TEST DRIVE MEME #13

[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 August.

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 summer, the weather warm and mild. To anyone used to hotter climates, it might even feel somewhat 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 debate an execution involving the gods in Solvunn or the recent emergence of the Fey, there's also a buzz of excitement from the Crown Sprint - where a noble steed named Summer Eclipse and her rider Maertisa Cassidy were declared this year's winner.


• Life in the Castle has chiefly resumed, but the permanent increase in guards indicates a crisis in the past. There are also rumors of unusual rifts and creatures appearing out of nowhere.

◎ Exploring

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

Equestrian Exhibition
Hot on the heels of the extravagant Crown Sprint, Castle Thorne continues the celebration by displaying its finest horses. These include the Haylean Warmblood - bred for Hayle's mountainous cold regions - and the oldest breed in Thorne, the Circinean, named after Thorne's original settlement by Lake Circinus. You can get riding lessons from participants in the Crown Sprint, visit or volunteer to take care of the horses, or help the children who've arrived to take part in smaller pony races. While the children just want to have fun, many hail from noble and aristocratic families, so you find yourself witnessing a certain temperament from their parents...who are significantly more competitive and cutthroat than their kids.

Magic Lessons
Regular magic lessons are held by apprentice mages as part of their training, usually involving learning to cast a small spell. 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. 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.

Occupying Octopi
Due to the unusual rifts last month, a few octopi have made their way into Castle Thorne. These cephalopods have been spotted lurking in the baths, hiding in pools and lakes, and even taking a dip in the kitchen's water basin. Mages are desperate to catch the loose octopi so that they can return the animals to the ocean. The mages will give you a simple enchanted tracking orb to help locate them, but octopi have a habit of being elusive and squeezing into tight spaces - so retrieving one might take some innovation! Maybe it'll go smoother with a partner?

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 sweltering, and the climate is hot and dry. Even the summer nights are relatively warm. 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 the majority of it has been rebuilt including a new garden park memorial that commemorates the lives lost. Chatter has shifted from the fire attacks to the gruesome execution involving the gods in Solvunn, as well as the Summoned's invitation to visit the Feywilds last month. Scholars and laymen alike can be heard debating the nature of gods, men, and the Fey.


• 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. Many have just returned from a fulfilling trip into the desert known as The Firebrand, where hobbyists celebrate innovation, independence, and unique inventions.


• Life in the Free Cities has chiefly resumed, but the permanent increase in guards indicates a crisis in the past. There are also rumors of unusual rifts and creatures appearing out of nowhere.

◎ 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.

Marble Engravings
A researcher named Esi Hollandse has unveiled her newest creation: a handheld "laser" tool powered by New Magic meant to help sculptors sculpt stone. Come visit the beautifully displayed marble sculptures created using this new technique, which allows for more refined carving techniques. Want to try it for yourself? Why not! With some guidance, you can create your own etchings on a small stone block and take home your newest piece of art.

Swan Song
Due to the unusual rifts last month, several swans have invaded Cadens and are now becoming a menace, stealing bread, grains, and desserts from market stalls and shops. You might come across a shopkeeper chasing a swan after it stole their cheese or a harried attendant at the museum shooing a bird away from their precious artifacts. Perhaps you could lend a hand? Or, you could find yourself an unsuspecting victim of a swan. Any captured swans can be brought to Portam Hall and delivered to one of the government departments there, though you might have to stand in line while grasping an unhappy bird. Be careful not to let it escape!

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 the temperatures are comfortably warm with light humidity. 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 with the fruits of spring and summer. 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 no longer discussing the execution of former Council member Josselyn Creed, but 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. As well, there's curious chatter surrounding the Summoned's invitation to visit the Feywilds last month.


• Life in the Solvunn Commune has chiefly resumed, but the focus on appeasing the gods and increased shrine offerings indicate many have not forgotten the troubles of the past. There are also rumors of unusual rifts and creatures appearing out of nowhere.

◎ Exploring

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

Goat Racing
That's right. One of Solvunn's fine traditions is its regular goat races. Meant to be a bit of informal fun, there's a pen of goats where you can choose a goat, get a number, and simply join one of the starting lines. These goats are not trained so the race is less of a race and more pure chaos as the goats do what they please. Whoever eventually wrangles their goat over the finish line wins. The only rule is that you can't pick up or physically pull your goat, but you're free to cajole, lure, or even use a bit of magic to get yours to the finish line first. Winners receive small prizes of cheese, ale, wood charms, woven baskets, and other similar tokens.

Shrine Supervision
During the recent Summer Equinox celebrations, the youth have a habit of holding their own tradition called the Guardian Séance. These unsanctioned rites are quickly stopped by Commune Elders, but there's been some damage and messes that need to be put right. Elders have asked you to supervise the adolescents who've been assigned to clean up the shrines and restore the damage they've caused. Beware of snakes in the grass! You're also welcome to help the teens with their task. Once completed, Elders will invite you to make an offering in the formal traditions of High Magic.

Bird Baths
Due to the unusual rifts last month, and with the convincing of a few of the Summoned, Solvunn has agreed to raise some of the unique pack birds on one of their farmlands. Unfortunately, the week's downpour has caused them to become very muddy. Desperate farmhands have asked for your help giving the birds a good wash to clean their dirty feathers. You can also help feed them grain and prevent any jealous goats from headbutting or fighting these docile birds.

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

[glaciare]

( ‘Save the world.’

As if they hadn’t been trying to do so before arriving here; yet if the fawning earlier during their arrival was any indication they surely knew exactly what they wanted when they plucked them from their world. Jill considers this, her own hand resting on his thigh under the water. )

Perhaps they lack the means to, or the knowledge of how. If we Summoned are here to help, it’s in their best interest to keep us here and spend what resources they have in aiding us. ( They need someone with a better picture of it all, someone who’s been here longer. ) And thus explains our freedom. They have nothing to garner our cooperation by force. So they are left with the carrot.

[thedreamer]

Shepard, excellent, of course you are. [ The handshakes are returned with equal firmness and perhaps a touch more enthusiasm than is really necessary. Straying from the professional and into the possibly almost-but-not-quite silly. He lets go just before. ]

Newly Summoned, yes, but what gave me away?

[ A rhetorical question, obviously, but asked in a cheeky manner, more to invite conversation. ]

[princeofruin]

I should hope not, or one may mistake this house for one of butchery. [The directness in the man's tone seems to ease Dion's taut stance; there is a familiarity in such idle conversation and idle jests. Not between himself and another, but what he would at least hear among his men.

It is not a bristling he has at the order, but more a comic disbelief. There is no man on Valisthea, he is sure, who could make such a casual demand, without hesitation.

Dion shuts the door, stepping further inside.]

The what? [The bug, full of light, lands on his shoulder. Is that what he means? That word? The syllables sound completely foreign. And one insect is hardly a trifle.

Dion carefully pokes at the creature before it takes flight again, lighting up. For a brief stretch of time, there may be some longing in his gaze. So few will ever know the joy of flight. It is not a feeling he has ever shared. Not, at least, among men who did not attempt to kill him on sight most of the time. War does not offer much time for camaraderie... and Odin did not soar on the effort of his own wings.

Only one --

It is unfortunate how often he feels his head in the clouds now. Commiserating with an insect. Goddess, how completely morbid. He pulls his attention away and back to the scarred man, beginning to unbutton the tight sleeves around his wrists. There is, at least, no armor to remove for him now.] Are you a frequent patron of this place, then? What services would you suggest?

[thedreamer]

Always handcuffs with you.

[ Crossing his arms a bit, lifting his chin, he comes a closer to look her up and down. Lacking the more socially acceptable and normal concepts of beauty, he focuses in on something that perhaps no one would care or think to remark on when trying out a piece of clothing. And his fingers reach out to run across the tunic. ]

Oh, they've trimmed the fabric perfectly, no frayed edges! Symmetrical stitching pattern, aesthetically pleasing color tones. It won't make you look unappealing, certainly.

