EVENT #9: NOCWICH - IC POST

[abraxasmods]

Event #9 - Nocwich

go to the OOC event info and plotting post or the the IC wrap-up post

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Throughout August, each faction is in a constant bustle. Between upping their borders' defenses and the arrival of Nocwich's emissaries, there's been no shortage of activity.

On AUGUST 15, a few days before the portals open, the Summoned will receive invitations delivered to their doors. Inside the wax-sealed envelope, they will find:

◎ A handwritten letter addressed to them by name. The letter formally welcomes each person to the grand opening of Oleuni Square, the first neutral territory formed in Nocwich between Ikorr and Luna. If you happened to donate your blood last month, a small thank you will be included, as well.

◎ A unique enchanted pendant that will allow the wearer to enter the portal. You must have this pendant to come and go from Nocwich.

◎ A card bearing their Arcanum. On the back is a painted pink crystal with the letter E. Exchange this with Lady Elin to have your fortune told. Those newly Summoned in August will have an additional handwritten note that says, Your time has not yet come. Answers may arrive upon the next full moon.

◎ Two invitation cards: one to LUNAR POND and one to the NIGHTBLOOM. Use this to enter the ceremony you choose on the night of the full moon.

Arriving at the Portals

When AUGUST 20 approaches, there will be carriages or mages with teleportation spells ready to take everyone to the portal location depending on the faction.

In the FREE CITIES, the trip will take 1 hour each way by carriage. As a result, it's suggested you make plans to stay a few days at one of Nocwich's fine inns unless you want to make the trip daily. Of course, if you don't plan on returning to Nocwich more than once or twice, the trip may not be too troublesome.

In THORNE, portals will be available just outside the castle in a more secluded area around the back.

In SOLVUNN, a short walk will take you to a shrine in the woods where a portal has been activated nearby. If you're coming from the Tertiary or Secondary Settlement, you may need to make a slightly longer trip to get there.

Oleuni Square

Newly formed as a pact between Ikorr and Luna, Oleuni Square was designed as a welcoming neutral space for anyone to visit.

While the werewolves and vampires do not intermingle much throughout the week, this is nonetheless the first time they've ever shared a space. A bit of tension can be felt here and there, but for the most part, those who are part of this event have agreed to put aside their differences to put forth their best selves for the Summoned.

Both the vampires and werewolves are curious about the Summoning process. They'll ask the Summoned about it if the topic arises, though they won't be pushy. It seems they just want to know: is it really possible to bring forth someone from another world? Someone of the faction's choosing?

About the Vampires

Unlike what some legends and myths state, the vampires of Ikorr are a species unto themselves. A vampire cannot turn or change a human into one of its own. Physically, all vampires possess visible fangs. Their eyes can change color depending on their age into a glowing orange, red, green, or blue and their pupils may even vanish entirely. They are extraordinarily long-lived provided they remain out of the sun. Entering the sun ages them rapidly and brief exposure can take decades or even centuries off of their lives.

They are fairly secretive, fearing the destruction of their kind. Much of their written knowledge is guarded in heavily secured libraries and vaults. It is not currently known if they can procreate. It is entirely possible that the vampires in Ikorr are those who have been there from the very beginning and that there have been no new vampires for an extremely long time. Rumor has it that a vampire child is considered a rare miracle and is greatly celebrated when one arrives. Regardless, there appear to be no vampire children present anywhere in Nocwich, at least not where the Summoned can see.

Vampires require blood to survive and claim they no longer feed on unwilling humans. This would appear to be true, as very few humans enter Nocwich as it is. Further, the vampires seem to have found a way to closely replicate the taste of human blood using animal blood and a combination of enchantments and herbs. It isn't perfect, and those with a special sense of smell or who are familiar with real human blood will recognize the subtle difference. According to the vampires, they don't experience unusual blood cravings. It's simply a necessary part of their diet. Nonetheless, there are rumors that sometimes those who are seen entering Ikorr do not leave, though these seem to be tall tales more than anything. That said, Nocwich is a city like any other and has a variety of predators and criminals in its midst. Danger can befall anyone.

About the Werewolves

Similar to the vampires, the werewolves of Luna are also a species unto themselves. They do not pass on a curse nor were they ever cursed or once human. The full moon enhances their transformation process, but many werewolves have learned to control their shifting ability and can choose to change at will regardless of the lunar cycle. While they don't explicitly need to live in darkness, many are now used to this lifestyle and prefer it. Being in daylight can dull or trouble their senses. It also carries the risk of damaging their pelts, something they guard carefully as it's their only means of shifting into their wolf form.

Those who reside in Solvunn might notice familiar motifs in runes, clothing, tools, and even architecture. This is because some of the original settlers of Solvunn were once werewolves from Nocwich. Over time, the werewolf aspect of their lineage has largely faded, but some traditions remain including their preference for oral history and storytelling, as well as their more rustic lifestyle. Once in a while, some werewolves might travel to Solvunn to attend a special solstice celebration. They won't announce themselves as werewolves and blend in well, so they're easy to miss. They'll often take livestock with them when they leave.

Unlike the vampires, the occasional werewolf child can be seen, though not as many as one might expect. The werewolves are tightlipped about it for the most part, but some do speak of the moonlit years, a time when their numbers were thriving. It's unclear what's happened if anything, but the werewolves as a whole are extraordinarily protective of their young ones.

The Marketplace

Making up the majority of the Square, the Marketplace consists of a series of outdoor stalls and a few actual shops. Whatever you can think of can be found here, from jewelry to clothing to food and wine. There are fancier eateries where one can order a meal and cheap street vendors. Much of what's available is of fairly high quality. Nocwich has put their best forward and only those who would make a good impression have been allowed to set up in the Square.

The list below is not all-encompassing, but it'll give you a sense of what you'll find.

