conversations.from: system
conversations.value: Some people say the universe runs on a precise clock -- each millennium, century, hour, second, millisecond ticking out in myriad forms: the rotation of planets, the rise and fall of waves, the blink of an eye, or in a series of breaths. 
  
  They say that time stops for no man. But for a few individuals it pauses, for the length of a dream. 
  
  There are some rare individuals who have mastered the art of dream walking. Not much is known about these individuals, or their powers, and how they enter and move about the dream paths. They are both revered and reviled. Persecuted, yet coveted. They are called Sand Walkers.
  
  You are one of them.
  
  You have always felt somewhat estranged from your friends and family, leading a second life that they will never be able to fully understand. But for the most part, you've rejoiced in your ability and felt like you had a place in the city of Antumbra.
  
  That may all be changing, though. Two days ago, the king of Faloria was reported dead, killed in his sleep with no sign of wounds or poison. A day later, it was announced that a Sand Walker was the murderer. Rumors are spreading of new legislature outlawing dream walking. There have been public cries for registries, imprisonment, exile, or -- from extremist groups --  calls for witch-hunts and retribution. 
  
  Last night, while walking the dream paths, you were surprised to see a small mouse scurry in front of you, holding a glowing envelope. Upon opening it, you saw the following message:
  
  "If you have found this, you are in terrible danger. We all are. Find me, and I'll tell you what I know. Tomorrow night. Follow the mouse."
  
  _Character Submission_:
  
  _This story takes place in a world that can best be described as 1900s-inspired colonial urban fantasy. This world is like our own, but with magic. In addition to Sand Walkers, members of the church have been known to perform miraculous feats. Other than that, there's a lot of superstitious beliefs, but no one really knows how magic works and rarely does anyone see anything magical, especially not if it's different than Sand Walking. This world has a lower population density, and more distance between major city centers. It has bicycles, envelopes, telegraph, and other era-appropriate tech -- phones have only just been invented, and are only available to the very wealthy._ 
  
  _I'm looking for three to four characters to help explore this world with me. Players should be comfy writing in 3rd person, past tense POV. I'm looking for characters that have a sense of depth and personality._
  
  _If you're interested, submit your character description, along with the following info in notes to the narrator. Unless there's a reason for the info below to be publicly known, don't include it in your character bio. Other players will find out about this info when and if they encounter it in the story._
  
  _Feel free to get creative when making a character. Custom Player cards are welcome and encouraged. :)_
  
  _In your notes to me, include:_
  
  _1. Sand Walkers tend to keep their abilities secret, although some spokespeople or famous figures are more public with their powers. Who, if anyone, knows about your character's rare ability?_
  
  _2. Sand Walkers can change their appearance when they travel the paths of dreams. Most have a habitual form, and it takes effort to create and maintain a form that you're not accustomed to. What does your character look like when they are dream walking? Do they look like themselves, or is their avatar different?_ 
  
  _3. Sand Walkers find it easier to reach the dream paths if they have a routine around falling asleep. What does your character do before sleeping? Do they have a charm or stuffed animal? A prayer or incantation? A getting-ready-for-bed routine? A special chemise, robe, or sleeping gown?_ 
  
  _4. Most Sand Walkers find out their powers when they accidentally stumble into someone else's dreams. Once they've discovered their powers, there's no formal training. They either are self taught or search out a mentor. Some Sand Walkers make their power a profession, but mostly they are a fragmented bunch. Is your character isolated, or do they have a mentor or some other Sand Walker friends?_
  
  _5. The church in this world is similar to the Catholic church, but is known as The Church of Veran (Aka. Veranism) Is your character religious? What is their opinion of the church?_
  
