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.

---

return to main navigation

Comments

vash the stampede | trigun stampede | death

[boltaction]

> solvunn - unattended

[ he can't get over how green this place is.

sure, both ships five and three had their arboretums, but they had been carefully maintained and manicured. nothing had been allowed to run amok; the flowers were pruned regularly and the trees were trimmed back when their growth spun out too far in one direction over the other. the upkeep had been meticulous and everything was documented, from the water retention of the soil to the oxygen saturation.

the same cannot be said for the wild nature of solvunn. the humans here let the grass grow as high as his knees, preferring to let the grazing of their livestock keep any overgrowth in check. anything that their goats weren't keen to nip to size, it was nothing a couple hours swinging a sickle couldn't manage. and then they'd bundle that, too, setting it out to dry for the winter months.

the diversity of the flora here is also beyond his wildest imagination. it reminds him of aged pastoral paintings he'd seen long ago while browsing the holo-library when he was young. their pale blue skies and abundant forests reflected an old earth he himself would never get to experience except through the artistic medium of long-dead artists, encyclopedias, and documentaries.

and yet, here it is. right at his fingertips.

he's standing just at the edge of the settlement, bent at the waist, fingers gently cupping the head of a wild daisy like it's the most wonderful thing he's ever seen... and not just a common weed. ]

> solvunn - a weekend of weddings

[ the minute vash had stepped foot into the clearing where the primary celebrations were halfway between still being set up and already in full swing, he'd drafted himself into helping. nothing was too small or too laborious. he helped stack chopped wood near the bonfires, delivered baskets of flowers and reeds to the people braiding together the ceremonial arch, and even assisted a rowdy group of little girls weave ribbons through their plaits. that last one had been the most difficult-- he still wasn't used to his new prosthetic, and anything that asked for fine motor skill was, uh, a learning process. thankfully they'd been mercifully patient and happy with the final results.

when he'd moved to find some new place he might be needed, a woman had gently forced him back into his seat and put a flagon in his hands, telling him that he ought to take it easy. she insisted. a nearby man had grunted in affirmation, making vash flush bashfully. instead of making excuses, or trying to assure them that he really liked making himself useful, he responded: ]

Thank you for the drink... I will.

[ neither of them leave him be until he's drank at least half the contents of the mug in his hands. by then it feels like a waste to not finish it down to the drop; it didn't hurt that it was also really delicious. so he settles in, legs loosely crossed at the ankles, sipping his mead as a colorful tapestry of people, music, and dance wreathes around him.

it's been an age since he's truly been able, or allowed, to relax, and he guesses it must have been be obvious. ]

> nocwich

[ nocwich is both darker and brighter than he expected. before stepping through the portal, he'd been told that the land that lay across the magical divide was enshrouded in eternal night. he'd been prepared to watch his step as reality shimmered and melted around him, expecting to need a moment for his eyes to adjust, only to be greeted by the warm and myriad lanterns of oleuni square. though it's a far cry from the midday sun he'd just left behind, it's not so drastically different as to leave him blinded.

if vash weren't so used to the markets that established themselves at the gangplanks of docked sandsteamers back on no man's land, the sheer magnitude of the sights, smells, sounds, and the throng of people responsible for it all might've otherwise been overwhelming. instead he steps into the crowd as if this were his hundredth visit and not his first, eager to familiarize himself. he lingers at several stalls, longer at the ones selling food, before one spilling over with an abundance of strange flowers takes a firm hold of his attention.

he reaches to touch one of the softly glowing blossoms, and thinks better of it, dropping his hand instead to fish into his jacket pocket where he'd stashed a few coin for the trip. ]

How much? And, uh, how do you care for it? Should I put it somewhere dark?

Nocwich

[cointosser]

[Jaskier often takes his trips to Nocwich solely for pleasure, but this time he has much more intention. While he is taking his first steps into true venture capitalism, he is mostly figuring it out as he goes.

Which… it simply makes sense to scope out his competition, doesn’t it? Or to even scalp their customers? Not all plant stores are created equal, and Jaskier is sure already his is destined to be the best.

No one said the market had to be fair.

