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

Captain Jack Harkness | Torchwood/Doctor Who | Free Cities | Hanged Man

[51stcentury]

[All thing considered, Jack has had worse experiences. Death, for instance. Whatever void he had been pulled from had been a bit like that, and yet -- not at all. Every time he had been pulled from death, it had felt like his very soul was dragged over broken glass. And now...

It's not the first time he's found himself waking up naked, uncertain of where he is or how he got there. It's not even that much of an uncommon phenomenon, all things considered. But the fact that he has been based on planet Earth for so long, and the certainty that he isn't there now is -- troubling, to say the least.]

ARRIVAL - CADENS
[It isn't all that much of a hardship to accept the wagon ride into the city. The desert is uncomfortably hot and dry and after having spent the better part of the last century in Cardiff, Jack is experiencing something of a climate shock.

Stepping off the wagon and being handed a uniform is Something Else as well.

Jack lets out a burst of laughter, feeling a wave of nausea run through him as he brushes his fingers over the patch of the Hanged Man stitched into it.]

Why can't I help but feel as though this is something of a demotion?

TRAINING GROUNDS
[Making his way around the city, inevitably Jack finds his way down at the training grounds. It feels somewhat inevitable. Almost as though it is the design of the city, which makes Jack uncomfortable in the way that he knows must mean that he is right. He'd been in the service, after all. Several services. He isn't particularly looking to enlist in another.

He doesn't think he's going to have much of a choice, when it comes down to it.

Standing to the side of the sparring ring, Jack is watching the latest match, arms crossed across his chest and eyes wandering perhaps a little more than they should.

Hey, what can he say? If he's gotta participate, he might as well enjoy himself.]

Nice form.

NOCWICH
[Portal travel to Nocwich reminds Jack of traveling with the vortex manipulator, which makes him rub his wrist, missing its absence. Like leaving the house without your wristwatch, he feels almost naked without it.

Jack isn't certain what to expect of Nochwich, and is pleasantly surprised to find it much more relaxed than the more military "Free" Cities. Still dressed in his uniform with the Hanged Man patch sewn into it, he walks the stalls with his hands in his pockets, poking and prodding through the wares and trying to remember how the currency works in this land.]

What do you think? [Jack plucks a wide-brimmed hat with a brightly plumed feather off a nearby stand and sticks it on his head.] Is it me?

WILDCARD
[ooc: feel free to PM me if you would like to play out something else other than the above prompts! let's plot something out together!!]

Nocwich

[earthborn]

Shepard likes the bars in Nocwich better. Don't get her wrong, the military aires are plenty her style, but lately there's an odd desperation to the Cadens scene; it's good, to get a change of air, and to occasionally wear something that didn't come pre-sized from the quartermaster at least five inches too big.

Always with the tall people and their broad shoulders. No matter the universe.

Speaking of which, there's more to Nocwich than booze and atmosphere, of a leave; shopping is always a draw. And here, unlike the Free Cities, a man in uniform sticks out— she catches the patch on his shoulder as he turns. Summoned: that explains it.

"Depends," Shepard says, glancing briefly back at the hoods she'd been looking at, wondering what it'd cost to have them modified, "You got somewhere to wear it, new guy?"

[51stcentury]

Jack can't help the wide smile that breaks out across his face at that reply.

"New guy, huh?" he asks, adjusting the hat on his head slightly to add something of a tilt to it. "I would ask how you knew, but then again -- I suppose I am literally wearing it on my sleeve for all to see."

He offers her a wink.

[earthborn]

"Yeah, can't help but notice. Cadens has a way of marking you out," Shepard chuckles, dutifully nodding to the now-rakish tilt of the outrageous hat in question. It's not really doing much for him, but that's not the point.

It's to get you talking, of course; and flirting with people is a perfectly valid way of getting yourself acclimatized— of gathering information. Wink received, sir, loud and clear.

"So... Do you got a name, or is New Guy a traditional one in your family?"

[51stcentury]

No, that's not really the point of it.

Jack lets out a burst of a laugh, plucking the frankly terrible hat off of his head and setting it back on the stand beside him.

"Technically, it's Captain New Guy, though as you can see, Free Cities wasn't very impressed with my stripes," he explains, with a mirthful twinkle, before wrinkling his nose and sticking his hands in his uniform pockets with a shrug.

"Captain Jack Harkness," he offers. "And you are?"

[earthborn]

Captain, was it? She's already smiling, but Shepard's polite expression visibly warms at the moniker. She likes a shared framework, and nobody gets a title like that without a some kind of command, and with any luck it'll be a ship. There's little enough else everyone here has in common, after all.

"Commander Shepard," She says, offering him her own hand to shake, just as casually, "And I feel your pain; nobody respects the Star of Terra on Abraxas, and Spectre status might as well be a joke."

Nocwich || Unable to Resist. Literally.

[thelasttimelord]

(Assumed already having found each other by then? Or can be changed to not, too!)

