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

tifa lockhart | final fantasy vii | solvunn | the empress

[suplexer]

solvunn; after the storm

[ Tifa feels as if she's in a daze.

One moment she'd been in bed in a kitschy hotel, having done her best to prepare herself for the challenges ahead. Then she was in some sort of dark pool, the sensation of being trapped under the surface just a little too close to recent events. When pulled from the water, she would have expected to see the face of a friend, whether it was Barret looking concerned, Aerith doing her best to laugh things off in relief, or Cloud intensely staring her down as he asked her if she was really okay.

Instead, she'd found herself in a place she's never heard of, with people speaking both to her and about her as if she's some gift from the Gods. Oh, and she'd been completely naked on top of it.

She's now dressed, dry, and has had the situation explained to her, but that doesn't mean she's any less dazed. She's opted to take a walk around the settlement mainly just to clear her head and get some fresh air, but she still wants to hope this is some kind of incredibly vivid dream.

Where are her friends? What about everything they still need to do? Is this some part of Gaia she's never heard of, and even if that is the case, how did she get here? She's learned by now that the Planet is capable of some truly incredible things, but Solvunn doesn't exist on any map she's studied. (And by now, given their journey, she's studied quite a few.)

Still, it also feels so real. People stare at her when she walks past, nervously excited, almost starstruck, and it's kind of uncomfortable. She's been stared at before, but not like this.

She can also see that this village has suffered some hard times, with how almost all of the buildings have been dealt some sort of damage. All those little details make it feel like this is way more than a dream, but that doesn't mean she can make any sense of it.

Yet as soon as she realizes that the thatched roof of a nearby house is collapsing, the packed and layered straw sliding off of the slanted support beams right toward where a child is playing on the dirt road, Tifa reacts without thinking; she dashes forward to grab the boy in a tackle and whisk him out of the way before the debris crashes down on his head. She lands hard on her side and tucks in to make sure that the boy isn't hurt at all, skidding a few feet away from where the roof collapses into a messy pile. ]

Phew. [ She takes a few moments to catch her breath, and releases the child, who stares at her with wide eyes. ] Are you all right?

[ The boy nods mutely, then runs off, probably to go find one of his parents. Tifa takes another deep breath and sits up, then realizes someone else nearby had seen the whole thing. ] Sorry, umm — I hope that wasn't your house...

solvunn; giant crop picnic

[ A couple of days have passed now, at least long enough for Tifa to realize that no one here knows a thing about her home and that there's a good chance she's stuck here for a while. She hasn't quite accepted that this might be her life for now, not when there's so much undone back home, but she's been assured that time won't pass while she's here.

As much as she'd like to take that as a ressurance, she really can't. Not when there are so many people back home who are counting on her.

Still, what can she do except try to adjust to this new situation for now? When it's made clear that there's going to be a village feast, she's quickly roped in, and at least this is something she knows how to do. Seventh Heaven's popularity was partly to do with the alcohol, sure, but a big draw was also her cooking.

On the other hand, she's never seen crops quite like this. When a giant pumpkin is set down on one of the outdoor work tables, her eyes go wide, but then her face hardens with determination. She pushes her sleeves up to her elbows, and nods to the other person across from her. ]

Pulling the guts out of this is probably a two-person job. You in?

[ Or, later, when the food is all made and everyone's been served up a plate, she finally takes a serving for herself and finds a spot to sit and eat. She's been working most of the afternoon and that's reason enough to be tired, but the look on her face as she stares off is even more distant than that. When she realizes at a delay that someone's come to sit with her, she blinks a few times and glances to them. ] How's everything tasting? [ That customer service line finds its way out of her mouth before she can even think better of it. ]

nocwich; oleuni square

[ As soon as Tifa heard that there was another part of Abraxas that she would be allowed to explore, she'd naturally been interested. She's learned by now that there's a chance that her friends might have been summoned here too, by one of two other territories. The only way she would be able to find out for sure is by taking a portal to a place of eternal night called Nocwich.

