abraxaslogs | ( open )

[ The temple seems to have settled compared to what it was like last month, no more earthquakes or odd humming. The air here is still spring-summer warm despite the changes in weather in the real world, and some of the garden outside has expanded: along with the apple trees are now strawberry bushes, and even the odd jalapeño plant can be found. The statues that flank the structure are immense and maybe intimidating, but there's something innately welcoming about this place. The one who this domain belongs to doesn't mind peaceful visitors.

The books along the walls are beginning to fill too. Many of them are now texts on magic and texts on Thornean history, copies (or memories) of the ones found in the castle library. Others are still blank, or written in a language no one here but Kahlil speaks.

Tucked away between books a strange mirror can be found that offers no reflection.

The iron tree at the center of the circular structure is the same, though. Candles keep the area lit, the glass dome at the top revealing a starry night sky most of the time, despite the sunlight outside. If he's in his domain Kahlil can most often be found here, kneeling at the base of the tree. He'll greet anyone who enters, and offer them a lightly rose-flavored tea with honey, or wryly suggest that he can also conjure a slushee if they want something more flavorful. ]

Edited 2022-11-29 23:33 (UTC)

[ The new Summoned appeared unexpectedly. He's noticed quite a few of them trying to navigate the library. He can be found here at a table in the back, pulling some of the books he found most useful for the many questions he had on arrival: histories of Thorne and the many, many fairy tales that serve in their place, maps of the continent, a couple of simple books on magic. If someone looks particularly confused he'll approach them to see if he might assist.

Or maybe point them to Istredd and Jack who know this place best.

In the meantime he can be found half falling asleep over particularly odd, dusty tomes of magic spells. His arcanic lessons with Yennefer are getting him a little more familiar with the ancient Thornean language that had interested him some time ago.

He can be seen walking through corridors near the South Wing, usually with a package in hand. Sometimes that leads him into the castle city proper, and sometimes he heads to the portals that lead to Nott. If you're looking for a tour of either city, he can oblige, so long as the guards allow you through. ]

( OOC: Feel free to start a thread post the introduction/exchanging of names if you like, or hmu via PM if you'd like something more specific in any of these areas! )

[ Kahlil has kept his word since their first meeting, showing up to each of their sessions on time. Somehow he managed to power his way through the books she originally gave him, and through these two months - barring the interruption of the omens, he's managed to make progress. Whenever a rune or phrase in Ancient Thornean turns up in a spell, he copies it down with a little scribble about the spell its used for.

He fails a lot in those first weeks of practical spellwork. But he's stubborn and quick-witted, and his penchant for language means he's undeterred.

Unfortunately, he quickly learns what he expected about his original motive for learning: the wards and protections around the castle are far too complicated for him to figure out how to dispel on his own. This, though, he keeps to himself.

He's managed to perfect a simple protection spell, at least. A single use casting that mitigates some of the physical damage done to the one protected. It drains him horribly, though, and he ends up napping after nearly every class.

This time he finds her after she's done with her last class of the day. He knocks on the open door to announce himself. In one hand is a bottle of blackberry mead. He tilts his head to the side, raising an eyebrow. ]

A thank you, for all the lessons. [ He lifts the bottle with a wry grin. ] To share, if you have a moment to spare - and drinking with students isn't against your rules.

[ He's always been friendly in their interactions, carefully reading her mood. ]

Edited 2022-12-02 00:28 (UTC)

[ Elidibus has found himself privately enjoying the small surprises one finds wandering between Domains in Horizon in a way he didn't think he would. It's not when an aesthetic seems familiar with recently restored memories or the simple act of something lovingly created out of nothing but thought and the malleable nature of the plane.

It's where he finds something new. Like nearly every Domain is a pocket of adventure waiting to be explored. He remembers those rare opportunities his work and duties allowed him a chance to have tiny adventures when he was much, much younger. It was a little disconcerting to find he had the capacity to feel this way now.

