pawnstorm | INTRO ♚ FEBRUARY

Entry tags:

INTRO ♚ FEBRUARY

WELCOME TO CAISSA

We’ve all had those dreams: you wake up on a table, to blurry, ominous images and the certainty that you are absolutely buck-naked in a room full of strangers. This is not quite it.

Instead, you come awake to the sun on your face. The soft burble of water nearby. The hustle and bustle of a busy street and the faint, fortifying smell of bread. You open your eyes and there’s no one there at your bedside, but there is what appears to be the end of the world happening just beyond your window.

There’s a crack in the world across the sky, the “sun” is the totally unnatural light spilling from that crack straight into your eyes, and someone’s left a neatly pressed and folded uniform at the foot of the bed that isn’t yours. Somewhere in the room, there’s a strange clatter like beads, the click of claws on the floor.

Something’s in here with you.

Also, you are naked.

ONE ♟ Settling In

Welcome to Blanc! You wake up on one of the beds inside the Hall of Glory. You might still be feeling a little light-headed, but sudden dimensional travel will do that to a body. You could have sworn visions of a fantastic world flashed before your eyes not long ago: monsters, magic, and a mission to save the world. You can't quite recall much beyond the basics, but could this be it?

Save your questions for later! The room nannies are quick to urge Heroes into their uniforms (with their beaks if necessary) and to point them to the pick-up locations for their Blanc-issued Weapons and Carriers. Hopefully, nobody but the pigeon’s watching you change. On the other hand, maybe you're the type to turn every roommate into a new friend before you even step foot outside the room.

As you make your way down the halls, you might notice strangely familiar faces around you. But don’t linger too long to chat—the people in charge of the armory and the menagerie have gone through many Heroes before you, and still have many more to go after you. NPCs need meal breaks, too! If you don’t make a decision in time, the random Weapons and/or Carriers they pick for you can be just a little odd.

And if you’re hungry? No matter how rich you were in your homeworld, you’re penniless now until you earn some colle. Thankfully, the Hall of Glory provides free meals to Heroes and those associated with them! Sunday’s breakfast and lunch are bananalicious and seafood pasta. A friendly visiting scholar may have a word of advice for you: “Beware the dining hall on Mondays.”

But you’ll barely have time for lunch before guards come and round you up. “For the parade,” is the only reason they’ll give you.

TWO ♟ Welcome Celebrations

Trumpets sound, cymbals clang and the crowd roars as the parade gets underway! What’s all the fuss about? Well, you Heroes were sent by the gods to save Blanc, right? Of course they’d celebrate! Smiling and waving at the citizens of Caissa from your uniquely crafted float might be a chore, but hey, they love you. Are you really going to let them down, or lose the spotlight to the fellow Heroes sharing your float?

The reception after the Prime Minister’s speech is like some kind of idol session, with Caissa citizens coming up to shake hands and welcome the Heroes warmly. Some are even asking for autographs!

There’s a lot of things to do in festive and lively Caissa, even late into the night under a light fall of snow. Sparrow Town is all lit up, ready for another festival next week.

While some shops are closed for the holiday, others have buffet tables or are giving out free samples to the Heroes. The food stalls here are way better than the bizarre cafeteria menu at the Hall of Glory! Why waste the opportunity to finally gorge on real food? The shop owners have done their best to impress, showing off their local cuisines proudly along the city streets: from the local hamburger joint to the exotic L'adderan curries, you'll find a little of everything to whet your palate. Your growling stomach will likely thank you for the food. … Oh, wait. That wasn’t you? You think the fish sandwich on your plate just sang? Nonsense. That just means you had a marvelous piece of fish bread. Please remember to visit them again sometime when you have the colle, okay?

Various stalls with games and activities have also been set up. Maybe you can impress the crowd by nailing an apple with an arrow or by sacrificing your friend(s) at the water tanks! An unusual Go-style stall offers something like fish scooping, but be careful: touching the fish with your bare hands will leave you feeling funny… Wow, you’ve never seen that color before! But whatever it takes to impress the children, right?

Said children might try and get you to dance in the falling snow. Better not mess up, though, because everyone in Caissa seems to be watching.

THREE ♟ The Day After

Hopefully, you didn’t sleep too late after yesterday’s celebrations! Or maybe you slept badly, since it felt like something was watching you…

The free breakfast that awaits you at the dining hall is… something special. Please enjoy it to your heart’s content! Remember: no food fights, and leave no leftovers! Nothing will save you from the chef’s disapproving mustache swirl if you do!

If you want to make money (to get away from Monday’s Horrors), there are now jobs up for taking at the Hall of Glory and the Poisoned Pawn! If there’s nothing to your taste, check back again every so often. Something new might pop up!

Heroes not in the mood to be errand-runners (it’s understandable, you’re Heroes after all!) can hang out in the parlor, read in the library, or express yourself in one of the Hall’s many studios or other rooms.

If lying back and taking it slow isn’t your thing, you could train or spar! Being summoned to a new world takes a toll on the body, and some Heroes have lost abilities familiar to them. Besides, it’ll take a while to get used to your weapons. Some of them might even be disobedient, backfiring at worst and unresponsive at best. Try not to hit your fellow Heroes (including yourself), or you’ll either have to find enough Heroes to cast weak healing spells or carry the wounded to the infirmary. While the snow has been cleared overnight, it’s still very cold!

INFO ♟ Welcome!

Welcome to Crosscheck's grand opening log! For any further questions, please see the FAQ or reach us at the Contact Us page. Have fun!

Threaded | Flat

[Toplevels for individual room interaction at the Hall of Glory may go here.]

BUT THE SUNS-- [ welcome celebrations ]

[ He felt little to no embarrassment standing in front of two strangers naked. Now, he feels his face flushing. He is not used to so much positive attention put on him and can honestly say that he does not know what it is that he should do.

His hand has found a new home resting on the back of his neck. Still, he feels lucky. His head is tilted back for most of the afternoon as he stares up at the suns. It is unlike anything that he has ever seen before. Yet every time he stares for too long, he finds dancing dots start to appear in his vision. Rubbing his eye, he continues to try to understand what he is staring at.

This involves ignoring most of the people who are coming up for autographs or asking him to dance. He walks about in circles, occasionally running right into other Heroes. Eventually, he has to sit down as he holds the heel of his hand against his eye. ]

This hurts … a surprising amount … why? How is there some heat from the suns? There is snowfall … I would not think that an artificial sun would have any means to produce heat even at this distance. Is it going to start this city on fire? [ Thunderland continues on and on with his worrying as he holds his head. ]

WILDCARD

[ Doesn't work? Throw anything at me! ]

settling in.

[Also, you're naked.

So another typical Saturday night, basically. That's acceptable. Waking up in a stranger's bed, also far from abnormal. Waking up in a stranger's bed at this gods forsaken hour, not so much, and Gilgamesh groans in about twenty different kinds of discomfort at the mere notion of rising with the sun.

Thankfully, the strange visions clear themselves away soon enough, and he wanders down to the dining hall for a bowl of bananalicious. He doesn't question the natural hunger he hasn't felt in centuries, in millennia; he even does everyone else the courtesy of not blowing up everything in the near vicinity, partially because it's too damn early for this and partially because he now lacks the power to do so. Lucky mongrels.

Gilgamesh polishes off his portion and, deciding it was satisfactory and he wouldn't mind having a bit more, leans over to the person beside him. And stares. Intensely.]

Give it to me.

[Well, that's one way to ask for seconds... or for something else. He seems pretty serious, though.]

welcome celebrations.

[Much about this situation was distasteful, but Gilgamesh found himself right back at home—figuratively speaking—with the group set up on floats before the waving crowd. And thus Gilgamesh takes the opportunity to shove his way to the front and address his audience in booming tones, boasting of his title, his fame, his glory... really, it's best to tune him out here, there's not much of importance being said.

Once the parade has concluded, Gilgamesh, still feeling a bit queasy after breakfast, skips over the food and indulges his inner child with some of the games. Eventually he grows tired of dominating every stall and snaps his fingers at someone nearby to join him, even going as far as to whistle:]

You there, mongrel! Serve as my competition for this sport.

[Gilgamesh does not appear to be giving you a chance to argue. Maybe you'd better just appease him for now and hope for the best.]

the day after.

[It took less than an hour or so after claiming his weapon for Gilgamesh to determine it was absolutely useless. It was pretty enough to look at but couldn't really cut worth a damn, that'd he noticed. Maybe he just hadn't been picking the right targets. Maybe it required a very specific sort of swing. Whatever the case, any weaknesses were clearly no fault of his own. Perhaps a change of scenery was in store...

And thus Gilgamesh took to the courtyard, where active training exercises were being held. Not that he needed to pay attention to it; rather, he grabs whoever he can, whoever seems remotely promising in combat, and challenges them to fights. One after another after another, even as it drains him of mana. He's convinced he can work through this with muscle alone. Which, honestly, may just be the most muscle he's exerted in a while. The King of Heroes was more often than not King of the Couch.