Stepping through the portal is a disorienting process, but it's not like she hasn't been through some pretty surreal things in the past, so she isn't thrown off for too long. Still, she wasn't lied to — even if it's the middle of the day right now, it may as well be the dead of night.

She's heard about vampires and werewolves too, and while at one point she might have insisted those were just fairytales, she's seen a lot in the past month or so. Maybe not those exact things, but... close enough.

Either way, she's methodical in how she explores all of Oleuni Square. It's clear that she isn't here to see the sights so much as she's on the lookout for familiar faces. She doesn't linger in any one place for long; it's not like she has any money to her name, anyway, because apparently that's not a thing in Solvunn.

So whether she's scanning the chairs set up near the main stage, walking through the marketplace, or poking her head into the gambling den or spa area, she's quite noticeably looking for someone. Someones, really.

Eventually she ends up near the entrance to the hunting woods, tapping her foot in contemplation as she crosses her arms over her chest. She mumbles to herself. ] Would any of them have gone in? I guess Cloud might have...

( OOC: I did my best to avoid any specific Rebirth spoilers in this top level, but they will show up in replies unless you request that I avoid them — which I'm happy to do, just let me know! Her canonpoint is middle of chapter 12. )

after the storm

[retribue]

( the hours since arriving had been confusing, though elisabeth had tried to find uses in that time, distract herself from that lack of knowing and make herself a little more trusted by the people here. a helping hand helped to do that, people talking and answering questions as she helped move debris, carry items and deliver food.

it's how she finds the woman here, saving a boy as she's moving to another house to find a use, a warm smile given in return to her )

It isn't, no. ( though an unfortunate casualty for someone else. and, realising now, that when it becomes late she also won't have anywhere to stay )

That boy was fortunate that you were there.

[suplexer]

[ The boy is gone in a flash, disappearing around a corner, and Tifa doesn't blame him. He was probably scared and didn't want to burst into tears around a stranger. The people here seem to take care of their own, so she's pretty sure he'll be all right for now.

Which leaves her and this stranger. She doesn't recognize the accent, and it throws her off for just a second as she pushes to her feet and dusts herself off. She shrugs at the comment, not the sort to toot her own horn. ]

Well, it was just some thatched roofing. He probably would have just been a little shaken up and in need of a bath, but...

[ Better to avoid that, right?

Tifa glances from the woman down to the mess on the ground, then up to the portion of the house's roof that's now completely ruined. ]

It doesn't look like the people who live here are around right now. I wonder if I should try to fix it... Or, maybe you know who they are?

[retribue]

( elisabeth nods as if she knows anything about roofing. she doesn't. but that's not the important part )

I don't know who they are, though finding out who they are sounds a sensible first step. They may wish their roof repaired in some other way.

( and did they even know what they were doing? )

We could take a walk, ask about them?

[suplexer]

[ Tifa also doesn't know all that much about roofing, certainly not enough to be an expert. She'd done some simple repairs back in the slums because there usually wasn't a convenient handyman hanging around to help out with that kind of thing, but this feels pretty out of her wheelhouse.

She's a lot more used to dealing with corrugated metal, for better or worse... ]

You're right, that makes the most sense.

[ As much as she'd wanted to have some time to herself to let this entire situation sink in, the invitation causes her to brighten and move over to the woman's side. ]

Sorry, I'm... well, kind of new around here. I guess I was summoned? That's what they called it, anyway.

[retribue]

I've heard the same words used myself.

( she offers out a hand to the woman, a soft smile for her )

Elisabeth. And though we may know as little as each other perhaps it will allow us to learn much still.

i desire the gøurd

[aquaveiled]

[ Where there is food, there is Himeka ready to prepare or consume it--typically both. And the fact that the produce here can be so delightfully large is something she's always appreciated. After all that's happened, something simple and less mind-bendy is a welcome distraction.

So when the other woman addresses her, Himeka grins and nods as she finishes pinning up her own sleeve. ]

This means we'll be able to procure all the best bits for our own creations.

