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

[respiting]

[ Black ain't half-bad either and he'd say as much too.

But the point really is to load a vehicle with enough defensive and offensive gadgets and gizmos as possible. Not only because it's a worthy precaution to have in a dangerous situation, but also? Because it's freakin' fun.

To the man's question though, Rocket shrugs his furry little shoulders. ]

Eh, I dabble. Guess you could say I've got a keen interest in this kinda thing. Well, making things better. Wagons themselves? Not so much.

[respiting]

Whoa! Where the hell did you come from?

[ And why does he remind him so much of Drax?

Whatever, never mind that. ]

You shouldn't be eating rotting heads. You know, F-Y-I.

And I'd get him to swap our placEEES

[madmaxed]

( lungs constrict, air passing thin as she nearly clips a stranger in the shoulder in her hurry. the cart passes between them and panic rises — as though he'll be gone when the path clears, as though this is a false hope, a hallucination in some cruel effort to starve out whatever remaining hope she's had from before and all the memories come here careen back, intrusive and irreparably violent.

but he's still there when cart is pushed passed and they're all that more closer. he's still there, not some morphed monster wanting to lull her into complacency (as though she hadn't lost already).

she doesn't even think on the absurdity of the gesture when she flings her arms around him — there's no complicated thread of timeline to consider, yet unfamiliar to the concept. there is simply the fact that the last time anyone saw each other might have been the literal last.

it might be weird — no it's definitely fucking weird of her — but her ear is pressed into his chest just long enough to hear the rhythm of a beating heart, to feel the rough-spun linen of some stupid peasant shirt and she has to peel herself away before it gets too weird, before it's too obvious how she's barely holding herself together with stinging eyes and she has to stumble over words to regain control back. ) Yeah — yeah. Got scooped out from that stupid pond, like, a couple of hours ago?

( arms cross over her chest, brows pinch as she looks over him a little more closely — as though trying to piece together answers before she even asks: ) Did you? I mean — ( did it work? she can't ask. can't bring herself too. ) — is this real?

( dumb question. she doesn't care. can't stop herself from noticing changes that weren't there before on the face of steve harrington: no mottled bruises on the neck, still too-purple in her mind, blood too close to the surface. clothes that seem to fit less oddly than her own feel. there's a sinking feeling as she waits, posture stock-still, frozen in some liminal flight or fight. )

he's just a spicy little trash panda

[respiting]

[ Rocket tilts his head upwards to meet the woman's eyes.

His nose twitches.

Hearing that instinctively gives him one of those knee-jerk reactions that comes along with knowing exhaustion and annoyance all in one neat little package. ]

A god, huh? [ Rocket drags a paw down his face with an exasperated groan. ] Why is it always gods? So what did this guy want? And what did she even do to get the ash treatment?

[nomnoms]

[ Nanaue stops scuffing his foot and stares down at the furry beast with dark, curious eyes.

Raccoons are not really part of his natural diet, despite this one standing on two legs. ]

Live here, me! [ he answers the first question with pride, pointing to his chest. When he first arrived someone made him a kilt of leather (though he misses his golf shorts). His bare chest and face are nicked with many little scars, almost invisible except when he turns and the light hits the right way.

The second statement seems to befuddle him. ]

Taste good.

[ He has been strictly banned from eating people so far. But he hasn't given up hope! ]

plates and shoes

[aquaveiled]

[ Himeka has been watching a bit herself, simply because that's what she enjoys doing--people watching. You can learn a lot about someone just by how they interact with others and the environment around them. Sure, she has her own offerings to make to the shrine, but she's just as content to enjoy the aura of affection the required "ritual" provides.

Especially after how dark the last few months had been, with the kidnappings, the horrifying experiments... strange to think it wasn't all that long ago. Solvunn seems to have blossomed once justice had been served.

"Justice", as they see it.

But when this man seems to have second thoughts after watching so many others make their offerings, Himeka decides to step in--literally. She steps out, partially in the way but sporting a smile. ]

Were you next?

[wasalmostdaphne]

[Bay is like 70% sure this time it wasn't her fault. She also absolutely didn't catch what he said.]

Could you say that again now that I'm facing you, please?

[She's sounding a little put out because she is not used to this and does not get how Daphne or Emmett deals in crowds. Other than remember they don't go to crowded places.]

[vecna]

[Solvunn is more verdant-looking than the angry, shale-strewn vista of the Upside Down. Not that Henry would know, having only been tossed about by a raging storm, whorling and disoriented. Still, comparatively, the hill they stand atop, with its single shade tree, is much better.

When she shifts, another jar clinks, topples, and begins to gently roll down the hill. Henry watches, then lifts his eyes to look at her with his brow vaguely arched.]

How about... if you retrieve that for me, I'll show you.

[He could grab it himself--it takes no effort with a bit of telekinesis, but this young girl is a stranger; moreover, she's the one who knocked it down the way, so why should he have to retrieve it?]

( mwahahaha never be sorry )

[tinkerheart]

[A sudden flash of blinding light from one of the group students that somehow coalesced around his person is met with burst of unrestrained and frankly rather cruel laughter.]

That would make more sense if planned to blind everyone and yourself. At least you have good aim.

[The poor student visibly shrinks with an utter confusion on his face. Was he just praised or insulted? Or both? It's both. With Fëanor it's usually both.
There's no way for him to clear the confusion, because Fëanor's attention is on someone else completely. Someone who has just entered the practice room, but is ostensibly not interested in the general commotion. Someone who lacks the shadow hanging over everyone else. Or does he?
Fëanor leaves the group without a word and crosses the room straight to the person that caught his interest.]

Who are you?

[He demands. It is what he always does. No hello, no introductions. Those are pointless when what he really wants to know is if the other person is also an Elda.]

Nocwich

[everybodysterrible]

[Abby recognizes that look, the look of someone far too new to this place contemplating something far too stupid. She wore it not too far away from today. In that she regularly contemplated stupid things to this day. Just- not stealing from the night market in the land of vampires and werewolves. She'll just, hand some coin to the shop owner.]

Covering that for her.

[Abby's definitely not dressed like one of the Solvunn Summoned. With her tight pinstripe pants, sleeveless blouse, and black underbust corset. She'll give Max a smile and wander off to sit down at a nearby picnic table. In case the girl wishes to follower her.]

[politicians]

[ elrond purses his lips. lets a brief silent linger enough for it to border on rude before he musters his most coolly polite tone. ]

Greetings, Lord Fëanor. Is there a problem?

[supersoldier]

Then next time, you should enter. Surprise everyone with a wagon full bursting at the seams with machine guns.

[He says it in a dry, twisting way, that suggests maybe he isn’t wholly serious. Yes, maybe he should enter his own ingenious wagon to be a part of the parade — but he’s sure there’s some rule against functioning weapons for the sake of safety. Please don’t make his job actually more difficult.]

What do you usually work on?

[leitstern]

[Minutes are spent in observation. Seconds drag by and are wasted in a flash - his attention diverted towards a young woman who appears to be enjoying this nonsense.

He looks down at his bundle of flowers. Memories shake his ego but vanish in a moment. His expression twists from discomfort to some kind of contemplation. Time has already taught him all sorts of lessons. It might as well soften those aspects of him that others find difficult.]

Indeed.

[Once he would have said it matters not. Today, after his experiences, he has something different to say as he lays his offering upon the shrine.]

Thank you.

[respiting]

[ And here he'd been hoping for more familiar Guardians of the Galaxy-shaped faces, but he supposes beggars couldn't be choosers in a situation like this one.

Not that he really remembers much about her though. He had been a little busy. ]

Oh, yeah! You're uh — the lady who's friends with the Captain guy. And the guy with the arm. [ A brief beat before he adds a little wistfully: ] Man, I really wanted that arm.

[ Anyway — ]

How're you doing?

[ A little former colleague small-talk before an altar of ashes — well, that's no big, right? ]

[leitstern]

[Jasper stops in his tracks.

He swirls around with an incredulous look on his face. Is this woman deaf?]

Excuse me?

[A statement of incredulity and a request that she repeats herself. He expects an apology but, well, fat chance of that happening.]

Settling in.

[wasalmostdaphne]

Waking up with the sun is a new and annoying experience, but not without some value. These gardens were gorgeous, and she happily sat down, sketching away on a spare bit of parchment some of the flowers that did not exist on Earth. With a stranger, but she did need to get to know people if she was going to get used to this second upset to her entire life.

He hadn't said anything, she hadn't said anything. Or maybe he did while she was staring at the flowers and- right, she should probably explain that. "If you want to talk to me, make sure I'm looking at you or I won't understand what you're saying. Just catch my sight and I'll turn and probably get what you're saying."

Automatically knowing an entire new set of words by sight was, to say the least, jarring. But it meant she wasn't as lost as she would be otherwise.

[wasalmostdaphne]

I have the feeling you said something, but since I couldn't see your lips. I don't know what you said.

[Her eyes aren't focused on the whole of his face, she's looking exactly at his lips as she waits for whatever it is he's about to say.]

Jake Jensen | The Losers | The Fool

[killorder]

Thorne

North Wing

The clothes are... okay really nice but also he would probably break a lot of laws for a chance to get some jorts. There's so many question he's had since he came up out of the water, and there's magic, and nothing of it all makes sense.

But standing there, trying to get information from the guards and not getting it, he's facing one thing that makes a lot more sense to him if he someone would answer him. Finally he turns on the first person coming through the door either way.

"Hey. Have you been here long? What's with the guards? Just who are they protecting us from?"

Exploring

Jake has landed into the tabletop fantasy game of his dreams. He's dressed in silk and sandals and living in a damn castle. Not that he's not desperate for some answers - like just what he was given that he's considering his future as a bard because, dammit, what else would he play??? - but also just seeing what this place is about.

So he finds himself drawn in to work on decorating cupcakes. It's something that he's never done before, but after two slices of cake, he figures he should play along. After all, they're probably edible.

Later in the day he gets drawn into the library to help haul around scrolls and capture... bookworms. HA! He loves that part. He throws himself into it. If nothing else physical labor is easy and something he's good at even if he's starting to have technology withdrawals.

"So like is there like no computers? What about phones? I mean, how do people communicate?"

He might be asking someone directly, or he's just talking to himself. You never know.

But when he finds classes on learning magic!? Oh yeah, he's diving into that. Not that he can entirely focus, just mesmerized every time someone makes a shield form, the flash making his heart race.

He finally finds his focus, the shield flaring up before him and he... well, he squeaks, eyes wide.

"Woooow. Holy shit it's real. I'm real. I'm going to be a freaking wizard."

Solvunn

Surroundings

The Gods have spoken

That never seems like safe words. If only because in so many movies that seems to precede: And you will be sacrificed for a prosperous season.

And as he wanders this place, Jake is beginning to wonder if that isn't what's going on.

He gives small nods to people as they wander past him, adjusting his tunic and trying to make sense of it all. After all the talk in the ride over, he's not sure what to make of it all. People staring, the smiles and generosity. He offers smiles, and he gives little waves at people, but all the while he's got this thought in the back of his mind.

A thought that involves wicker forms and pretty girls in flower crowns and, yeah, sacrifice.

So of course he finds himself standing there, listening to others talk about the blessings and the works of gods and talk of Old Ways and...

"Wait, that was a person?!"

He blurts the words out before he can help himself, back up a step. He's a man who has blown up buildings with people in it, and killed in the name of defense and his country but this is sacrifice.

Exploring

Despite his misgivings, Jake is doing his best to fit in though. Even as crazy as this whole place feels. Except there's something about it that's comforting, when he puts the sacrificial ash out of his mind at least.

The generosity of everyone at the picnic though is nice to see, something he's not used to as he helps set things up. Hanging decorations, setting tables, and generally making himself as useful as people need him to be.

As the events of the week go on, Jake tries and avoid a lot of it. In the end he finds himself helping out at the wedding. He works on the arch when asked, then takes time tending the bonfire so others can party and enjoy themselves. Despite himself, he hates turning down their generosity and after realizing the wine he's given isn't dosed - no judging him! there are sacrificial bones in the square, okay? - he is more than willing to accept another.

As the night winds down, he finds himself sitting by the bonfire, staring into the flames. He's talking to... someone. Himself maybe? Someone nearby?

"It can't be that bad, right? I mean, not even an efsigeeee... wait, that's not right. I mean, no men in wicker, right? All good then. I hope," he mutters, flopping onto his back. Which is when he realizes he's not alone.

"Oh. Hi. Why are you upside down?"

He might not realize he's laying down.

Nocwich (with him coming from any faction)

Given his pendant, Jake takes the time they have in this other city. He's heard stories and there's definitely things going on here that, like so much of this world he's found himself in, is supposed to be stories.

Except like the rest, this isn't.

So there's a curiosity there that has to do with what he thinks is fantasy more than what he's used to. So if he hears anyone talking about vampires or werewolves, he's likely to eavesdrop. Very openly. Maybe a bit rudely.

Wildcard

(Considering factions for Jake. I had him on the tdm before in Free Cities, and open to prompts from there as well if anyone is interesting. Either throw something at him from any of the factions, of Nocwich, or ping me at mythotica for me to write a starter.)

arrival

[aquaveiled]

[ It happens not to be just any old tree. It's not as tall as others that start to mark the grove situated just outside the settlement, but ample shade is provided by the weeping branches and leaves, dotted with bright red flowers that are somehow still in bloom. Though she cannot see in this state, Himeka senses an unfamiliar presence situate itself at her base.

She takes this form more often when she is trying to reconnect with the land and fulfill the promise she made to a particular deity in this realm, or when she wishes to enter the Horizon. Now, it's the former, making her lucid enough to start to get vague impressions of aether in the shape of a girl, closed in on herself.

It's a thinking position, but not a wistful one. The kind where someone feels the need to protect themselves.

