TEST DRIVE MEME #12

[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.

The TDM is forward-dated to when the summonings occur in-game (when applications are accepted), at the start of June.

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. Though some tension is in the air when locals discuss recent abductions and an execution involving the gods in Solvunn, there's also a buzz of excitement from the recently concluded Blossom Cake Festival - where a new pastry chef was crowned champion for this year's cake!


• Though life in the Castle is beginning to resume as usual, you can sense that a major crisis has only just been resolved, and some of the fallout remains. There are also rumors of strange floating lights appearing on the furthest outskirts of town.

◎ Exploring

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

Cupcake Decorating
Noteworthy participants in the Blossom Cake Festival are given the honor of having their cakes displayed in the castle. You can have a slice of this year's winning creation, filled with delicate notes of lavender, pecans, and vanilla. Also available are an equally impressive chocolate cake feature and a lemon honey cake. The champion pastry chef will be there to give decorating lessons. Why not join someone and pipe some flowers on a cupcake? Even if it doesn't turn out like you hoped, you can eat it afterwards!

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.

Dewey's Decimals
The main library in the Castle is in chaos. Apprentice Mage Dewey has received approval to implement a new classification system of all publicly available scrolls and tomes. This can cause a huge disruption to studies and projects, so Dewey has been given a deadline of one week to complete his task. If he catches you in the halls, this harried and sleep-deprived mage will ask for generous volunteers to assist with the project. Though he only has gratitude to offer, he assures you that the changes will streamline the research process for centuries to come. You can help move heavy books from one section of the library to the other, take down shelves with the use of a few approved telekinesis spells and capture book worms who are notorious for destroying old papers.

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

◎ Settling In

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

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

Welcome to the Free Cities

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

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

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

◎ Surroundings

While you're currently at the outpost just outside of the city proper, Cadens on the whole is a large bustling city. Temperatures 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 large 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, as well as a gruesome execution involving the gods in Solvunn. Scholars and laymen alike can be heard debating the nature of gods and men.


• From Cadens to Aquila to Libertas, the streets are 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. It's evident they're here for your protection rather than to prevent you from moving freely. Nevertheless, the atmosphere is cheery, with many innovative inventions and fashion item still on display following the month's festivals celebrating the arts.


• Though life in the Free Cities is beginning to resume as usual, you can sense that a major crisis has only just been resolved, and some of the fallout remains. There are also rumors of strange floating lights appearing on the furthest outskirts of town.

◎ 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.

Arts & Science Workshops
Throughout Cadens, those skilled in their craft have set up free workshops, both to market their wares and to encourage creative minds. You can attend a workshop on writing with one of Libertas' famous playwrights, learn how New Magic can be used to useful household devices such as fire-less lamps and iceboxes, and get a brief lesson in the art of color theory to aid you in your future as a painter or clothing designer. Why not join a friend in the workshops? Or make some new ones!

Pimp My Ride
Innovation is the way of the Free Cities, and showing it off is just as important. Every few years wagon enthusiasts will come forward with their customized New Magic-powered wagons in what they call the Wagon Parade. Locals line the main streets of Cadens to view the curious designs as they move from Portam Hall to the Grand Academy. A panel of judges in front of the Academy will vote on that year's best design. The winner receives a certificate and, most importantly, notoriety. There is also a crowd favorite award so attendees are encouraged to write their favorite wagon on a slip of paper. And there are several contenders this year. As with any event, pop-up merchants appear along the parade line selling food, drink, and all sort of small baubles and commemorative tokens.

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

◎ Settling In

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

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

Welcome to Solvunn

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

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

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

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

◎ Surroundings

The Primary Settlement is full of greenery, blessed with the fresh ocean breeze. Winds are gentle and temperate 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 booming as the celebration of the Spring Equinox is in full swing. Vendors are eager to barter goods and are in the habit of including extra gifts with any purchase or trades made. If you are looking for a good deal, now is the time!


• Those in Solvunn are openly discussing the recent execution of former Council member Josselyn Creed. Many believe justice was served and that the gods have set things right. If questioned, they will praise the Summoned for capturing Josselyn and restoring the Old Ways. The ashes of her bones remain on display by an altar in the Primary Settlement - a reminder and a warning not to stray from the flock.


• Though life in the Commune is beginning to resume as usual, you can sense that a major crisis has only just been resolved, and some of the fallout remains. There are also rumors of strange floating lights appearing on the furthest outskirts of the settlements.