[ He can do better than this! Just...give him time. To further ascertain timelines, though — ]

Jim the Fish?

[thedreamer]

[ Oh no, you're not getting away that easily, Doctor Claire Fraser. He catches up to her quickly, then moves to reach out a hand towards her; a gentle hand, intending to lightly grab hold of her sleeve and stop her walking. ]

Say it again, please.

[ It's been a while! Indulge him. ]

[thedreamer]

[ Having no concept whatsoever of being too much, the Doctor simply...is. Authentically himself. The whimsical, ancient Time Lord, adapting to a new place the best he can. It's his separation from his TARDIS, all his belongings, and no sense whatsoever of where he is, that's put him a bit more out of sorts. At least internally. Outwardly, that presents as him being perhaps just a touch more mad than he usually is. Though, the madness never really escapes him or settles down. He wouldn't have it any other way. ]

I love a mystery, though. [ As if there aren't enough mysteries at the moment as it is. ]

Okay! Give me a hint.

[thedreamer]

[ Oh good, she's a go-getter, just like him! Off on an adventure that might be inane to some, but that's vitally important to him. He loathes the uniform, but if he can at least find a suitable tie somewhere, he'll less unlike himself. ]

We've skipped over the exchange of names, all my fault! Vitally important if we're to find ties together. I'm the Doctor.

[princeofruin]

[A voice so close snaps him out of his focused attentions, and while he is not flustered, Dion does place an extra step between them. And he needs it. It is a rarity that he has ever met a woman who he does not look down at to meet her gaze, and certainly this one carries herself like... well. She carries herself well. Even under such flowing robes, it is clear the strength the body underneath holds.]

I confess, no. I have never been. Not to as such.

[There were baths and there were servants, but there was always privacy. And then there were hard campaigns and men dipping into rivers for a taste of a chill.

His muscles ache not from work, but from tension. He could certainly use it, even if there is no easing of it. There is never a chance of easing it.] Despite this place's darkness, I find it contains a near-familiar comfort, even if it yet feels so new.

[They are certainly welcoming, in a way few nations truly ever have been.]

hope you don't mind! -- equestrian exhibition

[princeofruin]

[When he had become utmost certain that the face he spies upon is one he knows, he continues to spy from afar. It felt a shame to interrupt such a moment, where there is nothing, from what he can see, of pain or trepidation in that familiar face.

There have been so few chances for such. Leaning against a wall, arms crossed, he is nothing more than one man among many. There is no timed end to when he must be torn away. No duties next to be forced or crushed underneath. He is a war of desire to return to his home and a sinful, guilt-ridden relief to be apart from it, for this one moment to breathe open air. (A sickening desire, it must be, to be so full of grief and yet wish to find an escape.) And yet, so he should have known, that a piece of that world should follow after him.

Finally, Dion approaches, an air of humor lifting only the edge of his lip.] We should be thankful that it doesn't. [If you ask him, at least.] Greetings to you once again, Phoenix.

occupying octopi

[princeofruin]

Someone is certainly watching her, with a mixture of disbelief and unbridled amusement. Dion had been on the same search with a similar orb -- the limits, he finds, of the magic he is now capable of -- but it is magic all the same, even if he cannot fathom a time when such a valuable, limited resource would be used on the search for cephalopods.

He cannot either fathom a time he may have seen a coeurl of a girl on all fours, scrambling about like a raging panther.

At least he can say that she is quite quick on her feet. Or should he say, paws?

"I merely offer a cautionary question on your certainty of wanting to take that chance." Of the poison. He is doubtful of her ability to only smell its poison. "Should you at least not put it to the fire first?"

The human experience is one sure that if you cook anything long enough, it is likely to not kill you.

[theidlemaiden]

A hint, huh? Okay! What about the letter it starts with?

