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sinfucks2025-05-01 11:52 pm
synfluxmods) wrote in sinfucks2025-05-01 11:52 pm
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TEST DRIVE #10
TEST DRIVE #10
▶ 001. ARRIVAL / CAFETERIA. (KYOTO BASE)
It happens in the blink of an eye, a dash of time – you're taken from where you were. What you were doing... it isn't important anymore, and slowly, you give up the desire of your normal life. When you awaken, figures are looking down on you from a surgical table.
"Yeah, this one will do. Let's take them to the rest." That's all you see before losing consciousness again, only to wake up in a pod with many others.
"Your questions will be answered soon enough, as I'm sure you will have many," a female, robotic voice says.
Just then, you regain consciousness in a pool of stasis liquid along with many others. You realize you are underground. Your new life is about to begin... whether you like it or not.
When the pool mostly drains of its liquid, each new Outsider will find themselves in what appears to be a large pool of some sort; they are underground. The base in Kyoto isn’t fully equipped with individual pods, and so the newly arrived will find themselves in a tangle of limbs, or depending on when they wake, utterly alone in this vast space. While normally they arrive in their undergarments, there is a chance that they could arrive totally nude due to lack of resources in Kyoto. Those who are not nude, however, may find themselves in whatever undergarments LILITH could provide for them at the time. Maybe it's something basic and simple like whitey tighties, or something saucy like a lingerie set; maybe matching Hello Kitty bra and panties. When they fully regain their bearings, they will be ushered into the medical bay space right across from the stasis pool, in which several grey LILITH-issued yukata will be prepared for them.
If a character has any accessibility needs, they will be found here. It's about then they will feel a sharp pain at the back of their eyes, almost like there’s a foreign body lodged in their head. This pain will subside quickly as their body adapts to the changes, but there will always be a sensation of something being not quite right, that their bodies have been changed forever. They would be correct in thinking that. In the stasis pool, all Outsiders have been surgically fitted with ocular and brain implants that will enable them to communicate with LILITH and the rest of the crew, as well as providing them the information they require. Almost like a computer screen has been loaded into their brains, they will see a loading screen as the implant completes its download. A questionnaire will then pop up, waiting for their answer. A voice, robotic and feminine, will also read along in their brain for them.
█ █ █ LOADING COMPLETE … BEGIN ORIENTATION …
Outsiders will receive a quick brief about their situation: they will be told that the year is 2279 and they have been taken to Neo Tokyo, one of the last bastions of mankind in a world terrorized by various Kaiju and monsters. Only a third of the population remains, and LILITH has gathered talented people from other dimensions here as a last ditch effort to save humanity. Outsiders are free to continue asking LILITH questions through their implant, but there’s no guarantee that they will provide them with a straight answer …
Outsiders will also notice an implant in their dominant wrist. This implant has a barcode in it that will enable them to purchase goods from the local stores in Neo Tokyo. They will receive a starting balance of 15,000 KRYPTOS (about USD 100), which is barely enough for a few good meals, groceries, and supplies. They can view their current balance through a hologram window projected by their ocular implant.
The mess hall at this base is on the surface level, not underground, and while it's larger, it does have a lot of empty space that still needs to be filled. The kitchen can be seen and one or two robots are busy stirring pots and preparing the dishes. The current offerings are deep-fried sand crocodiles, skewers made from various healthy and protein-packed bugs from the desert, and a stew that seems to have chunks and tendons of a mystery kaiju. Additionally, as only so much robotic staff could be brought over at a time and most are being used to rebuild parts of this base and the one in Tokyo, Outsiders will also be encouraged to make their own meals. The recipes will all be made available on their oculars, but considering these meats come from various sources, they’re not all guaranteed to be tasty.
With SYNTHIA repaired now, she is happy to chime in.
"Yeah, this one will do. Let's take them to the rest." That's all you see before losing consciousness again, only to wake up in a pod with many others.
"Your questions will be answered soon enough, as I'm sure you will have many," a female, robotic voice says.
Just then, you regain consciousness in a pool of stasis liquid along with many others. You realize you are underground. Your new life is about to begin... whether you like it or not.
When the pool mostly drains of its liquid, each new Outsider will find themselves in what appears to be a large pool of some sort; they are underground. The base in Kyoto isn’t fully equipped with individual pods, and so the newly arrived will find themselves in a tangle of limbs, or depending on when they wake, utterly alone in this vast space. While normally they arrive in their undergarments, there is a chance that they could arrive totally nude due to lack of resources in Kyoto. Those who are not nude, however, may find themselves in whatever undergarments LILITH could provide for them at the time. Maybe it's something basic and simple like whitey tighties, or something saucy like a lingerie set; maybe matching Hello Kitty bra and panties. When they fully regain their bearings, they will be ushered into the medical bay space right across from the stasis pool, in which several grey LILITH-issued yukata will be prepared for them.
If a character has any accessibility needs, they will be found here. It's about then they will feel a sharp pain at the back of their eyes, almost like there’s a foreign body lodged in their head. This pain will subside quickly as their body adapts to the changes, but there will always be a sensation of something being not quite right, that their bodies have been changed forever. They would be correct in thinking that. In the stasis pool, all Outsiders have been surgically fitted with ocular and brain implants that will enable them to communicate with LILITH and the rest of the crew, as well as providing them the information they require. Almost like a computer screen has been loaded into their brains, they will see a loading screen as the implant completes its download. A questionnaire will then pop up, waiting for their answer. A voice, robotic and feminine, will also read along in their brain for them.
