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

NOWICH

[princessvegas]

[ Look, it's not the first time Julie has seen what might very well be a monster. Shit, they're in a city of vampires and werewolves, and she comes here regularly. There have been non-human Summoned before. There's no reason for her to be as absolutely confounded as she is while she is looking at a shark with legs. It is... definitely a regular Earth shark, but with legs.

There's no reason, and yet she cannot stop herself from staring.

But she's also someone who is not content to simply stare. After a moment or two of sheer shock, she heads across the square and taps it on the elbow. ]

Are you tryin' to find somethin'?

[nomnoms]

[ Her hand is so small, it takes a second for him to notice the tapping. Nanaue turns his head and looks down, blinking. His mouth remains open, and unfortunately she can probably smell a bit of his last meal (and maybe see chunks of it stuck in his teeth).

After a long few seconds of staring back at her, he finally asks: ]

I miss party?

[ With one meaty, four fingered hand he points to the people taking down the tents. There is a sense of disappointment in his question. ]

[princessvegas]

[ She does flinch slightly, though it's much more about the smell than the sight. And somehow, despite asking the question and fully expecting an answer, it's still surprising to hear a human voice speaking English come out of that mouth.

But oh. Oh no. That's actually... kind of cute, that it would be disappointed to miss a party. She's sure that it's because of things like SpongeBob and Finding Nemo that she pictures this enormous, terrifying beast in a little party hat, but. That's the image.

Christ. ]

Oh, honey. No. [ Her voice instinctively becomes more delicate, gentle. Like she's finding it a bit precious, while also trying to keep it on the calm side. It's a shark. ] Not a party. It was -- there was an emergency, so they set up tents for medical and supplies. Everythin's okay now, though.

[ Which is kind of an overstatement, but whatever. She's talking to a fucking shark with legs. ]

[nomnoms]

[ His head tilts slightly as he listens to her explanation, then he lifts his snout, nose holes opening and closing as he seems to sniff the air.

He gives a solemn, serious nod and turns to her again. ]

Okay now. Good. [ His rumbling voice seems very certain, or at least trusting in her answer. But then he goes slack jawed again, glancing around the square before moving on to the next important question -

his stomach rumbles. Both giant hands settle over his belly as he looks down at her again. ]

You know where find nom noms?

[princessvegas]

[ She watches the shark process the information with the posture of someone who isn't entirely sure they've made the right choice, and might need to run quickly. But it -- he? Do sharks identify with genders? It sounds like it has a male voice, but then again, what the fuck would a female shark's voice sound like?

Jesus H. Christ.

He, she decides, takes the news well, and she's about to try and move the conversation along when he speaks again. In light of everything, it's actually probably the only question she would expect a shark to have. ]

Uh, I suppose that depends on what kind of "nom noms" you got in mind. Here, in the square, there's some meat vendors, I guess. Or you can go hunt in the woods, but it's real dark. Fishin' is really out in Luna, not here. The only other places are the inns. [ She peers around. This isn't a great weekend for dining options. ] What do you like to eat?

[nomnoms]

[ Meat. Woods. Hunting. No fish. He thinks on this, and then the question she asks.

What do you like to eat?

Nanaue turns away from her and looks around, pausing on:

A grizzled werewolf woman.
A slight and pale vampire.
A human man carrying some boxes.

She might notice a common theme in each of the very humanoid beings that seem to catch his attention.

He turns his head to look at her again, giving a blank stare, as if waiting for her to answer an implied question about his choices. ]

[princessvegas]

[ She follows his gaze, and luckily, the thought patterns of a shark are not exactly that mysterious. Although this definitely makes her feel like she's been lied to by every person who ever told her that shark attacks on humans are rare and defensive.

With a sharp inhale, she nods. ] Mm, 'kay, got it. But that's not somethin' you can really do here. Or... most places in Abraxas. See, the native people, they get real angry if you just run around, eatin' folks. Gotta save that for only special people. [ There's a brief pause before she adds, ] And never eat another Summoned, understand?

[ She points at him with one finger, then herself. Her voice is strong, but still placating. ] You are one of us. A Summoned. We're family, and family don't eat family. Right?

[ This point made, she looks around the square once more, spots one of the few food stalls open. She wonders if they might have quite a lot of that weird almost-venison the werewolves eat on hand. ]

Follow me. My name is Julie. Do you have a name?

[nomnoms]

[ Maybe it started rare and defensive for this particular sharkperson...

At first he doesn't understand what she means by Summoned. If the word had been said by his new friends in the village, it went in one earhole and out the other. His arrival had been a little chaotic, and there were more important explanations the receiving natives had to give him about what he can and cannot eat. He had been, understandably, kept busy trying to remember all the new rules and being convinced to follow them if he wanted to stay.

He doesn't want to be kicked out. He hates being alone. So he is trying very hard to not eat the nomnoms that aren't allowed. He pays attention to her.

