TEST DRIVE MEME #19

[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 August.

Due to recent events, tensions are high in each territory. There is a strong military presence in both the Free Cities and Thorne.

The upcoming August application round is open to current players only. New players are welcome to participate on the TDM, but will not be able to apply until October's round.

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 in stark modern robes and a large scroll. Two hunting dogs stand by, watching you curiously but politely. The sharply-dressed young looks up from his scroll with a pleased smile.

"There we are." He places a hand at his chest in a short bow. "I am Mace Hemmet, the High Mage of the Kingdom of Thorne, here to cordially welcome you to our nation. You must be surprised, hm? Just calm yourself, I promise we'll explain everything in a moment."

Regardless of your response, he fluidly rolls the scroll back up and motions for one of the young apprentice mages over. "Let's settle our new guest in. New clothes, the works." He snaps his fingers. The dogs perk to attention and follow him out of the room.

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 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 well underway, the weather is hot but relieved by a cool breeze. Summer fruits and 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. Smaller roads are closed.


• 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 as the new King and Queen settle into their roles. Portraits, paintings, and anything associated with the former monarchy has been taken down. The new High Mage, Mace Hemmet, has recently taken over and is determined to do things differently.


• When overlooking the ocean in Borrel, you spot an unusual storm wall that divides the channel and obscures the territory of Solvunn beyond it. If you ask, the soldiers will tell you not to worry and that the storm isn't coming any closer...for now.

◎ Exploring

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

House Hunters
Taking advantage of the disruption in Thorne, two enterprising individuals are eager to restore abandoned estates in the outskirts of Nott and resell them. Whether this is a good business decision is unknown, but they're determined. Unfortunately, a few of their homes are infested with Flamewings. While these birds are rarely seen, disruptions to their migratory patterns have caused them to nest in these buildings instead of their usual habitat in the mountains. You can help remove the birds with a simple enchanted bird-catching pouch. Flamewing Spoonces are friendly and not really on fire, so they're perfectly safe to handle, but like most wild birds, they're prone to pecking, flapping, and releasing their droppings at inopportune times.

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. Here, you can join a paint and wine 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. If you're feeling restless, though, short trips to Nott or Borrel via portal are allowed, or you can visit Nocwich. Besides, 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 Borrel or the city of Castle Thorne. Or, you can do jobs in the castle itself.

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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, the summer sun sweltering at midday. Though temperatures dip slightly at night, it remains quite warm, unlike in 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:

• Medical tents, temporary facilities, and other signs of disarray are evident throughout Cadens and Aquila. Libertas is less hectic, but several theaters and playhouses are boarded up, having shut down permanently. A line snakes out of Portam Hall day and night as citizens await their turn with the government.


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


• 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.

Water Delivery
Due to long lines at Portam Hall in Cadens, volunteers are delivering water to those waiting in the hot sun for hours. You can help do the same. Water can be retrieved at nearby pumping stations or wells, then poured into waterskins or canteens and brought to the thirsty souls. Additionally, the containers need to be collected when the receiver leaves the hall so they can be reused. Most citizens will do the right thing and return them, but a few might try to steal them. Organizers of the water project ask you to be patient if anyone gives you difficulty, and to summon the city guard should things escalate rather than handling it yourself.

Talent Show
To raise much-needed funds, children at an orphanage in Libertas are putting on a talent show for passersby and will insist on your participation if they corner you. They'll cajole you into doing everything from acting in a puppet show portraying grand battles against strange monsters to assisting with dance rehearsals. Be sure to bring your enthusiasm! Naturally, as with all talent shows, there might be a terrible emergency that needs your help. You could find yourself being asked to help with costume problems or to locate missing instruments and props.

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. There is a great deal of new recruits around you this time. The Free Cities has been hard at work filling its ranks.

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. Now in late summer, the weather is moderately hot with fewer rainfalls than the wet spring season. 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:

• A few strings of animal bones decorate and hang among the trees in the forest, while the Tertiary Settlement has an abundance of seashells woven into fishing nets along the shoreline. In the distance, a storm wall hangs like a curtain. Locals assure you this was an act of the Gods and is for their protection. Indeed, the storm isn't causing any trouble. The water on Solvunn's side is calm and sunny.


• 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, repairing broken gates, and exchanging essential goods.


• Fishermen in the Tertiary Settlement are thriving since the arrival of the God who created the storm wall. Extra fish means you'll likely be offered jars of pickled herring, fresh cod, and plenty of shrimp to feast on.


• An offering bowl has been placed out in dedication to Winifred Bordeaux, who recently sacrificed herself for the good of the commune. It can be found in the woods next to Vagn's shrine, the Guardian of Last Passage.

◎ 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. On occasion, one of the goats may stare at you or lift its hoof, as though it intends to make a knocking gesture before returning to its goat-like ways.

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 woods are mostly safe, 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.

Evening Feast
Potluck-style feasts are common in the settlement as a way to strengthen the community. Feasts throughout this week are held in honor of Winifred Bordeaux, former Head of the Council who made a powerful sacrifice. You'll be invited to join in one of these feasts at any time, held outdoors in a lush grove filled with wildflowers. As a new arrival, you won't be expected to bring anything yourself but you'll make a better impression if you do so even if it's merely a few apples you picked in the morning. Want to help hang decorations before the feast? Your assistance is more than welcome! 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

Questions

[abraxasmods]

Re: Questions

[the_gentleman_pyrate]

Hi! Is the TDM from July still open for interaction? I am aware that new players won't be able to apply until October, so I'm just checking to see if I'm free to interact there.

