TEST DRIVE MEME #15

[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 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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Comments

Questions

[abraxasmods]

Will Solace | Riordan-verse| The Empress | Free Cities

[sonofacesius]

Arrival

Naturally. Finally finish your quest trapsing all around Tartarus and happen to not die? Get kidnapped by crazy people in a cave. With everything that happened recently with Apollo getting turned mortal and then turned into a god again and his own quest with Nico, well, was this pick on the Apollo cabin year?

And all they had to say was 'Sorry about the circumstances?' Really? He'd heard better apologies from the Olympians, and that was kind of saying something. And then, and Will quite thought this was the kicker, 'the world was in a delicate and dangerous time, he needed to help.' The end of the line was back that way. Take a number. At least he couldn't get sunburned, that was something of a silver lining here in the desert. Kidnap the Apollo kid, at least he wont die looking like a lobster.

"You know, if you all really needed help, you should have abducted me with my med kit. And maybe my clothing. Just saying. It's only polite." He didn't expect to be asked first. He didn't know who these guys were, but if the Olympians had taught him anything, it was not to expect common courtesy's. Granted, they usually provided clothing.

Cadens

The training grounds caught his eye, although the non lethal weapons and obstacle courses were hilarious compared to the exploding chainsaw frisbees and the climbing wall complete with bounders and lava that were found at Camp Half Blood. People learned a lot quicker. Or maybe that was just the demigods? Still, Will is happy to show off his skills, especially since he can't hurt mortals with the non pointy weapons. He's even more likely to go with the obstacle course, not being exactly a fighter. He is however, extremely fast. Good for running away when monsters are chasing you fast.

He will also be hanging around by the sidelines in case anyone manages to get hurt with those non lethal weapons. He'd seen people get their arms ripped off. You were all in fine hands. Of course, he had also been abducted without any of his medical equipment. Thanks a lot for that, so helpful!

"So why the kiddie proof weaponry?" He didn't get it. At all. Sure, mortals tended to be careful about that sort of stuff. "Call me crazy, but if you're going around abducting people because you're in desperate need of help? Maybe stepping it up with the weapons training? I'm not saying let's start leaping over lava but....I didn't know there was such a thing as a safety sword."

Will, likewise, would run up to help the merchant round up ornaments. The shock wasn't that bad, compared to say, lava burns. And there was something really funny about a glow in the dark demigod gathering ornaments that also glowed in the dark. He might glow a bit in response to the light up oranment, grinning softly before stopping so he didn't waste his energy. "Hilarious. I'm hilarious."

Nocwich

You can also find the son of Apollo poking around Nocwich, hoping against hope for any sign of skeletons, zombies or a certain grumpy ball of darkness otherwise known as his boyfriend. He might be examining items for purchase, wondering if they have any medicinal value or some sugary snacks to replenish his medkit with. You had to get creative in a word without kit kats and ambrosia.

" I don't suppose you know where I'd find ambrosia here? No? Yeah, too easy. How about some chocolate?"

[OOC: Nothing hitting your fancy? Want something special? Hit me up at caletara or via PM! And brackets, quotes, go with your heart! <3]

Harley Quinn ❖ DCEU

[krazed]

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

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣ ♤ ♡ ♢ ♧

!!! nocwich!!

[nomnoms]

[ 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!

best plentyoffish match ever

[krazed]

[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?

ed teach | our flag means death | the devil

[krakened]

≅ arrival (solvunn)

[ You know what's not fuckin' cool? Dragging a man butt-naked outta the water. Seriously, he thought he was drowning again, and this time, a merman wasn't even gonna save him. When he comes to, he's surrounded by a bunch of old guys in robes. A very large bearded man taps him on the shoulder. Ed jumps with a Jesus Christ! and might've accidentally-on-purpose thrown an elbow.

Long story short, he's now wrapped up in a thick shawl (it's pretty soft, he'll give them that) as he pokes around the snow-covered meadows.