She points to him, then herself. He points to himself as well. He is Summoned? Then she says family and his dark eyes go wide.

As the questions begin percolating she interrupts his thoughts again by telling him her name, and asking for his. ]

Nanaue. [ he answers, still pointing at himself. His arm lowers and he seems willing to follow her. ]

You like me? [ Family. His eyes are wide again and he starts peering at her back, looking for something. ]

[princessvegas]

[ She can sense the confusion. She doesn't blame him, actually -- Summoned is a shitty name but it's what they've got. ]

Summoned. The people here, they brought lots of others the same way they brought you here. They call it bein' summoned. So we're the Summoned. [ She gestures at both of them again. ] They brought me here almost two years ago. And 'cause we aren't from this world, we're special. We can do special things.

[ She beams at him, repeats his name in her melodic accent, then offers him her hand. ] Nanaue. Nice to meet you.

[ As they walk, she smiles over her shoulder, looking up at him. ] 'Course! You seem nice. We don't have nothin' like you back where I'm from. Did they bring you to Solvunn or Thorne? I woulda seen you in Cadens. That's where I live now.

[ They reach the booth and Julie approaches the counter. The werewolves running the stand stare past her at Nanaue, clearly apprehensive, but she doesn't allow for them to ignore her. ] I'll take whatever fisceime you got left. And two of the torcainse bacon sandwiches. [ Glancing down, she takes a small coin purse out of the beaded bag hanging from her wrist. ] Nanaue, how do you like your meat?

[ She assumes the answer is "raw", but that's probably not the best way to make the werewolves more comfortable. ]

[nomnoms]

Special things...?

[ She offers her hand and he takes it. He doesn't mean to be rough with her but his handshake is... enthusiastic. She might have to plant her feet really good to stay on them. ]

Julie. Family. [ She can take that as a nice meet you too when he finally lets go. He's still looking for a shark fin on her back to prove that they're related (maybe it's very small?), though he gets distracted again as he lumbers after her. The new question give him pause. ]

Solvunn? [ he repeats as a question, but then adds on more proudly: ] Me live on farm now. Make art with bone!

[ He doesn't know where Cadens is. That makes him sad.

He doesn't notice the apprehensive werewolves because whatever is beyond the counter is much more interesting.

His deadpan answer probably isn't much better than what she was imagining: ]

Fresh.

[princessvegas]

[ That handshake certainly does make her wobble, but she doesn't fall. She laughs instead. ] I bet you'll do great with them. I have friends in Solvunn, they'll help you out. Talk to Wanda.

[ The werewolves are not opposed to raw meat, of course. It's more the entire package that seems unnerve them. Julie withdraws several gold coins from her bag and slaps on the counter with a, You heard the shark, fellas. This is a better distraction, and they begin putting together a tray, gesturing for her to take a seat at a nearby table, which she does. The chairs seem built for werewolf bulkiness, which is good; some of the vampire cafes have spindly little iron chairs at all the tables. She takes a seat and props her elbows on the table. ]

There's a special place we can go that people from this world can't. It's called the Horizon. And we can send each other messages with our minds. Plus, we can learn magic if we want.

[ She raises one hand, closed in a fist, then opens it. A butterfly seemingly made of rainbow light flies out, flutters in a circle around him before lighting on his snout and then dissipating into glittering dust. ]

[nomnoms]

[ Friends in Solvunn! That sounds right. He will try to remember the name Wanda but it'll most likely slip his mind in a few seconds since food now. His idea of fresh is more along the lines of 'still breathing', but in the end he's not overly choosy.

Julie walks away before they hand it over and Nanaue is torn, but inevitably ends up lumbering after her. He stares down at the other empty chair at the table, then sits. It creaks ominously, holding for now.

As she does her magic he seems enraptured, following the butterfly as it flies around him, giant fists trying to catch it unsuccessfully as he laughs from his belly, a strangely child-like sound despite how deep it is. His hands pause in the air when it lands on his snout and disappears.

He stares at her, dumbfounded. ]

Julie magician. [ Nanaue says with awe. He looks at his own hand, concentrating hard on his palm. ]

[princessvegas]

Nah, sugar, I'm a mage. [ She corrects him gently, smiling. ] And you can be too, if you want. Just gotta learn how to do it. But not yet. After you go to the Horizon.

[ She doesn't think Nanaue is exactly on a fast track to Hayle or anything, but what does she know? She could have never fathomed the magnitude of her own power. Besides, if there's ever been another candidate for Wild Magic, she's looking at it -- no part of her believes he'd be capable of any other kind. Too many words, things to remember. She doubts he'll be able to study runes with Wanda. But Julie's sure she can teach him some simple spells, if he wants. Basic illusory magic isn't hard.

The werewolves carry over a tray of barely cooked meat so large that two of them need to carry it. A third carries two sandwiches on a plate, looking almost comical next to the others. ]

Here. [ Julie points as they set the food down. ] That's the main meat in Nocwich, it's pretty much like deer. The sandwich is the real good stuff, but it's not as common. Costs a lot.