◎ Exploring

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

Giant Crop Picnic
Potluck-style feasts are common in the settlement as a way to strengthen the community, but the spring is unique for featuring giant crops. Oversized gourds, melons, and cauliflower are aplenty as the locals display their creations proudly. Considered a blessing from the gods, receiving the boon of a large crop is a great source of luck and pride to Solvunn. As a new arrival, you can take a look at these unique fruits and vegetables - and eat them! - as well as help hang decorations before the picnic. Place flowers, pin ribbons, or lay the tablecloths. The food is simple and hearty, ranging from stews, roasts, fresh bread, and puddings. If you're shy, someone will be there to fill your cups and plates if you won't do so yourself. Eat, drink, and be merry - it's what the gods would want.

Acts of Love
Shrines around the settlements dedicated to Lyfbringr are overflowing with offerings. Flowers and all manner of sweet and bountiful things are the most common. It's also customary this time of year to present gestures of affection with one another in front of his effigies. You may see lovers, neighbors, friends, and even business partners make a show of embracing or shaking hands in hopes that their relationships will blossom like the spring flowers. Newborns of man and beast are also brought to be blessed in his presence. Newcomers are encouraged to set off on the right foot in the Commune by participating in this tradition, and begin their journey into High Magic.

A Weekend of Weddings
Weddings are popular in spring due to Lyfbringr's presence and this year is no different. Declan Gardsbruk and Tiril Blom, a handsome inheritor of the Gardsbruk Farms and a popular local singer, are getting married! While weddings in Solvunn are often a community affair, given the Gardsbruks' involvement with the Summoned, Solvunn's Summoned are explicitly invited as honored guests. Celebrated over several days, family and friends from across every settlement come to town. A bonfire blazes throughout the week. The height of the celebrations is the binding ceremony itself, held on the final day. The couple and their guests will gather by a shrine in the forest. Their union is made official underneath an arch of wood, reeds and seasonal flowers. The party continues until the following sunrise, symbolizing the beginning of a new life and partnership. In addition to attending, you can help weave the ceremonial wedding arch, keep the bonfire going, or simply enjoy the drink and music until you can't remember where you sleep.

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

◎ Settling In

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

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

Questions and Answers

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

How many slots are open?

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

How do I choose a scenario for my character?

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

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

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

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

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

Is the power loss for characters permanent?

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

Can my character leave the bounds of the nation?

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

Can my character eventually change nations or kingdoms?

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

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

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

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

Are TDM threads mandatory for my application?

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

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

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

Can my character go to the Horizon?

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

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

What about making use of the network?

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

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

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

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Comments

[oversurge]

Last night? Oh, shit. Good. That's great. Just what he wanted to hear. At least Rude's not from years gone by, so he'll take it. Last thing he needs is Rude trying to ask him where Veld went.

"This is past my pay grade."

So they're just gonna skip right over the multiple timelines bit. Someone else can tackle explaining that.

"Right, so—" He makes a sweeping gesture at their surroundings. "Thorne, big ass castle. They ride these things called horses instead of birds. Don't ask, I know it's weird. I'd send you a report on what's gone down, but as you can see, tech support's a little lacking around here."

And he still doesn't like the horses. Their massive teeth are fucked up.

[not_actually_a_bad_guy]

Rude knows when Reno wants to drop something. And saying something is past their pay grade is shorthand for drop something. Rude would very much like to know. But not enough to push his partner right now. Maybe later, when Reno seems less tense.

He smiles slightly at the mention of some other animal being used for riding, it sounded like Reno had beef with them. Tech support being lacking sounds like it is only the beginning of it. Rude has not seen anything that even resembles fire arms, phones, tvs, any sort of tech they are used to.

"But they got magic, huh?" He had gathered that part from what the kid had told him on the tour. He walks closer, sitting down on the bed Reno was lounging on. Glancing at the other beds in the room. Seems like they had dorms too, not something he is all that interested in, he had gotten plenty used to having his own space.

"Tell me they got booze at least?" He really needs a drink

Nocwich

[itookashot]

[ Jesper is not allowed in gambling dens but that doesn't mean he completely stays away from them. He usually can walk right by without any problem, but sometimes he ends up watching from a distance, hoping that maybe observing some good rounds will be almost like experiencing it. He knows he'll never escape it but denial is getting easier.

He's finally pulling himself away after hungrily watching for a good half hour when a stranger from in there sidles up to him. Jesper's not allowed his guns in Nocwich, an unfortunate reality of the peace, but his holsters are clear as day on his hips as if they're meant to be there. His bright green long coat flutters behind him as he moves. He raises an eyebrow at him, amused. ]

I am literally always hungry, so you've picked a good person as a distraction.

