TEST DRIVE MEME #11

[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.

Reminder that the TDM is forward-dated to when the summonings occur in-game, at the start of April. For current players, this means all of the Summoned will have been rescued and recently returned home to their respective factions.

For prospective players, there's no need to familiarize yourself with the recent event, but prompts in the TDM may reflect the aftermath.

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. Now in spring, the weather mild and cool. In the distance, you can see snow-covered mountain peaks that are beginning to melt, and the gardens are in bloom. 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 North Wing, devoted to housing the Summoned, is tightly guarded against outsiders. As one of the Summoned, you're free to come and go. The guards aren't keeping anyone prisoner. They're there to protect you, and they take their jobs seriously.


• Apprentices, kitchen staff, guards - everyone seems to be bustling and busy. The air is tense, and you hear chatter of abductions and mutated victims who were only just recovered a week ago.


• The infirmary is full. Healers are in high demand. Normally, Thorne's staff put effort into welcoming new arrivals. This time, they're focused on what seems to be an influx of the wounded - including other Summoned who arrived before you.


• Despite the troubles, life in the Castle is beginning to resume. Still, you can sense that a major crisis has only just been resolved, and much of the fallout remains.

◎ Exploring

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

Care Packages
Castle staff are putting together care packages consisting of flowers, hot meals, and draughts to manage pain. Gather flowers from one of Thorne's many beautiful gardens. The gardeners will direct you if you ask, though you're welcome to gather anything that catches your eye. There's no magic in the flowers beyond their ability to brighten up someone's day.

You can put together the bouquets and care packages with a partner, as well as deliver them yourself to one of the older resting Summoned. They might be in the infirmary or in their rooms depending on their injuries. Why not stay and chat? Though you've only just met, they've evidently been through something terrible. Perhaps they could use a friend.

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 modest defensive light shield that can protect against a single magical blow. 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.

Forest Growth
Patches of woods in the city of Castle Thorne have suffered from dead flora. It appears to be related to some heavy magical corruption from the past several weeks. Though Thorne's deemed it too dangerous to go directly into the woods, you can help plant new saplings in square crates filled with soil and pack them onto wagons. Make sure they're secured and kept upright. These trees will be taken out into the woods later by mages to replace the withered plantlife in the forests.

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. While Nocwich is normally thriving, no shops are open in Oleuni Square. Nocwich citizens explain that unforeseen circumstances prevent the market from opening as usual and request you return next month to explore. However, you can stay to help. Tents, tables, and medical supplies around the Square need to be taken down and packed up. You can guess that this was once a site for heavy rescue operations and emergency treatment.

◎ 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 are rising, and the climate is hot and dry, though still pleasant - during the day, at least. At night, they'll cool rapidly. Desert blooms dot the landscape for the spring. 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:

• Libertas shows signs of having suffered a devastating attack, but a good portion of it is rebuilt including a new garden park memorial that commemorates the lives lost. Chatter has shifted from the fire attacks to the abductions and failed experiments recovered only a week ago.


• From Cadens to Aquila to Libertas, the streets are heavily guarded. Soldiers patrol all areas, especially those typically occupied by the Summoned. This includes a particular inn and tavern in the heart of Cadens - The Sarstina - where the Summoned like you are often found...though it may not be as busy and thriving as it normally is.


• Instead, many of the older Summoned are either resting in their homes or recovering in Cadens' largest hospital. Doctors are busy, and the hospital is heavily guarded, too.


• Despite the troubles, life around the Free Cities is beginning to resume. Still, you can sense that a major crisis has only just been resolved, and much of the fallout remains.

◎ 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.

Supply Delivery
The Summoned are important to the Free Cities. The government means to take care of them through their recovery, and have instructed the military to assist. Soldiers are packing rations, medicine, and other supplies into crates to be delivered to the hospital in Cadens. You can help pack or make the deliveries yourself by hopping on the wagon. Though you aren't supposed to wander around the hospital, as one of the Summoned you have a bit more freedom than the average citizen. Maybe you could visit one of the rooms while you're there? Or you might run into a Summoned in the halls arriving to check on a friend.

Furry Friends
Researchers in Cadens have been studying the positive effects of animal companions on those who recently went through traumatic experiences. They've settled on the catlike Leosylph, a popular domestic breed, as the best choice. You can help bring these animals to anyone who would like one in the hospitals, or you can simply play with them and make sure they're fed while they're awaiting their assignments. They enjoy chasing mechanical mice powered by New Magic and purr when happy.