█ █ █ LOADING COMPLETE … BEGIN ORIENTATION …
Name:
Username:
Civilian Identity:
Age:
Species:
Origin:
Blood Type:
Syndata File:
What is a memory you cherish, and why?
Outsiders will receive a quick brief about their situation: they will be told that the year is 2279 and they have been taken to Neo Tokyo, one of the last bastions of mankind in a world terrorized by various Kaiju and monsters. Only a third of the population remains, and LILITH has gathered talented people from other dimensions here as a last ditch effort to save humanity. Outsiders are free to continue asking LILITH questions through their implant, but there’s no guarantee that they will provide them with a straight answer …
Outsiders will also notice an implant in their dominant wrist. This implant has a barcode in it that will enable them to purchase goods from the local stores in Neo Tokyo. They will receive a starting balance of 15,000 KRYPTOS (about USD 100), which is barely enough for a few good meals, groceries, and supplies. They can view their current balance through a hologram window projected by their ocular implant.
The mess hall at this base is on the surface level, not underground, and while it's larger, it does have a lot of empty space that still needs to be filled. The kitchen can be seen and one or two robots are busy stirring pots and preparing the dishes. The current offerings are deep-fried sand crocodiles, skewers made from various healthy and protein-packed bugs from the desert, and a stew that seems to have chunks and tendons of a mystery kaiju. Additionally, as only so much robotic staff could be brought over at a time and most are being used to rebuild parts of this base and the one in Tokyo, Outsiders will also be encouraged to make their own meals. The recipes will all be made available on their oculars, but considering these meats come from various sources, they’re not all guaranteed to be tasty.
With SYNTHIA repaired now, she is happy to chime in.
Hello, my children. I have missed you all terribly. :) Have you been drinking your water?
▶ 002. HOTEL REVIEWS
Months prior, the main Neo Tokyo base was attacked by a kaiju named Imugi and left the base in shambles. Since then, the base has been under construction and the LILTH rebuilding crew is still working to finish repairs. Despite the attack, much of the city remained undamaged as the base took the brunt of it. Progress is being made, but there is no definite date on when repairs will be completed.
New and veteran Outsiders are free to return to the Neo Tokyo base as any remnants of rift energy have been cleared. They will find the base in various states of repair: the overall framework is completed and some areas may be up and running again, but there is still plenty of work to be done. The construction staff apologizes for the delays. They expected to be finished by the time everyone returned, but you know how these things go, right? Shipments get delayed, bad weather happens, there's a shortage of supplies, and before you know it, you're weeks behind.
Outsiders are welcome to try and settle back in base if they so please, but they may find many comforts lacking. Running water and electricity aren't reliable and much of the base is drafty, dusty, and noisy from construction. These are not adequate accommodations, so LILITH takes steps to secure temporary housing. Unfortunately, given the large number of Outsiders, LILITH is unable to procure a single place large enough to take them all in. Instead, Outsiders will find themselves with vouchers for various hotels across Neo Tokyo.
These hotels range from luxurious 5-star hotels with scenic views of the cityscape, to capsule hotels with shared baths. Most will find themselves in business hotels. The rooms are simple and cramped, but it should be fine for one person. Others may find themselves in more… creative establishments. These rooms are often spacious with plenty of room for two people to share comfortably, and the rooms often have specific themes and come with special entertainment packages — in other words: Love hotels. They're love hotels with all sorts of themes and characters. LILITH isn't very considerate when they book things like this.
For those who aren't satisfied with their free hotels or the main base, they can also go back to Kyoto's base through warp portals. However, LILITH personnel will remind them that continuous warping will result in travel sickness like nausea, headaches, dizziness, and problems with spacial and temporal awareness. For those who want to pick up work in Tokyo, help repair the base, or carry out some simple missions, this might not be the best option unless Outsiders have another way of travel (say, a Gundam for example. You know who you are.)
New and veteran Outsiders are free to return to the Neo Tokyo base as any remnants of rift energy have been cleared. They will find the base in various states of repair: the overall framework is completed and some areas may be up and running again, but there is still plenty of work to be done. The construction staff apologizes for the delays. They expected to be finished by the time everyone returned, but you know how these things go, right? Shipments get delayed, bad weather happens, there's a shortage of supplies, and before you know it, you're weeks behind.
Outsiders are welcome to try and settle back in base if they so please, but they may find many comforts lacking. Running water and electricity aren't reliable and much of the base is drafty, dusty, and noisy from construction. These are not adequate accommodations, so LILITH takes steps to secure temporary housing. Unfortunately, given the large number of Outsiders, LILITH is unable to procure a single place large enough to take them all in. Instead, Outsiders will find themselves with vouchers for various hotels across Neo Tokyo.
These hotels range from luxurious 5-star hotels with scenic views of the cityscape, to capsule hotels with shared baths. Most will find themselves in business hotels. The rooms are simple and cramped, but it should be fine for one person. Others may find themselves in more… creative establishments. These rooms are often spacious with plenty of room for two people to share comfortably, and the rooms often have specific themes and come with special entertainment packages — in other words: Love hotels. They're love hotels with all sorts of themes and characters. LILITH isn't very considerate when they book things like this.
