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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.
.
(gets the trumpet out and gets ready to play TAPS)
All in all it's been a pretty good first half of the shift, but. Things are changing, now. DEARKA is changing. Literally, changing his outfit, he's in one of the dressing stalls "backstage", so to speak. (Let's just assume this place has one of those.) And there's a startled THUMP! From inside when Yzak calls out to him.]
Fuck... Yeah, just a second! I can't believe I let them talk me into this...
[There's a bit more rustling. Dearka's just going through a few options with his fashion upgrade, trying to settle on just how hard he wants to go on this. Does he really lean into the ridiculous aspect? Try to go with something that actually looks flattering? Probably the latter, right...? Ugh.]
The manager wants me to try something pretty different for the second half of the shift, but I dunno. I'm kind of thinking about pulling the plug on it already...
[He's still obscured by the stall curtain. Ominous...?]
picks out the coffin
What the hell are you doing in there?
[ Yzak is a polite gentleman at all times and especially so in public, so he would not dare peek behind the curtain like a common skeeve! Even if curiosity is getting the better of him and it sounds like Dearka is having an awkward time in there independent of his hesitance about this 'suggestion'. ]
Why? What did she suggest?
[ There's a touch of hesitance in his voice, because if Dearka, who's far more laid back where this sort of things is concerned, seems apprehensive about doing this... ]
no subject
...Fuck. Okay, don't freak out at me, alright?
[A pointless request, and he knows it. It's impossible to stop Yzak from freaking, if that's where his whims take him. He might as well ask the Earth to stop spinning.
That's all the warning he's getting anyway, before the curtain abruptly (and a little too forcefully) gets shunted to one side, revealing...
Revealing...
...Look I'm sorry I don't have a good visual reference handy, but it's basically beat for beat the same fucking maid dress and heels that he got forced into wearing almost a year ago. Titty window, those dancer's legs on full display...
There's also a scowl on his lips and a furious blush in his cheeks. And his eyes are shut, face turned slightly away in an uncharacteristic display of embarrassment. He's refusing to look Yzak in the eye until he's gotten.... Whatever his reaction's gonna be, out of his system.]
I might've let it slip that I could handle wearing heels, alright? And I guess some people are really into men cross-dressing, according to her? I don't fucking know...
1/2
[ He holds that ff as his eyes snap wide open with shock, and it's ... SO lucky for Yzak that Dearka has decided to shut his own. Unfortunately first and foremost, he feels horror as the memory invoked by the sight in front of him is that of home. Of stomping through the hallways of the Jule Residence calling out for his mother while holographic women in the image of bride candidates follow him, asking how they can serve in Ezalia Jule's voice. (THAT PART MADE IT SO MUCH WEIRDER) Of discomfort and self sabotage, guilt, confusion and frustration as the pressure of an arranged marriage is shoved at him over and over and over...
The memory from last year's arrival here is only so much of a step up from that. The humiliation Yzak felt forced into a maid dress and how awkwardly he walked in those heels. His face burning every time he stared down at himself or over to his partner suffering the same fate as him. How ridiculous he looked and how Dearka...
Looked...
And suddenly it hits Yzak like a truck when he sees that titty window and those impressive legs beneath the frilly hem of that skirt. Dearka didn't look ridiculous last year. He doesn't look ridiculous now.
He looks ... good.
Yzak ... likes what he's looking at.
And for a moment, he wants to simply pass away instead of unraveling this one and because he doesn't know what to do with this information. But he realizes the reason why he couldn't keep his gaze on Dearka for too long back then is because he knew it would have rustled those repressed feelings for him that eventually ended up coming to light anyway. He would have noted the flattering way the fabric of the uniform complimented his arms. The way the corset hugs his torso and shapes it in a way that begs to have a hand (Yzak's, specifically) run down that curve to a just as accentuated hip due to where the skirt begins to flare outward. How fucking nice those legs actually look, especially because he knows them quite intimately now. (and yet, something about this makes him want to get to know those legs in a whole new way when he thinks about how soft those ruffles under the skirt would feel if he—) Even the heels are hot because the way Dearka so easily carries himself while wearing them is impressive and Yzak remembers that he learned that from his dance classes and man he's so talented how can a guy get so lucky to have such a skilled boyfriend who also looks so good in something like this he can't let him out of here into the public nobody else should be allowed to see this but him in fact they should call it a day and head back and maybe he should keep the dress on—
...