[ Jesper moves to the other side of Wolfwood since his colorful look and tall and skinny stature can be very distracting. By the time they'd look over, they probably would notice him more than his companion. He does it without words, the instincts of a team player. ]

They're pretty good at predicting cheating around here, mate, you'd best be careful.

[parce]

Thorne is...intriguing. There's a rambling, loud librarian and I got to eat some cake so honestly, it could be worse.

[ He thinks he wants to press on the whole Zoya thing but he decides to, for once, show some restraint. Even if he is utterly curious. ]

I haven't been warned about the politics. Are you going to do that now? I might be used to them but that doesn't mean I care for them.

[itookashot]

Thorne used to own this entire continent and then the others fought for their independence. Very likely what they want to do is get it all back, so they're looking for an excuse. They destroyed one of our cities last year, magic bombed it.

[ Jesper is not in Thorne so he can say whatever the hell he wants to about them. They're on a bench in Nocwich, it's always possible Thorne's being shady, but he figures Nikolai's new enough he wouldn't get in trouble to hear from an outsider. Even if Jesper in particular is someone Thorne has their eye on after publically calling them out last time he was here.

Whoops.]

It's a ceasefire for now, but likely not for long. And Thorne has a history of locking up its Summoned so you'd best be careful. Your royal mind will probably be very helpful to keep you out of drama.

[parce]

Ah, so I've landed myself right in the middle of yet another conflict. I thought maybe I'd get a vacation.

[ He hadn't really thought that and he hadn't wanted it either. That would have been boring. ]

They lock up people like you and I? Do you know the reasons?

[itookashot]

Well you can always have a vacation in the Horizon, it's a good place to take a break.

[The Crow Club is right there in the Horizon if Nikolai does ever go, so at least he'll see something familiar. It's identical to the one back home, albeit empty outside of the Crows themselves when they're inside.]

It was right after this began. I'd say perhaps they didn't know what they were actually in for when they started the spell, so they didn't trust anyone. But there's still a sort of threat hanging over the Summoned there, the monarchy does not like naysayers.

[ Again, something Nikolai might find familiar, at least. Jesper would have never done well in Thorne, he is too temperamental and quick to feeling suffocated. Free Cities is the only place he could have been happy. ]

Look up Rhy Maresh in Thorne. He's a prince himself, or he was, in his world. Also charming and handsome, you two would have a lot in common.

[Jesper flirts as easily as he breathes.]

nocwich.

[gynvael]

[ A few feet down from the gambling hall, Geralt is leaning against the roughened stone wall outside. He's either waiting for someone or passing the time by contemplating the cobblestone beneath his feet; doesn't much matter which when an unfamiliar face comes out of the swinging doors.

And then speaks to him.

He looks over. His irises shine an unnatural gold under the moonlight. He takes his time answering. Behind the other man, a few more heads emerge from the door. Their brows are knitted unhappily, their eyes searching.

Mm. Interesting. Really not his business, but apparently it's been made his business. So it goes. (He knew he should've picked that other wall across the road.)

He sighs, and tips his head for the stranger to follow. ] You know the wolves here do bite.

[leitstern]

[Jasper fails to laugh. He neither snickers nor grins and looks as though this conversation is the worst experience of his life.

But his lip twitches - in one corner with barely a tell - and his eyes have that spark of pleasure. The one gets when enjoying someone else'e misfortune.]

Hilarious.

[He replies with the driest tone imaginable.]

[leitstern]

[Jasper mirrors her language: his hands rest on his hips. But unlike her his eyes turn back towards the shrine. He murmurs his agreement and then offers his response.]

Indeed. I suppose we both have much to be grateful for.

[His nostalgic tone is barely above a whisper. His attention turning back towards the past instead of the present.]

[leitstern]

[Jasper's expression sours and curdles like expired milk. Were he criticising the jewellery, he would have never afforded it a glance, let alone offered a compliment. But time is precious and he cannot bother to correct this man's misconception.

He glances in the highlighted direction and takes in those sitting outside, enjoying food and drink. He wrinkles his nose.]

Fine. I suppose I have the time to spare.

[Now he isn't asleep or anything. Thanks, Abraxas.]

obstacle race

[subarite]

[Perhaps it's because Astarion has seen worse things, or perhaps it's because he's already dealing with an unbroken sequence of events in swift succession that he seemed unaffected. Or maybe he's just pushing aside how jarring his new state of affairs really is -- what he does have difficulty with is the uniforms. Well not so much the fatigues themselves, but the stark contrast between his appearance and the way they look on him.

Something else that doesn't agree with him is the fact that, like children, the weapons they have access to are practice weapons and currently Astarion is sporting a wooden bow and arrows with rubber tips. The absolute neck of it.

Still practice arrows are better than no arrows at all and it gives him something to do with his time and his hands, but he breaks eventually to watch the races take place because it's people and they are moving and therefore it's interesting enough. Does he need another reason?

His gaze is completely transfixed until another resident shakes him out of his trance-like observation with a nudge.]

Hmm? [He looks at the stranger inquisitively, red eyes bemused by the enthusiasm as he tries to recall what he'd heard.] Well if my ears didn't deceive me, I believed they wagered a menagerie of queens and...

[Clicking his tongue against his teeth he rolled his eyes upward thoughtfully as though trying to remember.]

...ah yes, a free round of whatever passes for ale here.

[Clearly Astarion isn't bound by the laws of reason, because a menagerie of queens makes no sense at all, but in fairness he has no idea what the currency entails...and it just sounds fun.]

[aquilus]

[The man is smart enough not to test his speed against an Assassin's blade, Altaïr will give him that much. And no more — certainly he won't be moving his weapon at all.]

Funny that you should deny what I didn't accuse you of.

[It speaks to consciousness of guilt in Altaïr's book. He ignores the question; there's no reason he should share his name with a potential enemy, and it's not as though they're going to be friends.]

There is no Brotherhood in Britain. And you have too many fingers to be an Assassin.

[yoke]

[ the holsters are the first thing wolfwood notices, if only because it's one of the few things here that is immediately familiar and recognizable to him. it puts into perspective, at least, what kind of guy he's currently dealing with: given nocwich's no weapons policy, it makes sense that they would be empty, but the fact that jesper is still wearing them anyway gives the impression that he is at the very least familiar with the weapons of his apparent choice. which, hey, works for wolfwood—like knows like, and all that. the green coat too, is an interesting choice; very bright and certainly distracting in the darkness of nocwich. kind of reminds him of another bright and cheery gunman he knows.

... actually, the vibes are pretty similar, if he thinks about it. cryptids in long, bright coats, but make it cute. ]

Yeah? Guess my luck hasn't run out yet.

[ they fall into step with each other, but wolfwood doesn't expect jesper shifting to his other side, the movement natural and seamless. interesting. wolfwood isn't complaining though, especially when his would-be pursuers end up passing him over to head in another direction entirely. ]

Think I got the idea. [ he breathes a low chuckle around the toothpick in his mouth, leftover from one of the drinks he'd had earlier. ] You speaking from experience?

[assembles]

[ There's a lot to process about the stranger in just the space of that response. The fact that he's never seen so many kinds of meat before, the sheer amount that he's ordering (seemingly just for himself), and that prosthetic arm.

It's nothing like Bucky's, but Steve can't help but draw the comparison all the same. A wooden one fits the general vibe of Abraxas a lot more than the best that Wakandan technology has to offer, though.

Since both of them now have their skewers in hand, Steve gestures for them to move to the side so they're not in the way of the line. As a New Yorker, he handles the flow of ordering and consuming street food with ease, and points out a bench where Vash can sit, even though he remains standing. ]

You might find it a little bit gamey, depending on what you're used to. I'm gonna take a wild guess and assume you're newly summoned?

[ The guy isn't behaving like a native, that's for sure. As Steve awaits a response, he takes a bite from his own skewer, closing his eyes briefly as the taste of the freshly cooked meat settles on his tongue. ]

[yoke]

[ geralt takes his time answering and wolfwood has half a mind to back off, feign ignorance and make up some excuse. sure, he's gone and involved the guy, but wolfwood doesn't mean to actively start trouble so soon after arriving. geralt surprises him though, and he gives him a little half-grin, clicking the toothpick he'd kept from a leftover drink over to the other side of his mouth as he falls into step with him. ]

So I gathered. [ behind them, the locals that followed wolfwood give up on their search, picking up on their grumbling as they trudge back into the den. the line of his shoulders eases slowly the further they become, and wolfwood takes a better look at his would-be savior. ] Is that something I gotta look out for with you too?

[rookvision]

You have a blade to my throat. I’ve killed enough Templars to know that’s enough accusation.

[He blinks at the man, racks his brain for any possible reason that he might believe the British Brotherhood is gone. Didn’t Evie mention something about a purge of Assassins back in the—ugh, when was this, 1700s?]

Your information’s a tad out of date. We’ve been around for ages, just—not in London. [As for the fingers, his eyes flick to the missing finger.] And our design’s much safer than yours is, evidently. We haven’t had to slice a finger off for a long time now.

[Evie would know just how long. Evie would probably not be in this situation in the first place, but Jacob’s good at talking his way out of trouble. At least he likes to think so.]