Sights & Sounds

◎ THE MAIN STAGE. An outdoor stage will feature a variety of musical performances, dances, and plays. There is no need to buy tickets or reserve a seat. Simply come and go as you please, though it's of course polite not to leave in the middle of a performance. Refreshments can be purchased at nearby stalls.

◎ GAMBLING DEN. While there are a few under-the-table wagers being made all over, the main gambling den is run by the vampires. Complimentary tokens will cover the first few rounds. You'll need to purchase more if you want to keep playing seriously. Nocwich is no different than any place, though, and chances are you'll find that the house always wins in the end. Still, if you know when to stop you might find yourself with a little extra spending money!

◎ SHOPS & STALLS. In addition to the wares brought over last month, visitors will find an even greater selection of wine, meat, jewelry, herbs and flowers unique to the land, and special elixirs that offer different effects from cures to recreation. Some of the ingredients in these items may contain werewolf hair, vampire blood, or other unknowns. There doesn't appear to be much by way of regulations in Nocwich, so take extra care. Nothing will cause major harm, but you might end up with a more potent piece of candy than you were expecting...especially if it looks green and faintly glowing.

◎ HOT SPRINGS. Hot springs are used among the werewolves to ease their aching muscles before and after a transformation. A hot spring is available near the edge of the water for anyone to visit at any time. A few torches have been lit for the sake of their visitors. Do note, however, that the werewolves have little modesty and expect the same of those who join them. If you insist on keeping a few scraps of clothing, you'll be looked at strangely.

◎ SPAS. Near the hot springs, spa treatments will be available. Hot stones, massages, and aromatic herbs are all options for you to try. There will also be wine and herbal teas served while you're relaxing. You may experience this alone or you can go in pairs.

◎ TATTOOS. Due to their quick-healing nature, tattoos are popular among both the werewolves and the vampires. A couple of tattoo shops are available, where anyone can get a tattoo of any kind. For an extra fee, the ink can be imbued with the sap of a special flower that gives the design a faint glow under the moonlight.

◎ YARN & WOVEN ITEMS. Werewolves shed a great amount. A few enterprising individuals have spun the fur into yarn to make knitted shawls, gloves, blankets, and socks. The resulting wool is surprisingly soft and keeps the wearer warm without overheating them. It's also highly absorbent and quick to dry, making it an ideal washcloth.

Lady Elin's Divinations

To the east of the square sits Lady Elin's fortune-telling tent. It's modest and plain, without any of the flashy trimmings the other seers have. The only thing advertising her business is a single wooden sign. She possesses no equipment beyond a single crystal embedded into a round disc and a few candles. Those who are sensitive to magic will be able to sense the hum of power from her. Whoever she is, she appears to be the real deal - or at least has a significant amount of magic compared to others of her kind.

Curiously, any of the Summoned who pass her by will receive a look, almost as though she recognizes you or senses something familiar in you. As the Summoned, you are the only ones whom Lady Elin will actively encourage to get a reading. She may even insist on it if you hesitate. She does not seem interested in performing readings for anyone else. Her presence is calming and she's soft-spoken, if serious. While she will not explicitly say such, it's as if she has something she wants to tell each of the Summoned - something she can only reveal through a reading.

To get a reading, all anyone has to do is hand her the tarot card received in the envelope.

Comment here to receive a personalized reading. Should they have any further questions, Lady Elin will tell them their time is up and the crystal has no more answers to offer.

Be sure to request a reading before AUGUST 25th at 11:59 PM ET! This is to help us make sure all the readings are given and wrapped on time.

Hunting Woods

The Hunting Woods are dark and haunting. Anyone is welcome, but the guardians of the woods make it clear that you enter at your own risk. Other predators hunt alongside you and may see you as competition or even prey. Any form of lighting is not allowed as it chases away the wildlife.

As most of the Summoned are expected not to be carrying large hunting weapons with them, the guardians will lend fine-crafted weapons for those who wish to hunt. These weapons are of the same quality their hunters use. You can choose between a crossbow, a bow and arrow, or a spear.

Have trouble in the dark? There are options for those who can't see without firelight: merchants sell eye drops that will enhance the user's sight in the dark for a few hours. There are also goggle-like glasses that serve the same purpose for anyone who doesn't trust putting things in their eyes, though these run the risk of breaking in a fight. Whatever you decide, just take care in these woods. They are not for the unskilled nor the amateur hunter.

Much of the flora and fauna in the Hunting Woods have adapted to the dark. Ferns grow low to the ground, flowers bloom under the moonlight, and there is a large variety of mushrooms. Some are edible, but many are not - so don't eat what you shouldn't. For an idea of what creatures you can find in these woods, check the Nocwich section of the Bestiary. (Thank you everyone for your contributions!)

Night of the Moon

On AUGUST 26, the moon will shine bright and round in the sky. During this time, the Summoned will be invited to one of two ceremonies: Lunar Pond and the Nightbloom Ballroom.

Lunar Pond promises a beautiful and elegant moonlit night with the werewolves of Luna and offers participants the chance to earn a blessing that will strengthen their hearts. The Nightbloom, meanwhile, promises an evening of luxury with the vampires of Ikorr and the chance to witness what the vampires call the Blooming. It is said all those who are fortunate enough to see this event will find their path lit more brightly than others.

To attend one or the other, simply gather in the middle of the Square when the time comes and step through the appropriate portal. The Square will be closed while the ceremonies are happening. If you do not wish you attend, you must return home. It is not possible to remain in the Square or in Nocwich. Otherwise, choose the portal to Ikorr or Luna and enjoy your time! Carriages will be waiting after the portals to take guests the rest of the way to their destination.

At Lunar Pond

Hidden within some dense forests, Lunar Pond is more than just a pond. The vast wooded area is lit with delicate flowers and fireflies that pulse gently with life. Due to the thickness of the trees, the moonlight reflects the brightest off of the pond, giving it an ethereal glow. Additional glowing flowers have been placed around the forest to make a path for the visiting Summoned, like blooming lanterns. Carved wooden benches and tables have been placed around the area for seating, as well as natural tree stumps, boulders, and logs.

