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ABRAXAS MODS ([personal profile] abraxasmods) wrote in [community profile] abraxasooc2023-11-20 12:36 pm
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TEST DRIVE MEME #15

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 December.

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.

Kingdom of Thorne | The Free Cities | Solvunn Commune
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 winter, the weather is frosty. In the distance, you can see tall white mountain peaks and winter flowers are dusted in snow around the gardens. 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. Some curiosity is in the air when locals discuss the recent negotiations with the Nether, the confirmation of dragons, and the Maritime Fair in Borrel, newly established last month. The ceremony in November included the promotion of the Queen's uncle, Admiral Rudolph Sidwell.

  • Although the Dimming is a few weeks away, the Castle's head chef has started to serve winter-themed pastries and warm-spiced teas in the dining hall.
◎ Exploring
Despite the troubles that plague the land, Castle Thorne and its surrounding city have much for you to indulge in.
Fireside Logs
In preparation for the colder weather, and to appease the working class, enchanted logs are to be delivered around Nott. These logs are bespelled to last several weeks longer than a typical log. Help stack the logs onto horse-drawn wagons or make the deliveries yourself. Nott can be a little rough with pickpockets and thieves, and many aren't fond of the monarchy, so it's best to travel with a friend. While you're there, why not have a drink at the taverns or visit the fish market? Just be sure to return by dark or else a guard may be sent to fetch you home. Thorne wouldn't want you to be in any danger!

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 warming spell that can chase away the chill for about an hour or so. 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.

Seaside Scenery
You're encouraged to explore Thorne's proud naval history in Borrel at its Maritime Fair, which had its first opening last month. Along with its many attractions and ships, you can join a paint and cider session where you can follow a guided instructor to paint the Borrel seascape. To finish your masterpiece, you can decorate the frame with Borrel's famous sea glass. The paints and brushes are enchanted to help you along, but it requires a little concentration. Growing frustrated with your progress might cause some splatters or turn the colors muddy. Not to worry! You can always start again with a fresh canvas.

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 nation's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other nations, 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).

As an important figure to the kingdom, you can't move out of the city of Castle Thorne without permission or take any extended trips. If you're feeling restless, though, daytrips to Nott or Borrel via portal are allowed, or you can visit Nocwich. Don't try to sneak out - someone will bring you back. 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.

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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. The climate is hot and dry, though not as hot as it was in summer. At night, temperatures drop dramatically. 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:
  • In the Cadens barracks, soldiers exchange stories about invisible hounds and mutant beasts that attacked - though some tales are exaggerated. City guards are present around an inn and tavern at the heart of Cadens - The Sarstina - where the Summoned like you are often found. They're here for your protection, not to prevent you from moving freely.

  • A buzz is in the air when locals discuss the recent negotiations with the Nether, the confirmation of dragons, and the public execution of Cauldor Wain, accused of orchestrating the attacks in Nocwich two years ago. If you step outside the gates of Cadens, you'll see a decomposing corpse hanging there as a warning.

  • Although the Festival of Enlightenment is a few weeks away, shops and markets have started to sell mechanical toys, clothes, and light-up jewelry in preparation for all the coming celebrations and parties.
◎ 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.

Save An Orphan
Eager to take advantage of the upcoming holiday cheer, orphans will corner passersby to try and sell small handmade trinkets, jewelry, and a cup of hot cocoa or warm pastries. They'll be grateful if you buy a little something! Wilier orphans might try to distract you and quickly tie a bracelet around your wrist, then demand compensation for your "purchase." But hey, it's hard to be too upset with hungry children, right? If you don't have any food or money on you, maybe you can find an older Summoned to help you out.

Loose Balls
In the holiday bustle, one of the delivery wagons has overturned, scattering colorful round ornaments all over the street. Distraught merchant Jilliane Tuttle is desperate to gather up her wares and will beg anyone she sees for help. Why not lend the poor lady a hand? Be careful, though! The orbs are designed to light up, and the damage might cause some of them to give a light shock when picked up. Try to bring as many of the ornaments back to Jilliane as you can. She'll reward you with a few silver coins for your help.