For those who aren't satisfied with their free hotels or the main base, they can also go back to Kyoto's base through warp portals. However, LILITH personnel will remind them that continuous warping will result in travel sickness like nausea, headaches, dizziness, and problems with spacial and temporal awareness. For those who want to pick up work in Tokyo, help repair the base, or carry out some simple missions, this might not be the best option unless Outsiders have another way of travel (say, a Gundam for example. You know who you are.)
▶ 003. MAID FOR TROUBLE .
Over the course of the year, the present Outsiders' services have been noticed, especially with the terror of the Imugi finally taken care of. South Korea is particularly enthused over its defeat, and much trust has been regained from this. There has even been discussions of reopening its borders and permitting Outsiders to freely enter through the dataportal. Other countries have also looked upon this and the Outsiders' track record of harrowing missions with kaiju that genuinely seem more and more evolved, whether it be the one fought in Transylvania, or the recent one in Egypt. Outsiders will find that LILITH as an entity seems even more well-respected on the streets, and word of mouth has caused various trends to become increasingly popular as a result of each Outsiders' contributions. Perhaps these are the saviors of this Earth, and some Outsiders may be viewed as angels sent by the gods, or maybe just a celebrity.
While the Outsiders were gone, some of the local businesses close to the base have changed. Maybe their favorite curry restaurant has moved to another location to avoid the high risk of attacks, or maybe it's just hard to pay the rent in such an expensive area. A small cafe popular with LILITH workers is struggling to make ends meet and has reached out for help. Since the Outsiders are like local celebrities, if they could come help out for a promotional event, they could make enough money to support themselves for a while. Should the Outsiders agree to help them, they might find that they've signed up for more than just serving drinks for a day, something a little more glamorous, but still... maid for them.
The cafe is pulling out all of the stops. They'll give the Outsiders cat ears, maid outfits, butler uniforms, and all sorts of costumes for them to wear while serving customers. They'll also experiment with other themes like asking the Outsiders to act like different tropes. Are you a tsundere? Or a kuudere? Please, try! They're depending on you! Let these small businesses thrive by being the best maid or butler host you can be! As thanks for their support, the cafe will gift the Outsiders with a free dress upgrade for their most popular costume. May is the season for maids so everyone will receive a free maid or butler uniform.
Meanwhile, the city itself will be full of several people still excited by the last spurts of spring. Maybe it’s due to the bouts of odd weather caused by the prior kaiju attacks, but a lot of seasonal flowers and such that exist around the cities are still in full bloom alongside some early sprouts. However, no one can deny they’ve gotten a lot of artificial help. There are many opportunities for everyone to take a breather beneath the flowers and indulge in all the festivities that Neo Tokyo has to offer. All the major parks in the city have their own food stalls beneath canopies of wisteria, and even some early hydrangeas.
Maybe this is a show of the soon-to-be rainy season. Don’t forget your umbrellas!
While the Outsiders were gone, some of the local businesses close to the base have changed. Maybe their favorite curry restaurant has moved to another location to avoid the high risk of attacks, or maybe it's just hard to pay the rent in such an expensive area. A small cafe popular with LILITH workers is struggling to make ends meet and has reached out for help. Since the Outsiders are like local celebrities, if they could come help out for a promotional event, they could make enough money to support themselves for a while. Should the Outsiders agree to help them, they might find that they've signed up for more than just serving drinks for a day, something a little more glamorous, but still... maid for them.
The cafe is pulling out all of the stops. They'll give the Outsiders cat ears, maid outfits, butler uniforms, and all sorts of costumes for them to wear while serving customers. They'll also experiment with other themes like asking the Outsiders to act like different tropes. Are you a tsundere? Or a kuudere? Please, try! They're depending on you! Let these small businesses thrive by being the best maid or butler host you can be! As thanks for their support, the cafe will gift the Outsiders with a free dress upgrade for their most popular costume. May is the season for maids so everyone will receive a free maid or butler uniform.
Meanwhile, the city itself will be full of several people still excited by the last spurts of spring. Maybe it’s due to the bouts of odd weather caused by the prior kaiju attacks, but a lot of seasonal flowers and such that exist around the cities are still in full bloom alongside some early sprouts. However, no one can deny they’ve gotten a lot of artificial help. There are many opportunities for everyone to take a breather beneath the flowers and indulge in all the festivities that Neo Tokyo has to offer. All the major parks in the city have their own food stalls beneath canopies of wisteria, and even some early hydrangeas.
Maybe this is a show of the soon-to-be rainy season. Don’t forget your umbrellas!
▶ 004. RIFT EXPLORATION - OCEAN
During their venture in Egypt, the researchers have worked tirelessly in order to solve some of the mysteries pertaining to rifts and their correlation to the rift at the base of Mt. Fuji (see also: EVENT: KAIJU FIGHT #6.) From their studies, they were able to better pinpoint where potential rifts could be opening up. This is a huge discovery, if accurate, and so they would love to put it to the test. The sensitivity of these new sensors are strong enough to detect rifts that could appear deep within the oceans, rifts that are thought to open and close at times without anyone knowing due to their depth. As a result, they are prompting Outsiders to help assist in this process by checking out the newest area with a concentration of similar rift-like energy.
They need help in two areas: Tokyo Bay and Mt. Fuji.