Thanks!

✵ Adora | She-Ra and the Princesses of Power | Strength | Free Cities

[youmiscalculated]

✵ ᴘᴏsᴛ ᴀʀʀɪᴠᴀʟ / sᴇᴛᴛʟɪɴɢ ɪɴ

[ Adora remembers this. The pool, the arrival, the disorienting and not at all thorough explanation of what happened. Abraxas, the Singularity, the creatures she fought. She remembers all of it. What she doesn't recognize is the Free Cities. She lived in a castle last time, she lived with Catra. Until Catra left, and then so did she.

There's another difference this time, too. No She-Ra. Last time, she could summon her power and needed to, more than once, but this time? No sword, no magic she recognizes, no...anything. She can still feel a separate connection, but it isn't to anything First Ones related. It's here, the Singularity, and she remembers the way it reached out to her once.

She keeps to herself at first, undecided if she's going to enlist or not. She isn't afraid of hard work, but she wants to be where she'll do the most good. The last military unit she was in turned out to be pretty terrible, so she's wary. In the room where she's been sleeping with others, she sits heavily on the bed she's claimed, head between her knees as she tries to think.

When someone walks in she looks up, always hoping for someone familiar, fine with being interrupted by anyone. She can be found in the food hall as well, poking at things that aren't recognizable to her (which, to be fair, are most things). Anyone needing a place to sit will find a free seat across from Adora. ]

✵ᴡᴀᴛᴇʀ ᴅᴇʟɪᴠᴇʀʏ

[ Things have gotten worse since the last time she was on Abraxas, and she tries to get caught up to speed while volunteering. It sounds so much like the Horde all over again, which makes her feel like she's here for a purpose. She might not be able to be She-Ra here, but she can still help; she'll never stop helping.

She's been watching someone who seems to be keeping to the outskirts of where the refilled containers are being kept. As soon as this rogue person reaches for a container and slips it into another bag, she decides to follow them with the intent of nicely confronting instead of accusing outright. Adora knows what it's like when resources are scarce, but they all have to work together to live. Stealing can't happen.

But when the thief stops, she watches him pour the water out to a group of older people, filling cups being held with shaky hands. She can't take back the water now. Unfortunately, a guard has no problem with it; he clocked the same action Adora did and moves now to intercept, but Adora steps in front of him, and the argument is on. ]

Just talk to them, he wasn't stealing to hurt anyone!

[ The back and forth continues, with Adora pointing out someone was just trying to help, even if they didn't do it the right way. The guard doesn't seem to want to let up, non-aggressive as he is, so she makes a desperate offer. ]

I'll be the one to get their water from now on. [ She looks for someone to pull into this, making eye contact and jumping on an opportunity as she tries to make a deal. ] You have a witness! I'll be responsible for these people, just don't punish them. Please?

[ Her eyes dart back and forth between the guard and the other person who was minding their business. She's too new to know whether or not the plan will work, but hopefully someone will vouch for her. ]

✵ᴛᴀʟᴇɴᴛ sʜᴏᴡ

[ There has to be room for a little light, that's what Adora's decided. So when she sees the chance to be a little silly, she throws herself into it. She does voices with her puppet, and soon, they're all acting out a great battle that happens to have a powerful warrior at the center. A warrior whose weakness is ketchup and goes down in an epic battle.

She does a wonderful, dramatic puppet death, and when the play is over, keeps the puppet on her hand and interacts with some of the kids. It's a moment that reminds her no matter how bad things are, there are people worth fighting for, and she's looking at them. She winds up doing another impromptu show off to the side, sitting on the ground and having the puppet make silly sounds and make dumb jokes.

When the kids start to scatter for one reason or another, Adora can't help but turn a little pink at having been caught playing, essentially. She should be volunteering, or thinking more about enlisting.]

I couldn't help it. Kids need to be laughing, not scared or worrying about everything that's been happening here.

[ ooc: feel free to fling a wildcard option at me as well! here's some basic Adora info. PM me for plotting or hit me up on plurk at babybananas ]

talent show.

[gynvael]

[ Off to the side, Geralt is watching, arms crossed over his chest as he leans against a mud-bricked wall. With the afternoon sun damn near melting the cobblestone, the children have ducked inside to hold their little theatre display. It consists of puppets and stick swords and a number of threatening jabs. One of the boys is also holding a puppet that's decorated with what seems to be suspiciously realistic wyvern fangs. Geralt may or may not have supplied them with...specific materials. Of the monster variety.

There's a face amongst them, however, that's a older—young, but not as young. Nearly Ciri's age, perhaps. He's quiet throughout performance; one might almost miss him entirely if not for how much space he simply takes up and the stark white of his hair, dusted with sand and dirt.

When the dinner bell sounds and the children rush for their meal, the girl turns towards him. He catches the flush in her cheeks, and his head tilts. Nothing wrong with entertaining the orphans for a bit. ]

Careful. They might insist you become a regular guest.

