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

[oversight]

It certainly seems like a logical question since he did little to actually describe the person in question. He thinks nothing of it, not expecting any kind of suspicion to be cast in his direction because—

"He looked... fit," which is Blake's way of saying he noted the physique first. And why shouldn't he have? "Apple bottom jeans, boots with the spurs," he jokes without joking. "No shirt, and he was wearin' his Stetson in a surprisin' way." It's only because Stetson is the only brand of cowboy hat Blake can think of that he gets it right, like sheer luck spent in the wrong place. Figures.

Leaning back his gaze grazes the selection of gums and candies and lighters spread before him, all those impulse purchases looking familiar but not. He's trying to decide if he's got enough for something else. Because, yes, he's imagined this place takes money like anywhere else gas station shaped.

Maybe he just needs a Snickers™️. Or... a Cackles™️ as it seems to be called here, which he places up on the counter, too. What's the damage? More than he has. He's almost hoping for a little pity.

[the_keeper]

"Ah." Sabine also draws this out with the fluted note of someone wise and having put all the pieces together. Check and check, and Sabine is starting to smile. Just the slightest bit; tiding it back just enough to remain aloofly polite. "You met the Bathroom Cowboy."

"Don't mind him. I hear he's very polite." Even when he's in there sharpening knives (and scaring people out of the store without buying anything after they've decided not to use the bathroom). "I haven't had the chance to meet him. Obviously. On account of him being-" There's a playful shrug. "You know. Polite. And staying on his side of the hallway."

It's not exactly true, but neither is Gas Station Bathroom Cowboy of Horizon, so they can make up the difference between them. Sabine finally took the two dollars off the counter and considered him quizzically as Dude With The Shadow Cloud suddenly looked awkwardly uncertain (and, yes, Sabine is a master at translating awkwardly uncertain. Prime example: Jack Townsend at all ages.).

"What's that face for?"

[oversight]

The quirk of his eyebrow in response is almost Spock-like, as if Blake can't imagines what Sabine means. His eyes shift to one side and then he leans to the other side, looking back over his shoulder like he might be expecting her to be talking to someone else.

"Who, me? What—" He feels the trickle of rainwater crawl down behind his ear and settle in his collar — (How is even possible that he's still so damn wet that he's dripping?) — and Blake resists and resists and resists, but a tremor shudders through him that he's forced to fight off with a sip of lukewarm black coffee.

"You just said the Bathroom Cowboy, which is not somethin' I've ever heard of outside of Brokeback Mountain," Blake says, confused in his own right because it seems obvious to him. "What kinda face should I be makin'?"

(And maybe more importantly, why does this coffee taste so familiar? He can't quite place it, but everything from taste to temperature to where it hits on the back of the tongue reads like déjà vu.)

[the_keeper]

Sabine supposes she should take it easy on the guy. Honestly, in the course of things, back when this was still in her daily life, it hadn't been something to bat an eyelash at. Of all the things which were ultimately concerning on-site, the Bathroom Cowboy was not. But. It's not been normal for a helluva long time. Even in pantomime, it's like a re-christening. She's enjoying it more than Dude deserves, but she can't help herself or the amusement it adds to her countenance.

"Well, yeah," Sabine agrees. "There's not another article that fits there."

Yes, that random gas station clerk girl just took your emphasis and turned it grammatical. "Pretty sure he didn't get to spotlight in a blockbuster, so you might be mixing him up with some other cowboy in a stetson and apple bottom jeans." Oh, yes. That's definitely on purpose, too. "They can all start to look alike at a point. Take my word for it. The lower fifty is a blur of both."

[oversight]

Eyes narrowing slightly, Blake considers the grammatical implications, all at once wanting to point out that a bathroom cowboy and the Bathroom Cowboy clearly leave two distinctly different impressions. Maybe, like the Oxford comma, it's worth the semantical debate for clarity's sake, but something about trying to argue the point feels a little too close to Blakesplaining for his liking. And really, does it matter? If this particular (read: possibly pedantic) gas station attendant wants to claim a particular (read: specific) bathroom cowboy, who is he to argue?

He sets his cup on the counter to struggle into the Cackles bar, somewhat horrified to find it's covered in white chocolate and stuffed with raisins instead of peanuts. Gross. He should have read the label.