[ That shouldn't be too much of a big giveaway, right? Before she can do that however, a group of werewolves leaving a nearby tavern in good spirits don't seem to notice them walking towards them. And with the Doctor still facing her, well. Hilda is quick to grab a hold of his hands, spinning him around like they're children playing ring around the rosie as they avoid getting barreled over by the raucous group. She can't help but laugh before letting go of his hands. ]

That wasn't the hint. But what is the hint, is that my name starts with an "H".

hope you don't mind if I sneak in here -- magic lessons

[princeofruin]

[There is no small amount to be said for how much a citizen of Valisthea must swallow when placed in a land where magic comes so freely. While the offerings of aid in its calling have been offered, Dion yet hesitates to attempt it. Far from the fear of eroding his body further, as that has been mere fact of life for far too long, but for --

For the things it has already done. That cannot, and will not, be repeated.

But it is not a guilt that lays with every Dominant, nor every soul from the Twins. There is a new marked, blessed freedom, when their bodies, their aether, truly becomes their own. There is a relief in that.

Especially of a magic so near and dear to him.]

It appears ice is not your only magic to call.

desmond miles | assassin's creed | Death ▶ Free Cities

[accommodated]

▶ a total eclipse of the plot ( arrival: Cadens )

[ Coming in and out of the Animus had some interesting effects. It's a lot like synesthesia-- all of the senses are crossed with each other, up is down, left is right, and the vividness of that space between what was probably REM and wakefulness meant for some really weird hypnogogic hallucinations. To be sure, Desmond Miles was extremely used to being disoriented and nauseated. He was used to everything feeling way off when moving from one world to the next, so to speak. Like a dream

Except it isn't one, is it? Not even when he's practically laughing (almost hysterically from the shock), telling Rebecca to wake him up. Any time now, Rebecca, this is getting really weird. Not even when they give him a uniform with Death's symbol stitched into it, not even when Desmond's nodding along to the things being told to him, but barely absorbing it. But-- well, we all gotta cope, right?

If you're the type to be on rooftops, that's where you'll find Desmond once he gets into Cadens proper, scoping the place out and trying to find good vantage points to build a mental map of this whole new world. ]

...yeah, something tells me this definitely isn't Monteriggioni. Or September.

[ And if you're not the type to be on rooftops, well-- ]

--shit! No, no, no--

[ Look, Desmond's not perfect. A guard shouting at him to get down from there! has him slipping and managing to catch himself enough that the good ol' tuck-n-roll means he doesn't break anything, but, uh... it's not smooth, that's for sure. Oops? ]

▶ and you are a horrible goose swan

[ Desmond isn't above doing favors for people. It's a good way to make connections, and generally speaking, when people like you, they're more likely to tell you things-- blah, blah, blah, we know the drill, right? Truth be told, Desmond had actually been kind of roped into it. An agitated swan snatched something from an unsuspecting kid, and have you seen angry swans when something is smaller than it?

Yeeeaaaaahhhh.

So Desmond did what any hero would do, and that was try to get it's attention. Big mistake. Very big mistake. Wanna know why? Because you're the one that Desmond collides with when he's sprinting as fast as his long legs can carry him, just trying to get away from the three or so now chasing him, sending you both sprawling.

Oh, and swans hiss. They hiss very loudly. Have fun. ]

▶ WILDCARD

[ none of these to your liking? feel free to make something up, or drop be a line through PM/stealthpunchline @ discord/fragtrap ]

[catchtheseclaws]

Can the octopi be eaten, raw or cooked?

[ramuhed]

( In a place that boasts everyone can visit, Cid knows it's only a matter of time before he runs into someone. To him it makes sense; if he's been dragged over then the probability of others from home existed which is more than enough for the outlaw.

A familiar voice puts a smile on Cid's face and at first he doesn't look up from the item, instead turning it over in his hands. )

Oh I don't know, I think it'd suit me quite nicely. ( And with that the jewellery is placed back down as Cid looks over to Jill. ) You're a sight for sore eyes.

