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.

Go to top ⇑

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.

Go to top ⇑

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.

Go to top ⇑

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.

Go to top ⇑

Comments

[youmiscalculated]

I don't know what to think about Thorne. But I know attacking like this isn't going to solve anything, on either side. People just get hurt. [ She wonders how hard it would be if Glimmer were here, to teleport all of the Summond out of Thorne and somewhere else. ] And they can't even evacuate, that isn't right.

[ And now the people in the Free Cities are suffering. Knowing it isn't the whole world is a relief, but it also makes her wonder what there is outside of the factions they know. She's going to ask when he mentions fake futures and she frowns immediately. ] The Singularity can do that? I...wow. Okay yeah, I wasn't here long enough last time at all. It...it reached out to me when something was happening, and I knew it controlled the magic, but—[ She's babbling, and she stops, rubbing a hand behind her head. ]—Sorry. I'm learning new things today. A lot of new things.

[ She glances at the guns again, trying not to look like a kid who wants to touch. Jesper mentions a Summond who can make blades and she brightens, then dims immediately because said person is gone. ] I remember in Thorne I couldn't carry a sword, but I can here?

[ If she had a sword to use. She would feel so much better if she had even her sparring staff from Bright Moon, anything in her hands to help her in a fight. ] Clearly, I need to start making money.

[itookashot]

There's nothing we can really do about it. The leaders won't be listening to any of us and they're making their moves. This is just the start.

[Jesper doesn't mean to be fatalistic but he considers himself a pragmatist. They can't tell the Free Cities government not to consider a biological weapon a sign of war. They can't reason with a leader who threw a coup and murdered his own family. They live here as outsiders. This is the one thing that Jesper truly doesn't think they can do a thing about. The Singularity and the gods, yeah, but they are still captives at the end of the day here.]

None of us knew it could do that. It was very destructive. A girl said she talks to it, that it was mad about this god that messed around with us in Ikorr. So I think it was a combination of a god playing games and using the Singularity. Either way, it was like a long crazy experience. We were stuck physically in the crater for three weeks, our own territories threw us in there to see if we could stop it. I guess we did.

[ Jesper won't forgive them for that. He literally had to be dragged there, he fought until they had to lock him up and take him. He didn't fight on the way back though. He does understand that ultimately, they probably did the right thing, because the Summoned did 'fix' it by experiencing what they did. But it doesn't mean he's okay with it all the same. The Free Cities has always pretended they wouldn't control them like that, but he knew all the time they would. That paranoia was true.]

A lot of weird stuff happened since you were gone, I get it, that's a lot to take in.

[ He's been here years now. It's old hat at this point. Jesper notices her look and spins one of his revolvers out of its holster. The movement is so fast it can barely be seen before he's offering one to her holster first to take a look at if she wants. The revolver has a pearl handle and is extremely well made.]

You can carry any weapon you can afford, yeah. The Free Cities is shitty in their own ways, but they're not as restrictive as Thorne. I own a business here even.

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora listens to everything, trying to soak it all in, and by the time he's finished, winds up leaning against the nearest wall with a hand across her forehead. ]

I really have missed...so much. So we—the Summond—were brought here and have no real rights, and all we can do is try to protect one another and take care of the innocent people caught up in it all? [ Just to make sure she's understanding the basics. Something twists in her stomach at the people in the territories forcing the Summond to do their will. It reeks of the First Ones and what they did to Mara, to her, and she shakes her head a little. ]

I probably should've said thank you, first, for explaining it all. [ She's definitely impressed by the way he handles the revolver, and she knows enough to understand where the dangerous end is, and to keep her finger off the trigger. She admires the delicate work and lightly traces a finger over the smooth handle. ] I dunno if this is cool to say about a gun, but these are really pretty. [ She hands it back the same way Jesper presented it to her; no weapon in all of the Fright Zone ever looked as nice as those guns.