For those interested in helping in Tokyo Bay, they will each be provided an Ocean Gem in order for them to better assess the situation at sea. Similar to the first experience, people will find that it transforms their bodies to be better suited at sea, which would help in navigating the environment as well as any instances of combat. For Outsiders who get a better grip on how to use the gem, the deeper they dive, they will find more mutated fish and other creatures. While the bay has always been polluted by humanity and from the remnants of kaijus themselves, they will see that a lot of these strange transformations mirror those of creatures on land who have extended rift exposure. All ocean life will be transformed, or even merged into others.
Some of the warped creatures found will be:
- Octopus, in which their tentacles act as stingers. If stung, it gives a numbing effect and may cause hallucinations.
- Angler fish that have merged with whales. These creatures will be extremely large and are marked as being particularly dangerous. Considering their razor sharp teeth, it’s advised to avoid them, if just to save time away from their actual objective.
For the Outsiders who do spend hours at sea, they will be able to make out a few important points from this: they will see flickers of what appears to be a rift forming, and will be able to report back these findings. Beyond these flickers of the rift, for those who aren’t deterred by fear or paranoia, they might see a glimpse into the rifts that appear to be of sky, or even trees. Some may also find strange wildlife that don’t look like they belong in the ocean, but due to the rift's effects, they almost seem like indefinable lumps. These can be submitted back for research, as well as any other relevant specimens found at sea.
They need help in two areas: Tokyo Bay and Mt. Fuji.
For those interested in helping in Tokyo Bay, they will each be provided an Ocean Gem in order for them to better assess the situation at sea. Similar to the first experience, people will find that it transforms their bodies to be better suited at sea, which would help in navigating the environment as well as any instances of combat. For Outsiders who get a better grip on how to use the gem, the deeper they dive, they will find more mutated fish and other creatures. While the bay has always been polluted by humanity and from the remnants of kaijus themselves, they will see that a lot of these strange transformations mirror those of creatures on land who have extended rift exposure. All ocean life will be transformed, or even merged into others.
Some of the warped creatures found will be:
- Octopus, in which their tentacles act as stingers. If stung, it gives a numbing effect and may cause hallucinations.
- Angler fish that have merged with whales. These creatures will be extremely large and are marked as being particularly dangerous. Considering their razor sharp teeth, it’s advised to avoid them, if just to save time away from their actual objective.
For the Outsiders who do spend hours at sea, they will be able to make out a few important points from this: they will see flickers of what appears to be a rift forming, and will be able to report back these findings. Beyond these flickers of the rift, for those who aren’t deterred by fear or paranoia, they might see a glimpse into the rifts that appear to be of sky, or even trees. Some may also find strange wildlife that don’t look like they belong in the ocean, but due to the rift's effects, they almost seem like indefinable lumps. These can be submitted back for research, as well as any other relevant specimens found at sea.
▶ 005. RIFT EXPLORATION - NEO TOKYO.
Back at Mt. Fuji, they need help from Outsiders in furthering their research on the effects of rifts, and also on its potential cures. Currently, they do know the following facts:
- Rift poisoning can happen from just extended exposure to being around a rift. The body reacts to the rift's energy on all levels.
- There are several known symptoms of being rift poisoned including: nausea, vertigo, loss of control/increased impulsivity, aggression, and even lapses in memory.
- Extended rift exposure, depending entirely on proximity and energy levels of rift, or even some correlations to the kaiju that come from them, may cause transformations in one's genetic makeup.
While the latter is obviously far too risky to pursue any real research at present, they are asking for those who have helped to research these rifts to come and stop by, especially if they have exhibited any of the symptoms of rift poisoning. If so, they will be asked to fill out a survey to discuss their findings.
SURVEY QUESTION:
Outsiders will be encouraged to share their responses, and some may even be uploaded to a shared portfolio. They didn’t say it would be anonymous, did they? Oops. Hopefully you didn't say something that you didn't want someone else to see. Additionally, the questions could also differ from Outsider to Outsider, and could even be extremely pointed and specific.
For those who actually are willing to try the clinical trial medicines, they will find themselves under several potential side effects that are still being ironed out, including increased and uncontrollable hunger, being overly friendly to combat the desire for aggression, and even relaxing the muscles to a point where their bodies can suddenly give out. Researchers will advise people to help Outsiders who may look like they need that extra hand!
Those who assist in this research will be asked to camp near Mt. Fuji for the duration of these trials. They will be provided camper vans and any other equipment needed for their comfort.
- Rift poisoning can happen from just extended exposure to being around a rift. The body reacts to the rift's energy on all levels.
- There are several known symptoms of being rift poisoned including: nausea, vertigo, loss of control/increased impulsivity, aggression, and even lapses in memory.
- Extended rift exposure, depending entirely on proximity and energy levels of rift, or even some correlations to the kaiju that come from them, may cause transformations in one's genetic makeup.
While the latter is obviously far too risky to pursue any real research at present, they are asking for those who have helped to research these rifts to come and stop by, especially if they have exhibited any of the symptoms of rift poisoning. If so, they will be asked to fill out a survey to discuss their findings.
SURVEY QUESTION:
How likely would you say it is that you would attack a teammate? (1 very likely, I’ve done this before to 10, I would never and have never).
How is your impulse control?
Have you ever gambled? How likely is it that you would?
