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.

Go to top ⇑

Welcome to the Free Cities

Dry warmth hits you at once as you're set on a hard floor of dull ruddy stone. Men and women in unfamiliar uniforms of brown and red leather stand in a semi-circle around a small pool of water - the very pool you were just pulled from. The water is still now, rimmed in pale gold tiles with odd symbols etched into them. Across it is a raised pedestal with a card bearing an Arcana symbol.

A guard covers you with a simple robe and returns to their place in the semi-circle. Before you stands another woman, dressed in a more elaborate and decorated uniform than the others. A sword rests at her hip. She carries an air of authority as she approaches you with a nod and a warm smile. "Sorry about the circumstances. Take a minute, catch your breath. I'm Prime Minister Marlo Reiner and you're in The Free Cities. That nice lady over there will explain everything to you and get you settled."

A robed mage off to the side approaches to help you up. She brings you out of the cave through a corridor that angles upwards until you emerge in what looks like some kind of storage facility. You'll learn you're in the Cadens Desert Outpost 003, a military base on the outskirts of the major city of Cadens. You're told the world is in delicate and dangerous times, and you're needed to help. You're important and they're very grateful you're here.

◎ Surroundings

While you're currently at the outpost just outside of the city proper, Cadens on the whole is a large bustling city. The climate is hot and dry, the 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.

Go to top ⇑

Welcome to Solvunn

You're in a grassy clearing amid a circle of large stone slabs stacked to look like doorways. In the middle is the same glimmering pool you were just pulled from. An elderly mage stands before an ornate altar. He holds an old leather-bound book in one hand and the other is a card bearing an arcana symbol. "I detect no ill will from the gods," he says. "It seems we've been blessed with success."

Those who gathered all breathe a sigh of relief and now seem pleased. One offers you some clothes of leather and knitted wool that seem to fit you perfectly. A rough-looking man steps forward once you're dressed and motions with his head outside of the stone circle. His speech is informal, his consonants harsh.

"Hold your horses, I can see all those questions coming about! Rowan March, at your service. I'm one of the council members of Solvunn. There's a lot to discuss, but it's best talked about over a hot meal." He leads you to a horse-drawn carriage and helps you up into the back. He talks the entire ride to the center of the Primary Settlement. You're told that the world hangs upon the brink of disaster and that there are those in this world who are happy to see it fall to ruin with their meddling.

You're important. The gods have graced them with your presence. They're delighted you're here.

◎ Surroundings

The Primary Settlement is full of greenery, blessed with the fresh ocean breeze. Now in 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.

Go to top ⇑

Questions & Answers

If after reading these you're still unsure about anything, or your question wasn't covered, please feel free to hit up our Questions thread below!

How many slots are open?

Please check the Taken page for how many player, franchise, and canon slots are available. Activity Check will be processed before applications open, so the count may change between now and then. Existing players can apply for a second character without restriction.

How do I choose a scenario for my character?

Pick whichever situation appeals to you most. Which territory your character is drawn into has nothing to do with their morality, beliefs, or how highly they regard themselves and their accomplishments. Anyone can be put into any one of the situations.

What happens if my character refuses to comply with the NPCs?

They will be forgiven for their moment of panic or anger if they have one, and leaders will try to calm them and persuade them further. If they put up too much of a fight and/or start actively attacking anyone, they will be warned that everyone is willing to put them back in the well where they came from (see below), and if they continue to fight they will make good on that promise.

My character intends on causing a lot of trouble (destroying parts of the cities, murdering the NPCs, etc.), what would happen to them?

Characters who make too much trouble for the mages and other NPCs would be thrown back into the well (which will mean drowning in the void, not returning home). Brawling with other PCs and causing minor damage is fine and will be greeted with a cranky attitude and intervention from various NPC guards, and there will be plenty of opportunity for destruction and murder later, but for now, the Abraxans have no desire to keep huge liabilities around.

Is the power loss for characters permanent?

No, but it does take a week or so for their powers to be back in full, and certain powers (determined on a case-by-case basis) may require nerfs. If your character has world-breaking powers, please discuss with the mods what modifications may be necessary.

Can my character leave the bounds of the territory?

No, they must remain within the territory except when visiting Nocwich. Review the Travel section on each territory's Setting page for where characters can go within their borders.

Can my character eventually change territories?