For everything he's told her, the fact that in all of this he can still own a business is impressive, and she says so. ] Wow, I mean, I can't remember anyone ever telling me they owned anything in Thorne. Actually, there were just a lot of rules and gentle 'suggestions' about how to live to not catch attention. [ She's glad that, for whatever reason, she was dropped somewhere different this time. ]

What kind of business?

[itookashot]

Yep, sounds about right. We can protect each other and other people as much as possible, but sometimes it may be out of our hands. That's something we just have to live with. I'm not a fan, but.

[ Jesper shrugs. He likes being an active person who is in charge of his own life, he was a gunslinger and gang member by trade before coming here, and he always got to pick the action in his own life. Now he's at the whim of some powerful forces or some assholes in power. It frustrated him a great deal in the start and now he's simply accepted it after so many times he dealt with things beyond him.

Jesper flashes a bright smile at the compliment to his guns, because he considers them an extension of his being, so she's really complimenting him. He flips the gun in a swift and skilled way, spinning it in his hand before putting it back into his holster.]

Thanks! I designed them myself, with the help of the gunsmith. I could've gotten some cheap ones faster, but a real gunslinger doesn't take the easy route.

[ Then he'd have them messing up on him and he'd have no one else to blame. Jesper nods at what she's saying about Thorne, because he knows that from the people he loves there. It's highly restrictive. While he's not any happier about the army here, he's thankful for the freedoms they have. They can go to other cities, wander out into the Badlands without supervision, buy houses and businesses. He doesn't take it for granted.

He smiles and gestures to his clothes. He might not be wearing his jacket, but his vest is still intricately designed and a bright green, his pants well-tailored, with a jaunty hat on his hat. Jesper likes looking good but it's a very flashy style.]

Fashion designer. Me and another Summoned, Hilda, make clothes for fashion and sometimes for theater costumes. Although we've had to shift our style lately, as people don't have money to spend on fancy things.

[youmiscalculated]

Taking care of people hasn't changed from home to here. That, I can do. [ Even if circumstances are awful and she agrees with Jesper, not a fan either, but helping is better than nothing. She watches him put the weapon away, repeating a new word to herself: gunslinger. ]

No way, why would anyone go cheap with a weapon? I don't mind cheap when it comes to a lot trust me, but weapons? My sword's a part of me, accepting anything cheap would be like...like...telling people I don't care. About myself or them. [ She can't imagine showing up with something that looks fine but breaks, or in his case, doesn't fire. All talk and show, with no actual action to back it up. She's known people in the Horde like that.

When he explains more about what he does, her face slowly changes into an expression of recognition. ]

Wait a second, I know Hilda. Hilda...bought me a cloak in Nocwich the first time I was here! I remember because a stranger's never bought something for me before, Hilda's still here? [ Adora beams brightly at Jesper and remembers a little more. ] Her horizon domain was destroyed when those rifts were opening. She taught me how to manipulate the magic into what I wanted, and I helped her rebuild some.

[ That means Hilda's in the Free Cities, so now, maybe once Adora's made some actual money, she can repay her. ] You'd both love my friend Glimmer. The day she gave me a makeover and picked out my clothes might've been the happiest day of her life. [ Adora's smile is warm and fond, though she misses her friend. ]

I uh...I'm not great at clothes. I kind of wear the same thing all the time at home. I bet people love your shop; I can understand needing to adapt, though. Is it going okay?

[itookashot]

Ehhh, not everyone can build up the money for custom items. Especially not in the current economic crisis. I was lucky, I have sellable skills.

[ If he didn't, he has no idea when he would have been able to get the money. Jesper hit the ground running and immediately started hustling and getting as much money as possible, sometimes for cheap jewelry or tourist trap items. It took months but it was worth it. He's just not surprised there are people around here who simply can't manage it. Especially people with families who can't afford extras like that, but want to protect themselves.

He smiles when she mentions Hilda and nods. All that sounds like her, for sure, she has a generous heart.]

Yeah, she's right here in Cadens. Her domain's back, it didn't last. Now I know when you were around.

[ Nothing like certain events to hook into his mind as a time. So she was around for that. Got it. It has been awhile since then though.]