Have you ever had a taste for blood?
Have you ever forgotten something important?
AI-generated questions created by SYNTHIA.
Outsiders will be encouraged to share their responses, and some may even be uploaded to a shared portfolio. They didn’t say it would be anonymous, did they? Oops. Hopefully you didn't say something that you didn't want someone else to see. Additionally, the questions could also differ from Outsider to Outsider, and could even be extremely pointed and specific.
For those who actually are willing to try the clinical trial medicines, they will find themselves under several potential side effects that are still being ironed out, including increased and uncontrollable hunger, being overly friendly to combat the desire for aggression, and even relaxing the muscles to a point where their bodies can suddenly give out. Researchers will advise people to help Outsiders who may look like they need that extra hand!
Those who assist in this research will be asked to camp near Mt. Fuji for the duration of these trials. They will be provided camper vans and any other equipment needed for their comfort.
▶ 006. AFTERWORD.
Welcome to our 10th TDM! All TDM threads are game canon and characters who don't app will be glitched out of this world. As the TDM will act as the event, existing characters are heavily encouraged to participate. Please use this format for top levels: CHARACTER | CANON | CURRENT / NEW CHARACTER.
There are currently 12 available player slots. New players are welcome to use this TDM to get samples for APPLICATIONS when they open.
Use the code provided in the ARRIVAL prompt if you'd like to participate in the ice breaker, and place it in your top level along with your other prompts. Anything such as civilian name or username can be marked as UNDECIDED if you're unsure of what you'd like your character to have for now. Though it says 'Orientation', existing characters can still participate in the ice-breaker. Current Outsiders will have their Syndata files accessible for all to see. New characters will not have a Syndata profile but players can write a short blurb about the character for this.
Please note that all tags in this log will count for 2 points each and will count towards May AC.
There are currently 12 available player slots. New players are welcome to use this TDM to get samples for APPLICATIONS when they open.
Use the code provided in the ARRIVAL prompt if you'd like to participate in the ice breaker, and place it in your top level along with your other prompts. Anything such as civilian name or username can be marked as UNDECIDED if you're unsure of what you'd like your character to have for now. Though it says 'Orientation', existing characters can still participate in the ice-breaker. Current Outsiders will have their Syndata files accessible for all to see. New characters will not have a Syndata profile but players can write a short blurb about the character for this.
Please note that all tags in this log will count for 2 points each and will count towards May AC.
TDM #10 BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)
1. ARRIVAL PROMPT (KYOTO): Newcomers arrive with ocular and brain implants, and are given a breakdown of the premise with an icebreaker orientation to complete. They arrive in the Kyoto base in a communal stasis pool which is underground. The Neo Tokyo base can be visited, but it is still under construction from being damaged by a kaiju attack back in February.
2. HOTEL REVIEWS Outsiders are free to travel to Neo Tokyo and can return to the main base. There is no definite date on when repairs will be completed, but Outsiders can stay there if they so choose. Due to the poor accommodations, LILITH provides Outsiders with vouchers for temporary housing until the Tokyo base is completed. Outsiders are able to stay in various hotels that range from 5-star ones to love hotels. Those who want to remain in the Kyoto base may need to deal with side effects from constant warping for travel. Outsiders with other means of travel, such as Gundams, can avoid these effects.
3. MAID FOR TROUBLE: With the Imugi's defeat, relations with South Korea have improved and discussions are underway regarding the reopening of its borders. The Outsiders' recent exploits have gained global recognition, resulting in a more favorable reputation for both the Outsiders and LILITH. The attack on the base has impacted multiple small businesses around it, and business owners are requesting the Outsiders' help to raise more money through promotional events. Outsiders will be encouraged to dress up as a maid or butler to serve customers.
4. RIFT EXPLORATION - OCEAN: Researchers have made a breakthrough in pinpointing where potential rifts may occur. Outsiders are tasked with exploring parts of Tokyo Bay with a concentration of rift-like energy and are given an ocean gem to help navigate the waters. Outsiders will find various mutated ocean life as well as flickers of a rift, in which they can glimpse a scenery (such as the sky or trees) or wildlife that don't belong in the ocean. Outsiders are encouraged to bring back any findings or specimens for further research.
5. RIFT EXPLORATION - NEO TOKYO: Researchers on Mt. Fuji are looking into studying rift effects and developing potential cures. Outsiders who have helped to research rifts and experienced rift poisoning will be given a survey to fill out and are encouraged to share their responses. Those who are willing to give the trial medicines a try may suffer from some side effects, such as increased hunger or being overly friendly, and will be asked to camp near Mt. Fuji for the duration of the trials.
.
no subject
Haven't opened anything yet. [And he's sort of hoping he can avoid having to do so in front of everyone. As a kid he was ecstatic to rip open colorful paper and toss ribbons so he could show off high overhead all the impressive wonderful toys and items he got for his birthday. His friends would be so jealous, there'd be applause and questions, and he'd be the beaming beacon of the entire day! ... Now those childish desires have matured into young adult reactions, leaving him moderately embarrassed to open gifts in the middle of a room full of people staring at him. Honestly he'd rather open each person's gift in person with them instead.
Alas, not gonna be the case with Denji here. He'll likely be the center of attention all over again.] You want me to open yours?
