TDM #5

[calderaevents]

ARRIVAL

It happens in an instant. A heavy weight in your gut, a trembling of your limbs, the world spins and you barely have time to register that you're falling before you lose consciousness. And when you awaken, it's not where you were last. Dark, unadorned oak walls surround you in a tiny room, the only furniture the bed you are currently resting upon, and the bedside table with a folded piece of parchment resting atop it that simply reads:

“The Tavernkeeper is awaiting your arrival downstairs.”

As you exit you find others like yourself emerging from the surrounding rooms. You are indeed in a tavern, but there is no hustle and bustle one might think to hear in such a place. The only person down on the main floor is a humanoid figure wiping down the bar, who smiles when they see you. They're familiar, but not, and you can't quite place their face. For some reason, however, their presence is comforting and warm.

“Welcome, Visitor. I'm sure you have a lot of questions.”

And you most certainly do.

Due to popular demand, the starter tavern and the drinks provided are available to in game characters via a portal accessible only to those with a faction gem.

DRINK MENU

FLAMEFRUIT SANGRIA a deep red wine based punch with chunks of softly glowing fruit floating in it. A single serving makes you feel relaxed, social, and maybe even a little flirty.

MOLTEN MEAD Though the thick drink itself is room temperature, it bubbles sluggishly, and feels very warm going down. The bold flavor affects your mood. You feel very bold! Like you could do anything!

BESALT BRANDY a hopefully staple drink for the brewery, this liquor is smooth and rich with a peppery bite. Ironically after consuming it, you kinda want to bite someone! Not hard! Just a little nip and nibble!

THAT ASHY ESPRESSO a single potent shot of dark espresso swirled with a gold-tinged cream. Intense and bitter with a hint of caramelized sugar. You are now very awake, hyper, and excited.

PYROCLAST'S WHISKEYa glossy black whiskey that turns a vibrant glowing orange when swirled. You now breathe fire.

EMBERMARK WINE a rich, velvety, spiced wine that immediately makes one feel mellow and calm.

CHOOSE YOUR DESTINY

As the effects of your drink wear off, the Tavernkeeper speaks once more:

”It is time, my friends, for you to find your new homes.”

You are compelled to walk through the only door leading out of the tavern, finding yourself not outside, but in a deep black, seemingly endless room with five portals arranged in a circle. As the last of you leave and the door closes behind you, gone when you look back again and replaced with nothing but that black void, three of the portals illuminate:

The first portal is surrounded by an almost blinding light, prismatic rainbows shining brightly in the dewy air outside of the tavern. A soft breeze may gently caress you, pulling you toward it. The portal seems to lead to a city in the clouds, airships and winged beings of all sorts soaring through the skies. Of the little bits of visible land, much of it boasts giant waterfalls that look like clouds melting into the land below. The portal calls to those who crave independence and freedom; and especially to anyone that wishes to find the strong bond of a family not forged in blood.

The second portal is encircled by a fairy ring of spotted white capped mushrooms, the faint scent of damp stone and rich earth wafting from within the faint green glow. Peering inside, one can see a sprawling harbor city of gray hewn stone, a melting pot of humanoid beings going about their day, and beyond, rolling green farmland and cottages clustered in small villages. This portal is destined for those who crave stability and solid ground beneath their feet. A simple life, an adventurous one, and everything in between can be found within.

The last portal is adorned with shells and seaweed, the glow of blue around it catching on droplets cascading down the circular opening. Beyond it you see a city housed inside a massive bubble deep under the ocean, spiraling towers encrusted with coral, and a variety of different creatures mingling about the streets. Outside of that bubble, merfolk swim, a massive squid engulfs the view from the portal as it smoothly glides through the water, and schools of fish disperse as it passes. A sanctuary in the sea that calls to those with a hunger for knowledge and a desire to aid those in need. Or perhaps it is the mystery that beckons you - the lure of the unknown in the depths that bids you explore it.

---

Upon following the pull of the breeze through the first portal, you are thrust into the beauty of a lively city that goes by the name of Heaven's Bow. Much of this main city feels exactly as you would expect on a city below, but there are clouds surrounding every direction you look. The walls of buildings are made with light-colored limestone, and buildings are generally built up to heights made even more grandiose by their position in the sky.