You're a lovely woman, I can see wanting to give you a makeover.

[ He's always flirting and now is no exception, but it's easy, relaxed, not meant to be taken seriously, at least not for now. He's quick on compliments.]

We're still working on the transition. Other places will go out of business over this, but we're lucky that we're very adaptable.

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora has no skills outside of combat related, at least that she knows of. She was never allowed to explore that in the Horde, and honestly, there's been no time to figure it out since she picked up that sword. She isn't even sure what she likes, other than trying different food. ]

I hope I get to see her again soon. She was kind to me, and now that I remember her, it'd be great to say hi. [ It's something she makes a mental note to do (and she'll forget, unfortunately), and then blushes. Compliments aren't as new and overwhelming as they used to be, but from total strangers? That's going to fluster her a little. Clearing her throat, she smiles gratefully but focuses on that last part instead. ]

It's good you can change tracks easily. I'm going to find a way to make money, and then make sure I come to your shop.

[ It sounds so normal, even after being swept away form home. Adora, with her own money (one day), buying something on her own, for herself, is a new concept to her. Or rather, a new concept for the second time, since she'd never had time to wrap her mind around it the first time before she left. ]

[itookashot]

I'm sure she'd love that. Hilda never forgets anyone, I'm sure she's wondered how you are.

[ That's just the type of person Hilda is. Jesper does the same thing when people go, he often wonders what their lives are like. At least with Wylan and Inej, when they left, he knew where they were going and to what. Their futures are his too. But there are others who have come and gone and never get any kind of closure with the rest of them left behind. One of the issues with being here that's out of their hands.

Jesper likes flustering people, especially pretty people, but he knows when not to press or overdo it. She doesn't seem the type who would want to curl her finger in her hair and flirt outwardly back at him, especially not considering where they are. He winks at her though before continuing.]

We're currently making more pragmatic everyday clothing while still trying to make them attractive, and then with magical enchantments on them for defense. People are looking for that right now.

[Unsurprisingly, given they'd been attacked, and it was only a matter of them before it happened again. Jesper and Hilda want to help people out while also keeping their business afloat, so it's a combination of those two urges.]

🎀 wrap in a tag or two?

[youmiscalculated]

[ Adora has no idea how someone figures out they're good at something like making clothes, or making anything, really. She's never heard the word 'hobby,' and no one's ever asked her what hers are, but she wouldn't know how to answer. The last thing she was curious about was learning how to fly her spaceship, and she handed the literal wheel over to Bow and Entrapta pretty quickly on that one. For a split second, she wonders if she could learn to make clothes and if she'd like it, but then the thought is gone.

Adora's also never heard the phrase 'they're flirting with you,' but it is nice to be noticed, especially when she's not even She-Ra. The latter is the one with the majestic flowing hair and great legs, not Adora, so it's a nice change of pace to be winked at by someone who isn't Wrong-Hordak. ]

That's another thing I have to figure out again, the magic. But wait, you can enchant the actual clothes with defensive features? Business must be booming right now, as much as it can be. I don't think I was here long enough last time to fully realize what the magic is capable of.

[ She would have a difficult time charging for the enchantments while at the same time not wanting to go out of business, so she understands either way doing whatever needs to be reasonably done. In Adora's mind, Jesper has been kind, and Hilda was likewise so kind to her, neither of them could be anything less than sympathetic to others in need. ]

I wish I still had the cloak Hilda gave me before, I'd bring it in to see if it could be enchanted somehow.

Can wrap here1

[itookashot]

Well, we're working on exactly that. It's a combination of fabric and metals, it's a long story. It's easier to drop an enchantment on something solid like a metal, it would need to be occasionally renewed, but it's an ongoing project.

[ Jesper actually does like talking about it because he thinks they've come up with a great work around. It takes more effort and it technically puts him in more danger, but he likes adapting to changes, and that's what they're doing, on the fly. Jesper waves a hand around.]

Tell you what, let's hand out some water, make certain it gets back to them, and then we'll go to the shop. Maybe we have a cloak for you.