering his offer before she reaches out and grabs some of the dried fruits. These were familiar at least compared to the meat. He was offering and while she has no reason to trust him, she needed an ally, someone to provide her the information she lacked.]

Thank you. [She nods, unfamiliar with the kindness he's displaying, but grateful all the same.]

You've been here for months? [She asks, still holing the fruit in her hands.] What can you tell me?

[ushiri]

( ooc: Awesome, ty! Also I spaced and automatically responded in brackets, if you prefer prose I can switch back to that! )

[ He's glad that she seems willing to take some food, leaning down a bit to better meet her at her level. He can't help wondering what's beneath her mask - in spite of her small stature she stands out amongst all the other Summoned.

So would Rousma, if she were alive and here with him. ]

I've been here since the end of the summer. [ He hums, glancing from one full hand to the other. ] Would you like to sit down at a table? Then we can both eat while I try to answer your questions.

[weavered]

(ooc: no problem! And don't worry. I am happy to match brackets or prose.)

Since the end of summer? [She's not familiar with that word, summer. There is no reference to the frame of time for her, but it didn't seem too long, while also being long enough. She would need to ask about the time of when this summer ended and where this time frame began. She glances between him and the food in her hands, then nods.]

Yes, that would be preferred.

[She would ask about how long that actually was once they had found themselves a table.]

[ushiri]

[ He hears the question in her voice and readily supplies the answer: ]

Almost six months. [ Kahlil leads them toward some empty seats at the end of a long table made of dark, fine wood. He sets his plate between them, so that she might take some more food if she likes. There's utensils at each place setting, and he pokes his fork into a slice of turkey meat. ]

Some have been here much longer, over a year.

[weavered]

[Six months was an interesting length of time. Not quite a year, but long enough to learn something about this strange place. She takes a seat, legs hanging off the edge of the chair. She sets the food in her hands on the table, poking at the dried fruit as she contemplates actually eating. Some have been here over a year, which begs to wonder: why they have all been brought here?]

What can you tell me about this place? They have provided me with cloth to wear and a bed to sleep, but why am I here?

[Did anyone of the Summoned know why they were there?]

[ushiri]

That is a question we're all still wondering.

[ He shakes his head. He can't tell her much more than she's already heard from the High Mage on that topic: the world itself is in great peril, and tales of your exploits have reached far and wide across universes. ]

This country, Thorne, is in conflict with another: the Free Cities. A third faction, Solvunn, has taken a more neutral position. But all three wish to control a territory that holds a powerful relic, the Singularity.

[weavered]

I see.

[Nothing she doesn't already know in regard to her arrival. So the question will remain unanswered. She will start with gathering information then.]

Why is Thorne in Conflict with the Free Cities? [Would that explain some of the things shes heard about the food shortage?] And what is the Singularity?

Does anyone know what it is?

[ushiri]

It's a long story. I can point you toward some books in the library, if you're curious. But most recently, Thorne blames the Free Cities for an attack that killed one of the Queen's mages.

[ Blames, but doesn't have the most convincing proof. Especially when blaming them gave the Queen a convenient excuse to ramp up war efforts. ]

Thankfully, there were some recent negotiations, and things have settled down for the moment.

[ A respite, for however long it lasts. As for her next questions. ]

The Singularity is connected to the magic of this world. There's a man here named Istredd, another of us Summoned. He can probably tell you more.

[ He's not trying to pass her off to someone else because he doesn't want to answer. It's just likely Istredd would have better answers. ]

[weavered]

That would be cause for conflict should it be true. [She states simply.] I would like to see these books.

[Though hearing that there have been negotiations to settle things down has her sighing in relief. She did not wish to be dragged into a war - especially without a weapon. That would be one of the many things she does once she gets her feet wet so to say.]

Magic. [It's not a question, but not quite a statement. She repeats the word back with some caution in her voice.] I will seek out Istredd then. I hope he does not mind discussing it.

[She know of magic - Soul as it were. How it's utilized, and what it can do. She's seen how it corrupts as well, so she's rightfully wary of the subject. But if this relic was so important... she must learn more about it.]

Magic is common I take it?

[ushiri]

[ He can show her the library then - after they finish eating. He skewers another slice of turkey meat with his fork as if to emphasize, then nods again. Magic is one of the things Istredd very much loves to talk about, so she doesn't have to worry there. ]

In Thorne magic in very common. Once you get a better look around the castle and the city, you'll see.

[ It had been a shock to him, given where he came from. Not so much for others, though. He raises an eyebrow. ]

What is your world like?