It didn't seem to be something he could stop. So he accepted it (and perhaps deep down was even relieved by it) and went about exploring during his visits.

As was often the case when it came to most other Domains, Elidibus made sure to manipulate his appearance so he was roughly the same height and appearance as his Abraxan self; silver haired and youthful, vibrant blue eyes with irises that have a light glow. White robes and a red mask with a deceptively simple design that hangs against his chest. It's easier to interact with others this way.

On entering the interior of the temple and finding the Domain's owner is in residence today, the former Ascian pauses. The offer is given due contemplation. ]

Pray explain what a 'slushee' is.

[ It can't hurt to ask, he decides. ]

[ The mask is interesting. Most people in Horizon look and dress the way they do in the real world, and he can't think of one that obscures their features. Anywhere else he might find that reason to use extra caution. Here, within his domain, he's more lax. They are on his holy ground, and Kahlil controls this space.

At the question he raises his eyebrows, then points to one of the cushions at the base of the iron tree. ]

Something different. And sweet. [ He crouches down next to the tea set and touches the tin tray. The steaming ceramic mugs are replaced by tall, plastic cups. One is red for cherry, one pink for strawberry banana, and one blue for... he's not sure. Whatever blue tastes like.

He nods toward the stranger. ]

Come. Sit and try one.

[ The mask is down at least, hanging at his chest as though it were attached to a cord and waiting to be used. Many might think it's because it's the polite thing to do and it's true enough. But it has a bit more meaning than that in Horizon.

Elidibus is extremely reluctant to set aside something that's served as the core of his identity for so long. But that is neither here nor there. Something more profound is happening in front of him.

Not the conjury of other drinks (the memory of such things perhaps? Given where they are...) but the entire concept of the slushee itself. An eyebrow lifts as he steps forward to study the choices. ]

It is certainly different.

[ From tea absolutely. And he doesn't recall seeing anything quite like it. ]

Given the vibrant colors and its simplicity, I believe it is a drink meant to delight children.

[ He doesn't seem offended to be offered something meant for children. Elidibus seems to be voicing his initial observations. After another moment's consideration, he goes for the pink one. Red might be safe, blue is questionable. Pink seems just enough adventure.

Since the offer was to sit and enjoy, he finds himself a place near Kahlil to settle before tapping the side of the cup- a curious substance itself- and then trying to sip the contents.

Queue the thoughtful contemplation of someone who has never in over ten thousand years been exposed to artificial strawberry and banana mixed together over a slush and dyed pink. The response comes after a brief adjustment period and another sip. ]

Are refreshments such as this common on your star?

[ Kahlil sits as the stranger does, watching with interest as he makes his observations and selections. He settles cross-legged and picks the red drink, taking a small sip himself. At the comment about children he adds with amusement: ]

And adults, nostalgic or intoxicated. [ Or both.

At least he shouldn't quite get a sugar rush or brain freeze. So the drink is mostly safe for everyone, except maybe those who might have the memory of being afflicted by either way. Horizon sometimes seems as reliant on creativity as it is affected by memory, or lack of it...

Star. He's heard one other person refer to worlds that way. He wonders if they must come from the same place, but keeps the question to himself. ]

In certain kinds of shops. There's actually one next door. [ He nods vaguely to the east. ] Have you seen a gas station before?

[ Elidibus appears to have no problem sitting on the floor and also settles, though he keeps his legs stretched out loosely. It's for the best, wearing robes as he is. ]

I see.

[ Maybe not. But it does give a hint that Khalil hails from a society that isn't completely extreme about the expected behavior of adults. Elidibus samples the drink again and yes. The pace and amount he takes in makes it almost guaranteed the slush would be practically melted before he gets halfway. ]

Hm.

[ Once the question is posed, Elidibus closes his eyes and begins to reflect on it. The disadvantage to having his memories restored is that there's a lot to unpack. But while the words gas and station are familiar and even the concept of them being used together can have some derived context, the former Ascian shakes his head. ]

I can think of ways that phrase would be used, but I do not think they match what you're trying to describe. [ There is a brief glance to what direction is nodded at. He has yet to have been that way. ] Could you describe it for me?