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. While Nocwich is normally thriving, no shops are open in Oleuni Square. Nocwich citizens explain that unforeseen circumstances prevent the market from opening as usual and request you return next month to explore. However, you can stay to help. Tents, tables, and medical supplies around the Square need to be taken down and packed up. You can guess that this was once a site for heavy rescue operations and emergency treatment.

◎ 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 pleasantly cool with the occasional heavy spring rains that soak the farmlands. The scent of wildflowers 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:

• Shops and stalls in Solvunn are temporarily closed. Many of Solvunn's residents have instead dedicated their time to helping the rescued Summoned. They're reluctant to speak of the recent abductions, stating that what happened was blasphemous to the Old Gods.


• Solvunn Elders will accompany anyone who strays too far from the Settlements, and will give you protective charms to make sure you're safe. You're advised to stay close to the commune where possible.


• Shrines around the settlements are overflowing with offerings. It seems something has happened recently that's made the locals especially dedicated to showing their devotion.


• 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.

◎ Exploring

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

Warding Homes
In order to aid recovery, commune Elders have asked for your help to ward the doors of homes occupied by the Summoned. Many of these homes are in housing provided by the Council or with host families in the settlement. You can hang bone wreathes on the doors to request blessings of protection and healing from the Old Gods. You can also bring hot meals and herbal medicine to the Summoned while you're there. Host families are friendly, and will welcome you in as long as the Summoned inside are willing to receive you, as well.

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.

Goat Herding
Due to the circumstances, Solvunn's traditional chaotic goat races will not be happening this month. This means the goats are filled with pent-up energy. Ornery and mischievous, they'll headbutt anything that moves, chew fence posts and clothes, and generally make a nuisance of themselves - some even escaping their pens. Exasperated farmers and herders are struggling. You can help retrieve escaped goats, repair broken fences, and do your best to contain the animals.

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. While Nocwich is normally thriving, no shops are open in Oleuni Square. Nocwich citizens explain that unforeseen circumstances prevent the market from opening as usual and request you return next month to explore. However, you can stay to help. Tents, tables, and medical supplies around the Square need to be taken down and packed up. You can guess that this was once a site for heavy rescue operations and emergency treatment.

◎ 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

Brother Cadfael | Chronicles of Brother Cadfael | The Hierophant

[rarebenedictine]

Prime - Supply delivery - Free Cities

Strange winds has thrown him here and there during his youth. Many times he has sailed through life like a ship without a direction. This was many years ago. At the twilight of his life Cadfael decided to forgo the excitement of a soldier's life and take upon himself a mantle of the monk.

Now, he stands again in a soldier's uniform and dry, desert wind fills his lungs. Lord truly works in mysterious ways. It's not long when he's able to piece out from the bits of information and gossip what is all the commotion about.

At first, he just helps with packing the supplies. Every pair of hands helps, and Cadfael is going to sit idle when there are people in need of medicine. Not long after though, and he finds himself with a set of directions, a map, and a cart full of supplies in his care. He knows his way around animals. If only he had another soul to help him. He's not above asking a stranger for help.

"Come, join me for the ride. I can handle the animals myself, but I'd more than welcome the company."

Terce - All around the castle, with special mention of infirmary - Thorne

Cadfael spends his time walking around the castle, trying to lear as much about it's denizens as he can. At a first glance, it is a royal dwelling. The walls are high and strong. There are guards everywhere, and staff aplenty. He speaks with all that would indulge him. They do confirm his first impression. This is a great city and castle of Thorne. Seat of King and Queen. They tell him he's lucky to be there.
As if led there, his steps take him to the castle infirmary. After a few exchanges, they do take him in. It's obvious there's not enough medics in this place. Cadfael will help when he can. Be it gathering herbs, mixing them for potions and medicines, or checking on patients.

Sext - Healers and Goat Herders - Solvunn

The gentle country with its houses, fields, the wind coming in from the sea. All that reminds Cadfael of his beloved Wales. Where this nostalgic comparison breaks is at the many shrines he has seen, the talk of gods. He has no intention to judge the people living there, pagans as they are.
There was time, generations ago but not completely forgotten, when his own home had bowed to the old gods. Not knowing the Light of the Lamb that later came to free them.
Cadfael find himself work, even in spite of his reservations. There are hot meals and medicine and a good word to deliver to the sick. He might even learn a thing or two while talking to the people there.

When all that work is done, he's glad to help with the escaped goats. Cadfael has more personal experience with sheep, but all kinds of people kept goats in and around Shrewsbury. One would need never to leave the walls of the monastery to avoid dealing with goats in one manner or the other.

Laude - Nocwich

Cadfael is no stranger to tales of werewolves, shapeshifters and vampires. He had not met one in his travels, but he had no reasons to speak ill of those that said they did. It all too easy to call another man a liar, it's more difficult to actually prove it.
In the eternal darkness of Nocwich he finds proof of their words. If those creatures exist here, why wouldn't their exist in his own home country. All over Europe and the Holy Land even.
There is not much to see, but Cadfael wouldn't be himself if he chose to just wander around when there's work to be done. He stays to help. It is not uncommon for people working together to talk more freely. So he counts he can learn something about what has befallen this place, it needed such a huge operation. He can tell from the amount of equipment he helps packing.
It cannot compare to a crusaders' army when they were packing, but a Lord's one sounds more likely.

Compline - Wildcard - Anything, anywhere, not exactly at once
Cadfael is a friendly, understanding man. He has seen much in his life. It taught him not to judge people too harshly on their first meeting. He is also curious to the point of noisy, so feel free to meet him anywhere the Summoned are allowed in. It is very probable he would have wondered there.

Nocwich - I can't express how happy I am to see Cadfael

[nadine_he_loves]

She probably ought to be resting. After all those weeks of frenzied activity, Nadine is certainly worn out. But she'd feel wrong just leaving others to deal with the field medicine tent. She'd set it up, she'll take it down.

Besides, she can repurpose the donated supplies that weren't used. The Lunae don't have much use for human remedies or equipment from the Free Cities. But her little clinic in Cadens certainly does. The donations had been generous, and there's still a good bit left. A shelf full of tonics and ointments, bags of old blankets, a large microscope machine....

It's honestly too much for her. So she flags down the first person she sees who's arms aren't full.

"Hey, would you mind giving me a hand?"

With her white hair pinned up on top of her head and her layered black skirts and high necked blouse, she almost looks like a native. An embroidered mortar and pestle on her blouse identifies her as a medic of some kind.

[rarebenedictine]

Cadfael had already glanced at the medical tent once or twice. It is a sturdy one, clean and well-organized. He planned to peek inside at some point. Lured by the soft glow coming inside and in hope of meeting the medic this little kingdom belonged to. The more he is glad when he is called upon from the inside of the tent. The one calling him is a tall woman, fair and young in spite of her white hair. Cadfael recognizes the symbol on her blouse as he steps inside.

Ah, so here's the medic.

"Not at all," he replies with a warm smile. "What do you need aid with?"

[nadine_he_loves]

"Thank you." Nadine's smile is tired but honest.

"Everything in here needs to be packed up. Not the shelves and tables, those stay here. The Lunae let us use them. But the supplies and medicines all need to go in boxes. And then...I need to get them back to Cadens, but I'll figure that one out when I have to."

She pauses a moment, looking at him closely. He's not actually familiar, and she's gotten used to the volunteers who have been here since last month.

"Sorry, I just realized I don't think I've seen you around the square before."

[rarebenedictine]

Cadfael looks around wondering where should he start. There's a method to how all things are placed. He'd rather not disturb it.

"Do you have an order you'd like to me to keep?" Upon further inspection he realizes one more detail needs clarification. He does not recognize any of the herbs or salves here. That is in itself most curious, and frankly unexpected, development. "And a labeling system? I'm afraid I'm not familiar with those ingredients. I'd rather not have anyone guess what's where whenever those boxes reach their destination."

He nods slightly in acquiescence. He's here to help, but her caution in entirely understandable.

"It might be because I am quite recent visitor."

[nadine_he_loves]

"Ah." Nadine nods, her expression turning to one of knowing sympathy. A newcomer. He seems pretty unbothered by it, as far as she can tell. And eager to be of help, it seems.

"You're Summoned. So am I. I'm Nadine Cross, medical student and herbal healer."

Among other things. But those are the most relevant at the moment.

"And not really, honestly. It's just going to get unpacked again when I get home. As long as bottles are with bottles and stone jars are with stone jars we're good. The microscope has its own box."

She can organize when she gets back. Half of it will probably go in storage, and her storage organization isn't the best anyway.

[rarebenedictine]

Summoned. Cadfael heard that term used before to reference those that are native to this land, committed it to memory, so now he's surprised by it.

"Cadfael, I'm a monk at the Shrewsbury Abbey, and their herbalist. I am glad to meet someone of my profession."

