TEST DRIVE MEME #17

[abraxasmods]

Test Drive Meme

Important Links

Setting ⦁ Game History ⦁ NPCs ⦁ Arcana ⦁ FAQ

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 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. You can also find answers to questions asked on previous TDMs in their respective question threads.

The TDM is forward-dated to when the summonings occur in-game (when applications are accepted), at the start of April.

While the world is undergoing some tumultuous weather, newly arrived characters will be assured that everything is being taken care of and cautioned to shelter indoors where possible.

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 getting anywhere. If you reach for an item you were carrying the 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 territories: 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.

Go to scenario

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 spring, the weather is cool and marked by howling windstorms. In the distance, snow continues to cover the mountain peaks. Spring flowers are beginning to bloom in 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:

• Windstorms batter the walls outside. The city of Castle Thorne is largely safe, but debris, fallen trees, and toppled wagons are still a danger. Try not to go outside unless you have to! Across the sky, lightning surges horizontally, never touching the ground.


• 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. There's some buzz about the arrival of Admiral Rudolph Sidwell, the Queen's uncle. While Rudolph is temporarily staying in Nott, he can occasionally be seen in the castle halls when he visits Castle Thorne.

◎ Exploring

Despite the troubles that plague the land, Castle Thorne and its surrounding city have much for you to indulge in.

Sorting Tomes
A few apprentices out on errands have grown trapped behind some fallen debris, leaving the library short of helping hands. Volunteers are desperately needed to help sort and shelve the books, which are beginning to pile up. Fortunately, Thorne's magical shelving system means the shelves will immediately let you know if a book has been placed incorrectly. Unfortunately, the way this works is that the book will expel itself back out and fall to the floor. Watch your head!

Serene Steeds
Due to the heavy storms, Thorne's prized horses are growing nervous in their stables. To help soothe them, apprentice mages have asked you to cast a calming spell on each horse. The spell relies on Academic Magic. While the spell only requires saying a few words correctly, a lack of concentration can result in some unexpected memories or feelings surfacing, inducing strong emotions. You might vividly recall a tumultuous moment in your life or find yourself reflecting on who you are, where you came from, and where you might go next.

Painting Session
You're encouraged to explore Thorne's proud naval history in Borrel at its Maritime Fair. Because of the storms, it's being held indoors within heavily strengthened walls. Here, you can join a paint and cider session where you can follow a guided instructor to paint a displayed model of Thorne's famous naval warships. To finish your masterpiece, 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 eternal darkness and is home to the werewolves and the vampires, is, unfortunately, CLOSED due to recent events.

◎ 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, day trips 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 or you can earn some pocket money by doing chores around the Castle.

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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 the sandstorm has obscured the sun, lowering the typical spring temperatures. At night, temperatures will drop further. 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 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:

• Sandstorms assail the cites, especially in Cadens. The dust is thick and choking, and visibility is low. Try not to go outside unless you have to! Across the sky, lightning surges horizontally, never touching the ground.


• In the Cadens barracks, soldiers are hard at work fortifying its walls and preparing for further changes in weather. Shops and merchant stalls that populate Cadens' outdoor markets are absent. With the storms going on, the city streets are eerily empty except for vagrants and those who don't have shelter to retreat to.


• 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.

◎ Exploring

Despite the troubles that plague the land, the barracks and Cadens have much for you to indulge in.

Pimp My Ride
Innovation is the way of the Free Cities, and showing it off is just as important. Every few years, wagon enthusiasts will display their customized New Magic-powered wagons in the Wagon Parade. Although this usually takes place in the streets of Cadens, this month's storm has forced the parade indoors into the Fortune Arena, the oldest horse arena in the city. They'll need help boarding up windows and doorways so that the this year's amazing entries aren't harmed. As with any event, pop-up merchants appear along the parade line selling food, drink, and a variety of commemorative tokens.

Masking Up
Dust storms are not unheard of in the desert, but the reduced air quality is still a concern. In response, the government is distribuing breathing masks and is asking for volunteers who are willing to brave current conditions to hand them out. Standard government-issued designs are free, but some wealthy citizens have elected for a more refined design while the cautious opt for total coverage. You'll be given your own mask (in the design of your choice), but the winds will still be a force to contend with. Be sure to travel with a partner for safety.

New Wave, New Age
New Magic is how the Free Cities diverges from reliance on more traditional magic. With New Magic, the Arcana plays a much more limited role. However, New Age thinkers of Libertas have risen with the arrival of the Summoned. They stress that to move to the future, you cannot forget your past. To encourage this reconnection with one's roots, a group of New Age practitioners have set up a table at the Cadens Library. You can take part in designing your own tarot card on pieces of thin metal. The goal is to create a design that speaks to you the most: find inspiration from your connections to the world, from home, or through an important symbol in your life. Special pens will easily burn and engrave any marks you make, so craft carefully.

Nocwich
Nocwich, which is shrouded in eternal darkness and is home to the werewolves and the vampires, is, unfortunately, CLOSED due to recent events.

◎ 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 are 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 amid 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 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 who 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 who 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. With spring on the way, the winds remain somewhat chilly and the rains are heavy - not to mention the small twisters forming across the plains and on the ocean. 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:

• Small twisters assail the settlements. While it isn't strong enough to lift homes or large structures, important shrines, and small animals are still in danger. Try not to go outside unless you have to! Across the sky, lightning surges horizontally, never touching the ground.


• Shops and stalls have closed due to conditions. The strong community means in Solvunn everyone has chosen to pitch in to help each other out, delivering meals when there's a break in the storms, finding lost pets, repairing broken gates, and exchanging essential goods.


• Fishing in the Tertiary Settlement has also ground to a halt. Isar Hart, who sits on the Council, can be seen frequently in the Primary Settlement to gather much-needed supplies for the residents.

◎ Exploring

Despite the troubles that plague the commune, the commune and its settlements have much for you to indulge in.

Shrine Offerings
As a new arrival, you'll be encouraged to perform your first offering. Due to the turbulent weather, Solvunn believes offerings in the tradition of High Magic might quell the Gods' fury. Create a bundle using a combination of fruit, wine, flowers, or an animal you've hunted. It must be picked and put together by your own hand. Once you're ready, you can approach any shrine belonging to a God that speaks to you: is it Cadaevos, who purifies the community and soul? Endrborrin, who brings forth spring and change? Vagn, who oversees one's journey in death? It's a good idea to travel with a partner. While the twisters aren't deadly, they can be dangerous if you're not careful. Perhaps, along the way, you can talk about what the concept of gods and blessings mean to you.

Goatnado
Due to the heavy rains, Solvunn's fine tradition of goat racing has been put on hold so the goats can be kept safe inside their pens. Of course, the goats prefer their free-range lifestyle and are prone to escaping. Help find missing goats or tend to the ones who have been returned to their pens. It may not be as simple as following the sound of bleating and tying them up; reports of small twisters picking up goats and other livestock have been made, sending them far away from their pens and farms and even into the more dangerous wilds or inconveniently on buildings and houses. You'll need to team up and track them down before they can cause any property damage or get hurt themselves.

The Shrieking of the Weeds
Goats and livestock aren't the only victims of the sudden winds. Farmlands and crops also face the brunt of destruction. The twisters travel quickly across Solvunn's low and flat landscape, and the freshly tilled earth is even easier to disturb. As a result, Shrieking Weeds, a staple garden guardian in Solvunn, are being ripped from the ground and sent in whirling, noisy tempests that keep everyone up all night and day. The weeds must be retrieved and will only quiet when planted back into the ground. Luckily, you can easily follow their discordant cries to find them.

Nocwich
Nocwich, which is shrouded in eternal darkness and is home to the werewolves and the vampires, is, unfortunately, CLOSED due to recent events.

◎ 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 & 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 territory your character is drawn into has nothing to do with their morality, beliefs, or how highly they regard themselves and their 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 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 into 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 territory?

No, they must remain within the territory except when visiting Nocwich. Review the Travel section on each territory's Setting page for where characters can go within their borders.

Can my character eventually change territories?

Yes, but tensions between the major territories are at an all-time high. Doing so is possible, but will require some plotting 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. Those interested in court politics, the Singularity, and magic will have the most access in Thorne. Anyone who wishes to uncover the secrets of the Gods and other mysteries will best do so in Solvunn.

This is not to say characters are locked out of other scenarios completely. With effort and the help of friends, anything is possible! Don't get too anxious about your choice. Every character in each scenario can work their way towards many individual goals. Additionally, once in-game, the Horizon, Nocwich, and certain events will let characters make easy cross-border 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. You'll 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?

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. In situations where Nocwich is closed, you can put up prompts for multiple scenarios, though only the one you choose in the application can become canon.

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. 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

Gale | Baldur's Gate 3 (The Lovers)

[karsiteweave]

[ OOC: Please be aware... Gale comes with content warnings, including a degree of religious-influenced suicidal ideation. His Goddess told him to kill himself for the greater good! At this Act 2 canon point, he has recently tried and... so far as he can tell, potentially failed?

My starters are Prose, but I can switch to match brackets. ]

THORNE

i - CASTLE: NORTH WING

Gale is stood staring out the window of his new room, watching the weather with open curiosity. The way the wind howls around Thorne, the clouds, the colour of the sky. He's still dressed in the silk tunic offered to him earlier, and still buzzing somewhat from the whole experience. He shouldn't be here. He shouldn't be anywhere, yet he is...

"Horizontal lightning," he murmurs. "Fascinating stuff. The most common type of lightning veers toward the ground but, it isn't unheard of for it to travel between clouds too. Still, quite the display isn't it?"

All that wind, the constant surges of lightning. Quite some storm. Not, Gale suspects, something natural -- although who is he to say what is natural for this place? He turns slightly from the window, and a slight patterning of purple veins down under his eyes becomes more visible. It's not exhaustion, although there's some of that too, but... something else. They seem to be darker as they travel down his neck, and vanish beneath the collar of his tunic. He smiles, but the discerning observer may realise it doesn't quite reach his eyes.

"Apologies, you must think me most ill mannered. Gale of Waterdeep, at your service. I was told these were my new accommodations? I do hope I'm not in the way."

ii - CASTLE: SORTING TOMES

Sorting books? Now that sounds exactly the sort of thing to put Gale at ease. He's tilting his head, reading the spines of them and regularly becoming distracted enough that he starts reading them. Quite content to carry this task out alone, the only break to the silence is his occasional muttering and then, suddenly, a book he tries to shelf ejecting itself back out at him. It bounces off his chest, and he struggles to steady the stack in his arms and not lose it all.

"Of all the sorting systems to use," he says, and moves to set the books he's carrying on the ground. "Was this one quite necessary?"

A little violent, surely? Or maybe he's just feeling especially agitated. Books set down, he moves his hands in a circular motion, a soft glow building up.

"Veni et iuva me," he says, with easy confidence -- and yet. The magic flares, then sputters and fades. Gale presses his lips into a thin line, then lifts one hand to rub at his chest as if easing an ache. Still nothing. "I see. Very well, your way it is then."

He picks up the book that bounced off him, squints at the spine more carefully.

iii - NETWORK

Hello, Gale of Waterdeep here. Do excuse me if I'm doing this wrong, I'm told it functions as a sort of wide range message spell. I'm hoping to learn more about this 'Singularity' here. An incredible sounding thing, in truth! A source of all magic, this specific artefact? I've been told that is safe to approach for 'summoned' like myself, but that it disintegrates all others. Far be it from me to doubt my sources, but I would like to hear a little more about people's experiences approaching it.

IV - WILDCARD

[ Pitch me an idea and we can go with it! ]

ii.

[ushiri]

( ooc: hi hi! this is the astarion player with my thorne character! he also has religious related traumas, I have an opt-out with content warnings! )

Kahlil doesn't frequent the library as often as he did when he first arrived almost a year and a half ago, but he still stops by to check in with Jack, or to drop off a package for a mage working here. The latter is the reason he's here today, when he spots an unfamiliar face.

"What was that you just did?" he asks, canting his head to one side. Kahlil dresses in a way that doesn't particularly stand out, simple and dark colored clothing that don't identify him as either a native or one of the Summoned to someone new here. This person is easy enough to clock as a newly arrived Summoned, though, making a failed attempt to use natural abilities or magic. Everyone goes through it, and he knows already the usual faces here.

[karsiteweave]

"Oh, nothing."

Literally, in fact. Ha ha. He forces a smile. Cheerful, Gale Dekarios! Friendly! You're alive, somehow, and yes -- the weave may no longer answer you but you've been hampered before and worked through it. Assuming that --

He cuts off the thought before it takes itself any further, spins to the newcomer properly -- book tilted a little in his hand.

"Say, do you know who designed the enchantment on this library? Quite an ingenious system, I must admit, but I'm finding it a little on the aggressive side. While I do appreciate the healthy gusto with which it rejects my misfiling of a tome I would prefer something less at risk of doing damage to their spines. Or my chest, for that matter!"

Not that it really hurt much, but he's going for comedy at his own expense. A little misdirection, perhaps, but it's worked wonders for him before.

[ushiri]

For a moment Kahlil's gaze studies his features, tracks the slightly darkened veins down one side of the man's face - a sign of illness is his initial guess. There's something about his humorous rambling that reminds him of the Doctor. His eyes continue to trail down to his chest as attention is brought to it, and Kahlil gives a soft scoff and one shouldered shrug.

"Looks sturdy enough to me," he counters, then adds slightly (un)helpfully, "- some castle mages should be responsible for the enchantment upkeep."

He can't say who set it in place first, though.

Kahlil crouches down to the pile of books set on the floor, selecting the one at the top and eyeing the cover of what appears to be esoteric tome on the mating habits of sea eels in the Hydra Gulf. He scrunches his nose and rises again with it in hand, glancing at the shelves for wherever it came from.

"Interested in any of this, or just bored?"

He'll play along.

[karsiteweave]

"Ahh, yes, of course! Some castle mages."

His slow repetition of this suggests it deep, helpful wisdom. The twitch of his smile says they both know that was absolutely not helpful in any way, but that it doesn't matter. Still, his attention flits over as Kahlil rises with the book. He reaches to pick one up himself, one that appears to be on local herbs.

"Oh, I'm interested in everything! This whole region is new to me, so there is plenty to learn. Geography, history, laws, flora and fauna among them. But you, I sense, are not a new traveller to these regions."

Indeed, his new companion has the air of someone quite at home in the setting. Someone useful to know, then. Exactly what Gale needs!

iii.

[ancunin]

Gale of Waterdeep, you say? Well - prove it then!

[ Who would EVEN want to pretend to be Gale, honestly... but it might be smart to check first, just to be certain... ]

[karsiteweave]

[ Prove it?! Only, hang on. The Writing is more hurried, briefly: ]

Astarion? Is that really you? You're --

[ The writing sort of peters, pauses, as Gale clearly has to think. ]

As alive as you were previously, I suppose. Where are you? I'm in some sort of castle which boasts an impressive library. There appears to be a storm raging in the area. Horizontal lightning!

[ He... draws a little sketch underneath, of lightning going between two clouds. ]

[ancunin]

[ How did he - oh, hells, his name is attached.

Ugh.

There's a long pauses before a response comes, in which he squints at the way Gale's writing trails off for a moment. ]

Strange. You almost sound surprised.

[ As much as anyone can sound like anything in writing. ]

I've found myself in the city of Cadens, in the territory known as the Free Cities. You must have been Summoned to Thorne.

[ another pause between messages, and with perhaps surprisingly genuine concern: ]

I suggest keeping a low profile and using caution there. I've not heard good things.

[karsiteweave]

[ Shouldn't he be surprised? Gale feels something uneasy pass through him. He could play his cards close to his chest, but is there any gain here with that? The urge to just burble his feelings always sits under his skin, ready to strike.

Astarion would hate that. Is writing easier or harder than saying these things? He can't quite decide. It feels like he's not really saying anything, after all. ]

They've been pleasant enough so far, but I will keep that in mind. After all we've dealt with, surely it can't be worse?

[ Stupid thing to say, on reflection, things can always get worse. ]

Are the Free Cities far from here? I know the weather isn't conducive to travel, currently, but is there somewhere we can meet once it settles?

iii

[durge]

You know, Gale, I almost thought you'd have shown up sooner. Haelva, though you might not be as familiar with me as I am with you.

( do NOT eat the singularity, gale. )

[karsiteweave]

[ Is he... late?! Has he forgotten something? Or some... one? All entirely possible, unfortunately. ]

You will have to jog my memory, I'm afraid. Have we met? Or are you familiar with me by other means?

[ There are both good and bad options here, after all. ]

[durge]

Something like that. You may remember an individual who had a tadpole in their head and somewhat... led your merry party in search of a cure. For me, that's none other than myself. For Astarion, that's a woman named Tav.

[karsiteweave]

[ Oh, him. He was hoping to actually not think of him ever again but... beggars cannot be choosers, one supposes. ]

A drow man in my case. Uncommonly fond of knives. His name was Hatchven.

ii.

[iustise]

Lord John cannot say he is or is not in the habit of frequenting the library on the whole, but given the day off from his duties on the guard, he has had to find something to do with himself, especially with the weather outside as it is. Tidying the books seems to be as good a task as any. He cannot say he's been making much progress, but familiarizing himself with the collection is at least something. And the system of organization. Which is... Something else.

He turns toward the sound of the falling tome, his eyebrows rising slightly as he watches the failed attempt at magic, lips quirking slightly at the continued muttering to follow. If the other man's silks had not identified him as a new arrival, that gesture certainly had done.

"From what I understand, it may take some time before a person's abilities return in this place," Lord John offers, stepping forward to pick a book up off the pile the other man had set down. His smile softens slightly as he continues, "I would not be too discouraged. Even if you are meanwhile relegated to doing this work the hard way like the rest of us."

[karsiteweave]

Gale chuckles, low and dark, and offers John a wry smile.

"Oh, I am no stranger to hard work."

It's just... frustrating. Being forced to start from scratch, again and again. The fear that everything will not come back, that he will each time recede until one day his ability to manipulate the weave fails him entirely.