He's never been so goddamn cold in his life. You know what he does when weather happens where he's at? He sails away from it. That's the thing about being at sea, you just...sail away from weather. Especially bad weather. Cold weather. Except last he knows, he wasn't at sea. He was on a small island with a shitty little inn they were gonna make nice, and no one can explain why he's not there anymore. Nobody can explain why Stede isn't with him. Or, like, anyone he knows. It sucks. This sucks.

A clump of snow tumbles off a branch and thumps him on the head. What the—

He flails. ] Fuck off!

≅ so many hands (solvunn)

—And then, we were gonna put up, erm, purple curtains. Lavender, actually, 'cause periwinkle, as it turns out, is more blue, and Stede thought it might clash with all the green stuff around us. Yeah, right? That's what I said. So, what d'you think of this one?

[ Ed holds up the woven blanket. It's knitted in shades of brown, mostly, so who the fuck knows what got him onto purple (certainly not Ed himself), but hey, that's where they are and he thinks he's got pretty rapt attention from his audience. Who is his audience, you might ask?

Well, Billy Bramble right here, who's staring at him and chewing on grass, probably, or whatever lambs eat.

(It is not a lamb. It's very much a goat, but Billy isn't exactly capable of telling him what sort of animal he identifies as, so a lamb it's gonna be.)

The lamb bleats and wanders off, disinterested. Which, c'mon now, that's fuckin' rude, right? Ed turns to the nearest soul in his vicinity. Around Ed's feet are a collection of blankets, a basket of fruit, two tins of tea, and like, at least four jars of tiny red fish. He's obviously been assigned a bunch of shit to do, none of which he's successfully accomplished. ]

You see that? Spend all that time pickin' something nice out for someone, and they don't even want it. None of these farmer guys told me how picky these fucking things are. Anyway, what about you? Any luck? Or fashion advice for wool-less sheep?

≅ nocwich

[ He'd come here in hopes that it was gonna be warmer, but it's not. If anything, it's even fucking colder. Luckily, some grandma took pity on him, so now he's got a fur cloak that's doing a surprising job at keeping out the icy air.

Thanks, Mr. Wolf, you were butchered and skinned for the charitable cause of helping a man not freeze his dick off.

Of course, now he's wondering if he should, uh, feel weird? Is this weird? Is he offending the wolf people by wearing a dead wolf draped around his shoulders? He's pretty sure the real question is, why are people telling him the werewolves are real, but that's digging far deeper than his brain wants to go right now. He's already been told to shove off when he tried to step in and out of the little circle door just because the whole...sunlight then not-sunlight thing was so trippy. How do you wrap your head around that?

He wanders aimlessly towards the stalls. Reminds him of the Republic of Pirates, if you were just sat in darkness forever. He ends up peeking into a tavern. They don't kick him out for not having a single doubloon to his name, but they also won't spare him a drink, so he's just...gonna sit right here, alone, and feel sorry for himself. He deserves to feel sorry for himself for at least a day or three. ]

I bet you'd love it here. [ He rests his chin on his arms, which are folded over the beer-stained table, the picture of melancholy. ] You'd say, "Chin up, Ed! Look at all these new faces you could talk to! A man could get inspired in a place like this, don't you agree?" And you'd be right, I guess.

[ He sighs. The candle snuffs itself out. Oh, great. That's excellent. Even the candle hates him. ]

So Many Hands

[smilefornow]

Goat.

[It's automatic. Arthur likes to be helpful and informative! And there may be large gaps in his animal identifying knowledge, but barnyard animals he can certainly manage. So he offers the information with an earnest smile, not recognizing the man with the ungrateful bovid. Someone new? Even newer than him?

That would be a lark!]

A wool-less sheep that goes 'mneeeeh' is a goat. I think their only concern regarding fashion is eating it. Maybe he didn't think it looked very appetizing?

[Identifying a goat is about as far as Arthur's useful knowledge of them goes. Aside from that they are very important here, and the tiny ones are criminally adorable.]

But it looks like you've been more successful in your errands than me. Went out without a list, my own fault.

[A gesture to his own basket, which is mostly empty aside from a small wheel of cheese and some dried meat sticks.]

[divinityfrompain]

Hi just checking, is it snowy in Solvunn usually at this time or is it mostly cold?

