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

nicholas d. wolfwood, trigun stampede / strength

[yoke]

[ it's a moment of clarity you only get in those precious last moments; whether you're bleeding out in the desert, on a couch, or in his case, drowning in the void. actually, the sensation of drowning in and of itself is a novel one, something that wolfwood had never thought he'd ever experience given the fact that he'd crossed an entire godforsaken desert with no body of water in sight just to babysit some alien psychopath's twin brother, but hey. cross that off his bucket list.

did you find a reason to put down your cross? conrad had asked him. at the time, wolfwood didn't have an answer. he still doesn't. he doesn't know what's worse: not finding a reason to, or finding one. each step across that wasteland of a planet felt like digging himself deeper and deeper into his own grave; can you hit rock bottom if all that's left is sand? or now, nothing at all?

and it's in the middle of his existential crisis that he feels a hand grab his, hauling him up to the surface. wolfwood coughs up water, soaked and naked and looking like the spitting image of a drowned stray cat, but thankfully (?) alive. a weird backwards baptism, he's off to a great start already. ]

>1. solvunn - local undertaker touches grass for the first time
[ there's a moment when he's finally brought to the settlement and left to his own devices where wolfwood stands in the middle of it all and just. stays there. takes a deep breath in, deep breath out, and squints directly above him at the sky. everything is so very green, yes, of course, but he can take a breath without getting a lungful of sand, which is amazing in its own right. there's actually a distinct lack of sand in general, which is also nice.

this is the kind of scenery he's only seen in books back at the orphanage and later, on ship three. but neither of those compared to this. wolfwood lowers to a squat where he is and puts his hand right in the earth, sinking his fingers into the grass and soft soil, something akin to childlike wonder briefly crossing his face.

afterwards, wolfwood can be found hitting up the picnic, because no one says no to free food, even when you've been highkeylowkey kidnapped. wolfwood may be genetically enhanced, but he could do with a couple more bowls of stew, honestly. from there, he'll wander around the settlement and can be found lingering near crowds and listening in on conversations as he helps out with chores, taking note of the discussions regarding the recent execution. nice to know that certain things don't change no matter how picturesque the place may look. otherwise, catch him chilling with the livestock, more specifically the chickens, cleaning the enclosures and replenishing the feed with something like a practiced hand. ]

>2. nocwich - local undertaker (re)discovers gambling
[ unsurprisingly, nocwich is a little more his speed, if only because wolfwood has been to his fair share of shady places while looking equally shady himself. the effect is a little ruined now that he has his new digs and is without his glasses, but whatever. he makes a circuit of the marketplace, and while there are some things that catch his eye, he ends up checking out the gambling den.

wolfwood isn't a gambler by trade, but he is a liar and a bit of a cheat, which means he'll hopefully manage to win a few small hands if he plays his cards right. it's mostly just an excuse to snoop around more, listening in on conversations amongst the other players as he moves from one table to the next, maybe sneaking a drink or two with his small winnings.

he doesn't stay long, though, either because someone has caught onto his cheating or someone decided to get salty about a stranger taking their winnings. in any case, wolfwood slips out of there quickly just as two or three of the locals get up from their seats, checking his surroundings before sidling up next to whoever's closest. ]

You hungry? I'll get you something to eat.

[ please just go along with it. ]

>3. wildcard
[ if none of the above strike your fancy, feel free to throw something else at me! or shoot me a pm and i'd be more than happy to come up with something more specific 👌🏻 ]

Nocwich

[wasalmostdaphne]

[Bay came in mostly to see where the high rollers were. Not- to play, but the Gambling Halls were well lit and she was hoping to see some useful information. Reading the lips of anyone who looks overly important. Also while she looked for her sister, if she was here too.]

[She's paying a bit more attention to the shadows around her, people moving and milling. She knows that watching without playing can get a girl in trouble. And that she doesn't want to play having seen her brother end up five digits deep in the hole. So when a shadow is definitely too close to her she jerks her head to see who it is, and what he says. Catching the end of it.]

Sure? Food sounds great. You're buying, right?

[She hasn't a single idea who this guy is, but she does know 'guy on the wrong side of gambling trouble' when she sees it, and she's not entirely ready to make a scene and throw this guy under the bus. Yet.]

[yoke]

I'm a man of my word.

[ he's not, if the wry and crooked half-grin on his face is anything to go by. still, he's grateful she decides to go along with it and they make it out of the den without fuss. wolfwood doesn't drop the act just yet, however, keen to play it safe as he heads towards the food stalls. ]

You craving anything in particular?

[wasalmostdaphne]

[She got the impression the easiest way to tell when he was lying was to see if his lips were moving.]

I saw a place out front with meat skewers, that looked pretty good.

[She's either fascinated by his lips, or she needs to keep an eye on them to tell when he's lying again. She does spare a glance to see who, exactly, is talking about them. And sees a few guys that don't seem overly friendly that are very atentive to where they are.]

Tell me why I'm not running off right now?

nocwich

[funbreaker]

[ The gambling den is usually one of Thancred's stops when he comes to Nocwich, along with the hunting woods and the hot springs. All places he can't easily access within the confines of the cage Thorne has made for them unless he wants to draw undue attention to himself. So he indulges here.

Tonight he's opted to simply have a drink in the gambling hall and perhaps listen in on a conversation or two. None of it is particularly interesting, which is a shame as he'd been hoping for a clue on where those imprisoned acolytes might have ended up.

He's made note of the stranger who's been hustling a few other people for their coin, but he doesn't see it as anything that out of the ordinary in a place like this. Though when the man extricates himself from the card table and walks up to him, addressing him with feigned familiarity, Thancred's quick to slide into his role. ]

Well, if you're offering, who am I to say no?

[ He stands from his table as he shoots Wolfwood a charming smile, leaving a coin for the drink and then starting for the exit at a casual place. No reason to cause any sort of alarm. ]

[yoke]

[ thancred's sharp, that much wolfwood has no doubt, and he's thankful that luck was on his side this time to have him run into him rather than someone a little less quick on the uptake. he doesn't give off the same vibe as the rest of the locals here and wolfwood's inclined to believe that he's a summoned also, but he keeps it to himself for now, sliding into step next to him as they make for the exit.

he returns that charming smile with a bemused little half-grin of his own, shrugging lightly. ]

Feelin' a little generous tonight, what can I say? [ he at least has a few more coins to spare now than he did earlier. ] Saw they had boar on the menu.

[ not that he's ever had that before, but there's a first time for everything. ]

[funbreaker]

Aye, they most certainly do. It's one of the delicacies from a creature found in the hunting woods.

[ However, if this stranger wasn't already aware of that, then it implies that he's new to this place, which most likely means that he's a new Summoned. Thancred's been here long enough that he knows the general look of one by now. No matter how much someone might want to blend in, something is still going to make them smack of "outsider."

Not only within Nocwich, but Abraxas as whole.

Once they're far enough away from the gambling hall, Thancred addresses the man more bluntly. ]

Do you cheat others out of their coin for the thrill of it, or were you in need of some more spending money?

[ There's no accusation in his tone, only curiosity. He tends to earn his money the hard way these days, but there's no denying that he's hustled people out of their gil in the past, or even pickpocketed it. ]

[yoke]

[ it's definitely fancier than worm meat. but it sounds like it's a staple here, which isn't so surprising given the variety of cuisine he's seen in solvunn alone.

thancred's already got him figured out, though. while wolfwood may be able to hide his newness to some at first glance, he can't fool those that have been here long enough. so he figures he may as well be honest— ]

Never hurts to have a little more coin. [ the eye doesn't exactly give out a stipend whenever he's in between jobs or in the midst of one. ] And Solvunn's not a place with deep pockets.

[funbreaker]

[ Solvunn. Well, that answers Thancred's question of where this stranger was summoned to without him even having to ask. ]

I visited there briefly. [ He says it casually, but travel between factions is hardly the norm. It was only allowed because of some extreme circumstances. ] My understanding is that they mainly function on a barter system, so you'll likely need to spend that coin here in Nocwich.

[ Just a friendly bit of advice, really. There's yet another useful tidbit he can provide as well, which he does so even as he leads them in the direction of the food stalls. ]

I would suggest you introduce yourself to Himeka, if she hasn't already found you. [ Which is entirely possible. She has a way of scooping up all the new arrivals, or so he'd guess. ] She's one of the Summoned who's been in Solvunn the longest and would be happy to help situate you.