But those lazy days may have been come to an end. Gilgamesh finally makes it to you, and waves his scarlet sword in your face.]

Did you not hear me before? Prepare yourself! You now face the King of Heroes!

[Gilgamesh strikes a pose! It's time for battle, whether you agreed to it or not!]

job wildcard.

[Pick a job, any job, for our characters to perform! I'll roll with whatever you choose.]

a. step back;

No--no, you cannot have my autograph, I'm not touching your pen--

[ Adrasteius nimbly sidesteps anyone trying to accost him. He demurs shaking hands, turns away autograph pens, and in general does not seem to be in the spirit of things. Truth be told, he feels a little ill at all this attention, and particularly by all these strangers trying to touch him. He's exhausted, besides: he can feel the magic in this world, as rich and present as the unbound streams of mana on Draenor. It's almost overwhelming to his senses, and frustrating, too, because he can't simply reach out and absorb it.

His long ears twitch and curl like a cat's, and in fact that's the impression he gives off to anyone approaching--a cat, agitated and nervous. When he stumbles away from the parade proper, he runs up against the food stalls and fares no better. ]

No. Nope.

[ He makes a 'pass' gesture at curries, burgers, tacos, or any other kind of meat-laden dish. At one point, he argues with a particular vendor. ]

I'm a vegetarian, okay? I don't eat anything that can look me in the eye. Yes, I know you're saying it's vegetable curry, but is that true? No animals harmed? Not even for the sauce.

b. no light, no light;

[ The design of the staff looks familiar, and its weight is of a piece with similar staves he carried in Azeroth. It's a comfort--at least until he tries to swing it. Then the thing slips from his hands as though his palms were suddenly greased with butter. He swears colorfully as he picks it up again.

He's in the courtyard, trying to wrangle this staff like someone else might wrangle a snake. He takes a deep, steadying breath. There's magic in this weapon. First step, draw it out. ]

Light help me.

[ It's both a sigh of exasperation and a real prayer. He hasn't been able to call on his powers since arrival, and it's not improving his mood any. Trying to clear his mind, trying to concentrate, he focuses on the staff. After a moment, it glows brilliant white. If anyone nearby has gotten scraped up in the course of working with their own weapon, their wounds are now healed. ]

Ow!

[ Adra's pain, however, has just begun. He sinks to his knees, aching. ]

No good deed will go unpunished with you, huh.

c. job - setting up shop;

[ What little muscle Adra has is not up to the task of lifting more than a few pounds. They had magic for all of that nonsense back in Silvermoon. Everything you wanted just floated amicably where it ought to go. But he's not useless here. After demonstrating his knowledge of a range of basic ingredients, if not the resulting dish itself, Adra's ready to help cook. If he catches anyone else hanging around, he'll accost them to give his work a try. ]

Here, take a bite.

[ He offers them a plate of white fish on a bed of tender, seasoned asparagus. Sesame paste, sweet and not too thick, coats the fish and the vegetables alike. If the flavors are to the diner's liking, it's delicious.

He stares down the person in question, one hand on his hip. Maybe a little bit anxious. ]

Well?

Edited 2016-01-31 13:51 (UTC)

i; settling in

[ It takes Astrid zero time to pick a weapon - the item she goes for first - and her axe can clearly be seen strapped to her back. The "Carrier" part, though...that's much harder. The menagerie sets her on edge, and all she wants is Berk and Stormfly. Dragon's Edge. She's never been one to break down and stop moving, despite this.

...Though she does finally stop cold in front of one particular Carrier. ]

What are you...? [ A "Rockewyrm"? Not a type of dragon she knows, though Astrid is well aware there are many she hasn't even dreamed of.

A short while later she can be found exploring the halls with the little dragon curled around her left shoulder and part of her neck. Astrid's left hand is reaching up to pet the creature, almost absent-minded, as she scans her surroundings. While she might be able to be caught for a short chat there, she's likely easier to catch at lunch. Astrid does eat some spaghetti, but focuses most of her attention on her Carrier, having borrowed a bowl to set up some water for her. ]

Starsharp. I think that'll do. How do you feel about that one, girl? [ Wonder of wonders, the viking actually smiles at her pet. She's 100% letting Starsharp sit on the table to lap at her water, and if you complain she just might punch you. ]

ii; welcome celebrations

[ Anyone stuck with Astrid on their float should look out; she's clearly pretty sullen about the whole thing (she hasn't done anything to earn this and this isn't productive) though she does wave a little at children more often than she bothers with adults.

She loosens up when they're let loose to do their own thing, though, and seems particularly happy with the game booths - so long as they involve weaponry and/or violence. Her aim with a bow and arrow is actually dead on - but so is her aim for any of the throwing games. When she's victorious, Astrid will pump a fist, beaming, which displaces Starsharp just enough for the rockewyrm to voice an irritated, sleepy growl. ]

Sorry, Star. But did you see that? No Thawfest curse, finally. Of course, none of the others are here to actually see it...

iii-a; job board

[ After...skipping breakfast entirely after poking her head in to see what was up, Astrid can be found at the job board. She eventually chooses to sign up for snow man building; a few days later, she signs up to help open up shops. We can plot something for either place, or you can simply find her arming her snowmen heavily with makeshift weapons made from whatever she could find lying around (not actual weaponry, though) at the first, or carrying things around and/or attempting to cook but failing miserably at the second.

At the job board itself, she mostly looks baffled. ]

Wait, why do they need help with this? I mean, the busywork, sure, but this seems kind of frivolous...

iii-b; machine workshop, cassia

[ After learning her apparent new residence better, Astrid chooses to explore the city, Starsharp in tow on her shoulder as is becoming the norm. When she passes the machine stop, though, she stops and backtracks a bit, eyes widening. The clinks and whirring of metal and engines is...odd. It reminds her a little of a Forge, but more. Bigger and busier and...strange. ]

Thor almighty... [ She can't help herself; she's curious, and she goes inside, although Astrid doesn't appear to know the use of many of the contraptions inside. ] I wonder what Hiccup would make of all this. He'd probably think it was Valhalla or something.

[ The remark is more to her Carrier than anyone else, as Astrid eyeballs what appears to be a very steampunk toaster with severe trepidation. ]

Is this a weapon, or what?

iii-c; courtyard

[ At some point Astrid can be found kneeling in the courtyard, apparently sorting through some pebbles and rocks collected from the group. She keeps picking a few up to hold up to the dragon on her left shoulder, but the dragon keeps shaking her head...

Astrid purses her lips. ]

C'mon, Star, this one is really pretty! Look, it's red. You like red, don't you, girl?

[ ugh picky vain carrier dragon just eat something already - but even though there's annoyance in her tone, there's already fondness there as well, and it isn't like Astrid is being violent in Starsharp's direction. ]

Okay, okay, I guess we can do better...you know, this is half as annoying as all these errands people have us running, and you aren't even paying me for it.

[ It sounds like she's mostly teasing, though, and the dragon doesn't seem to take any offense. Care to help her look for some pretty rocks, or perhaps just chat? ]

wildcard;

[ Or feel free to wildcard! In her spare time, Astrid can be found training with her axe around and about, exploring wherever, or eating at meals...I'll roll with any job prompts or anything else, really, and feel free to pm me if you like! ]

[ Already he's unimpressed with his situation. "You are jesting," he's said incredulously several times already. "You think me a fool to think that having a small animal around will not hamper me," he says at least twice.

His complaints are probably why he gets a dog-sized dragon dumped into his arms—which he promptly drops onto the floor in shock. The dog...dragon... doesn't seem to mind, though, and is quick to drool all over his new lance. Eight feet in length, it's a sour replica of what he's used to (or he's just complaining again) but it'll do.

The dragon seems to like it, and as they walk it takes every opportunity to bit at the end of the lance. ]

Enough of that!

[ He's tempted to point the lance at the creature, but... he's showing restraint. ]

[ Parade? He thinks not. Estinien finds the darkest corner possible on the float and crosses his arms while he hides. Celebrations? He can't be found easily, appearing only when he needs to, and never in areas too crowded. Honestly, his aversion is probably making him stand out more.

However, after failing to get him to dance, a child has managed to get him to one of the stalls. You have to give the kid credit for approaching the giant elf man who was clearly hiding away... so he agreed. He'll win them one prize and they'll leave him alone to do... whatever it is that he should be doing.

Something that's not a waste of time, which is what he thinks this entire day has been. ]

My skills are honed with a lance, not a bow. [ The child doesn't seem to care and Estinien is sighing before picking up one of the bows. He knows how to use one, even if it's not his weapon of choice, and quickly examines it before taking aim. ] If I don't strike true, you are not to tell a soul.