So Jaskier is mostly overheating the conversation with a curious eye, but when the questions come and the vendor hesitates a second too long (being only one second), Jaskier sweeps in next to him with a rustle of his red leather coat and a smile.] You really must be careful asking the merchants for advice. [But Jaskier doesn’t hesitate to throw the man a bag of coins, enough for Vash to take his plant and then one.] They’ll give you terrible advice so your plants die and you come back more often. You’d have much better luck at a proper green witch.

jaskier is like two ideas away from starting a fantasy mlm

[boltaction]

[ both the vendor and vash turn to look at jaskier. even when he's tossed the bundle of coin, the vendor glares. vash, meanwhile, mildly panics. ]

Uh-- whoa, you don't have to do that!

[ but before vash has time to try and return the money pouch, the stall owner has already pocketed it, telling him that he can have his pick of any of the pre-potted blooms. he selects two; the first one he'd reached for, the flower heads small with tightly cloistered, rounded petals, and another variety its polar opposite with long, lacy fronds. he thanks the merchant with a smile and a tilt of his head, and then offers jaskier the second plant he'd chosen. ]

You really didn't need to do that. [ to pay for him... or insult the vendor. but vash isn't about to build mountains out of molehills. ] What's a "green witch?"

If he knew he could invent mlms he might consider it

[cointosser]

[Jaskier waves a hand. Tossing a coin bag around is far from the last thing he’s done to make obvious his wealth. The embroidered coat, the hanging gold necklace with a small bejeweled phoenix; the fact even most people in Nocwich know who he is.] I don’t have to do anything. Please, don’t worry about it. It’s worth a few coins to encourage a burgeoning young green thumb.

[As far as Jaskier had studied them, after all, Nocwich blossoms are rather simple. Mostly it involves keeping them out of direct sunlight.]

A witch who specializes in herbs and potion making. Er. [He takes the plant with a hint of confusion. This isn’t for him, surely?] Have you heard of witches before? It’s like a magic… ah… woman. Usually. I suppose they can be men, or neither, or sometimes not even human. I’m certainly not going around telling vampires they can’t be witches.

ahhhHHHHHH VASH!!!! 🥺

[hairington]

[ steve catches sight of him first with the girls - older than the ones steve’s used to looking after, but young enough that they are too shy to try and befriend steve. he knows them well enough, and they remind him a lot of erica, which is a double edged sword in and of itself.

either way, steve thinks about going and saving the guy - he’s gotten pretty good at the braids over these last few months, and when he sees him hesitate and fumble with what looks like a prosthetic arm, steve feels a bit bad that the girls bullied him into it at all.

but right as he’s about to head over, another local hands him a basket full of wedding decorations and tells him that they need that over by the maypole and steve gets caught up in the hustle and bustle of the day.

that is - until the wedding celebrations start, and the drinks are being served, and steve watches as the sam guy who he caught across the square earlier that day is forcibly sat down and told to drink and have fun, and isn’t allowed to be left alone until he actually starts doing one of those two.

steve laughs a little, watching him down the mug of mead pretty easily and his caretakers finally let him be. steve leans over so that he can be heard over the music. ]

The mead’s pretty good, right? [ steve reaches across the table to another bottle, refilling his own and then the newcomers. ] My name’s Steve. Guessing you’re new here?

HELLO STEVE AND UR BEAUTIFUL MANE!!!!

[boltaction]

[ vash perks up when he realizes he's being spoken to, using the back of his flesh hand to wipe at his mouth. ]

I've never had anything like it. I'm used to beer or whiskey... this is pure sugar by comparison.

[ he laughs briefly and lifts his mug when offered the fresh bottle, happy to let steve top him off with a "thanks." he takes a healthy gulp before he places the flagon between his thighs to grip it in place so he can hold out his non-prosthetic hand. even though he's perfectly capable of shaking hands with his new one, carved out of some kind of lightweight, enchanted wood, he already favors his right hand when touching other people. one too many uncomfortable looks had taught him that lesson real quick, decades ago. ]

Vash. And yeah, earlier this week. It's been... interesting.

[ which is to say it's been a lot of things. not all of them bad, but not all of them good, either. ]

he’s doing his best

[hairington]

[ steve nods, understanding, and maybe more than a little relieved at the fact vash is talking about stuff that steve actually knows. ]

That was the same for me, but you’ll get used to it fast. It was weird at first because I didn’t realize something could be so sweet and also knock you on your ass? So be careful. The hangovers are killer.

[ which seems a little counter intuitive, as steve makes sure to fill vash’s cup to the very top. but if the slight red tint to steve’s face is anything to go by, he’s indulging a bit too. it’s a wedding, after all! and what else are you supposed to do at weddings if not drink?

he reaches over and shakes the offered hand, completely and totally not even noticing if there was any natural vs. prosthetic hand choosing going on.

the way vash says interesting has steve chuckling as he sits back into his seat with his own cup. ] That’s one way to put it. [ which is to say, not all good and not all bad. steve might seem pretty well settled, but he can understand the feeling. feels it now, even. he lets out a breath. ]

Welcome to Solvunn. [ is that sarcasm? maybe a little. ] It doesn’t always look like this.

nocwich

[assembles]

[ Steve usually takes the opportunity to travel to Nocwich for the one weekend it's allowed each month. A change of scenery is almost always nice, for one thing, and it allows him to check in with people he's usually separated from seeing save for in the Horizon.

Besides, the food here is good, particularly the meat skewers.

He's in line behind Vash at the food stand and therefore has a front row seat to him staring at the pieces of meat on a stick like he's never actually seen such a thing before. Steve can practically see the guy's mouth watering. He steps forward to hand over some coin and quickly makes his order, then raises an eyebrow at Vash, his smile halfway teasing. ]

This your first time here?

[ A new rash of summoning just happened, he knows. This guy definitely doesn't look like a local, either, so it's an easy assumption to make. ]

Pretty sure that's boar. [ Either way, it's not gonna kill him. ]

hello captain uwu

[boltaction]

[ vash actually has to swallow before he can answer the man beside him, or he really might drool all over himself. ]

I'm paralyzed by decision. I've never seen this much meat before in one place that wasn't all just the same thing.

[ at the stranger's suggestion, vash points at what he'd indicated and chimes: ] Two-- no, wait-- three of these? Thank you!

[ that's an amount that could feed several people, but he seems to be completely by his lonesome here. he holds the skewers with ease between the fingers of his flesh hand when they're handed to him, dropping the appropriate amount of coin in the waiting hand of the vendor with his wood-carved prosthetic.

vash flashes the other man a sunny smile. ]

I've never had it. Smells delicious, though.

[ vash supposes he'll get to try out every kind of meat on offer eventually. ]

[assembles]

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

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

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

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

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

Nocwich

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard always takes advantage of Nocwich when it opens. It is comfortable. Close to the night world of home, enough for him to be fond of it and have no ill associations. He appreciates the people who run it, and he tries to support the vendors when he can.

Except for the flower sellers, and only because he shares office space with someone very skilled. It doesn't mean he can't stand and admire them though, especially the night-blooming jasmine beside the plant that Vash is looking at.]

Rotate the pot if the price isn't clearly marked.

alucard my beloved

[boltaction]

Oh.

[ vash turns the ceramic pot around, and sure enough, there it is. he produces the proper amount of coin and trades it for the the potted bloom. he holds it up to eye-level, admiring its gentle blue luminescence fondly. he'd picked it because the bulbous shape of the flower heads had reminded him of his sisters, color and all.

his attention shifts back to the stranger who'd tipped him off. ]

Thank you. This is my first time here... but I imagine you've figured that out already.

[ carefully he shifts the flower to his prosthetic, pausing to make sure he has a good grip before offering his flesh hand in greeting. ]

I'm Vash.

[cryptsleeper]

--I might have politely guessed.

[Alucard, over the past two years or so in Abraxas, has adopted the overall approach of not inquiring about others and their past unless they feel comfortable sharing. Anything he assumes, he doesn't ask about. He is a man who craves privacy, and he strives to offer the same politeness to all in turn.

Earlier, he might not have taken an offered hand. Now he does, although it is quick and fleeting. His grip is cold and firm.]

Alucard.