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 nation's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other nations, 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'll eventually have to strike out on your own. The government won't provide for you 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, but you will want to start making money. Nearly everything in the Free Cities has a price - including the portal to Aquila. Luckily, the portal to Libertas is free if you want to stretch your legs.

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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 chilly and the temperatures are cold. Sleet and hail grow more frequent. 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 chestnuts, baked apples, candied orange peels, and other wintery treats. 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!

  • The execution of former Council member Josselyn Creed is no longer a topic. Instead, a sense of awe is in the air when locals discuss the recent negotiations with the Nether, the confirmation of a long-lost dragon shrine, and the formally secured seat of Council member Isar Hart, the first Tertiary representative who does not come from the Tertiary Settlement.

  • Although the Winter Solstice is a few weeks away, friendly neighbors have started to deliver hot cider and warm knitted socks or scarves to everyone around the commune.
◎ Exploring
Despite the troubles that plague the commune, the commune and its settlements have much for you to indulge in.
Helping Hands
Due to the cold winds, Solvunn fine goat racing tradition is put on hold so the goats can be kept warm inside their pens. Skilled weavers have made blankets for the goats, which you can deliver to any home that has a goat or two. It sounds easy enough except while you're there, you might be roped into helping with a household chore or running an errand, from sweeping the floors, bringing a bit of tea to the family across the road (you're headed that direction, anyway, aren't you?), or picking something up from the market (it'll be quick, dear!). Before you know it, you find yourself juggling several tasks. Obviously, the solution is to pass the work onto someone else - maybe another Summoned you spot?

Wailing Wilma
Bored of the holiday cheer, youths in the Primary Settlement have started to sneak off to find Wailing Wilma. According to the tale, Wilma's sister drowned her in the icy waters as a sacrifice. When summoned, Wilma's ghostly face appears just beneath the ice, mouth open in an eternal wail. The "summoning" requires taking an elaborate path through the forest to reach the lake - though the instructions frequently change. Of course, between stepping onto the ice and wandering through the woods at night, the children are asking for trouble. Maybe you hear some screaming as the youths frighten themselves or a frantic mother asks you to find her son before dark. You should take a friend if you plan to investigate - the woods can be dangerous after sundown.

Red Herring
Each winter, cured fish are prepared in glass jars decorated with holly and delivered as-ordered to residents in the commune, a task organized by Fin McGill, whose parents evidently believed he would follow in their fishing footsteps. These small fish take on a rusty hue when salted and smoked. Unfortunately, his careless son (Finnie Jr.) has once again mixed up the batches of fish this year: the jars of herring have been mislabeled as mackerel and vice versa. A frantic Fin is asking anyone available to help correct the mistake before the wagon comes to collect his goods. You can swap the labels and move the jars to the right crates to make sure everything reaches its proper destination.

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 nation's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other nations, 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.

Goat-drawn wagons can help you get to the other settlements, but you're encouraged to remain in the Primary Settlement. If you insist, though, no one will stop you from leaving. Just be sure you have an invitation to the Secondary Settlement. There are tales of uninvited travelers to the Secondary Settlement disappearing without a trace. The gods are as hungry as they are protective.

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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 nation 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 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 setting choice - 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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krazed: (berks(17))

Harley Quinn ❖ DCEU

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-20 09:01 pm (UTC)(link)
01 — arrival.
the free cities
A:
Did that puddle they pulled me from seem way deeper to either of you?

[She's had some pretty wild nights and woke up plenty of places that she didn't remember being at or getting to but a weird desert day camp for soldier types and a shallow pool of water was bold new territory. The certain aversion she had to water made it all the more vexing, and talking through her problems to find solutions was par for the course even if her idle chatter fell on deaf ears of the other people unfortunate enough to be in the same predicament. She's still dripping, but she appreciates the Sister Warrior fatigues and the boots and puts them on with flourish, pulling the laces tight and taking the time to twist those laces through until they make a five-pointed star on both boots.]

Anyway, I'm gonna need to borrow your phone if you have one, I gotta make a couple of calls unless either of you wanna be in the vicinity when the time-sensitive material in my skull goes kaboom.


B:
[Right before the wagon is set to take off the driver is forced to stall the horses who chuff and whinny in protest. Harley lumbers on, five foot six, pasty skin, dripping blonde hair still stuck in loose dripping pigtails hanging in loose coils looking very much like the namesake.]