Among other things. But there's no need to explain all the crooked ways his life had had led him just now.

"Very well. That sounds easy to follow."

At Cadfael's herbarium, every pot, jar, bottle, and hemp sack filled with dried herbs, has its own place, so he can find quickly whatever he needs whenever he needs it. But he'd seen people work well even without such complications. Some would say his tendency to have all and everything neatly organized, just as he likes it, is a sign of pride.

Then there's the word he does not recognize. Cadfael never heard of a container called like that. He can't identify it. All he sees are jars and bottles. And an odd contraption on one of the shelves.

"The microscope?"

Free Cities

[redencion]

To tell the truth, he's given more than one long consideration to grabbing one of those wagons and getting the hell out of here. Running sounds good, but the plan falls apart from there (where? With what supplies? To do what? Isn't that gonna piss these people off, and aren't they soldiers?)

Better sense has prevailed, thankfully, but getting invited aboard one of the wagons in such close proximity to his bad, bad idea has him a little flustered for a moment. As though he's afraid this gentleman can read minds, or something.

"Ah... yeah, why not?" he answers after a moment in which he looks a little startled. Collecting himself as best he can, Luis shakes it off and heads over to climb aboard. "You know where we're supposed to be going?"

[rarebenedictine]

Cadfael in his long, and rather colorful, life has met men like him. Dark and restless. He did not call upon this particular man on purpose. Now, he sees they both could use a ride.

"Indeed, I do." he replies. "There's a hospital in the city. Two hours away as they say. It is where we are heading with the cargo."

An easy ride, but through the desert. Cadfael had traveled through desert before. He learned to respect it. The sea of sands is as beautiful as it is ruthless.

"I'm Cadfael," he adds.

[redencion]

"Cadfael," he repeats, wrapping a Spanish accent around the unfamiliar name. "Luis. Nice to meet you."

He packs the last crate into the back of the wagon and then circles around to hop in. "You say you're good with animals? Happy to let you drive then." As a bonus it will keep Luis from having any more terrible ideas should he spot a tempting escape route along the way. (Again, where... to do what... he's better off biding his time for now. He'll just keep telling himself and maybe it'll stick soon.)

[rarebenedictine]

"So I had," Cadfael confirms. "Horses, mules, sheep, camels. All sorts of God's creatures."

He takes the reins and ushers the horses into a light trot. Surely the hospital awaits their supply, but it's a hot climate. No need to tax the horses without good reason. They leave the encampment into the well-trodden road passing an empty cart coming back from the opposite direction.

"I'm sure you too have something you're good at," Cadfael adds with a smile.

[redencion]

He settles into the wagon seat (shotgun? Man, what he'd give for a gun right now...) and leans back, relaxing once it does indeed appear that Cadfael has it under control.

"Me?" He chuckles, shaking his head. "No, I'm just an average guy... who happens to be quite a ladies man, actually." It's hard to tell if he means that sincerely or if he's joking, said with the same airy flair as everything else.

"Running errands like this is about the limits of my skills. Bad luck of the draw for our abductors."

Thorne

[northerndragon]

The man's face is new, but mild. He pokes about the wing where the Summoned live, and he stands out to Jon because of his age -- not usual, for their lot. Some might be very old indeed, like the elves, but not many look it.

This one, though... he has seen his share of winters.

"You need help finding something?" Jon asks him, ready to show the way.

[OOC: I was literally listening to a Cadfael book yesterday.]

[rarebenedictine]

Cadfael's active life might have spared him from getting bent by the years passing like some old tree. Still, at well over sixty, he looks his age. He had also noticed that among those the are called the Summoned, he has yet to meet someone as old as he is. It is equally a mystery to him, as what force has brought here all those different people. Only on the Venetian ships sailing the Mediterranean or in the crusading armies has he ever seen such diversity.

"It seems that I do. I was looking for the sleeping quarters, but I guess I must have lost my way."

[ooc: Must be fate ;) Which one?]

[northerndragon]

Jon tilts his head to the side, conceding something that had never been contested.

"I can show you there. Rooms aplenty, if you haven't settled in yet. What sort of place do you come from, my lord?"

The man likely isn't a lord, though he does speak as though he might have come from Westeros. That means little and less in Thorne or anywhere in the world: no way to tell where someone has come from by what they sound like. In any case, it's better -- easier -- to assume someone is born higher than they are to smooth over the offense if you presumed them too lowborn.