Yes, but tensions between the major territories are at an all-time high. Doing so is possible, but will require some plotting with the mods once you're in-game!

How much will my choice of scenario affect my character's plot later on?

This choice will determine where your character initially lives as well as the bias of the information they receive from NPCs (although other PCs can and most likely will give it to them a bit more straight). It will also affect your character's day-to-day life and development. Characters who seek technological advancements or combat will find more of it in the Free Cities. Those interested in court politics, the Singularity, and magic will have the most access in Thorne. Anyone who wishes to uncover the secrets of the Gods and other mysteries will best do so in Solvunn.

This is not to say characters are locked out of other scenarios completely. With effort and the help of friends, anything is possible! Don't get too anxious about your choice. Every character in each scenario can work their way towards many individual goals. Additionally, once in-game, the Horizon, Nocwich, and certain events will let characters make easy cross-border CR.

Are TDM threads mandatory for my application?

No, you may use other samples, but we encourage you to post to the TDM and get a feel for this game and its mechanics. You'll still need to choose one of the three scenarios on your application.

What if I haven't settled on a sign yet?

Your Arcana sign won't have an immediate impact on your character beyond them seeing it on themselves or being told what it is by the locals. You're welcome to disregard those aspects in your prompts or try out different signs.

Can my character go to the Horizon?

For the purposes of the TDM, we suggest against using the Horizon. If you're interested in threading with characters outside your borders on the TDM, you can utilize the Nocwich prompt which will allow all characters to meet in person regardless of arrival scenario. In situations where Nocwich is closed, you can put up prompts for multiple scenarios, though only the one you choose in the application can become canon.

What about making use of the network?

Much like Horizon they would need to be introduced to it by another PC, as no NPCs would be aware of the network or be able to access it. We would advise against using this mechanic for TDM top-levels.

Can I try out more than one arrival scenario on the same TDM?

Yes, although only threads taking place in the arrival scenario you formally choose upon applying can count as canon. However, you're welcome to try out as many as you like on the TDM.

Go to top ⇑

Comments

Daisy Johnson | Agents of SHIELD(Marvel Television) | Solvunn | Strength

[morethan084]

Arrival in Solvunn | (CW for mentions of strangulation and other violent injuries before coming here.) 

[One moment, Daisy was falling into a restless sleep, and the next she's floating in an unknown place. It feels like a vivid dream, or nightmare, as Daisy tries to scream. Calling out for Lincoln as she often does in her sleep these days, and for a moment she thinks he’s finally heard her from wherever she is, as a hand suddenly reaches for her and she grabs onto it without hesitation.

Stumbling, Daisy falls to her knees onto an unfamiliar stone floor. Gasping for air, she winces at how painful breathing is at the moment. Not just because she was seemingly drowning, but she was still recovering from a violent fight just a few hours prior in which she had almost been choked to death. Ears ringing, it takes Daisy a moment to hear someone talking about the gods. A gentle breeze rolls through, and that’s when she notices that she’s naked. All of her injuries are on display—namely a variety of bruises on her face, neck, and arms. 

Looking up for the first time from her spot on the floor, there’s a panicked look on her face, as she makes eye contact with the first person her eyes land on. If she weren't in so much pain, she would’ve gotten up immediately.]

Exploring

Helping Hand

[Many of the people Daisy has come across so far have been eager to talk with her or help her, which is why she tries to stay in the shadows. She’s not used to people looking at her and smiling, not when she’s a wanted fugitive back home. Daisy’s experience with God and anything to do with religion is complicated at best, and she’s already told a few people that their God has made a mistake, that she doesn’t belong here.

Seeing everyone working together to help fix broken shops and stalls leaves Daisy with a pit in her stomach. That urge to help them gnawing away at her because deep down, she cares a lot about people. And it’s why she’s hesitant to offer her help. She feels as though it’s better for everyone that she keeps her distance. She’s dangerous to be around. 

It’s not until someone is trying, and failing to hammer pieces of wood back together that she finally steps in. The wood clattering to the ground snaps her out of her negative thoughts, and she finds herself walking towards them without thinking.]

Here. I’ll hold it still while you hammer.

[Should she be up and moving around right now? Probably not. But it’s just another way her self-sabotaging comes through.]