  _6. What are your character's three biggest fears?_ 
  
  _7. What makes your character feel relaxed or happy?_
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Your search for knowledge drives you to test your theories, even in dangerous situations. Use this try out an idea and get more info.
conversations.prefix: Trial and Error (copy):
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You can think clearly and calmly, even under pressure. Use this to keep control of your emotions and demeanor.
conversations.prefix: Unshakeable (copy):
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Sometimes the things we know and take for granted can be turned on their head, and the strange can be familiar. Use this to re-examine new and old truths.
conversations.prefix: Strangely Familiar (copy):
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: A simple, unopened envelope, sealed with red wax.
conversations.prefix: Envelope:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You're quick to jump to the defense of a stranger or friend. Use this when you need to to respond quickly.
conversations.prefix: Quick on Your Feet (copy):
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You're willing to dive headlong into the unknown. Use this when you wants to tackle something unknown.
conversations.prefix: Curiouser & Curiouser:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You've demonstrated team-work and leadership. Use this to literally or figuratively light the way.
conversations.prefix: Ray of Light:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: The universe doesn't always make sense, but that's the beauty of it. Use this to conquer or call forth another paradox.
conversations.prefix: Holy Paradox:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Despite the enormous risk of failure, you're always willing to try. Use this to overcome something challenging.
conversations.prefix: Not Afraid to Fail:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: A solid, heavy rock. Only usable in the dream paths.
conversations.prefix: Rock (copy):
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: A heavy, solid rock.
conversations.prefix: Rock:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Once you're inside, use your keen wit and sharp eyes and ears to find out more information from your surroundings that may help later on down the road.
conversations.prefix: Find Out More:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You pay attention to your surroundings and know how to blend in. Use this to avoid notice.
conversations.prefix: Chameleon (copy):
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Small and fast, this mouse is difficult to spot and even more difficult to follow.
conversations.prefix: The Mouse:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Located near the edge of the Capital district, this office is the artery for all Antumbra post.
conversations.prefix: The Post Office:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: The headquarters of the holy church of Veran, located in the holy quarters near the Capital. Many make it their life's mission to visit this church.
conversations.prefix: The Heart of Veran:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Alistair's religious teacher and mentor.
conversations.prefix: Father Hayes:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You're well connected in the real world, and are always able to find a friend willing to help you -- whether it's in the streets, church, or government.
conversations.prefix: Connections:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You're driven by a need to discover the unknown. You're bored by the mundane, and need novelty in your life.
conversations.prefix: Explorer:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Things need to change, and you're going to help instigate that change.
conversations.prefix: Revolutionary:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Find the Sand Walker Lucia told you about.
conversations.prefix: Find Isaak Soriano:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: The postmaster of Antumbra. A Sand Walker, and well connected business man.
conversations.prefix: Isaak Soriano:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: An abandoned mews, once used as a house for falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey. Now, it lays unused and dilapidated.
conversations.prefix: The Mews:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: A solid, heavy rock. Only usable in the dream paths.
conversations.prefix: Rock:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Even when you're awake, you're day-dreaming. You're easily distracted and can't seem to take things seriously.
conversations.prefix: Head in the Clouds:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You spend a lot of time in dreaming, and your body has become frail and weak as a result.
conversations.prefix: Strong Soul, Weak Body:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Your dreams revolve around you, and you don't see why the real world shouldn't do the same.
conversations.prefix: The Star of Your Own Dreams:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You have a soul mate. You know because you've seen them in your dreams. Now all you need to do is find them in real life.
conversations.prefix: Soul Mate:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Most Sand Walkers have absolute control of their own actions when dreaming, but your subconscious sometimes sneaks up on you with embarrassing or absurd events.
conversations.prefix: Naked in Front of the Classroom:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You have a strong opinion. And no one is going to talk you out of it.