[Ah yes, time to sneak a few before his boyfriend can make the announcement.]
no subject
Ah, saving them up, huh? [As someone who has never had a birthday or anyone to celebrate it, he's not entirely sure of the protocol when it comes to receiving large amounts of gifts. Whether it'd be impolite to not wait or whatnot. Maybe it's personal preference? Either way, it's Katsuki's party, so he figures whatever method the kid decides to employ is best. So no pressure from Yato either way!]
That sounds good! You can tell me if you like it or not, and if it's not something you want, I'll make sure to get you something else.
[He's hopeful that it will be something to please Katsuki, if only on the off chance he might get a smile out of him. He's still working towards that goal!]
no subject
Yeah. [For when people leave, but he has a feeling Denji's gonna make him open everything while the crowd's around, wanting to delight in people seeing Katsuki's reactions to their presents. As a kid, he'd be thrilled with a huge pile of gifts all for him. As a young man, he's miffed if there's more than three sitting on the damn table. Go figure. (WHY ARE YOU STILL CALLING HIM A KID WHEN HE'S 18?! ... TWICE BAKED 18 EVEN!!) Shitty god.]
You're not gonna get me something I hate. [Is that a threat, a promise, a vouch of trust, a warning, an expectation? Probably all of them matched up into one emotion. But excuse him for a minute; he heads to the group of presents to find Yato's. Once he does, he'll bring it back to the god for opening. You know, before Denji sees and can proclaim present time.]
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That should make it all kinds of fun, then! [At least he imagines so; getting a heaping pile of presents on Christmas made him giddy with delight. (But hey, just about anyone is a kid when you're over a millennia old! Besides, force of habit: Katsuki reminds him so much of Yukine. So "kid" is something of an affectionate moniker.)]
Hehe, I hope so. I'm looking forward to seeing your beaming, shining face. [He's definitely teasing, but he also means it sincerely. He doesn't expect a childish, joyful delight, but maybe a tiny smile would be nice. Something subtle and secret. While Katsuki retrieves his present, Yato obediently waits, nomming on bits of cheese and snack meats on the end of his toothpick. Lesson learned: manners at birthday parties are important.]
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For some people. [Grumbled under his breath as he fetches the gift from its grouping. How many birthdays or holidays has Yato gone through? Likely none of them celebrated as humans do, given the guy's history and origins. Gods probably don't have parties for their birthdays. No one believes in Yato back home, so no presents at his shrine. Etc. His existence here is gonna be a unique one.]
You wanna eat the wrapping paper? [That's a threat. Katsuki is able to tug the ribbon from the gift with his right arm, but that's about the limit of its strength right now. He takes over with his left, fingers "slicing" through the tape and creases to open the present in a deft, skilled few moves. Rather than ripping it open like a dervish as some expect him to do. What ends up in the white splay of wrapping paper is a... Huh, a one-handed cutting board.
For a few seconds, he's quiet, both surprised and touched at the thought behind Yato's gift. He has no intention of losing his arm permanently, but it's not gonna regain its ability any faster. He can't work in the kitchen as well like this, unable to hold things like a damn potato or carrot to cut them up by himself. Suddenly having a way to do exactly that? ... Yeah, there's a tiny twitch upward at the corner of his mouth.] Damn, your brain worked overtime for this.
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For you, too, hopefully. [Otherwise, what's the point? Honestly, getting to attend human events such as birthday parties is one of the highlights of being here. He's learning so much and living vicariously through others' experiences. Even though he's over a millennia old, he's never once had his day of birth celebrated. His father certainly didn't think him deserving of such a loving gesture.]
I've had worse~ [He has, too. Dummy's eaten letters before, like the total weirdo he is. More importantly, he waits quietly while Katsuki handles the wrapping paper and ribbon. For a moment he bites his lip, worried that it might be tied to tight or that he'll need to ask for help... but no-- he manages just fine, much to Yato's relief. Immediately, his expression softens.
He knows Katsuki has a calmer, more calculated side, so he's not shocked that the kid doesn't ravage the packaging. And he's familiar enough with him to realize that the silence immediately following the reveal speaks volumes. And he can see the way his lips curve up. A success...!] Right? I really had to think about what'd be suitable yet not too boring! I figure if nothing else, you can whack intruders with it.
[He kids, he kids.]
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Uh-huh. [Of course he has. What hasn't Yato eaten at some point? (He doesn't wanna know about eating letters.) If the ribbon had been too tight, he would've cut it with scissors or simply blasted it with a small explosion. Facing away from the box, of course. With the gift completely unveiled, he takes a minute or so to turn the box over in hand and scan over the options and promises made on the surface. Instructions inside, obviously, but he can gather how it works from a few turns and reads.]
Che. I've got better to hit with. [Besides, if someone intrudes while he's cutting on the new board, does Yato really think he's going to whack them with said board when he's got a knife in hand?]
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Hehe. [When you're desperate, you're desperate. (And when you're an idiot, sometimes you're a massive idiot.) During all this, Yato hasn't ceased smiling, relief and happiness mixing together into a childishly beaming face. He's glad Katsuki can easily see the value in his new tool and hasn't misconstrued the intent behind it.]
True! You come with your own explosives. [But yeah, that scenario is a little silly, isn't it? But then, so is Yato. Ridiculous is his middle name.] Oh~! What flavor of cake did you decide to ask for? That's an important part of birthdays, too, right?
