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

[inferiority_complex]

Well I guess it's lesson time then. First item of business: witch is a gender neutral term, it covers both male and female witches equally. Warlocks and Wizards are actually different species where I come from, not that you'll ever find a wizard. They're extinct and I really hope they stay that way.

[Jackasses, they were jackasses.] You got Warlocks in your world?[yeah, he's side eying you]

I can do the frog thing. Or turkey. Rats are always a good option. What did this guy do?

And this?[Chris motioned at the deer] This is for a couple different potions. You know, not sure what to make of this place yet. I'm thinking some kind of smoke bomb, something explosive, an acid. Maybe add some paralysis or a sleeping potions in there. And an animal transformation potion--and reversal.

[Chris smirked at his new kind of friend, like maybe they were just starting to get to know each other. And share a funny joke. He'd totally turn someone into an animal if they deserved it. Or dangle them over a cliff in hell and accidentally let his hand slip. But potions? Yeah, he was not staying in this place without extra backup.]

You good with potions too?

[Since he already lost his shirt, well, there was no going back on this. Chris had been banking on Eddie actually knowing how to do this but....nope. So, he shrugged and dragged the knife over the animal, making a vertical cut down the middle as Eddie had guessed. His nose wrinkled at the smell and the ew-ness.]

...This is so gross. Why is witchcraft so gross?

[Chris opened one of his makeshift sacks, and with a motion of his hand, ribs separated, and organs flew into it. Yeah, he was not touching that stuff directly. It wasn't....completely personal gain, right? Was this going to bite him in the ass? Story of his life.]

Movies. So that means your from somewhere with actual television. Cool. I kind of got the feeling that's not always the case here. And I got you, I haven't gone fishing at all. My aunt once turned into a mermaid and got real interested in fish rights.

[Was he kidding?]

[satanicpanics]

Yeah, man, I know it’s gender neutral. But warlock? Inspires an entirely different mental image, you know? Like…the kind of majestic image you’d see airbrushed on the side of a shitty van.

[ And yes, he would have done that to his own van given the time and opportunity. Maybe he still will—a version of it is sitting in the Horizon right now. ]

I’m guessing there’s not really any warlocks in my world, but, uh, apparently we’ve got kids with superpowers running around small-town Indiana so…your guess is as good as mine at this point. And yeah, I’m great with potions, dude.

[ That’s a lie. That’s a huge lie, but hey, he was a baby bartender. Granted, he was only allowed to serve what was on tap and in cans and didn’t get to do a whole lot of mixing and he got paid pennies, but it counts! And his grin is wide enough to inspire utmost confidence. ]

Uh, well, he kind of killed me?

[ It’s not something that Eddie has shared so easily in the past. He’s lived for close to two years in Solvunn with very few people knowing that he’s not actually supposed to be here—or anywhere but a grave, really—but everyone who has a memory of what happened in the crater knows that he died tragically young, and it’s not worth keeping quiet about to someone new. It’s pretty clear that it’s going to cause him anxiety whether he holds it close to his chest or not.

The funny part is that neither he nor Steve had any idea the same guy was with them here in Solvunn all that time. In his defense, Henry is much more normal-looking here than Max ever described him back home, but…well, that’s what you get for not asking for a last name. He struggles with how to feel about it all, honestly. He should be mad, has ever right to be mad, but he’s just…not. If Henry were a turkey or a frog, maybe he could make himself feel something. ]

I mean, technically his mutant bats did, but…yeah, I’ve got some beef with he guy regardless. A turkey would probably be pretty funny, now that you bring it up.

[ He manages to control his rolling stomach when Chris slices the deer open, but he really grimaces as the deer’s organs just…fly though the air and right into his hand. It really is gross. A little bit metal, but a lot gross. ]

Yeah, well, I may need to see more movies if that’s the norm.

[inferiority_complex]

[Bartending was actually a lot like mixing potions. Chris had never really bartended, unless Eddie counted crashing in the back of the club his mom owned. But, mixing drinks was a lot like mixing potions. And cooking. Balancing flavors with different ingredients to bring out specific tastes or potential. It was why his chef of a mother was so good with potions.