conversations.prefix: Stubborn:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You're power hungry, and always striving for more than you have. You figure if you can dream it, you can be it. But what works in your dreams may not always work in reality.
conversations.prefix: If You Can Dream It:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You always see both sides of a conflict, and try to help others find a middle ground.
conversations.prefix: Peacemaker:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The world is like a game to you, and you love nothing more than figuring out the right moves.
conversations.prefix: Strategist:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: If Sand Walking has taught you anything, it's that you can always influence and take control of your situation. You're able to confidently make your way, both in dreams and in reality.
conversations.prefix: Confidence:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Yes, yes. Everyone dreams. But you dream big! You're creative and are always thinking up new ideas and novel approaches to mundane things.
conversations.prefix: Dreaming Big:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Sand Walking is just easier for you. You don't need any charm or ritual to reach the dream paths, and you find that you can fall asleep almost anywhere.
conversations.prefix: Out Like A Light:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You have someone in the real world looking out for you. They help you out however they can -- whether it's money, a place to hide, or watching over you while you sleep.
conversations.prefix: Tuck Me In:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: In your dreams, you're able to do it all -- with an extra helping of confidence and physical prowess. But for some reason, you just can't seem to tap into that persona in your waking life.
conversations.prefix: Alter Ego:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: It's tough not being able to share all of the fantastic things you've seen. You have trouble keeping secrets.
conversations.prefix: I Had This Amazing Dream:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You have an innate understanding of the materials in the dream paths and the will to enforce your own visions. You are able to create complex objects more quickly and with less effort than other Sand Walkers.
conversations.prefix: Dream Weaver:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You frequently see flashes of things to come, and are able to anticipate the future in certain situations. Right after you shake the eerie sense that you've done this before.
conversations.prefix: Deja Vu:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You've suffered a tremendous loss -- a loved one, your fortune, your reputation. You won't be satisfied until you get your revenge.
conversations.prefix: Revenge:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You've spent time in enough dreams that you're familiar with the ins and outs of peoples' minds. You can generally figure out the motives of those you're interacting with, and know how to elicit specific emotional reactions.
conversations.prefix: Insight:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You like tinkering with things, figuring out how things work, and creating neat gadgets. The world is your toy.
conversations.prefix: Inventor:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The world and the dream paths are fascinating, and you can't get enough of them. You're always learning new things, and studying the way things work.
conversations.prefix: Scholar:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You're determined to become a master of your skills, and learn all you can about Sand Walking.
conversations.prefix: Become a Master:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You have an animal companion. You're not sure if it has figured out how to get to the dream world from the physical world, or vice versa, but you're glad for its company and help.
conversations.prefix: Otherworld Companion:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You need to save a cherished family member, friend, or love. Whether it's healing their illness, getting them out of a tough spot, or something else, you'll do what it takes to prove your loyalty and love.
conversations.prefix: Save a Loved One:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: A Sand Walker known for causing trouble. No one knows what his physical form is like, and it's difficult to recognize him in the dream paths because he's able to fluidly change his form -- something other Sand Walkers have trouble doing.
conversations.prefix: Proteus:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You always have a cause to fight for. You care about the people around you, and are always looking out for them.
conversations.prefix: Champion:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You've been lied to your whole life. You're on a mission to discover the truth, and won't stop until you've gotten it.
conversations.prefix: Discover the Truth:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You need money. Whether it's to pay off debts, or to help your family and friends, you've got to increase your fortunes.
conversations.prefix: Money Is a Necessary Evil:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: In the dream paths, she appears as a large horned owl with copper, brown, and black-tipped feathers.
conversations.prefix: Lucia Striffin:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: The cleanest, most austere district in Antumbra, the Capital holds the palace, government buildings, and borders the Holy district and Heart of Veran.
conversations.prefix: The Capital:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You've spent your entire life being the underdog. You're going to gain some respect or recognition -- perhaps from one important person, or maybe from several.