Evening Feast

[The wool sweater she had been given is doing a good job of keeping Daisy warm as she’s ushered to the outdoor potluck by one of the townsfolk. She did her best to protest, but they did an even better job of tuning her out until she was seated next to someone and they were filling up the cup set in front of her.]

They really don’t seem to understand the meaning of the word ‘no’ around here.

[Daisy says dryly to the person next to her once the ‘helpful’ resident leaves to fill up her plate with food.]

Nocwich

Window shopping

[Despite being very wary of everything and everyone that Daisy has experienced here so far, she can’t help but be curious about this place that requires a portal and a pendant to enter. Maybe it was the talk of werewolves and vampires that piqued her curiosity. 

So when she hears word that the portal has opened, she’s one of the first to go through. With no weapons but her knowledge of martial arts to protect her, should these ‘vampires’ or ‘werewolves’ decide to cause trouble with her. Moving out of the way as someone rushes past her to reunite with a friend, she watches as they embrace tightly. Daisy’s thoughts immediately go to Simmons, and she has to look away from them.

Daisy wanders through the stalls, picking up something that says it contains vampire blood.]

I don’t want to know why anyone would need something like this.

[She says out loud before placing it back down.]

Hustling

[Having hustled quite a few times back in the day, Daisy finds herself drawn to the gambling den. It becomes clear quite quickly that a lot of people here are vampires, and for a while she watches them gamble in a variety of different games. Eventually, Daisy joins in when she spots someone who doesn’t appear to be a vampire join in on one of the games.]

Count me in too. 

[She says as she rises from her seat at the bar, taking her drink over to the table they were all seated at.]

I’ve never played before, have you?

Wildcard

[Have something else in mind? Feel free to write something below or PM me/message me on plurk morethan084 ! This applies to all of my prompts!]

nocwich

[sophos]

[ three days a month sometimes does not feel like enough time to play catch up, but annabeth still visits nocwich whenever it's open, at the very least for a change of scenery and break from the restrictions of thorne. ]

[ her first encounter with the blood products had gone similarly in the sense of bemusement over their miscellaneous uses, but she's not above a little teasing in her tone. just wait till this woman finds the blood wine. ]

Well. They are vampires. In the literal sense of the word. [ no metaphors here. ] Personally, I prefer looking through the werewolf yarn.

[morethan084]

[Not realizing that someone overheard her, Daisy doesn't think the younger woman is talking to her until she mentions werewolf yarn.]

What?

[Just as confused, if not more, she looks to her. Blanching a little when she remembers what she's currently wearing.]

...Does all of the yarn here come from werewolf fur?

[There's something so unnerving about the mere thought of wearing fur from a person. Well, half a person.]

[sophos]

[ annabeth tries not to laugh at the look on the woman's face. ]

I don't know if it's all of it. There's regular, sheep kind of yarn in the world, I promise.

But the werewolf yarn is surprisingly soft. [ and she's been learning how to knit! it's coming easily to her, thanks to her mother. ]

[morethan084]

[Daisy glances at the werewolf hair again before stepping out of the way for someone who seems to actually be interested in buying something here.]

So, what? Do they just shave it off themselves?

[If she still sounds doubtful of their existence, it's because she is.]

[sophos]

[ annabeth pauses. she can hear the skepticism in the woman's voice, but instead of reassuring the truth of it she's just going to continue casually chatting about it, finding it a little funny. ]

You know, I never asked. It always felt kinda rude? But I've never spoken to a werewolf outside of idle shop chatter for it to come up.

[ maybe it's an 'oh my god you can't just ask a werewolf if they shave' situation. ]

Evening Feast

[divinityfrompain]

Oh boy, you have no idea.

[ Julia smiles over at her. She has settled down next to her long enough to hear that and then hefts a big basket onto the table. Inside are fresh apples and people are quick to snatch them up. She gestures for Daisy to take one if she wants. They are very ripe and delicious. Julia smells like them too, she can't help it. Living at the orchard does that.

Her dark hair is plaited and she seems very comfortable there, giving a thumbs up when someone brings over something to drink. She knows by now there's no point in arguing with them. ]

You're new, right? So just to get why they're like this, they think we're chosen by their gods and sacred. They're going to act real weird about it. You get used to it, eventually.