Chris had starting to itemize a list of the potions he was going to try to make, and whatever Eddie needed? Just shot straight to the top. Fuck turning this guy into a bat. They were turning him into a turkey and making turkey soup. Chris swallowed, his witch half vying to go kick whoever hurt Eddie into the next century and his whitelighter half wanting to do whatever necessary to protect Eddie. Sometimes it worked great together. Sometimes he had to restrain himself.

It definitely hit different when you were dead too. It was one of the first things he had checked. Somehow these folks were able to heal an unhealable angelic knife wound. Chris had been dead. He had felt himself die. Not just die, fade from existence. From a timeline he was never supposed to be a part of. It wasn't something you easily got over.]

Do you know how we're still alive then?

[Chris hadn't exactly wanted to advertise the 'hey i'm dead!' thing but...Eddie brought it up first?]

What do you say we make turkey soup with this guy? I bet he'd taste great stewed with some celery and carrots and a bit of salt.

[Again, was Chris joking? He could very well be. Or he could actually be serious about making stew from Eddie's killer and feeding the good people of Solvunn with it.]

[satanicpanics]

To be totally straight with you, dude? Half the time I don’t know if I am alive. Like...I know it happened, I’ve got others here who can confirm. But I’m here, I’m not a ghost, but like…I don’t really know what that means in the long run.

[ He was totally wrecked with anxiety over it for awhile. The fact that he doesn’t know what could possible happen to him ext is the worst part of it. Part of him just thinks he’s running on borrowed time; that it’s only a matter of time before the clock runs out and death finally sinks its claws in him. And if the opportunity to return home were ever granted to him—that scares him even more. Who’s to say he won’t just crumble to dust and bone the minute he steps foot back in Indiana? It’s true that his anxiety has softened a bit now that Steve has promised him they’ll figure something out, but it doesn’t mean he’s made peace with it. He’ll probably never make peace with it.

And no, he doesn’t miss that Chris has used the term we, and his gaze flickers quickly in his direction with a brief look of sympathy and curiosity. ]

If you’re looking for an actual answer, I’m probably not the one to ask. But probably the gods or some shit? I try not to think about it much.

[ He’s all for turning Henry into a turkey temporarily, but he frowns and seems to reel back at the prospect of literally anything worse. And he can’t say why because he doesn’t know why. He’s sympathetic, maybe, to the boy Henry used to be. Or it could be that it’s just the fact that Eddie Munson has a heart and a fondness for black sheep. ]

Nah, man, I don’t think we need to go quite that far. Not a big fan of celery, you know?

[inferiority_complex]

Alright, maybe we can turn him into a turkey for a few hours. Wish I had a phone here to take a couple pictures for keepsakes.
[Taking pictures of people you turn into animals. As one does.]

You're alive alright. We both are. You're not a ghost. Or....anything else.

[Chris wanted to add that 'anything else just in case Eddie there had watched too many zombie movies or whatever.]

But what do you mean? In the long run? We're alive. How is a completely different question. Eddie, look. I've met an angel of death. Just because they came for you once, doesn't necessarily mean they're leaving with you. Events can change.

[That's one of the things 'Clarence' his new 'friend' otherwise known as an angel of fucking death, had told him. That had really stuck with him. That he'd been given a second chance. And now? he'd been given 3 'second' chances. Maybe this one he wouldn't screw up.]

Gods, angels. Yeah, probably one of those guys. But, now that we are alive? No reason we can't try and find our way back home right?

[satanicpanics]

I’m for that but you, uh…you know what a phone does, right?

[ Eddie comes from a time where the only cellphones are the same size as bricks—and could probably do just as much damage if you hit someone in the head with one. He knows no one who owns one, and cameraphones are a dream in no one’s mind. It’s actually sort of impressive that no one has informed him of the future of phones at this point. Doesn’t matter, though, not as much as other pieces of his conversation.

The thing is, he’s always just kind of been allowed to believe that his is the end of the line for him. Aside from a handful times where Steve’s just seemed to forget, no one has ever really tried to imply that he’s wrong, that what happened didn’t stick and he could go home just as easily as anyone else if the opportunity is presented. He’s always considered himself as living on borrowed time and has awful mental images of himself just crumbling to dust when he finally steps foot back home. Chris is the first one to try to fully convince him otherwise, and now he’s just not sure what to do with that information. ]

You’ve met an angel of death.

[ A statement, not a question. He snorts and tilts his head, fixing Chris with a half-amused, half-skeptical expression. It’s not that he doesn’t believe him, but he didn’t meet anyone or anything, just the bats and the slow fade to black as he bled out and ended up here. ]

Yeah, Chris, quick question. At risk of sounding rude—just how human are you? Because that? That is gonna change the level of how much I trust that what you’re saying applies to me.

[inferiority_complex]

Oh yeah, about that? I'm from the future. But just like......wait, what year is it for you? I'm guessing between like 1970 and 1990? So like, 40, 50 years? Not enough that there are flying cars but enough that phones are different.

[At least here he didn't have to worry about changing anything too much. He wasn't here to change Eddie's future. Although, maybe he was? That was a thought. There was literally nothing stopping him from opening up a portal and sending Eddie through back to his place right? Assuming he could get it right. Those things were tricky fuckers. Chris kind of got a look in his eye, like he met his new project and his name was Eddie.

And then, Chris got more squirrely. But honestly? That was kind of his default. After more than a year of side stepping, evasion and downright constantly lying, telling the truth wasn't exactly habit. So Chris' answer had less to do with the fact that he didn't think Eddie would believe him, or that in 2027 magic was outed. He was just a giant liar. Honestly, the guilty, evasive look on Chris' face was probably enough to tell you the answer even if the shit pouring out of his mouth was utter bullshit.]

Uh, yeah, I did meet an angel of death, but honestly those were really unique circumstances and in my defense he was pretending to be a janitor. Look. Fates can be changed. It doesn't matter who or what someone is. The point is, you're not dead now? So. Let's find a way back and go live your life.

You think I'm hiding hooves or a tail here? I'd be more concerned about how human the guys who summoned us are than a random guy in the woods. Trust me, death is one of those equal opportunity things.

[Chris had to believe that. Because otherwise everything he'd done, everything he died for was pointless. And sure, there was a ....pretty good chance that if he sent Eddie back another angel of death was going to see his name on the list and try to hit him with a car or something but. Chris could totally find a way around that, right?]

[satanicpanics]

Yeah, ’86. How far in the future? Like, has Black Sabbath finally invited Ozzy back as their frontman or are they still waltzing between Dio and Ian Gillan?

[ A question that could literally only come from a metalhead…

It’s clear that he’s unfazed, because he’s done this song and dance multiple times before. Relative to him, almost everyone is from the future, an he’s not totally blind to what lies further ahead. He’s learned about Metallica selling out (he will never get over St. Anger), iPods, several bands who made their debut not long after his death, the Lord of the Rings films, but there’s still a lot he doesn’t know. Phones becoming cameras, for example, is just a confusing mental image for someone who lacks the context of a digital camera.

He can’t say he likes the look on Chris’s face and has no idea he’s on his way to becoming someone’s project, but he can’t quite read it and therefore he ignores it and focuses instead on the fact that Chris just very blatantly avoided his question.

You’re not dead now, let’s find a way back and go live your life. Sounds positive, sounds hopeful, sounds really good—and it scares Eddie halfway back to his grave. Because he knows what happened, and normal people don’t get to come back from that. It’s going to take more than a stranger’s word to get him to truly believe that. ]

Yeah, I think the man doth protest too much so, uh…maybe a tail, maybe horns. Hooves—probably not. Seriously, dude, I've been here for two years with angels and demigods and full on freaks of nature. Just how human?

[inferiority_complex]

[Of all the questions to ask, this guy was asking about Black Sabbath? If anything growing up with his mom running a club he knew people had strong opinions about music but....that was what you were going with? Of all the possibilities for the future?]