Water Delivery

[itookashot]

[ Jesper's been busy dealing with his own business woes, although he and Hilda are pivoting magnificently if he does say so himself, but he pops up in some places to help when he needs to. He's already dealt with his business in Portham but the line is long and he's voluntarily handed some water out. He intended to do just one round on the way out but he spots a young blonde woman talking emotionally with one of the guards. A quick glance of gray eyes sums up quickly what's going on and he sighs when she looks at him.]

It's fine, mate. We'll make certain they get put back.

[ Jesper might not be as well-known as someone like Jaskier, but he is at least vaguely known, and the look he gives the guard is very much 'try me.' Try them both, to be honest, but in the end, it's not important enough to actually fight over. As long as someone will bring back the waterskins or canteens at the end of the day, the job will be done.

That confrontation done, Jesper turns his attention back to her when the guard turns away. A quick forward look of gray eyes has him scope her out from top to bottom.]

Everyone's just very tense right now.

wildcard!

[thedreamer]

[ In the loosest sense of the word, the Doctor technically has a small room at the Sarstina Inn in Cadens. For him, at least, it's mostly a place to keep the things he collects, the small projects he might be working on. On the rare occasions he actually rests, he does make use of the bed, but it's very much an afterthought for him. He's too restless, too much of a wanderer, so his "home" is sparse, and at least when he's at the Inn, he's far more comfortable spending time with patrons in the main dining and bar area. Mingling and chatting, getting to know people better. That's the Doctor in his element.

He's been here long enough to recognize faces and to also know when new people start showing up. Or vice versa. Unfortunately with all that's happened recently, some of the regulars have gone, and he takes every loss of a friend seriously.

But it's with a lighter heart that he steps into the Sarstina tonight, feeling at least accomplished with having delivered medical supplies to some of the outposts in the Badlands. Doing something helps to settle him.

He's just about to order soup when he spots a familiar face that stops him in his tracks, though. His eyes narrow a bit as he gets closer, making sure he's seeing her fully. ]

Adora?

Chris Halliwell | Charmed | Solvunn |The Tower

[inferiority_complex]

Arrival

No ill will? Well that was new. At least someone was pleased to see him. You know how it went, one moment your being stabbed by an angel and die while your toddler brother starts down the path of being the biggest, most powerful douchebag ever. Yeah, Chris totally saved the day. Nothing quite like risking literally everything, including his own existence, to change the future, only to watch it happen all over again. And now? Now he was....dead? Pulled into some weirdo fucked up fantasy land by someone who thought he he was important and could help. Chris didn't want to burst this guys bubble by telling him his awesome track record. Chris- 0, World - 2.

Besides all that, Solvunn was giving Chris creepy Up There Heavens vibes. He didn't have to wonder what happened to those who chose not to blend in. He did his best to be unassuming, changing his posture, tucking his head and generally trying not to get stabbed or electrocuted or whatever these lovely people did to those they didn't like. When they realized they might have made a mistake. He squatted down by a string of animal bones hanging from trees, fingering it lightly.

"Some kind of protection charm?" He was sure if had put that up in San Francisco the neighbors would have definitely thought they were nuts. Then again, they probably already did.

Shrine Offerings

This was a lot like the kind of magic he was used too. Creating a magical concoction from ordinary items. It was just the offering part that got to him. The giving it up to another entity more powerful than himself, to put his trust in someone or something else other than himself and his family. Still, Chris supposed if he was going to do this, he could at least use some of the pieces for his own magic, right? He needed to stock up again. He couldn't exactly go to the nearest occult or grocery store to pick up supplies.

Chris raised his hand, ready to fling whatever animal or creature he encountered against the nearest tree, and crush it's heart. Jars, he should have brought some jars. Now he was going to have to make this offering and carry the rest of the carcass back.

"I don't suppose you have a knife or anything?" Maybe he could telekineticly orb it's intestines out?

....Why was his life like this?

Nocwich

Now this was more like it. Chris was used to being underground, finding it easy to navigate the Underworld and befriend its denizens. This Nocwich was no different, except that no one tried to kill him for being part angel. So Chris wandered around, looking utterly at home in the darkness--and while he was super tempted to try and get a piece of a werewolf or vampire for potential vanquishing potions, well, it was a little rude to just attack people. But really, what stopped him was his own lack of supplies. So instead of targeting the nice people of Nocwich, he poked around, looking at herbs and crystals, anything he might be able to use.

"What do you think this is?" Chris held up something he'd never seen before, fingering the item between the pads of his fingers and cocking his head quizzically.


[Will match prose or brackets! Feel free to wildcard at me as well! Hit me up for plotting or questions at caletara ]

[heelies]

Achilles, son of Peleus, had offered himself as companion to any newcomer who wished for his guidance, whether in hunting a fitting sacrifice for the gods or hiking to their shrines to make supplication. He found it strange that this man would strike out on a hunt with no weapons, neither bow nor spear weighing his arm, but realization dawns when Chris kills the deer with nothing more than a stroke of his hand — as do so many of the god-chosen Summoned, this man knows arts that should have been secret to mortals, godcraft.

The son of Peleus answers by unsheathing his knife from the leather sleeve fastened to his belt. He holds it between them, that Chris may accept it if he wishes, or leave the matter to Achilles.