[OOC: An Excellent Mystery! The one with Humilis and Fidelis. not my first encounter with Cadfael and will not be the last, but a nice listen. :> ]

[rarebenedictine]

"I am no man's lord, but every man's brother. I'm brother Cadfael, from the Shrewsbury Abbey. Though, I was born in Trefriw, near Conway in Wales."

Cadfael replies with a slight bow. It is very kind of the man to attribute him a higher stance that he's ever had. It also speaks of knowledge of similar social arrangements where a misstep at such attribution can cause one much grief. The man did not introduce himself yet, but Cadfael wonders if he's not perhaps from Scotland, or some kind of similar place that raises men with an iron core. He definitely carries himself like nobility, but not of the flashy kind. Rather the kind that tends to hold strongholds in the troublesome areas. That's why he thought of the north.

[northerndragon]

Cadfael, of no house but Shrewsbury, wherever that is. He seems a goodly sort, though, or at least as much so as a man can seem on such short acquaintance. Jon responds to his slight bow with one of his own, a deep nod.

"Forgive me -- I don't know what any of that means. I'm Jon Snow, of Winterfell." And he doubts Cadfael knows what that means, either: a Lord Paramount's bastard son. That he is now king in Winterfell doesn't matter at all in Thorne, so he doesn't say so. "I belonged to a brotherhood once, but not anymore. The Night's Watch; we guarded the Wall and ranged beyond it. This abbey -- it's another sort of brotherhood?"

Terce - Castle Infirmary

[dredefulchilde]

“I was sent to help.”

Joscelin keeps his shoulders up, voice sullen, looking for all the world like a bristling kitten. In this insane situation he’s found himself in, feeling so pathetically weak and almost human again, it’s best to play the part of the brat he appears to be. He looks to be a somewhat small and underfed eleven years old or thereabouts; long years of experience have taught him to use that to his advantage. Particularly around the unsuspecting.

There is something oddly familiar about the old man in the infirmary. The unique way he has shaved his head reminds Joscelin of a time, many centuries ago, when such a sight was far more commonplace. Certainly, his own human father had worn such a tonsure, though it was worn in mere lip service to the vows he had taken to procure his bishopric and not out of any actual faith. Joscelin’s existence is certainly proof of that.

Is this a monk? Here? Given that he feels like he’s tumbled headlong into a fantasy novel, it is entirely possible. It’s also possible that age and biology could’ve created such baldness. At any rate, standing in the doorway isn’t going to help things. Weakened as he is, he needs to be strategic if he is going to find his way back home. This old man is almost certainly an enemy, but his age might be an asset. If Joscelin plays the part of a pathetic child correctly, he can at least get information out of him before making his escape.

[CADFAEL. I love him so much and I love you for playing him. Joscelin is an original character and an immortal child who originally died during the Middle Ages but didn’t stay that way, and I may or may not have based his human childhood on the Cadfael Chronicles when I was first writing it whoops.]

Joscelin!!!!

[rarebenedictine]

Cadfael doesn't turn around when he hears the voice. His current task requires meticulous focus. He doesn't mean to leave the boy waiting until he finishes it.

"Sit down at the table, boy. There's a pile of linens, freshly washed, cut for bandages, that needs folding."

It's a simple, but tedious and time-consuming task. Work that has to be done, and done quickly, but requires no expertise. The medics here welcome all the help they can get, especially a skilled one. They didn't need much convincing to let Cadfael commandeer this small part of the infirmary as soon as they realized that given proper instruction on how to deal with unfamiliar herbs, he picks up quickly and is able to take some of their work off their shoulders, preparing all kinds of medicine.
Much of what they did was unfamiliar to Cadfael, but he felt similarly about the Syrian medics when he had a chance to see them work. He'd learned a lot from them.

Only when he's done preparing the tincture, straightens his back and turns around does he notice the peculiar disposition of the boy they sent to help him. Young and small, barely over ten years old from the looks alone. Too guarded and cautious for his age. An orphan? Cadfael must admit, if only to himself, that he's intrigued by this mystery.

"Have you eaten? You look pale."

He doesn't even wait for an answer, already turning to rummage through what he has left from his own modest meal. In mere minutes he has assembled on a wooden plate bread and a large chunk of cheese. He moves away the bandages and places the plate before the boy. Along with a cup filled with water.

"It's alright. You can eat first."

Work can wait. No man alive should work on an empty stomach. Children especially.

"I'm Brother Cadfael. What's your name, lad?"

[OOC: Hello there! I remember Joscelin for The Far Shore! I had Iskandar there.]