[ He's joking?? Mostly. ]

[ Training, now this is something he can understand. Finally he doesn't feel like he's wasting precious time; his body is more sluggish than normal and he hates it. The lance isn't his own, but it weighs enough and feels usable.

The cold doesn't affect him; Ishgard has been in a state of winter (or near winter on a good day) for too long now. He can be found twirling the lance easily in his hands with clear skill. It's not perfect, and something is blocking most of his skills, but it's still a weapon he's familiar with. If you want to challenge him, he'll be up for it.

Or he'll just practice his motions and stances in silence, away from everyone else. Like usual. ]

[ the wildcard! i'm open for anything, so. go for it. pm me if you're not sure! ]

[1. stay gold, ponyboy]

[Kaisar is not one to turn down the generosity of strangers. But the 'Monday Menu' is too much for him to take and, really, can anyone blame him? He does try to force it down but by lunchtime there is no patience left. Thankfully, his carrier is just the right animal to deal with something like hay soup with the right level of indiscretion.

You know, if his new miniature pony was actually dumb enough to stick around for that.

Instead she's running away at breakneck speeds after a single taste of the unfortunate concoction. Kaisar running after her is also something that could be classified as unfortunate. Fellow heroes might want to watch out for both carrier and master as they sprint on by or there might be a painful head-on meeting. Luckily, it's easy enough to hear him coming before he's in view.]

VICTORIA WEISS LIDFARD!! Stop this instant!!

[Mmmyup.]

[2. float like a butterfly]

[Something Kaisar is okay with is pageantry. Honestly, he's shining under the cheers and attention given by the civilians as their float resolutely trudges along. There is a real twinkle to his smile as he waves back to the crowds. The only demerit in his mind is that he has to stand on this thing instead of riding along on horseback. Compromises have to be made though and it's not like he has a horse to ride in the first place.

However, not everything is as perfect on the float as Kaisar's existence would lead one to believe. There are other heroes here after all. Maybe your character is nervous or just the type to dislike this kind of attention but Kaisar keys on to the lack of enthusiasm relatively quickly. Uncertainty is no good! They are here to support the masses and ease their hearts!! This has to be fixed post haste.

Casually, he sidles over to stand by the afflicted hero, beaming all the while. This is happening. You can't stop him.]

Worry not. The people are in good cheer and you should be too.

[Turn that frown upside down, trooper. :)]

[3. knight duty]

[Finally the crazy welcome wagon has calmed down and everyone is allowed a moment to breath and get used their new role as hero. It's finally sinking in that Kaisar is no longer a knight properly, which hits hard considering everything he's gone through, but it's not as if he has a target for this frustration. They were summoned by gods if the locals were to be believed and he didn't even have a name! However, there is hope at the end of the tunnel. He can regain that title if he works hard. So that's exactly what he will do.

Kaisar finds his way to the roof to acquaint himself with his gifted sword. It's a familiar weapon and the drills he puts himself through show his experience. Working up a sweat and adjusting to his new weapon is obviously the best way to work out any frustration. A sparring partner would make it all the better. In the lieu of one a training dummy is getting utterly destroyed.

Compliment or criticizes his hasty movements, either is fine. Despite the irritation he is always welcoming to conversation.]

[4. wild card]

[Do you have an idea? Do you want to fulfill a request together? Come at me at

chocoletto or pm me and we can hash something out.]

001. Settling In

[ So this is new.

There are a lot of different theories on exactly what the afterlife is supposed to entail, but he's fairly certain this isn't any of it. Some part of him is a little dubious on the nature of it all, having come to terms and accepted his fate based on the decisions he made. It's a little much to try to reconsider at first.

So he just allows himself to be shuffled around, a curious gaze cast to the others following suit, as well as the mechanical...pigeons? That seem to be intent on herding them like sheep. Yes, despite how strange and otherwordly this is, Minato is pretty calm about it all.

What finally gets a good reaction out of him? Did someone say free meals?

Well, there's no sense on mulling it all over on an empty stomach. It's sure a lot of banana, but he doesn't have anything against bananas. They're sweet and delicious. So he makes sure to take one of each off the menu, takes a seat at one of the communal tables, and pretty much inhales it.

He may also be watching the person across from him intently for a moment. Is that an untouched yogurt or half-eaten smoothie? ]

Are you going to finish that?

002. WELCOME CELEBRATIONS

[ Hm.

There's definitely a lot going on and he's keen to go with the flow. Actually, for all the commotion, he looks neither impressed nor unimpressed with it all. Hands shoved into his pockets, he doesn't actually wave on the float, though he does listen to the speech. Guess they were serious about this whole "hero" thing.

Autographs? Nah. He just slips away from the throngs and into the town proper.

Wandering down the streets, it shouldn't be surprising that he can be seen helping himself to every free sample available. It's almost meticulous how he goes from shop to shop. And he might even go back for round two if that can be a thing. Can it be a thing?

Later he can be seen standing in front of the dunk tank, watching with a faint hint of amusement. He casts a sidelong glance to the closest hero to him and quirks a brow. ]

003. The Day After

[ Sleeping too late, actually, is exactly the plan. And he also happens to be used to someone staring at him while he's in bed. If he can get away with it, he'll probably sleep through most of the day, because that was a lot of activity for one day and he already arrived tired.

Unfortunately, he does make it up in time for lunch. So if you're in the dining hall, misery loves company. Because he's fairly certain that isn't food. ]

...

[ Hay soup? ]

"Become healthy and strong as a horse"...

[ He's okay with being human, actually. He's never been so conflicted over a free meal before. Is anyone else eating this stuff? ]

004. Do you want to build a snowman?

[ He decides to be productive and procure some sort of job. Thankfully, the bulletin board offers things that seem more like Elizabeth's requests than anything resembling being a productive member of society. That can be good if you're feeling kind of uninspired and listless about the whole situation. He's still not sure what he thinks about it.

He does think he can build a snowman, though.

Minato does, however, seem very determined to try and make his snowman look as much like King Frost as possible. Who wouldn't love that face?

Unfortunately, his original attempts to make the arms out of the snow aren't going so well. He hears a soft "thud" and looks over.

Ah.

Looks like one of them just fell off and hit someone walking by. Whoops? ]

Sorry.

ONE; BUT I AM THE CARRIER

Stop! Come back here!

[Being ushered off to a new world and having all your powers gouged out is technically nothing too new to Tamamo. But still, any reminder of home is welcome, and when she finds a three-legged crow perching on a wooden stand, she knew that she had to choose it as her carrier.

Unfortunately, unlike the mythical messengers of god that Yatagarasu are, this crow is... an actual crow. As in, pecks-at-shiny-things-all-the-time crow. Do you have anything shiny on you? A golden brooch on your issued uniform, perhaps? Or the sparkling gem lining on your new weapon, made to enhance its mana distribution?

Well, yeah. It's going to fly after it. But, before the crow can even peck at whatever shiny artifact it's gunning for, Tamamo intervenes, grabbing it by the legs-- before tripping forward, onto you.]

Ahhh!

[In her defense, being whisked off several dimensions is disorientating. She's disoriented, okay.]

TWO; PARTY HARD OR GO HOME

[Tamamo has to admit, she does miss all these festivities from her past life.]

The food, the cheers, the loud sound of celebrations... this is the perfect time to get married! Or, for a fight to break out. Or assassinate someone important.

[Also, Tamamo is the kind of person who says horrible things with a smile on her face, apparently?! Well, it's not like she's wrong. But.

In any case, the food is great and all, but the games? That's where Tamamo's competitive spirit kicks in. Now, of course, it's polite to have sportsmanship whenever you lose, especially at fun carnival games that are only for enjoyment.

But. But.]

MOVE ASIDE! [WHAT IS THIS LOUD SHRILL VOICE BOOMING FROM OVER YOUR HEAD. Tamamo makes it to one of those damn Ring Toss booths, declaring her presence.] What's the prize? That cute winter dress hanging over there, you say?! Then, say no more! With one toss, I, Ta-- I mean, Caster, will attain a more fitting outfit!

[She picks up a handful of rings, all in one hand, and tosses them out without hesitation. Everyone, enthralled by her confidence, watch as each ring flies close, so close-- wait, it bumped off the top-- and that one too--

--none of them hit.

gg wp try not to laugh]

THREE; O TURMOIL OF MY SOUL

[Tamamo's slightly used to being nerfed, partly because she's nerfed herself on purpose before. So, getting used to a new weapon should be no big deal. Right?

Er, except the way magic works here is completely different. Still, she must try! The wooden fan she's picked as a magical weapon is a modest-looking accessory, perfect for a lady like herself, and she will use it with all the grace the wife of Hakuno should have.]

Ohhh, it really does summon a gust of wind if you fan it! [If you're training nearby in the courtyard, you might feel a gentle breeze. How refreshing!] ...Eh, wait, how do I get it to stop? Ah... wait, stop, stop, please--!

