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]

I don't got a culture.

[ He's it; that's all. It's just him. There's nothing or no one else in the whole cosmos like him. For better or for worse.

A moment later, and Rocket sets himself down to sit across from her at a still polite distance. ]

Eh, and I'm not very good at small-talk. [ His bushy tail swishes a little. ] But my name's Rocket.

[theidlemaiden]

[ The mismatched sleeves is a small detail but one that Hilda ends up noticing anyway. How people chose to present themselves always said a lot about them; but then again, maybe she was just reading into things and that's just how he happened to arrange his sleeve that day.

They may have just met but that didn't determine whether or not Hilda was going to be a little bit cheeky with a newcomer. ]

If I didn't have the time, I wouldn't be offering. [ That much is true when it comes to her. Unless it was work related - in which case she definitely wouldn't offer. ] And besides, getting lost is more fun with company, right? Not that I'll get us lost - that wouldn't make me a very good tour guide, would it?

[cointosser]

[Jaskier smiles, and this time it's a bit softer -- and more insistent. He can take his home, but it's free for the taking.] You needn't worry about a lack of care, but I'm afraid I have a whole park's worth of plants at home I take care of. And a store now.

[Which might be a hint towards why he was being so rude to his fellow merchant. Hah.]

Jaskier, if you will. [He takes the hand and squeezes it, then raises it to his lips to kiss the knuckles.] And forgive me for being too forward, but I dare say you might benefit from being a bit greedier.

[Honestly, Vash. You must learn to squeeze coin from the rich eventually.]

[mobezon]

It's how they say it, but I've known what the dangers of "advised" can come about. I'm not a fan of it, the blatant segregation, but we make do for now.

{ despite all his formality, louis still holds ambers to the radical that lived in him while he had to navigate a world that saw him for less. he sees it as it is, more than some on a skin-deep level. although abraxas doesn't hold any racist sentiments for what he's seen thus far, he isn't going to saddle someone new with a heavy topic that they may not understand. or they might. louis is beginning to understand people don't all have the same from earth. if asked, perhaps. but that's something to consider when there are summoned falling into factions and he can't comprehend the connections of why. all he knows is that he will keep an eye on the method itself since it's far too familiar.

that aside, louis' expression is open. he'll answer questions if needed, but he also understands it's an overwhelming experience. it can all slowly come out later, and he's sure vash will meet the others.

his bold statements are to be taken lightly. he does note the sadness to not returning home and curiously shifts his gaze back. }

You must have something to go back to if you're seeking a way out already. What's waiting for you back there, if I may ask?

[pundemic]

Oh.

（ must be lonely. she doesn't say it. she knows a sore spot when she hears one, too. she wrings a bit of dirty water out of one (kinda greasy, kinda dirty) hank of hair and then: ）

Uh... well, Rocket's a cool name. Like space ships, right? Fucking love space.

（ local child desperately searching for common ground. clearly: the answer is space. it doesn't even occur to her 'rocket' could just be a word in another language. she just hears rocket and thinks ship. ）

Like I guess the magic here's cool or whatever, but if I was going to get sucked up by some fucking interdimensional roomba and dumped out somewhere else that's not my own backyard, why couldn't it have been in space?

[vecna]

[Oh, he’s absolutely weird. Henry is a strange man, and that’s only in part due to being kept imprisoned in an underground lab for twenty years. Even as a child, social situations were difficult to maneuver around, and how he approaches such interactions as an adult—though certainly with more grace than ever before—still possesses an edge of offness about it. A careful, careful needling of consideration. The way he looks at someone, like trying to pry something out that hides from beneath the surface.

But, also. He’s friendly enough! :) (??? is he really) Case in point:]

Of course. I brought a couple. But you can use this one.

[The jar he was going to try to use for the spider hanging overhead, he now hands it to her, smiling.]

I saw another smaller spider hanging on the other side of this tree. One of the lower branches. Just grab a few twigs and leaves, put them in the jar, then try to ease the spider inside with another twig. Or your hand, if you’re not squeamish.

[Henry does it all by hand. Because of course he does.]

[theidlemaiden]

[ Woah, there. She's trying to be nice by not asking a painfully obvious question there that would probably get her in trouble, that's all.

Said question though is partially answered in his follow-up. And the blinking has less to do with the fact that she's slow on the uptake and more to do with trying to wrap her head around something she's never heard of before. ]

The military fatigues. They don't fit you very well. Plus, I'm part of the unofficial welcome committee - our paths would have crossed at some point! I'm Hilda, by the way. [ And at that she extends a hand out towards him. ]

[supersoldier]

[Now that's a question with a complicated answer. And while Sephiroth is keen on keeping such things close to the chest, the fact that this is a stranger, who would have no context whatsoever, actually makes it easier to speak on.