1986. Wow. That's like....blockbuster and cassette tapes and stuff right? It's 2027 back home--but I spent a year in 2004? If it matters? Uh, I remember something about a reunion tour but honestly...that was kind of before I was born? I mean, if I had my phone I could google it but....no phone here. Hell, no network here.

[And then it was like Chris just processed exactly what Eddie had said. And he got super duper squirrley. And he might be having a silent panic attack. Chris's reaction? Yeah, he probably wasn't human. Oh he was screwed, he was so screwed.]

There are angels here?

[Okay, okay. He could fix this. He could totally fix this. Without getting murdered. Right? Right. He had options. Option 1. Tell Eddie everything, find out where the angels were and then hope to fuck he keeps his mouth shut. Option 2. Find out where the angels are, don't tell Eddie anything. That alone is probably going to make Eddie suspicious and he's going to find out anyway. Option 3. The angels might already know he's here. In which case, none of this matters and he's probably screwed. Fuck. So, Chris stalled again.]

I really don't want you to get caught up in the middle of this.

[Great, now Eddie probably thought he was a demon or something. This was going so well.]

I'm half witch, half whitelighter. They're kind of like a guardian angel? And I'm betting the angels might not be too happy about me existing. If they're anything like the ones back home. I'm fucked. I'm so fucked. I'm going to die. Again.

You might want to keep your distances so you don't get bits of me on your clothes.

[satanicpanics]

Well, Hawkins hasn’t moved up enough in the world for a Blockbuster, so, uh…it’s Family Video in my case, but yeah. Blockbuster, cassette tapes, still an 8-track or two if you’re feeling feeling real crazy.

[ The flat look on his face very clearly reads “what the hell is a google and why are you calling it on your phone”, but he doesn’t ask. ]

I don’t think you understand just how vague the term “reunion tour” can be.

[ It could mean everyone but Ozzy, or Dio instead of Ozzy, but he lets it go. Clearly this guy isn’t quite as into music as Eddie is, and he’ll need to find someone else to answer his Black Sabbath-specific questions. Instead, he tilts his head and watches Chris’s face very carefully as he pretty clearly begins the downward spiral into anxiety. A spiral Eddie himself knows very well. ]

If you’re like…half angel or whatever, why would they be pissed? Doesn’t that make you family or something?

[ Granted, he knows families don’t always get along. His doesn’t. But he’s gotten the answer he was prodding for. Chris isn’t exactly human, and he can easily assume that extends to his lifespan and ability to die and remain dead. Normal people don’t come back. Chris isn’t normal people. ]

Just how many times have you died?

[inferiority_complex]

[yeah that look on Chris's face meant he was totally going to have to backtrack and explain to Eddie the joys of the iphone and welcome him to the 21st century. You know, when he was done with his own panic attack.]

I can tell you the recipe for magical mace but music? Music is more my mom's thing, she owns a club. If she were here, she'd probably know. Although I'm pretty sure she'd never be able to get Black Sabbath to play at P3.

Seriously, of all the things you could ask me about the future, that's what you're going with?

[Don't get him wrong Eddie, he was kind of grateful you didn't want to know anything super world altering. Or like the lottery numbers. But maybe that was cause he was dead? Now back to Chris's existential crisis.]

I don't think I count as family. Half angels aren't supposed to exist. Like at all. When my dad first tried to marry my mom they used the phrase 'unspeakable wrath the likes of which you have never imagined.' It's forbidden. I'm pretty sure they only gave in because they needed my mom. And in all honesty were probably afraid of her.

[He didn't blame them at all. His mom? Kind of bad ass. And his family were kind of loose canons.]

I only died once. If you don't count the time I almost prevented my own conception and ceased to exist. But that doesn't make what I said any different. In fact I'd say it's exactly the opposite. Since they don't really want us to exist, you know? Honestly you probably have a better chance at coming back from the dead than I do.

[Chris paused, a small beacon of hope that Eddie was undoubtably about to smash gleaned in his eye, a pause in the utter drama queen panic he was spouting.]

I don't suppose these angels are like, super into hugging?