---

[ When The Doctor looks over at the question there is the twitch of a eyebrow. Almost imperceptibly. Nye, on impossible to tell if there's amusement or annoyance or maybe some combination of both. Exacerbation, even full in the flavor of the comfort of one familiar, sane–semi-sane–face being in the middle of this situation. Newly insane temporally relocated paradoxical situations. Always better with two.

Most of the time. Even if looking at Jack, the unmistakable permanence of him still ... itches.

(The hat isn't even terrible. Horribly clashes with the rest of him. But it's not. Terrible. Honestly, the fact that Jack can still act like Jack, with that big smile and his utterly over-the-top need for nonsense, really lends the hat two more notes of credence even. One thing right in all that isn't.) ]

You could take this a bit more seriously.

[51stcentury]

(ooc: found each other already perfectly fine by me!! c:)

[It is good to have the Doctor here with him. A familiar face. Perhaps something less of a comfort, all things considered. He'd never been particularly comforting, as far as Jack's experience had been concerned. But he knows that the he won't have to worry about the Doctor, in the way that he might have to do if he had found himself face-to-face with a member of his team in this place. That the Doctor is hardy, in a way that Jack himself is too. The pair of them will find their way, and it's easier to do so together.

The Timelord could stand to be nicer about it, though.

Jack lets out a scoffing noise in response to the Doctor's chiding, turning back to the stand in front of him.]

Have you spent time in a climate like the deserts of the Free Cities, Doctor? Sunburn is not a good look.

[For all he knows, Timelords are probably excempt, at that. Figures.]

[thelasttimelord]

And the desert requires that much extravagance.

[ On anyone else in time and space, that would have been a question. On The Doctor, it's a snarky rebut with a period. There is no way that the desert does; same as there is no world in which Jack Harkness isn't trying to get all the attention of anyone near him with bright, boisterousness that nearly always becomes flirting within about five sentences at most.

Maybe he is feeling a little captured-cantankerous, and maybe he's willing to be that here, with Jack, in a way he would rarely be without great cause at some innocent bystander. (No one, who is not the TARDIS, is allowed to up and abscond with his person to places unknown. Especially not long term, and without the Tardis herself present as well.)

It's not even that he's not enchanted with this place—the combination of werewolf, vampire, and, apparently, newly returned Fey populaces—. Still, it takes so little prodding to hear about the undercurrent of a massive willing-to-consider genocidal silent war going on and the at most second-citizen treatment of those teleported here from their universes and times. ]

You couldn't choose something, say, less flamboyant for the sand and sun.

[51stcentury]

[Jack tips his hat forward at what some might say a debonair angle, and others might simply call frankly ridiculous.]

I could, but where would be the fun in that when this one goes so well with my eyes.

[He holds the Doctor's gaze for a moment longer, offering him a wink before giving in and turning back to the stand in front of him, digging through the rest of its selection in search of, in all honesty, something perhaps a bit more practical.

Jack isn't clueless. He can tell that the Doctor is, for lack of a better word, on edge. Hell, he can't particularly blame him. Jack isn't a Timelord and even he has issues with finding himself in this particular situation. Jack has always had a talent for making the best of the situations he finds himself in, and a tendency to turn to humor as a means of coping. Surviving.]

Your face is gonna get stuck like that if you're not careful.

[Frowning. He can feel the frown on the Doctor's face, without even having to see it. Removing his ridiculous hat at last, he turns back to the Doctor, raising his eyebrows in question. What is it? And don't tell him it's the hat.]

TRAINING GROUNDS

[catholica]

I was wondering if you were ever going to say anything.

( because yes, he'd felt eyes on him. he hadn't stopped the fight, of course, since he hadn't wanted to get decked but he'd wondered if the man would say something or if he'd just watch.

when the fight ends and the man speaks up, matt smirks a little and steps out of the ring, reaching for a towel to dry the sweat. he turns in the direction of the voice, eyes not quite focusing and shrugs. )

Practice makes perfect.

[51stcentury]

[Jack isn't even going to pretend that he wasn't admiring the view, so to speak, when that had been exactly what he'd been doing. So instead he offers the other man a wide, bright smile, moving to spread his arms in a gesture of, You got me!]

Would you believe me if I told you I was sizing up the competition?

[Believable people usually don't have to ask questions like that.]

[catholica]

Depends.

( there's amusement in his voice as he puts the towel down and reaches for the dark glasses that he'd taken off when he'd started the training. he slides them back on his face and stretches his arms above his head. )

Is that the truth?

( he doesn't think it is. )

[51stcentury]

[Ahh, the dark glasses explain the way that the man's eyes hadn't quite focused on him as they'd spoken. It's bright outside here in the desert, and Jack is a sunglasses man himself, but somehow he doesn't think that's what they're for.

Jack makes a thoughtful noise as if honestly considering the question, before letting out the huff of a laugh, and trying:]

Admiring the view?

[catholica]

As much as I can.

( which, unfortunately, wasn't much when it came to his eyes but he could enjoy the voice and the scent. he takes a few steps closer to jack, stopping to stand in front of him. )

I don't recognize you.