[ramuhed]

( Fey that would swoop in randomly and spirit people away to another world. It's completely unheard of and yet Cid already understands that this world defied anything that could be considered order. Being on the back foot is an uncomfortable enough feeling, Cid used to having the intel at his fingertips, of having connections in places high and low. If he didn't know, his spymaster Gav would go and find out.

Here there's none of that and Cid wonders, mulls it over in his mind as they walk. How difficult will it be to set anything of the sort up here? Or better still, did this place even need it or had he been put out to pasture like a retired chocobo? Jesper seems to be giving answers for now and Cid can't help but be quietly grateful for it. He'd have found his way around eventually but this is certainly streamlining things. )

Can't say I'd enforce it, but then I'd rather not have someone's angry mum knocking my door down. ( Cid winks before going back to the conversation. ) Sarstina, got it. Starting over is a real pain in the arse, had to do it a few times. Good to know there's a place that lets people earn through helping out.

( The irony is so not lost on Cid right now. Back home he'd been the "Mags", taking people in and letting them help out around the Hideaway. )

[ramuhed]

( Later on there'll be an amazing discussion about worlds, finding that there are Summoned who come from worlds not so similar to Cids, but with the same trappings of eikons and crystals, names going hand in hand with each other yet making little sense in terms of events.

For now though ignorance could be considered bliss and Cid nods as Geralt mentions being taken. He's glad someone else has used that phrase, taken. There's little point in sugar coating it for what it is and the use of such a word speaks volumes about a person. Even if all the arrivals happened the same, it wouldn't change the outcome. )

Nah, don't quite fancy bein' recruited into someone else's war just yet. Only been here five minutes and they've already been watching. Been there, done that, got the souvenir. First things first; think you could point a guy in the direction of the nearest tavern?

[earthborn]

The fact that you're still excited to be here.

[Abraxas wears you down after a while. If she were a more poetic sort, she might find a metaphor in that, and the rasping grit that surrounds the Free Cities, and Cadens most particularly. But she isn't.]

I'd ask what brings you to Free Cities, but I've been there. Where are you from, Doc?

Cadens

[accommodated]

[ Desmond will give Cadens this: it's a fascinating place to move around in. Plenty of places to hide and watch from, people to talk to, favors to do for a few coins. It's almost like an instinct now-- find your vantage points, map it all out, slide into the public easy as you please. A skill he's always had, for sure, but this time? Bit more confidence to pull it off.

People will tell you a lot if you're willing to do little things for them.

That's really the only reason there's any coin for there to be pickpocketed in the first place, lucky for Nate.

Unlucky for Nate, Desmond is also quite good at it and knows how to spot a thief even without some special sight, especially when there's lots of people to blend right in with. ]

Hey, man-- missing something?

[ Never mind that it's like hearing yourself, pal, be a bit more concerned with the guy cheerfully sitting up on a high tree, tossing and catching that hard earned coin. Desmond is pretty fast when he wants to be. ]

[kingforboth]

Jesu Kelson hated this stupid game. But he still played it. Put his game face on and changed to a carefully neutral expression. But his grey eyes still echoed his emotion. So, he mentally went back in time, to a time when things weren't as safe. When he was surrounded by hostiles to played at advising him. Gwynedd may be in a better position now, but clearly Thorne wasn't. Or they wouldn't be outright body snatching from other worlds.

He thought about switching to mind-speech but, that could be picked up. And who knew how schooled those around him were in it. No, no chances. So, he let himself nonchalantly glance at those around him, noting who was starting to take notice, whose body language betrayed them and raised his voice a little so they could be overheard.

"Well, it seems my kingdom has much to learn from Thorne."

God he hated it here already. And he hated not being in an easy position to influence the change he desperately wanted to make. He was about to snatch the notebook to ask where was a safe place, but. That was obvious. No where in Castle Thorne.