Hey, guys! Sorry I'm late, I got sidetracked raiding the provisions tent and almost got caught by two flatfoots.

[If you're fortunate enough to be riding one way two hours with her she'll toss a small MrE their way. It's not great, but it beats being hungry.]

So, we've got some time to kill. You ever play Never Have I ever? or Would you rather? Let me guess, you're a twenty-questions type.



02 — cadens,
the free cities

[The type of person that would treat decomposing remains hanging from a drop noose in the middle of an open area like an omen was too normal of a person for Harley Quinn.

Harley gets right up in there, angling her head to the right and the left to get a better look at the sack of bones sitting out there like a lawn ornament. She's closer than most people would be, and she's studying the remains like she's an MD. She does have a PhD but it's not the kind of thing that could be applied to the medical examination.]


Y'know strategically speaking, leaving this guy out here like a big slab of beef jerky doesn't do this camp any favors either. If they're trying to go Vlad vs. Ottomon they're missing dozens of potential victims for the visual effect, all this does is lure in animal nuisances and potentially spread disease.


03 — nocwich
Harley Quinn! Nice to meet ya.

[Stangers are just people who haven't met Harley yet, and for now she has absolutely no concept of personal space. She needs a partner in crime, and she's gonna make one if one doesn't make themselves known to her.]

This hard-earned haul from the gambling den is burning a hole in my pocket. You humor me, I humor you - fair? Life's too short to play by the rules.

Besides, window shopping only gets you so far.


04 — network


The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog


Understanding how the brain works is one of the key principles of psychology. Learning how and why people think the way they do, and comprehending the theory behind it, can be invaluable.

Harley Quinn

Harleen Quinzel

Harley Fucking Quinn

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣ ♤ ♡ ♢ ♧

nomnoms: (pic#16297322)

!!! nocwich!!

[personal profile] nomnoms 2023-11-20 09:18 pm (UTC)(link)
[ As Harley is attempting to introduce herself to someone, from behind she might feel the approach of a very large, possibly familiar seven foot tall creature... ]

Har-ley... ?

[ His voice rumbles deep in question. In place of his colorful golf shorts, Nanaue sports a rough-looking kilt with a large pocket pouch. The leather is stained dark in places, with what she might rightfully assume is old blood splatter. Some locals stop to stare nervously, but many more seem oddly acquainted with the sight of him.

If she turns, his hand is raised in excited greeting. ]


Hi, friend!
krazed: (berks(23))

best plentyoffish match ever

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-20 09:24 pm (UTC)(link)
[Forget the person in front of her looking slackjawed and not at all like the proper campanion for a little mischief. She lets go of her encouraging, but firm, grip on the spectator and whirls around on one heel.

Her face goes through a few different visible emotions. Confusion, second-guessing her initial visual cue there, and finally - who the fuck cares, acceptance.]


OOooooh, big guy!!

[Harley closes the distance between them in a scampering kind of run that would make the rat girl jealous and wraps her arms around him, not a care in the world.]

I was beginning to think I fell through this rabbit hole all by myself. How ya been? Eatin' good?
Edited 2023-11-20 21:25 (UTC)
nomnoms: (pic#16297484)

heheheh

[personal profile] nomnoms 2023-11-21 05:36 am (UTC)(link)
[ Nanaue's arms jut out from his sides and he stands there in uncertainty for a moment before giving her a gentle pat pat on the back. ]

Rabbit...? [ He glances around them, searching for both rabbits and/or holes, but finds neither. That's okay. She's asked a much more important question - ]

So much nom noms! [ he replies happily. If only she got here a week or two ago he could've shared the big mean fish he fought in the ocean... but sadly it's all gone now (and rotted). Above her head he begins looking from the direction he thinks she came from, as if searching... ]

Where friends?

[ Surely if she's here, that means the others are too!

He never did figure out why the polka dot friend and Flag weren't on the helicopter with them... ]

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carmesi: <user name="berks"> (Default)

nocwich

[personal profile] carmesi 2023-11-21 01:08 am (UTC)(link)
[something wanda would like to ask is how she ends up getting roped in these kind of things. out in nocwich, hoping to run a quick and simple errand just about turns into becoming someone else's "accomplice" for... well, nothing nefarious, thankfully, but it does probably involve more money than what wanda knows what to do with.

she glances at the woman she's found attached to her arm, in a display of familiarity, and tries to pull away just slightly.

sorry, harley, wanda's just a bit of an introvert.]