[ She likes to help, sure, but she can be greedy at times too. Her pies...they will reign supreme.

But she's happy to make small talk as they begin. Cutting into the pumpkin itself to give them access is step one and Himeka makes quick work with her knife. ]

A fan of pumpkins?

!!!

[suplexer]

[ The woman who's stepped up to help her (and looks even more ready than Tifa to get elbow-deep into this pumpkin) has some marked differences from everyone else Tifa has seen here. Those horns on either side of her head are definitely a first, and she can't help but spend a few seconds studying them before she focuses in on the task at hand and the question she's been asked. ]

They're pretty versatile, right? I'm guessing you could make a great soup with some of these ingredients.

[ To say nothing of pie. She's no expert in pumpkins specifically, it's not like she often got fresh produce on the ground floor, but she knows good ingredients when she sees them.

She watches as the woman expertly uses a knife to saw open the top of the pumpkin, ready to jump in and help if she runs into any snags — but it looks like she's got this under control. ]

Our own creations, you said? You do a lot of cooking, then?

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?

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.

like t-rexes with plastic grabbers

[aquaveiled]

[ Himeka continues to nod, both in acknowledgment and agreement of the other woman's suggestions. All thoughtful, all valid. There is something beautiful in simplicity and honestly it's been a while since Himeka enjoyed some roasted and lightly salted pumpkin seeds. Mayhaps this will be an opportunity to correct that. ]

Or as a delightful snack on its own.

[ She pulls up a large tray to act as her catch nearby before climbing onto the table itself. ]

Ah, I thought you looked a little new.

[ But that comment is quickly followed up by a smile and a wink. ]

That feeling will fade a bit, but I'd be lying if I said it goes away entirely. It's a lot to take it...so don't push yourself too much.

[ She shoves her hands into the pumpkin as well. ]

What's your name?

oleuni square.

[moonlitmote]

[It is as Melinoë is testing the thrust of the spear she was given (a terrible thing to think she may have preferred the bow at this point) when another voice makes her straighten up. The woman -- a mortal? -- nearby has a length of hair that may have matched even Nem's.

Her mumbled words bring a raised eyebrow to Melinoë's face.]

You're like to not see many clouds tonight, as bare as the moon is. [And as thick as the trees are! Though it is but a sliver of her Sister's full light, Mel is still warmed to see it. To know Selene's grace extends even here, wherever... here is.

Wait. She may have heard incorrectly. She attempts to read the expression pointed her way.] Er... that is not what you meant, is it? Are you looking for something?

[suplexer]

[ Tifa hadn't fully realized there was someone so close, though she quickly turns as soon as she realizes that she'd been addressed. She blinks openly at the sight of the other woman, as there are quite a few notable things about her. The mismatched eyes, whatever is happening with her arm (are those... her bones?), and the flames licking at her feet. All of this is apparently normal for her, since she's acting rather calm, but it's a lot to take in.

(Even for someone who has a lion creature with a flaming tail as a companion.)

Realizing that she's let far too many beats pass between the woman's words and her reaction, Tifa sucks in a sharp breath and shakes her head. ]

I'm... so sorry. My head is still a little all over the place.

[ She probably shouldn't rudely ask about all that, so she's going to just carry on the conversation. ]

I can see why you were confused, though. I'm looking for someone named Cloud, along with my other friends. We were traveling together before... all this.

[ Could it be any more obvious that she's completely out of her element? Oh well. ]

i do as i please

[carmesi]

( it doesn't take long for news to float by wanda, of a newly summoned that saved young joost from some uncertain fate. hours have passed since, though, and the community has already rallied together to finish bringing down the weakened home and working on setting something new the following day.

the boy comes to her, points out the nice lady, and when wanda sits on her haunches, the boy hands over a handful of slightly wilted and bruised flowers—the storms have made trouble for the nature around them, too, especially the blooming flowers and trees.

wanda finds tifa later that evening. the newcomer sits outside the drunken lamb on a bench, seemingly lost in thought. taking a seat beside the younger woman, wanda hands over the small bouquet picked out by joost, the flowers and branches fixed—they look strong and colorful—all thanks to her magic. )

A little boy wanted to give these to you. For saving his life earlier.