A large space for dancing has been cleared out, and music will be going all night. The werewolves favor folk sounds and wood instruments not unlike what's common to Solvunn. There's nothing formal about the dancing, as the point is to enjoy yourself. Set partners are rare. Most of the locals will dance in large groups or switch partners regularly within the space of a single song, making the experience a bit chaotic to watch. As the night wears on, it's not unusual for the dancing grounds to get a little rowdy - though in a friendly, celebratory way.

REFRESHMENTS
In the middle of the clearing is a large buffet table. Refreshments include a variety of raw meat and fish delicacies similar to tartare, ceviche, and carpaccio. The hosts will assure anyone who seems nervous that these are entirely safe for human consumption.

For those not convinced, there's also a variety of roasted poultry, steaks, delicately steamed and smoked fish, barbecued eels, and pies. Dishes of root vegetables and mushrooms such as tarts, soups, and stews are also available, along with a fine selection of mead and wine. Sharing a meal is important to the werewolves, and the amount of food and drink available demonstrates this. This doesn't mean the food lacks care, though. Presentation is equally important, and each plate or bowl is displayed with the appropriate garnish and decorations.

MOON LANTERNS
Upon entry, each person will be given a small lightweight lantern made of unusual reflective material and a piece of parchment. Write down the name of someone important to you - someone present in your life right now in this world - and place it inside the lantern. There are also paints and ink available if you wish to decorate the outside of the lantern. It isn't required, but personalizing your lantern in some way is encouraged.

Once completed, the lanterns will be set aside within a carefully watched tent for the decorations to dry. It would appear the werewolves take guarding the lanterns seriously, and no one will be allowed to enter the tent.

BLIND TASTING
Ever adventurous, the werewolves have set up a blind tasting tent. All the food and drink here are unlabeled and enchanted with a spell that makes it difficult to see what it is.

Enjoy dining alone? Too bad, because this requires a partner. If you don't want to choose a partner, the werewolves will choose for you. You'll be asked to choose your partner's meal based on what you can vaguely discern from the blurry and obscured view of the available dishes and drink, and they'll do the same for you. You might get something you enjoy, it might be horrific. The adventure is the point so these dishes won't be mundane, and are likely to contain something a bit strange, whether that's extreme spice, an unusual animal part, or an untested vegetable. While the cooks are attempting to make an edible yet experimental dish, their idea of edible might not be the same as yours...so although nothing will be dangerous or make you ill, the taste can be another matter.

Of course, you can give up and tap out at any time. Those who commit to clearing their plate, however, will be rewarded with bragging rights and an embellished drinking horn.

THE TRANSFORMATION
Partway into the night, attending guests will be invited to the clearing before the pond and given the lantern you made earlier. Here, a small group of werewolves will take their place in the center. Each werewolf is covered only in their pelt, a thick coat of fur that wraps around their body. As the moon shines upon them, the pelt begins to stretch and mold over their bodies like a second skin that melds into their form. Their limbs elongate, bones snapping and skin splitting. Within just a few short minutes, several large wolves now stand before the audience.

Take your lantern and follow the transformed wolves to the edge of the pond. Here, you can set the lantern on the water. As it floats, the full moon will light it up. If you pay attention, you might feel a warmth inside you - and the person whose name you wrote might feel the same, too, even if they're not with you at the ceremony. The werewolves refer to this as the moon's blessing, a promise of protection for the days to come.

At the Nightbloom

Rising through the fog in Ikorr, the Nightbloom is a grand castle that boasts an exquisite grand ballroom within its vast walls. Dancing is a given - and although elegant, it is certainly not stiff. The dance floor quickly becomes a whirlwind of swirling fabric from the vampires' natural grace and speed. Plenty of plush couches have been set aside for attendees to rest their feet, have a drink, and chat.

On either side, two curved staircases lead to the upper floor where guests can explore a collection of prized sculptures, paintings, and other art pieces. Some of the art is broken or worn, some are in pristine condition, and others still may even register as quite ugly depending on your taste. Nonetheless, every piece holds a lot of history and the vampires consider every artwork an important part of their past. None of the art is labeled, and most of the locals are reluctant to share too much about their history. Most questions will be answered with a coy, Art is how you see it.

REFRESHMENTS
Favoring elaborate flower arrangements, the long dining tables are neatly set with candles and refreshments. As the vampires largely subsist on blood, eating for them is less about sustenance and more about the experience. There's no shortage of food, but each item is delicate, meant to be eaten in one bite. The variety is unmatched. Some of the ingredients have been imported from elsewhere in Abraxas: fruits and herbs that couldn't possibly grow without sunlight.

More important than the food, though, are the drinks. The blood-infused wines and cocktails are the most popular of among the vampires, though there are non-blood varieties for those who wish to stick with something more familiar. You can serve yourself or ask one of the attendants to make you a drink of your choosing. Mead and ales are also available, but in smaller quantities and with less variety.

THE FLOWER
In the center of a guarded room sits a large flowering plant. From the plant are smaller blossoms, all of which are budded and not yet in full bloom. At a glance, despite its size and ethereal blue hue, it seems unimpressive with its petals tightly closed. Nonetheless, an aura of magic hums from it, a gentle sensation.

As a Summoned, you'll be invited upon entry to take one of the smaller blossoms and to keep it with them. Approaching the flower, you'll find yourself drawn to one bloom in particular, for reasons that can't be explained. That will be the blossom to take. Slip it into your pocket or wear it in your hair. It doesn't appear to matter what you do with it, the flower can't be crushed and it won't wilt...though its petals remain tightly closed for now.