Even if the answer is generalized.]

I realized I don't want to work for that company any longer. They keep too many secrets. Even for a SOLDIER, I have to draw a line somewhere.

[Mostly, when that line was crossed and became personal.]

[itookashot]

Could be freeing to be something new, yeah?

[ In a way, it was for Jesper too. He misses the rush and risk of being a criminal, but he has made a decent life for himself here. Friends and found family. He doesn't have to worry that much about death constantly at his back (although sometimes that's fun). He uses his Grisha abilities openly.

Speaking of.]

In your universe, did you know I'm Grisha?

[ He's already figured out Nikolai's from the other one. It's how he talked about Alina. Not like she's long dead, the way she's supposed to be. It sounds recent. ]

I hid it all my life and then I came here and everyone's got powers.

[parce]

Everyone?

[ He's about to ask about Jesper's Grisha powers but that catches his attention first. ]

Even those that didn't have them before?

[respiting]

Yeah, just like space ships. [ Rocket agrees, because ... well, it kind of is.

It's why he called himself 'Rocket' to begin with, looking up into the skies and dreaming one day of flying rocket ships into that endlessness, exploring new frontiers, being free ...

He rubs at his nose. ]

Space is pretty cool. [ He allows, though he's still mighty curious about those odd scars on her arm and he's not polite enough not to glance back at them again. They look kind of like bite marks, but that's kind of weird.

Turns out, however, he's got enough sense in him to know when not to push something for the moment.

He exhales. ] So I'm guessing you've never been, huh?

[pundemic]

Ah... no, it's not really...

（ possible is the word she doesn't say. ）

My world's nnnnnot really into the whole space travel thing.

（ not for the first time, she wonders about all the people who had been in space during the outbreak. if they died. if someone brought them home. it's pretty horrible to imagine, you know? just sitting up there watching the end of the world. and then what else could they do but die up there? she bets it was lonely.

and helpless.

and hard. ）

But I've always dreamed about it.

[carmesi]

[maxine is kind of cool, too. wanda has never heard that name before, but she thinks it's endearing; feminine, but powerful, too. wanda doesn't actively try to reassure the girl that she is safe here any more than she already has. rather, she lets the silence and the spring breeze sweep them up in the peace that it brings from rolling across all this green.

no red skies appear, no threatening presence. sometimes it helps to not sense any of the things that cause such dread.

skies without the threat of air raids and bombs was hard for wanda to get used to at first, too.]

We are like newborns coming out of the pool after the summoning ritual. Even if he explained everything in detail, I don't think anything would stick. [she remembers when she first arrived, how it was another summoned who gave her peace of mind.] He's part of the Council here in Solvunn. Might be worth listening to him if they do have something to say.

[tidbits of what life is like here, for max to become familiar with in bitesize portions.

but, now, why does hawkins sound so familiar?]

Yes. It's no longer a country where I am from. I think it isn't a country in most worlds.

[with a smile, she lets her accent really show for a moment as she says the following:]

Eastern Europe. We had many delicious foods and we were surrounded by beautiful mountains. [but, then, she drops it.] I lived in New York for a few years. [.....hawkins.....] Are you familiar with a Steve? Older than you, good looking, brown hair? I forget his last name.

[carmesi]

['thank you' in rocket-speak is good enough for wanda.

without little warning, she claps her hands on her lap and rises back to her feet.]

I better get to showing you where it's at, then. [the farm, that is.] You can join us for dinner, too. Himeka is a really great cook.

[and maybe it's as easy as that, for a former avenger to welcome the captain (no one tell her) of the guardians of the galaxy into the fold.]

[itookashot]

Yeah, mate, everyone. You included.

[ For Jesper who always was scared of his abilities, it was a very sudden change, but it led to him opening up himself in the best of ways. He has seen how much other people have taken to magic. Not that Nina would like him calling it that, she was very precise about Small Science, but Jesper just rolled his eyes and said 'close enough.'

He thinks it would probably be surreal for someone like Nikolai who had to deal with all the Grisha around him but never had powers himself.]

You're in Thorne, you can ask someone there to train you, they're very into magic. You could pick one of the Grisha sects and become one if you wanted to. Even sun summoning or something like it.

[squatmance]

Just- somewhere I lived, for awhile. Not a farm. We, uh, didn't really have the land. [He's been in several New York apartments bigger than the little scrap of grass around the cottage he and Eliot shared.] There was a little village, though. Looked kind of like this.

[Which is of course completely at odds with his next answer.]

And yeah, New York. Well - New Jersey, originally, but New York City since college.