[There's no hiding the flash of fangs either. One does not control their fangs until they need to for dramatic purposes.]

wedding crashers au

[yoke]

[ it's a quaint yet busy affair. wolfwood is unfamiliar with weddings and ceremonies that don't involve putting people in the ground, but he can put two and two together. the people here seem eager enough to trust him already, so he doesn't feel the need to ham up his undertaker role just yet; it means little here in this strange new world with their strange new gods. better to put his focus and efforts in the manual labor that come with town-wide affairs instead.

never had he ever been remotely glad for the eye's enhancements. it's unsettlingly easy to apply them in this way—normal things like chopping wood and stacking them, delivering supplies to and from the main settlement to the clearing as the wedding slowly comes together. it's easy to turn off his mind to it, to ignore (at least for now) the strangeness of everything and what it means now that he's here, to sink into an easier rhythm of this kind of work.

perhaps that's what has him spotting vash in the midst of it all, the one familiar thing that he latches on to. funny, how that works. vash isn't wearing his trademark coat, but wolfwood has followed him long enough to recognize him in spite of it. he plops down next to him with his own mug, tapping the side of it against vash's before taking a swig. ]

Lemme guess, [ he drawls, tone flat as it usually is. as if they're merely just lounging after a long day and didn't get kidnapped to another place entirely. ] They caught you running around the whole day and threatened you to sit down.

[ aka: you're a sight for sore eyes vash but don't make him say it... ]

hey there handsome you doomed by the narrative all by yourself??

[boltaction]

[ vash gapes. ]

... Wolfwood?

[ he reaches for him, grabbing him by the bicep before he can think better of it, as if he's trying to confirm that he's not just some... apparition. or illusion. or a guy who just happens to look exactly like wolfwood from this specific angle. ]

What-- where-- when did you get here?

[ confusion is the most immediate emotion readable in vash's voice, but there's a tinge of giddy hope, too. he sets his stein down in the grass before reaching up to pinch the meat of wolfwood's cheek between thumb and finger, still checking if he's real. ]

closes my eyes

[yoke]

[ so much for that.

wolfwood expects the surprise, really. even the grabbing, because vash has always been touchy-feely and they've abandoned the notion of physical boundaries since they were relegated to the backseat of the van. what he doesn't expect is the pinching, surprise giving way to annoyance, made all the more pronounced now that he doesn't have the barrier of his sunglasses anymore.

(i can see it in his eyes. it feels like a lifetime ago since vash had said it and it'd haunted him back then. a part of him hates that it's followed him here, too.) ]

Wh— hey! [ it comes out a little distorted with the way his cheek is pinched, pulled to one side. wolfwood smacks vash's hand away in an effort to free himself. ] The hell, Spikes?

[ he's glad to see him too, but damn. ]

Don't gotta look like you're seeing a ghost. I got here not too long ago.

» unattended !!!

[mobezon]

{ the sun has begun to go down, enough that louis is able to avoid any last remaining rays in the way. he steps over into a shadier spot, aiming to continue his walk. it hasn't been long since he's woken up. he's taken a liking to exploring, and finds routine refreshing even if he has seen the same fields over and over. he's yet to go deeper into the woods as they were warned about them, but he's daring enough to try one of these days. it's the thumping against his ears when he thought he'd been the only one out at the edge.

a new rhythm? a heartbeat? there'd been new summoned on occasion and he wouldn't be surprised if there were more. he reaches the end of the settlement to witness someone bending over with a concentration that does not need any mind reading to observe. it briefly reminds him of when he found out there were others who could read animal thoughts - michael and his goats. louis' steps are quiet, and can seem eerie in the way people have missed him coming up so he makes sure to take an extra heavy step. startling isn't the way to greet.

it seems almost silly to consider when he rounds to the other side, catching a glimpse of the wild daisy with its petals towards the direction of the gentle breeze coming in from the east. something about the motion is delicate, which causes intrigue in his approach. then again, he's a vampire and there's a shark man running around so he figures it's worth inquiring a bases of a probably odd question. }

Are they speaking to you?

i cannae believe you asked him that it's SO on point 👌

[boltaction]

[ quiet though he'd been, vash had heard louis' approach even before he'd made the considerate effort to make himself known. having only arrived just yesterday, he didn't fully trust this... place. wherever it was. his stay here could be temporary, for one, and for two-- beautiful didn't mean safe. so he's still on high alert, maybe even more so than his base level of vigilance at any given moment back home.

but he, too, doesn't want to startle anyone by suddenly turning around. so he waits, either to be left alone again or spoken to-- when he's asked a question that makes his heart leap in the cage of his chest.

he lifts his head sharply, eyes the color of the afternoon sky landing on louis with rather intense trepidation. ]

What? [ he asks, dumbly. ]

we’re a mighty lil weirdo faction so welcomeee ✨

[mobezon]

Some people can read minds here. I have the means myself.