"Kill for those abs, though," he grumbles, leaning back again to look at the candy selection. Are they all going to be like this? Probably, he decides resolutely.

"All yours if you want it," Blake notes, placing the candy on the counter still mostly nestled in its wrapper. Even in the Horizon he's not interested in wasting food, which probably makes him look stupid, uncertain of his surroundings, or both (plus more). Not hard to guess which as he scoops his coffee back up and greedily takes a blessed sip. He might stick around long enough to top off, assuming that doesn't cost extra. His desperation for caffeine definitely outstrips the bounds of his imagination, getting an instant pass in nearly any situation.

(And that's when he puts a finger on the taste, transported back for an instant to his rambling insanity in the pit. The lanky kid with the wild hair, the inexplicable coffee pot, Blake almost forced to pummel him—)

The shadow of guilt creeps in and Blake stares down into his cup, now urged towards waiting for the pleasantries to pass and he can make his retreat; the last thing he wants is to upset anyone after what they'd all been through (and right behind that is a desire to never talk about the pit ever again).

"I should—" He tips his head at the door and the rain outside hammers all the harder. "Thanks for—" His cup's raised like a wave goodbye.

[the_keeper]

Ah, but she'd be so ready to go to bat for her a, and how would open the possibility of multiples, and there is only one Bathroom Cowboy. Even this one is only what amounts to a mirage of it. No true sentience, no actual presence, no connection beyond the visual. Give her a chance, and she might take it like a chess match champ who has been denied the ability to do anything related to talking for half a decade.

(Aside from the exception.

The not to be forgotten refused to be forsaken one.)

Sabine gives a short snort, but it'd be hard to tell if it was the compliment about the cowboy's look--or the new information that he was shirtless, or shirt hitched high, this time--or that comment about leaving her the candy bar he'd taken, tried, and then abandoned half-eaten candy bar. That's. Well. That's definitely a choice on his part.

He looks down at his coffee morosely, and she doesn't know what that's about.

"Course. We're here if you ever need a top-off." Gas. Coffee. Whatever. A gas station in a liminal space where anything was possible with the right effort. It's not better than the alternative, but Jack doesn't remember it, and she can understand the need for the comfort of the known built into the unknown as an anchor. The want for something more emblematic of truth. She feels the unsettled ache for the undone, even if it was only a dream.

Sabine considered passing it up but then decided not to. Her expression softened.
"You okay? You seem a little--" She let it linger as an invitation.

[oversight]

For a moment he wishes he'd taken the opportunity to argue instead of conceding to his own mental state. He feels all the more guilty, then, for the attention brought to it — his fault for not hiding it — and considers lying to save them both the trouble.

"No, I— Well, yes—" Blake fumbles and it's anyone's guess which answer is which or whether he knows at all.

He reaches up, fingers squeezing along the forehead lines that feel etched deep with his discomfort over the past several weeks. How is it possible that his head is throbbing? Only John Blake knows, although anyone who's met him (or someone like him) would be able to guess pretty quickly. When his hand drops back down, he leans it heavily against the counter, leaving in a manner that cocks his hip out like he's still got a heavy gun belt to contend with. "A run of bad luck's all," he says dismissively.

But it makes him think. Has made him think. And since coming back from the island, it's been his dad on his mind, like the memory of the man chases after the son that takes after his mistakes. Had his gamble really paid off? Or had he tossed himself into that churn for the sake of his own hubris? He never understood why his father couldn't stop, but it's starting to sink in how desperation can lead to a great many unwanted things.

He switches the coffee to the other hand and offers his across the counter in greeting. "Blake," he says through a slightly self-deprecating smile. "But my friends call me 'Oscar the Grouch'."

[the_keeper]

The long consideration of surprise, consternation, and waffling uncertainty does not surprise her or cause her any turmoil about whether she should have asked. There's an attentive mmm with a small nod of her head at his statement as he says it while she's already toggling between check-box options. She knows a lot of what's happening outside the world, and it could be that, or it could be other things, too. There are many things in this place, and all places, even whatever world or dimensions he came from, that could cause something as such.

Sabine reached out easily and shook Blake's hand,
even though her mouth is already quirked slightly by his second statement.