The Skyfall Docks are the first thing you notice, boasting hundreds of airships sailing in and out across the clouds with shouts that accompany a typical port city. Just outside is a fantastic market with goods not only from the other regions of Caldera, but from what some shopkeepers claim are other worlds--items sold or left behind by Visitors. Almost anything can be found in the markets if one is willing to look hard enough. Transport to other locations throughout the sky and even to the land or sea can be found here.

If the docks are too lively for you, you may instead find yourself roaming the underbelly of Heaven's Bow and finding brothels and gambling parlors filled with the promise of pleasure and fortune. The guild house for the Sylphs can be found here as well, giving out quests and training to prospective adventurers and guards alike--though none of them seem concerned with the illicit activities that surround them. Perhaps the freedom the Sylphs boast of extends to what others may deem an undesirable activity.

But most curious of all, you find a shimmering opal gemstone in your hand. When placed anywhere on the body, it will transform into a piece of jewelry with the gemstone set in the center.

---

If it was the second portal that called to you, you will find yourself in the busy city of Grey Ward, with its cobblestone streets and sturdy grey stone buildings. You are in the heart of the city, the Glass Market, so named for the colorful stained glass windows of the surrounding buildings. The scent of cooking food and the sound of barkers fills the air; watchful guards keep an eye out for pickpockets and thieves, and citizens go about their day. From here, one can investigate the rest of the city: the Sundown Docks, where both sea and sky faring skips transport people and goods. The Soot Spire, home of inventors and engineers. The Hearthstill, the main residential area. The Downs, a smaller residential area for those with less means.

Outside the city walls, one can explore acres of farmlands to the east and west, or follow Terra’s Pass to the less settled areas, but take care. Past the Skyward Range, out in the smaller burrows and villages, the influence of the city guard diminishes quickly, and you’ll have to keep your wits about you. Bandits along the road are always a risk, and the wildlife are less controlled by regimented hunting.

In your hand is a gemstone, a brilliantly green emerald that, when placed anywhere on the body, will transform into a piece of jewelry with the gemstone set in the center.

---

If the last portal beckoned you through it, you find yourself within that bubble covered city beneath the sea, the city of Salt Spire. Your ears pop with the change in pressure, and the smell of the salty sea fills your nostrils. All around you buildings made of dark stone encrusted with coral and seagrass tower high above your head, the backdrop outside the dome a deep blue, seemingly endless sea filled with fish and merfolk and all other manner of creature swimming through the water. You stand in the heart of it all, surrounded by people with gils on their necks and scales upon their vibrantly colored skin, all of whom seem intrigued by your arrival. You have many options of where to visit in the city under the sea, but where oh where will you go first?

The Salt Spire Library is right before you, an impossibly large building housing thousands upon thousands of books of all genres. Fiction, non-fiction, romance and mystery and all between. You may even find books from your world and others! Oddly enough though, no Calderan history books are to be found, and if you ask for them, the librarians and locals all choose to ignore your questions.

If scholarly pursuits aren't to your interest currently, perhaps a trip to Bluetide Market would be more your style? The marketplace is host to every manner of shop one might ever need: artisans of all varieties, apothecaries and healers in the Shimmer Quarter, the most in fashion undersea clothing shops, food stalls, and all between can be found in Bluetide. There are also the Tideshore and Fogbottom docks on either end of the city. The former allows transport to the surface via large, magical bubbles for those that cannot hold their breath or make the swim themselves yet. The latter allows people to venture further into the sea. Those without their underwater abilities are offered rebreathers for travel that last for four hours before needing to be replaced.

In your hand is a gemstone, a shining sapphire that, when placed anywhere on the body, will transform into a piece of jewelry with the gemstone set in the center.

IGNACIA'S CRADLE/EMBER VEIL

Months ago, a piece of land from Heaven’s Bow fell from the sky and scarred the land below, damaging a part of the city. From that chaos and ruin rose new life, a new ruler, and a new city: Ignacia’s Cradle. Just a short walk from the edge of Grey Ward, the gates of the city are guarded by two massive obsidian golems, and any who did not rise from the lava itself are warned at the entrance that to travel about the city will be most difficult, unless they have obtained a way to mitigate the extreme heat: be that with a charm, an ability, or a potion. The very streets themselves are paved in slabs of volcanic rock, tall spires of buildings constructed and shaped by rapidly cooled lava. The main method of travel are the mine carts, with tracks that wind through the spires ready to take one to almost any location.

