TEST DRIVE MEME #18

[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 June.

While the world experienced some severe weather damage, the storms are now over. Newly arrived characters will be assured that repairs are underway, though they may help if they wish. Nocwich was closed for the last 3 months, but is now open once more! On the surface, not much has changed, but observant characters might notice some increased tension between the werewolves and the vampires.

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. With summer around the corner, the weather is warm and marked by a cool breeze. In the distance, the snow has melted from the mountains. Spring flowers are in full 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:

• The city of Castle Thorne is largely safe and the main roads are clear, but debris and fallen trees are still a danger if you stray too far towards any off-beaten trails. Nott is especially chaotic. The cleanup and repairs in town are going a little slower than they are in the royal city.


• 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 he was previously in Nott to oversee a project, he's now moved to the city of Castle Thorne with his family: Lady Lia Sidwell and his two young sons. They live in a manor near the castle.

◎ Exploring

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

Cupcake Decorating
Noteworthy participants in the Blossom Cake Festival are given the honor of having their cakes displayed in the castle. You can have a slice of this year's winning creation, filled with rich bold notes of tangy orange and vanilla cream. Also available are an equally impressive lavender cake feature and a lemon honey cake. The champion pastry chef will be there to give decorating lessons. Why not join someone and pipe some flowers on a cupcake? Even if it doesn't turn out like you hoped, you can eat it afterwards!

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 wind spell that can cast a cooling breeze over you. Perfect for when the weather gets warm! 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 gust of wind slamming doors and windows as the spells fail. It isn't dangerous, but it can be annoying.

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 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 territory's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other territories, 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, day trips to Nott or Borrel via portal are allowed, or you can visit Nocwich. Don't try to sneak away for good - 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, and growing hotter by the day as summer approaches. Though temperatures dip at night, they don't drop as low as they did in the winter. 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:

• Heavy flooding and powerful sandstorms have damaged structures in the Free Cities. While repairs are underway, some roads are closed and you might have to avoid dangerous debris when traveling. Watch your step!


• Soldiers continue to patrol the streets, keeping order as citizens begin to settle back into their normal lives in the aftermath of the storms. Theft has become a bit of a larger problem, given the damage to some shops and merchant stalls.


• 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.

Art Workshops
In the continuing spirit of Aquila's Form Over Function festival, where designers show off works that emphasize beauty over utility, free workshops have been set up throughout the Free Cities. These workshops are meant to market wares as well as encourage creative minds. You can attend a workshop on writing with one of Libertas' famous playwrights and get a brief lesson in the art of color theory to aid you in your future as a painter or clothing designer. Why not join a friend in the workshops? Or make some new ones!

Scrappy Salvagers
To help with the cleanup, salvage artist Axn Kade has offered a modest sum to anyone who will bring him scraps of metal. Despite his good intentions, this proposal has unfortunately resulted in small but fierce pockets of fighting over scraps gathered, especially among the vagrants and orphans. Some have even gone into dangerous areas to collect what they can. City guards could desperately use a hand to break up fights and rescue anyone who's gotten trapped under fallen debris.

Traveling Merchants
Word of new arrivals spread quickly to enterprising merchants. Many will arrive with samples of their wares, offering free things to try. These items include miniature pastries, trinkets powered by New Magic similar to those cheap flashing toys one find at a carnival, ales, fresh fruits, and healing elixirs. Not all of the elixirs are of proper quality. Some are akin to snake oil and might have adverse (though harmless) effects - take care not to accidentally turn your hair bright green or similar. All of the merchants will be gathered at a central point in the barracks so they'll be hard to miss. Maybe you can make a friend or two while perusing.

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 territory's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other territories, 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 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 summer on the way, the light wind is refreshing and the rain is warm when it falls. 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:

• Heavy flooding and powerful twisters have damaged structures around the settlements. While repairs are underway, some roads are closed and you might have to avoid dangerous debris when traveling. Watch your step!


• Some shops and stalls have yet to reopen. 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 is also beginning to return to normal, but many fishing boats need repairs. 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.

Goat Racing
That's right. One of Solvunn's fine traditions is its regular goat races. Meant to be a bit of informal fun, there's a pen of goats where you can choose a goat, get a number, and simply join one of the starting lines. These goats are not trained so the race is less of a race and more pure chaos as the goats do what they please. Whoever eventually wrangles their goat over the finish line wins. The only rule is that you can't pick up or physically pull your goat, but you're free to cajole, lure, or even use a bit of magic to get yours to the finish line first. Winners receive small prizes of cheese, ale, wood charms, woven baskets, and other similar tokens.