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Katsuki finishes his perusal of the item and sets it to the side. Gonna have to go put this in his room so no one thinks it's up for grabs hanging out on a random party table. Can't put it back on the present pile or someone might think it's misplaced or try to wrap it again. One of the negatives brought about by opening a gift alone or early. Yato's cute and dumb, not mean or rude.]
That another way of asking me to cook for you? [Mild taunting at best, since he has cooked for Yato before. And made the guy work in the kitchen beside him, to his non-disastrous abilities at least. He blinks at the question, and a miffed expression crosses his visage.] Spicy chocolate, but Denji toned it down.
[For obvious guest-related reasons. Who wants chocolate dragon breath?]
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Still pleased with the reception of his gift, Yato keeps on beaming while Katsuki finds a place for said present. It definitely wouldn't do to have anyone try snagging it! Bad manners all around. And it might get the god to slap their hands with his sword, ala Katsuki with the tongs.]
Hey, if you're up for it, I wouldn't mind! I'll help out, of course, but having you teach me some more things would be nice. [He wants to get good enough to cook for others in return, honestly. Being able to feed himself is just a nice bonus, even though he now needs food like a human. At the flavor of the cake, his eyebrows raise.] Interesting choice! I bet it goes well with ice cream. Nice contrast.
[While Yato wouldn't mind breathing fire, he can see why not everyone would feel the same.]
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Said present is going to stay beside him for the time being; once they leave for a new area, he'll take it with him and either duck out to put it in his room or find a better place nearby to stash it for the time being. Bakugo would be lying if he said he wasn't interested in testing the cutting board already. Why the hell are you carrying your sword around at a birthday party, Yato?!]
Tch, thought so. [He grumps, but will do it anyways.] If you show me you remember everything I taught you already, I'll consider it. [Yeah, he makes Yato review the lessons he gave him prior, even if it's little more than a verbal quiz while they get set up for whatever they're making. He's a thorough teacher like that. Would he eat something Yato made by himself? ... Probably not, unless it was simple. Hard boiled egg, finger sandwich, noodles, etc.]
That's what I said. [But nooo.]
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It makes Yato so pleased that Katsuki seems keen on his present, enough so to keep it by his side until he can find a safe spot for it. If they didn't a;ready have so much food prepared, he'd suggest that they make something for everybody. But hey-- It's part of the look! War god and all! And maybe he just feels safer having a weapon by his side.]
Can do! I'm a good learner when it comes down to it. [At practical things, at least, if not behaviors. Somehow it's easier to just do things than to keep from doing them. Self-control isn't his strong suit. Not that he'd blame Katsuki for abstaining from eating his cooking; sometimes it's better to prove you can handle the simple things before diving into more complex ones.]
Hehe, right. Oh, maybe if we're here next year, you can get ice cream with those pop rock candies in it so they can kinda explode in your mouth! It'd be a homage to your explosions!
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Uh-huh. [Does he trust Yato's learning skills? For the most part. The guy has to be invested in something personally to put his brain into learning and retaining whatever he shoved into his head. Trying to work some good habits in there in the process. From budgeting to more self-control. Yato can start small and improve from there. At least Katsuki'll let him chop things.]
If we're still here next year, something's completely fucked up. [Grumbling despite acknowledging there are many people who would rather live out the rest of their lives in this place. Can he blame them? No. He's considered the same, since the impetus keeping him chomping at the bit to leave Neo Tokyo has been settled back home. But old habits die hard.]
Mom did that one year. The cake melted and ruined the candy.
[Ice cream cake that is.]
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Katsuki is wise to exercise some caution when it comes to Yato's ability to learn. Sometimes he's slow on the uptake, other times he's quick, like when it comes down to using weapons. Unsurprising considering the type of god he is. Now it's just a matter of expanding his prowess.]
You can't tell me you'd be surprised, though. You've been here a long time already, right? [Yato's on the fence of whether it'd be better to stay or go back home. For Hiyori's sake, he wants to go home, but selfishly he longs to stay in this place where he can have her and so, so many friends. A life beyond being an unknown god. A person.]
Haha, whoops! Guess it's not such a good idea after all, then. That's a shame. I think it sounds like it should've been neat.
[Yeah, that'd do it, heh.]
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Che.
[Grumping to the side. He doesn't like the feelings immediately clenching at his mind and chest. Anger at being kept here, comfort knowing he gets to stay with Denji and his friends, frustration over people not living their lives back home, determination to make sure this world is safe before they all depart. Two years isn't enough to repair and rebuild everything, to say nothing of how in the hell are they going to make sure the kaiju problem doesn't repeat itself.]
You'd have to quick freeze it. [Because getting them to stick means liquid, which causes the candy to pop. It's doable, but tricky to get the effect Yato's going for.]
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Ah, sorry, that's not really something to celebrate, huh...
[Immediately Yato's face falls into one of guilt, not having meant to have dredged up any unpleasant feelings or memories. Especially not today of all days. This is why he's a bit of a recluse despite enjoying being with others; awkwardness and ineptitude abound when he tries to interact with people. It's not something he's had a lot of practice at, despite his long life.]
Mmm, yeah, that makes sense. Maybe one day I can give it a try for you. [As something of an apology for sticking his foot in it this time around.]
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Hmph. We all have complex feelings about it.