[krakened]

[ Ed squints at the twig of a man who's come up to him. Jesus. Talk about snap-able in a small breeze. He looks back at the not-sheep. Goat. Yeah, all right, he can see it. A goat. Mostly 'cause he remembers when Fang took his goat on board. Whatever happened to him?

Must've lost track of it. Hopefully not...overboard. The goat, that is, not Fang. Fang's fine. Doing great. Definitely better than Ed's doing. ]

What, all this? Naw— [ He waves his hands at the pile of stuff. ] They just kept shoving it at me while I was having a chat with Billy here. Think they want me to give them to everyone, but fuck if I know where I'm supposed to go. Hey, you know a...

[ Goat solidly forgotten (it's now chewing on the edge of the blanket), he picks up one of the tins and flips it around in his hands until he catches a name written at the bottom. ]

—Ingrid Fletcher around here?

devynn nisk ★ original ★ the hermit

[spoir]

★ solvunn

( this wasn't avernus. it wasn't waterdeep. but apparently everything was in danger. those were words that devynn was slowly beginning to become familiar with, hating that they sounded familiar at all and wished--

everything had been a wish lately and the more that she hoped and searched for answers the more distance she seemed to find between her and them too. and now she was in yet another land.

days had passed, meals had been shared and her magic had slowly strengthened in this place, coated around her despite unfamiliar sentiments and gods she wished not to know. but for as friendly as people have been, offering food and scarves, she's already found some of what these dangers proclaim.

missing children, haunting spirits. as much as devynn would rather stay away from danger and trouble her heart can't help but draw her in, though even with directions told she isn't certain where to begin. so she asks in town, trying to find someone that may point her in the right beginning )

★ nocwich

( portals shouldn't be so easy but she'd been assured that nocwich was a steady place, often visited, and it's a new wonder when devynn does make it through.

she visits the markets first, a few items with her that she could trade, before trying to find her bearings around. the hot springs are cautiously approached, a wish to enjoy the luxury but a shyness in her, taverns poked into to listen to stories and the nature simply enjoyed.

she travels there only on one day, hoping to find one thing at least to make her smile )

[theidlemaiden]

[ Few things, save for a dip into the hot springs, fails to warm Hilda up from the inside out like a drink does. Which isn't to say that she's ruled out a visit to the hot springs (no trip to Nocwich is complete without one as far as she's concerned), but with the chill in the air so reminiscent of her arrival here a year ago she decides to treat herself to everything Nocwich has to offer as a means of quiet celebration (or is it also mourning?) to a year passed here in Abraxas.

She had thought being alone would do her mind some good after being jammed full of things that she'd rather not think about, but she should have known better. Thoughts creep in even against the bright backdrop of the market stalls and the gems she purchases from Glen. A drink might chase things away, and that's why she dips into the tavern and out of the cold. With a hot cider in hand she flits further inside when she encounters a man who looks and sounds like how she feels.

Oh, well. What could it hurt? Hadn't she just been looking for company? ]

Whoever your friend is is right and clearly sent a new face for you to talk to because they knew that you'd be mopey.

[ She's the picture of cheerfulness - from her pink hair and eyes to the pink of her cheeks from the cold outside - as she quickly sets her drink on the table and pulls out a box of matches from her bag. They were lighter to carry around than scissors and frankly, you never knew when pesky loose threads needed to be handled. ]

If you need to get inspired does that mean you're an artist of some kind?

[abraxasmods]

Hello! Solvunn does get occasional snowfalls, but the snow does not form thick layers all season like it would up in the mountains of Hayle. Some winters can be colder than others, which Solvunn attributes to the whims of the Gods. Hail and icy rains are more common. Usually, some green can be seen beneath the snow when it blankets the commune. The sun can cause it to melt within several days.