Currently, the main feature of Ignacia’s Cradle is the Lava Flats, home of skilled smiths that use the extreme heat of the lava to melt the strongest metals and create unbreakable weapons, glassmakers and jewelers who fashion elaborate headpieces, rings, and amulets. These items are sold at the Ember Market on the outskirts of the Flats.

At the edge of the city lies the Ashfall Terrace, where a small farm using the rich volcanic ash and soil is in its infancy, as well as the Basalt Brewery where clever alchemists are researching ways to use the extreme heat to craft new and unique beverages that they are eager to find folk to test them out on.

---

The hot spring of Ignacia’s Cradle is a breathtaking anomaly located just beyond the Ashfall Terrace, tucked into a secluded crater formed by the celestial impact that gave rise to the city. Here, molten veins from the Lava Flats weave beneath the earth, heating a natural reservoir that bubbled to life amidst the chaos. The spring’s waters shimmer with an ethereal brilliance, hues of deep turquoise blending with molten gold and fiery orange, as though Heaven’s Bow itself left behind a fragment of its essence. Steam rises in curling wisps, carrying the tang of minerals and faint traces of sulfur.

The spring, known to locals as The Ember Veil, is both a sanctuary and a marvel of natural wonder. Its soothing waters are reputed to heal wounds and fortify the spirit, with the temperature kept in perfect balance by an intricate system of naturally formed vents and channels. The edges are lined with intricately carved obsidian benches, where patrons can soak their feet or meditate in the rising steam. Plants resistant to the intense conditions—vivid fire lilies and ash ferns—dot the perimeter, their resilience a symbol of life’s ability to flourish even in the harshest environments.

Sometimes, when two or more individuals share the waters, the spring creates a subtle connection between their minds, allowing memories to surface like ripples on its surface. These shared memories appear as glowing, translucent scenes that hover above the water, visible to all within the spring. Participants can relive moments from their lives, experiencing them through each other’s eyes, fostering profound empathy and understanding.

Another of the spring’s mystical properties occurs when bathers who enter the waters feeling drained, injured, or burdened by grief often find their vitality restored. The waters seem to draw out negative energies and emotions, replacing them with a warm, invigorating sensation that spreads through the body. In rare instances, the spring has been known to accelerate physical healing, mending minor injuries and soothing chronic aches, as though the magic itself is stitching the body back together.

A lesser-known but equally fascinating effect happens on particularly clear nights, when the moonlight reflects on the spring’s surface, some bathers report fleeting glimpses of potential futures. These visions are often cryptic, appearing as brief, dream-like flashes, but they have guided many to life-changing decisions. The alchemists of the Basalt Brewery believe this effect stems from residual cosmic energy, and they have begun experimenting with enhancing it through the addition of rare minerals and lunar elixirs.

RADIANT SUN

The day begins like no other, with the skies painted in hues of golden-pink as the Radiant Sun ascends. Its light spills over the world, warm and soft, caressing the land and filling every heart with a sense of peace. Beneath its glow, emotions of love and connection bloom like never before. Strangers exchange heartfelt smiles, old friends embrace as though no time has passed, and lovers find their feelings deepened, their bonds strengthened.

Even the air feels different—lighter, sweeter, as though the universe itself is celebrating. The songs of birds harmonize with the melodies of impromptu musicians who feel inspired by the sun’s radiance. Those with magical abilities sense their powers of healing and creation magnified, as if the sun itself lends its strength to their intentions. Long-held grudges seem to melt away under the sun’s tender gaze, replaced by tears of reconciliation and words of forgiveness.

The Radiant Sun touches every heart differently:

◾A widow finds peace as memories of her late spouse no longer bring sorrow but gratitude for the love they shared.
◾A timid youth finds the courage to confess their feelings to the person they’ve admired for so long.
◾A gruff warrior lets down their guard, laughing freely with their companions for the first time in years.

For a fleeting moment, the world feels as it should be—unified, harmonious, and drenched in love.

But as the day wanes and the Radiant Sun dips below the horizon, an unease begins to settle...

JEALOUS MOON

The golden light gives way to deep purples and silvers as the Jealous Moon rises, its glow pale and cold. Its light pierces the heart, not to warm it, but to expose the insecurities that lie buried within. Where love had flourished during the day, doubt begins to creep in.

Under the Jealous Moon’s influence, emotions twist and darken:

◾A once-reconciled pair of siblings argue over old grievances, as jealousy over perceived favoritism resurfaces.
◾A couple, who had spent the day lost in each other’s arms, now question each other’s loyalty and intentions.
◾A nobleman, inspired to be generous during the day, grows suspicious of those who received his gifts, fearing they may exploit his kindness.

The air grows heavy with tension, and the magic of the Radiant Sun fades, replaced by the sharp sting of distrust. The moon’s pale light seems to follow people like a judgmental gaze, amplifying every fear, insecurity, and lingering resentment.

Worse still, the night seems endless, as though time itself has bent beneath the weight of the Jealous Moon’s envious glow. For three long days and nights, the moon lingers high in the sky, its pale, piercing light casting a shadow over hearts and minds, amplifying discord and despair. Its power sows strife among even the closest bonds, driving some to dangerous extremes. Yet, when all seems lost, the scholars of the three factions unite their wisdom and uncover a glimmer of hope—a means to dispel the moon’s cruel influence. For those who have not yet succumbed to jealousy’s grip, there remains a chance to reclaim harmony, a chance for redemption before the damage becomes irreversible.

The solution lies not in complex rituals or rare relics but in the simplest and most instinctive actions: physical connection. To weaken the moon’s hold, people must embrace one another—offering a hug, a handshake, or even resting a hand on someone’s shoulder. These gestures of closeness disrupt the isolation and mistrust that the moon thrives upon. Sitting side by side or holding hands creates a barrier against its oppressive light, reminding the afflicted that they are not alone. Even small acts, like sharing warmth through proximity or clasping arms in solidarity, build a shield of connection that the moon cannot penetrate.

As these actions ripple through the night, the Jealous Moon’s light begins to dim, its sharp, cold glow softening until it fades from the sky entirely. The tension in the air lifts, replaced by a quiet calm that feels almost foreign after the chaos of the past three days. Slowly, the world seems to exhale, and the darkness that clung so tightly to the hearts of many begins to loosen its grip. People step back from the brink of despair, their minds clearing as if waking from a long, disorienting dream. Relationships strained by the moon’s influence begin to mend as apologies are exchanged, tears are shed, and bonds are reaffirmed.

ALL IS WELL(?)

With the Radiant Sun rising again, its golden-pink hues spilling across the horizon, life begins to return to normal. The birds resume their morning songs, markets reopen, and the hum of daily activity fills the air once more. Though traces of the moon’s influence linger in whispered memories, there is a collective sense of relief and gratitude among the people—gratitude for the light, for connection, and for a second chance to heal.

In the outskirts of Ignacia's Cradle, Aella and Terra, two of the three leaders of the factions, come together to address the gathered crowds. Together they assure the people that this celestial event was a rare anomaly, something never before recorded in the annals of history. They explain that while the Jealous Moon’s influence was unprecedented and deeply unsettling, it was a unique alignment of cosmic forces that is unlikely to occur again in their lifetimes—or ever.

The leaders thank the people for their resilience and compassion, emphasizing how their acts of unity—simple gestures of closeness and connection—proved stronger than the moon’s envy. They commend the scholars for their quick thinking and the Visitors for their role in guiding others through the chaos. Finally, they urge everyone to move forward, not in fear of what has passed, but with the knowledge that even in the darkest moments, their strength lies in the bonds they share.

QUESTBOARD

Settled in? Good. It's time to make your way to the Questboard located in every city in numerous, easy to access locations. That is, if you want to make any kind of impact on the world or just get some Bones for anything you might wish to purchase. Visitors are given a very small stipend in which to survive every month, but all it does is keep you fed and housed. These quests will assure you greater wealth, and they're the main reason you're here: each finished quest helps the Calderans fix their shattering world.

Quests can be accepted at the questboard via magically signed parchment upon the board. Just sign your name to accept and the paper will be whisked away... somewhere. You're not actually sure. Probably nothing to concern yourself with.

Once quests are completed, earned Bones will be dropped off at the character's residence by Bonita, the mysterious artisan who has supposedly handcrafted every Bone circulating in Caldera. Please do not speak to her, she startles easily.

*February will be the last month to complete quests for this rotation. New ones will go up on March 1st.

OOC NOTES

Welcome to Caldera's fifth TDM! All characters awaken in a strange tavern with nothing save the clothes on their backs, all of their powers stripped, and a piece of parchment directing them downstairs to the Tavernkeeper. There is a thread of all questions answered by the Tavernkeeper here, and if you have more, feel free to ask there for what would be offered ICly.

For OOC questions, please direct themhere.

All locations are available to be explored! Ignacia's Cradle and Ember Veil have been added, along with details about the Violet Drop regarding the Cult of Triton.

The TDM is game canon and all completed quests can be carried over once accepted into the game.

Participation in the Radiant Sun/Jealous Moon effects is not mandatory.

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Comments

Samwise Gamgee | The Lord of the Rings | Dryad

[his_gardener]

Tavern:
It was quite a lot to take in, and it seemed that Sam had found himself on an unexpected journey once more. For a bit the Hobbit sat there at the bar of the tavern, holding the Molten Mead as he looked around. It was strange to be so far from home once again, and this time all on his own and not a soul that he knew. And from what he'd seen not many were familiar with a hobbit either, it had taken quite a bit for him to get anyone to notice he'd been there.

But the most dire of his questions had been answered, and he was now left with the matter of deciding what it was that he needed to do. Tearing off a bit of bread he took a bite before lifting the pint.

"It's no big deal right? Not like it's the fate of the world or anything like before. Well it is, but there's not a great evil or armies, or a magical ring driving everyone mad. They just need a little help is all, and who better than to lend a hand than me?"

Grey Ward:
While the breeze of the first portal had been awfully tempting, the scent of damp stone and wet earth reminded Sam a bit more home, of the Shire. It seemed more like a place that would be fitting for a hobbit such as himself, someplace where you could properly work the ground and grow something. Plus the mushrooms meant that there would likely be plenty of things he'd be able to find for a stew if needed. After all it wasn't like he'd been allowed to pack much, and there was only so long he'd last on the bread and mead he'd had at the tavern. He'd been rather surprised to find himself in a bustling city, tall folk everywhere and hurrying around, stained glass giving off all manner of color as the light passed through it. The smell of food was a welcome relief though after her previous worries, though he would have to find a way to earn his keep and afford a bit of dinner. It was then that he noticed the gemstone in his hand, and Sam took a moment to look at it,

"Were'd you come from? Suppose this means I'll have a way to pay for dinner, and perhaps a place to stay for a day or two until I find my way."

Jealous Moon:
Sam didn't much care for it, the prolonged night and the effect that this moon seemed to be having on different folk. He'd seen plenty of people who had been nice, and kind, and caring in the day before seem to change completely. People becoming selfish and paranoid with the prolonged darkness. Sam blamed it on the absence of the sun and the warmth and light that it provided, without it to chase away the shadows and the cold then it seemed like people might forget what that warmth was like.

"It's like a night that refuses to end. Like the light has left the world, but that doesn't mean that we have to give to the darkness, that we have to forget what it means to be good and honest folk. But this will be a passing thing, the sun will shine again, and it will be all the clearer. We just have to keep going, have to hold to all that is good and right, the love and friendship that we had before this foul moon rose."

Tavern

[holdshisown]

The Tavern was not his favorite place to visit, mostly because he did not fully trust it, but he did swing by from time to time just to see if any new arrivals could use a bit of a helping hand. Or at least a fair warning that the drinks here could come with some unexpected side effects.

There is one, he sees, that is sitting by himself with one of those selfsame drinks right now. The man is a bit shorter than most folks here, but having spent so much time with Barcus Maedhros had learned to keep an eye out for those who did not quite reach his own prodigious size.

"No. No evil armies to be found here yet, my friend, a fact I'm quite grateful for myself." The tall elf ays with a slight smile as he sits himself down next to Sam. "I take it you are newly arrived here, yes? Has anyone spoken to you about the way things work here yet? If not I'm more than happy to awnser any questions you might have."

"Ah, but where are my manners. I am Maedhros, my friend, and though the circumstances are far from ideal it is good to make your aquaintance."

[his_gardener]

"Yes, just arrived though I'm still not entirely certain of how or where."

Same stared at the elf though, so tall and just as he remembered, it was a sight that he would never be used to or forget. Especially not since all the elves had left for the west, for Valinor; as had Frodo.

"Samwise Gamgee, of the shire. And far from ideal they may be, that just makes it all the better to find new acquaintances and friendly faces."

[holdshisown]

"I'm not anyone is quite sure how it is we are brought here." He says with an apologetic shrug. "As to where we are, however? Now that I can help shed some light on. This world is called Caldera and, as I'm sure you've already been informed, we are supposed to help save it."

And Maedhros was tall even for an elf. He'd be surprised to hear that his people have left for Valinor, though, for he was under the impression they were not allowed back after the kinslayings.

"It is an honor to meet you Samwise Gamgee, though I can't say I've ever heard of the shire before. Now isn't that the truth of it? And your face strikes me as an exceptionally friendly one, if you don't mind me saying so?"

[his_gardener]

"I don't mind at all, I've heard quite a few things, and being a bit friendly in a strange place can be helpful. Especially with so many tall folk around."

It certainly seemed to make it a good bit easier in talking with them, and in finding a little more about Caldera out.

"So they say, but no one seems to have much thought on just how we're to do that. Is there some great evil or something to be rid of or vanquish?"

[holdshisown]

"More helpful than some might think. It is not just strength of arms that helps to save a world. What use is it to save it, after all, if there is no kindness to fill it after?" So having genuinely good people about to keep it all from draining away because of conflict and misery is just as important, he thinks.

"Truth is we're not so sure what it is exactly that we are supposed to save it from." He admits. "Every now and then some disasster strikes, it seems. The sky falling down, shadowss rising from the sea or volcanoes springing up from out of nowhere... though what is causing it I do not know and the leaders here are not too forthcoming with information."

[his_gardener]

"Having something worth fighting for, it's the only way to keep going when all hope seems lost. Having that reason to keep going, to keep putting one foot in front of the other even when you feel like you've no strength left to go on."

Rosie had been that for him, and the Shire, Mr. Frodo, the garden. Every time when he'd almost given up, it was the thought of them that kept him going. Their faces that gave him the will to not give up.

"Then I suppose we'll just have to do what we can, where we can, to make the world a better place. Start with the small things as they come up and work towards the bigger problems when they come up. Eventually that'll take care of the problem right?"

[holdshisown]

"That is so. Without hope we are lost, this I know well." He'd lost his before coming here and it had not left him better off for it. He hoped to do better here than to fall into that pit of despair again.

"So it seems. For though I do not trust the leaders here the people have done me no wrong and do not deserve to their world fall apart around them. And hopefully, through all our efforts no matter how big or small they might be, we might avert whatever disaster is causing all of this."

[his_gardener]

"With good folk like you here, I'm sure that the people will have plenty of help. And if the ones in charge aren't doing right, then it's not right and something ought to be done about it.

Though surly they want to help, otherwise they wouldn't be asking for help and bringing people from so far to try and find a way to fix the problem."

Sam tried to give most the benefit of a doubt, until he saw reason not to trust them, some sign of darkness or ill nature.

[holdshisown]

Good folk like him? Maedhros is not so sure he'd class himself as 'good folk' exactly. He tries, of course, to be better than he had been but he is still someone that has done a lot of bad things during his time. "I do hope so. The people here are not bad and do deserve our help." He says. "As to the leaders... it can be hard to tell the intentions of beings like that. They may mean well, but until they start to be a bit more transparent it is hard to place any great amount of trust in them."

Maedhros do try to do so as well, for the most part, but he's also a bit of a paranoid bastard when it comes to things like this.

Grey Ward

[lost_and_foundry]

"Oh! I don't think you're meant to sell them. Actually, I don't even know if you can. They're meant to identify which faction you've chosen, for whatever that's worth." The person who approaches is...actually maybe an inch or two shorter than Sam, which makes them both an oddity in this city, at least among grownups. Barcus is always on the lookout for his own kin, and therefore halflings, gnomes, and other smaller folk are quick to catch his eye. He doesn't look much like a hobbit, aside from the height, though: his skin is the color of slate, and the proportions are odd, more willowy than a hobbit should be. That, and he's wearing boots.

There is a small emerald in the earring in his right ear, and he taps it now to illustrate his point. "Usually it just turns into a piece of jewelry."

Maybe it's being courteous to someone who's had negative experiences with magical jewelry in the past.

"Are you a new arrival? I can help you get settled if you'd like. You won't have to worry about starving; they'll give you enough currency to feed yourself."

((The scream I scrumpt! Sam! ;_; ))

[his_gardener]

Well, it was good to see there were others besides just tall folk here. And if it was meant to be some sort of identification it was awfully strange to be made from something such as a gem. Not that it being jewelry would have changed much of how Sam had received it, having never been one to wear such things. Maybe a nice brooch or pin, but something like a ring or earring would be all but ignored.

"I am, not but a few hours ago. And I'm afraid I don't know much about this place, but it's awful kind of them to do something like that."

((Glad someone is excited to see him.))

[lost_and_foundry]

The gnome's smile is warm, and therefore hopefully reassuring. "I've been here since autumn, and winter's coming to a close now. It's..." He trails off, searching for words. "Its got a lot of good points. Most people are upset to have been brought here against their will, though. You're really taking it in stride."

That's going to be an asset. Better to approach things with a can-do attitude, in Barcus' humble opinion, than begin with resentment. Even if you're the victim of a supernatural abduction, you'll get further with action than with irritation. "They want our help, anyway, so it's only fair they make sure we have shelter and food. You'll probably find money in your pocket by tomorrow morning, or Bonita will leave some at your door. The currency is called Bones, but they're...not actually bones, they're just coins."

He offers a handclasp. "My name is Barcus. Barcus Wroot. I'm sort of a tinkerer and smith, here."

thank you for the patience, a few things kept me away.

[his_gardener]

"They need the help, and it wouldn't be right to refuse to do so what with it being the end of the world and all. There's no way I could just do nothing, just didn't think anything about needing money is all. Figured I'd be able to earn my fair share."

Sam accepts the handclasp, returning it firmly,

"Samewise Gamgee. A gardener, helped to replant most of the shire after everything was finally finished I did."

[lost_and_foundry]

Barcus looks thoughtful as he shakes hands, his own grip quite firm, especially for how small he is. The vast majority of any physical strength he possesses is in his hands, to begin with. "That was more or less my thought at first," he agrees. "Bit rude of them to not ask first, but a job to be done is more important than formalities."

He's spoken to a lot of other people, since, who have made some good points. "We may be in the minority there; I fear a lot of other Visitors have been taken away from urgent work of their own and are distinctly unhappy about it. I have mixed feelings, I think. The leaders aren't very forthcoming about what exactly they need from us."

"But in the end, the people around us are innocent and need help, so who am I to refuse, if I can do something?" He brightens a little. "Oh, you'll do well once spring rolls around, then. I have a couple friends who can create plants out of little or nothing, but they seem to prefer the wild to the garden. Me, I can grow mushrooms and that's about it, unless I have help."

[his_gardener]

"Perhaps they don't know all that much and that's why they asked for the help, so they might be able to figure it out."

People all approached problems differently, and what with so many different people here, there was bound to be someone that might be able to figure it out.

"Growing things in the wild is good and all, but it nice to be able to ensure they get all the right nutrients and water they need to grow proper like. Especially if it's going to be a garden for eating."

Though having a few good mushrooms around never hurt nothing either.

[lost_and_foundry]

Listening to this halfling talk, a peaceful matter-of-fact approach, Barcus can't help but hope he stays. They've had a lot of large, fierce warriors lately. A steadying influence would be good to see. If there's any method to the faction leaders' madness, maybe they're building up a mix of talents and personalities.

"I'm reluctant to draw any conclusions yet," he admits. "And I'm comfortable here, perhaps more so than I ought to be. I have work back home, as well, but already I'm closer to the people here than most of my clan at home."

"Would you like to come back to my cottage and at least have a meal? My garden is, I'm afraid, not much to look at, but it's better than wandering around town, and I do feel those of us who are half the height of everyone else ought to look out for one another."

[his_gardener]

Seemed like there was always something to be done, part of the reason why Sam was happy with his small lot in life, his garden that he could tend to himself. His home and family, the hardest part of being here would be being without them.

"I recon there are a lot of folk who'd like to get back home, but have plenty they need to get done here as well."

At the invitation Sam smiled,

"I'd like, so long as I wouldn't be imposing or nothing. It sounds an awful lot more inviting than just roaming around trying to find my way. And while I've got nothing against the tall folk, they sometimes forget about us littler ones."

[lost_and_foundry]

He's a lucky man to have something like that to go back to. Or, so Barcus would say if he were aware. He smiles again, thoughtful. "You know, I don't know if anyone's really voiced it in those terms. Work they need to get done here. There are people who've settled in better than others, and some who want to stay, but I don't know how many really feel like there's a job here they've committed to."

Except Barcus has, and now that he says this aloud, he realizes that. It's mostly the people, but it's not just the people.

"Well, good. Come with me, then. Honestly, if you need a space to stay for a little while, we can make that work, as well, as long as you don't mind my cat."

"I have a roommate, but he won't mind a bit. He's a drow, but don't be afraid of him, he's got a good heart." Barcus offers his hand, apropos of just not getting lost in the shuffle of taller people, and leads the way across the larger street and down a tidy alley toward the edge of town.

Grey Ward (SAAAAAM!)

[borelblue]

"Fortunately, that won't be necessary."

One of the nearby tall folk approaches, his smile amiable. His ears are pointed, but he's not quite an elf, either. Not to mention that proportions are more elongated, especially in the neck and limbs. Nor does Sam resemble any race from his own world. The closest would be the Lalafells, but all they really share is height and pointed ears.

"Forgive me for intruding - I happened to notice you appear here, and thought perhaps I might lend my aid should you need it." He bows. "I am Aymeric de Borel. Welcome to Grey Ward, and to Land faction."

[his_gardener]

"Samwise Gamgee, of the Shire. And thank you, I'd be most grateful for the help given. I don't know much about this land, besides what bit the Tavernkeep with the world dying and all."

But he thought the land had been called Caldera, perhaps the magic had taken him to one place that wasn't dying. Or he'd just heard wrong, but either way Sam was glad for this fellow's help and kindness.

[borelblue]

"Ah, yes. Fortunately, much of daily life is simple enough - if only between one tumultuous event and the next. We can get you settled in before that, I'm sure."

He indicates to the gemstone in Sam's hand. "You'll be keeping that. It is a symbol of which faction you belong to." Aymeric pulls a pendant from under his armour to show his own green gem.

"Lodgings are provided to us all free of charge. You may pick a house from those available in the residential areas. I'm sure there's something that will suit your needs."

In other words, there's bound to be a Hobbit-sized house around for Sam.

"Food will be easy enough to come by as well. In fact, as a means of welcoming you to Caldera, perhaps I might treat you to a spot of luncheon?"

[his_gardener]

Well that was all very kind, and yet at the same time proper since he had been invited and was expected to be helping them to save the world and all. But still he hadn't expected for a home to be provided, just simple lodging would have been sufficent.

At the offer of lunch though, Sam nodded butting away the gemstone.

"I'd like that. A proper meal would be good, especially when thinking about everything that's going on. Though I suppose I should start looking for a place after, and maybe find a bit of work so I do my part and all."

Jealous Moon

[utulien_aure]

A laugh rings out from the crown of a nearby tree, where Fingon has been doing his own musing upon the moon.

He turns to look for the speaker, and upon spotting Sam, calls down to him. "A wise and kindly thought, friend! May it lighten the spirits of all who hear it!"

[his_gardener]

"Sometimes that's all it takes, a kind word, to lift the spirits on someone struggling with the darkness. If someone needs to I hope they do hear it, all the better if it can lighten the load."

Sam looked up and offered a nod, he hadn't really been all that certain whether anyone had been listening.