Slowly, one of the branches lowers itself, inch by inch, to rest a flowery tendril on the girl's shoulder. ]

cloud strife ( ff7r )

[unsocials]

THORNE
[ supposedly, he can't just.. leave, and after getting a look at the borders being so heavily guarded, he certainly gets that it's not going to be a simple matter if he tries. even so, he'd made himself scarce pretty much as soon as he was free to do so, and spent the next couple of hours exploring the castle and the surrounding town.

he stops by the library and decides that's a mess best left to others, looks for and doesn't find his personal belongings in his assigned quarters (disappointing), and finally winds up near the outskirts, inevitably drawn to the poorer sections of any city. and more importantly, perhaps, the lights that popped up there as he was drawing near. he winds up walking into the midst of them-- reckless, maybe, but they don't seem harmful, and they remind him of some of the simpler, prettier effects of materia. ]


FREE CITIES
[ cloud's pretty small by soldier standards at home, but that doesn't seem to matter much the minute he gets his hands on a practice sword. sure, his mako-enhanced abilities are missing for now, but his training certainly hasn't gone anywhere. he's still fast and deadly-- maybe a little too deadly for the training field, actually. he can get a little.. lost, especially after what just happened at home.

still, if someone calls him on it, he's swift to apologize.. and also call the training session short. maybe.. maybe he's not really ready to be doing this without taking a little time to process, actually.

otherwise, the military camp feels familiar, like things had been before he'd left shinra employment. it's a little too simple to fall back into old habits, so he's grateful for cadens and the things that take him out of his martial mindset.

although.. the magic workshops are sort of sketchy, right? he's definitely frowning pretty obviously at the display of a lamp, for instance. ] .. Where does the magic.. come from, though? [ this feels like shinra during the early days, when people had thought mako and magic were unlimited resources. ]


SOLVUNN
[ though this place is very different, it admittedly reminds cloud of nibelheim.. a little. it's smaller and slower and simpler than somewhere like midgar, and the focus on farming and community are a lot like his hometown. of course, unlike his hometown, they apparently recently executed someone, and here are her bones. on display, a morbid, awful warning to everyone who sees them.

had she deserved to die? he has no idea, he wasn't here for all that. but the indignity of not being allowed to rest in death is pretty fucked up, even by his standards (and he'd worked for shinra).

still, despite his uneasiness, cloud attends the picnic later, in large part because he gets his calories where he can, and the food here is familiar and enjoyable. he isn't shy about piling his plate high. he also takes the time to observe some of the giant vegetables, filled with a weird, almost painful nostalgia about it. he's sort of an odd figure, though-- slight and blond, but a loner, frowning faintly anytime someone looks his way. seriously, cloud, lighten up a little. ]


WILDCARD
[ he'll also check out nocwich if someone wants to do a thing there. alsjf i know these are pretty generic prompts, so if none of them work, feel free to pm and i'll come up with something specific for our characters! ]

[leitstern]

[His lips twist, purse and flatten into a line. Twitches in the corners of his mouth reveal underlying impatience - but he swallows it down and stares coldly.]

Then address you I shall. Do you always refuse to watch where you are going?

[tinkerheart]

[To notice the silence being on the verge of rude, would require him to allow the notion of someone being rude to him. That very rarely happens. He'd rather assume the other did not hear his question - with all the explosions, not unlikely - and well prepared to repeat his question.]

There is not.

[Other than you not answering his damned question!]

I do not recall you, but you're clearly an Elda.

[He thought he's the only one here, but it's useless to repeat the obvious. So he doesn't.]

he deserves as much trash as he wants

[aquaveiled]

[ Himeka nods, crossing her arms as her tails starts to twitch behind her. They've known the gods were real for some time now, but hearing that one actually made a physical appearance for the event does make her wonder if she should have gone for herself... ]

Always gods?

[ She cocks a brow at that. ]

Well, she had betrayed not only the Commune but orchestrated the kidnapping of Summoned all over the realm, put them through torture and disfiguring experiments, and killed several Abraxans in the process. She used to be on the Solvunn Council. So...I imagine they wanted to make a point that not even the highest ranking among us are above the law or will of the gods.

[ Which is kind of a terrible introduction to things, isn't it? Despite the grim details she offers a lopsided smile. ]

I suppose this is when I should say "welcome to Solvunn", isn't it? Welcome!

North Wing

[wasalmostdaphne]

"I have no idea. I've been having the weirdest week of my life and I only got here yesterday. I would guess, since we're not from around here, that we're rare and valuable and possibly kidnapping worthy?"

Bay's eyes are focused on Jake's lips more than they are on any other part of his face. And have been since he started talking to her. She takes a bit better to the grimm's fairytale wardrobe she was given with a dark green dress that does amazing things to her hips than she'd like, but she still moves like she has no idea what to do in this dress.

[wasalmostdaphne]

No, I'm watching where I'm going. I just haven't gotten used to not being able to hear anything around me.

[Should she explain? Yes probably. Will she explain? Not to this jerk. Besides, he should just trust his jackass instincts, he did already figure it out.]