The way you had to say it was hard-earned feels like you're trying to convince me it was. [just a light jest. she's not entirely unawares of social cues, at least.] Wanda Maximoff.

—got your eye on anything in particular?
Edited 2023-11-21 01:10 (UTC)
krazed: (pic#14091418)

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-21 01:30 am (UTC)(link)
[Definitely the bookish type, and Harley doesn't mind that at all. That just makes her a more mysterious and enigmatic creature! Like a puzzle or a riddle that needed solving, or a maze that took some work to get to the center of. She could handle that and all of her labyrinthian glory.]

Less on the convincing more on the local looky-lous if you know what I'm sayin'

[Harley didn't exactly play fair, but she wasn't sitting at the table playing up the intrigue by counting cards. She knew when to make her grand exit. The foul play would be a little later, sooner than later if Wanda went along with the master plan.]

I'd love to try on the clothes, it's like playing dress up for free, with that whole mall vamp spin on it for flavor but what I really need right now is a stiff drink and some good eats. I'm starving, I could pack in a whole pachyderm given the time and the opportunity.
carmesi: <user name="berks"> (Default)

[personal profile] carmesi 2023-11-21 02:19 pm (UTC)(link)
[does one generally have to pay to play dress up? wanda tries to focus on the woman’s energy as a whole, but finds that it’s otherwise a little convoluted and hard to focus on.

so she focuses on the words, instead.]


I don’t know what a pachyderm is. [—but, she knows of places for stiff drinks and good eats.] A tavern works for you, or do you want somewhere quieter?

[that’s basically her agreeing to going along with harley, at this point.]

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restingstitchface: (Confident)

4

[personal profile] restingstitchface 2023-11-21 03:59 pm (UTC)(link)
𝒴𝑜𝓊 𝓈𝑜𝓊𝓃𝒹 𝓌𝑒𝓁𝓁 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓈𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝓅𝓈𝓎𝒸𝒽𝑜𝓁𝑜𝑔𝓎. 𝐼 𝒶𝓈𝓈𝓊𝓂𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓅𝓇𝑜𝒻𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝑜𝓃𝒶𝓁𝓁𝓎 𝓆𝓊𝒶𝓁𝒾𝒻𝒾𝑒𝒹?
krazed: (cornballer(18))

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-21 08:29 pm (UTC)(link)
you know what they say about assuming
it makes an ass of u and me ♡

but I know enough to make a living, personally choose not to
people's psyches can be so demanding and that's on an unprofessional basis

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thoughts: (25)

time for crime!!

[personal profile] thoughts 2023-11-21 10:03 pm (UTC)(link)
[ nocwich reminds her of li shen's bazaar, if it were cleaner and brighter and generally more fanciful even with the space station's higher technology than what you can find on the border planets. the night sky is similar to the black as well, filled only with stars above and lights below where humankind ( well, maybe it's humanoids now in abraxas ) wants feet to travel.

lots to do here, if you've got the means to pay, and plenty of ways to get lost. and with the sudden company river finds herself in, she imagines it's the perfect kind of place to leave simon wheezing. ]


Windows are only as effective as their tensile strength. These ones don't even seem reinforced.

[ that's... probably not the point harley was making, but river seems very earnest about it all the same! she smiles, curious about this harley quinn that appeared out of nowhere with a grin full of mischief and what river assumes is a pocket full of money. ]

River. Tam. Should we start with new pants?

[ for the holes in her pockets... ]
krazed: (malagraphic)

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 05:50 am (UTC)(link)
If you believe the yokels there's no need for reinforcement or double-panes when you've got all these creatures of the night as pedestrians.

Makes you miss bullet-proof glass and good old-fashioned dynamite. GCPD knew how to prevent some of that unnecessary damage, but we're not about to B&E.

[Harley walks side by side with River while making the small talk, her elbow looped through hers like some mock-up twisted version of following the yellow brick road. No yellow in sight, just American Gothic and cobblestone.