"Have you ever before dressed a deer, separating the good meat and rich fat from bone and sinew?"

shrine offerings.

[durge]

( well. haelva has seen new arrivals struggle in odder way, she supposes, and so she fishes out a bone knife (made from literal sharpened bone) from her clothes, and hands it over without remark. at least about the fact he wants a knife, that is. )

You can offer it whole if you'd rather not butcher it.

( her own offering is made from bones and feathers, tied with herbs most often used in funerary practices. as one does. )

shrine offerings. at last!

[satanicpanics]

[ For a time, Eddie had begun to leave offerings at these shrines in hopes that someone out there could help him figure out his entire “neither truly alive nor truly dead” situation. Offers of his own flavor, of course, typically in the form of a song or performance.

He hasn’t done that in awhile. After what happened a few months back, he’s not so sure he trusts the gods anymore—if he ever truly trusted them to begin with—and he’s decided the only people he can really trust are his fellow Summoned.

So he isn’t intending to stop at this shrine at all, just use its location as one of his many shortcuts back home—when a huge creature (a deer, maybe?) smacks with great force into the tree just to his left. ]

Jesus Christ, dude!

[ He looks just a little startled, eyes wide. ]

Do I have a—yeah, I do, but--you're telling me you need one after all that?

[furibund]

[ Here's the thing: The universe is vast. It's full of different species and capabilities. She's seen rock men, talking ducks, sentient trees. Hell, she knows of stones that can destroy the universe if in the wrong hands and a dog does telepathy (sorry Chris, a dog!). And really... It's not weird to see things. ]

[ She's just unnerved at the idea of herself being expected to put trust in them. She needs some semblance of control and trusting another being is a difficult one - especially ones with her life, when she doesn't already know them. ]

[ Even if she played her part - she won't admit to it - she merely shrugs this particular weirdness off. But the man makes it evident he's not from Solvunn by his mentionings and she cocks her head in turn: ]

It is to them.

[ A shrug. ] But most chose to protect elsewhere, so we'll see if it holds up.

kaveh | genshin impact | free cities

[archiholic]

▸ talent show

( If anyone was expecting Kaveh to put up any amount of resistance when approached about participating in the talent show, for and by children, they'll have been utterly shocked at the way he easily folds. Not that he has a talent to display -- architecture and artistry are not exactly the skills one goes onto a stage for, so he thinks they'll be satisfied with his backstage participation.

They are, he realizes, not.

Which is how Kaveh ends up on stage, attempting to follow through with the choreographed children's dance in a costume that doesn't fit correctly (and yet has a deep v to show off his chest, because the more things change the more they stay the same, apparently, and Kaveh will not argue with the closest thing to his own favored cut he's found here yet) and clashes with his eyes. There is also glitter in his hair, and by the time he is set free from the merciless innocence of orphaned children, he is exhausted. There is still glitter, and it's spread from his hair down to his shoulders and chest -- a fact that is clearly distressing the man. )

I'll be finding glitter all over for weeks. ( He bemoans, exuding the aura of a man who has barely clung to his own sanity while knowing that, ultimately, he is fighting a losing battle. ) This is why I never used it in any of my Akademiya projects back home, it just doesn't go away.

▸ traveling merchants

( Now this is more Kaveh's style! The merchants and temporary marketplace remind him achingly of the Grand Bazar at home, the artistic displays of craftsmanship far more comforting than anything he was likely to find on Treasures Street. And the free items! Kaveh certainly isn't going to turn up his nose on free items.

Which is how Kaveh ends up with his hands full of different pastries, a small cup of ale, a glowing pink tube resting on his head like a crown, and attempting to fend off a particularly demanding merchant. )

No, I really do not need to change my hair color, the slight ombré is a natural effect-- ( He sighs, and that is how Kaveh ends up paying far too much (though he seems unaware of that fact) for a potion designed to keep his hair shiny and thick. ) I suppose it isn't entirely useless, and I do need to start rebuilding my collection of beauty products...

▸ nocwich

( Sure, the fact that vampires and werewolves are apparently not fictional is a lot to swallow. But Kaveh has found himself in an entirely different world where magic is accessible to everyone, there are more than seven gods, and he's expected to be a part of a military organization. Which is to say: more outlandish things have happened to him within the past few weeks that this feels like water off a duck's back. Besides, there's something even more important -- wine. Good wine, and not the bloodwine that seems to be on offer (eugh). Kaveh has very little coin to his name here (a fact which is distressingly normal, given the whole 'different world' thing) but what he does have he is willing to spend on a good drink.

Or two drinks. Or three, actually, because he found a spare coin in a pocket.

Pleasantly flushed, without the threat of someone breathing down his neck about his alcohol intake and his antics while drunk, Kaveh attempts to strike up a conversation with anyone who seems to be willing to give him the time of day. And even those who don't. )

I wonder what the architectural influence of this place is. Someone said it was built for us Summoned, but which-- Luna and Ikorr, was it? Which one had more sway or is it purposefully built as a mix of both styles? I suppose there's no way to find out unless there's a local who helped design this place around, or I'm able to visit both territories...

( He does, in fact, look very serious about the feasibility of the latter option. )

▸ ooc

[ i'm always down for a wildcard thread, or if you want something custom please feel free to hit me up over PM or on plurk tsarcasm! for the canon familiar, kaveh is directly post the 3.6 event, a parade of providence. ]

wildcard. i deserve this, as a treat.