[Suddenly, the gust turns into a blast, then whips up into a storm, ripping the fan from Tamamo's hands as the wind picks up even more while the fan is tossed around by its own magic, forming a vicious cycle. Tamamo, unable to control her mana circuits, simply keeps feeding the weapon her power from her frenzy to stop it.

She's lifted off the ground now. THIS IS IT. THIS IS HOW SHE DIES.]

ANYTHING ELSE

[punch me. i'll punch u back]

One ♟ Dramatic Fox on Fox Action

[ Kogitsunemaru has strapped his Blanc-issued sword to his belt. He still isn't used to wearing modern clothing but the principle is still the same. Now it's time for him to pick a Carrier. There are so many choices and all of them are good! But none of them call out to him.

Until his eyes meet with that of a small painted fox from across the room. And the smile on his face evolves from polite interest to pure glee. The connection between fox-like human sword and small fox Carrier is palpable. ]

Konnosuke! [ With his arms open wide, Kogitsunemaru calls out to the Carrier. ] Leap into my arms, my old friend!

[ Gladly accepting its new name and Master, Konnosuke(? for he is not the Konnosuke Kogitsunemaru knows from home) does as its told and may use the heads of those standing between it and Kogitsunemaru as stepping stones to his broad, muscular chest. ]

Two-A ♟ Handshake Events

[ Kogitsunemaru is no stranger to being presented to an adoring public. He shakes hands. He signs autographs. He reassures everyone that he and his fellow heroes will do their best to bring peace and prosperity to the land, etc.

But his experiences had to do with his life as a sword, not as a tall human with glorious silver hair. Most people have resisted touching his most prided feature but-- ]

Ow!

[ He looks down to see a little girl, no older than seven, dressed in her Sunday's best and sporting a toothy grin. ]

Hello, young lady. [ He kneels in front of her. ] Could you kindly stop pulling on my fur?

[ "No!" the child declares, tugging his hair so hard it brings tears to Kogitsunemaru's eyes. ]

Please?

[ Another no. Another tug. Kogitsunemaru's dignity is slowly breaking. Please send help. ]

Two-B ♟ Dances with Foxes

[ Not one to turn down invitations to dances and merriment, Kogitsunemaru lets a child lead him by the hand to the snowy fields, but not before stretching out his hand to you. ]

Come! Dance with this small fox and these small children!

Three ♟ Will Work for Food

[ At the request of Anne and the inhabitants of Airy, Kogitsunemaru signed up to set up some food stalls at Caissa's town plaza. Right now he is standing in front of a pile of wooden planks and some carpentry tools. Does he know how to use them? Not at all. Inari is the goddess of agriculture, not woodwork. ]

A tofu stall...

[ Still, he is filled with determination as he picks up the hammer. This is a noble task. He will not slack off. He will get all the fried tofu he wants when the day is done. ]

Then, I shall have to do my best.

Wildcard

[ Give prompt, receive reply. I'm at

peakedcap if you need me! ]

Edited 2016-01-31 06:55 (UTC)

( settling in: it's probably not the worst thing he's eaten )
[ Sure, Yoichi's eaten worse (some of his friends' cooking comes to mind), but that hadn't been by choice. He doesn't want to hurt the feelings of the chefs who've obviously spent so much time and hard work making this breakfast (there's just so much banana, but Yoichi's too afraid it might hurt the cook's feelings if they somehow figured out he was thinking that), but he's also gotten about a quarter through his banana-cauliflower mash and isn't sure how much more he can take.

He's so busy staring down at the daunting remainder of the mash on his plate (and, okay, hunched over worrying about how he can get home, what's happened to Gekkouin, if his friends are okay...) that he doesn't notice when someone else approaches his table. The clack of their tray against the wood startles him into flailing just a little as he jumps, straightening up. Oops. ]

Ah—! I'm so sorry, are you okay? [ He probably missed you. Or maybe he didn't. Or maybe you were really unlucky and he managed to send that spoonful of banana mash flying toward your face. Or the whole plate. ]

( welcome celebrations: it's all fun and games )
[ Yoichi's looking a little wan after the fervor of the welcome parade and the hideously embarrassing autograph session, but he's not going to let that stop him from going out and exploring. The festival is dazzling. It feels unreal; he hasn't seen so many people gathered together in years, not since the end of the world. He wanders through the stalls in a daze, accepting food when the vendors hand it to him, letting himself be drawn into playing the games.

He must seem like an easy target, because before he knows it, he's been roped into trying a few throws at the water tanks. Yoichi doesn't look happy about it, exactly. He keeps darting looks at the person perched over the water, obviously feeling guilty about any possible soaking they might receive. But still, he's trying to be a good sport about this. Mostly by trying to convince the pushy game runner that he's not the man for this job. ]

Um. I-I really don't think this is such a good idea? Maybe they'd like to play instead...

[ Yes, you, the person standing next to him. Take his shot for him, or tell him to man up and throw the damn ball already! ]

( the day after: it's a ridiculous snowman )
[ Those children at the orphanage had all been very sweet little urchins, well behaved and smiling and absolutely merciless. One look into their sad puppy dog eyes and Yoichi had found himself agreeing to build them a ten foot tall snowman before he could even think about what he was promising.

Considering he's all of five foot five himself and his arms can best be described as "noodly," this presents some problems.

Still, he gamely sets to work, rolling a ball of snow nearly as big as he is to get started. It's so big in fact, that he has to use the leverage of his entire body to keep it rolling — he can't exactly see where he's going, sorry if he runs into you! And once it's too big for him to move just by rolling, he's... still trying? This shrimpy kid actually seems surprised that he can't budge a snowball bigger than he is, what's wrong with him? Maybe you should find out. Or give the kid some help. Looks like he's taking a running start at it, he's either going to smash face first into the snowball or bounce right off of it, he could probably use someone to catch him.

Or: Those kids sure had some really specific ideas about what their snowman should be decorated with, and Yoichi's too much of a sucker to dash their fragile hopes and dreams.

Which is why he's going around the capitol, searching high and low for an esoteric list of random household (and not so household) items.

He stops a likely-looking passerby (or maybe not so likely-looking, it's getting dark and he's getting a little desperate), asking, nervously, obviously squaring his shoulders to give himself the determination to approach this stranger: ]

U-um, excuse me, I'm looking for a— [ He pauses, apologetic, not quite able to believe he's asking for this, either. ] —a, um, feather boa? Or a really, really big carrot?

( wildcard )
[ Choose your own adventure! Another scenario you want to play? Go for it! I'm available at

kaijou for any plotting. ]

1) dining hall

[The uniform doesn't suit Mello at all. In protest, the blond has left the front of the jacket unbuttoned and the red shirt underneath untucked. If he can be allowed to alter it later, he will.

He's alone at a table, staring at the food given him as if the very idea of eating it is making him physically ill. Standing up on the table, helping itself to his bowl of banana and cauliflower mash, is his carrier - a small dog that appears mostly hairless aside from a mane of light hair around its face and tufts on its paws and tail.

On the other side of him sits a decorated heart shaped box. One might be able to catch the light scent of chocolate if they get close enough, and if he gets company he might just ask them if they'd like to give one a try...]

2) the stalls

[There's plenty of food being offered, but Mello doesn't seem interested in practically any of it. He seems to be keeping his eyes open for something in particular - might seem slightly desperate, even, if you're good at reading people.

It's cruel, giving someone a weapon made of chocolate that they can't eat.]

3) the parlor, after "breakfast"

[He's never been a fan of puzzles - mostly because Near seemed to get some enjoyment out of them. Right now, however, Mello could use something that didn't involve reading to keep his mind off things. 'Things' in this case not being his current situation as a Hero in a strange land, but rather the matter of his stomach's intense protests.

As much as he'd like to avoid this food altogether given his current lack of chocolate, he has to maintain his health somehow. Eating this meal? Had not been the best choice for that, in hindsight. He's pale and curled in on himself, placing piece after piece on the board as he lets that vile mess make its way through his system.]

2-A: Carriers are basically children.

[Without any siblings, Vivienne's experience with children is paltry at best, and... rather unpleasant at its worst. And having a "Carrier" to care for seems more tedious and frankly a chore than helpful in any capacity. She's nearly stepped on her's more than once, though each time it managed to glide out of the way at the last second with a quiet, almost admonishing gurgle.

Now, it seems to have procured a streamer of some sort (likely from the celebrations earlier in the afternoon) to serve as a makeshift scarf in the cold. Ex...cept it's managed to wrap the thing all the way around its head. So mostly blinded, it's sort of just wandering aimlessly...

...and bonking right into your character's ankle. Vivienne, meanwhile, is frowning a short distance away. This is a little embarrassing for her. She can't pinpoint why that is, but it is.]

2-B: So you scoop the fish.... then what??