[Katsuki brushes the guilt side, silently telling Yato not worry about it. He's already thought about the very aspect today. A birthday here, another one actually, marking how long he's been in this place. Away from his home, his friends, his world. While a lot of the worry and concern has abated, it doesn't change the reality here. He doesn't want Yato feeling bad over something that's on everyone's mind in the first place.]
Heh, making that kind of ice cream's a lot more advanced than your skill. [He shrugs, a smug little smirk quirking the corner of his mouth.] But you've surprised me before.
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Yeah... Still.
[He takes heart at Katsuki's attempt to absolve him of his guilt, smiling a bit to show it's appreciated. The least they can do as his friends is make today as enjoyable and memorable as possible, lessening Katsuki's concerns and pains at being apart from his friend and family back home.]
I believe it! One day, though, I'd like to get good enough to try. That's why I'll keep practicing everything you teach me. [He beams at the kid, all smiles.] Hopefully I'll surprise you again!
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Urusei. Don't make me force you into Denji's tail pin game. [He will if that's what it takes to get the god feeling brighter again. Of course he refused to play the damn game! It's stupid! And he doesn't need some piece of tape getting slapped on his back or ass for the sake of someone else laughing. That or challenging Yato to a card or board game. They have some around.]
What kind of food did they have on the Far Shore? Same stuff humans do? [Or was it transformed into more divine-flavored fare? Considering the gods came from humans in Yato's world, fair enough question.]
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Heh, gotcha. That actually sounds kind of fun, though! [He's seen it a couple times, during requests he's had from humans, but naturally it's not something he's ever gotten the opportunity to enjoy personally. Playing against Katsuki sounds both dangerous and fun at the same time. You always play with fire when facing off against a kid wielding explosions.]
For the most part, yeah. Gods base their culture off of the humans who create them, and I'm sure it was probably shinki who first introduced us to all the kinds of food humanity has come up with. [Maybe there is some divinity in the meals by sheer virtue of being from the Heavens, but there's a lot of familiar flavors to be had.] It's kind of funny, but from what I hear, trends in Takamagahara tend to follow whatever's popular on Earth at the time. So like they get the same seasonal crazes you guys get.
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You wanna do it, go for it. [And tilts his head towards the game area. It's not hard. Someone's blindfolded, someone's the target, and the blind tries pinning the tail on the target. Denji saw it at some point growing up and wanted to try it. Like so many other "normal" things the guy never got a chance to try while growing up. Katsuki wants to see him experience... fuck, everything positive he can, even if there's far too much to do for one lifetime.
Oh him? Hell no! He's not volunteering!]
What'd you eat before the shinki then? [Or is that before Yato's time and memory? He frowns in concentration and thought, trying to imagine what "trends" in a god's realm would look like.] Tch, you guys sound like stronger, longer-lived humans.
[That's not a compliment.]
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Maybe in a bit. It's your party, so I'd like to spend some time with you. [He can always get someone else to play later. Right now he's enjoying their conversation. And who knows, maybe they can play the game at his or Hiyori's birthday parties! That's one good thing about having lots of friends: plenty of chances to try birthday celebrations.]
Y'know, I'm not sure. Probably nothing, since technically Far Shore beings don't need to eat to survive. [He tilts his head at the comparison, considering it.] I suppose in a way we kind of are. Though we certain powers that humans will never possess, like the ability to create shinki and our unique abilities.
[He just happens to be a god without any special ones...]
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He sinks down on the couch and leans into its cushions.]
Then why bother eating when shinki brought food... [Where does it come from? What does it do for them? If they can't digest it or burn it off, wouldn't it cause bloat? Do they even have stomachs? QUESTIONS FROM A NERD!! ... He's not voicing all of them despite each one bumping at the back of his teeth.]
When you become the god you want, are your abilities going to change to suit it?
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When it comes to seating, Yato's more a flopper, causing the couch to bounce a bit with the impact.]
Good question, really. I think it's because we can enjoy it even if it's not necessary. [There's plenty about his own kind that Yato doesn't know, having been raised (if you can all it that) by a human who hated gods. It leaves him with many of the same questions Katsuki has, honestly.]
I don't think so, unfortunately... [He sounds rather bummed about that.] I'm a war god, so it's likely all my shinki will continue to be weapons of various sorts, and I won't develop any new skills or powers to match. At least, I don't think so. [He perks up a bit, smiling.]
But hey! You never know in life, do you? Maybe something will happen to help me become a true God of Fortune.
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Are you trying to break it? [Who just hurls himself down on a piece of furniture like a meteor?! Even bounces on the cushions, dammit. He has to scramble to make sure his own food doesn't get jostled on his plate, glaring death at Yato for it.]
Damn, you really don't know shit about your own kind. [Katsuki had some understanding of that, and the why, which isn't a good topic to bring up-- ever --but this hits harder. Sheesh. Hell of a way to live. No wonder Yato spends more time with humans.]
Weapons can be used as tools to help, not just hurt. [He looks down at his own hand.] My Explosion will do whatever I want it to. When it manifested, some kids in my neighborhood were scared. They said it was only good for destroying things. Like a villain.
[What'd he do? ... OF COURSE HE BLASTED THEM!! Dumbasses, deciding for him what he was gonna do with his Quirk!]
But I'll use it as a hero, to help, save, and protect. Even if your shinki can only become weapons, you choose how to use them.
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