DANCING LESSONS
Find yourself a partner and step into one of the side rooms if you want to have a lesson in a unique form of ballroom dancing. That is to say, you will be floating a few short feet off the ground once inside the enchanted room, giving the entire experience a weightless feel. The instructor is an encouraging and soft-spoken gentleman who will guide each person through each step no matter their skill level. He's exceptionally patient, willing to work with the most difficult of students, and overall enjoys his craft thoroughly.

Feel free to change partners between lessons if you wish, and take on whichever role you like - or try both leader and follower. Be careful: if you're too stiff or lose your footing, you run the risk of sinking through the enchantment and hitting the floor. It won't be far enough to injure and the floors have been cushioned, but your ego might be bruised.

Those who succeed in completing at least one full dance without tumbling to the ground will receive a jeweled music box.

THE BLOOMING
Partway through the night, all attending guests will be invited to the room where the flower sits. Those who took a bloom will be asked to bring it out and hold it. Slowly, the frosted glass ceiling above begins to fade, growing clear and allowing the moonlight to stream through directly onto the flower. As it does, the bud begins to open, revealing glowing orange petals that fill the room with a soft light.

You'll find at the same time, the blossom in your hand begins to unfurl and bloom, too. Its glow is smaller but no less bright, and a rush of warmth will fill you. The Blooming lasts only a few brief minutes. Then the large flower will close again - but not the blossoms. While their glow will fade, their petals remain open and vibrant. Be sure to keep this flower safe.

FOREWARNING

Nothing ever stays quiet for long. Near the end of the full moon ceremonies, officials from each faction will reach out to their Summoned who are in Nocwich.

In NOCWICH at the ceremonies only, two couriers will make a delivery shortly after the main event finishes (either the wolf transformations in Luna or the Blooming in Ikorr). They will discreetly slip it to your character, and will not linger to answer any questions. Once all deliveries are made, the couriers will seemingly melt into the crowd and vanish.

Those who are not attending the ceremonies will not receive the package. Unfortunately, there is no time to search for those who are not in Nocwich, so faction leaders have concentrated their efforts on the ceremonies where the majority of the Summoned are expected to be.

The Assignment

If you're chosen as a delegate, the below won't apply to you. Your scenario will be outlined under The Delegates.

Each person will receive a package containing a small note and a particular item. Along with detailed instructions on how to carry out your assigned task, the note will inform you of the following things:

◎ A potential threat to faction officials in Nocwich has been found. This threat may include one of the Summoned delegates of the same faction. The nature of this threat is unknown, so preventive measures for defense are being taken. This task is not meant to cause harm to another directly, only to protect.

◎ As the threat is believed to be coming from a rival faction, discretion is of utmost importance. It is strongly recommended that the Summoned do not discuss it with anyone outside of their own faction, or with anyone in Nocwich.

◎ Faction leaders will take care of the Nocwich leadership. The Summoned are asked not to spread panic and to keep this information to themselves, as the factions firmly believe that this threat is only to anyone of great importance belonging to one of the three factions. They are quite sure that the citizens of Nocwich and regular visitors are completely safe, citing that their information source is highly credible.

◎ The Summoned will be informed that assisting is their choice, as the faction leaders understand this carries a risk not everyone wants to accept. Those who don't wish to be involved are asked to place the item they are given in the envelope and return it afterwards to their faction.

Once the note has been read, the ink upon it will dissolve, leaving behind an unremarkable piece of blank parchment.

As if that weren't enough, you'll also only have one hour to do what you need to, as well as perform any sabotage or assistance, since the full moon ceremonies will soon draw to a close. Once the ceremonies end, you'll be herded into the returning carriages and nothing more can be done. Act quickly, especially since completing the task requires at least 15 minutes of preparation first. And remember: choosing not to act is still a choice, and it'll influence what happens next. To truly abstain, you'll need to not be involved in the ceremony at all.

Work together if you must, share resources or spells and skills - time is of the essence.

Thorne

The Summoned from Thorne will receive a tarot card that is blank at first. The image must be fully revealed by heating the card's surface, then waiting 15 minutes for the design to appear and the ink to dry. The card needs to be placed facedown somewhere (ideally hidden, such as under a book or a seat cushion), so it's critical that the full 15 minutes pass or the image will smear. There must be no rips, burns, or other blemishes anywhere on the card. It is up to you to find the appropriate heat source to do so, discreetly.

To interfere, you can deface the card before making the placement. Defacing the card involves drawing on it, smearing the image, or otherwise ruining it in some manner while ensuring the card itself remains intact. Those who are familiar with Abraxan magic will understand that defacing a tarot card can nullify or subvert a spell or enchantment.

Free Cities

The Summoned from the Free Cities will receive a tiny bug designed to resemble an insect common to Nocwich. The device will arrive with its wings open, revealing the cogs inside. These cogs need to be wound with a small tool (a pin or a needle) five times, no more no less. It will take 15 minutes for the device to finish preparing, at which point the wings will snap shut and you may cast it into the air with a gentle toss. Casting it before the wings close will cause the device to shut off too soon and plummet before it can be of any use. It is up to you to find the appropriate tool to do so, discreetly.

To interfere, you can ensure the device fails to work by winding it the incorrect number of times, removing one of the cogs, cutting one of the wires, getting it wet, or otherwise jamming the bug in some way while ensuring its physical body remains largely intact.

Solvunn

The Summoned from Solvunn will receive a delicate seed the size of a walnut. This seed is dry and must be soaked in clean water for at least 15 minutes until a small sprout forms on the seed, then planted in some earth. This can be anywhere, such as in a potted plant or under a tree outside. The seed must be fully covered and it must show signs of a tiny green sprout before it's planted. It is up to you to collect the appropriate water source, discreetly.

To interfere, you can ensure the seed will not properly grow by cracking the seed, charring it, soaking it in a liquid other than water, removing the sprout, or otherwise ruining the seed somehow without destroying it altogether.