conversations.prefix: Gain Recognition:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You've been chained up -- by your own fears, by a contractual obligation, or you're literally indentured. You'll win your freedom, no matter what it takes.
conversations.prefix: Win Your Freedom:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Your character is deeply religious, and could be described as having a guardian angel. Luck is often on your side. You have an angelic glow when walking the dream paths.
conversations.prefix: The Lord is My Shepherd:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You want nothing more than to care for those around you. You seek out opportunities to help and heal others.
conversations.prefix: Healer:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: A neighborhood of Antumbra, known for it's liveliness and charm. Not a bad neighborhood, it has students, homeless, entrepreneurs, street markets, workers, prophets, and food stalls.
conversations.prefix: Venustas:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Unlike other Sand Walkers, you maintain a strong connection to the physical world, and are easily awoken. Your presence in the dream paths is also weak.
conversations.prefix: Light Sleeper:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You're not sure how long you have to get information from Lucia or examine the dreamscape she's trapped in — but you get the sense that time is limited.
conversations.prefix: Learn What You Can:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Warn your loved ones, then leave as fast as you can.
conversations.prefix: Save Yourself:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You were told to follow the mouse, but it just went down a tiny hole. How you follow it?
conversations.prefix: Down the Mouse Hole:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You sometimes feel like you're sleep walking in the real world. You can sometimes manifest your will in reality, healing or altering things around you. Your manifestations tend to be small, and you are immensely tired afterward, sometimes falling asleep immediately.
conversations.prefix: I Must Be Still Dreaming:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You're charismatic and charming, and you have a face that could launch a thousand ships. People are inclined to listen to you, and even those who might otherwise be jealous can't help but admit you're pretty great.
conversations.prefix: Just Dreamy:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You prefer your time in dreams so much, it's hard to connect with your body when you're not dreaming. You're groggy whenever you're in the real world, and prone to mistakes.
conversations.prefix: Groggy:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You are disconnected from your body when you dream walk, and can't be woken by anything in the physical world. It's obvious to those who see you sleep what you are.
conversations.prefix: Heavy Sleeper:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Sand Walking is a curse, and you're being punished with it. When you walk the dream paths, your surroundings often change for the worse, and even in your waking life you feel a sense of dread.
conversations.prefix: Nightmares:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The realm of dreams. The place is nebulous and shifting, full of shadows, lights, and winding paths.
conversations.prefix: The Dream Paths:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You can think clearly and calmly, even under pressure. Use this to keep control of your emotions and demeanor.
conversations.prefix: Unshakeable:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You pay attention to your surroundings and know how to blend in. Use this to avoid notice.
conversations.prefix: Chameleon:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You're quick to jump to the defense of a stranger or friend. Use this when you need to to respond quickly.
conversations.prefix: Quick on Your Feet:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Your search for knowledge drives you to test your theories, even in dangerous situations. Use this try out an idea and get more info.
conversations.prefix: Trial and Error:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Time stretches in the dream paths, and you can use this time to make some belated introductions, regroup, and form a plan.
conversations.prefix: Use Your Time Wisely:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Sometimes the things we know and take for granted can be turned on their head, and the strange can be familiar. Use this to re-examine new and old truths.
conversations.prefix: Strangely Familiar:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: After what you learned from Lucia, you know that these visitors are here for you. You've got a few precious minutes to make your escape.
conversations.prefix: A Hasty Escape:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The Haloed City, capital of the country of Falor and a mecca of religious study. The city center is austere, with wide streets and clay roofs, but its sub quarters and minor neighborhoods are brightly colored mazes thick with people, clamor, and savory scents.
conversations.prefix: Antumbra:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: A well-known political figure. Fiercely religious and dangerously intelligent, he also has a reputation for keeping his word and always getting results. He is a friend of the king's younger brother.
conversations.prefix: Horace White:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: An all-girls university — the only in Antumbra — that was founded nearly 30 years ago. The modest campus was situated on the edge of the city, in the Academic Quarter. The grounds were tucked between the grander Tunston College and the Bastlet Trade School.
