TEST DRIVE MEME #20

[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 October.

The upcoming October application round is open to everyone again.

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 autumn well underway, the weather is cool and rain becomes more frequent. Leaves are beginning to turn yellow and orange. 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. You may hear rumors of a strange phenomenon taking place.


• 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. The mood in Thorne is grim but determined.


• 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 visiting Borrel, you'll see a large amount of construction going on, as new warships are being built at a rapid pace, using the aid of magic to speed things along.

◎ Exploring

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

Roaming Dolls
In preparation for the children who will Roam during Eifstide, the Castle is constructing autumn dolls to distribute on behalf of the King and Queen. Supplies will be laid out in one of the castle's rooms where you can create a variety of dolls using cloth leaves, waxed nuts, and yarn. An incantation is provided to enchant the dolls with a colorful sparkle, written in an ancient tongue. Make sure the pronunciation is perfect. A small mistake might cause your doll to turn a foul color or crumble into dust in your hands. If you possess your own magic, you can use that instead!

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 warming bubble over you. Perfect for when the weather gets cold! 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 gush of steam as the spells fail. It isn't dangerous, but it can be annoying...and cause everyone in the room to become very damp.

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 sun remains bright at midday. At night, temperatures are beginning to dip lower than they did in summer. Bring a coat if you're not used to a slight chill. 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. Nonetheless, the mood in the Free Cities is hopeful. It seems they've come into a recent victory.


• 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. You may hear rumors of a strange phenomenon taking place.


• 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.

Oh My Gourd
A researcher named Esi Hollandse has returned with an upgraded variant to her creation last year: a handheld "laser" tool powered by New Magic. Originally created for sculpting marble and stone, she's attempting to refine the device so it can carve gourds for Eifstide. Citizens are lining up to test it for themselves and retrieve a free pumpkin to carve in the process. Why not carve a pumpkin of your own? Of course, it's a bit of a two-person job - someone needs to hold the pumpkin while the other operates the device. Be careful! The invention is still in the works so now and again, a gourd might burst.

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 autumn, the weather is chilly and thunderstorms increase in frequency. 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 broken seashells scattered across its shoreline, as if a large amount has recently shattered and has not yet all been swept away by the tide.


• 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. 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

2/3

[floeing]

i hate war

[And he's seen so many in 300 years. Covered so many battlefields with snow that quickly turned red. Humans never stop.]

3/3

[floeing]

thanks
for answering my questions
it was welcome wagon-y enough

[See, he's trying to make up for that foot in his mouth! As much as he enjoys bothering people, even he has lines he doesn't cross. Causing torture to come into the conversation is one of them.]

[spikyheaded]

[He takes a few steps forward, but Tifa closes the distance between them before he can.

Giving her a cursory once over, his eyes pause momentarily at her extended hand. Cloud wonders if he should reach and take it, just like she had done when he offered his own on the skywheel. Lingering for a little longer, his gaze slowly flickers back to meet hers. In the end, he decides against his intrusive thought, nodding lightly, the faintest of smiles on his lips.]

Yeah, it's me.

[She has the right to be wary of him, especially after what had happened in Gongaga. How his actions betrayed him and how he feels that he had broken his promise of protecting her, doing the opposite instead. Even if they had some time to talk it out afterward, the guilt would still gnaw him on the inside.

All he could do was reassure her, even if it was simply in the form of words.]

You're making it sound like we didn't just see each other.

[It may have been a few days for him, but he can't imagine it had been far longer for her.]

nocwich

[vecna]

[Henry's visited Nocwich's gambling dens more than once, though he'd hardly call himself much of a gambler at all. No, he's more of a people watcher—and how easy it is to utilize his cynicism in a place like this, darkened dens of vice—and this is one of the best places to do so. To watch someone's tells, to see what makes them a good or bad liar, to see who's willing to risk it all, and the ones who play it too safe.

Just a little nugget of insight into what makes a person tick, given freely. A good way to spend one's hours of wretched idleness and boredom.

The crowd bustles, though, and sometimes he has to move to another spot to get a better view of one of the more exciting tables. In doing so, he's earned the remark from another wayward soul.]

Hm?

[He raises a pale brow, his tone unaffected and softly lilting as it usually is for a stranger, then Henry shifts his gaze back towards the table.]

And what makes you so sure? A whiff of desperation?