[Festivities of any sort are a rarity where she comes from, typically reserved for another successful Hunt, but even then, they're short lived and nowhere near this... lively. It's a strange feeling, to be thrust into this new world. One that seems to not have a single care in the world. At least, that would be the implication, if everybody's high spirits were any indication, and the very fact that the atmosphere is so cheerful leaves Vivienne at a loss. People are having fun, and that's... almost foreign to her.

Next thing she knows, she's being ushered over to a strange little stall by an overly enthusiastic old man (she must really have seemed out of it) with a scoop suddenly thrust into her hand, and simply - albeit cheerfully - told to "catch one". So now she's just sort of... crouching by the little pool, scoop in hand, watching the fish swim lazily. She's not really into this, mostly because she doesn't.. know what she's supposed to be doing, but just getting up and walking away would be an insult to the old man, wouldn't it?

S-someone help. How do you catch one?? What happens to it after that? She isn't comfortable asking for help, but the longer she just sits there, the more it becomes apparent that... yeah, she kinda needs it.]

Wildcard

[Feel free to catch her at any point during the three prompts. Be awkward with her during the parade, watch her struggle to mingle because EVERYONE HERE IS FILTHY OUTSIDERS!!!!, watch her sample the local cuisine. Or PM/PP me and we can work something out!]

A. Settling in-- let me check out your adorable new pet
[ The new gun Shinya's been issued feels more than a little foreign in his hands. But, at the very least, his area of expertise didn't go ignored, and he supposes he should be thankful for that little bit of mercy. It carries a good weight, but he easily slings it over his shoulder as he continues the streamlined process of getting set up. Hero. They certainly played the part back home, didn't they?

But it's the carrier that has begun following him down the hallway that makes him want to laugh and cry at the same time. The tiger, though certainly not as big or demonic as Byakkomaru, bears such an uncanny resemblance that he's convinced this was Blanc's idea of a joke.

Well, he'd go along with it.

He's preoccupied with trying to find his way-- so preoccupied that he nearly runs right into your carrier, and perhaps even you. He puts up his hands in apology and smiles. ]

Ah, I'm so sorry.

[ He leans down to get a better look at the creature. ]

Is this your carrier? [ Interesting... there were so many different varieties. Did they all have the same uncanny ties to their owners? ] How cute.

Welcome Celebrations-- water tank sacrifice
[ Somehow or another, this is the unfortunate position they've found themselves in. A stranger (though, were they really strangers?) hovers precariously over a large tank of water. How did they end up there in the first place? Did they volunteer?

And Shinya's the lucky hero that's been given a projectile. Launch it right into the target, he's told by both the vendor and the small crowd gathering around them, and the other hero goes splash!

Shinya isn't so sure the other hero ended up above the tank of their own volition, so he shoots them an apologetic, uncertain look. ]

The people want a show of their beloved hero. What do you say?

[ He really is very sorry. ]

Jobs-- This is gonna be an awesome snowman
[ This isn't exactly the sort of thing Shinya's used to doing, but there are no complaints coming from his direction. It's also turning out to be more labor intensive than he initially thought, but it's not too bad. Money was money, and he had the feeling he would need currency in this strange new place.

Eventually, the snowball he's building and pushing around gets too massive for one person. Despite this, the children continue to insist that "it needs to be at least three times bigger!" and "some hero you are, i thought you guys were supposed to be strong!" Despite this, Shinya merely chuckles and rolls his shoulders a bit. ]

Now, now. Don't get so impatient. We'll make this an impressive snowman. How many feet tall did you want it, again? Twenty? Thirty?

[ He spots a fellow hero, and wastes no time in shooting them a pleading look and a small, warm smile. ]

Do you mind lending me a hand with this? [ please........... ] Though I have to warn you-- we're faced with some tough clients.

Wildcard
[ I'm down for any other job or scenario in the city! Hit me up with anything. I'm also at

baklava if you'd like to plot a specific scenario. ]

Celebrations, settling in

[ This amount of people, in one place, is something Alice hasn't been accustomed to in a very long time. At least in the streets of London, Alice had the freedom to move. She's befriended her carrier rather quickly, the thing large enough to be the size of a normal parrot sitting on her shoulder, fluttering it's wings impatiently. Strangers approaching her made her uncomfortable; no one, in her opinion, was this friendly unless they wanted something. Gently, she refuses them. ]

I'm sorry, but-

[ At least the sight of cardiavion keeps them at bay. Alice shuffles awkwardly off, letting the creature bury itself in her head. But there is one plus to this confusion -- the food and drinks, it's the most she's seen in years. Because she's so small, someone insists that Alice take more of a plate than she needs, telling her she needs more meat on hr bones. ]

That's quite alright, I'm happy with this portion, really. I'm perfectly aware I need more meat on my bones, thank you.

[ Alice and her frightening carrier move along. She's small, so she almost immediately gets swallowed up, huffing as she does. Every so often, she'll bump into someone and mutter an awkward- ]

Sorry- don't hiss, that's not polite.

[ Her carrier isn't too keen on company, more so than her. ]

The day after

[ As time goes on, distance away from others, still, with her carrier perched on her shoulder. From the parlor, Alice stops to gaze at the sight of the pristine white architecture and layout. Turning to her carrier, she adds- ]

This is how the Pale Realm was back in the day. Curiouser and curiouser.

[ True, her morning could be a bit more productive, but Alice is content wandering, just a bit longer, exploring the castle before she departs for the day. ]

Job - setting up shop

[ Alice has really never had a job outside of Houndsdtich and is extra tentative to helping others gather boxes. Unfortunately, she tells her companion to not come in the shop, worried that the creature will frighten others. As soon as Alice straightens up after adding things to the shelves, she slowly watches monkeys pass by. ]

How strange. Why on earth would creatures like that be working here? Wouldn't they prefer being outside of the city?

»A. Stop calling me damn it glory [parade] | OTA

[The parade is nice. It's obvious this is all good things for the citizens of Blanc. They've been provided with heroes, saviors. And the people of the hour themselves?

Zelos never did anything for glory. He never wanted glory. What he does want has been taken from him and this pretty show can't be anything more than a slap in the face. He'd been shoved aboard the float at the start, but he's had enough. Tapping the nearest "hero" on the shoulder he speaks up.]

Move it. This is my stop ♪.

[He's getting off. All these people can go fuck themselves.]

»B. Don't work for what you don't have to [free samples] | OTA

[Zelos has a couple goals here. Find out what's going on. Find out how to reverse it. Deliver the beatdown of a lifetime to whoever's behind this. But before he can really dig he needs a few things. Clothes that aren't apparently the requisite hero uniform if he wants to be able to go anywhere without being recognized. Weapons. He has his "legendary relic", but damned if he knows how to use it. Aside from that it's just a knife he swiped from the dining hall. Talk about feeling naked. And most importantly of all?

He needs a goddamn drink. A lot of drinks in fact. Too bad he doesn't have any of this world's cash. But they're all sure quick to give out free samples to an "hero" around here. It doesn't take him too much time and industrious activity to end up sitting on a street corner with, oh, about 20 samples of various alcohols.

But. He sees you looking at him over there passer by.]

[FOR WOMEN:]
Hmm... What's your feeling on indirect kisses ♥?

[He takes a sip from a cup before holding it out. Care to join him?]

[FOR MEN:]
...You know, no one likes a jealous guy. It's embarrassing.

[Sigh. Where's your dignity stranger???]

[FOR KIDS (specifically)/ANYONE (neutral option)]:
If you stare that much your face is going to freeze that way.

»C. Jumping the gun [hall of glory: library & roof] | OTA

[LIBRARY]
[If you want to solve a problem you need to find out everything you can about it. And right now? The people of this city are practically useless, drunk on their own happiness and relief. And why shouldn't they be? They've been blessed with heroes. Or so they believe.

It's sickening. Because it's frightening. He's got to get out of here. Right now if he went around asking questions there's no way it wouldn't cause a ruckus considering he's easily recognizable as an hero in this damn uniform. So the library it is. He starts with one subject. Flips through several books. Sets them aside. Moves to the next. It's precise and methodical.

Sadly the haphazard pile of books he's accruing one the floor around him into mounds and toppling towers is anything but. Careful you don't trip turning the corner into this particular aisle of the library.]

[ROOF]
[Guns aren't a new concept to Zelos. That doesn't mean he has a clue how to use one. His legendary weapon didn't exactly come with instructions. He thinks he has down how it works. Mostly. The mechanisms aren't a complete mystery after careful study.

Now how the hell does he get it to shoot? ~~spoilers: you kind of need bullets to shoot anything WHAT A SURPRISE~~]

This thing is useless!

[Tossing it across the roof he doesn't particularly watch where it lands. ONE VERY MATURE ADULT HERE.]