Look, if I was a Templar, do you think I’d waste my breath trying to convince you I’m not? You have a blade pointed at my bloody neck.

[theidlemaiden]

I mean I don't think they'd mess with it for more than a couple of reasons. They probably wouldn't know what to do with themselves if they saw something like this rolling around the Fodlan pastures, never mind knowing what to try and steal first.

[ Silly, sure. But she's just rolling with it at this point and can't help the surety in her own voice. The spectacle of something like this to a newly pulled Summoned who might not have any of this would be overwhelming!

Then again, it would be something she'd like to see. ]

Where did you learn all of this anyway?

[widows_kiss]

On the bright side? He just earned himself a hell of an extended vacation.

"Depends on who you look for a teacher around here. You might be able to learn some, but your best bet is finding one of the Summoned to teach you. Stephen or Istredd would be who I'd suggest, both have a lot of experience with magic, even before coming to this place, and they're good at passing that on. Istredd, especially, has taught a lot of the new arrivals here."

If he's smart, he'd keep their watchers around here in the dark about what he learns and has in his arsenal.

[not_actually_a_bad_guy]

He listens to her talk, nodding at the names and filing them away for later. This could be useful to know. He is starting to keep a running list of people and what they can do.

"I don't intend to rely on the magic, not my style, but it would be a waste to not try some." Especially if it is something he could exploit in a fight.

He offers her his hand for a shake.

"I didn't catch your name. I'm Rude"

[widows_kiss]

I figured. There's not too many of us here that it's pretty obvious when we start getting new faces wandering around.

[ She offers him a crooked smile in understanding, since it still feels not that long since she'd been in his shoes. And as that had been some of the information she'd sought out first, she knows just where to take him. ]

Come on, you want this section over here. I'll show you the ones I found the most helpful, too. There's a lot that were written by stuffy old men who were just too full of themselves. It makes for a somewhat biased account. [ She shoots him a grin over her shoulder as she moves off down an adjoining aisle, expecting him to join her. ]

[parce]

But I'm more charming and more handsome, aren't I?

[ Not that he's going to curl up and cry if Jesper says otherwise but he can't help the question. He grins as he says it, filing the name away to check into. ]

Anyway, I will take your advice and see if I can find this person. I suppose I should start making friends, shouldn't I?

[ Friends, connections, all of that. He knows that he can't do this alone. ]

How often does this place we're in right now allow people to visit?

[widows_kiss]

"It makes a very good supplement for skills at times." Considering all the illusion and shadow spells she's been working at, it had certainly been a useful tool on its own.

When he introduces himself, she arches an eyebrow and bites back the immediate retort, because she's sure with a name like that, he's heard every terrible joke in existence. Instead, she reaches out and takes his hand - always pleased when she finds someone who knows what a handshake is and doesn't just blink at her in confusion. "I'm Natasha. A pleasure to meet you, Rude. Welcome to Thorne."

[supersoldier]

That disdain sticks, though if Rude is wary that Sephiroth will do more than just frown rather intensely at him, shadowing his brow, then he needn't worry for now.

"I know you're freshly arrived, but you'll find that Shinra's classified information means very little here," he says. Though Sephiroth has the advantage of living in Abraxas for a long while now, where obligation to the company feels nearly like a distant dream.

"I just want to know the truth. And it seems like no one can give me that."

[itookashot]

[ Jesper never takes off the holsters for a few reasons, one of them being that they can be weapons themselves when it comes to him. The guns are only one aspect of the danger he can present, but they are the flashiest, usually. Guns are expensive and mostly popular in Free Cities, so he had to work up to them. He gets grumpy whenever he has to give them up. But for someone who can make buttons into lethal weapons, they're not ultimately necessary.

He's already given the man a very quick survey; experience studying people in case of trouble is a survivor's trick, one all the Crows are experts at. He's noted a dozen details about Wolfwood to file away. Intriguing. Interesting. As someone who loves to live off luck, he gets the energy. ]

More due to some casual sleight of hand.

[ AKA stealing, but he couldn't help but test boundaries when he gets to a new place. At the peace summit he stole so many things from the Thorne area that he still owns like trophies. He's a gunslinger over a thief, but it's more to get a sense of who he's dealing with. They're watchful, even for the sneakiest. ]

You'll see regular people here, but Nocwich is filled with werewolves and vampires. Fairly certain they have sharper senses and look for trouble. They're very serious about keeping the peace. I got tossed in a holding cell once for just yelling.

[ He pauses. ]

Maybe threatening with guns. It was a bad day.