Shrine Offerings
As a new arrival, you'll be encouraged to perform your first offering. Solvunn believes offerings in the tradition of High Magic will ensure continued protection from the Gods. 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.

Giant Crop Picnic
Potluck-style feasts are common in the settlement as a way to strengthen the community, but the spring is unique for featuring giant crops. Oversized gourds, melons, and cauliflower are aplenty as the locals display their creations proudly. Considered a blessing from the gods, receiving the boon of a large crop is a great source of luck and pride to Solvunn. As a new arrival, you can take a look at these unique fruits and vegetables - and eat them! - as well as help hang decorations before the picnic. Place flowers, pin ribbons, or lay the tablecloths. The food is simple and hearty, ranging from stews, roasts, fresh bread, and puddings. If you're shy, someone will be there to fill your cups and plates if you won't do so yourself. Eat, drink, and be merry - it's what the gods would want.

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 territory's portals. Once there, you're welcome to meet those from other territories, 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 & 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

Clean-up

[blackeyedprince]

"Here? Here is nothing. There are a few places that got hit a lot worse."

How does he always get roped into some kind of menial work? A mystery. Quite unlike himself, Kell doesn't immediately turn to magic when confronted with physical work. His comment gets him a few pointed stares from the other men clearing the debris pile. He shrugs them off. He just got back from Nott, he's seen worse.

"The same as everywhere else. Storms. Singularity throwing a fit. Take your pick."

She reminds him Yennefer a little. As if his teacher would ever allow herself be caught doing such dirty work.

nocwich

[monomachy]

[Being back in Nocwich is such a relief. Though she can feel a line of tension in the air, she is glad to be back among these friendly, practical people. It has only been a few months since the Summoned were last welcomed in Oleuni Square, but it feels much longer--not least of all because of the strange experience most of the Summoned had recently endured. Even Diana, who has already been alive for so long, is having a little bit of a hard time keeping it all straight in her head.

The market is as busy as ever, and Diana is content to meander, perusing stalls and offering smiles (but few words) to familiar faces. She can tell that small talk isn't welcome at the moment, and she isn't going to force it. She's just happy to be here at all.

As it often does in the face of disaster, time seems to slow for Diana as she turns her head and sees the man about to collide with a woman carrying too many ceramic jugs of wine in her arms. They cannot see one another--him, because he looks overwhelmed by the crowd and her, because she's too focused on the burden she carries in her arms--and a collision is inevitable. Even Diana, with all her godlike speed, cannot make it there in time to prevent the strike. So it is that the jugs break, the wine spills, and everything is even more chaotic than it was a moment ago.

Were it not for the man's obvious distress, she might have smiled at the familiar sight.

Instead, she's crouched beside him between one blink and the next, reaching for the pieces of the jug that seem sharpest. It might cut her still, but she would heal in minutes. Not so, for him. She's dressed simply, similar to the majority of the people bustling around them, but she neither sounds nor really looks like them, otherwise.]

It's alright. [Her voice is calm, soothing. Not condescending at the accident, but confident that it will cause no lasting harm. She continues reaching for pieces of shattered pottery, placing them in the wicker basket as if it's the most natural thing in the world.] Are either of you hurt? [She looks up to the woman (also soaked in red wine) as she speaks, then back down to him.]

wildcarding

[shaltnot]

[ There's a lot of things he couldn't have expected to see in Cadens. There were definitely parts of it that resembled No Man's Land more than not--the heat, the sand, the military presence and clear hoarding of valuable resources by those who Have from those who Have Not--but similarities aren't direct copies and that is precisely what Nicholas D. Wolfwood is not looking for on that particular evening.

It's been a couple of days and he has mostly been bumming it, trying to get a lay of the land to figure out his next move. He doesn't exactly want to be here, but it isn't like he was having a grand old time there, either. Still...there are responsibilities he has. And if shit hadn't hit the fan in the most spectacular way before he ended up in that pool--

--well. There'd be a lot less to bother himself with.