[ There really is no way to stop them in cultville so Julia's given up. It doesn't help that she is literally chosen by a goddess here so that was a choice she made and they all acknowledge her that way. But the newbies are going to feel it too. Those first few months are awkward af. She offers a hand. ]

I'm Julia. I've been here almost a year.

[morethan084]

[Daisy watches the others around them snatch up an apple, some even taking two. She make eye contact with the woman before hesitantly reaching into the basket and taking one.]

Thanks.

[She doesn't take a bite out of it just yet, instead just holding onto it in her lap for now. In all honesty, she's not as hungry as she probably should be considering the day she's had.]

That obvious?

[Daisy asks wryly, glancing around them at the table. Most everyone is having conversations among each other, although a few briefly look towards the pair before turning away from them. Maybe it's the paranoia of having to constantly watch her back the last handful of months, but she goes visibly tense at the idea that they might be talking about her.

That tension in her body doesn't dissipate when the woman, Julia, explains why they're acting like this.]

Well their gods made a mistake choosing me.

[Unsurprisingly a few overhear her, but this time Daisy doesn't care that they're very clearly talking about her.]

A year?

[Sorry, Julia. She'll get to the introductions in a minute.]

[divinityfrompain]

It's a small community, new people stand out. Especially one of us.

[ Julia knows most of the people who live in the primary settlement now and in the second settlement due to her work on a shrine there. The Summoned aren't the hugest group, twentyish people, so that's easy to keep an eye on. She always watches out for newbie because this whole thing? Weird and wild in the start. Julia came out kicking and screaming when she arrived and trying to zap people, but without any powers.

The reply gets her attention and her expression softens, although it wasn't hard to begin with. She's a warm individual but she gets that this is more than a lot. ]

Nah, it's the Elders here who choose. Or they just reach into a multiverse soup and snag whoever they can. It's unclear. I'd like to say the gods leave us alone, but it's not true. They're meddlers when they want to be.

[ Maybe a year ago they were more hands off. Endrborrin in general is like that, her goddess is focused on what her work is, the spring. It's just a few of the gods who are more interested in making trouble, like Fred and the heralds. They only recently had the four heralds of war fucking around and the rest of them finding out. She hopes that won't come up again any time soon, for this woman's sake. It's a lot to come in on. ]

I'm not even one of the older people around here. I guess the Summoning started like over three years ago? And there are a few people who have been there that long.

[ Julia shrugs. ]

Sorry, there's honestly no way we can choose whether we stay or go right now.

[morethan084]

[It only occurs to Daisy now that she has no idea how many of them are here.]

Are there not a lot of us here?

[Setting the apple on the table next to her for now, she reaches for her cup to sniff at it before taking a sip. It's not a flavor she's familiar with, but it doesn't taste bad, even as it burns on the way down. She's going to take another sip when Julia mentions a word she wasn't expecting to hear.]

Multiverse? Like, multiple universes?

[She's heard of them, of course, but experiencing one first hand? That's a new one. Her head is spinning, because the more Daisy hears about this place the more she feels trapped. Downing the rest of whatever was in her cup, likely some kind of alcohol, she sets the now empty cup down on the table.]

So we're just here to appease the Elders and do whatever it is they want?

[divinityfrompain]

There's around twentyish of us here, and around the same in the other two, so there are probably like seventyish Summoned total. So now that I say it out loud, for a kidnapping, that is a pretty big number.

[ It's just that communal-wise, it doesn't feel gigantic, but maybe Julia is downplaying it. There aren't that many hedges either and that's what she was used to before this, but the magicians are widespread, or they were in her world, before it all went away. It's easy to memorize twenty people in a community like this. ]

Some of us are unique looking too, you can't miss us. Nanaue is a giant shark man, Rocket is a wise-cracking alien who looks like a raccoon, Nebula is a blue alien, and Himeka is a red-haired part-lizard woman.