[satanicpanics]

Uh, yeah. I’ve seen Back to the Future, dude. More than once. I don’t wanna deal with all the bullshit that comes along with knowing future sports outcomes or if the world is on fire yet or not. But Black Sabbath…that I can handle.

[ He says it like it should be obvious. Of course he asked about Black Sabbath, because what else was he gonna ask about? It is in part absolutely because he’s dead, though. At least he can admire that Ozzy may or may not still be alive in the future. ]

Alright, so basically because you dad couldn’t keep it in his pants, you’re being punished for it? Sounds kind of familiar, honestly, but uh…that really sucks, man.

[ He doesn’t elaborate. His dad’s reputation as a crook and a schemer always rubbed off on him, made people view him a certain way before they even got to know him, and yes, made people want to kill him. It’s not quite comparable, but neither one of them asked to be born the way they were. ]

Yeah, I am counting that, thanks. Normal people can’t do that.

[ I’d clear that he doesn’t buy it, and it’s going to take a whole lot of convincing to get him to believe that he has even a chance of getting out of here. But t’s okay, because he’s resigned himself—he resigned himself ages ago. It’s the thought that he could be left here alone someday that really irks him. ]

If it makes you feel any better, I only know of a few, and the majority of them are in the other factions, so…your chances of running into most are pretty slim. Probably. But Michael’s pretty chill.

[ Michael is cool in Eddie’s experience, at least. Michael did leave him to scare a bear away all on his own once, but that turned out fine and he’s really not the type of guy Eddie takes issue with. It’s so hard to detach eight hundred fake years from the two years he’s physically been here that he’d even consider them proper friends at this point. ]

I don’t really get hug vibes from him, but I really don’t think he’s going to give a shit.

[inferiority_complex]

I wouldn't actually tell you anything important. But I'm impressed you have enough foresight and self control to moderate that. Almost no one else I've told has been able to handle it. And to be completely fair to Marty---he was human by the way. A normal, every day human--and he almost did the same thing right?

[Yes, he'd seen the movie. You'd think he would have thought about that before making the same freaking mistake. But no. No he didn't. He just went back in time with the equivalent of a flame thrower and a dream.]

Really sucks kind of covers it. It's not ....just dad's fault. The Elders aren't exactly the most forgiving, compassionate people ever. You know, for being a bunch of angels. Actually, they're kind of asswipes. But, if you say this Michael guy isn't like that? I'll take your word for it. You seem cool. And totally not the kind of guy to hang out with asswipes.

But if he kills me, I'm haunting you.

[Chris was.....mostly joking?]

I'm just. Sick and tired of being blamed for things that aren't my fault.

[Chris kicked a nearby rock, now that he had allowed himself to be frustrated. Dying was a mood. Being murdered was a mood. Being murdered by pacifists was definitely a mood.]

[satanicpanics]

Uh, Black Sabbath is important. It's not my fault you're uncultured.

[ Black Sabbath is important to him, at least. ]

Yeah, just one big, human difference between me and Marty. I died--tragically young, might I add. He didn’t.

[ It’s clearly a point of view he clings to for some reason, unmoving and unwilling to change. He’s had two years to repeat these things to himself: that he’s dead, that this is is second chance, it doesn’t extend to home and it could taken away at any moment. It’s not that he wants it to be true, but he’s already extended such a ridiculous amount of anxiety to those thoughts that it would feel a waste to change them now.

He’s also just scared that nothing can be confirmed otherwise. If he expects the worst, he can never be unpleasantly surprised. ]

Yeah, well…why don’t you call this your fresh start? You came here the same way as the rest of us, and no one can blame you for shit because nothing’s happened. I mean, that deer you killed might say otherwise, but uh...no one needs to know about that, right?

[ One could argue that’s a hypocritical statement, but Eddie is the same man who isn’t even angry with the guy who killed him. He’s just…dealing with it because he doesn’t know how to handle it. ]

It's gonna take a lot for someone to actually kill you here.

[ Not something he can say for absolute sure, but Nero is the only Summoned he can name who’s ever died here—and something else got him. Chris would have to mess up real bad to join him. ]