»D. Something appeeling [picking weapons] | CLOSED TO TORIEL

None of this is interesting to Zelos. Pick a weapon? How about they give him his damn sword back! He hears what he's being told about legendary relics and special power and blah blah blah. It goes in, but he's not exactly processing it right now. He's too mad. This world. This place. This whole situation.

Isn't saving two worlds enough!? Message from the universe to Zelos: suck it, Wilder. He just can't catch a damn break. His sister living with him and it seems like finally he'll have some time to spend with her and--

Snatching up an apple he flips it up, catching it. Half the things here don't even look like weapons. He understands this is a new game, there's new rules, but damned if he doesn't want any part of it. Yet since when has that ever mattered? tl;dr FEELING BITTER.

So when he spots a... ... ...Rabbit woman? Something about her is familiar though he couldn't damned say how. Tapping her on the shoulder he holds out the apple. "This must be the garden of paradise; looks like I've found the tree this apple fell from. Nice day, beautiful ♥."

Aside from the part where he's clearly checking her out? When you're feeling bitter it's best to shove it all down and put on your mask. The battlefield's no place for personal feelings.

E. Roulette
Feel free to toss me your own starter! Zelos will be around so whatever works or feel free to drag him into one of the jobs. If you want to plot PM or PPing

sekishi works!

2, NEVER WANTED TO RIDE A SUBMARINE IN A POND TILL NOW

[the go-style stall happens to be the most nostalgic out of the many the courtyard has to offer; metal bat gravitates to it. many a time, he's played this game with his sister. it's not difficult—or it never was when his speed and reflexes were a mite quicker. now, badd's attempts to catch a fucking fish on this tiny fucking rice paper scoop without it fucking breaking through are all complete and utter failures.]

Flap yer scaly ass onto my goddamn scoop. [the hero is resorting to threatening bodily harm, his sweeps into the water aggressive, splashing other patrons trying to catch their own.

gritting his teeth, two more launches of his arm and three more smacks at the water, aquatic life terrified, then finally—a colourful fish is secured, muscular body gleaming in the under the warm glow of lantern-light, wriggling. metal bat almost heaves a victory holler, because yes it's the cutest one and yes it's taken an hour, but, tragically, he's grown far too accustomed to following through on his swings. arm outstretching, the fish whizzes off of the rice paper with a pop of its gaping mouth.

and its psychedelic drug-addled body soars, momentarily free from its earthly bonds, before careening at a fellow hero's face.]

3, MITOCHONDRIA IS THE POWERHOUSE OF THE CELL

[metal bat has been ordered by commander lisbrand to run ten laps around the hall of glory's premises. apparently smack-talking her favourite meal while she's passing within earshot is widely known as a "poor decision", because not only was he forced to finish the poison-on-a-plate, but was escorted directly after stomaching it to the training grounds to begin his punishment exercise.]

Keep it up, keep it—

[down, holy shit, keep it down.

it's the third round and someone doesn't look very good, lagging in step, hand on a queasy stomach. he's questioning his level of obedience to the blanc army, trying to ignore the upsetting gurgles his gut's making. in fact, badd appears to be very near doubling-over from the terrible mixture of mental strain from the monday mystery meal and physical strain of a heavy workout after lunch. narrowing eyes down, even grass looks revolting, face going pallid. fighting spirit can't really apply to wanting to fertilize the plants and die in the fetal position.

he needs a bottle of water—or, if a charitable soul has something stronger, like a store-bought remedy, he may be easily swayed to trade a favour for it.]

Ungh...

WILDCARD, "WE'RE ALL INDIVIDUALS" "—I'M NOT"

[hit metal bat up with a random scenario, the more the merrier!.]

( 一 ) KARMA WORKS IN MIRACULOUS WAYS
THIS PROBABLY ISN’T WHAT THEY MEAN WHEN THEY SAY “BE YOURSELF.”

( since his initial arrival, there have… inevitably been quite a few matters filtering through his brain. most of it, surprisingly, were recognisable forms of thought. ideas he’s circulated through a thousand times over. sometimes so frequently, it felt more like a natural motor response than passing consideration. the ideas were always bleak, of course. stark, even. but, yet, they still weren’t anything he was truly unaccustomed to feeling. actually, since he’s heard the word “war,” there’s only been one thought on his mind. a simple one labeled: destruction. the end of everything. an era, a universe…

it was actually enough to illicit a dark, higher pitched chuckle from the forefront of his throat. an almost alternate sound to the usual smooth tenor of his normal speaking voice. however, even that wasn’t… uncharacteristic of him. of how unhinged he was beneath the surface. even here, he wants nothing more than to turn this world upside down, if just to shut out the trembling shouts of the “black beast” that lay beneath the surface.

though. though. he knows better. he isn’t one to display all his cards out on the table, and more so, he was used to producing intricate plots. in seamlessly working out an actual plan. but, well, there was a certain order to things. melding in, for one. discovering more information, too. and of course— in peering at strange and ugly carriers!?!?

he stops in front of one… that’s particularly hideous. maybe a second coming of dolan. oh wait, that’s basically what elizabeth is. but, more importantly, he sees someone… who also looks equally entranced (is that the proper word???) with it. then, with a smug exhale, he speaks. languid and unrushed. ) So? Is that your pick. I suppose they’ve always said “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” ( what is this pa comment, and why is this dude with one eye talking about eyes or an eye, anyway?!

well, that’s for you to figure out. maybe... )

( 二 ) IF WISHES WERE FISHES, THEN…
WELCOME CELEBRATIONS, OR MORE LIKE “PLEASE GO BACK HOME.”

( there’s a measured distance to each and every one of his indolent steps. somehow, they seem purposely or even out of place. or maybe, the only thing that makes it appear so is the fact the person donning the uniform… is doing so rather haphazardly. barely buttoned up as he saunters along. disguises were crucial, he knows. but, really, this was a matter of necessity. as soon as he could afford to, he’d find something fitting to his yukata. or so he vaguely considers as he manages to stop upon a peculiar stall. fish scooping. it isn’t a practice he expected to happen upon in a place akin to this one. in a realm that seemed so far removed from his own.

hence, he ceases his steps. watches cautiously from the corner of his eyes as the person before him manages to… get the tips of their fingers against the fish in a poor show of proficiency. but, that’s not all either, he slowly watches as their … entire hand begins to change shades!? )

i. ( you are that poor loser with a blue hand…

and you’re about to get a really snide remark your way. ) I do appreciate a good festival. ( !?! )

ii. ( you may have simply been passing. you may have simply been minding your own business for the sake of securing your sanity, however, takasugi doesn’t exactly permit that sort of leeway. ever. with a hand reaching to gently resting against chest, his arm sticking into the opening he’s left in his top layers (he’s wearing it sleazy all right), he cuts through the bustle of the festivities. ) How confident are you in a gamble? ( aka, let’s see you be that person in prompt i. )

( 三 ) ACCUSATIONS MAKES AN A— … WAIT, THAT MAKES ZERO SENSE
THE ONLY THING THAT LOOKS LIKE AN ASS HERE IS YOUR BREAKFAST

( as a man of fairly simple tastes and a… bleak palette, save for yakult (and even that theory hinged more on comedic affect than anything real and solidified), he hasn’t been particularly impressed with their meals. they’re not as strange as the culinary “treats” have been in distant planets, but still. he isn’t one to really enjoy his food. he wasn’t a certain space brawler, and so he can’t say he’s ever really that interested. for survival he does what he’s required, but…

today’s food is…

he stares it down. honestly, he wasn’t even really standing in line, but somehow… he’s already been offered a slab of mystery… something. honestly, that looks more like … crap than anything actually edible. which is precisely why he’s leaving it for someone else’s responsibility. … and sadly, today that person is you. ) … ( yeah...

bye. )

( 四 ) THE OBLIGATORY WILDCARD OPTION;

( if nothing suits your fancy, i’d be more than happy to write you something else! or in reverse, hit me up with anything! )

( i. ) settling in
[ Although rather unsatisfied with the morning reception, very little about this situation lends to choices of free will. Thus having conferred with his roommates, read the letter and humored the tour and its guide, Levi finds himself traipsing about the armory and menagerie with few of his questions truly answered. Not that the folks here seem anymore willing to answer them, but he does manage to scrounge a few words of explanation for the usage of a Carrier up before he's rushed to make a decision. An ultimately negligible help, but that probably doesn't matter. The sword is an easy choice, like it was left for his use.

Though while there is one Carrier in particular that seems to solicit his interest, it is a different matter. As yes, a peck to the back of his sleeve would do that, even through the bars of its holding cage, but he isn't too apt to find it charming. Especially not when he hardly feels prepared to take on the care of some annoying pest of an animal with no sense of grounding here even for himself.

Yet fast forward to several minutes later and he's standing outside the same menagerie with said bird standing pleased by his side. Rather, they act equally reluctant, but Levi seems to have no qualms in assuming he's still being mocked. (The exchange with the keeper probably went something like: "Hey, why don't you keep a muzzle on your shitty bird?" / "He's perfect for you!")

