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

[wasalmostdaphne]

[That's a look of wide eye'd horror as Bay clears the kitchen space in record time and yanks back the jar.]

Oh no. If you want to sleep anytime in the next week that's a terrible idea.

[Bay will just put that away and hunt through the cupboard she knows has some of today's baked goods. A little dry this late in the day but they're a bit too early for the mornings creations. She can talk while not looking at Adora, even if the reverse isn't true.]

You also don't just- eat them. They're to be ground up and made into something like tea. If tea were made of pure energy.

[Bay resurfaces from her exploring with a cobbler, made with a dark fruit or berry. She thinks they smell kind of like raspberries but she knows they taste a little different. About three or four servings of it left. She will hand the plate to Adora so Bay can return to the tea.]

Score. Let's try this instead, okay?

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora's eyes widen, and then she files all of that away for later. Tea of pure energy? That sounds promising. While Bay's still looking at her, Adora smiles sheepishly and rubs the back of her head with one hand. ]

We don't have anything like that on my planet. Oops. This looks good though, I'll take this.

[ When Bay goes back to the tea, even if she's talking, Adora sniffs the cobbler and then takes a tentative bite. Manners around food have never really been a thing, but Glimmer has been...patiently trying to teach her. The Horde had two flavors of the same energy efficient protein, and it's all she ever ate. Real food that has sugar and seasonings and tastes good still tends to get shoveled into her mouth.

Which means when Bay turns again, it's just in time to see Adora take a bite so huge her cheeks bulge. Nothing spills out at least, but she won't be talking soon. ]

[wasalmostdaphne]

I will brew you some in the morning, a small cup.

[So on the one hand, Bay is pretty sure if this woman isn't older than her, that eight foot tall woman who definitely won't awaken anything inside her, is. But on the other hand Bay feels very much like she's babysitting.]

[Which became more obvious when she came over to offer Adora her tea and she was now a chipmunk. Bay left her own slice and her tea over with the kettle because she lacks three hands and was just going to go back. She sets down the cup next to Adora.]

Are you twelve?

[And the worst part is this girl can randomly be an amazon woman with a sword! Why!?]

[youmiscalculated]

[ The question causes a little bit of color to rise to Adora's cheeks, and she manages to swallow. First she thanks Bay for the tea, then she tries to answer the question by sitting up a little taller. ]

I'm not twelve! Just hungry. I turned twenty not that long ago. I guess I'm just curious? There's so much here I've never seen before. Except for Hayle, weirdly, that feels just like home. Sort of. It's missing my friends.

[ A question for a question then: ]

How old are you?

[ This time when Adora takes a bite it's purposefully small and tentative. ]

[wasalmostdaphne]

[Bay keeps an eye on Adora as she goes to get her own tea and cobbler. That doesn't add up. Looking at her it does, she's obviously not twelve, they're near in age but she'd put the other girl a little behind her just on the way she reacted to the dark. And decided to consume as much baked treat as she could fit in her mouth at once.]

Eighteen.

[Bay's taste is small and purposeful, savoring all the little notes in the flavor that she'd otherwise miss if she weren't so- unique. She's even got an idea which of the kitchen staff she should thank for this, even if she isn't sure. Her initial annoyance has quickly softened into compassion. She can't really judge Adora too harshly for her lack of graces, being brought here is a lot.]

Nowhere in the Kingdom is like home for me. And that's before adding in that my sister isn't here. It helps to take things slow when getting used to this place though, to be mindful of your surroundings.

And to not try to inhale entire desserts.

[Compassion but also please Adora, please have some chill.]

[youmiscalculated]

[ Again, she looks sheepish, but this time she’s smiling. She likes Bay, she’s been nice and definitely didn’t have to help with the tea. Making sure they can see one another, Adora explains a little. ]

My friend Glimmer is helping me with ‘social graces.’ Apparently, princesses aren’t supposed to inhale food. But c’mon, it has flavors! My only choices my entire life were between brown or gray ration bars. I had no idea there were so many different kinds food.

[ She tries to pull apart what’s left of the cobbler to examine it. ]

This is a dessert right? See, before, if someone said ‘dessert’ I thought that was it. Just…dessert. I didn’t know there were different kinds.

[ Adora circles back to what Bay said. ]

What’s home like for you?

[wasalmostdaphne]

[Bay's expression shifts to confused at first, and into a deep sadness as the words 'click' in their meaning. And the ramifications of them in a greater shape. 'Ration bar' isn't a concept Bay can visualize, but the notation of not having flavor carries a heavy weight all its own. Bay's pretty sure she'll be in this kitchen making all sorts of things for the foreseeable future giving Adora new things to try.]

Specifically this is a cobbler, it has to do with how the crust on top looks. But yes, it's a kind of dessert.

[Bay takes advantage of having something to eat, and that she's not expected to talk with her hands, to figure out how best to answer. It's mostly a lot of feelings looped around a lot of details. But the 'boring' parts might be very foreign and interesting to someone like Adora.]

I live with my mom and dad. Then there's a guest house, where my sister and her mother live. It's a lot of space we can spread out and spend time on our own if we want. My sister and I still go to school, learning the basic things we need to know to go to more school then find a job. My sister's trying to become a doctor, I'm trying to turn art into a career my dad won't just attack every time he talks to me.

[Bay catches her frustration at a regular occurrence at home and how maybe that isn't a very helpful thing. She'll take a moment to sip her tea.]

It's- home, no magic. No being dragged out of fountains naked. Just a lot of work to figure out where you belong.

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora listens, and while she understands the mechanics of how Bay lives, she's never actually experienced a real family before. She's got Bow and Glimmer, and she had Angella for a really, really short time. But a sister? School and getting to be anything other than a horde soldier or a savior? Can't relate. But she does genuinely feel for Bay, and wants to understand. ]

That all sounds...wow. Just...a lot. Parents can be tough; I could never really make the person who raised me proud. I tried, though, a lot. Like, a lot.

[ There's still a lot about Shadow Weaver Adora's trying to process, but she doesn't have time to face those feelings yet. ]

Will you tell me more about your art?

[ Taking a sip of the tea, she realizes it tastes a lot like one of the teas at home, which makes it one of the most comforting things she's experienced so far. ]

[wasalmostdaphne]

All four of my parents mean well, dad is just the only one who seems to believe what I want isn't going to support me. And it kind of comes down to money.

[Her father the professional baseball player who never went to college, disagrees with a path of art. Because they don't put artists on cereal boxes or in underwear ads.]

I mostly paint, I do a lot of sketches to keep in practice. And because carrying paints everywhere isn't practical. I spend a lot of time in the gardens finding things, but I often sit in my room and draw things from home.

[Also a good skill to have if bored nobles love owning images of worlds they'll never see themselves. In case you want some gold.]

So you've talked about your friend, Glimmer? Teaching you how to be more normal with food? And growing up with some gross sounding meals. What- exactly went on to end up like that?

[youmiscalculated]

[ Four whole parents. Wow, what's THAT like? ]

I wish I could draw, but that is a skill I definitely do not have. I think that sounds like an amazing career, doing exactly what you want.

[ Adora's always supportive when she can be, and this sounds like it makes Bay happy. The answer to her questions both feel like a lot, so she tries to condense it down. ]

I was raised in an army, so they only fed us what kept us alive. But I grew up like that, so I never knew that was wrong. I didn't know the Horde army was wrong about everything, that they were destroying the planet. They told us we were saving it from evil.

[ Except they were the evil and she makes a look of sheer contempt at the thought of it, but that's all over now, and she lets out a soft breath. ]

I defected, and that's how I figured it out. I met Glimmer and her friend Bow, and they made me see it. Then I found that sword you saw and I saved people. I couldn't go back after that, so I didn't.

[wasalmostdaphne]

[C o m p l i c a t e d.]

I still had at least two more years of school, possibly four. If I got into art school.

[She was working toward her future, but it wasn't like she had it in her hands yet. It was there, waiting for her. And it'll wait until she's back from this, and if she goes home herself or who she currently is.]

Oh.

[A lot of weight carried in something that barely qualifies as a word. Bay shifted forward to put her hand on Adora's. The lie Bay grew up with wasn't bad, it was just not the truth. And the result of it was better than what she'd be without it. To have a lie that big, and that cruel. How else can you respond but compassion and maybe a little fury, but given the Horde army wasn't here for her to be mad at. She will focus on Adora.]