"Sabine. Just Sabine." A flicker of a smirk to go with the second part, but it's a flash in the pan here and then gone, before her eyes narrow a little consideringly the next, playing along with his little smile and offering of his second. "Interesting nickname, there. Are you often quarrelsome and antisocial? Or is it some kind of inside joke?"

[oversight]

He laughs a little, head dipping just so before he lifts the coffee cup shy of a sip and holds it. "Definitely quarrelsome and antisocial," he admits before drowning the amusement that's crept in. Is there a reason a person might not want to shed their dark clouds? Blake can't think of one, and yet he clings to that upset like a familiar blanket. Like he can't find it in himself to feel better just yet.

"You think maybe Oscar gets a bad wrap? He's nice enough to live on Sesame Street," Blake points out after a thoughtful pause. Wasn't he just looking for a little peace and quiet? The occasional kindness offered by the wiggly green muppet, as well as the affinity for kids, is something Blake has always appreciated. Oscar never hurt anyone; he was simply a Grouch and they accepted him anyway.

[the_keeper]

Sabine isn't sure she believes him entirely. Not even with the excuse of only the bare edge of ten minutes in the guy's presence. But the second part makes her press her mouth into a thoughtfully straight line, and she inspects Coffee Dude, who is now also Blake With A Name.

It's a severe inquisition across the counter in those green eyes.

"I don't know if you've had enough coffee yet to engage in this discussion," Gas Station Girl says, setting her hands on the counter loosely (though still not having moved, taken, eaten, or thrown away said half-eaten candy bar still sitting there between them). Their talking allegories for kids but also all of humanity's children. "As much as he's easily this allegory for the respect people deserve even if they aren't kind, or content, or optimistic, or accommodating to your expectations in action or deeds—"

Sabine shifted slightly. "—he always came off more sad than mad to me."

"The kind of person who went through too much, maybe in their childhood, maybe in their adulthood. But just someone who has been through so much before you met them on the page n' stage that day and is making the best way they can. Often in the only ways they can for protecting themselves from it happening again."

[oversight]

It's all well and good as Sabine makes her observations because Blake is the kind of person that enjoys a deep dive, so to speak. But then Oscar becomes Oscar and that turns him a little green. Outside, the rain thickens, gusting winds rattling the door as it's pelted. Thunder rumbles and Blake swears he can feel it buzzing his chest with its depth.

Too real.

"You're right," he agrees, staring down into his cup. "—not nearly enough coffee." Which he takes steps to rectify, returning to the coffee pot to pour the slowest most careful refill to ever grace a gas station coffee bar.

Sabine can't know how her words feel so raw, that they enter like a slow knife burning a path to the unreconciled list of upsets stacked over the years.

(To have seen right through him, it's either too obvious or Sabine has a third eye. One seems more likely than the other, because it can't be both and he's failed enough in the past that he should know better in the present.

Had he left his guts on the ground? Is he made of glass?

Two months and change and years of progress squashed under the heavy hand of this new world.)

When he finds the cup full, he sets the pot back as carefully and quietly as possible, swallowing the grief, willing it away.

He keeps his distance.

"It's—" Complicated, he wants to say, but instead he says, "—nice to meet you, Sabine. Thanks for the—" He lifts his cup, now sporting a lid, only just noticing the rain has lightened to a drizzle. It might be the best time to go.

[the_keeper]

A little of column A and a lot of column B.

Blake's inability to control his emotional effect on a collaborative liminal space isn't helping him. That isn't to say that she'd needed it, but the instantaneous effect of everything outside The Gas Station is impossible to miss for someone familiar with those kinds of mechanics. Her words had landed far more accurate than she'd meant them to. Astute. Maybe too astute.

Or maybe that meant his people were good people. They understood and upheld his right to be those things and respected whatever happened to be hung up behind it. It's lucky if he has.

But it's far more than coffee and candy and customer depth, and she doesn't say anything to his retreating away to the coffee. Not as he goes, not while he's back over there, and not once he returns. Sabine lets her face stay pleasantly polite, circumspect of any suspicion or triumph, like she might have missed the entire flash-dire retreat from her or the changing weather outside the glass windows.

"Nice to meet you, too, Blake. Have a good rest of your day."