He still cannot be sure that time isn't now.

"Organising tomes by hand is not such an onerous task as all that, I think it can be managed regardless. Especially now I appear to have an assistant aiding me in cataloguing my share of the collection. To whom do I owe my thanks?"

Introductions are a much more pleasant thing to focus on than his failure to cast a basic cantrip.

[iustise]

Lord John feels for the other man's frustration, even if he does not quite understand it. John also had to start from scratch, learning magic here in this place. The only difference is that he had never known it to start. Which is worse? Having something taken from you and having to learn to walk all over again, or never knowing in the first and being made to feel like even more like an infant in this strange new world? John cannot say for certain.

An assistant. He flashes the other man another smile at that, before pressing a hand to his chest and offering a small, polite bow. Thoroughly correct in all its measure. If John's introduction weren't about to out him as a member of nobility, his manners certainly would do.

"Lord John Grey," he introduces, "Your servant, sir." His lips quirk to the side, his humor getting the better of his manners as he adds, "I shall do my best to be your second, although I must confess I have not the slightest notion of their systems. So far I have been mostly succeeding by guess work, I am afraid."

i

[fisherwife]

"I apologize," are the first words out of Mipha's mouth, her voice soft and her smile softer. "The door was opened a little, and I heard a voice. I'm afraid my curiosity got the better of me."

He definitely looks...tired, she supposes would be the word, and Mipha tilts her head in concern. She hesitates a moment--it can be hit or miss on how people react to her given how she looks-- but she can't not try to help. "I'm pleased to meet you, Mister Gale. Perhaps you should lay down to rest?"

[karsiteweave]

Quite the unusual figure she cuts, but Gale isn't rude enough to do much more than tilt his head curiously. The question catches him off guard. He blinks in surprise, offers a light laugh in reply.

"Oh, don't you worry about me. Little bit of a long morning, but I've seen worse. Not about to collapse out the window over it! Doing so would remove me from my charming new company, after all!"

[fisherwife]

Mipha makes a gesture to...whatever furniture might be in the room that's designed for sitting. There's probably a chair in here somewhere, right? "Then why don't you sit? If you're hurt anywhere, I can take a look at you."

Her powers don't seem to really be working here, but surely she can heal a little something if need be! Hopefully. The flattery does make her smile though and she bows her head politely. "I am Princess Mipha, pleased to meet you. Though such titles hardly mean anything here. I take it you're also one of the new arrivals?"

iii

[aquaveiled]

You are doing it right! Though now I have to ask you about Waterdeep. What sort of water is it? And how deep?

[karsiteweave]

Excellent questions! I do appreciate an inquisitive mind. Waterdeep is the name of a city! The City of Splendors, as it is known! Waterdeep itself is a coastal city, so the water in question is sea water! The city had a few previous names, before it settled on this one, but I believe I am correct in saying that 'Waterdeep' was used by captains who docked there due to the impressive depth of its harbor! I'm afraid I couldn't give you exact figures, but imagine whatever depths are impressive to ship captains!

[aquaveiled]

A City of Splendors! Like the House of Splendors? Do you happen to know a woman named Rowena?

Ahh, so not in the water but by the water. That is a good place to be, especially by the sea. Deep deep water is the best kind of water to have. The fishing there must be amazing!

How the food?

Have you been to the bottom?

i

[unresponsives]

"You're fine."

She's only half-looking at Gale, still a little distracted by the strange sight of the weather -- horizontal lightning? -- so it takes a moment for his words to really settle.

Which then makes her frown slightly, taking half a step backwards.

"Though maybe I'm in the wrong the wrong place. I thought they'd directed me here but if these are yours then I'm in the wrong room."

Mildly embarrassing. Unless they're supposed to share. It's been a weird day.

[karsiteweave]

"Ah!" he says, "might I discern you are a new traveller among us too, then? There does appear to be more than one bed here. It looks like we may not warrant the privacy of a room to ourselves, but not to worry! I promise to be quite the well mannered companion -- and, err, there do appear to be little curtains you can draw about should you desire... privacy."

For... whatever reason. He clears his throat, seeming to realise the potential awkwardness of this.

"Your turn, I believe! Who should I say my charming new roommate is?"

[unresponsives]

He was not wrong about it being slightly awkward, though Heather hadn't even looked into the room too much after seeing him to notice that there were two beds. Awkward but that solved one problem.

"Curtains are helpful, though you'd have thought they'd mention the bed situation when they told you where to go."

Maybe they had and there was just too much that she'd been trying to take in for her to take it in.

"Heather. And I'm going to hope in politeness that it's nice to meet you."