You don't seem like a bad person. I just mean I don't think it's the sword that stopped you from going back. Once you know something is a lie, it's hard to forget it and just pretend.

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora has so many questions about Bay's life because honestly? It sounds unimaginable but amazing at the same time. But the conversation has shifted uncomfortably to Adora and she clears her throat, rubbing the back of her neck. ]

Sword or not, there wasn't any going back, you're right. Then it turned out I had a destiny from the moment I was born, blah, blah, blah, She-Ra saves the Universe.

[ She's made that sound impossibly blasé, but it's also so deeply awful that it would require so much explaining and Adora doesn't want to overwhelm Bay with too much. ]

[wasalmostdaphne]

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

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

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

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

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.

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]

[ No one's really ever been this interested in Adora's life other than Catra, and she already knows everything about her. ]

She-Ra is still me, just magic, and I can't use that at all unless I transform. She-Ra is a legend on my planet; no one knew she existed, and then I happened to be the first one born in a thousand years. Amazing for me, right? Born to be a Savior.

[ She doesn't sound amazed. She might have if this was before she realized Light Hope had been corrupted, but not now, after being controlled. ]

Anyway, She-Ra is me, I am her, and we both hate vegetables.

[wasalmostdaphne]

[Hide the flavor vegetables in other dishes, got it.]

Oh. It's just such a significant physcial change, I thought it might have other oddities to it.

[There's a slight... Disappointment to it, like this wasn't the answer she wanted. Which is altogether strange, given how weird a question it was.]

Being the first one in a thousand years sounds more like it'd be difficult than it would be amazing. Nothing to go on for how to do things. Only the rules you stumble into as you go.

[Bay's experience, of course, was nothing like Adora's. And she knew it, but at the same time if she was in Adora's shoes, turning eight feet tall sounds cool, but that seems to have a lot of fine print.]

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora's head tilts to the side, ponytail swaying with the movement. ]

Like what?

[ Adora fiddles with her fork. ]

And yeah, it was hard. That was before I found out I was a weapon. My life is complicated, and it's only just now starting to get a little better.

[wasalmostdaphne]

[Bay huffs a breath and then thinks of how to delicately explain.]

I get magic can just- do things. But to become that much larger your center of gravity changes, meaning your body has to adjust to that. Is it your body made larger, or a new body just vaguely like yours. Do you have the same scars and birthmarks, how does it effect your nerve endings. Your heart has to be stronger to handle the extra distance.

Just- I've been dealing with a body that's not quite mine, I wanted to know if yours did the same thing.

[Selfish? Yes, a little. But there was all sorts of confusing there that Bay just kind of wanted to unravel. Which was just more selfishness. She settled in to eat more cobbler.]

Well, at the very least, even if your life isn't any less complicated. There is now tasty dessert offerings to make it easier at the end of the day.

[youmiscalculated]

Honestly? I never stopped to think about it. Most of the time when I transform, it isn't for fun, something bad is happening or about to happen. She-Ra is able to handle magic transforming her because it's how the magic was made I guess? I'm not the first She-Ra, but hopefully, I'll be the last. I was chosen when I was born, but my people are all gone now. When I die one day, so will She-Ra.

[ It's a Buffy situation. Unless there's another intergalactic takeover, in which case she hopes she's too old and can be a wise mentor instead. She doesn't want to fight any more wars. What Bay says though, it doesn't seem like quite the same thing. ]

What do you mean about a body that isn't quite yours?

[wasalmostdaphne]

That's a lot of pressure to have on you.

[Again, sounded like Adora never really got to- just exist. It was all one disaster after another. Which makes sense with that level of weight on her. Maybe a good idea to find ways to let her take a load off and relax.]

Oh, it's a long story. My sister and I woke up one day having lived each other's lives? All my memories are intact, but my body lived through an entire different life. I was just wondering if being She-Ra felt like I do. In a body that isn't quite right.

[Bay omitted so much of how that story works but honestly the details felt a little silly given what Adora's life seemed to be. Bay just had to deal with different scars, different senses, and taste buds used to entirely different foods.]