[exuviage]

[ Sitting on the ground in the barest strip of shade of of a shop's awning, away from the foot traffic, is a Teen. He'd come out to make payment and pick up a custom order of, screws or paneling, or filigree wire or something for a new project at the workshop. It's hot outside, yes, but its even hotter inside the shop, and they'd miscalculated the amount of time it would take to make the custom order. "It won't be that long of a wait," they'd said. "Just 20 minutes," they'd said. And here he is, almost thirty minutes later, still on the "maybe it'll be worth it" side of a sunk cost fallacy.

So Dan Heng sits in the least dusty and still shaded patch of ground on the side of the building he can find, knees pulled up to his chest, empty canteen sitting next to him as he waits, staring down at the feet of passerby. The one time he didn't bring a book with him. ]

traveling merchant

[theidlemaiden]

[ After dropping off a couple more costumes and props for the children to use, Hilda had only caught a glimpse of the blonde at the talent show before she'd run off again to get back to the Old Public Hall to help sort out some scheduling for other groups intent on using for their practice space.

There had been no time to stop and chat then with an unfamiliar face, but there is now when there's nothing terribly urgent for her to deal with.

or rather, there's nothing more urgent than trying to save the blonde with very nice hair from ruining said lovely hair. ]

Excuse me - I couldn't help but overhear but, I think it might be worth going back to that stall. They completely overcharged you!

Lucy MacLean | Fallout (Amazon) | Hierophant | Solvunn

[sunnygoose]

☼ POST-ARRIVAL☼

[The last time she was pulled, coughing, choking on water was a lot like this -- her head was spinning, and her heart thumping, wet hair sticking to her face and getting in her mouth -- the difference being that these people greet her with something like charm, her hands and ankles aren't tied together, and she's apparently not on the other end of a little, tiny bit of torture.

Lucy sputters a few times, but to Rowan's credit, she hardly has time to get a word in.

She's pragmatic enough to know she is very much alive -- every inch of her is shivering, her hair still wet, her heart still hammering -- but it's hard not to think she isn't. More than likely, either radiation sickness is gripping her tight into some sort of delusion as she lays somewhere, about to choke on her own saliva, or...

Lucy isn't sure there's an "or" to add to that, actually.

She ends up sitting in an impossible patch of grass, staring at it wide-eyed as her hand plants flat among the blades. As she rubs her palm over the spread of it. She's never seen grass; the Vault had crops, obviously, but grass didn't offer much nutritional value and their fields were limited as it was, so it was not on the tightly-controlled supply of seeds. But she's heard of it. Seen pictures of it -- seen movies with big lawns full of it.

Things that didn't exist anymore. That hadn't for two hundred years.] I don't think delusion even really covers this.

☼ SHRINE OFFERING ☼

"It's tradition. You can choose whatever you wish, but we should all offer."

[Lucy raises her hands with a (polite) smile and shakes her head.] Oh, no, no. I couldn't. We're -- we're not really into denominations, you know, it's sort of a choose-your-own-adventure sort of thing... we don't really ask, but no one has to worship, it's... you know what they say! America is the world's greatest mixing pot!

[And none of that mixing pot had ever really mentioned pagan gods, so it was sort of implied that America's next generation was maybe not going to be, percentage-wise, dominated by people who offered animal bones to gods of death, or, um, community.]

Oh. Gosh, I don't mean to say that this isn't very interesting. Maybe... you know what? Sure! I can try my own, er, offering.

[This is going better than the last mass worship event she got in the middle of. There wasn't anyone eating the ashes of corpses, for one. Actually, the flowers -- an impossible sight to her -- were making this way more preferable.

But given the materials, she looks extremely lost in what she's meant to build here.]

☼ NOCWICH ☼

[A new world. Great! That's real easy to swallow. She's swallowing. She doesn't have much of a choice, does she? Lucy knows she's still in perfect health, as far as she can tell. No further symptoms from radiation -- not that she could do anything about it, because the people here don't know a RadAway from a Rad-X (a difference so vast that just about anyone in the vault from the age of seven on could decipher!)

Maybe she has some experience. In a way, leaving the Vault... that was a new world. The world they'd been waiting to save. Well. Not her, specifically, but her children. When -- when she was supposed to have them. She hadn't known anything of what was out there. And without Max...

Well. She was without Max, and she was pretty sure even describing the ghoul would freak the people here out. And without not a single extra nose on a cheek, or a third eye, or fingers melded together in a single hand, the people here were looking extra...

Er. Normal?

But don't worry, she thinks, to make up for the normality, there's instantaneous transportation through what the locals deem to be magic. And vampires.

Sure.

Lucy is getting through all this. Accepting it. But what really stops her is a pool of crystal-clear water, steam wafting off of it. Clearly marked as some sort of... it can't be a natural pool, can it? And people getting in and out of it, without a single whiff of a worry in their heads. Just. Sliding in and out of water. Steaming water.

She's just staring at it, and this thirst that rumbles so deep it feels like it's embedded into her bones shakes through her. She knows what a dehydration bordering death feels like now. And also knows what irradiated water mixed with blood tastes like.] So you just... you go in there, and you sit? And it's fine?