[yoke]

Yeah, I got that. [ which worked out for wolfwood after arriving with nothing as he did. he shrugs, ] Places like these are usually a little more inclined to coughing up their gossip if you flash some coin around the right kinda people. Thought I'd try my luck.

[ hustling isn't going to be his full time job, but he won't say no to earning a little extra if he can. wolfwood glances up at the mention of himeka though, cocking his head to one side. ]

Red hair, right? The one with the— [ he makes a vague gesture to where her horns are. ] You know. She a friend of yours?

[funbreaker]

[ Gossip, eh? Thancred sends a sly smile the stranger's way as soon as he hears that. He's resourceful, he'll certainly give him that much, and he did manage to extract himself from the gambling hall without painting too large of a target on his back. ]

And what sort of information are you looking for?

[ As they press deeper into the square, the distinct scent of grilled meat hits his nose. While he knows that this man only offered to buy him food as a way to get out of that compromising situation, Thancred has every intention of buying himself a skewer or two.

But, ah. He's met Himeka. Of course he has. Thancred nods firmly. ] Yes, very much so. From our home star. We've known each other for a number of years, having worked together and set out on any number of adventures. You will not regret befriending her, I assure you.

[yoke]

[ there's a reason he's managed to stay alive for as long as he has. all that genetic engineering wouldn't be able to save him if he didn't watch his steps and play his cards right. when you deal with the devil masquerading as god, you put your ears to the ground and learn as you go. ]

Finding a way back. [ because he still has unfinished business. he knows that info is more of a shot in the dark though, so— ] But I ain't picky. Solvunn's quiet, sometimes a little too much.

[ the place may look peaceful enough but every place has its secrets; wolfwood doesn't trust all their talk about gods.

but more importantly, the food is distracting enough once they get to the food stalls, and wolfwood may or may not be openly staring at one of those boar skewers. he's a man of his word though, and will order one for thancred when he picks one out. ]

With a glowing review like that, how could I? I'll take your word for it. [ his tone is dry, but there's a fondness beneath it, one that softens his smile a little. ] Reminds me of someone I know.

Nocwich

[itookashot]

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

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

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

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

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

[yoke]

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

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

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

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

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

[itookashot]

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

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

More due to some casual sleight of hand.

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

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

[ He pauses. ]

Maybe threatening with guns. It was a bad day.

nocwich.

[gynvael]

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

And then speaks to him.

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

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

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

[yoke]

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

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

[gynvael]

[ The faintest tilt graces his lips before vanishing. ] Not yet.

[ Sheer deadpan makes it difficult to tell if he's joking. He probably is. Maybe he even passes for one of the local wolves, considering how familiar he seems to be with these streets—though the glowing pendant that hangs alongside his medallion suggests he's as much a visitor as the others. There's desert sand crusted on his boots, dusting his hair.

He pushes open the door to the nearest tavern. Dimly lit by torches, the air inside is drenched with stale beer. Geralt does not browse market stalls, so the only thing that interests him around here is the ale. ]

Where did you arrive from?

[ If he leans in to sniff, he could likely smell the lingering grasses and goats of Solvunn or the floral gardens of Thorne, but Geralt decides he'll grant the rare courtesy of simply asking. ]

[yoke]

[ not yet. it coaxes a chuckle out of wolfwood, despite the deadpan tone. he can appreciate dry humor, even one couched in something that anyone else would likely consider to be a threat. geralt is imposing enough just by appearance alone (wolfwood kind of hates that he needs to look up at the guy), but maybe it's that slight suggestion of a smile, or the glowing pendant he sees; maybe even the sand in his hair that reminds him a little of where he'd come from. curiosity ultimately wins over caution, and while he's usually one to work alone, wolfwood figures he may as well try and get to know others like him for a better chance at surviving this place.

and it's a good thing—the tavern is familiar, at least, the smell of stale beer almost comforting. nice to know some things don't change no matter what universe you're in. true to his word, wolfwood puts in a request for two mugs of ale when the bartender comes by. ]

Solvunn. [ there's dirt scuffed onto his trousers, and the smell of livestock likely lingers. once the townsfolk caught on to his affinity with chickens, they've put him to work. he squints at geralt briefly again, cocks his head to one side as he chews on the toothpick. ] Lemme guess, you're from Cadens?