Players will have until August 26 at 11:59 PM ET to let us the final outcome of their character's assignment, as this will affect how the event wraps up.

You do not need to finish any threads by then. Only two things are required for submission:
1. You must have a thread started of your character attending one of the ceremonies
2. You must decide what your character's final outcome status will be and mark it down for us

How your character reaches their final outcome is up to you and you can play out as much or as little interference, conflict, or drama for flavor as you like leading up to it. Once your outcome is submitted and the deadline has passed, please do not change it ICly or OOCly.

If your character is ICly attending the ceremony but you do not submit their assignment outcome by the deadline, it will default to decline.

Once you are ready, fill out and submit the form here.

The Delegates

If you were chosen as a delegate, you'll have already left for your meeting before the courier arrives at the ceremony. As a result, you won't receive the same package and your path will be a bit different.

To get to the meeting spot, a large and official-looking building, you'll be taken through a portal into an unknown city square rather than traveling directly to the meeting. If asked, you'll be told this is for security reasons. A carriage will await all three delegates at the square, which will then take them to another set of portals - where they'll finally reach their respective destinations of either Ikorr or Luna.

A separate IC log has been provided for delegates. Please go there for further details and to meet with your chosen representative.

The Outcome

As the carriages return to Oleuni Square, all seems well. The market is beginning to open back up as citizens return from the ceremony, merchants are setting up their wares, and there's no visible danger in sight. Intriguingly, Lady Elin is nowhere to be found, her things packed and the sign no longer on the table. It appears she does not plan on returning, or perhaps knows what lies ahead before anyone else.

Sure enough, the rumors start to surface: a fire, smoke coming out of one of the buildings in Ikorr. Or is it Luna? Both? Maybe it isn't a fire. Maybe someone was stabbed, actually. Or there was an accident involving a carriage. With how rumors work, it's impossible to tell what's true or not...but something is afoot.

Before anyone can investigate too closely, word comes that for security reasons, the event is shutting down a few hours early. Visitors are asked to conclude their business as quick as possible and then return home through the portals.

You'll find out exactly what happened during the event wrap-up on AUGUST 31! The outcome and which factions are involved will depend on the choices characters make.

Comments

OTA: Oleuni Square

[magicalarchaeologist]

After Lucifer alerts him of this new opportunity, Istredd manages to pull himself out of his research spiral to go through the portal and take in the square and everything in it. He has always liked traveling, in truth, finding out more about the continent and the people in it, so he warms up to the situation quickly. He is a quiet individual though so not inclined to approach people right away, instead clearly being seen watching everything with thoughtful, observant blue eyes. He carries with him a book to note his thoughts too.

Istredd enjoys the performances from the back, whether it's musical or theatrical. He makes notes in his journal about the theater stories in case they are of historical or mythological relevance. He is intensely curious about both werewolves and vampires, asking many questions of the few he meets. If they want to ask him about being Summoned, it's an open invitation to a quid pro quo.

He can also be spotted at the shops and stalls although he seems more interested in looking at the objects than buying any of them. Cultural touchstones are interesting. Istredd doesn't have the money to burn at this point, but he does ask a lot about what ingredients are in the elixirs. He likes the yarn and woven objects a lot although also does not buy any of them, but he does compliment the merchants on making something incredible.

The one indulgence he goes for is visiting the hot springs. While Thorne bathing is pleasant, it seems like one of those cultural things well worth trying out himself, and that it helps the sore muscles of werewolves intrigues him. He puts his clothes aside once he realizes it's a custom to go bare and settles in, taking a calming breath. While Istredd is very self-contained most of the time, he did take in so many different details in one day. Having a moment to relax is important, but something he often forgets to do.

shopping.

[wiedzminka]

[ Ciri, too, is especially intrigued by the elixirs. The ingredients they contain may only be found in Nocwich, and she's got her eyes set on making some use of the beast parts left over from her participation in the hunt. She may yet have a chance to go after more of the game, she hopes, so best to learn what can be used for alchemy and potion making. Her business connections in Cadens and Aquila will surely be interested as well.

Dressed casually, Ciri lingers nearby, idly fiddling with her wolf's head pendant as she listens in on the answers to the man's questions, though he doesn't actually seem to be shopping. Just... talking.

After a few minutes of hanging back to allow him to finish his transaction, since this particular stall is quite small, it becomes clear there isn't one. So Ciri just sort of elbows her way in to see the goods from up close anyway, reaching across him to pick up a bottle that is glowing a faint blue. ]

Hmm. For "increased endurance," is it? The color looks familiar...

[ She does not seem to care that she interrupted the other man's conversation with the potion seller. ]

I know you're not keen on sharing the recipe and I'm not asking for details, but-- you see, I have some gealaci kucing horns I'm told might interest you.

I FINALLY ARRIVE

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Istredd has never excelled at potion making the way his colleagues have, but he does know how, so it is why alchemy is of interest to him. He is someone excellent at memorizing things even if he has no interest of doing them. He suspects the seller probably would appreciate money exchanging hand, which is why he quickly turns to Ciri when she gets there, but until then he seemed to have no trouble answering questions. There is a tendency for merchants and the like to find Istredd's open curiosity appealing, like they are glad someone finds what they do so interesting.

He does glance up when Ciri simply elbows her way into the situation, cutting off the conversation they were having. It is rude, certainly, but it is a business and Istredd was distracting the seller. And once she is gone, he probably will again, he is like that. He does however fully change his attention to her, as intrigued by what she says as the potion seller. Don't blame him, she was the one who shoved her way in.

The potion maker looks intrigued by her and he asks her to wait a moment to talk with his partner about what they can offer, briefly leaving them alone.]

I was told it is very difficult to kill one of those.

[ And yet she seems perfectly fine. Istredd may not be a hunter but he is interested in literally everything, so he already flipped through a storybook of legends. It sounds like they were very lethal. ]

Did you get any of the mushrooms from their path?