[And it's fine. It's water, and it's fine.]

Post-Arrival

[smilefornow]

[Now that is a very familiar position to Arthur. He can remember sitting in awe in the grass on his initial arrival. Honestly, it's rather nice to know he isn't the only one to respond in that way. Granted, she isn't partaking of any weeds, but still. She probably doesn't have scurvy.

All things considered, he has to amble over and say hello. And why not? He isn't terribly busy, and his resolution is to put himself out there socially. Make more connections with people and all of that.

Not to mention it's just the right thing to do. It's a terrible shock, getting pulled here. People had been kind to him, now it's his turn to pass that along.]

Ha, I thought just about the same thing, when I got pulled out of the magic water. Thought I must have been hallucinating, or having one of those impossibly realistic coma dreams.

shrine offerings.

[durge]

( haelva has no idea what the hell 'america' is and she, at the other woman's rambling, decides that she is just not going to ask. still, the fact that the other woman comes around to the idea is admirable, and haelva nods, holding out some herbs and flowers for the other woman to take.

(that the tips of her fingers now have translucent flesh and muscle, exposing the bones, is something she's quite forgotten) )

The gods here are as real as anything, and it's... wise not to underestimate them. The details don't matter so long as the intent is true. ( haelva's own offering is a bundle of bones, feathers, and plants used in funerary practices. don't worry about it! ) Especially here.

Nocwich

[northerndragon]

[He has no intention of using the hot springs... not just now. He is only passing by, and as such, he is fully clothed.

The girl doesn't look familiar, but she does look -- surprised. Like all of this is new to her. He hasn't seen her around Thorne, but he thinks she must be one of the Summoned, one from somewhere else.]

You might, if you wish it. And it's all right. Warm.

[His brow crinkles with interest and concern.]

Where do you come from, that you cannot sit in a hot pool?

springs.

[gynvael]

[ Even without any whom he wishes to visit, Geralt is fond of Nocwich. The thick forests, the taverns under the cover of night, the sea nearby—were it not for the absence of a sun, he'd have found a way to live here instead.

The springs are also a pleasant indulgence. He has his potions from Nadine, of course, but Geralt dislikes relying on them. For the most part, his leg no longer ails him as much as it had the first few months. His encounter with the chimera has simply aggravated the old wound. An annoyance, nothing more. One he means to take care of in the hot water.

He's resting with his head against the stones when a pair of footsteps approaches from behind. That part is not unusual. What is unusual is her hesitation.

Geralt cracks open his eyes. His eyebrow raises. Hm. New arrivals already? A shit time to be dragged into this sphere. War might spill any day now.

He eyes her for a second more before looking forward again. ] You can stand if you prefer.

[furibund]

[ The locals don't exactly avoid asking Nebula to join in on their rituals - They still tried, but at least by now she's well-oiled the excuse of "I'm busy," to even the most persistent of ones. Especially when she can't bring herself to be truly awful to them like she once might have. She doesn't completely avoid them, though, which is why she's near enough to hear the other woman's predicament and hasty responses - ]

[ - America she says and it takes no more than that to clock her as a Terran with a barely concealed roll of her eyes. It's nothing personal, but how is it the universe is so flarking large and everyone she meets here comes from America on Terra? ]

[ The woman's quiet for a while and Nebula offers: ]

They prefer more than silence.

post-arrival

[aquaveiled]

[ It's a look she's seen a few times now, one of disbelief and wonder, although Himeka will admit it's not usually directed at the grass itself. Lovely at it is, Solvunn is full of the stuff. Idyllic, even, with rolling hills and lush little patches of brambles and wood.

The commune is amass with familiar faces, so new ones easily stick out, especially those of the newly Summoned. If she wasn't usually so cognizant of who kept to the Primary Settlement, the utterance of the young woman is enough to solidify her assumptions.

It is that time again, isn't it?

Himeka walks over to kneel a few feet away, turning her gaze down to the ground as well. ]

Well, I could say there are worse things to hallucinate. But mayhaps you haven't met all the goats yet.

John Constantine | DC Universe | The Hanged Man | Thorne

[shabby_magic]

Exploring - Magic Lessons

John spreads his hands in front of him, takes a deep breath, and recites the words the young mage told him a few minutes before. He feels the familiar well from within and then a soft breeze ruffles his hair and the edges of his clothes.

“... that’s it?” He looks at the apprentice mage - who looks so damn young to John - with a bit of a frown. “When you said a wind spell I was expecting something a bit more… useful.”

The apprentice explains - very cheerily - that the spell is useful! It can keep him cool in the heat of summer. John huffs out a breath and holds back the urge to lecture the man on what useful magic really looks like.

This strange place he’s found himself in has somehow blocked all the magic he’s spent his life mastering. Master of the Dark Arts might be pretentious but he is much more capable than this little light breeze spell they’re offering up to the Summoned.

John knows it’s a matter of learning the right combination of words. The spell for a candle sized flame and a fireball are mostly the same except for a few choice words. Say something wrong and a whole room can go up in flames.

This magic, this Academic Magic as they call it, works on a similar principle. John thought the lessons might be more useful but… he’ll do better finding what he wants in a library reading on his own.