🎶Reunited and it feels so good🎶

[dredefulchilde]

Folding bandages, hmm? Of course a child as young as he appears to be would be given such menial work. Joscelin schools his face into a suitably sulky frown and sets himself to the task at hand, watching the old man through long, dark eyelashes without appearing to do so. He works quickly and efficiently, and almost all of the bandages are already neatly (almost painfully neatly) rolled by the time the tonsured stranger turns back around to face him. Joss is surprised to see food being shoved at him, not more work. And yet, he is hungry. Not for bread and cheese, of course, but it will take the edge off until he can truly satiate himself. Plus, tearing ravenously into the plate in front of him will help in the part he must play to extract whatever useful information he can from his companion. He openly studies the man between large bites, downing most of the food in near record time. It’s all part of the act. This is hardly the first time he’s used his image as a pitiful, forlorn child to gain an advantage over others. He’s an old hand at it.

Brother Cadfael. Joscelin’s eyebrows shoot up at that, unbidden, before the mask falls back into place. So the man is a monk. Part of him, the part that still looks back almost fondly at his cloistered mortal life, feels a bit more at ease now, around this stranger, but he refuses to give into it. Even this sudden, unbidden familiarity cannot get him to drop his guard.

“God be with you, Brother.” The response is flat, almost bored; a schoolboy’s rote greeting.

“I’m called Joscelin.”

solvunn

[carmesi]

Wanda starts when a bowl of hot soup is placed near her hands. She's been sitting on one of the outdoor tables by the tavern, a bit of a ways away, writing away at a letter—or what seems like one, anyway. There are a series of dots rather than proper writing on the page.

She glances up to find a kindly old man. He's new, and she's— certain that she's seen him around, tending to the sick, feeding them.

"I'm not sick," she says, lightly, not wanting to offend. She means that she isn't one of those who was kidnapped, taken, and is now on the mend. "There's the family down the road, though."

Unfortunate how three of the household had been taken, but they're getting better. And though she says she is not one of those who are sick, she looks a little gaunt, as if she hasn't stopped to allow herself to rest and feed properly ever since they've put this ordeal behind them.

[rarebenedictine]

"But doesn't a labourer need their nourishment too?"

Cadfael has a reason he stopped at her table first. There's a particular type of person that leans all too often into working themselves to the bone in the service of others, with complete disregard for their own needs. He's seen this in men and women of all stations. He has a suspicion he rightfully recognizes a streak of it in her too.

"I know, and I am on my way to check on them."

It's horrible what had happened to them. Man's cruelty and malice no longer raises in him the need to respond with armed punishment. Cadfael is at the stage of life when most of his focus goes to the victims. His need to see justice served is only stronger for it.

"Were you here when that happened?"

[carmesi]

"I've been here throughout it all."

The kidnappings, the finding their people, the bringing them back. The entire thing—in all its exhausting, emotionally draining glory. Wanda doesn't fight back trying to get the older man to back off or to tend to someone else.

The break? The company? It's a bit nice.

And while some families have returned whole, if not a little emotionally broken for the whole ordeal, some others have not been able to say the same. Lives were lost.

That guilt clings a little to her skin. She glances at the bowl of soup, turns her attention back to her writings, quiet for a moment, before setting down her writing utensil.

"Are you going to the home of everyone that was taken?"

[rarebenedictine]

Cadfael nods slowly. He takes this as a chance to sit down himself for a minute. It did not escape his attention that she was writing. He's no longer surprised, only delighted, by such widespread literacy. Even common folk seem to know how to read and write here.

"I imagine it must have been difficult."

Even if she had tried to shoo him away, she would have find him gentle but insistent that she needs to eat. Those that work themselves unto the point of fainting can barely help anyone. One needs to have strength to be able to share it.

"As many as I can. Even if only with a good word."

Sometimes it's what people need most. Cadfael has seen what wars and natural disasters do to people. What happened here has cast a shadow on the community not all that different from the catastrophes he's witnessed.

[carmesi]

Wanda does not shoo him away even as he sits down, and she can note the small branching of delight that hover in his mind. She can connect why, about the writing, but cannot pinpoint the context for it. Her own writing schematics at this point are mostly of the... braille disposition, forcing herself to study writing in it to keep her mind busy.

But it takes no coaxing at all for her to reach for the soup and start bringing the spoon to her lips.

"I hope you keep yourself fed too, then," she remarks. Her nose crinkles for a moment. She's trying to figure out how a 'good' word could bring help to others, if not for a spell that enchants them into betterment. "Are you a healer?"