[ Istredd has no money to buy them, he is for real just curious, blue eyes bright. ]

HELLO

[wiedzminka]

[ Ciri nods; she's fine with waiting. She'll browse the wares in the meantime, as though the other man doesn't exist, until he speaks to her. ]

It is.

[ She responds, absently. It's not a brag, judging by her tone, which is fairly neutral and a bit distracted. She's looking at another potion bottle now, tipping it to watch the liquid inside swirl mysteriously, but after a few more seconds sets it down and looks over at the man. ]

Yes, I cut a few. I'm not sure yet what they're used for.

[ She waits a beat, assuming from his interest that he does, and then notices the portal-pendant that marks him as one of the Summoned visitors. Ah. That would make sense, but it puts his curiosity in another context. ]

I suppose you don't know either.

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Istredd generally tries not to be too intrusive on other people, he is a quiet man himself, but when something grabs his attention he does get inquisitive. If she told him off, he would listen, but she seems willing to exchange at least a few words, and he doubts he will meet anyone else who has been killing those easily. ]

I would love to know myself. I heard that their tail is hypnotic, it makes me wonder if the mushroom would have similar effects.

[ Perhaps it is a leap, to jump right to a creature's description to how it might translate to what comes from it, but Istredd is a theorist. And in his mind he is making his own version of small talk, which is more interesting than the weather. His eyes drop momentarily to the pendant she is wearing, and his eyebrows furrow. It looks familiar and he knows why, but wolf symbols are hardly rare. Hm. ]

I am not much of a potion maker, my friend Triss teases me about it, she is far better at it. In some areas, the training simply does not stick.

[wiedzminka]

I don't think the mushrooms grow out of their tails. We were told to watch for the mushroom trail because they grow out of the blood if its slain prey, meaning on of the gealaci kucing might be lurking nearby. It could be a reaction to its... I don't know. Saliva, maybe?

I have no idea. I'm not a potion-maker or an animal researcher.

[ She shrugs. ]

Try asking the locals.

[ Her attention snags, momentarily, on the name Triss. But Ciri doesn't linger on it or think much of it. As names go, it's not particularly unusual. ]

Are you in training to be an alchemist? [ She points to his pendant. ] Where?

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Istredd listens to her attentively, hanging on her every word, as he does in most conversations where he's interested in what the topic is. She would know better than him, obviously, and this gives him more than legends to go off of. ]

If it comes from the prey, most likely saliva, yes. I am no animal researcher either, but it's completely fascinating. Thank you for the information.

[ He often forgets he's wearing his pendant marking him as a Summoned so he lifts a hand to touch it, almost unconsciously. ]

No, I'm much more boring than that, I'm an archaeologist. [ He can admit that is boring to most! ] I just find most things I don't know interesting.

[ The High Priestess really does seem like a good fitting, as Thancred said before, with him finding so many things to study rather than being good at only doing one thing at a time. ]

Thorne. I'm Istredd, I'm a mage from another Sphere.

[wiedzminka]

An archaeologist! But only a boring one. I see.

[ She doesn't necessarily think the profession is boring, but hey. If he does. Ciri lets out a faint snort of a laugh, shaking her head.

If he finds most things he doesn't know interesting and asks a bunch of questions about them all the time, he's probably more annoying than boring. But Ciri holds her tongue on that observation, for now.

The shopkeeper is returning, and Ciri sort of nods at Istredd's introduction, not entirely sure what potion-making has to do with archaeology, and turns back to her business briefly. If she realizes that most people do not call their worlds spheres like she and some others she knows do, it doesn't register. (It's all going to click, eventually.)

Instead of excusing herself, Ciri just goes right back to her other conversation, and he may wait for her if he wishes. She hasn't shooed him away, either.

Because they've been invited here as guests and it feels crude to try to sell her acquisitions gained only through Nocwhich's generosity in the first place, Ciri offers a trade, asks some questions, and tells the shopkeeper honestly that she's a hunter residing in Cadens and does work gathering ingredients for alchemists. ]

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Istredd is surprised into a laugh too, he usually goes straight for boring as almost an apology for his interests. Most people do find what he does boring outside of those happy to be a part of it, or other intellectuals. Most of the other mages are only interested in what his information may do for them, not for the information itself. That is why he didn't go to Stregobor and has no plans to see Stregobor. The man would only see this information selfishly.

She didn't shoo him off or seem disinterested in their polite conversation so instead of leaving Istredd stays nearby and keeps looking at the potions. She seems interesting, and he cannot say that of everyone. He does not interrupt her conversation but overhears what she says. So a Free Cities Summoned. He thinks Geralt may be the only one he knows. He really has to try to get out more. Maybe this is the start of it.

He waits for her patiently, he has decided he can't actually buy any of this, and to be fair, most of it or something similar to it he can make in Thorne. He may not be Triss, but he can mix a potion, especially with an academic magic spell behind it. ]

How do you know what to get for alchemists if you aren't one yourself?

[ He asks when she seems to have come to another impasse after a negotiation. He really does not want to annoy her, this has been pleasant so far. ]

shops and stalls

[ushiri]

It's not a surprise that Kahlil bumps into Istredd around one of the few shops in the square selling books. He's only ever seen the man in the castle's library. Necessity's forced Kahlil there quite a few times already since he's arrived, and he's found some overlap in their individual research...

"Anything interesting?" he asks, walking up beside Istredd with his footsteps loud enough on the wooden plank floor that he hopes he doesn't startle the man.

The shop is one of the few that's a little more permanent than the majority of open air stalls. It seems to sell all sorts of magical ingredients, but it's the section in the back with its bookcase and small selection of dusty tomes that's understandably caught his interest.

Chances are this shop is just as selectively curated as anything in Thorne, but he can hope for a chance that something interesting might've slipped through the cracks.