“Thanks, mate, this proved I don’t need you.” He claps the young apprentice on the shoulder before he turns to leave. John’s not looking where he’s going as he walks out the door. He bumps shoulders with someone on their way in.

Exploring - Nocwich

John leans against a building in Oleuni Square fingering the pendant given to him on arrival. Portal magic is a good sign for his future attempts to get home or to get to other regions. Thorne, while full of magic, feels more like a prison to him given how restrictive the bastards are about the Summoned staying around the castle or seeing the other territories that exist in this world. He’s not going to let them keep him locked up in their gilded tower just because they say it’s for his protection.

He can protect himself. At the moment his plan is to learn all the magic he can as quickly as he can and then find his own ways to break the rules and explore. John is convinced there’s a way home if he learns the way magic works in this world. Then it’s a matter of the right spell.

His deep thoughts show in his expression as he continues to finger the magical artifact he’s been given. There’s a magic here in this place of darkness and monsters to learn as well. Well, John Constantine has never been afraid to walk in the shadows.

He pushes away from the wall and starts moving through the people mingling about intent on going to the places he’s been warned about. Whether the locals like it or not.

Settling In

John sat back on his bed with a large book open on his lap. He chews on his thumbnail as he reads over the words and tries to absorb the lessons. He’s determined to get his magic back and the best method is deep, hard study.

He glances up when one of his roommates comes in. There’s four of them sharing this space, pampered and cared for like favorite pets in John’s opinion. It makes him suspicious of the locals who are just so eager to keep them in this territory and in this castle.

“They left a bit of tea for us,” he says and jerks his chin towards a pot and cups on a coffee table in the room. “Chamomile to help us sleep.”

His little snort of derision says how he feels about such easy generosity from their hosts. John leaves his roommate to do what they will about it and gets back to his reading.

Wildcard

Feel free to start something else if none of these tickle your fancy.

Haku | Spirited Away | The Hanged Man | Solvunn

[thekohakuriver]

i. Arrival & Settling In // Solvunn Primary Settlement
It would be rude to say that he was surprised to be here; in truth, he hadn't been trying to be. The Spirit World has many exits, not all of them predictable, and it had been a long time since he could travel freely, without regard for any lodestone or home. It was natural to make mistakes.

Still, he pauses a long while, standing near a rough stone, looking out over the settlement. One narrow hand lies cold on the stone, feet bare in the earth, eyes distant. The world here is alive with humans, and human smells; cooking food, excrement, raised voices, goat-cries, and a general hum of life. The exhaled breathe of mortality, trickling away like a ceaseless river. He's definitely not paying attention to anything around him.

It's enough to give him a headache.

"Well, I'm here now," Haku mutters, closing his eyes on a sigh, "So now what?"

ii. First Offering // Solvunn Primary Settlement
The attention is discomfiting. Haku is well-used to being looked to by other spirits, even other gods, but humans are...

...He should be able to walk among them unseen, or move through the wind and water, without notice. Not this embarrassing, exposed, gawking. Anyone who sees him might notice that he's uncomfortable with the attention he's getting as a newly-summoned, and is coldly trying to ignore the friendly welcome, to the best of his ability.

Particularly when one of the natives won't seem to stop trying to talk to him, gesticulating excitedly as he explains the local tradition of first offering.

"I'm not going to—" But he's cut off.

Nonsense, my boy! It's tradition, and besides, it's good luck. Come along, it isn't difficult, I'll show you the way...

Please rescue him.

iii. Exploring // Nocwich
Eventually, Haku learns to go along with things as they are, at least somewhat. It takes real effort not to simply swallow the pendant, and thereby keep it safest, but he sees the others all hanging it around their necks and, reluctantly, follows suit. It feels a somehow dangerous gesture; the casting of a leash, the wearing of a collar.

Maybe you notice him tugging at it, through the duration of his visit. He seems uncomfortable with jewelry.

Nocwich is... worse. Or at least not better in a different-enough way as to make him wish he hadn't come. The air is closer, the people louder, and more varied, and the smells are inescapable. He skulks around the edges, penniless and grim-eyed, watching the market with a cold, studious gaze that does not endear him to the merchants. It reminds him, unpleasantly, of the bathhouse, and Yubaba's busy minions.

He certainly isn't buying anything, naturally. But eventually he discovers the stage, and by degrees, he relaxes, and settles to sit by and watch as the shows cycle through the open-air theater, a straight-backed and unassuming presence.

What is much less forgettable is the long, white, snakey dragon that is seen coiled up there once the luncheon intermission has ended, and the crowds reconvened for the afternoon shows. True, as dragons go he isn't very large, but he's larger than a horse, and of an unsubtle color. His tail is in the fountain, for goodness' sakes!

But... he does seem to be watching, most calmly. And is he wearing a visitor's pendant? How unusual! He must be Summoned, after all.

iv. Wildcard
Feel free to give me your own starter, if that sounds fun to you!

Nocwich

[northerndragon]

A great white serpent, that isn't something you see every day. One resting calmly, not attacking, seeming to be watching the mummers up on their stage. Even stranger, it seems to be wearing the same sort of pendant that he is.

He watches it with a wary eye, but as things are, it doesn't seem to be much of a threat.

"It's more usual to turn into a wolf in these parts," he says, mildly. He's never seen any Summoned who was only some sort of beast, but things have changed much in recent days.