[princessvegas]

There are people in Solvunn who can tell you more. Wanda and Himeka are the two who have been there the longest, I think. You don't need the dirty details before you even really know where you are.

[ And, unfortunately, where he is happens to be a world that's perpetually teetering on the fence between uneasy attempts at armistice and all-out war. But he is in the most peaceful (if spookiest) of the territories.

But she does have one final thing to ask, inspired solely by the name signature on these messages. ]

Are you by any chance a snowman who used to be Michael Keaton?



[ Jack Frost. ]

[floeing]

[He makes sure to save those names for later, but before he can add for a description or something, she reveals she recognizes him. Usually that would make him happy, but she doesn't exactly pick up his favorite example. Jack loses concentration for a moment to groan, it takes him a few seconds to reply.]

with all the AMAZING stories about me out there
why is it that people remember THAT ONE so much???

[princessvegas]

So you ARE Michael Keaton?

[floeing]

NO!!!!
i'm JACK FROST
i'm a SPIRIT not a SNOWMAN

pumpkin carving

[theidlemaiden]

[ Hilda hasn't forgotten about the strange handheld contraption that had been introduced to them last year. But this time the medium is a little different than before. It seems a little like a waste of a perfectly good pumpkin, but when she sees the sorts of creations that people are creating, well, how can she resist?

And honestly, if this makes it easier to carve the hard to cut gourds, then she's all for it. She's just returned from retrieving a laser and is on her way to pick out a pumpkin when she overhears the surely young man. Hilda looks every bit ready to work with the safety goggles perched atop her head and a laser cutter in her hands. ]

Because maybe they're hoping that it'll turn that grumpy expression into a happier one. Pumpkin carving isn't really your cup of tea I'm guessing?

[princessvegas]

Michael Keaton WAS a spirit, he was just IN a snowman.

You should WANT to be him. The only other Jack Frost thing I know is that he freezes your nose off. It's in songs and everything.

[ 50-50 odds on whether she's just yanking his chain now. ]

[floeing]

[As soon as Iris lets go of him, Jack lands on the ground and starts fixing his hoodie, frost quickly appearing on the ground under his feet. His annoyance disappears when he sees Iris shaking his hand, which makes him snicker. And accidental prank, if it can even be called that at all, but still amusing.

The boy isn't annoyed, though. He's-- curious? Huh. Jack offers a smile and pokes at the frost on Iris' hand, causing it to explode in thousands of tiny flakes.]

Winter magic.

[morethan084]

[The warnings they had been given already just makes Daisy more curious, but even she isn't reckless enough to try and do anything like that right now. Not when she's injured like this in a completely new world, seemingly much different to her own.

A small smile touches her lips, but it doesn't reach her eyes when he tells her it's nice to meet her. This is far from the ideal situation in which to meet new people, but she doesn't have to tell him that.

Daisy is content to sit in silence, observing everyone at their table. At least until the stares become too much, and Daisy's had enough of them.]

What was that you said about climbing in trees?

[She figures he meant it metaphorically, but that was her signal that she wanted to get the hell out of here. Whether he decides to join her or not is up to him.]

[floeing]

why would i want to be michael keaton
the guy is afraid of flying

but see you do know other stories
more accurate ones
you should've started there, missy
although i doubt there's christmass here

[princessvegas]

Why do you know fun facts about Michael Keaton? That's a weird thing for Jack Frost to know, if he is not in fact Michael Keaton?

But fine, that's like his worst role anyway. Also Martin Short's worst role. I guess Jack Frost is just sucky, if great actors can't pull it off. Also also, literally no one in history has ever been like "I really wish for some frostbite", so


There's not Christmas, but there are holidays around that time here too. The Dimming is when the Singularity hibernates and the natives have trouble with magic. They call it the Enlightenment here in the Cities, and put up lots of lanterns.

[floeing]

because i was there when they recorded that awful movie
unfortunately all my attempts to correct it went ignored

[Translation: he caused utter chaos.]

hey at least the santa clause got some details right
frosting mexico was indeed fun
bunny was the lame one in that movie and i'll never say no to more excuses to tease him

also many people in history wished for snow day
or were such a great student that you went to school on snow days too?
nerd

hey anything similar to the winter solstice is fine by me

KICKS DOWN YOUR DOOR oh also i guess talent show

[theidlemaiden]

[ Just because the arts is currently suffering doesn't mean that Hilda, or any of those out of work artists are taking it lying down. A lack of funding certainly makes things more difficult, but not impossible to encourage creativity. And since the costumes and props aren't technically in use right now, what better way to make use of them than by creating an opportunity for them to be used in the talent show?