[weavered]

The cost must not be too great if it is. [Magic comes with a cost of some sort. One she will need to consider should she find a way to thrive in this world. She will need to explore more, see the city, and learn the castle halls -- much like she did with the White Palace in its heyday.]

My world? [What is there to say about Hallownest?] Broken, but hopefully it will recover given time. Time is all we have now. [And that's all she will say. For now, that is. Perhaps if she learns more about him, and learns to trust him, she could tell more of the tale of the fall of Hallownest.] And yours?

[There is a pause, before she tilts her head, watching him carefully.] You never told me what I may call you.

hot springs

[theidlemaiden]

Hilda had skipped the hot spring visit the first time around to Nocwich. While it had seemed appealing and she wasn't necessarily shy about her body, being naked in public wasn't something she was used to. The sauna at Garreg Mach had at least given people the best of both worlds - clothed or partially so - but a sauna was different in the sense that you weren't submerging yourself in water.

But when in Nocwich, she supposed.

She's been there for a little while longer than Hornet, long since over the modesty that she had previously had before entering. Apparently it had all washed away thanks to the hot springs. Her hair is bundled atop her head in an artful knot to avoid getting it wet and her eyes are blissfully closed when she hears a voice through the light steam. When Hilda does place the voice, she's met with...well she isn't sure what she's met with. There's a curious spark to her gaze but she's still friendly and offers her a smile.

"Of course - I love answering questions just as much I enjoy asking them."

[weavered]

"It is appreciated."

She glances at her hands beneath the water, before she glances back up at the young woman and tilts her head. She seemed much more relaxed than she would have anticipated - perhaps it was the soothing warm waters of the spring. The springs always seemed to loosen tongues and ease burdens back in Hallownest.

"I'm afraid I don't know much about this place. Why does this place only open its borders for a short amount of time?"

It seems silly to only open borders for a limited time when commerce should be encouraged. Was it a neutral area for those to meet? What political machinations are in place for us a thing to occur? Perhaps it was to discourage intrigue, but she could not tell. There was more to this than she knew and she loathed that aspect of being newly summoned.

[theidlemaiden]

Ah well, not all questions could be fun questions. But in the grand scheme of things, it was a question that made a lot of sense for someone who was probably newly arrived. Unfortunately, Hilda had really only been half listening when Claude had gone on a tangent to explain the particular why's and what's of the new world they were suddenly in.

The last thing Hilda wants to do is let someone down and now that she's really concentrating on it, apparently Claude's nattering had seeped into her brain more than she thought it had. "They only recently opened this part of Nocwich up to us. Apparently it wasn't like that for months so the Summoned here didn't have as much freedom to visit other places physically. It's meant to be a neutral territory, so I suspect it has something to do with that too."

And then, realizing where they are, she shifts a little closer towards Hornet in the hopes that her voice won't carry as far to the ears of the others who may be listening to them. "Being Summoned also means they probably don't want us getting any ideas about relocating here or liking it too much. It sounds like more trouble than the locals here want."

[weavered]

"I see."

She could understand opening up a neutral territory for a few days, allowing those from the other factions to meet and exchange information, or barter with each other. Or perhaps it was also to allow Nocwich's economy to thrive with new business. She watches carefully as Hilda moves closer, and does her best not to move away. This woman offered to answer her questions - hopefully, this means she will be another person to learn to trust.

"Do the locals not like the Summoned or simply like their solitude?"

[theidlemaiden]

"I can't say for the Nocwich locals."

They all seemed friendly and welcoming enough when she had come through the portals. That only seemed solidified after the time they had spent on the boat for the negotiations. "It might be a bit of both. They're all really friendly as long as you don't go trying to cause trouble, but that's like anyone." It didn't really matter to Hilda whether or not they had fangs, claws, or fur so long as they treated everyone else with respect.

She frowns a little bit. "Although I can't say the same for some people in Cadens. Some of them have been on edge. Where did you end up being pulled into, by the way?"

[weavered]

"Hopefully their hospitality is not short-lived."

And hopefully, no one was dumb enough to infuriate the people of Nocwich. She eases into the water, grateful that her companion was so amenable to her questions. She brings her legs to her chest, trying to think of more questions to ask, though her most burning one was...well. What was she?

Before she could ask, she's pulled back into the conversation.

"I have been brought to the kingdom of Thorne." She tilts her head. "It's nothing like I have seen."

It reminded her much of the sprawling kingdom of Hallownest, but that's where the similarities end.

[theidlemaiden]

"I couldn't agree more." Of course it goes unsaid that Hilda definitely wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of an angry vampire or werewolf, but then again, she doesn't really enjoy being on the receiving end of anyone's anger. "But also being stuck in one place for an extended period of time without being able to explore isn't really my idea of how I'd like to spend time in a new world."