[ either that or thorne; he doesn't think he'd miss seeing someone like geralt around in solvunn. but instinct has him leaning toward the former and it hasn't let him down yet. ]

[gynvael]

[ Mm. Solvunn. Not the most rousing place to be. Quiet, though, from what he's heard. He hasn't set foot there. On occasion, he's considered what it would be like had he chosen to go there instead of the Free Cities. But he made his decision back then, inside Thorne's dungeons. He doesn't regret being with the people who matter most to him.

Even if the sweltering heat is a permanent thorn in his side for someone who grew up in the northern mountains. Still, after nearly two years, he's acclimated well enough.

Speaking of. That is, in fact, where he's from. ] Good guess.

[ Observant, isn't he? Geralt slides onto the wobbly stool before granting the rarest of things: an introduction that includes his name. He's reaching for his mug of ale at the same time, though it's entirely possible to mistake the gesture for a handshake. ]

Geralt of Rivia.

[yoke]

[ solvunn's quiet. peaceful (from what he can tell), in ways that most people would find boring, but wolfwood appreciates the simple living. he's not known peace and quiet for a long time now, and from what he's heard of the free cities and thorne, he doesn't think he'd find any there. he's had enough of playing the perfect soldier, of following directives that he never believed in, and while he doesn't deserve this kind of freedom, he'll take what he can get. not like he has a choice now either way.

there's a little toothy half-grin at the confirmation, partly hidden by his own mug that he grabs for, which saves him the trouble of handshake etiquette. he's too busy drumming the fingers of his free hand against his knee anyway, desperately itching for a smoke but the gods here weren't kind enough to spare him his cigarettes when they decided to strip him down. ]

Wolfwood. [ he wonders if rivia is a title, or a place? definitely not one he's heard of. has a nice ring to it, though. ] So how long have you been here, Geralt?

[ aka, how fucked are they in terms of going home? ]

[gynvael]

[ The inevitable question. The new folk still think about going home. ] Nearly two summers.

[ Extraordinarily fucked. Geralt doesn't sound especially bothered. There isn't much he left behind on the Continent, a place that never wanted him or his people. His daughter is with him; he's built a family of sorts. And though he has another family back on his sphere, they are not—like him—long for any world. The steady, inescapable decline of his kind is a reality he grew up accepting.

Ciri is safer here, where royals and emperors haven't any idea what she is or what she's capable of. So here is where he prefers to be. ]

Don't let Solvunn lull you. They like their gods a little too much.

solvunn - how does he like the grass?

[aquaveiled]

[ It's about that time again, isn't it? When the Council deigns to bring new Summoned into their midst. After what transpired only a couple months prior she had wondered how much of that would be necessary, but...Himeka supposes things have returned to something of a normal stasis in Abraxas.

Solvunn, if anything, is feeling more alive than ever. What could have been a moment of shame has become a moment to celebrate in a ritualistic cleansing.

What a way to welcome the newcomers, huh?

And the newly Summoned are fairly easy to pick out once they begin to wander around. Prone to people watching as she is, she rather pointedly stares as the man kneels down and touches the grass. It's not the normal sort of wonder and confusion she expects, so...

Himeka trots of and mimics his squat, petting the earth in the manner she apparently thinks he is. ]

Did you find something?

very green and very fresh 🤔

[yoke]

[ he doesn't exactly hide his newness—it's hard to when he's surrounded by things that he's only ever seen in pictures rather than in person. the soil is likely something everyone here is already used to, but wolfwood marvels at how cool it feels around his fingers, softer than he expected it to be.

himeka catches him before he can withdraw his hand though, and he blinks up at her momentarily as he attempts to think of an excuse. ]

Nah, just— you know. Checking if it needs watering.

[ nailed it. ]

the best way to gauge it is taste testing

[aquaveiled]

[ If the ground needs watering? The dirt that is very much not being used for gardening or farming? Random plot of dirt in town? She raises both of her brows at that, gaze darting between this new man and the ground. Sounds fake, but...honestly, it's the sort of thing she rolls with anyway. ]

Oh?

[ Himeka pokes a hole in the ground. The top may not be particularly moist, but it is a little more damp further down. ]

Well, what is your verdict? Too dry? Too bland? Does it need another five minutes?

[ Somehow she manages to sound completely serious. ]