They must have just missed one another earlier. As Hilda returns with a basket full of ribbons and baubles, scraps that she and Jesper no longer needed, the
children that had been eagerly awaiting her clamour at her pants causing her to bump into someone. So caught up in the noise she almost doesn't recognize Mercedes. But when she does, she does a double take. ]

Mercedes?

[ There's a beat that follows as her eyes widen before she's quick to pull her into a fierce hug. ]

Oh my Goddess - you're here! And of course I'd find you at the orphanage.

[godofrain]

Please, do not worry about that. As I said, those wounds are old and the... magic of my world has failed to heal me already. I've learned to live with it. Ah, my thanks.

[Nagato gave as much as a formal bow he could do while sitting on his stump to the little girl who was enthusiastically trying to shove a branch (spiders included) in his face. It seemed to be the right size so the shinobi drew the kitchen knife he had hidden in his sleeve and started parring the stick with sharp flicks of his little blade, flicking the spiders away but setting a caterpillar down o little way away so the children could watch it.]

And yourself? You're one of the Called, aren't you? Settling down alright?

nocwich.

[bedtimes]

[ it's no surprise that cloud would find vincent in nocwich. even without his usual cape and cowl, he still manages to blend into the shadows of his surroundings as if he's simply always been there, seemingly right at home amidst the dark backdrop and this area's denizens. he has, after all, an image to maintain. or something like that.

all this is to say that while cloud struggles to deal with the seller, vincent melts out of the shadows somewhere behind him, stepping up next to cloud on his right. crimson eyes meet the seller's, unblinking, as he reaches into a pocket to pull out a coin, wordlessly placing it onto the stall's counter. two fingers slide it over, a brow arched before the seller hastily hands the blanket over to cloud. ]

... Goats?

[ that's to cloud, his head tilted slightly. solvunn, then, perhaps. ]

Goat races

[floeing]

[If Jack had any popcorn right now, he'd be munching on it with absolute delight. Seeing people run after goats is hilarious, and honestly? He's cheering for the goat. Sitting on top of the wall at the end of the alley, he keeps glancing between the goat and its chaser, until Cloud throws that little comment.]

I'm preeeeeety sure the goat's horns and its current killer intent toward you beat the chickens. [Jack raises his eyebrows.] What kind of weird chickens do you know anyway?

[preyed]

[ The revelation that most people have access to magic isn't precisely a shock - after all, enough people in pockets here and there have a penchant for the arcane back home. It's the next part - the source of all magic, the source of everything - that brings her thoughts to a standstill. Singularity. She chews the word over and over like the pastry getting mauled in her teeth. Horizon. Two words she keeps close for the moment, letting Julie carry the conversation. It's easy enough to do.

And there are so many other revelations to happen in this conversation, it seems. Two thin brows quirk up in surprise, a muted emotion beneath the spark of interest that she shows. ]

Three years ago isn't so long in the grand scheme of things. [ Few years at all for an elf. But the point - that this woman isn't from this land and has been absent from her home for so long - is more than disturbing. It's unacceptable.

I can't remain here that long. Not when my target is so close-- ]

But it must feel like forever when this place isn't your home. [ Another mouthful of pastry, considering as she chews. ] Have they not sent anyone back? Is there truly no magic that will reverse the summoning?

[preyed]

[ Sebille arches a long, thin brow and laughs quietly, the back of her hand going up to partially smother the sound. It's too loud in the den to be heard too much, but far be it from her to let slip her good mood for the moment. The chuckle ends as a scoff. ]

Not worth it, I'd say. The man doesn't have much to part with.

[ He isn't wearing anything drab but nothing worth gambling for either, unless the house wants to completely humiliate him. Sebille chances a glance at the man who's spoken to her, giving an inquisitive but amicable tilt of her head. The thought of watching the next card play vanishes for just a moment, though she's listening for any tell-tale signs of loss over yonder. ]

It'd be a poor show of entertainment; just another beggar losing his earnings. But if there's some heftier fish swimming around... [ She casts her eyes around for just a moment, looking for someone who might have more coin to lose. Someone who perhaps could stand for a bit of loss. ] ...that might be more fun to watch, if you're keen.