Her statement is made even more true when she hears that her hot spring companion is situated in Thorne. But then something else apart from being discouraged to leave Thorne crosses her mind. It's hard to ignore what Hornet looks like having never encountered someone like her before. Hilda's mind wanders back to the brief conversation she had with Elrond, about how some residents in Thorne had commented about his ears - and she can't help but worry. Size isn't any indication of prowess, but some people didn't have thick skin. "Have they been welcoming so far? I mean, I'd hope so considering they Summoned you there."

[weavered]

"Welcoming, yes. Though they remain aloof." She admits carefully. "I am unsure if it's because of what I am compared to...well yourself, or if it's how they treat all those Summoned."

She does not mind their aloof nature, it gives her an advantage as they would certainly dismiss her or underestimate her. Perhaps it would make listening for information easier, but she cannot be too overconfident. There was much she did not know and much she still needs to learn. It will take time, and she's not entirely sure how much time she has.

"You mentioned being stuck in a single place. Is the only convergence between the kingdom and Cadens, Nocwich?" She knew things were...strained between the kingdom and the world based on what she's overheard so far. "Why would they not want to encourage travel between the Summoned?"

Perhaps it had to do with the Singularity. If that were the case she would need to find this Istredd gentleman and ask him questions - hopefully at little to no cost.

[theidlemaiden]

Asking people who were very obviously not human what their people were called instead was something that Hilda had really only started to get accustomed to doing meaning that she wasn't comfortable with it yet by any stretch of the word. There's a bit of relief when Hornet calls attention to it herself. Comfortingly, she tries to reassure her. "I think I'd be a little wary of anyone being pulled into my world that weren't here before regardless of whether or not they were human."

Before she can pluck up the nerve to ask that though, Hornet poses another question. "There's also Solvunn. I don't know much about it either but I have some friends there. From what I understand there's a lot of goats and reverence to the gods there. As to why they don't want us traveling between us..." Hilda's voice trails off, realizing that talking like that out in the open probably wasn't the wisest.

She doubts that the locals in Nocwich cared very much about the larger politics between the other settlements, but you could never be sure or too careful. If the Summoned could eavesdrop, so could the locals. Her voice lowers slightly. "Each faction wants some kind of control over the Singularity. I guess they're hoping that we're here to help them achieve whatever it is they want to do with it."

[weavered]

"I do not doubt that may be the case." She says with a nod.

She notates the use of the word human. So the strange, tall creatures that walked around her were human, but not all were, which means she may not be alone in that regard. Though she has not seen another bug, she was grateful all the same for the prospect of this revelation. She glances around them, realizing that talking about such things in the spring may not be the most ideal. Who knows what the locals think of their conversation. Hopefully, they were still alone.

"Ah, I have heard about this." She lowers her voice as well. "I will need to focus my attention on learning more about it."

She pauses before she tilts her head.

"Thank you, for being so willing to answer my questions. I have asked many and those who have responded have been kind to do so." She's genuine in this regard. Kindness has been lost on her for so long that it's a rather foreign concept. "My name is Hornet."

It would only serve her well to make allies with those in other factions. Giving her name was the rational next step of this conversation. She would do well to try and be polite, and not act rashly.

[theidlemaiden]

"I'm not the person to ask about the Singularity because that's about as much as I know," she admits with a mildly sheepish laugh. "But I think there are some really smart people in Thorne who might know more." As far as she was concerned it was a magical rock that was causing more fuss about than necessary. After all, it was the whole reason they had been pulled into this world.

Her smile is kind as she nods, glad that she could have been some help to Hornet. "I'm Hilda, it's nice to meet you, Hornet." And then she remembers the question she'd had while Hornet had been asking hers. There's a brief pause before she presses on through the slight embarrassment she feels because she knows she means it with good and curious intent. "I hope you don't mind me asking, but what would you call your people back home?"

[weavered]

"I appreciate what you know. It is certainly more than what I know." Though she wishes to change that soon. If this meant speaking to the one called Istredd then that's what she would do. The fact that this relic was the reason they were pulled into this world has her curious. What more could she learn?

Ah. It makes sense that she would ask what her people would be called compared to her. Hilda was kind to answer her questions, so she may as well answer hers. She glances at her hands in the water considering how to begin before she nods.

"We are all bugs, though I hail from Deepnest. My mother was the queen of the Weavers." Or at least the ones that reside in Deepnest. It was difficult to talk about her parentage, considering for a moment if she should speak of her father.