( the boy is mute, and his shyness is thus exacerbated by the fact. )

It gets cold at night, too, and there aren't exactly stores in the settlements.

( with that, wanda presents a blue cloak, setting it down on tifa's lap. it's soft, but most importantly, warm. )

heck yeah

[suplexer]

[ Despite her past life as a bartender, Tifa wouldn't call herself a big drinker. If she's having a late night with friends, that's one thing, but it's rare for her to insist she needs a drink, or to drink alone.

This is the exception that proves the rule, as she nurses a mug of ale outside the Drunken Lamb. An entire day has gone by now, with still no sign that this "dream" is going to end. Because it isn't a dream at all, but it also doesn't feel like it could actually be happening to her.

Which is an odd situation to be in, and entirely different from what she experienced when she fell (was pushed) into the Lifestream.

She's jarred from her thoughts when someone comes to join her, and automatically scoots over, understanding that seating is limited here. But then the small bouquet is extended to her, causing her to blink a few times as she processes what's happening. ]

... Oh. [ Carefully, she reaches out to take the bouquet, handling the flowers like the precious things that they are. ] That's very sweet of him. I'm not sure if his life was actually in danger, but... [ It wouldn't have been good either way, if all of that packed straw had fallen on his head.

And then, before she's even processed that, she's given another gift. Tifa's eyes widen at the cloak that's now in her lap before she snaps her gaze back toward this unknown woman. ]

I'm, umm, not sure I can accept this. I don't exactly have anything to barter with, unless you have some chores I could do for you...?

[ She's babbling a little, overwhelmed by the unprompted kindness. ]

[carmesi]

( it'll only be a matter of time before the young woman comes to understand how things work in the commune. it's not about whether his life was actually in danger, or if she's deserving of this much praise for doing what "anyone else would".

every single life in the commune is important, and one injured child will grow into an adult that cannot do the work he is meant to do, and it's just brewing towards future discontent. a good was done, and it has thus been rewarded. )

Of course you can. ( —accept the cloak, that is— ) I'm not a local, anyway. I was summoned like you, so just — see it as something of a welcome gift.

( wanda will not be accepting anything more. )

We look after each other here.

[suplexer]

[ Hearing that this woman is another Summoned does put some of the gesture into context, but it doesn't mean that Tifa was ready for such an unprompted act of kindness. ]

That's... really too kind of you.

[ To her credit, she doesn't try to shove the cloak back at the stranger or anything like that, instead taking a moment to simply appreciate the craftsmanship that was put into it. She runs her fingers over the warm, woven cloth. ]

But I appreciate it. I guess you know what it's like to show up here and not even have a gil to your name.

[ Even the clothes she's wearing now were given to her after she was pulled shivering from that pool of water.

While she doesn't say anything else out loud about it, she quietly promises herself that she will do something to repay the woman's generosity. ]

I'm Tifa. [ She lifts one hand and holds it out. ] Thank you, again.

picnic!

[liches]

[ You could fit a person in some of these gourds. Maybe a smaller person, a gnome or a child or something, but still. The woman across from Tifa may not look like anyone she's used to, with her long ears and blue skin, but she's rolling up her sleeves just the same. ]

Hell yeah, bubeleh, hand me a spoon and let's get digging!

[ The daunting task before them doesn't seem to phase her one bit. ]

[suplexer]

[ It helps that Tifa has met Himeka by now, and she has horns and a tail, so she's better able to take some of the strange physical traits that people have in this place in stride.

Or... maybe it's mainly just fellow Summoned? All the people who are native to Solvunn look more or less like regular humans. ]

Bube... huh? [ Tifa blinks at the word she doesn't know, but picks up a spoon all the same and hands it over to the other woman with her blue skin and pointed ears. ] Hey, thanks for helping out. Have you done this kind of thing before?