[squatmance]

[Oh, okay, that's... disappointing yet unsurprising.]

And here I was thinking I'd wound up in the nice fantasy universe for once.

[It's muttered halfway to himself, more sarcastic than bitter; after all this time, does he have any reason to expect a world that doesn't feature mass slaughter? At this rate, he's really, really holding out hope that this isn't his afterlife, however little sense it makes.]

Where, uh. Where were you Summoned from?

[hairington]

[ vash has already asked more about it than steve was ever really interested. turns out growing up in a small town also meant that he just....doesn't really think to ask about going anywhere else. except for nocwich, apparently, but that's different.

the only reason steve even knows any of this are the people, geralt who's in the cities and robin who'd ended up in thorne. that had opened a whole can of worms he hadn't realized was just. sitting there. and now?

well, now not much has changed. he's still here, and robin went home. it's kind of depressing if he thinks about it for too long.

at the question, though, steve nods. ] Yeah- Thorne's got this whole uh. Weird castle and wizards and politics thing going on. The people from over there are kind of scary? From what I heard. [ aka, from what robin told him. ] The Free Cities I don't know a lot about, but I think they're in the like? Desert? I think?

[carmesi]

[wanda purses her lips for a moment, blinking a few times in succession as she looks about, lost in thought a little. when she speaks again, the quality of her accent is a little stronger—maybe because she means her words to be a little playful.]

I can promise you that this place is unlike anything you think you know.

[he's just arrived, so there is so much to know.

with a small smile, she stops, and motions with an arm towards the stream just a few feet from them. he can go at it to get as much mud as he can from himself.]

Another person from the East Coast. We have plenty of New Yorkers. [is she ignoring new jersey? yeah. she doesn't want to think about new jersey right now.] Strange question, [she starts, finding a large rock to lean against.] but what year is it for you? 2025 from when I come from.

[satanicpanics]

Oh, you know, just the most phenomenal fantasy universe anyone could ever dream up.

[ He snorts, trying to lighten the mood just a little. Solvunn isn't doing a good job doing that itself. ]

I’m kidding. Indiana.

[ More like a creepy alternate dimension that just happens to have an entrance in Indiana, but he still really doesn’t like thinking about what happened down there, so a simple “Indiana” it is. ]

Dante Reyes >>> Fast X >>> The Tower

[dante_enchante]

<<< Thorne - Arrival >>>

Two minutes. Two full minutes Dante had once died while floating in water like this. Lost, consciousness ebbing until there wasn't anything but darkness. Not remembering the hands that pulled him out then even as a hand grabs him now. Fighting both against the hold and to grip their forearm hard, hauling himself up and out of the water with a man who might brag about his death (two minutes of it) but wasn't ready to relive it.

He flops back onto the stones, gulping down breaths of air, the world around him coming into sudden and sharp focus. The light. The voices of other. The uncomfortable scrape of stone across his butt as he sits up. There's talk about where he is, but none of it makes sense. Blinking as he pushes sodden strands of his hair out of his eyes.

"Where are my clothes?"

Someone comes forward with... okay there's cloth involved but...

"No, not that. My clothes. Something with a designer label?"

Whatever the hell this is, it's not going well already.

<<< Thorne - Castle and settling in >>>

He's still wrapping his head around how they did it, but that whole magic hand wave tailor thing is something Dante could get used to. A pair of Gucci slippers would be nice, and something with some real color, but it's a start.

Wandering through the castle, Dante handles himself like he owns the place. Sure it's not the villa in Rio but a castle in wherethefuckistan he is might be the next best thing. Listening though the entire time, one to be patient while he gathers all the information he needs to make his move.

There's definitely no denial of a slice of cake or two, and when they mention decorating cupcakes, he figures why not. It's actually a lot of fun making a handful of lavender cupcakes, indulgent in frosting and touched with whatever sparkling edible glitter or dragees might be about.

He glances up at someone else doing the same. "So... you around for this so called execution I heard about?"

Definitely cake decorating talk, right? He might be a bit too interested as he dabs a bit of the frosting onto a spoon and casually licks it off.

The whole concept of a shared bedroom is kind of beyond Dante. Only child syndrome much? He considers the room from the door, moving to one of the beds. He pokes at the pillows and toys with the curtains before flopping down onto the bed with a sound of pure disgust as he drags a pillow closer and shoves it under his head.

"If someone snores, I'm going to find some creative uses for that protection spell," he mutters. "I am not losing my beauty sleep."

<<< Thorne - Magic lessons and Playing in the Stacks >>>

Magic is real. Magic. Actual wizards and witches and spells and freaking real. There's a lot of science and technology that runs pretty damn close to what he thinks of as magic, the God's Eye for one. This though, this is the closest Dante has come to feeling like a kid in a long time... except that he's never really grown up.