[ There's an odd formality to his speech, the combination of that and his questions is something Kahlil can't help finding a little endearing after his own experience being a stranger in a strange world. ]

It's a place where you can fill up your automobile with fuel, and go inside a little shop to buy supplies or treats. [ A pause, then the next natural question is whether he would even be familiar with cars. ]

Here.

[ Kahlil holds his hand out and in his palm appears a small toy car, a yellow corvette Hot Wheels made of what feels like metal. This he offers to the stranger as well. ]

Ah, yes.

[ It seems the description is sufficient. Despite the somewhat archaic way of speaking, the stranger seems to know what cars are. And more importantly what they need to run. ]

So it's the term used for places one may refuel their vehicles. I'm familiar with the concept.

[ The offering of the Hot Wheels toy is also accepted with grace and studied with interest. He does privately wonder if this is another example of bright colors and exaggerated traits for children. For now he doesn't ask, choosing instead to introduce himself. ]

I am Elidibus. I was summoned by the elders of Solvunn a few moons prior.

[ He might be surprised to find that some adults have cars in the same bright colors. This one is an older type of toy, one made to look more realistic than other models. Upon closer examination he might find this one a little worn in places, the paint scraped away to reveal the metal cast beneath. Another side effect of memory.

At the introduction he dips his chin slightly. ]

Kyle. I arrived in Thorne around that same time, I think. [ With the previous batch of Summoned. Interesting that each faction uses the same schedule. He wonders what there is to that. ]

What's life like in the Solvunn settlements? [ He's had more reason to become interested in them lately... ]

[ Well... not really surprised. He's seen a lot of mortal civilizations. Some of them have had really gaudy cars. Flying cars even. But it would be another piece of the puzzle that is learning about this new acquaintance. He would certainly noticed the traits of a worn toy; as if this is a memory of something Kyle had long ago possessed. Thus after the inspection he will offer it back and turn to the matter of their mutual Summoning arrival. ]

Interesting. I wonder if that is more than coincidence.

[ Elidibus has also noticed the lack of summons since; at least until the recent group. It's something worth looking into more to see if the other nations coincide. But it isn't the right place or moment to launch into questions with a person he just met and knows so little of. At least not directly, hence the rhetoric.

When asked of life in the settlements, once more Elidibus is taken to reflection before answering. He seems a man very keen on thinking before speaking. ]

I do not know what to compare it to on this star. The Solvunn are a people who value the community and helping one another over personal want. They are followers of old ways. And old gods. For the most part, we Summoned are considered delivered by their divine and afforded respect and varying degrees of reverence.

[ Or perhaps fear. Elidibus seems fairly calm about the matter and shows no signs of what his personal thoughts are of being regarded in that light. Though perhaps that's a tell in and of itself that it's something he's been familiar with before. ]

Of course it is not without its drawbacks, though for the most part we are made to feel welcome. What of Thorne? Outside of the recent conflict, I know little about its day to day life.

[ Things have been okay, surprisingly, with Rhy. There have been mutual assurances between the both of them that what occurred was something desired, not forced - even if the initial push had been an outside source. It was good, and he felt good - and it seemed as though Rhy did as well.

Kahlil hasn't had much intention of pursuing Rhy more seriously. He knows the man has quite a few admirers and lovers - for better or worse Kahlil knows himself to be the jealous type in these matters. But there's still flirting, and something open-ended left on the metaphorical table.

He could never have this in Basawar.