[ She deftly takes one of the sandwiches for herself before a literal shark starts devouring everything on the table. ]

[nomnoms]

[ Mage. Oh, okay. He points to himself again when Julie says you can be too. The intricacies of being a magician or mage are lost on him, but he imagines himself summoning so, so many pretty birds.

His snout turns in the direction of the tray bearing werewolves just as they arrive to set it in front of him. His eyes seem to go all pupils in that moment, an animalist dark as he takes a deep sniff. Her explanation is lost as he begins feasting - and it's... pretty awful. Anyone else in the vicinity is subjected to the terrifying sight and sounds of a shark man shoving a whole plate of nearly raw meat down his gullet. Julie has likely barely had a chance to take a bite or two of her own sandwich before the tray is demolished and he sets it back down on the table. ]

Thank [ belch ] you.

[ He seems momentarily sated, though he does lean forward to peer at her sandwiches. ]

So small! [ He seems more confused than judgmental. He never understands how everyone else around him isn't hungry all the time when they seem to eat so little. ]

[princessvegas]

[ It's not the nicest thing in the world to see, but Julie isn't a stranger to animals eating, and has been actively feeding a large wolf on a regular basis for eighteen months. She only flinches slightly; it's also over fairly quickly, far faster than the wolf ever eats. So she doesn't seem as put off as the vast majority of people might.

She laughs a little when he says that, and offers him the second sandwich, if he would care to actually attempt to taste the meat. ]

You missed me a few weeks back, when I was eatin' whole loaves of bread and blocks of cheese. [ Channeling other people's visions is the most energy draining thing she's ever done. ] This'll do me fine for now, though.

[ She takes a bite and chews, and it becomes extremely apparent that she is treating him just like she would any other dining companion. ] So, what is your world like? Is everyone sharks?

[nomnoms]

[ Bread and cheese give him gas.

Does she not like her tiny sandwiches? That must be why she offers him the other one. That's okay, he's happy to eat it for her - though if she's hoping he'll savor it a little more than the meat plate - well, he does chew it a bit this time, very deliberately.

He finishes chewing, swallows, and then stares at her again. ]

No shark. Only me. [ There's something quietly sorrowful in his rumbly voice. He glances to the side, and for the first time either notices or acknowledges the stares he's getting by the werewolf folk. ]

Scared...

[ People are generally scared of him. ]

[princessvegas]

[ She chuckles again, watching him. The sandwiches, to any human, are obviously far too large for someone Julie's size to eat two at once, but of course they seem miniature to him.

But he continues and her face slowly falls. She looks around at the passersby, their reactions, and her jaw sets. Her mouth is a firm line, and she turns back to Nanaue. She puts the sandwich down and reaches across the table to put her hand on top of his. Well, on top of two fingers, at least. ]

Don't worry about them. No one gives a shit what the natives think. I think you're fuckin' cool, Nanaue.

[nomnoms]

Cool?

[ He turns away from the werewolves to look down at her comparatively small hand over his own much larger one. He puts his free hand on top of hers. It's true, he is cool. ]

Waaarm.

[ Her hand is nice and warm.

Someone walks by carrying a tray with a jug and mugs. ]

Drink?

[princessvegas]

Cool like awesome. But yeah, I suppose you are cool like in temperature, too.

[ Her hand disappears between his, entirely too small to be seen past the wrist once he covers it. But she doesn't appear put off by the weirdness of the encounter, or how strangely smooth sandpaper-y sharkskin is.

When she takes her hand back, it's only because it's her dominant one, and she uses it to signal for the werewolves that served them. ]

What do you drink? [ She is not sure whether sharks can drink wine, which she orders for herself. ] In Abraxas, we mostly drink wine and ale, but there's water and other stuff too.

[nomnoms]

[ He makes a low rumbling sound almost like pleased laughter (heh heh heh) when she agrees with him, and when she pulls her hand away he places both of his on the table.

Water is the answer, but he is always curious. ]

Share? [ He wants to try whatever she is having, even if it is small like the sandwich. ]

[princessvegas]

[ The werewolf brings a bottle of wine (Julie double checks to make sure it doesn't contain blood) and two goblets, both of which she fills. She offers him one, aware that it is the equivalent to handing another adult one of those tiny mouthwash cups, and then raises her own. She does not know if Nanaue has any concept of cheers. ]

Welcome to Abraxas, Nanaue. And to our little family of weirdoes.

[ After all, it's not like he can choose to leave. ]

[nomnoms]

[ But would be better with some blood...

The cup does, in fact, look like ridiculously small in his massive hand. Whether or not he understands the full meaning of cheers is partially irrelevant since he mostly appears compelled to follow along, to fit in. He lifts his goblet as she does. ]

Family! [ Comes his rumbly voice in confused agreement.

He will find her hidden fin, one day. ]