We'll make the appropriate clarifications!

nocwich

[wwrench]

He’s been so busy preparing himself for his first winter in Solvunn that Wrench hasn’t paused to take much notice of the recent comings and goings from the place. There are a few faces he’s gotten used to by now. It’s strange for a man who’s lived his life to see the same people week after week, but there’s a part of him that’s come to appreciate the small charm of the predictability. Maybe it’s a little bit of a comfort to him. But it’s the new faces that are most interesting — not because he’s expecting to see anyone he knows, but because he never takes for granted the fact that someone might land themselves here who has more of a problem with him than the current Summoned have.

Of course, any new face in Nocwich might just be a person from another faction. Wrench isn’t sure what to make of all of that just yet. Politics are the game of men with more power and more resource than he could ever hope to have. If there’s a reason to pay attention to this faction business, it’s only to know what they might have that he doesn’t.

But it’s nothing like that that’s caught his attention now. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The wolfskin the stranger has wrapped around his shoulders looks like it could have been Wrench’s own handiwork, except that the only wolves he’s taken came through a portal and had acid for spit. It looks nice, though, and if there’s someone around here dealing in fur trade he’d like to know it.

He notices the man doesn’t have a drink, so he brings over two glasses of ale when he approaches. Wrench sets one in front of the stranger, then sets himself directly across the table from the man. He pauses and raises his eyebrows, like he’s waiting to see if he’s about to be run off.

[smilefornow]

Oh, yes, I'm on something of a similar outing. The Oyvind clan needs a...well, a great many things picked up at the market, but I'm afraid I can only remember two or three of them. Mind like a sieve, sorry to say.

[Hence Arthur's scantly filled basket. Usually people only want one thing, not a whole list of things. He really ought to have written it all down, not trusted his piss poor memory to do the job.

Well. He'll figure it out. Or bring back all the wrong things, either way.]

Ah, I do know an Ingrid, but I think there's a few of those about...you haven't got anything labeled for any Oyvinds, have you?

[Maybe they'll both get lucky and be able to help one another out. He'd really rather not go back with all the wrong things, and this fellow certainly has quite a few things to haul about.

Unless 'Billy' eats that blanket. So he does find it appetizing!]

crowley | good omens | the devil | solvunn

[goodtobebad]

01; market;

[ He probably looks wildly out of place, even dressed in the clothing provided for him. He slinks around as though he doesn't actually have a spine, a shock of red hair standing out (and probably a few inches above most people), not to mention the yellow snake eyes. ]

Why do I always wind up someplace cold and damp? Almost makes me miss the fire and brimstone.

[ He saunters up to a stand selling... something. Goods. Homemade goods. ]

Don't s'pose you have any sunglasses for sale? I left my spares in my car.

02; Helping hands;

[ How he got roped into doing this, is anybody's guess. But, once he's wrapped the goat (so, so gently) in its little jumper, he actually sits, right on a hay bale there in the little barn, and he pulls something out of an inner pocket, holding it out. The goat takes the treat, and Crowley's lips almost - almost! - twitch upwards. ]

You remind me of someone. The goatiest goat to ever goat. It was a long time ago.

03; Nocwich;

[ Now, this, Crowley can get behind. Spooky, in general, is his vibe. Big spooky fan, this one. Still cold, though, which forces him into a tavern. He settles into a dark corner, a spot for observing more than being observed, and orders "whatever's drinkable". ]

At least it's not the fourteenth century. I really hated the fourteenth century.

04; wildcard

[ Feel free to pick another starter, or make up your own! He can be found all over Solvunn and Nocwich! ]

arrival

[carmesi]

[the slew of arrivals with the summoning ritual is not unexpected, but the colorful demeanor of the people who come through is. wanda can't help the way her lips flatten into a thin line as she watches the bearded-man flail at fallen clumps of snow. would that their arrival match with the day snow sticks to its surroundings.

she takes a step forward towards him.]

It's just snow— [and a hand raises towards him, to lightly touch his arm] Take it easy.

nocwich

[carmesi]

[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?

sun..glasses

[carmesi]

[wanda is willing to ignore the talk about fire and brimstone, because people sure like to talk out loud a lot? and maybe it's not her place to listen in on any of these things, even if she does perceive quite a bit through her telepathy. it's impossible to ignore, too, the children running about talking about the weird, tall guy with the untamed red hair and weird yellow eyes.

the excitement of newcomers.

sunglasses and car, though, spell something familiar to her, as she approaches him, her presence putting at ease the vendor who is at a loss on how to respond to the question.]