She stops abruptly when she finally gets the answer she's looking for:]


River!!!!! You absolutely just became my favorite person in this stupid place! Let's start here, shall we? Grab as many pants as you can pack in those adorable little arms and we'll decide where we go from there.
Edited 2023-11-22 05:51 (UTC)

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ooc:

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aquilus: (pic#9513241)

1-b

[personal profile] aquilus 2023-11-21 10:34 pm (UTC)(link)
[Altaïr catches the item out of the air and nods at the new arrival. He's not a newcomer who requires the wagon ride, but he'd come here as a courier, delivering a well-bred horse to the barracks - it would have been too annoying to ride one here while leading one for the return trip alongside him.]

Never have I ever played any of those games.
krazed: (shithouse(23))

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 05:57 am (UTC)(link)
[It takes all kinds, and he's got great reflexes, which makes a show of giving a good "thumbs up," for. It's not the first time she's had to explain the basic Q&A games to someone. Most people knew of at least two of them, but an opportunity to educate someone in them was akin to not being bored out of her skull on this carriage to the main stay, so she'll do it to humor them both.]

Okay, well here's all you need to know about them. Twenty questions is the obvious one. You get twenty questions to get to know someone. Answers can only be yes or no.

Let's see...

[Harley unwraps a little bit of the pocket meal and pinches the dehydrated goods between her fingers. She is hungry, but she's also wired. Not knowing where she was or why she was there really put a dampener on any ability she might have had to relax.]

Never Have I Ever's a lot harder without the booze. So maybe put that one on the back burner for now. Which leaves, Would you Rather. You think of two outlandish scenarios and the person listening to the question has to answer. It's a more twisted take on the whole twenty-question thing.

What do you think? We've got way too much time to kill and horses are a lot slower than street cars.
Edited 2023-11-22 06:03 (UTC)

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beautifullies: (444)

[personal profile] beautifullies 2023-11-22 01:15 am (UTC)(link)
𝑇ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑠 𝑠𝑜 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐, 𝐼 𝑚𝑎𝑦 𝑔𝑜 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑜𝑛 𝑎 𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑏 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑎𝑦 𝑦𝑜𝑢'𝑟𝑒 𝑎 𝑚𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑓𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙. 𝐴𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑎 𝑠𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑠𝑡?

[ Anyone with any sort of medical knowledge or degree automatically pings her radar. Doctors of the mind are every bit as important as physicians of the body. ]
krazed: (pic#14091599)

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 06:00 am (UTC)(link)

It's psychology 101, but it's still in the old cranium anyway.

I'm neither. Not so much with the medicine or the science these days.
theidlemaiden: (pic#16095020)

nocwich!

[personal profile] theidlemaiden 2023-11-22 02:02 am (UTC)(link)
[ Hilda follows a similar philosophy to Harley's, at least when it comes to strangers just being people she hasn't met yet.

She seems more than delighted to humour, particularly when it's clear that there might be some shopping involved. Whether or not that means she can smell trouble rolling off of Harley is another question - but what's the harm in a little fun? ]


I think the only positive thing to come out of money burning a hole through your pocket is that you can buy a whole new outfit. I'm Hilda - what sorts of things did you have in mind?
krazed: (shithouse(19))

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 05:27 pm (UTC)(link)
I like the concept of a new outfit, but anything you get here would need massive alterations.

[Harley's speaking on behalf of herself, of course, with one finger placed over her lips as her eyes follow the street from one side to another doing the mental scan of the shops.]

Something without the coarseness of all that wolfy hair, even though the weather might call for it.

What do you think, Pinky?

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satanicpanics: (pic#16082481)

WELL IT'S NOT SOLVUNN but nochwich

[personal profile] satanicpanics 2023-11-22 03:22 am (UTC)(link)
[ The answer to a question he never asked…

But no, for real. Eddie’s just set himself up on the corner with his guitar, clearly busy, clearly in the middle of something when Harley attaches herself to him. He can tell on sight that she might be a little unhinged—something about the way she’s giving him less than half an inch of breathing room. But hey, to a certain degree? Nothing wrong with a little unhinged. Unhinged can be fun.