He takes the field though, listening as they recite the magic words. He goes over them in his head as others around him practice. Some work. Some pop in blinding light.

Only when he's sure he's got them does Dante try. At first there's nothing but a second time, with more of a conviction to the words, and there's a shield of light before him.

"Well I'll be damned." He's grinning though, his mind already going over the possibilities of what he could do with actual magic at his fingertips. None of it is good.

Later when he's looking for more information on magic, he finds himself voluntold to help move books. Maybe less told and more compliments to his strength and physique but whatever it was, it worked.

He's supposed to be moving books. What he's actually doing is perched on a stack of books in a corner, flipping through anything he can find on magic. He might be in the way but he hasn't thought about that yet.

<<< Nocwich >>>

"Vacation time. Better be worth it."

Not that Dante's done much since he arrived, but he's heard talk and done a bit of research in the time he's had, and he's curious about the access they have... and others he might run into.

He might be playing up the idea of a vacation but the truth is, Dante is eager to gather information. It might take time, but then he's used to lying low and finding out everything he needs to know and putting it all into place.

He's also interested in spoiling himself. He's a man of both worlds.

So he checks out the shows offered, explores the gambling dens to take in how the odds seem to play, and finds himself wandering the market. At one point he finds a ribbon in practically the right shade of purple, and he glances up with puppy dog eyes at the nearest person.

"Buy a new guy a hair tie?"

<<< Wildcard >>>

(ooc: open to pretty much anything in Thorne or Nocwich. He's likely to be exploring everywhere to lay down the groundwork for his new kingdomlife. I can be found at mythotica to discuss details or bounce ideas off of.)

Nocwich market

[blackeyedprince]

Kell stares, not in the slightest respectfully, at the mountain of a man making sweetest puppy eyes at him.
The werewolf owner of the stand shamelessly giggles her heart out right as she shots him a pointy look and coos.

"Come on, Kell, don't be a miser."

He looks around. Their little scene has already begun to attract attention. Kell lets out a tortured groan. Seriously, last thing he needs now is a spectacle.

"Fine."

He drops the coins on her outstretched palm, takes the ribbon from her ignoring the wide toothy grin she flashes at him. He passes the ribbon to the guy.

"There. Welcome to Abraxas"

Or something. Kell's deep scowl doesn't match his words.

[dante_enchante]

Dante literally bats his lashes at the man, not looking at all as if he's playing games with those soft, needy look. Not bothered by others watching, used to being the center of attention because, well, he makes sure he is. Even here and now.

"Awww, Kell. What a sweet name," he coos, laying it on thick, because he already knows he's going to get what he wants. Normally he might just take what he wants, but he's still feeling things out here and finding out just how much he can get away with.

Besides, watching the guy begrudgingly hand over the coin for the ribbon. The ribbon that Dante cheerful plucks from his fingers when its offered.

"Aren't you the sweetest, Kell," he says, artfully twisting his hair up into a perfectly messy bun and securing it with the ribbon. "They don't sell scrunchies here and, well, they took mine. I can call you Kell, right?"

Since he already is.

Lowering his arms he offers a bright, winsome smile. "I'm Dante," he says, dropping into a shallow curtsey. "Enchanté." He pauses, considering something. "Did that just rhyme or not? Because earlier I was speaking Spanish to like feel out where we are, and everyone understood me and I'm beginning to think their magic is really going to mess with my vibe."

[blackeyedprince]

The amount of cheerful babble coming from this guy is enough to make Kell bristle. Doesn't help that in his long, dark coat with a brooding look the contrast he makes with the man - who had somehow managed to wear to the usual drab and dull stock Thorne garb as if it was finest silks - is pretty comical.

"That's my name, so yeah you can."

And then the very same huge man delivers a graceful if shallow curtsey. Kell blinks, slowly. It takes no small amount of effort not to let his jaw drop. He has no resolve left to keep himself from stuttering though.

"I-it does, actually." Kell admits with a sigh, resigned to his fate that now everyone around them is blatantly staring at the commotion with utter glee. Say what you will about werewolves, but Saints don't they like a good show. "This is how magic works here. The part that affects all of the Summoned. You have to make a conscious effort to get the words through in their original form."

[parce]

I think I'll leave the sun summoning to the saints.

[ That just feels like a very fast way to finding himself hunted even more so than he is. He knows he's not where he was, that he's not in their world but still —

It's hard to shake that thought. ]

But suddenly becoming a Grisha? That has its advantages. I could make my family oh so proud of me.