The Sarstina has been the friendliest thus far so he makes his way back to the same old tavern with the intent to refuel with beer or a shot with the coin he's earned before seeing who would be willing to loosen their purse straps a little for him. He slides into an old chair with a heavy sigh and scans the area, trying to decide if he should just go up to the bar or wave someone over when he sees a familiar head of blonde hair that makes him do a double-take. ]

...No fuckin' way.

[ There's absolutely no way--

Nicholas is up like a shot, losing the lazy languidness of his actions when he strolled in and is up in the other man's business before someone can tell him that's not how you greet people. ]

You!

salvagers!

[godshattering]

[ The cleanup efforts have been helpful to focus on - not just for being able to help but as a distraction after recent events. With everything they'd just been through it's far easier to take some time to focus on repairing the damage around the cities. Like right now, where Claude's paused in nailing up some boards over broken windows to gratefully accept some water offered by the merchant who'd requested assistance.

It's while pausing to drag a forearm over his forehead Claude turns and sees one of the kids he's come to know running up to him. There's just barely enough time for him to understand it's not to plead to join a game going on somewhere but that it's distress on the child's face. ]

Hey, what's--

[ No time for him to ask what's wrong before there's a rushed terrified stream of words about a playmate being trapped beneath something, and that's all he needs to hear before following as they run through the streets. By the time they make it to the collapsed structure, Claude's relieved to see there's someone else here. He's less relieved to realize he recognizes the building from past repairs, however. ]

Careful! This thing's far from sturdy. [ Something likely clear from the wreckage around, and after a quick appraisal Claude spots a beam they might be able to move away to get to whoever's inside without knocking the right down. He grabs onto it to test if they'll need someone else's assistance yet, like possibly the guards he'd sprinted by on the way here, but he makes eye contact with his fellow Summoned first to nod as a substitute for an introduction. ] On the count of three?

[shaltnot]

[ Nicholas glances over his shoulder for a split second only to do it once more to give the woman addressing him a little more of his attention. Yeah, she's definitely an outsider too, but from what he understand unless you're decidedly not human you probably are. And she looks fairly human at first glance.

(But hey, he of all people should know better than to judge a book by it's cover. You never know what horrors lurk beneath the service.)

Still, he's got a point, he thinks. And despite himself, he does find he hesitates a bit as he holds the petal, like damaging it is somehow a greater crime than all he's committed before then. This kind of thing isn't a hot commodity here, he has to remind himself. ]

Just look at it.

[ Rather than take the petal, Nicholas ops for one of the leaves and plucks it clean off the stem. ]

A kid could take this apart without even thinking about it. How's something like this supposed to make it?

sarstina.

[gynvael]

[ Geralt is not a frequent patron of the Sarstina; the faces there are friendly, familiar. Not that he minds when that's what he's after—he does, on occasion, enjoy the company of friends—but that isn't always the case, and more often than not, he prefers to be alone.

In a rare occurrence, he has his sword sheathed on his back, blood under his nails. Despite the early morning hour, he's already been up and hunting, taking advantage of the cooler nights to do his work before the sun heats up the desert. He's hungry after riding back, hasn't had time to make a meal, and with coin to spare (there's often coin to spare these days), he decides he may as well make a quick stop at the nearest tavern.

Which happens to be Mag's.

When the man looks up from behind the counter, Geralt stops short. His brows draw together. (He'd remember that smile anywhere.) ] Vash?

Hypnos | Hades | still debating between thorne and solvunn | The Sun

[haveyoutriednotdying]

i. Thorne - Exploring - Painting Session

So far, this whole dimension-hopping thing isn't so bad! The amenities are pretty good, most people have been nice to him, and now he gets to paint! Hypnos started out following along with the instructor (and doing a surprisingly good job at that) until he lost focus.

He's not frustrated, though-- in fact, his expression is downright dreamy as he paints little figures onto the ship. One is very clearly himself, as well as a similar looking figure whose clothing-blob is colored dark rather than bright red. And the one with spiky hair and two different colored eyes might be familiar?

ii. Solvunn - Exploring - Shrine Offerings

It should seem strange, to give offerings to another land's Gods... but after a few nights, it was clear Mother Nyx couldn't hear him here (or maybe she was still enforcing the No-Talking Rule), so he might as well try to make good with the locals, right? Obviously he's going to hit up the local psychopomp first-- Death is literally his twin, they're practically connected already!

He's got his offering -- a bouquet of poppies, grown from and blessed with his own power. Now all he needs is to know where he's going...

"Excuse me, hi! Could you show me to the nearest shrine to, uh-- oh, what did they say her name was... Vagn?"

iii. Nocwich

Hypnos sees no reason to wander from the marketplace, especially when there's free entertainment! Of course, if he falls asleep in the audience in the middle of a performance, well... that's Hypnos for you.

Of more concern might be if you find him having fallen asleep in the hot springs-- not that it would impact him overly much, being a Chthonic god and all, but you might not know that.

wildcard idk

[hmu at unfroyharper if ya want. hypnos would absolutely Get being in the horizon/building his domain once someone brings him into it, it's basically just his dreamrealm but Smol and other people are there, so he can absolutely wander into ur astral projection house or you can wander into his

edit: hypnos is from before the events of hades ii so he is spoiler free!]

tifa getting COLLECTED

[aquaveiled]

[ Soup is also a fantastic idea and Himeka finds herself nodding readily. Pumpkin soup, both sweet and savory versions...it's not as easy to make them light, but that could be a fun challenge as well. And there is plenty of innards to make both soup and pies several times over. ]

What sort of soups are you thinking?

[ The top of the pumpkin goes to the side. Given the size of the gourd, there's ample room for both women to get their heads nice and...goopy. Not dirty, pleasantly goopy. ]

I do! Whenever I can. So it's hard not to jump at opportunities like this when they come up. What about you?

[emulsions]

[ Fifth time's the charm, as they do not, in fact, say anywhere. Carmy blinks, scratches at the nick just above his eyebrow, and clears his throat. The guy in front of him both looks and sounds like a normal dude, maybe someone who might've popped into the Beef for a sandwich, and it makes the buzzing in his head go quieter. ]

No. No, no, I'm— [ He looks at the cake, then back. Is he in the way? He's in the way. Carmy shuffles over so other people can reach the cake, too. ] It's not the cake. This just happens sometimes.

[ Announced like he's explaining that sometimes, his hair just sticks up funny. (It does that, also.) ]

It's, uh, it's actually a nice cake. Did you get some?

[erosive]

Thankfully, no one Zoya happens to know from home is around, or she'd cross her arms and pretend she was giving the orders. (Appearances are important! She can't be seen going soft.) However, she does stop assisting for a moment. She can return to helping later; talking to someone who may be able to provide further clarity on… anything is the priority.

She doesn't need to ask anything further about storms. Zoya's seen firsthand what damage they can do; she's been the conductor of many of them, after all. But the mention of this Singularity is one she can't pass up.

Noting the men's reaction to him, she ignores them for now. They've been kind enough, but none have been particularly forthcoming.

"Does this Singularity throw a lot of fits?"

[emulsions]

[ Carmy doesn't think to explain where he wants the cupcakes to go. Normally, he would, normally he'd have a system and a plan in his mind, but this isn't his kitchen, he's not even in a goddamn kitchen, he's in a banquet hall with a bunch of people in full fucking Ren Faire robes and shit (hell, they've got him wearing that stuff, too), so he's a little (a lot) scattered.

It's not until the man speaks up that Carmy looks at him and takes him in.

Parcels. Yeah. Okay, he hears that, and it's a no, he doesn't think these need to be delivered anywhere, but that's not what comes out of his mouth.

He stirs the frosting. It's not as airy as he'd like. ] You have a lizard in your bag.

[ Why is there a lizard in the bag. Is he seeing things? Is that real? ]

[suplexer]

[ Tifa moves over and joins him in a crouch, since it doesn't seem like the guy wants to leave the flowers any time soon. They were rare in the slums, so she gets it; he might come from a place where this sort of natural growth isn't the norm.

(Since... apparently not everyone summoned here is from Gaia? They come from other places too? That's a doozy she's still working through.)

She watches as he yanks at the stem, and nods, following his point. But... ]

I don't know. I think they're sturdier than they look. They can come back from a lot.

[ She pauses for a moment. A petal can still get torn up by someone thoughtless in a second. Just like Gaia is being drained by those who don't understand (or care) that what it provides is a limited resource. Even Bugenhagen hadn't wanted to believe them at first. ]

But it's also about respect, right? People teach their kids that some things need to be treated with care.

1. THORNE: CLEAN-UP.

[parce]

Nikolai knows that voice. He's heard it before in another place, in another time. And he hadn't known that she'd, somehow, arrived here. Which was ridiculous because Zoya tends to make herself very known.

He's standing a few feet away, blinking at her before he decides to go over.

"We've been having some bad weather lately," he says as he approaches, wondering if she'd recognize him. He's learned that people come from different times and maybe she was a time before him.

Wouldn't that be a travesty, though?

they'll be unstoppable

[suplexer]

Hmm...

[ It's not like Tifa has thought that hard about it. She was informed by one of the children that there was a feast tonight and then dragged over and put to work, more or less. But now that she and this woman with the horns are making conversation, she can take a moment to consider.

As surreal as this entire situation still is for her, she can't help but be polite. ]

Pumpkin can stand up pretty well on its own. It's hearty that way. So I don't think I'd over-complicate it. The seeds can be roasted too, so that would make for good garnish.

[ As she speaks, she moves to stand on the bench of the table, seeing no other way to get the height she needs to get her hands into this massive gourd. Without further ado, she extends both arms in, ready to start scooping out all of the innards two handfuls at a time.

She drops her first handful onto the table next to the pumpkin and then glances back to the woman. ]

... Well, I do like to cook, but to be honest, I pretty much just got here. It all still feels like some kind of super-realistic dream.

[princeofruin]

[He shall continue holding them, then, finally dragging his gaze up from the carefully petalled creations. The attention to detail is something to be admired; every petal has been separated, but joined carefully.

It reminds Dion of some of the more ambitious creations he once saw at his father's banquets, rare as they were.

The thought of his father, even as a memory, feels as if it is centuries away. He realizes he'd forgotten him entirely. He can simultaneously recall his face, and yet forget it completely.]

A dragon. [He responds, having made the correction many times before. She opens her mouth to show her teeth, as if to prove the point. In truth, she is attempting to reach for one of the cupcakes with her very long neck, balancing by extending her wings. He should indulge her before she makes a mess of it all.] May I have one?

wild being the operative word

[boltaction]

[ mag has put vash to work wiping down tables and handling drink refills for the night. it's easy busy work, and he's even (surprisingly) had a few coins tossed his way for his troubles.

he's been in cadens for the better park of a week by now, which means he's started remembering the sarstina's regulars by face and name. he spends most nights, on and off the clock, making friendly conversation with them while also gently plying for information. the bars on no man's land were a treasure trove of salient gossip, and here's proved no different.

vash has just dropped off a pair of beers, tucking the carrying tray under his arm, and nearly knocks skulls with the person suddenly in his space. he takes an instinctive step back, already reflexively lifting a spread hand in a show of nonaggression. he opens his mouth to stammer m-me?, only for the reply to promptly die in his throat when his brain catches up with what his eyes are seeing. who they're seeing.

vash's sheepish look morphs into a cocktail of shock, mild horror, and-- selfishly-- relief. ]

... Wolfwood?

[erosive]

Zoya knows instantly her knee-jerk thought is wrong.

Thank the Saints, I'm not alone.

No, Nikolai should be in Ravka, dealing with the so-called 'Blight' and the return of the wretched Darkling after everything they'd endured with Elizaveta's thorn wood and sap. But Zoya is known to be a selfish creature, and she finds the storm that's been quietly brewing within her since she arrived here has finally, even if temporarily, quieted at the sound of his voice.

But there's always a chance he's merely that: a voice inside her head. After all, she's plagued now with her own, a very old Saint's, and a fucking dragon's. (And hasn't she spent the last several days here asking herself, "What would Nikolai do?" among her questions of Genya's actions, Tamar's, and even Tolya's?)

Ignoring the clean-up, she turns to Nikolai with an unquestionable sense of familiarity, quietly grateful that he is here, not a voice in her head like Juris. Tilting her chin upward, she smiles at him a touch haughtily. "Isn't it a good thing I'm here then?" Who else can tame the weather better than Sankta Zoya of the Storms?

03-a

[erosive]

[ One of Zoya's secret interests is flowers, but it's not the flowers that make her pause near the flower shop. It's the man rubbing a petal between his thumb and forefinger, an act that isn't suspect until he speaks. ]

If they were weak, they'd break beneath your touch.

[ Instead, the petals remain strong, even if a little worn by his handling. They don't turn to grains.