What style is your preference?

[all he needs to do is imagine it and wanda will pick up on that, but for now she offers him a pair of generic sunglasses with black frames, sitting neatly on her hand.]

[krazed]

[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.

Merchant

[nadine_he_loves]

Nadine might be in a bit of a hurry, but she can't just walk by the unfortunate scene in the street. It's just too sad, and as far as she can see, only one person has bothered to help.

Well, if she's a bit late to class, she'll be forgiven. She's at the top of her class, and an influential Summoned.

"Here, let me give you a hand."

She approaches with a small smile, a practically dressed woman of average height woman with white hair and a pair of small, pearlescent horns. There's a leather satchel slung over her shoulder.

[goodtobebad]

[ When this person addresses him, her question brings to his mind an image of a very specific pair of shades - though he doesn't say anything immediately.

He glances down at the sunglasses that seem to magically appear in her hand and, rather than being grateful, or even shocked and amazed by her magic trick, he gets a suspicious glint in his eyes. ]

Who... are you, and how can you do that? I can't do that, and I should be able to.

[krakened]

[ Mopey? Ed looks up with a frown of protest, which might not be all that effective seeing as he's in the goddamn shadows. ]

I'm not moping, I'm—ruminating, okay. There's a difference. For the record, this— [ He makes little circles around him with his hands ] —atmosphere of depression is partly to blame on improper lighting.

[ A problem he will address...right now. Thanks to the matches. The candle flares back to life. See? Much better. He shakes out the match. Now that he can actually see the lass, he realizes her hair is pink. Extremely pink. How the hell does that work? Did someone feed her a flamingo as a kid?

Ed's got questions, but Ed's also as distractable as a squirrel, so as soon as she asks him something, he's immediately thinking about it and not her hair. ]

No, I'm—you think I look like an artist? [ Should he be flattered? Not sure how he feels about that one, he'll circle back. ] I'm an [ pause ] innkeeper. Yeah. Got ourselves some sweet digs before they, uh. Kidnapped me.

02

[smilefornow]

Darling things, aren't they? Till they try and eat your trousers, at least.

[Entering the barn is one of the most English of Englishmen, carrying a rake with a shiny new handle.

Arthur's dressed in the local fashion, save for his thick rimmed Buddy Holly glasses and his neatly parted and styled hair. And he lacks that hearty air that most Solvunnites have, he's scrawny as a beanpole and at just over six feet, it's very noticeable. A nervous sort of energy radiates off of him.]

Don't mind me, I was dropping off a parcel and then Mrs. Dagfinn remembered I work for a carpenter and well...here we are, with one freshly repaired rake. Won't be a tick, just putting it away.

[goodtobebad]

[ Crowley seems unbothered by the intrusion - his focus is still on the goat in front of him for the moment, and he pulls a few more treats out of an inner pocket. Clearly, he's got a lot of them. ]

Goats are wildly misunderstood. Plus, they make good lawn mowers. They keep the grass short and fertilize it.

[ Only then does he lift his yellow, snakelike gaze to the stranger. He hasn't yet found a pair of sunglasses that suits him. And besides, it can be useful, in this little commune, to see who gets nervous at it, and who doesn't. ]

Re: Merchant

[sonofacesius]

Will's first instinct was to wonder what she was? He'd never seen that shade of horns before, they were really quite spectacular. And since she was offering to help instead of trying to eat him, he was guessing she was friendly. At least back home, things that wanted to eat you tended not to be great with manners.

He tossed her a ball. "Thanks. Maybe with the right leverage, we can right the wagon?" At least then they'd have a better place to put them. How much did that wagon weigh? A couple hundred? A couple thousand? He was eying the hair. Dryad? No... Meanwhile, Will was a tall sixteen year old with curly blond hair and a surfer body.

"I'm Will. Are you an abductee or abductor?" No hostility in his voice, just curiosity. Some things, you just got used too.