[preyed]

Typical.

[ It is so like humans and their kind to be embroiled in bloodshed, to cause pain to others.

There's conflict simmering in her chest. She does not know these people, does not know these children; in truth, she thought her heart too blackened and hollow to care much for anyone or anything any longer. But it's wrong, she thinks. All of this. She's heard these children could be working in the mines, and now having lost a source of work, here they are...begging with smiles and songs.

It makes her skin crawl.

Her gaze flicks over to the man who spoke. ] What war is being waged here that isn't over petty territorial disputes? Is it worth the loss, the displacement? The damage?

[ It is not her problem to raise but it strikes a bit too close to home. ]

[preyed]

[ And what a good use of time it is, to hone one's skills of perception. Sebille has one chin resting in her hand while she leans on the railing that overlooks this particular circle of tables, close enough to get a good look at every player but just far enough to not be obtrusive.

Her gold, cat-like eyes hold a hint a mischief that is far from innocent. They're the eyes of a predator in lazy repose, waiting for something more to catch her attention. ]

He's already been hooked by the fishing line but doesn't see it. Once he realizes, he won't have much of a choice. [ She hums, considering the metaphor. ] Or he's wandered too far into the den and doesn't realize yet that he's not a proper lion.

[ With a roll of her shoulders, Sebille gives a half-hearted shrug, fixing her gaze on him instead. ] His clothes make it seem like he doesn't have much to bet with, but he keeps playing because he's gotten lucky a few times. It makes a man arrogant.

[ It makes him prone to mistakes. ]

[farr]

[ it seems like plenty a good time to simply walk away and admit defeat, but that's where rita tends to linger, aggravated with the things that require an extra push of effort while simultaneously being too stubborn to let something go entirely without some proclamation of victory. her body posture already suggests the position of her struggle, arms slapping against her sides with the elevated frustration and her teeth gritting like she might go into a one-sided yelling match with the goat again.

that's when the woman appears with the offered hay, rita's brightening eyes darting between her face and the yellow stayed pieces. ]

Hay! Ha! [ she claps her hands excitedly, taking the offered piece before she begins to wriggle it at the goat persistently. ] You're my hero. Is that what these stinkers eat? I figured they nuzzled their big mouths on anything.

[ though the goat doesn't dart over, it does seem more curious than it had been moments earlier, now sticking its head forward to cautiously sniff at the hay in her hand.
rita giggles with delight at the compliment, feigning modesty despite how pleased she is by it. ]

Well, it was many years ago, but I appreciate your flattery. [ not that she's done bragging. ] And they almost cast Deborah Kerr for that role. As if she could've snagged the nomination.

[farr]

[ there are certainly worse ways to be found like this, but by rita's definition, this should likely be considered high ranking amongst horrid predicaments. because what could be more awful than being found by a gorgeous young woman, fashionable and well dressed in the kind of glam that rita had once believed entirely foreign to this new world she'd stumbled into. though the sight of some kind of special telekinetic power doesn't entirely stun her (she's seen tricks like that plenty), it's in seeing how well controlled it is compared to her own embarrassing failure that makes her stomach sink even more, pieces of blobby skin at her skin against her palm struggling to be kept in place by her fingers.

truly, this is hardly a comforting sight for an aging washed-up actress, having to be rescued by someone whose entire look reminds her of just how much in the past she is.

rita manages to catch just enough of the view through one eye as she clears her throat, head still turned down as though there's still a chance to salvage her embarassing display. but the coin hovers before her, as if persistently taunting that she finally snatches it with her free hand just to put that to a stop. ]

My face is just fine, thank you very much. Just a momentary ... slip. [ there's a slight grit in her teeth, but rita's practiced her smiles enough to keep her calm masked tone mostly together. it's impressive enough to do while she simultaneously meditatively levels her breathing for a few passing seconds, as her skin shifts back into its natural place.

it's only then that she finally straightens her spine to stand back up on her feet, chin instinstively tilting up. if only the dirty wool dress didn't ruin the entire confident image. ]

Rita Farr. [ spoken with all the proud class she could muster, holding out her hand to offer back the coin. ] Though, I assure you, I may have lost my coin, but I'm hardly in need of your charity. And this sack, as you call it, is merely a costume worn out of respect to the good people of Solvunn.