Sorry for the wait I return from semi-hiatus!

[magicalarchaeologist]

Istredd looks up when he hears a familiar voice and nods to Kahlil. He is not easily startled because he is so often lost in books that anyone showing up could throw him off. So he learned how to simply not react. Not always safest, but sanest.

"Actually, yes. Well, for me."

Istredd is a historian first so he always is looking for answers about the 'true' history of the nation. He knows that the Thorne texts are all very biased and put there for a reason. He suspects where he gets the books in town are also, although he and the bookshop owner have become friendly. History books are rarely accurate, written by the victors, after all. The only time they are truthful is when what they're talking about is so old they don't help anyone to lie.

"I'm sure their history books are as biased as Thorne, but there are none there, so it's better than expected."

Istredd is indeed holding a history of Nocwich, and while he expects there will be a lot of half-truths, it is better than the lack of any information he really found in Thorne. Nocwich is very private and secretive, it is difficult to get answers from them. This may be their cultivated answers, but he is glad for that!

"I was hoping for more about the Feywilds."

it's all good, no worries!

[ushiri]

"That's the country on... their southern border?"

He knows the name from the maps.

In practice he knows it as the direction where the Gray Space starts getting incredibly warped and dangerous to attempt traversing, the signs of protective wards as he's come to learn in this world. Though which side they generate from is a mystery to him.

[magicalarchaeologist]

"Yes, they're the very tip of that part of the continent. But there are a whole group of people that live there, the Fey."

The Fey remind him of the elves, for the obvious reasons, and Istredd has very close ties and associations with the elves in his world. So of course his interest couldn't help but be pinged by that. He sees an entire part of a map that is cut off from the rest, that apparently has magical protections in place, or something that is keeping people out. He is a psionic mage, he knows something is there.

"I can see why they wouldn't want information out there, not even in books, considering so many of them were apparently slaughtered centuries ago."

Honestly the more things change the more they are the same, in his experience. All these worlds experiencing the exact same problems and handling things the exact same ways. Those that are different and feared must die. Power needs to be stolen. At least it makes everything easier to guess at.

"But I know they apparently have their own magic, and as a mage, I can't help but be curious."

[ushiri]

The name fey carries little meaning or information to him. He was lucky to have some concept of werewolves and vampires before arriving, if only from fragments of memory and conversation with Jack.

Here, he has trouble imagining the bookseller behind the counter as part of the demon horde.

"Is that why they were slaughtered? Their magic?" he asks with a deep frown, eyeing the dusty spines of books lined up in the cupboards. Kahlil reads these history texts out of necessity, not enjoyment. Sometimes there will be a story or storyteller that manages to hold his interest. More often the descriptions are so dry he struggles not to have to reread the same paragraph three times without his mind wandering.

"I don't think I even fully understand the difference between all these different kinds of magic."

That might be purposely selling himself short. He understands the general concepts and beliefs that are used to define different 'schools' of magic in Abraxas. But in his own world, there are only two kinds of magic: that which has Parfir's blessing, and that which does not.

[magicalarchaeologist]

"Power fears power. Fear leads to violence. And then everyone loses, some worse than others." Istredd is speaking from obvious experience. Over the decades he's seen wars and the attempt of a genocide against the elves, which is only a follow-up to their first attempt at it hundreds of years beforehand. He knows that there is only one direction this is all headed in.

"It's a little exhausting to know that so many Spheres have the same situations. I keep wondering if there are any peaceful ones out there." Spheres is another word for worlds or realms. Istredd would be delighted to be surprised by a calm and nice Sphere out there, just minding its own business. He is not someone who believes it would be boring, he could live happily for many centuries somewhere 'boring' and research history and magic.

"Well, I suppose you could say it's source, although it's possible the Singularity is the source of magic, which means it all comes from the same place." Thus why he has a very, very strong interest in it and what it truly is. "I would say it's more about how people manipulate the natural forces around them. We're all surrounded by energy, permanently. Everything around us, the air we breathe, the molecules, it's all energy. How someone harnesses it is the difference. And what they use it for."

[ushiri]

"You're talking about something like a paradise," he says, his tone softening a degree as he picks at a nicked edge of the wood shelf with his fingernail. A peaceful Sphere. "I don't know if a place like that really exists."

What he remembers of Nayeshi wasn't exactly paradise, not by those standards. They had their own wars and horrors. It's only relative to his own experience in Basawar that recalls the The Palace of Night, Kingdom of Day as a more gentle world in his scattered memory.

"Then by that logic - it's possible if the Singularity were to die, or be destroyed, all the world around us would die with it."

God creates the earth, the sea, the air from his own body. All of it alive around them.

Only another god could destroy a god. In Basawar you only had to look to the east to see the result, a land where nothing could grow.

[magicalarchaeologist]

"It seems unlikely, but I'd like to think just one in the infinite number of possible spheres is a paradise. I'd never call myself an optimist, but that will be my rare attempt at it."

Expecting one in millions isn't optimism so much as general logic, the possibilities could be anything, including peaceful. Istredd considers himself a pragmatist, rarely prone to hoping for anything. But it seems exhausting to only accept the worst.

Istredd nods. "That is the theory. The weakening of the Singularity here has been marked, but I haven't seen justifiable proof that it has affected any other spheres. So it's an idea for now." Istredd is a historian so he bases as much on facts as he can. He thinks this is likely the truth, but he doesn't have proof. All he can do is act accordingly.

"I think it's possible bringing us here was a bad idea. I understand the urge if they were looking for people who could get close to it, but it's possible we are a drain on its power." Entities with a connection to it that wasn't there before? It could have been a fatal mistake.

[carmesi]

Wanda catches on to a familiar voice, but it's not a voice she has heard in person before. Rather, she's heard it ricochet in her head, in a library with way too many books, and a space that was 'loaned' to her when she wants to have a moment of proper fulfilling solitude.