[ Just throwing her into the deep end of the pool, but it's best she hears about it now than sees it for herself and is shocked. At least if she spots Nanaue or Rocket she won't flip out as if it's a surprise. Rocket in particular can be pretty defensive about standing out that way. Julia wants to set her up for success if she can, this whole thing is hard enough as it is. ]

Yeah, multiple universes. They exist, most of us are from different ones, you might spot someone you know, it's happened before. The Elders mostly just take us and then go 'do what you want' and we create a life here. They've rarely given us instruction.

arrival

[carmesi]

( sometimes, during the summoning ritual, wanda observes from a distance—as close as she's allowed to be—to 'assist' with those who just arrived. she figures it's a way to show the council her support, by immediately being there to show the newly summoned the ropes.

she makes eye contact with the woman, notices the panic, and it is only because of a surge of instinct that she pushes past the threshold of what she is allowed; the spell is no longer in effect, and wanda is sure rowan won't mind that she takes the garments that would otherwise be offered to the woman, and pulls the knitted wool cloak over her shoulders, covering her up. )

Come on. You can pull yourself together by the carriage.

[morethan084]

[Daisy's about ready to sprint as the woman approaches her, until she realizes she's not going to hurt her. The cloak provides not only coverage, but also some warmth against the crisp breeze on her wet skin. There's something familiar about the other woman, but Daisy's mind is swimming with too many other thoughts to pin point why.]

Thank you.

[She finally says, getting to her feet by pushing up with her injured arm. The splint that she had been given by the SHIELD medics was long gone. Gripping onto the cloak so it doesn't slip off, Daisy follows her towards the carriage.]

What is this place?

[carmesi]

( back in the grassy clearing, the summoning spell begins anew, with its hums and chants; all that is but a noise in the background as they make it to the carriage and wanda helps the woman find purchase at the back, where a few flat slabs of wood allow for a seat.

wanda lets her be for a moment, unfurling the leather-and-wool attire meant for her. )

This place is a commune called Solvunn. The world at large — it's called Abraxas.

( the woman's accent is very american, a contrast to wanda's own eastern european one. she has dropped the learned americanisms some time ago. she hands over the trousers and shirt. )

This is very basic clothing, but we can find you better ones when we get to the settlement. It will keep you warm for now. ( —and that much is the most important part— ) Put them on while I find you some boots.

[morethan084]

[The chanting doesn't go unnoticed by Daisy, who briefly turns to look at what is happening behind them. The man, who she now knew wasn't Lincoln, is reaching into the water again to pull someone else out. She feels sick to her stomach as she numbly leans against the back of the carriage. Not wanting to sit even though her body is screaming at her to.

It takes her a moment to absorb what the woman is saying to her, but it finally does and she finds herself wanting to ask even more questions.]

World. This--

[Sure, this place doesn't look familiar to her. But to be a different planet entirely?]

We're not on Earth?

[Taking the sweater and pants from her, Daisy watches her momentarily leave to find boots. In that time she moves behind the carriage so there are less eyes on her while she drops the cloak to get dressed. She has to stop for a moment when the pain of trying to use her arms to pull up her pants leaves her feeling breathless. But by the time the woman comes back, she's no longer naked.]

[carmesi]

( the unfortunate thing about being brought as a newly summoned is how different everything is, and wanda hasn't met a single individual who—when coming here—hasn't had a hundred of the same questions regarding abraxas and their purposes her.

as someone who has been here for almost three years, wanda also finds that there is neither simple nor easy way to explain it.

she comes back with a pair of woolen socks and some boots that may be a size too big for the woman, but better that than nothing at all. wanda tosses the boots on the ground near her feet, but passes over the socks onto daisy's hands. )

Have you some concept of the multiverse? Or at least of alternate universes? Infinite as they may be, perhaps it is easier to understand if you consider Abraxas as the 'start' of it. The Summoning ritual draws from any of these universes, bringing chosen ones to help out.

( —well, wanda isn't sure they are doing a lot of helping. but that's a thought for another day. )

Are you in pain?

Evening feast

[anineiron]

[Having been dragged here himself, Luke can say that, no, they don't really do the word 'no'.]

I get the feeling they left it out of their vocabulary on purpose.

[He shrugs.] I'm still figuring out the easiest way to find personal space without feeling like I might need to climb one of the trees.

[morethan084]

[Daisy, for the first time all day, smiles. It doesn't reach her eyes, but it's there.]

Might not be a bad idea.

[Glancing to one of the trees, Daisy leans away when the stranger comes back with a plate full of food for her. Before she can even say anything, the person is grabbing the plate of the man sitting next to her to go do the same.]

Are you new here too?

[Daisy knew she wasn't the only one to be dragged here today.]

[anineiron]

Can't hurt anyway. If you pick the right one.

