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

[respiting]

[ Honestly, it's a good point. And if Cal were to bring it up, the question of getting your own live bugs out of the ground for free rather than paying for seasonless wriggling worms would have Rocket questioning the practices of those fancy restaurants in the galaxy that do exactly that.

And then he'd make a big stink about it, and have absolutely no qualms about stealing from them later.

Maybe.

Well. He's supposed to set a good example or whatever, now that he's a Guardian, but the thought would still be a good one.

ANYWAY ... the guy's question does have him raising an eyebrow, teeth bared like a grin. Oh, kid, you are making it too easy to take the piss. ]

I dunno. [ Pleasantly. ] Do you wanna try and see?

[respiting]

Yeah, that's more like it. Romance? Who needs it?

[ Literally not him. He's had more than enough to deal with where even letting anyone into his life is concerned, let alone something remotely akin to romance. And he's seen the pain it can cause too, the way it has absolutely destroyed his best bud back home.

Nah. That ain't for him.

Rocket jerks a 'thumb' towards the now closed curtains as the audience restlessly awaits the next act. ]

You think you're gonna stick around for the end?

[parce]

All right, all right. Let me think a moment.

( he taps his fingers against his glass. )

Very well, here we go. I have one ridiculously annoying sibling, I have a fear of heights, and I'm a crack shot with a gun.

( he thinks that's pretty good for a first try. )

[beautifullies]

[ His pun gets a good chuckle out of her, and Claire pushes a few stray grays behind her ear. And then she breaks out in a grin so wide it wrinkles her eyes. ]

I was raised by a historian who also happened to be an archaeologist. We lived all over the world; I'd never stayed in one place longer than a year and a few months, not until I was married.

[ That's true of both Jamie and Frank, though with Frank it's been longer; thanks to John, she knows now there are at least ten years more to go with Jamie. It's so odd to be the one having her future told to her, instead of the other way around. Her smile dims a bit, but her tone is still light indicating it doesn't hurt quite so bad as it once did. ]

My first husband taught history at Harvard until he passed; history is something that has deep meaning in our family. So please, talk away, all you'd like.

[familysucks]

[He doesn't have the same appreciation for Gabriel's playful tone. Though Michael's the only one to remember it, they did, as a matter of fact, and he wound up driving an archangel blade right through Lucifer's midsection. Just as foretold.

The magnitude of the conflict was a little oversold. No collateral damage, just two archangels chasing one another around a table over a book, like children playing keep away. The memory is a bitter one.]

Don't go pretending you're interested in my life. You separated yourself from that years ago.

[But, yeah. It's pretty much goats, farming, and more goats. On rare occasions, it's a person crushed into the shape of a goat.]

Life in the commune is quiet, barring the occasional crisis or awakening pagan god. I'm sure you'll find some occupation to entertain yourself with regardless. Childcare, perhaps? I know how much you like responsibility.

[notrunninganymore]

[Aaand of course it couldn't last, and although Michael's words sting a bit, they don't hurt nearly as much as they might have not long ago. It's enough that defensiveness causes a flare of annoyance to rush through him, but not enough that it takes over and causes him to feel more than a brief urge to retreat and avoid the conflict.

Instead, his eyes narrow and he gives Michael an unimpressed look, but doesn't back down.]

You know, I've been giving responsibility another chance lately, but it just keeps reminding me of why I avoided it for so long.

[And he's none too enthused about having been proven right to do so, and even less enthused about the fact that, despite his words, he doesn't have any plans to turn the leaf back over and go back to the entirely self-serving life he'd been leading before. This sucks. No wonder Michael's so stuffy all the time.

But Michael is also his brother, and if the conversation so far is anything to go by, Gabriel has his inklings of what the sudden jabs are actually about. So rather than pushing back further, or arguing Michael's first comment, instead he just holds his hands up in a gesture of surrender that soon turns into a shrug.]

But fine. I get the hint, you're still pissed at me, no surprise. I'll figure something out and stop bothering you, so you can get back to lording over some cows or whatever the hell it is you're doing here.

[catchtheseclaws]

"In my experience," of the one person she's known with pink hair, "people with pink hair are nosy, self-righteous, and short," Catra sniffs, disbelieving.

It does smell better and better the closer they get to the kitchen. Catra had never actually dared go into the kitchen at Bright Moon, half wary they'd chase her out. But she's gained curiosity over time, and Castle Thorne doesn't have reason to hate her (yet), so she'll probably be allowed in?

"Eh. They were both workaholics." Like Catra has room to judge. "They probably didn't even like real food. Or maybe it was a control thing. Or a resource thing. Who knows."

Catra's never put any real thought into food; as long as she gets enough to sustain her and keep her on her feet, she doesn't care. But... Bright Moon's food had been good. She'd really started to enjoy a few things. And as they walk into the kitchen, something smells admittedly amazing, the workers kneading what looks like big loaves of dough while others are in the ovens cooking away.

"Huh. I did wonder how bread was made," Catra muses, sticking close to Adora.

[pepsifree]

Reading the word "thanks" gets the corner of Marty's mouth tugging up, and he offers a thumbs up in lieu of writing something else. It's probably a better time saver, anyway.

It's more important to write: I don't know anything about snakes but I didn't wanna risk it being one of the bad ones
You think there's more of them here?

Having filled his space with writing, Marty switches to a new leaf, filling in a quick message at the top of it.

They might hurt someone else

Especially considering this is a very obvious workspace.

[sketchycharacter]

That it's bullshit. Stuff from sci-fi movies.

[He's seen a few. Not a huge fan, but enjoyed them well enough. When Nate was younger, he liked the monster movies more; he suspects that wouldn't be the case now, after certain experiences he is happy to put behind him.]

Guessing you know something else, or think you do.

[He could possibly be delusional, but hey, who knows.]

[invicto]

[ It is pretty good. While James usually has a knack for reading people, he hasn't really known Nikolai for long enough for this to be more than a guess. So, he'll have to take his chances. ]

I'm going to go with... not afraid of heights.

[sketchycharacter]

[Jesus. She could be describing his mother, and that softens his smile a bit. It doesn't slip away; that's an old pain he's come to terms with. More or less.

But it makes him both think they have more in common than he would have guessed and feel really, really envious of her. It sounds like she had a lot more years with the historian-archaeologist in her life.]

I just might, now that you've opened the door to it.

[She might regret that.]

Another time, maybe? I'm still checking this place out.

also this is retconned to be in nocwich now

[sketchycharacter]

[He can sense it down to his bones.]

Yeah, I'm going to ditch them as soon as I have a better alternative than going naked.

[He's been shot at by private military enough times that being dressed this way kind of gives him gives, but it is what it is, and what it is is a situation where he doesn't want to show his junk to everyone.]

What kinds of creatures? Anything more interesting than swans?

roger roger

[theidlemaiden]

[ Good, that's the basis for the start of a beautiful friendship. ]

We could try and find you something now that the swan problem seems to be temporarily solved. It's the least I can do for saving my crown.

[ She doesn't have to think long about the sorts of creatures that had made their appearances. ]

Someone said there was a big yellow bird that looked a lot like a chicken roaming around the city. I had an octopus fall on my head while I was in the bath - can you believe it? I'd love if these rifts closed and went away. They've cause more trouble than it's worth.

we gotta pretend like Bay didn't see that sword WHOOPS

[youmiscalculated]

When you're raised in an army, I think what feels normal is sort of...not right. But I'm learning! I felt like I was getting the hang of living like a normal person and then boom, here I am starting over with all new things.

[ It's been a lot, but none of it has been bad, either. At least not yet. ]

Do you like it here? Living in the Castle, I mean. I assume no one really wants to be magically kidnapped, so that's a given.

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora loves the cloak, and she might love Hilda; she has never in her life just been given things. Part of her brain can hear Catra warning her off, that no one is this nice. But Adora's choosing to believe that isn't true in this case. Her gut has never been wrong, not about anything. She can't really protect herself right now, but still. She likes Hilda a ton, and she keeps stroking the cloak, grinning like a kid. ]

Oh, Hilda, that's more than okay. In fact, maybe it's too much?