Holy shit.
He feels like he's about to stroke out. ]
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No.
NO!!!
He cannot do this here. He will not do this here. He refuses to do this here and seem like some sort of nasty little freak who can't control his lewd little freak thoughts. In a public space, no less! He overrides the panic and completely shuts down all trains of thought even though a bunch of them are well out of the station! He thinks fast, something he's good at in a life or death situation which this currently feels like. Last time he could hardly bear to look anywhere but Dearka's face, right? So that's what he's going to do now. Look nowhere else, think of nothing else but the job they have to do.
(this is going to go so well)
Another saving grace here is that the way Yzak's face goes bright red? The way he stammers? Standard for him, just like when this happened before because the whole situation was just embarrassingly absurd. And this! Is also embarrassingly absurd!
(ESPECIALLY FOR HIM, RIGHT NOW!) ]
A-and you agreed to do this!?
[ His voice being a few pitches higher when he squawks that out is new, though. ]
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I said I'd THINK ABOUT IT.
[His eyes are open now, and Yzak is so, so lucky he didn't witness his initial reaction, because he'd be merciless. As things stand though, he just huffs and pulls up the fashion upgrade app on his ocular, switching immediately back to the butler outfit. Apparently what he was doing in that changing stall, rather than putting on a real costume, was just tweaking some of the details behind the safety of the curtain.
One hand on his hip, the other digs into his hair and musses it up a bunch, which is something he only does when he's really worked up.]
I thought I'd at least try being a good sport about it! But man, I just can't do it, their business is already improving enough! They don't need me to humiliate myself to stay open.
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[ The handsome butler outfit only somewhat softens this blow because, like, he can't just get over that after the ethereal vision he just witnessed. Is this what a religious experience feels like...?
Damn it, he needs to focus. Stop thinking about it. It's gone. He's safe. He can revisit these feelings later when he's alone and unperceived and doesn't feel like his heart is going to explode.
For a second, Dearka's words almost confuse him. Humiliate?
...
Right. Yes. Humiliate!
Yzak's mouth, open in a small "o," snaps itself shut as he clears his throat and pulls in a breath through his nose. ]
You're right, they don't! Let someone else go get ridiculed at their own expense!
[ As if trying to escape this awkward situation, Yzak turns, fast and rigid. ]
Now let's prepare the next round of or—
[ And with his mind going a mile a minute, because try as he might, he can't shake what he just saw and purge it from his mind, he moves before his dumb lecherous brain catches up with him and slams his hip right into the edge of the table there. Hard. ]
OW!
[ He doubles over, bracing his hands on the table's surface to catch himself. ]
Shit...!
[ Absolute fucking disaster man. ]
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Yzak?!
[Dearka is, of course, startled and alarmed by this turn of events. He moves quickly to Yzak's side, hovering next to him with clear concern. Like, REALLY hovering, "hands outstretched but just short of actually touching" level of concern, only refraining for fear he might accidentally brush somewhere that's injured. And why WOULDN'T he be immediately there? They're dating, and he's worried about his boyfriend's physical well-being! He has no idea what the proximity might be doing, what the real reason for all of Yzak's fluster is.]
The fuck, man? Are you alright? Fucking shit... Let me grab you some ice, there's no way that's NOT going to bruise...
[He hurries to one of the restaurant freezers, rummaging around inside.]
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[ He lifts a hand in a stopping gesture, hissing a breath in through gritted teeth. It smarts for sure, and Dearka's right that it will probably bruise, but this is the result of his own distracted, nasty mind. Truly, he deserves this for not having better control of himself. And at least hip bones can take a little more of a hit.
(and dearka's looked so good a moment ago-)
((AAAAAAAAAAAA)) ]
I'm fine! Just ... get the ice for the cold drinks while you're there!
[ He stands back up straight, shaking off the throb that lingers from where he banged it. (wrong thing being banged here) That was embarrassing! This is already embarrassing! It's going to get more embarrassing once Dearka realizes what's going on here! ]
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...Actually he looks. REALLY contrite, as he hands Yzak the bundle of ice. He huffs softly through his nose.]