( the heartbeat was different than any other one that he'd heard before. must be a new group of people showing up. )

[51stcentury]

[Jack has made a lot of friends with a lot of different sorts of folks. Some of whom were blind, some of whom saw the world in different sorts of ways. So he doesn't think twice at the comment, smiling broadly instead, rocking back and forth on his heels.]

Nah, you wouldn't. I've just arrived a few days ago. Brand spankin' new.

[He chuckles at his own humor which is, as it should be observed, terrible.]

It's been a long time since I've been new anywhere.

[A very long time.]

Training Grounds

[everybodylives]

(ooc: They have a history according to Vol 3 of the Captain Jack audio stories - R&J but I’m also more than fine having her not know him.)

[She had never had any desire to join the service. The closest she’d gotten was helping Octavian and she’d done that in the hopes of a pardon. Or at least a day out, a chance to see the Doctor and a squadron of clerics and their leader to seduce. But here she was.]

It wasn’t my form you were looking at.

[Her tone was teasing and he got a slow, appreciative appraisal in return, eyes lingering occasionally.]

At least you do the outfit justice.

[51stcentury]

(ooc: I'm happy to have them have a history of having run into each other Through Time like that audio! I've heard it and its so very Timey Wimey, very fun to have this be just another one of their many times bumping into each other)

[Jack lets out a wide smile, not bothering to stop himself from admiring her in her uniform as she turns to give him the full view, before spreading his hands before him in a gesture as if to say, "Hey, you got me!"]

I've been told it's the jawline and the cheekbones. And the hair.

[His grin widens.] Guess I'm the whole package deal.

[everybodylives]

[She chuckled huskily, stepping toward him and earning a sharp glare from one of the trainers. So far they hadn’t tried teaching her anything she didn’t already know.]

I have to admit, my admiration was focused a bit… lower.

[Had he seen how he filled out a pair of trousers?]

I didn’t expect to find a familiar face today, but I’m glad to see you.

[51stcentury]

[Jack lets out a bright burst of laughter at that admission. Oh, there is a reason that he likes her. Yes, please stroke his ego further, please.]

I'm certainly not going to protest company that gives me compliments like that.

[His grin sobers slightly. They've been through a lot together, but it's not exactly been a relationship of sharing. Of course, that has a lot to do with Jack's previous occupation as a Time Agent, and River's... Well. Whatever she is and whatever she's been doing with herself all this time. Running, although to or from something Jack can't exactly say for certain.]

You've got me. Not that I don't appreciate the uniform, but this is definitely much more my scene than yours. Not that, I assume, you've had much more of a choice than I did...?

[He raises an eyebrow. She didn't, did she?]

[everybodylives]

[If it would help, she isn't entirely sure if she is running to or from something either - but she does know that the something is herself.]

No more choice than I usually have. And I don't mind the surrounds so much, reminds me of home a bit.

[Was it sad that she considered Stormcage home? Albeit a home you only visited between trips. Probably. But she's not going to think about it too deeply and she's not going back - she's been pardoned. She rolled her eyes inwardly at the Doctor because only he could make himself disappear from all the records in multiple galaxies.]

So many little soldiers to corrupt, so little time.

Nocwich!

[beautifullies]

[ Claire's trying to find enough fabric to make a tarp for the bee houses—winter is still a bit off, but it's always better to be prepared. There's no reason it can't look nice either, and so she's taking her time. when she's addressed, though, she raises an eyebrow and gives a little cough. ]

That depends. Is your occupation pimp? Because if so, you've absolutely nailed it.

[ There's amusement in her eyes, and she nods toward a stall cattycorner to the one they're both standing near. ]

All you need now is a cane, and I say you'll be set.

[51stcentury]

[Jack lets out a bright burst of a laugh at that -- there are so few people that feel comfortable being so directly honest with him to his face, this woman's mannerisms are a burst of fresh air. He follows her gaze toward the canes she points out with a delighted grin.]

Oh, I like you.

[He glances back toward her with a twinkle in his eye.] Too bad bell-bottoms are probably against regulation uniform, might have really completed the look.

[beautifullies]

[ His reaction makes her laugh as well; not everyone can roll with a quip like that, and he has, beautifully. ]

On first glance, I didn't take you for a partial Flower Child, but then, what is one supposed look like, I suppose?

[ Claire smiles and its warm as she sets down the fabric she was browsing through. ]

Have you had the delights of walking through the market place before, or is this your first time?

training grounds

[pacificator]

[ He could mean it the way Dolls does... did... where he actually gave a shit about her shoulders being down and relaxed and her hips squared. He might.

But Dolls' gaze never lingered quite that long on her ass, when she bends to offer a hand up to the soldier she's thrown to the ground. ]

Wow. Never heard that one before. Gonna ask me what I do for a living, next?

[ She heads to the edge of the ring, sweating freely, tendrils of hair sticking to her temples, and searches for some water as she tosses her words at him. ]

You know, aside from taking your breath away?