[He's used to making small forts and various things after all this time. It's just part of the deal as a demigod.]

Yeah. [He lowers his voice just a little before saying.] Kind of used to the god worship, but it's not really...something I'm overly comfortable with.

[Back to regular] Still getting used to everything. [Like being alive still.] Guess at least there's things to do to distract from the...everything, though.

[morethan084]

Can't say I've had to climb many trees, but it sounds like you have?

[She gives him an assessing gaze, as if she'll be able to glean anything from his appearance.]

Neither am I.

[Daisy admits, not thinking that he might be the one used to being worshiped as opposed to Daisy's experience of growing up in a Catholic orphanage. She snorts out a laugh when he mentions there being things here to distract him from everything.]

What? Like the goat races?

[anineiron]

Comes with the territory.

[With absolutely no explanation of what the territory is. But it isn't like he's going to come out with, hey, I'm Luke and I'm a recovering demigod. There is a long scar going from the bottom of his outer right eye to his jaw that she's free to notice. There's not all that much else remarkable.]

I was beginning to think I was the only one.

[The being worshipped thing is a bit off, but the worshipping gods is pretty basic back home at least. The mention of the goat races makes him smile at least.]

Goat races, chores. Whole...thing. [Said with the appropriate, vague hand gestures.] I don't think I'm much of a goat race kind of guy, but people seem really into it?

hustling!

[godshattering]

[ Claude's taken to trips to the gambling dens every so often on these weekends, and - if he's honest about it - mostly for pretending he hasn't played games before just to see how quickly the rest of the table catches on. There's also the challenge of picking up something he's not played before while in the midst of it just to entertain himself.

On this particular day, it's the latter he's leaning towards while wandering through the tables in search of nothing in particular. There's the games he's come to recognize as classics, and then there's one table that's got spectators around the full seats having what seems to be a great time if the cheering and groans depending on what happens for who they're rooting for. When a couple seats vacate because one vampire proclaims he needs a drink to forget about the coins he'd lost and his friend pats him on the shoulder in consolation, that's all he needs to slip through the crowd into one of those chairs.

And someone else has the same thought it seems when Claude looks up from inspecting the dice for part of the game to a face he doesn't know. Not that it means much considering it's difficult to meet everyone everywhere, but he offers her a cheerful smile. ]

Can't say I have even after many visits here since this one is a new one to me. But a little mystery's always fun, isn't it?

[ To him, anyway! Holding out his hand with the dice in it, he means to tip them into her hand to check them out while the rest of the table is still bantering about the game's last round. ]

From what I've gathered the game uses these and cards and looks plenty lively, so I'd say we're in for a good time with any luck. Seems it's played in pairs, too, so we might also be in for a little teamwork.

[morethan084]

Depends on the mystery.

[Daisy says, briefly distracted as she looks over to see where that vampire who had mentioned needing a drink was going. She only turns her attention back when she finds him at the bar, and trying to find someone to drink. Daisy isn't familiar with vampires or werewolves, aside from what she's seen in movies. There's always an alleyway and a unsuspecting involved.

Taking the dice from him in her hand, he may notice some bruising around her wrist and her knuckles when she turns her hand over to feel the weight of the dice.]

Looks like. How many times have you come here?

[godshattering]

[ That gets a grin from him, since - point well taken. There's plenty of mysteries around Abraxas he would've been much happier not knowing about even with his propensity to want to uncover everything and anything, but. That might be a little too deep of a conversation to have around the table as the other gaming pairs are set up and begin teasing each other about imminent defeat.

When she takes the dice, Claude casts a cursory glance downward - and notices those abrasions right before he turns his gaze back to the table around them. The dealer begins to deal out cards to each player to start the game, and he picks his up with a hum. ]

Just about every weekend since this place opened a couple years ago, aside from when it was closed for a bit a few months back. Coming to Nocwich, that is, since it's a good way to see other Summoned who live elsewhere besides the Free Cities where I am. And you arrived in...?

[morethan084]

[Daisy remembers Julia telling her that some of the people have been here for three years, but this is the first time she's met someone that might've been here for that long.]

Why was it closed?

[She asks, picking up her cards with one hand to look them. She's not exactly sure yet if she has a good hand or not, but she listens as the game is explained before answering his question.]

Solvunn. So this is really the only time we can see everyone from the different territories?