Sorry, Yzak... [He rubs the back of his neck uncomfortably.] I'm a fuckin' idiot, I should've guessed that outfit would dredge up some bad memories, considering...
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Of course he would think that.
Yzak tips his head down with a small, dismissive shake of his head, more pink now than beet red at least. ]
Please, I can handle seeing a dress like that without making a whole big deal out of it!
I was just— caught off guard! That's all!
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...Alright, "we've been around maids all day" seems like a really fucking obvious observation when he puts it to himself that way, but! In the hectic moments after Yzak's freakout, he'd jumped to a lot of conclusions! Trauma from his overbearing mother was just the first thing he landed on. But now he's realizing that doesn't really track, so if it's not that then... What...
.....Hm.
While Yzak has his head tipped down still, Dearka moves in. He reaches a hand out to gently take Yzak's chin, tenderly lifting his gaze back upwards. They stare into each other's eyes for a moment, Dearka frowning slightly.
...And then without warning or even breaking eye contact, his ocular flashes, and he shifts his outfit back to the maid uniform again :/]
1/3...?
[ Yzak stares back into Dearka's eyes for one short, confused, and compared to what's coming, peaceful moment. He's still not used to this intimate a level of PDA, especially while on a job! So he opens his mouth to protest— ]
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Shit.
He knows. ]
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Yzak tears his chin from Dearka's fingers, and jumps back nearly a foot, which ... only gives him a nice full view of his partner again. (and those legs...) His face may as well be connected to the style upgrade with how it blinks back to a bright red as fast as Dearka changed back to that maid outfit. ]
W-what the hell are you doing!?
[ He sounds scandalized.
(the voice has also climbed back up a few octaves) ]
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Testing a theory.
[He is trying so hard not to break into a cheshire cat grin right now.]
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[ A stretch of silence. Yzak's gaze does not dare move from staying locked to Dearka's lest it look literally anywhere else right now. Does he keep trying to fight this losing battle?
Of course he does. He's very persistent, after all.
He turns his face away with a quick, snapping motion, the pieces of his hair not pulled back that frame his face swishing dramatically. ]
I don't even want to know what kind of weird theory you'd want to test in that getup!
[ He then full body turns to the side to face the table as if he's just going to get right back to work and drop this entirely! Only when he starts pouring the tea, he's looking down at it without actually watching what he does because he can still see Dearka in his peripheral. His focus is so split that he just
pours too much and the cup overfloweth. ]
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He's about to escalate by saying something teasing when the teapocalypse starts to happen.]
YZAK!
[The name comes out of his mouth as a startled laugh, Dearka snatches up a nearby towel with the intent of providing an assist.]
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[ He jerks the carafe he's pouring from back, overdoes that, so it sloshes and splashes on one of his arms. ]
Aaaaargh!
[ He slams it down after that, and hurriedly reaches to snatch that towel from Dearka (still without looking directly at him) when he comes to help. He hears the amusement in his voice, and as Yzak lifts one of the cups to wipe the tray beneath it, he grouses. ]
This isn't funny, you bastard!
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No, you're right, cuz it's hilarious, actually.
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He shoots a scrunched up, red-faced glare at Dearka, refusing to own up to anything outright. ]
No it isn't! This is-
[ Redirect. ]
Embarrassing, making such a mess!
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[Shocking news: Dearka does not sound at all convinced. In fact, he's just smirking now. (You like krabby patties, don't you squidward?)]
Then if that's the only problem, maybe I will wear this for the rest of the shift. Unless...?
[Unless.]
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Yzak's scowl gets BIGGER (it's always possible somehow for him) and he puffs his chest up. ]
Unless what?
[ He dares Dearka to finish that thought, trying to call this bluff and somehow believing he still has a chance out of this. ]
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(The gun is the titty window.)
(Don't look down or you'll be staring right down the barrel, buddy.)]
Unless.
[He lowers his voice to a purr. Pal, this ain't no fuckin' bluff.]
I could put this thing away and make it a... Special 'fit? One that's for privileged eyes only.
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What he lands on is turning his face away and closing his eyes, something of a middle ground between the two. ]
Th-this is not the place to talk about this!
[ It's not a no to Dearka's offer. That's progress. ]
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