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

[invicto]

[ Regardless of Finn's intentions, the moment James sees him unsheathe that dagger, he is sure that he's not imagining things. The guy is a threat, what any other reason would he have to pull out a weapon after chasing him into an alleyway.

He gives him a few good seconds, so he steps further into the dark, away from the crowds. Easier not to notice the ruckus as James emerges from the shadows, movements swift as he lands a blow on Finn's wrist. He's lean, not too tall and not exactly big, but he's definitely stronger than he looks, and between that and the element of surprise, hopefully he's able to dislodge the dagger from Finn's hand, flipping it around as he slams Finn back against the nearest wall.

The dagger is held up high, not close enough to cause damage, but making it clear that he could have easily gone for Finn's throat if he wanted to. ]

Who are you and why are you following me?

[invicto]

[ Has he noticed the doctor before, or is he just now realizing that he's ended up here too? Well, either way, he doesn't let any potential surprise show. There's only the slightest arch of an eyebrow as he turns to look at McCoy, but it could easily be in reaction to his comment. ]

Can't fault me for being honest, then.

[ Well, this time anyway. He sweeps a hand over his hair, wiping some of the sweat off his brow. ]

Are you fighting me or what?

nocwich –> shops

[pacificator]

Sure. It'll look great when you head back to Munchkinland and drop a house on the Wicked Witch of the West.

[ He's not short short, but it's close enough, and she's tired, confused, annoyed. It's not going to be her best work.

Wynonna eyes a fur-lined cloak in varying shades of purple. Bobo would love it here, probably. He'd probably already be out inciting the werewolves to rebellion while draping himself in clothing made of their fur.

This place is messed up. ]

Tell me, what is it about a pair of socks that calls to you, in this particular situation? Because I'm not getting the appeal.

[ She'd rather have pants. ]

That is the proper response to Linhardt, yes

[sleepfan]

"That depends on whether we are in Nocwich or Castle Thorne." Linhardt answered, "And what would you suggest? That we leave those fleeing to their own devices?" If he fled, he could protect others who were running.

"Yes." The reply was short, Linhardt's words clipped, "I have."

"Which is why I am not in any rush to participate in another one." A combination of annoyance and hopelessness leaked into Linhardt's voice. He knew his stance on violence and conflict wasn't reasonable. He knew. He sighed and closed his eyes, "I will defend myself." Linhardt swallowed, now pre-occupied with thoughts of what it would be to be taken from one war and thrown into another one, "Is it so wrong to not want to bring harm to people who likely also have no choice in the matter?"

He was weary in a different way than his usual physical exhaustion, "And is it so wrong to be willing to endure some discomfort to not do so?" 'Some discomfort' was one way to describe attempted murder, "Stab wounds do not keep me awake at night." The people he's killed did.

Nocwich!

[soothsighs]

( Urianger always takes the opportunity to visit Nocwich's markets when the portals open to them — not least because there's always some new curio or trinket for him to discover and take back to Thorne. He's become something of a magpie in that sense, especially if any of said curios pertain to the celestial bodies of Abraxas, and he's perusing what appears to be a small music box inscribed with now familiar constellations when—

Ah, dear. Another over-enthusiastic vendor, or so it would seem, with a woman he doesn't recognise quite firmly in their cross-hairs. Urianger clears his throat firmly: )

Forgive my interruption, I prithee, but the lady hath made her decision plain.

( Dressed head to to in floor-skimming black probably has him cutting a somehwhat ominous figure, but it's offset with little sparkles of gold here and there that match the warmth of golden eyes. )

'Twould be poor practice indeed to force a decision in thy favour.

[hatejakku]

The shove lands, Finn being too close and at an awkward angle to block it. While he's heavier than what he looks, Wrench has little trouble putting more distance between them.

But Finn's trained and smart. Instead of letting the move surprise him, he turns with the momentum, aiming a kick to Wrench's shins like he looks to unbalance him right back. Not a graceful move for him, but it's had decent results in the past.

[hatejakku]

Swan races. [ Doesn't sound like they were in the water either. What is this place? ]

I guess every place has their traditions and... quirks.

[ And now he's just trying to rationalize all this to himself. It's already been a long day. ]

Have you long been here? Or are you from this place?

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora nods slowly, because she does get it. There were nice people in the Horde, like Scorpia and even Lonnie, but the Horde was bad. So, she does think she understands what River's saying. ]

Yeah, that does, actually. I've actually met some pretty nice people here too. It's all really weird, honestly. And I don't like being used as part of...anything.

[ It's eerily close to being brought through a portal as a baby, lied to about it, and used for a war. She's already gone through it, she's been the weapon, destroyer of the world, and she hopes she's a little wiser in this world. She also hopes the magic isn't as powerful as on Etheria, that it doesn't all come down to one person. ]

[youmiscalculated]

[ That's probably right. It sounds right to Adora, anyway. ]

Well, whatever they're trying to convince me of, so far it isn't working. Mostly because I have no idea what that is. I mean, I get what I was told but I don't really trust any of this, like...at all.

[ Adora's not wild on conspiracy, but she's been through a war, and she was really looking forward to retirement at the ripe old age of twenty. ]

[provenforce]

[ Focused on the memorial she hadn't noticed she had company, so she straightens slowly, turning to look at the woman who has spoken up. ]

No...

[ She replies hesitantly, hardly in a position to explain why she was here and felt responsible for the lives of these people. Though she doesn't look native at all, and when Rey reaches out with the Force she can sense it in this woman. Not the same as a Jedi or a Sith, but there all the same. It's this that releases some of the tension in her shoulders. ]

I just feel like I could have maybe done more to save them.

[hatejakku]

Hi.

[ Finn takes the offered hand gratefully, pulling himself to his feet and making sure he's not hurt. Then, after a beat, making sure the other guy isn't hurt either. Finn's pretty sure the ground is the only thing that caught his fall, though. ]

Thanks. Did you see what caused that? It came out of nowhere.

[slipscream]

( ... Jill Warrick? Again, there's that surge of familiarity that suggests she should know who this woman is — but then it hits her square in the chest before she has the time to begin puzzling over it. )

... Shiva's Dominant.

( What is she doing here of all places? Benedikta laughs bitterly as the man seated across the table vacates quickly and quietly, the sound cracked and cold in a way that suggests she's unpacticed in laughing for actual joy. )

My, my. Your reputation precedes you, Jill Warrick. You gave Titan a run for his money, did you not?

( Benedikta affixes her with a sharp, assessing look as she reaches out to reclaim the knife from her. Kupka hadn't been afraid of "a little frost", and in his Primed form he'd had good reason not to be, but Shiva certainly hadn't made the fight easy for him. )

Now. What do you want with me, or are you simply in the habit of sparing miserable nobodies a little humiliation?

[youmiscalculated]

[ The sound Adora makes is close to a squeal but not quite, she reaches out for the cloak and touches it, already seeing how it would fit with She-Ra's costume. ]

It's beautiful. [ She has a realization and her smiles falls. ]

I don't have enough yet, I haven't found a job yet. Which is a little intimidating since I've never had one. I mean, I have but I don't think it's the kind of job available here. Plus it didn't pay, and I really want to come back and get this cloak.

[ And as far as she knows, this planet's future doesn't rest on her shoulders. ]

[gynvael]

Mm-hm.

[ Geralt turns to point at the feathery white hurricane flapping some feet ahead in the face of an unfortunate shopkeeper. A loud honk splits the air.

There it is. The delinquent swan. One of several. Geralt's largely avoided them by simply letting other people deal with it. He's paid to kill monsters, not birds. ]

It's a recent development. [ He looks the man up and down. ] You're new.

[ It's not really a question. ]

[hatejakku]

[ Finn clocks the movement, but it's too close and he's too slow. Before he knows it, his heart's in his throat and his back's to the wall. He's about to retaliate despite the obvious glint of his dagger in the attacker's hand. His hands are still free, after all.

But the move is aborted once he recognizes the face and noticeably relaxes. It's the man from earlier, very much not getting eaten by some kind of monster. That's when he realizes he's being interrogated. ]

I wasn't follow- [ Oh... Oh... His eyes close for a second, wincing. ] Okay. Okay, yeah, I was following you. I'm sorry. I recognized the uniform and thought you might not be from here either. I just wanted to talk. Then I lost you and got worried and-

[ His bare hands that are being held up in surrender make a shrugging motion as if to say, "and now we're here!" ]

My name's Finn. I arrived on planet a few days ago.

[slipscream]

( Benedikta looks ... surprised, at that revelation. She hadn't known Cid went to her after their fight because she'd likely been fucking dead — but it would be so very like him, wouldn't it, to save his sentiment to the last. A handful of emotions flicker across Benedikta's expression, then — confusion, denial, heartbreak, rage — before landing on something smooth and sharp.

The truth of it? Yes, she is. Benedikta is afraid that someone might have cared for her in a way that actually mattered at the moment of her death; someone who knew her before Waloed, before Barnabas, before fear drove her into the tangled web of someone else's vision for the world. )

Cid is nothing to me.

( A lie. An obvious one, at that, because if there's one thing it's hard for her to hide it's the shattered mess of her heart. )

You are nothing to me.

( She sucks in a hissing breath through her teeth before taking a step towards him, her expresion cold. )

I will find a way to take Garuda back from you, and when I do? I'll kill you for what you did to me. To my future.

arrival

[provenforce]

[ The disorientation of the absence of Force is a distant memory called back in the moment, but what's disoriented her more is being on this world again, but in an entirely different place. She is looking for familiar faces among the strange, wondering if anyone else who was once in Thorne had woken up here as well.

One face she didn't expect to see was Finn's. Surprised but elated she pushes through the crowd, calling out his name. ]

Finn!

[hatejakku]

[ A recent development, huh? There's a story there, and Finn's not entirely sure he wants to know it. But he turns his attention away from said feathery hurricane when the man continues. ]

Hm? Yeah, I just arrived this morning. That obvious?

[ Not blending in too well, apparently, but that's okay. Probably. Then he looks the other man up and down himself. ]

Are you not from here either?

[ He can't tell but it's worth asking. ]

[bioterror]

( Kirk's opponent, a man glancing between the two of them with obviously growing unease, fucks right off after a hard look from McCoy. He doesn't regret scaring him off. There'll always be another opportunity to watch the Captain play with some unwitting idiot.

Rolling his eyes at Kirk's impatience, he rolls his shoulders, sheds his jacket, and slides smoothly into a stance, slashing the sword at him with every intent to maim. )

So, ( McCoy drawls, like they've sat down for tea, ) When did you get here, Jimmy?

[hatejakku]

[ His head swivels around fast enough to give himself whiplash, which is hardly on his list of things to worry about right now. Because he sees her, parting through the people, running to him- ]

Rey!

[ Very quickly, he meets her halfway and wraps her in a tight hug. ]

I had no idea you were here!

[ Obviously. How could he know? But this sort of thing didn't used to take him by surprise. Before, he just knew. ]

they're both cut from the same cloth 🤝 but also hilda has an unseen servant now who does it for h

[theidlemaiden]

[ In any other situation she would find the amusement in him being able to precisely remember when he had fallen asleep. After all, Lindhardt pritoritized his sleep as much as he cared for his friends so knowing what time he went to bed the night prior was definitely in line with what she remembered of him. Unfortunately confusion outweighs the date he rattles off. The furrow in her brow deepens. ] 

Claude is from after the war. It's been over for him for a while. Sylvain and I are from the same date as you, but we weren't at any sort of plains. We were at Gronder Field and everyone was there. The Kingdom, the Empire... 

[ Her voice trails off as she tries to shake the sudden feeling of cold fog clinging to her skin moments before the battle was meant to begin. She'd never forget the tension that filled the air, the silence that felt like it would shatter if someone so much as coughed. Dispelling the thought, she gives her head a quick shake. ] 

Petra and Marianne were also from after the war but they remember things differently from one another. Petra said that the Empire won the war, while Claude and Marianne experienced the Alliance winning. Sylavin isn't through the war yet but we can only assume that the Kingdom won too. [ Winning seems like such an awful word to use; there is no winning. It's simply a matter of who survived. ] And we all remember the professor differently. Claude, Marianne and I knew the professor as male. But Sylvain and Petra knew her to be a woman. The Byleth that was here was also a womann. Which is to say that we think there are different timelines at play here. 

[ Pink eyes dart from her tea cup up towards Lindhardt's face to watch for his reaction. All of that seems fairly easy to comprehend in comparison to this revelation about Rhea being the literal founding saint of the church. The shock this time bleeds into laughter towards Lindhardt's vocal disappointment, somehow softening the news that Setheh is also a saint. That is until - ]

What do you mean Setheth is a Saint?! 

[everybodylives]

No.

[Her tone hardened and her eyes were troubled even if her face didn't show it otherwise.]

I don't much like being used as part of something against my will either.

[She'd already lived through it once herself, raised and conditioned to be a weapon. She wondered briefly if anyone liked being used, or if there were people without the experience to understand that was what was being done to them. But the girl seemed to understand, and that made River look at her a little more closely.]

Speaking from experience?

[gynvael]

It's the uniform.

[ Nobody wears that unless they're newly arrived or enlisted. And if they were enlisted, they wouldn't be covering it under a robe. Besides, he's been here for two summers. New faces are easier for him to recognize. ]

No. [ He starts to walk. The man appears to not be heading anywhere in particular, and Geralt has a delivery to make. Geralt himself likely blends decently well, disregarding the hair and the eyes; his clothes are plain enough—black, linen, leather—that they don't really speak of where he could be from regardless of where he finds himself. ]

I was brought here some time ago. Have you got a name?

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora looks sharply at River in recognition at her tone. That 'no' says more than her next sentence. Something in Adora's chest tightens, and as they enter the quiet kitchen, she pauses. She's never explained it to anyone who wasn't there with her, so she has no idea how this will sound. ]

I was...a weapon. I didn't know it, I was just made that way. You saw her, just now, in the hall. Her name is She-Ra. When I was activated, I couldn't control what was happening. Well, I wasn't supposed to be able to control it.

[ She smiles thinly, because at the time it was a hollow victory. the sword was shattered, Glimmer was gone, and Adora didn't know what her own purpose was anymore. ]

I still don't know how I did it.

[ The pain had been like being on fire from the inside out, as magic poured into and then out of her, but if she was going to die, she was going to at least die trying to stop herself. ]

[glaciare]

( Jill, too, doesn’t have a damned clue how that’s supposed to work. There’s a world outside of Storm and Ash that perhaps others could be from, true, but that wouldn’t explain how they’ve never heard of them. Her brow furrows, and if Reno isn’t going to ask then she is. )

Then how— ( She understands others being from other worlds but— ) Does the term ‘Eikon’ mean anything to you?