She approaches the vendor with the yarn and woven objects, looks them over for a moment before turning her attention to Istredd.

"If you like them so much," she starts, not using her telepathy to communicate, "wouldn't you just buy something?" But then she offers him a bit of a smile.

It's not like she has a lot of coin herself, either.

"It's good to see you, Istredd."

[magicalarchaeologist]

Istredd knows the voice well despite them only speaking in their minds, because he always recognizes telepaths quicker than anyone else. They may not be immediately connected by the mind like they were in the Horizon, but it is like a little white noise in the base of his skull. His head turns very quickly from her first word, snapping toward her, and his smile is immediate and actually genuine.

"If I could, I would. They are truly beautiful." He says the last part with as much warmth as he can, and while he cannot buy it, the creator seems pleased by the compliment. Istredd is fairly good at speaking so sincerely to merchants or asking enough questions from real interest that they end up liking their conversation, coin given or not.

"It is good to see you as well, Wanda. Would you care to take a walk?"

That is said out loud as the moment he gestures for them to move away, he slips into what he suspects they are both more comfortable with at the moment. A light and friendly telepathic bond.

And how are you enjoying getting out of Solvunn?

[carmesi]

Would she care to go for a walk? It seems like she hasn't got much of a choice, but her smile doesn't falter despite her perceived hesitation. With his gesture and words, she bids a farewell glance at the woven objects before keeping up with Istredd's long strides.

I can't complain.

For more reasons than one, truth be told, and though Wanda doesn't answer with more, she is certain that if Istredd tried hard enough, he could catch glimpses in her mind—and yet she trusts that he will be respectful of her privacy, of not having to force Wanda to actively put up walls.

She crosses her arms loosely.

Meeting others outside of the Horizon is certainly different. What about yourself?

[magicalarchaeologist]

Wanda does not have to be concerned about that, Istredd doesn't even step up to her walls. He is far too polite having been a psionic mage a long time and he only blows past protective walls in the case of an emergency. Which they are not currently in. He isn't going to make trouble with the only other telepath he's come across here either. He values the relief of talking this way too much.

I haven't met a lot of people in the Horizon. Strangely not everyone is intrigued by the giant staircase surrounded by books.

He smiles at her with that. Istredd doesn't really go wandering himself, perhaps further proof of his tendency to leave people's minds alone. He doesn't mind visitors himself but he is too timid to really go looking so far.

I also spend more time sitting by the Singularity than being in my domain.

Istredd is being dead serious. He has been sitting next to the Singularity frequently during his visits, talking to it or writing notes next to it.

[carmesi]

Strangely.

She echoes, catching on to his amusement when relaying that much to her. Wanda is aware that her own walking into his domain had more to do with her general observational curiosity than anything else—not so much because she loves books, unlike the owner of the space. Too bad, though; didn't he want to grow a collection with books from different worlds, too?

It's the mention of the Singularity that intrigues her the most. She has personally not made a choice to approach it, not after the expedition with Julie. It had been so noisy, unpleasant to a degree.

Is it not loud there? Near the Singularity?

[magicalarchaeologist]

Istredd would love to get a collection of books from different worlds. He hopes that some day people will actually travel to his space and fill them in, but that requires him making connections. He's working on it. This is the most he's been surrounded by strangers in awhile, at least ones he has to try and talk to. And they're interesting, he has yet to meet a boring Summoned, which is deeply satisfying for someone who doesn't handle boring well. But maybe someday his library will not only be from his mind.

Istredd would admit to his fascination with the Singularity something that could eventually borderline on obsession, but he feels like he has good reasons for it. It's so close to his life's work and he thinks may actually give him real answers to what he's always wondered.

No, it feels soothing. I feel this buzz nearby it.

He can tell how that would be more annoying to other people. It is loud, in a way, in a spiritual way, but Istredd is drawn to it instead. Maybe it feels more like white noise to him.

I'm hoping to visit it in person soon. I think it is important, very important.

[carmesi]

She does find it curious how the Singularity attracts certain people towards it. Wanda, in particular, was not too fond of the noise she had heard from the Singularity when she rested her hand against it. It had been in the Horizon, of course, so the idea of physically being near it makes her stomach turn with dread.

Thankfully, she's not the one embarking on that little adventure.

Important in what way?

As Wanda glances at him, the idea that he is a scholar of some kind really sticks to her. Hopefully he will find what he seeks; of course she knows that the Singularity is important, but she isn't sure in what way exactly. Not many outside of Thorne seem to put as much import to it.

[magicalarchaeologist]

The monoliths I studied for decades, they were gateways to other worlds, we had no idea for thousands of years. I think it's possible either the Singularity is connected to all other worlds, or that it is itself connected to the source of magic. Theoretically.

Istredd is still learning so he has no concrete proof about it, that's why he wants to visit it and find out for himself. He knows that the Horizon isn't enough to get that connection, he needs to find out if there is a way to actually go to it in the real world. To be where it is, not only in a psychic plane. It may be that doesn't matter, but he is a scholar. He wants to find out.

She can hear the animation in his voice even when it's only in their minds, the enthusiasm for the subject. He is so hungry for knowledge, seeking answers, always. Answers that he was finally getting back home, before he came here, and now he wonders if they were only a bridge to the true answers.

If that theory is correct, finding a way to protect it here may be the most important thing some of us could do to keeping magic alive.

And while Istredd is not the most passionate 'magic is always a good' arguer, he knows that it has to exist, for the balance of the universe. He nods at her.

Maybe that's why it is so loud to you. You are one of the most powerful magic users I've ever felt, far above the oldest mages I know.

Istredd has known that from the moment he met her, even in the Horizon, she practically radiates power. For someone like him, it was easy to sense. And there's no fear in him for it, if anything, it's only made him more curious. He is not a power-hungry person himself.