Currently, he's holding the creature's wings down lest it perch on his shoulder. ]

Don't even think about it. Let's get going.

[ To be fair, he's not exactly a small bird... particularly for an owner just pushing five foot four. But either way, he appears quite reluctant to let Levi take him back to the Hall by foot, and even when he stays put on the ground, Levi's pushing comes at no avail. ]

I'm not gonna say it again.

( ii. ) welcome celebrations
[ While he isn't exactly a stranger to withstanding the reception of unwanted celebrations, Levi has yet to see a Survey Corps expedition set off with anything nearly as ostentatious as these floats. Accordingly, not long after he's been ushered over to one, he makes the keen decision to hop from its platform and join the crowd.

He isn't free from being accosted for autographs there either, though after he realizes the happy citizens of Caissa aren't prepared to answer his questions about where he can "speak to their foreign affairs people," he is slightly more attuned to accepting fawning from someone offering him food. The same couldn't be said for the attention of children. They tug at his sleeve much like the bird had, and don't take accusations of being "noisy brats" to heart.

Perhaps his sympathy for children is greater. There is a growing pile of prizes being snatched up by them at his feet as he aims another arrow. ]

( iii. ) the day after: caissa's town plaza
[ Setting up shop seemed, to Levi, the least offensive job available to him. And by virtue of no money for even a private bath, he's a very hard worker. He doesn't complain about any of the jobs that he's asked to take up, and hardly offers a word edgewise to the other workers or to the customers. Granted, the effect of this on his apparent employee friendliness is a bit questionable. A few customers may appear to be too intimidated to ask for his help here and there.

Perhaps you've also taken up Anne's posting, or perhaps you've simply stepped in as a customer. For both, Levi can be found working efficiently to put together displays, carry heavy objects to and fro, or deliver tasty looking Ma Jiang delicacies to various tables.

Just ask if you need him. He's the one wearing an apron over the Blanc hero uniform, and a kerchief in his hair. ]

( iv. ) the day after: hall of glory courtyard
[ The sword, which he had found himself so easily gravitating to, is a decision Levi finds himself less sure about given the chance to train with it proper. While he certainly appears to know his way around the use of a blade, the trouble sets in not when he gives a proper beating to some training dummies or when he dances agile through the courtyard stones as if fighting an invisible foe—but when the sword's ability chooses to rear its head, at both his own attempts to tame it and at random. At one point, you may even be fortunate enough to witness him lose his footing midway into a leap.

He did probably just hit his head on the way down there, yes, but should you really say anything to that glare? Move along, friend. ]

( v. ) wildcard
[ Have something else in mind? Want to collaborate on a job? I'm all in. You can contact me at

shomonkai for questions or send a PM. ]

Edited 2016-01-31 09:00 (UTC)

i – settling in

[ If this were any other situation, Ichigo would really be amused by the fact that he’s issued a weapon that resembles his old self. However, while he’s not showing it, Ichigo is still deeply concerned about the situation he’s in. He’s stuck here without any of his brothers in vicinity, and that itself is already making him uneasy. What would they do without him around? What if something bad happened to them back in his homeworld? His mind is wandering here and there without any focus—

—Although Ichigo’s carrier does have something to say to its master. The small thing keeps on nudging his side, as if trying to reassure him that nothing would happen. That quickly brings a smile to Ichigo’s lips. He laughs back at it, even. ]

Hahaha, you’re right. It’s going to be okay.

[ This is where he hugs the little Pegasus into his arms. Or at least that’s what Ichigo wanted to do, because as soon as he tried to do that, the carrier jumps playfully from his hand to… leap on a stranger’s face (a.k.a. you), hugging it tightly.

…He’s going to horse train it someday. Someday. But for today, enjoy the small horse on your face. It’s not an everyday occurrence, after all. ]

ii – dance

[ After he played (or more like, forced to play) some games, Ichigo knows what he need to do now. He needs to know one of the most crucial things to understand to survive in this place; at least someone –a hero- needs to understand the history about this place and its surrounding, be it well-known facts, or just some other minor facts. There are a lot of people in this place and unlike them heroes, they’re way frailer than them. He clearly doesn’t want anything to happen to them should something unexpected appeared.

While he’s trying to do a full review of this place, however, his entire plan to go over every corner of the town is quickly nulled. When he’s passing a horde of kids dancing and playing around the snow, Ichigo is immediately pulled to join them. To make it worse, a lot of people are watching them, with him included in the middle, and he’s not exactly the best dancer out there (Sure he can dance, but just… mediocre).

Even here, Ichigo Hitofuri is still a favorite of the kids, somehow. This is surprisingly one situation where he doesn’t like to be surrounded by them though. He have other things to do here, and he clearly needs help. ]

iiia – library

[ For the whole afternoon, Ichigo can probably be found inside the library, since yesterday was a trainwreck and he missed his chance to understand things. Sitting on one of the chair, there are a lot of books beside him. Those books mostly contain information about Blanc, manas, and other unique things regarding this world.

While he looks so concentrated in his reading, he will definitely react if somebody said hi at him. Or if you’re around for the same intention as him, Ichigo is definitely more than content to discuss and share what he could get from those hours spent in the place. ]

iiib – training

[ Later on that evening, Ichigo is crashing the courtyard to train. It’s cold with the snow, alright, but he can’t let his blade goes dull. He’s mostly trying to get used to his new weapon (because while it resembles his old weapon, Ichigo is still getting the hang of the magical part) against the dummies, but should there be someone who’s as gung-ho as him at this hour, he’s probably going to offer them a spar or two.

After all, dummies can’t attack him and Ichigo clearly needs to gear his reflex back in action. ]

iv – wild card

[ Give a starter! I’ll definitely reply back with what you want! You can also hit me at brionacs if you want to plot! ]

TWO ♟ WELCOME CELEBRATIONS

[ With little time to truly settle in, Nico's already full of complaints from the moment she opens her eyes. Of course, the pigeon nannies will hear none of it, so after changing she brings her complaints elsewhere — the pick-up location. Why was she given a mirror as a weapon? And a pig?! Sure, the pig was smaller than most and quite cute if you squint but Nico never asked for any of these things!!! This is the worst!!!!!

... Nevertheless, her mood does a 180 at the parade. Nico lied. Surely, Nico has died and gone to heaven! This would explain the float, the cheering crowd, the attention... the adoration! If it's autographs they want, it's autographs they'll receive! Her own having already been practiced hundreds of times for a moment like this. Either way Nico's pretty engrossed in this whole thing and anyone is free to side-eye her since she keeps saying gross things like: ]

With just a little Nico Nico Nii, I'll put a smile in everyone's hearts! Please continue to support Nico, for Nico-Nii loves you all!

[ Anyways... later she can be found stuffing her face with samples when she believes no one is looking. Maybe you were reaching out for that last sample on the current plate, but Nico's faster and will snatch it away from you with her greedy little hands. ]

THREE ♟ THE DAY AFTER

A) snownico [ Upon seeing the horror that is Monday's breakfast, Nico realizes the need for currency is dire, and she isn't exactly against working a few jobs as long as she doesn't have to get her hands too dirty. Of course, she decides to build a snowman for the orphans... except she's trying to make snowmen that look like her.

She's also trying to make the children act like her.

Uh. ]

Everyone, repeat after me! Nico Nico Nii!! [ With her bubbly voice she strikes a pose, and while some children comply, ultimately the consensus is that they all want that BIG SNOWMAN! And well, Nico isn't one to want to let children down. ]

A-Alright, alright! Fiiine! Nico will make you the biggest snowman so leave it to me! [ FYI she's about 5 feet with a rather useless weapon. She's gonna struggle and she knows it. In any case , please try not to mistake her for one of the children... she's not that tiny. Or actually, please do. ]

B) training? [ After completing her task and doing some exploration (because hell yeah to the music and dance room), Nico lounges around at the parlor, utterly exhausted. In one hand is a silver handheld mirror while the other is currently propping her head up as she looks at her "weapon" with skeptical eyes. It's somewhat on the heavy side, reminding her of the weight of her situation even if she had momentarily forgotten, or more accurately, threw aside so she didn't have to think about them. But really... ]

If they're going to give me something, then it should be something more useful. What am I suppose to do with this? At most I can just put on make up with this but I th— [ Suddenly a flash of blinding light shoots through the glass... AND THIS IS WHY WE DON'T PLAY WITH OUR WEAPONS, CHILDREN. No matter how harmless or useless they might look to be. ]

Waaaaaaaaaaaaaah!