She steps closer until she's beside him and brushes her fingertips gently beneath the leaves of one of the many flowers in the stall. Looking at the flowers he's chosen - ]

Have you smelt them? It's a gardenia; you might find yourself surprised by how strong their scent is.

[emulsions]

[ A—a what? A dragon? Oh, right, of course it's a fucking dragon, how could he ever mistake it for a lizard? He'd sling some accusations about fucking with the new guy, but apparently, it's got wings, so. Yeah.

Guess that's a dragon.

The stranger's still holding the tray. Carmy glances around, then quickly clears some space on the next table over. ] Just put them there.

[ He pauses. Sure. Yeah, okay. Why not? He spends a second to find a small plate and a fork, then carefully puts one of the cupcakes in the center of said plate. He wipes a bit of buttercream off the edge. It doesn't need to be plated. He's doing it, anyway.

He holds out the plate. ]

Can I ask why you've got a dragon?

[boltaction]

[ vash locks eyes with claude when he comes running, eyes briefly flickering to the wet-faced child in tow. ]

Right. I just need enough space to get my arms in-- if they're not pinned, I can get them out.

[ he spares a moment for the kid that had brought claude here in the first place, crouching to their level. his smile is soft. ]

Your friend is going to be just fine. Thank you for getting help.

[ he looks up right when claude looks his way again, claude's hands already braced on a fallen support beam. vash stands and joins him, making sure his grip is secure before nodding. ]

On three. One... two... three!

[ vash locks his knees and heaves, the rubble groaning as he and claude shift the pillar carefully out of the way. claude's appraisal was spot-on; the half-fallen structure has held. once the shaft is clear, vash drops it onto the packed dirt, and goes prone on his belly to get his head and upper torso into the clearing made in the snarled wreck. he's clearly not a man concerned for his own safety. he hadn't even hesitated.

he can see the child from here-- a little girl caked in mud and sand. ]

Are you stuck? Take my hands.

GRABBY HANDS

[boltaction]

[ it takes vash a moment; memories of bath houses and snow-covered peaks prickle hot and cold in his memory. he remembers now that the witcher had told him he'd lived in the free cities. but vash hadn't thought to go looking for anyone he might've known-- after all, there'd been no guarantees the remembrance went both ways.

it seems he wouldn't have to worry about that with geralt. ]

Geralt?

[ he carefully sets down the pot of coffee on the countertop. what does someone even say in a situation like this? abraxas had disappeared from his mind when he'd returned home, only for it (and everything that'd happened) to reappear with all the grace of lead buckshot the moment he'd been re-summoned.

because it's geralt, vash skips over the pleasantries and goes right for the question that'd been burning like a hot coal in his stomach: ]

How... long have I been gone?

[philancer]

Yeah, I just want to get a drink or three in your first, before you decide storming out and starting up another resistance is a good idea.

[ He knows how you work, sir. He's not taking his chances here. ]

Personally, I think they made a mistake in Summoning most of us. They have an uncommon amount of soldiers and fighters they've pulled in here, many of us who have been involved in wars of our own back home. But all of us are just as unlikely to fight for a cause we don't believe in, so they've somewhat shot themselves in the foot, really.

[parce]

"I don't even know if you can control the weather in this place."

He says it mildly before he makes his way over to her. She seems to recognize him so that's good but he's still wary, cautious. The wound on his chest throbs and he has to fight the urge to cover it with a hand.

"When did you get here?" he asks, sounding almost breathless. "You've been put in Thorne?"

[swordofajerk]

Please, that was all Byleth's idea.

[As most things are. Still, Sylvain is valid.]

So I take it this "summoning" isn't working out as well as they'd hoped.

😭❤️

[gynvael]

[ A split second of uncertainty blooms between them. Geralt, too, has encountered those returned who do not recognize him. Then Vash says his name, and he takes a step forward. He slides the sheath off his shoulder, resting it by his feet against the counter.

Seeing an old face is often complicated. They didn't ask to be here, but he can't deny he's glad to have Vash's company returned.

How long. A fraught question when he bears eight hundred years in his head of things that did and did not happen. ]

You vanished last summer.

[ So edging towards a year. He had not thought he'd see Vash again. Certainly not here in the Free Cities. It isn't the first one of them has been summoned to another territory—but it is rare. Rarer than even one's return. Much has changed since. And though Geralt is still here, not everyone is. ]