Linhardt von Hevring | Fire Emblem: Three Houses | Thorne | The High Priestess

[sleepfan]

Arrival

[Linhardt sees no reason not to take the hand offered to him in the void. In truth, staying in the void would have been quite pleasant if it weren't for the suffocating sensation in his lungs, but that did put a damper on things. Where he is pulled to is unpleasantly bright and crowded in comparison to the peacefulness of the void.

Normally, he would be quite cross at being pulled into such a rousing situation, but he...doesn't feel tired? That can't be right. He's always tired.

Ah. Someone is saying something. Some sort of reassurance. Linhardt holds up a finger, indicating that they should wait. He is busy. Do not tell him he is fine. He does not know that yet. It does appear that he is in good condition, physically. A bit chilly due to the draft and his lack of clothing, but nothing more. Except something is wrong.

Standing is surprisingly easy and doesn't require the willpower it ordinarily does. Yet something feels lacking. He closes his eyes: his magical senses are working fine: He can tell who is in the room. But when he holds out his palm and attempts to summon fire, all that he manages is a wisp of smoke. Linhardt frowns and begins to attend to himself, checking his pulse and other vitals and completely ignoring both the 'High Mage' (Good, that means wherever he is, he isn't responsible for anything) and his underling until his checks are complete.

Hmm. He needs more time to unravel this. Being unable to summon his magic makes him feel far more 'naked' than his lack of clothing. At the same time, it is impossible to deny the sheer amount of energy he has at the moment. Is this why Caspar, Ferdinand, and Edelgard can always do things?

Finally, Linhardt accepts the clothes (at least these people, whoever they are, are civilized) and follows the apprentice, though he pays little attention to what he's told and immediately wanders off the accepted path when they pass a library, ignoring his handler in favor of indulging his own curiosity about the situation. He does not care about the Kingdom of Thorne or its peril. He does care about magic and where his has disappeared to, and the apprentice is unhelpful. Therefore there is no reason to stay with him.]

You can go do something else. I am aware of how castles are constructed.

[He can find his own way around. The apprentice is welcome to putter elsewhere.]

Exploring - Equestrian Exhibition

[Linhardt doesn't dislike horses. He doesn't like them either, but if he were truthfully pressed about why he is present, it is because events like these tend to have good food and he's hungrier than he usually is. He has no intention of getting involved in anyone's affairs, but it is difficult to ignore a child being berated to nearly the point of tears for falling off her pony.]

Yes. By all means. Scolding her will clearly reverse the flow of time and make her a more skilled rider. And your disheveled outburst is of no annoyance to anyone around you and is by no means a spectacle.

[Nobles are the same everywhere, it seems, and making a scene is mortifying enough to shut the parent up (and for the girl to smile behind her hand). Unfortunately, now Linhardt has an 8 year old girl stuck to him like a barnacle, leading him to approach the nearest person who looks like they might have some idea about how to proceed.]

Hello. I require assistance. Are you an equestrian?

Settling In - Magic Lessons

[Boring. Why are classes always so boring? And why are students so annoying? The burst of energy he experienced upon his arrival has drained, leaving Linhardt in his usual exhausted and cranky state, but at least his magic has returned. Though he still does not understand why, and he had to recalculate several key constants to make it work properly. Unfortunately, his self-studying had hit a wall as the books in the libraries written for a more advanced audience assume some Abraxas-specific instruction he has not been privy to. Hence his attendance.

All nobles are insufferable. All classes are boring.

Which is why Linhardt is sleeping resoundingly in the back of the room, drooling on the desk until a particularly bright flash of light wakes him up. It's not a good way to wake up.]

For Sothis's sake! Physically make space! It isn't difficult!

[Linhardt follows up his outburst with an eye roll and then rubs his eyes with a yawn, finally looking over at the person who is now staring at him.]

What?

Nocwich - Elixir Shop

[Being at least somewhat prudent when it comes to matters that are not his research, Linhardt has managed to turn the small amount of money he's acquired by helping someone with a particularly nasty hangover into a somewhat less small amount of money - a fluency in statistics as well as a willingness to cheat by moving dice with magic served him well - though he left the moment he received any attention, uncomfortable with people's eyes on him.