Tonight he invites Rhy out with him to a tavern in the castle city. The place is a little nicer than his usual gossip-gathering haunts, and he actually allows himself to drink a little than he might if he were alone. The mood has been somber amongst the natives as of late and people are still wary of the Summoned, but there's still pockets like this where people don't stare at them when they take a table in a corner and order some wine. Reminders of the burned harvests and tainted waters are here in the shortened menu lists. The mood is good, at least. There's a troupe playing instruments in a corner, and a few inebriated folks are attempting to dance. ]

I wish they'd move a little farther from the fire... [ Kahlil says with a wince and a wry look as he takes a drink from his glass, enjoying the warmth in his belly - and the handsome company. ]

Edited 2022-12-02 00:51 (UTC)

[ That tracks with what he's learned of Solvunn so far, though admittedly he hasn't heard much about how people live there beyond their habits of worship. He sets his slushie down on the tray, and it vanishes to be replaced by a regular cup of daru'sira, lightly steaming. ]

Most of us live in the castle. Thorne treats us well, better food and lodging than most in exchange for a few less freedoms regarding travel. But mostly we're left to do as we please, so long as we don't make any trouble.

[ Like speaking against the queen. He shrugs. Only more recently have they been allowed access to the southern city of Nott. ]

If Solvunn and Thorne stay on neutral terms, maybe there'll be the chance to visit one day.

[ The summary of Thorne doesn't appear to surprise Elidibus. It also fits what he's heard about the society and how its Summoned are handled.

Imprisoned tools with prettier cages than most. But it seems that is largely what the Summoned are regardless of how their summoners handle the treatment of them. ]

Perhaps there will be. My colleagues and I delivered relief supplies following the incident at Nocwich. [ He doesn't mention toward which nation he had but that shouldn't matter. Solvunn had been a neutral party. ] Let us hope for a favorable outcome of the tensions between the Free Cities and Thorne.

[ Of course Elidibus isn't going to speak his observed opinion of Thorne to someone he just met; particularly from Thorne.

He persists with the slushee for the time being. ~~If for no other reason than to remember it so he can recreate it for Hythlodaeus when the meeting is spoken of later.~~ ]

I am curious about their attitude regarding visits to Horizon as well. Thorne, The Free Cities. It is not looked well upon in Solvunn if the Summoned visit it too frequently.

[ Certainly the former Ascian knew that was probably something all the nations were not fond of. Their assets gathering to share knowledge in a place they couldn't really reach. ]

[ He'd heard of trades with Solvunn going on, though at the time he was told he wasn't needed - or, rather, didn't have enough good will accumulated yet to be trusted on an assignment like that. He's worked on that, since then.

Let us hope for a favorable outcome of the tensions between the Free Cities and Thorne. He nods in grim agreement with that. Let the tensions remain cold for now, at least. The omens have seemed to see to that. The people of the land suffer either way, but it's a lesser evil compared to the attack on Libertas. ]

It's the same in Thorne. Best to keep trips as infrequent as possible. [ And do as much in one go as you can. It's a little bit of a surprise to hear that Solvunn is against their visits to Horizon. With the faction being the most neutral of the three and most worshipful, he thought maybe they'd allow more freedoms there. ]

Have you visited the Singularity here?

Edited 2022-12-04 00:11 (UTC)

[ Of course, Rhy can't refuse an invitation like this. Truth be told, despite putting on his best appearances for the newly Summoned and trying his hardest to make them feel welcome, he has been feeling rather out of sorts ever since being trapped on that awful beach for what felt like weeks by himself inside the Horizon. He's always been a social creature, but lately, being alone has been harder than ever. A crowded place like this with familiar company is comforting.

He's had a bit to drink already, feeling pleasantly warm and a little bit buzzed. Rhy follows Kyle's gaze to the would-be dancers and laughs softly. ]

We could dance near the fire instead. To protect them. A public service, you see.

Oh yes, obviously. [ The younger man's soft laughter has him grinning as he takes another drink - glad to hear the sound of it again. Rhy's been shouldering a lot these past months, more than his fair share. And what happened to him in the Horizon - it wasn't like the strange labyrinth and haphazard towers Kahlil and the others experienced. At least they weren't alone in those.

The question still is: why did it happen to Rhy?

That's not on his mind right now, though. Kahlil cocks his head to one side, leaning in a little closer. ]

Oddly enough, they didn't hold very many dances at the monastery. Think you can take the lead?