[ But she's still holding onto her arm; she likes having a potential new friend so much, and she knows eventually she'll find a way to make it up to Hilda somehow. ]

What sword???

[wasalmostdaphne]

Well, armies are really intended to teach you to do something people aren't meant to want to do? I dated someone in the army and he had some things he'd never talk about.

[A clear gap in their relationship. Every time she wanted to know what was in Ty's head he'd avoid it. And when he finally shared something, it was so disturbing and terrifying she never wanted anything more than to get him away from that.]

The castle has its advantages, huge kitchen to work in, giant library full of books to study. I don't hate being here but my old life is just nagging on my mind all the time since I can't fix things while I'm here.

[Unfinished business is like an itchy spot you just can't reach. On top of a whole life she was just given, hated, but can't turn back into herself. Still getting used to a body that doesn't feel her's now in a world that wasn't hers either.]

I'm slowly getting over it, and, like you, having to start over from nothing takes its toll. I have to get to know this entirely new me without anyone who could help me answer questions.

Do you have the same taste buds as the taller you? How alike are you two outside of the obvious differences? Sorry, um, personal questions. That's just- it might help me, if you could answer.

[youmiscalculated]

"I think as long as we stay out of the way we can stay. We could—" She abruptly pauses because she'd almost suggested Melog make them invisible, forgetting they aren't here.

"We could sit and watch for a while. There's stuff in the cabinets out of the way we can have. Plus, I dunno...maybe that gives us a chance to talk a little? Or we can just grab and go too, that's okay."

Adora clears her throat, wishing she could will her cheeks not to turn pink.

[glaciare]

( No time at all for him? Well of course, he's not some half-rotted corpse. But so much has changed since then for her and Clive that it seems impossible to relay it all in a timely manner. But Cid should know -- they'll simply have to catch up together.

It is very much like him to put his own death and mortality aside, however, and she gives a slight nod of her head. )

Thorne's generosity knows no bounds. ( Her brow creases: it's clear that she doesn't believe that it is out of the goodness of their hearts. She has spent too long fighting for others to do it again without question. ) I will not deny that their magic lessons are proving to be insightful. But he and I can't help but try and find the other shoe that's no doubt waiting to drop.

( It's not paranoia if they're sure they're right. )

opens arms for

[glaciare]

No. I do not need anything extravagant at all, especially when my coin could be better put to use.

( To help others rather than help herself. She might admire the finer things in life, but there is no true desire nor want for it -- Jill is satisfied with what she has. (That others really wish she'd do something for herself for a change is something Jill isn't particularly aware of, all things considered.) Jill lets her hair fall back when he's done, and he seems too enthusiastic for her to want to dim his enjoyment of the moment. What will it hurt to indulge him just a moment longer?

Though even Jill has to reach out and touch the pendant, distracted by the way the light hits the gems. His words do make her cheeks go pink, however. )

I've always been fond of blue.

[catchtheseclaws]

Catra's in the middle of digging through something that's advertised as a bargain bin when Gabriel comes up with the coolest idea ever. Catra's entire body perks up.

"That would be so cool," she breathes, eyes shining in awe. "I want a jacket studded with vampire fangs. I want a matching choker studded with vampire fangs."

If it would have to involve ripping a vampire's fangs out, that's easy. She'd just need to find a whole bunch of vampires who deserve to get their fangs ripped out! Like the ones that kill innocent people!

"I'll have to investigate some vampires," she says, very seriously, squinting thoughtfully. "If I follow one around for long enough I should be able to figure out if their fangs just fall out sometimes."

[pepsifree]

[ Oh, he's doubtful. Which, while being a perfectly rational explanation, is also kind of a relief. Marty already knows he isn't going to enjoy being thought of as a crazy person, but maybe Doc won't be so mad he blabbed if the guy didn't believe him. ]

Yeah, [ he smiles sheepishly ] I know some stuff.