In some ways, Nocwich is similar to Abyss, and Linhardt conducts himself similarly: Stay out of the way and observe things that are interesting.

Until he sees the elixir shops, where he abandons all sense of self-restraint and immediately begins peppering the proprietor with enough questions that the poor merchant looks like they aren't sure whether to punch Linhardt or tell him to leave. Their tune changes when Linhardt shoves his entire wallet at them, leaving with 3 elixirs and 2 pieces of the tempting glowing candy.

One of which the healer promptly stuffs into his mouth. Oh, someone else is looking at the stall.]

Do you want this piece? I will give it to you if you allow me to compare and contrast its effects on each of us.

[Is there variance?]

Nocwich - Hot Springs

[The hot springs are delightful. Linhardt unabashedly removes all of his clothing and dunks himself into the warm water, almost immediately falling asleep as the heat seeps into his consistently tired form and lulls him off to sleep.

Still, the habits gained over years of conflict do not cease immediately, and when the water sloshes and someone else joins his pool, Linhardt groans and sits up, though he doesn't open his eyes to see who's joined him.]

Really? Must you? All of the other ones are completely full?

[Why ruin something so relaxing and peaceful with other people?]

II - Magic Lessons

[sleepfan]

[Linhardt has a headache; there are too many idiots around him that cannot understand the difference between summoning light and summoning force. Light is a byproduct, not the point, and they need to ensure that there is physical space for the shield. Why is this hard for them? It isn't hard.

Being a magical scholar from a land that practices some forms of magic similarly to the Abraxan concept of Academic Magic, Linhardt has also picked up on the spell fairly quickly. He's spent his extra time in the class napping and working out the fundamental differences between Abraxan magic and the system with which he is more familiar.

After summoning a shield, Linhardt has devoted his energy to summoning different shapes, taking the opportunity to test the topographical limits of the spell. What would happen if someone attempted to summon a Gabriel's Horn?

But he can only try to force his attention for so long. He turns to the other man with a look that can only be described as appreciation. Somebody understands.]

I agree. Should we leave and do something more interesting? I would say I feel like a five year old, but my tutors were not this slow.

Kitchens | Spoilers are fine!

[sleepfan]

[Linhardt is in the process of mapping the castle. Luckily, there are only so many feasible layouts for an effective castle and therefore finding his way is less difficult than it would have been if he were unfamiliar with the structures. The growl of his stomach distracts him enough from his work that he's made his way towards the kitchens.

Only to run into someone leaving. He tilts his head at the offer, but nods. He would like one.]

Yes.

[They smell amazing.]

You are rather small. Is that a problem?

Nocwich

[sleepfan]

"Do not forget your physician." The words slipped out of their own accord; there was something familiar in the man's words; it brings to mind the scoldings that he and Caspar had received as children due to their insistence on sneaking out of the fortress meant to shelter them. Linhardt himself had frequently chafed under the limitations of his own position, though given the man's clear discomfort he seemed even more sheltered than Linhardt had been.

Linhardt has a bearing that is likely familiar despite the fact that he has not bothered to acquire any additional clothing or signifiers of noble status: The money he earned was for more important things, like magical research.

"You need better advisors."

He paused, weighing whether or not to continue with the conversation. It might be boring, after all.

"You stick out like a sore thumb. I want to pickpocket you."

Is this what people in Abyss thought of Linhardt?

Re: Nocwich

[kingforboth]

The king went for the dagger hidden in the wrist sheath he didn't have, because dammit he wasn't in his own world anymore. Kelson bit back a retort already on his lips, and swallowed it. He was unarmed, and not going to get into a fight with a strange person without any backup. Then everyone would really be upset when they had to break in a new king.

"If I had anything left worth pickpocketing you might even have fun with it." Kelson decided that was a safe enough comment. "And you're quite right, my physician would be equally upset."

He rolled the others words over, dissecting them. "I take it you are significantly higher in status than a regular pickpocket?"