[ It's a slip. He hasn't mentioned much about his past, nothing about where he was raised or by whom. He doesn't notice. ]

It is to be expected, given the nature of Horizon.

[ Elidibus nods. It's clearly no surprise to hear that all three of the nations share similar views on how much their Summoned interact with another nation's. There is a brief pause when Kyle asks about the Singularity. ]

Once. When I first came to Horizon my colleagues brought me to it. Though it was difficult to fully appreciate its complexity because of this.

[ First time has the issue with one's memories being- however temporarily- stolen. For a moment there is a frown marring the youthful visage. But it is quickly schooled away. ]

I hope to return soon to gain a better perspective. Though I have been surprisingly occupied with learning more about this new star and its recent events. Have you had the opportunity yet?

[ Right, the initial arrival to Horizon is... strange. He'd been hesitant to enter this space when he first heard that his memories would vanish, even if the effect was explained to be temporary. Had he not met Jack, it might've taken him longer to take the plunge.

He nods. ]

I've approached it. I wonder how it differs from the real thing. [ But there's no way to know any time soon, given how far out of the territory the monolith resides. ]

There's a lot to learn. In Thorne we're given access to a large library. [ One of the biggest he's ever seen. ] Do they keep many written records in Solvunn?

[ Rhy laughs again, easy and warm, then downs the rest of his drink to place the empty cup with a decisive thump on the table. He slips out of his seat and, with a flourish, offers his hand to Kyle. ]

Happily.

[ As soon as his companion takes his hand, Rhy will pull him up out of his chair and toward the makeshift dancefloor.

On the way, he just has one question: ]

What's a monastery, and what do they have against dancing?

[ There's the briefest of hesitations. Kneejerk, but it passes quickly and with a playfully seductive grin he takes Rhy's hand to be pulled toward the dancefloor. No one pays them any mind, just like all the times before. He's getting better at this, he thinks.

The question has him raising both eyebrows, surprised. It's the first time there's been a language gap, and it's with a word he wasn't expecting. For a split second he wonders if he's being teased, but then he answers: ]

Ah, like a temple? A holy place. [ He turns to face Rhy, placing his free hand on his shoulder. ] Did I forget to mention I was a priest?

[ Considering he's told only a handful of people, yes. ]

Ah, I see. [ Rhy pulls him closer, into a simple dance without clear steps. His other hand rests on Kahlil's waist. ]

And clearly you must've because this is the first I'm hearing of it.

[ He steps them forward, then back, swaying in rhythm. Apparently, priest at least is a word he knows. ]

Though you said you're not much of a healer.

[ The song is a lively one. It's easy enough to fall into rhythm. Kahlil wasn't trained in dancing, but he's been trained in other ways that make his movements graceful. ]

I'm terrible at it, but maybe I should learn that too one day. [ Another grin, and he teases: ] You're a complete mystery, though

[ Has Rhy ever told him anything about his home? All he really knows is that Kell is he brother, the red-headed man with the strange eye. The pair of them couldn't be any more different in personality. ]

[ Rhy only really brought it up because those two things -- the concept of a priest and a healer -- are so intertwined in his mind; he immediately assumed that Kyle must have received some training of that type to be a priest, but the miscommunication isn't clear, and so he just accepts it. Maybe in his world it's not based on such talents. Rhy doesn't press further, finding himself faced with questions of his own.

He laughs once, short and quiet, not entirely mirthful. His fingers curl in the hem of Kahlil's shirt, bunching it up above his hip before realizing what he's doing and letting go. ]

I kind of like the sound of that. There's something sexy about a mystery, right?

[ But it's not really a secret, not most of it. He doesn't tease Kahlil long. ]

You can ask me whatever you wish. Where shall I start?

( open )

horizon; open

castle thorne and nott; open

yennefer;

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Blue Raspberry, the ultimate mystery.

i totally misread that his mask was off, ugh sorry!!

Not to worry at all! <3

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rhy;

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