{ he had considered keeping it to himself, but the fact that the thought was brought on by this vein (no pun intended), he might as well keep following it. it’s absurd the longer it rolls off his tongue and it’s not out in the open.

it becomes a little less absurd when he hears the spike in the heartbeat, a particular reaction to his question. his gaze is purposely calming, green eyes surreal under the darkening night sky and keeping poise when set on the newcomer. he thinks for a second vash’s eyes are as surreal as his own. what could his world be like? every summoned brings a unique perspective, like fingerprints. }

I only just learned there’s someone that can read animal minds. There’s no far stretch to think maybe the plants…? Pardon if I am wrong. You could just be admiring. Did you just arrive?

nocwich - VAAASH

[theidlemaiden]

[ Flowers feels like a bit of a sore spot for Hilda these days. It's all her friends had been talking about several weeks before as they planned out their grand new home which now felt soured for a multitude of reasons. Still. They are pretty. And they serve for some nice inspiration for her designs which is what she's totally focused on and not the fact that it might be a nice addition to the garden terrace that she no longer wants any part of.

She's not so deep in her woes however that she doesn't overhear the conversation between the blonde and the merchant. Before he steps away she catches his eye and gives him a little wave. ]

What was the verdict? Do you keep them in the dark?

MISS HILDA!!!!

[boltaction]

[ vash pauses when addressed, leaning slightly in her direction to hear her better over the din of the market. he smiles at her question. ]

That was his suggestion. [ he gestures with a thumb over his shoulder. ] He said they'll take best in as much shade as possible if I want to plant them outdoors, and to avoid direct sunlight entirely. As long as the soil is good, too, they won't need a ton of water either.

[ he glances down at the little potted plant in his hands, wondering briefly just how big it'll get. then his attention returns to the woman with the blush-colored hair. ]

Are you also looking to buy? I've never seen naturally occurring flora with bioluminescence before.

[theidlemaiden]

Me? Oh, I don't have much of a green thumb.

[ A partial truth. She doesn't quite have the determined aptitude or intuition to keep plants alive which, for once, has less to do with her laziness. What it really comes down to is that she and dirt aren't really on the best terms.

She closes the gap between them to peer down at the faintly glowing plant before up at the blonde. ]

I have some friends that love gardening who might like it though. I just thought they looked pretty. [ After a brief pause she perks up, a cheeky quality sparking in her gaze. ] Are you new here by the way? I'd remember a baby face like yours.

weddings - hello vash, prepare to be fed

[aquaveiled]

[ If there is one thing she can give it to Solvunn, they really know how to bring everyone together for a joint purpose. There is love in a wedding, of course, but also in that sense of community, where neighbor knows neighbor and is always around to help one another out. It reminds her of her hometown in a lot of ways, back when everything had been so closed off from the surface world.

It's nice. Even new faces are happily brought into the fold.

Which, as part of the Official Unofficial Welcoming Committee, Himeka makes it a point to ensure that everyone feels appropriately welcomed. Doing rounds with a large pie will do the trick, since the mead is unsurprisingly in good distribution. So when she spots the head of unfamiliar blonde hair, she shifts her route and stands just off to his right. ]

You look like you could wash your drink down with some pie.

[ That's definitely not the way it's supposed to go. ]

Want a slice? Fresh as of this afternoon!

god yes free food? sounds delicious

[boltaction]

[ he's in the middle of taking another gulp of his drink when he hears the offer of a slice of fresh pie from beside him; he swallows before turning to look. normally he's better about not taking notice of people's differences, but it's hard not to take in the wing-like horns fanning out from either side of a head framed by fiery red hair.

but his staring is brief, his face splitting with a summery smile. ]

Yes, absolutely! Did you make it? What's in it?

he will NEVER go hungry in solvunn

[aquaveiled]

[ That is a glowing smile, isn't it? It's good to see that someone so new can be in good spirits. Maybe it's just the atmosphere of the string of celebrations or maybe it's just his nature, but it's a nice thing to see all the same. ]

I did! Which means it comes with a one-hundred percent satisfaction guarantee...or else!

[ Or else what? Don't worry about it. ]

It's strawberry and mulberry with a sugar-coated crust and a drizzle of honey, left sitting just long enough for it to really soak in.

[ She reaches into the woolen satchel at her side and pulls out a rustic wooden plate--barely carved, but functional--and slides off a piece of the pie. ]

Here! Let me know what you think.