[liches]

Sorry, I didn't catch your name before. [ And Lup had to call her something. It's just a term of endearment.

Without any further ado, she starts scooping out gourd guts as she answers Tifa's question. ]

Oh sure, loads of times. I'm a pretty awesome chef when the Raven Queen doesn't need me to blow up some evil fucko. [ It's evident in the way Lup goes about removing the seeds and junk; quick and precise. But there is a lot of it to get through. She looks up as she works. ] How about you?

[suplexer]

[ Oh, so it's just something you call someone? Tifa won't overthink it too much, then. ]

Well, I didn't offer it! I'm Tifa, it's nice to meet you.

[ Even if neither of them should probably be here at all. Like with Elisabeth, she wouldn't wish for anyone to be in this mess with her, but it is also nice to know she's not the only new kid in class.

While she was ready to just pull out the pumpkin guts with her hands, she decides she should follow the other lady's lead and grabs for her own spoon so she can get to work. With them teaming up, this should be done in no time.

Tifa doesn't show any shock at Lup's foul language, although the idea of being sent to blow someone up by a "Raven Queen" is a lot more perplexing. Maybe just because she has no context. ]

Oh, umm! Yeah, I used to own a bar, and we had a food on offer too, so I got pretty comfortable with batch cooking and developing recipes. But... sorry, you said a Raven Queen? Is that someone here in Solvunn?

giant crop picnic!

[vecna]

[Henry is a fastidious sort. Before Abraxas, he would often frown at the idea of getting his hands dirty in the garden, or taking care of goats, or fixing fences. It didn't suit him; nothing like this ever would.

And when he stares down the giant pumpkin sat before them both, its innards expected to be scooped out like it were a dead animal being vivisected, he... feels similarly. But doesn't quite balk as much as he would have. Familiarity can wear even the neatest, cleanest man down, and he says-]

I'm in if you are. But I'd prefer to do this as quickly as possible.

[Which means, perhaps, that he has an idea of how to go about this.]

[suplexer]

[ It's true that this stranger doesn't really look like he belongs here. He's neat, without a speck of dirt or mud anywhere on his clean-cut outfit, and it's hard to imagine him burying his hands into a pumpkin's guts.

But instead of scoffing and saying that he's above this sort of thing, he does agree to help. She'll give him that.

Tifa tilts her head, already grabbing for a serrated knife to saw the top off of the massive gourd. She has to put some elbow grease into it, but it's no trouble for someone who trains her body as much as she does, and soon enough she's got the pumpkin opened up. ]

Well, if we work together we should make pretty short work of it. Unless you had another idea?

[vecna]

[Tifa really there standing with a knife, ready to go.

If nothing else, she seems able. Which is a boon, because if she declines his idea, then at least she can put in the work to get this over with quickly. He cannot imagine how awkward it would be for two people to delve their hands into pumpkin guts and try to haul out the flesh and seeds simultaneously.

(This is the fun part, of course. Henry Creel clearly doesn't see it that way.)]

I thought I'd just scoop it all out with my powers in one go.

[suplexer]

[ Let me direct Henry to two other threads where Tifa is absolutely shoving her hands into the pumpkin with Himeka and Lup—

Tifa is certainly ready to go, and would have already plunged her hands into the pumpkin to start hauling out the seeds and guts if this stranger hadn't given her reason to pause.

She sets the knife and the pumpkin top aside now that she's finished sawing, brow furrowing briefly at the mention of powers. While there's a chance that a spell might be enough to get the job done, she doesn't know that it would be any less messy. Not that there's any Materia here as far as she's found, which must mean that this man's powers are something else entirely.

Like the effects of mako infusion? Or some other terrible experiment, like what was done to Vincent? Tifa fails to see how any of that would be applicable here, and she stares blinking at the man for a few seconds. ]

Your powers? How do you mean?