Barnabas Tharmr | Final Fantasy XVI | Death | Solvunn

[obscuris]

Primary Settlement

[ Walking through a busy market with the sun beating down and the scent of the ocean on the air, Barnabas could almost pretend. There's Jakob organising the day's hunt and there's Isak and Frida assigning men to harvest the fields and up on the hills Astrid and Sofia will be leading the rest in prayer while his mother is—

Well. Almost pretend. This is no paradise, after all. No reward for a life of service. Moments ago he had shut his eyes for the final time, and now he is...

Here.

Wherever here is.

As he walks by, someone presses a jar of pickled herrings into his hands and offers him a blessing. Barnabas stares at it for a second, remembering the fresh rugbrød they used to have with it, and then hands it off to the person closest to him. ]


Shrine Offerings

[ He hasn't done this for what has felt like an age but the motions are familiar. Muscle memory. A swordsman with his blade. That we may give thanks to the gods for their protections is what he was told. Barnabas very nearly told them that their false gods are not his but he does know the value of holding his tongue. Especially when he has not the strength to enforce it. Besides he is... alone now. His god cannot—does not—hear him. Maybe an offering and a prayer is what is needed. And, it is familiar.

The creature under his hand trembles. The proper way would be to give it a swift death and then bleed it. Barnabas, forgetting he no longer has a lord commander forever at his side, holds out a hand expectantly for a knife. ]


Nocwich

[ The difference is stark. Barnabas steps through the tear in space and in a heartbeat cool moonlight has taken the place of the midday sun. The air shivers with music, full with the scent of hot fat and spice where seconds ago it was the ocean that was carried in on a breeze. It is busy though it looks to be the middle of the night. People press in and push by and Barnabas allows himself to be carried along on the tide.

A land of vampires and werewolves supposedly, whatever those might be. Then again, every bit of information offered has only begotten more questions, as though this place exists to foster confusion. Nonetheless, he shouldn't be here, that much he knows. And so to that end he must seek a way out. Solvunn did not produce any answers, and so here Barnabas picks a direction at random and starts walking. ]

you know, jk perhaps i shall

[carmesi]

( travel in solvunn is always best in pairs, even for those who would rather not be forced to partnerships despite being in a brand new world. wanda doesn't know what it's like for those in thorne or the cities, but while solvunn boasts its fair share of social butterflies, the majority falls in those with a preference for quiet and solitude. the tall, dark-haired summoned doesn't need to say anything to make clear what it is he prefers.

which is why wanda follows close by, a silent presence at his side by the time they arrive at a shrine just off the edge of the forest, where dry, thorny brambles and rocks adorn the crown of fresh leaves, acorns, a single tall, white polished stone at the center of the circle.

wanda raises an eyebrow at the expectant hand that is held aloft, head tilting. when nothing does happen after a few tenths of a minute, she finally speaks, breaking the illusion that the man was here alone. )

You've recently been summoned. You won't have your powers for a while.

( maybe that's it ? )

Stede Bonnet | Our Flag Means Death | The Lovers | Solvuun

[the_gentleman_pyrate]

Shrine Offering

Well, all of this was certainly...

A lot.

Beautiful, to be sure, and everyone had been absolutely lovely so far, eve though he had arrived utterly naked - but then again, that had been how he'd fallen asleep the night before - and he had absolutely been in his ramshackle little shack in his makeshift bed curled right up beside Edward before finding himself drowning in some pool. Answers had thus far been not very forthcoming, at least, not as much as he could tell, and while he was duly fascinated with the surroundings - quaint, a bit more rustic than the housing he was accustomed to by a few centuries - he also kept looking for a sign of anyone familiar. Concern for Edward's whereabouts were forefront on his mind, but thus far, there hadn't been a familiar face in sight. Stede was so very distracted that he had missed half of what this Rowan March person was saying - something about a shrine offering that has to be gathered and -

"Hm? Sorry, what? Sorry, distracted - new place and all, just trying to get my bearings! You uh, haven't - well, I mean - did all of you spring out of a random pool in the ground like that or am I just lucky? And what's this about a shrine offering?"

Stede had tried to be friendly, really he did. Pissing off the locals was the number one surefire way that he was never going to get home, so warm diplomacy covered with confusion and a bit of weaponized ignorance were the tools of the trade for the moment while he figured things out. Polite menace indeed.

And thus was how he found himself with instructions to make a shrine offering, gathered by his own hand, to gift to one of the gods that he was one-hundred percent certain that he had never read about in any religious text or myth. The question of how he would know which of these deities would be best to gift to still lingered on his lips while he sort of hovered around the edge of the settlement. He'd been instructed to not venture into the woods alone, but considering his recent history as a pirate, he didn't think slipping out into the outskirts alone to look for flowers was something dangerous.

(That being said, picking flowers had historically almost always gotten him in trouble, so perhaps he should have taken that as a portent.)

Or perhaps he could venture out to the beach? Perhaps this was some sort of settlement he'd never heard of in the Caribbean? He needed answers, and apparently, an offering and a partner to assist him with it. He frowned at his hands, then looked out at his unfamiliar surroundings, and suddenly very much missed his little shack where Edward no doubt would be waking up and worried sick. Or worse. Please don't think I abandoned you again, Ed. I would never.