I know that I stepped into a time machine before I showed up here. [ A definitive nod. ] And I know that just 'cause you go backwards or forwards in time, doesn't mean you also move in space.

I was in California when the time machine left. [ One hand lifts, scratching the side of his head. ] But none of the places I've been to here really look like California. So whatever part of the timeline we're in, either this is a crazy ancient time, or...

Or I'm somewhere else instead of somewhen else. Which-- I don't know how I'd even get somewhere else, y'know? Especially somewhere with magic that could bunnify a guy.

[ Marty thinks back to all he's said and wonders if this is what Doc feels like whenever he explains anything time-related to him. But then again, Doc's oodles smarter than he is, and probably never feels like a moron the way Marty does now. ]

[catchtheseclaws]

In a way that it never does with anybody else, Catra's expression softens, and she tugs Adora over to a low bench tucked out of the way from the workers, but in a place that still gives them a good view. She sits, and when Adora does too, Catra's tail idly curls around Adora's waist.

This is nice. It's a chance to breathe, and be quiet for a bit, and just be with Adora and get used to the fact that they're in another world. That's... going to take some getting used to, admittedly.

"Let's stay for a bit," she says lowly, leaning in to press her cheek to Adora's shoulder. "I missed you. Even though it was only a few days that I didn't see you. But I missed you a lot."

Just the thought of being here alone is enough to give her nightmares.

"I'm really glad you're here with me, Adora."

[godshattering]

This last one we were strongly encouraged, [ said with a tone in which it's clear this wasn't so much an encouragement, ] to attend so as to not offend our hosts. The one before that was entirely mandatory. But there aren't that many Summoned here, Linhardt. There's new faces now and then, yes, but not so many that it'd be impossible to know them all when it comes to being able to tell if we were all gathered in one place.

[ And being here in Nocwich, such as they are now, means a chance to meet those new faces in the months in between when those 'encouraged' events had happened. Otherwise, they might've not been aware of each other until crossing paths in the Horizon. Or - more accurately, until Linhardt found Garreg Mach, noticeable as it is, and wandered in. ]

I don't think we have the luxury of being left out. Does Thorne give you the same spiel about being important and that they're glad you're here? I hear Solvunn reveres their Summoned as some kind of blessings from their gods. And make no mistake, the Free Cities considers us weapons.

[ That's their value to them, Claude's certain, and it's unfortunately familiar in so many ways. There's so many variables to exactly how much freedom they have which he constantly keeps an eye out for; in some ways it'd almost be easier to live under Thorne's restrictions since those, at least, are defined. But there's saying that and then living the reality of it, and he knows himself too well to know he couldn't stand it.

At the mention of someone else they know, however, there's the slightest rueful smile from Claude. ]

So your professor was also 'she' from the sound of it. Perhaps you're from Petra's time where the Teach you know sided with Edelgard rather than him being on my side.

[ A thought painful because Petra's no longer here, and because once again: not his Teach. Claude's honestly not sure if that makes it better or worse when it comes to these discussions anymore, but it's simple enough to change tracks once more back to lightness. ]

I'm sure Teach would appreciate your grading all the same, though, since he used to write me some pretty terse notes on work I'd handed in if you feel like channeling that. Most of what I've worked with others on here is healing magic, though, and interestingly it's able to transfer even without... well, anything from Fodlan being here but us.

[flagrates]

[ If his expression is any indication, he doesn't like that answer, either. Using people as tools, drafting them into the military. He's not heard of anything of the like in Thorne, but the way leadership there gives and gives without seemingly asking anything in return..

It's all a little too familiar. ]

So not yet a war, then, but soon to be one.

[ Governments. They're all the same, no matter what trappings they dressed themselves in, and Clive even knows his own family was no different, even with his father's noble cause in mind. If each faction vyes for power, then inevitably that friction will spill over, and then what? ]

And so you think they mean to use to fight.

[flagrates]

[ It's possible his mother, rotting where she lay, can hear his snort at Cid's comment, smirking a little. ]

Utterly trustworthy then, [ he says in return. ]

Good to know.