So he doesn’t look annoyed. He just snorts and grins, plucking out an adapted Black Sabbath riff as he leans away from her and pretends to seriously contemplate her words.
]

Well, now that’s gonna depend. Just how big of a haul are we talking here? Tiny little match’s worth? Or whole ass wildfire?
krazed: (shithouse(12))

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 05:31 pm (UTC)(link)
You're busking? In this financial climate?

[Harley loves music, and she won't hate on the player but there are more ways to make money than standing on a street corner selling your goods to a bunch of unappreciative strangers.

Yeah, she went there.

He's decent too, which makes the whole thing a lot sadder, and her drive to compel him to the dark side that much more urgent.]


Uh, more like light arson? But to be fair, a tiny little match can create a whole ass wildfire with the right accelerant.

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thedreamer: (0543)

1-b

[personal profile] thedreamer 2023-11-22 04:25 am (UTC)(link)
Oh, it's good you're here! [ Said with a genuine and delighted grin. The Doctor catches the item easily enough, looks at it, and then looks back at her before holding it up, intending to throw it back her way. ]

Thank you, but you'll need it far more than I. Hold onto it.

[ The Doctor is not a newcomer, he's been here a few months, but he makes his way out to this area on occasion, wanting to explore more of the land around the Free Cities. ]

I've heard of all of those games, but most importantly, why stop at twenty-questions? Up the ante, make it fifty under a minute. [ Just a slight pause — ] Joking. You pick!
krazed: (shithouse(2))

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 05:59 pm (UTC)(link)
Once you've had one military ration you've had every military ration.

[Except for the pudding, which isn't a joke at the expense of her failed relationship but just facts. Whatever they put in that changed up the game, but she couldn't find any and settled for the next best thing.

Harley catches the packet when it's thrown and it finds a nice spot beside her while they travel. She doesn't think she'll need more than one on a two-hour trip but traveling through dimensions really took a lot out of a girl. She's buzzing on fumes now, something she's gotten pretty good at thanks to Arkham Asylum and the multiple stints she's had to pull off for Amanda Waller.]


Ladies first, how chivalrous! Let's see... Would you rather, bounce off of every surface you touch or never be able to jump again?

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familysucks: (Default)

Nocwich

[personal profile] familysucks 2023-11-22 04:33 am (UTC)(link)
[Michael doesn't move away. He likes his personal space, enough so that he might be willing to defend it if pushed. Harley doesn't seem to mean any harm, though, so he does nothing more aggressive than letting his feathers lift from his wings, as unseen as always. The sound is easy to brush off as leaves rustling, if awfully close.]

Michael. Exactly how would you suggest I humor you?

[Hard to say if the miscommunication is coming from Harley's delivery or Michael's reception. Either way, he doesn't grasp quite what she's after. Gracing her with his attention is already humoring her quite a bit, in his books.]
krazed: (shithouse(9))

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 06:06 pm (UTC)(link)
[Get a load of this one, he walks, talks, and acts like a functional G.I. Joe Doll. If he didn't have such a cutie pie face he'd look like one too.

Harley rolls her eyes but stays breaking the personal boundaries because as long as she can play this off, she absolutely will. It beats the hell out of being bored on the cobblestone streets of Transylvania.]


Alright, Magic Mike. Well, there's a couple ways we can go about this. Firstly, we can do the shopping. I bet you'd fill out some of the armor that's available here and if you're into it we can rent some of those weapons and kick some serious ass.

You look like you could use an excuse to blow off some steam and wreak a little havoc. Am I right?

[Harley raises one eyebrow for effect, the smile on her features sly.]

I'd hate to get between you and your brooding shoulders and creased brow but a place is only as good as what it has to offer and I'm up for the challenge of fully utilizing the market.

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philancer: (012)

4 >.>

[personal profile] philancer 2023-11-22 07:49 pm (UTC)(link)
[ This has nothing to do with any of the rest of what she said, but... ]

Wait, foxes are brown where you come from?

[ Then again, he knows way too much about the way people's minds work. He can't really argue the rest of it.

Also, he's bored. Sorry, Harley. ]
krazed: (pic#14091599)

[personal profile] krazed 2023-11-22 10:06 pm (UTC)(link)
That's your takeaway here?

We have all types of foxes where I'm from. Red, White, Brown, Black, those ones with the bat ears.

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