[ With a screech, she drops it... and although she's definitely momentarily blinded, she's also relieved that there is no shattering off glass. That's 7 years of bad luck okay... ]

♟ WILD CARD

[ Hit me up with anything! As an unsurprising side note, Nico will spend plenty of time in the music or dancing room because idols gotta... idol. ]

Edited 2016-01-31 12:02 (UTC)

A ♟ WELCOME CELEBRATIONS

(ONE)

[Lapis is still Very Unhappy about this entire situation. Her sister isn't here, her ghost buddies are gone and she can't even see or hear any ghosts. The only thing helping to make this even remotely bearable was the fact that her carrier was really cute. How can a black fox who's really cuddly not be anything but cute! By now it's managed to find a comfortable position on her shoulders so that it's basically curled around her neck.

But now she's stuck on this float thing, and she really doesn't want to be here. She didn't ask for any of this, so she's certainly not gonna stay up here. Though this means trying to find a way off, which also might mean stepping over her fellow Heroes. Surely they won't mind, right?]

... Move, I want to get off. [Pause.] Please.

[At least she's trying to be polite.]

(TWO)

[Well, at least there's free food and Lapis can never really say no to that. Her mood is still very sour, but she's happy enough to go over to the stalls when she's called over, feeding some of the food to the Carrier still somehow wrapped around her neck. Though some of the food is... questionable. Especially that singing fish, why is it singing, she doesn't want to eat something that sings!! So she'll be trying to edge away from that, trying to politely tell stall owner that she doesn't want any of that.]

... No, thank you. I don't trust food that makes noises. Or is still moving.

[At least later on she gets dragged into dancing with the children, and this is something she's definitely okay with! Having danced for years and years, she knows what she's doing and she's easily able to keep up with the children and not somehow fall over in the snow. Any other Heroes who got dragged in and aren't having as much luck, such as tripping over in the snow, will find themselves quickly pulled back onto their feet again by her. Both because she likes being helpful, and also because she doesn't want to mess this up for the kids - so back on your feet, buddy!]

B ♟THE DAY AFTER

[So much for hoping that this was all some sort of dream. So she really is stuck here, and she sighs softly as she takes a look at the... weapon, she had been given. Not that it's really much of a weapon, since it's just some ribbons tied to a wooden handle. Right now she's just absently wondering through the hallways, trying to decide what to do as she eyes the weapon in her hands - she doesn't even know how to use this.

Then she sighs and shakes it a bit, seeing if it'll do anything but not really expecting it. Only for a mini-tornado to suddenly appear and go bellowing down the hallway. So anyone nearby will probably get knocked over, or... lifted into the air for a moment. before it keeps making it's way down the hall. And Lapis can only just stare, glancing at the ribbons in her hand for a moment before she decides it's probably best to try and stop that thing before it actually damages something. She does not want to run any laps!]

♟ WILDCARD

[Feel free to throw anything else at me, I'm totally open to everything!]

Edited 2016-01-31 13:40 (UTC)

settling in...

[ Since arriving here, it's been one thing after another and there's hardly been any time for her to gather her thoughts. Get dressed, identify your roommates, pick up your weapon, pick up your carrier, go get yourself some food-- Marie hardly knows what she's doing by the time she can finally take a breather. Dressed in an unfamiliar uniform with a long battle rod strapped to her back and a small fox-like creature at her side- this feels like a dream, if she could have dreamed up something so elaborate. Part of her thinks there's something to be thankful for in the fact that she doesn't have too much time to think. However, she knows that it can't always be this way. Eventually things have to take a rest and then...

Not knowing how long she might have, she skips lunch to look around. With all her new items, she knows she can't blend in but she can try to learn something about her situation. ]

This place couldn't be more different.

[ She pokes her head around- peeking in shop windows, studying the different streets. ]

welcome celebration

[ Because she skipped lunch earlier, she's happy to accept the different samples; although the fruit she gets is offered to the tiny fox at her side when it yips and rubs against her leg. But the real joy is the snow. Although she would have liked to just admire it a little, she soon feels tiny hands tugging at her.

'Let's dance!' is what the children are saying. ] But I don't know how-- [ But because she doesn't have the heart to pull away, she ends up among a group of dancers, looking around at everyone like she doesn't know where to even begin. Help... ]

the day after

[ Although she still feels overwhelmed, there are still things she can do. One of them is to participate in weapon training. If this was given to her, then she was certain that there was a good possibility she'd need to use it and if so, she wanted to be prepared. The long rod was unlike anything she'd used in combat before. But part of her Super Soldier training had included martial arts and hand to hand combat, both which lightly touched on the skills she would need to properly use her new weapon.

Taking an open space, she begins testing out the weight as she swings it. She practices both swings and strikes. It's a long process of 'this works' or 'this doesn't work' or 'maybe I could use this like...' before she starts to feel more comfortable with it.

Ultimately she's going to need help if she wants to learn how to implement it in a real fight. So she looks for someone to spar with-- trying to keep in mind weapon types and how they'd match up. Ideally she'd like something mutually beneficial, where they could both learn something from the match up, however she knows she can't be entirely picky.]

Would you mind helping me with a little hands-on practice?

settling in

[ Even after spending most of his life in civilization and away from the jungles, Wukong is still a monkey. So imagine his surprise as he steps into the dining hall and catches the familiar scent of bananas, seeing the mash, yogurt, and smoothie and wondering:

'Is this real life?'

He's almost a blur, grabbing each of the food items and finding a place to slam his tray down (but not so hard to send anything flying, he can read and abide by the rules). Wukong has to taste everything once so he can save the best thing for last, the one flavor that will keep his palate happy until whatever comes next!

The yogurt? Good. The smoothie? Excellent. Now, the mash!

...

And no leftovers, huh? Oh no. Life sucks. Whatever's in the horrible mixture, it's not just bananas. It's... a monstrosity. ]

welcome celebrations

[ How did Wukong get conned into being the victim of the dunk tank? It is a mystery. Still, he's sitting on the rickety platform, hoping that he won't have to go back to his room soaked. A drenched uniform plus fur? That's an awful feeling, one that he hopes no one else will ever have to feel.

If you dunk him, he'll remember this. Probably forever? ]

help us set up the stores, please!

[ Through his scouting of the city, he found the job on a board inside The Poisoned Pawn. It seemed pretty simple, carry some heavy things around and get some free food--- and given what some had been saying about Mondays and the dining hall... that's a big NOPE, especially after the disgusting mash Sunday morning.

Still, the boxes of equipment aren't too heavy for a strong monkey like him! There's some muscle underneath that brown fur of his. It's a pretty good workout combined with hopefully earning some colle for future meals or something nice to decorate his side of his shared room.

But one thing bothers him, and he has to stop and wonder as he's in the middle of going back to get another box.

He'll nudge someone passing by and ask: ]

Hey, why do you think they're holding these monkeys hostage?

wildcard

[ Got something else for Wu? Let's goooooo! ]

1A: Q205

[ Now that he's dressed and kind of gotten used to waking up in a new body (again), he's trying to wrap his mind around their current predicament. Starring out the window, he seems preoccupied with what's outside as he makes aimless swats at the mechanical pigeon urging him to collect something from the armory.

The scenery outside is so strange, as if taken from illustrations of story books, it's real and yet seem so surreal at the same time that he's barely registering it's existence. Two suns. ] How is that possible? [ It makes him curious of the composition of this world's solar system. ]

1A: Somewhere outside Q205?

[ Really? Glass slippers? Who approved something like that as a weapon, much less for a man? He was so close to throwing them into the officer's face after arguing with him that glass slippers aren't fit for any kind of battle before he was shushed off with "It's magical. NEXT!" and forcefully herded out of the office.

Which is why he's now stalking back to his room, all ruffled and pissed, with the glass slippers in a (surprise! not!) glass shoe box. The only good thing about his trip to the armory is the carrier that is now floating beside him. At least, it's something that he's marginally familiar with.

In any case, approach with extreme caution. ]

2: After the parade

[ Rather than the food, he's much more interested in learning about this world, this city he's supposed to protect and her people. But with everyone offering him food, he gets distracted by the sound of his rumbling stomach instead. Politely agreeing to try some food offered, he nods to the shop owner and grabs a bowl of noodle from the buffet table. ] Thank you.

[ He's about to take a seat when he almost bumps into you, with hot soup and all, after the shop owner's little son suddenly hugs his leg before running away sheepishly for having "touched a Hero". ]

Sorry. [ Looking up from his tray of the now slightly spilled bowl of noodle, he frowns and offers an apology. If the soup gets on you, it's not his fault. ]

3A: First breakfast...

[ If you're gagging at the breakfast, he's not. Really. In fact, he seems completely fine with the plate of breakfast he was served, even though Tieria isn't sure what he's eating... He had had worse, if that's saying something.

In any case, once he's done, he's going to head out to Hall to check out the bulletin board he passed by earlier. If you're there, he's going to offer you a nod before he proceeds to read whatever posted. ]

Threaded | Flat

Page 1 of 2

HALL OF GLORY