conversations.prefix: St. Andrea's Cross University:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: The hilltop neighborhood of Monte de Borbeltas is a center of goods and services. Frequented mostly by the rich and middle class. The shops and homes are some of the oldest in the city.
conversations.prefix: Monte de Borbeltas:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Someone is at the back door. What will you do?
conversations.prefix: Who's There?:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Something strange is happening. Find out what's going on.
conversations.prefix: Find Out More:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You've accidentally started eavesdropping. Leave or stay — but either one requires stealth.
conversations.prefix: Quiet as a Mouse:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Widowed, financially strained, and suffering from insomnia and depression, Mrs. Adams is far from the easiest to get along with. She has a soft spot for music and art, all the same.
conversations.prefix: Mrs. Adams:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Now that they're gone, you're able to leave. But you'll have to be careful if you are to avoid any patrols.
conversations.prefix: A Careful Retreat:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You recognize Katherine from the dream paths walking past your boarding house. What is she doing here? And does she know about the patrols?
conversations.prefix: A Possible Connection:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Aside from helping Cory, you don't want to be caught in the middle of a disturbance.
conversations.prefix: Three Sheets to the Wind:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Like in chess, the best way to prevent the future exploitation of a weakness  is to set up an early defense. 
conversations.prefix: Overprotection:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You can try to meet with a family servant or with an old friend. Which do you pick? 
conversations.prefix: High or Low:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: A politician, and childhood friend of Raymond White. His serious and earnest attitude is his political hallmark, he is  relaxed with his friends.
conversations.prefix: Gillen Triste:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: The man is always willing to ante up or help out a friend. He speaks coarsely, but with a smile.
conversations.prefix: Cory Boyd:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: This will work for now, but what about tomorrow and tomorrow night? Come up with a plan. 
conversations.prefix: Planning Ahead:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: (This challenge is only for Katherine.) Katherine's dreams seem unfamiliar and dangerous tonight. 
conversations.prefix: Uneasy Sleep:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: (One card per player, please. This challenge is only for Alistair, Ray, and Jasper.) Find the rest of the group, and share with them what's happened since you last met. 
conversations.prefix: Find the Group:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You've met again. Time to catch up and fill each other in on what's happened while you were awake.
conversations.prefix: Use Your Time Wisely:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Isaak Soriano has instructed Ray to find the beacon -- in this case, it's a beacon of light reaching high into the sky, coming from a lantern in an empty campsite.
conversations.prefix: Find the Beacon:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You flee into dreams in order to create the ultimate escape from life. You are possessed of an irrepressible imagination, and a fanciful nature, a natural artist.
conversations.prefix: Escapist:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: Dreams are your fantasy life, and you feel limitless when you're amongst them. One thing you never lack while Sand-Walking is imagination.
conversations.prefix: Fantasy:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You're running into dreams for a reason. Find out what it is, and find a way to connect with the life you keep leaving behind.
conversations.prefix: Dream Life:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You don't want to be seen, heard, or spoken to if you can avoid it.
conversations.prefix: Timid:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Everything's worth trying...probably three times, to make sure it doesn't change.
conversations.prefix: Experimental:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You have mastered the ability to put anyone at ease with just the slightest smile. It is practiced but also sincere. It lets everyone know, you are their friend.
conversations.prefix: Comforting Smile:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You are shy, withdrawn, and quiet as a mouse. You are used to using this to your advantage.
conversations.prefix: Meek:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: Jasper's odd curse has put him in a lot of situations where he's had to be a fast talker. 
conversations.prefix: Practiced Fibber:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: There's always a solution, with enough trial and error.
conversations.prefix: Experimental:
conversations.from: human
conversations.value: You seem to always want results immediately. Everything is urgent, when things that you think should be quick take too long you get irritated and you often put unreasonable time schedules on things that do not need them.
conversations.prefix: impatient:
conversations.from: gpt
conversations.value: You have met true peers in the Dream Roads. Through shared danger, united by a mouse and a mission, you have forged unexpected bonds of trust.
conversations.prefix: Bonds of Trust:
conversations.from: human
conversations.prefix: Wild: