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.

---

return to main navigation

Comments

sorry he's actually kind of f'ed up (like the rest of them lol)

[sleepfan]

[All Hilda's bitterness receives in response is a raised eyebrow and a mildly confused expression.]

Why would being friends mean he wouldn't lie or have secrets? I have secrets from Edelgard, Edelgard has secrets from Ferdinand and likely Hubert, Hubert has secrets from Edelgard and Ferdinand...

[Linhardt trails off as he realizes at just that moment that maybe that isn't How Things Are Everywhere. It's normal to him. His eyebrows furrow.]

Is that not right?

[It's an oddly childish question in that Linhardt asks it out of genuine confusion about a basic social idea he wants to understand: 'Wait, are we fucked up? You are a Socially Mature person. Please answer.'

The moment passes, and Linhardt's eyes sharpen with ideas as they delve deeper into areas that he does understand (unlike what social relationships should be like): Hilda is right that she may not remember.]

You're right. I'll need to investigate and ensure that there is some way to transmit information with us when we go back to Fodlan.

[Linhardt isn't going to push. He can figure out something else - some other way to get the information he wants to the places it should be. It isn't as though Hilda is refusing anything truly important, like studying her Crest or her Arcana. She's not wrong: there are people in her Fodlan who could do a better job.]

Thank you for reminding me: There is no point in giving you a headache over something that might not matter and isn't even your responsibility.

[If Hilda wants to spend her time in Fodlan lounging around, Linhardt thinks she should. She's right: If Claude and Lorenz want to deal with all that nonsense, she might as well let them. Linhardt would absolutely cease to have any concern about Fodlan if Edelgard, Hubert, or Ferdinand showed up.

He's somewhat reminded of Ferdinand, actually: Both he and Hilda are very, very social. Get to know each other better?]

Why?

[Linhardt doesn't have anything against Sylvain. He doesn't know Sylvain.]

Doesn't he mostly like attractive women, eating all the sweet buns so nobody else can have any, and pretending to be stupid?

[Anxiety flashes across Linhardt's face and the healer breaks eye contact with Hilda, instead fidgeting with his hands with his lap and then looking around the tea shop. Then he traces a finger around the outside of his tea cup. Then he takes one sip, puts the tea cup down, and immediately picks it up again for another drink.]

I don't imagine I'm very interesting to him. You know I like magic and Crests. What else is there to know? I'm boring.

[The anxiety has been shoved away in favor of flippancy.]

I could hardly subject someone so keen on following her heart to boredom.

I don't know how long you have been here, and you are a very social and charming person. You might have other friends and allies.

[Linhardt sighs when Hilda makes a very valid point. It's still one he doesn't want to hear.]

Can't I just stay away from everyone?

I'm not you three. It's easy for you.

[flagrates]

[ He's impressed by the water bubble, more so that it doesn't seem to cause her any harm — that's part of what causes it to click in his head that she's not from his world. But then, the similarities are too close to ignore.

In response to her question, he raises his own hand out of the water, sending up a bright fireball to float just about his head, illuminating the pool in just a bit more light. ]

I am his Dominant. I carry his power within me, and then when needed, I can summon him forth through my body.

[ It's one way of putting it, anyway. ]

And I have done battle with him, yes. Both against, and as him.

jon snow!!! they can bond over having left behind their wolf buddies at home :(

[flagrates]

[ Despite the three other beds in the room, Clive hadn't been expecting anyone else to come in. He jumps nearly out of his skin at the sound of another person and sits up, wary, though he relaxes minutely when he realizes the other person isn't here to attack him, or even really do anything other than ask him a question.

Clive sighs, raking a hand through his hair, looking down at his hands. ]

Everything.

[ Her name is Jill. ]

[flagrates]

[ She's right about Torgal, and he smiles a little at the thought, though it doesn't last long, because he realizes: ]

He's not here with you either, then, is he?

[ Torgal, he means. ]

Then we can count him lucky to not be trapped here like us.

[ That hurts, the realization that while it made sense that Torgal hadn't arrived with him, he'd left the wolf with Jill to protect her. So if Jill was here, and Torgal wasn't, then..

Torgal was left alone. Again. Another reason to find a way back home as soon as possible. Even if it meant his death. He feels guilty about it, but there's also a sense of relief as well, because the last thing Clive wants is for someone else he loves to get caught up in whatever mess he's been forcibly conscripted into. ]

Jill, [ he says, almost sighing her name out as he leans his forehead against hers once more, closing his eyes. ]

What have we been dragged into?

[flagrates]

Like a cage, [ he says with no small hint of bitterness. ]

The mages are kind and provide us with all we need. But I can't help but feel there's something we're missing. No one with that much power gives things away for free.

[flagrates]

It never is.

[ He smirks a little at that, resting his head back on the ledge, staring up at the night sky above them. He doesn't recognize any of the patterns of stars, there's no Metia next to the moon. Completely unfamiliar, and it unsettles him, sparks a small protective urge in him to keep Jill close. They're truly out of their depth, here, at the mercy of their captors. ]

First it's loyalty and then it's your blood. And after that, all they ask for is your soul, and woe betide the man who refuses to give that.

[flagrates]

Perhaps.

[ The creature has a point, and Clive crosses his arms in contemplation, musing as the curtains close on intermission. ]

Romance isn't for everyone. I was always much fonder of the epic tales of god versus man, myself.

[ He still is, even though he's... lived it. ]

I agree about the fight scenes. It's difficult to do sword work on stage.

[hatejakku]

[ Even though Finn outright said it, he's a little surprised by the question. He's referred to this as a planet many times before, but James is the first to ask. ]

I am. Our galaxy is almost fully mapped out, and I feel like I've been to every corner of it. That doesn't seem to be the case for most people here, though.

[ So he understands if that sounds crazy to James, but he doesn't think it does. ]

What about you?

marble engravings

[fogsong]

[ The marble engravings capture her interest and provide a much-needed distraction from the worries that threaten to overwhelm her. She feels out of place in this world. Out of place and alone.

Chrollo's voice startles her and she realizes she's been watching for a little too long. ]

Shit, uh... No, I'm just watching. That doesn't bother you, does it? [ She knows some artists don't enjoy it. ]

[crossreversed]

No, it's fine, although if you were hoping to see something interesting I'm really not much of a sculptor.

[He wonders if she's more interested in the tool or the art, it's not always easy to tell. Either way she was clearly absorbed in watching him if the way she was startled when he spoke to her is any indication.]

[gratified]

Excuse me, (Igraine says abruptly, but she is not speaking to Murderbot. She is looking at the person running the stall they've been standing at, because he is obviously trying to listen in, his body angled toward them across the table.) Do you mind?

(To Murderbot,) Not here.

(It would be better to talk about these things in privacy.) Once you're done looking.

[wasalmostdaphne]

[There's a definite whiplash at how nonchalant Adora is treating 'saves the universe.' Of course this is after clearly not wanting to be the center of attention. Too bad. Bay's expression is still mostly one of concern and sympathy.]

Even eight foot tall and armed, that still seems like a lot to put on one person. Even with friends helping you to figure out everything.

[She assumes, especially with names like She-Ra, Adora, and Glimmer, that this is one of those fantasy things she has no knowledge of. They feel like fantasy names, such they should be doing quest-like things as a group right? Bay really wishes she watched more nerd things with Emmett when he offered.]

Having your whole life decided on the day you were born sucks. At least you got a neat sword out of it.

words cannot express how impressed i am by this icon existing

[pepsifree]

[ Oh, thank God. Sure, considering the number of sips Marty's already had (and by sips he means glugs-- he isn't a square), if the beer was magic he probably would've been screwed regardless. But it's always nice to know someone else could've been screwed with him.

It's impossible to hide his relieved sigh. ]

For what it's worth [ Marty finishes the last of the drink, then asks for another-- but for the guy beside him instead of himself ] I think it's cool you tried it even if it could've bunnified you.

[ Reminds him a little bit of his best friend. ]

I still don't get how all this magic stuff works. [ Marty folds his arms over the counter, shaking his head. ] We don't have any where I'm from. That or we haven't discovered it yet. [ His brows furrow. ] I still haven't figured out where in the timeline this place is supposed to be.

You ever seen any before getting here?

[catchtheseclaws]

Catra squints at Adora, suspicious that she might have already consumed too much of this coffee stuff. She's even more energetic than usual.

"Someone brought you a cloak just because you thought it was pretty?" she repeats, torn between being baffled and even more suspicious. "And she didn't want anything in return? She's lying, she has to want something. She just didn't tell you what it is right away."

Which, in Catra's opinion, is so much worse. If she's going to owe someone, she'd prefer it if they were upfront about it.

Still, she doesn't want to rain too hard on Adora's parade. She looks so happy right now, happier than Catra's seen her in a long time. So Catra dutifully keeps pace as they head toward wherever this apparently miraculous food is, and finds her lips curling into a little grin. "I feel like we just got done figuring out everything that Bright Moon served. Now we've got a whole new world of food to figure out. I never guessed that many kinds of food even existed."

[catchtheseclaws]

Catra doesn't think she's ever had anything that could be described as pleasant conversation (though that's probably because of Catra being Catra and not the world she came from), so she ignores that part, and focuses instead on the fact that apparently everyone here can build a part of a psychic plane for themselves.

What. Seriously? That's a thing? Look, Catra's no expert on psychic stuff, but that sounds ridiculous.

Ridiculously cool!

Istredd's being pretty obvious with his gesturing, which Catra kinda appreciates, actually. It's nice to not have to guess at some things in coming to this stupid place. So, Castle Thorne has ears everywhere and doesn't appreciate criticism. Got it. She desperately wants to ask what happens to people who talk shit in the open, but it's probably wise to play things safe for now.

"And anybody can just use this Horizon thing? Even someone whose only experience with psychics is an alien cat who responds to emotions?" Ugh. She misses Melog. "And everybody just has their own space? That's cool. Weird! But cool. Is it just a place to hang out or could someone, like, invade someone else's brain if they're hooked up to the Horizon?"

IT’S NOT HIS FAULT THIS TIME it’s the swan’s

[rookvision]

I told you! Nothing! Why, I’d even go so far as to say it’s an ungrateful little wanker because I was feeding it before it yanked the hat right off my head.

[Okay, so maybe a chunk of bread might’ve accidentally knocked the swan on the head, but he hadn’t thought it would take that much offense. He huffs out a breath, peeved by how this day has been going for him—first having to deal with real actual magic being a thing, then the swan, then his hat going missing.

At least Evie’s here. He would miss her, if she wasn’t here—he hadn’t entirely let himself think about what it meant that he was here and she wasn’t. And now he doesn’t have to!]

And I just bought that hat. Not twenty minutes before that feathered fiend decided to take it for himself, in fact.

[parce]

Is that right?

( and nikolai thought he was charming. could he have met his match? it's possible. he smirks easily, tilting his head. )

And how is that?

multiplayer cosmetics are a blessing

[sketchycharacter]

[He'll take the compliment, even if he thinks there are worse things out there than being turned into a bunny. If beer can turn someone into a bunny, something else has to be able to turn them back, right?

Maybe magic hard liquor.]

Eh...not really, but kinda. I've seen some weird shit that some people might call the result of magic, but that doesn't mean it was. More likely it was just weird shit that most people wouldn't understand.

[Wait. Rewind.]

Hang on, 'timeline'?

[sketchycharacter]

Everyone can use charm and wiles. They're almost as effective as guns and significantly less messy.

[But yeah...he doesn't actually disagree, and that probably shows on his face.]

At least we can roam a little. I'm pretty over being locked in jail cells by assholes.

[fogsong]

Neither am I. [ She can't judge his work, she just finds it fascinating. He doesn't seem to have any real plan for the sculpture as far as she can tell but that's not a statement on his skill. ] For not much of a sculptor, I'd say you're doing pretty well and I'd argue it's interesting to watch you work.

[ Forward, but she has no reason to pretend otherwise. She's more interested in how he uses the tool than the actual sculpture. The way he tilts for some of the lines has her lean in to get a better look. ]

[glaciare]

( It may be harsh, but it is what she asked for. Jill doesn't flinch, nor give much away as to her thoughts until the other woman finishes. Her hands flex into fists for a moment before she forces them to relax. )

I see. ( Her voice is hard, ice-like. Not at the other woman, no. But at having been thrown into another situation where the powers that be might seek to manipulate her. Where she might be in the position to serve a leader she despises. It sits poorly on her shoulders, in her heart -- hadn't they just fought so hard to free themselves from such a thing? ) And what of the retaliation? I cannot imagine such a thing going unanswered.

[crossreversed]

[Chrollo wonders what this tool would do to flesh and bone, but this isn't the time to test that. He would have to get one and find somewhere more private to find that out. Preferably once his nen is under his control again, and on someone more enjoyable to kill than a target of convenience.

None of those dark thoughts show on his amiable smile he offers her or the focused look as he makes more lines, slowly outlining and filling in a stylized bear.]

Thank you, I'm glad to hear I'm not completely hopeless at this. It's an interesting tool, I wouldn't mind having one to experiment with it further.

[invicto]

[ James give a whole new meaning to the word charming. Worse yet, he knows that he is, and he's absolutely not above using it to his own advantage. Not that he wants anything in particular out of Nikolai, but who knows? He may yet prove useful. Or a fun time, if nothing else. ]

Well, [ His tone dips almost imperceptibly, smile a little too pleased. ] Usually people do that by talking, no?

[invicto]

[ It's a curious little detail. Maybe James just hasn't talked to a lot of people, but it's nevertheless interesting that that's how Finn immediately describes it, like it's natural to him. ]

I'm not most people, then.

[ He takes a sip from his drink. Now's the time when he needs to start being careful about how much he'll share. ]

We have a good portion of our galaxy yet unexplored, back in my reality, but it's still a pretty big place. Space travel is fairly commonplace. Personally, I'm more used to being on a starship than not.

[pepsifree]

[ Marty's about to quote Doc, something about how he's been told "magic is just science we don't understand yet", when the guy's request for clarification makes him blink.

Play dumb, McFly! ] Huh?

Who said anything about timelines?

[ Smooth. ]