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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
[He runs his fingers through his hair.] You know, now I have a feeling how my friend back home felt when I mentioned my feelins for him. I- didn't kiss him or anything, but looking back, admitting it in front of everyone and my parents wasn't the smartest idea. I think I can get past it.
[There's something else he should do. There is no months of longing on his end, no desire to jump into a relationship, but that shouldn't be a requirement. Taryon lowers his hand, moves it towards Astarion's, then stops.
A second later, he decides to throw all caution to the wind and grabs it.]
We can try. See how it works out, for now. [Taryon's chest his trembling on the inside, and he wonders why he hasn't collapsed to the floor.]
no subject
...I have held countless hands, of all races, genders and ages over all these decades. It was just a routine, I felt nothing every time I slipped their hand into mine. The appeal gone, the way it was written in books meaningless. Wrong.
[He titters softly, taking a small step closer and putting his other hand over Taryon's, holding it in both. It's so warm.]
I finally understand again.
no subject
Th-that's quite an honor. Really, after all this time, I'm the one.
[Oh, that laugh. Usually aimed at a joke, used in jest, now soft. Perhaps that's why Astarion didn't attempt to woo him like this first: it's super affective against a romantic.]
We can, um, continue investigating this room together. Like this. [He places his other hand on Astarion's, both of them clutching each other.] ...You really do have cold hands.
no subject
Yes. It seems you are.
[Not even Tav had tried to reach for his hand. And of course, Astarion hadn't tried, either. It was too hard, too frightening, to be so vulnerable. Even when he knew it would be so, so easy to woo Taryon, melt him with pretty words and flattery, he was too trepidatious to do so. It was one thing to do it to manipulate someone, another to do it in earnest. Easier to let it linger and fester, hope the affection rotted away.
But now he's happy it hadn't.
He chuckles again, smirking as he half shrugs.]
I have a cold everything. But I can warm up. [Sorry, he can't help the purr in his voice as he makes that double entendre, but then continues more naturally:] Like when you hold a cold stone in your hand for long enough, it grows warm.
no subject
Then let it bask in the sun of my arms. A human man also needs a cool stone to rest on after a strenuous journey. I do not mind your temperature. [Not until it's winter and Taryon really wanted to cuddle. But that's an issue for the distance future.
He removes one hand and lowers their joined ones as he steps to the side.] So! [His grine returns, and his head rises once more confidently.] We only have a short time here. Let's see what else this suite has to offer.
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Plus, Astarion does want to see if the room can be more ridiculous than it already is.]
All right, though I'm not sure what could top the bed. [He gives his hand a small squeeze.]. and don't think I didn't notice you brought in more than just my edible underwear.
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The art's kind of tacky. There's no consistent style between the room and the bathroom. I've seen this in history articles, the mosaics of the Mediterranean, but the contrast between this and the pastel colors of the bedroom is awful. Terrible interior design.
[Ah. So he noticed that Tary brought something for himself, which makes this conversation more awkward. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out the flavored condom.]
...I didn't have anything in mind when I bought this.
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But the tour has to pause as the human pulls out a condom and Astarion barks out a laugh. He takes it from him, holding it up to study he was appraising a jewel.]
"Blue raspberry", hm? I wouldn't have expected that to be to your tastes. [He holds it back out to him.] Unless you were assuming the other party would be a fan of that flavour?
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[He pockets the condom. So many comments he had in his head now had to be filtered before being spoken.]
Although it's not the worst thing they've invented. Not only is it easier to clean, and no one has to wipe stuff out of his hair, but it makes the whole...act less gross.
[A long, hard sigh.] Sorry, now it's just weird to talk about this with you.
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[He touches his own chin, pondering on how it feels now with this new layer to their relationship.]
It's only more to learn about each other. For instance... [He grind at him, head tilted just enough so he's looking at him through his eyelashes.] ...I find I like it when it's messy and it gets in my hair.
[And with that, he turns toward the Jacuzzi tub and pulls on Taryon's hand.]
Now, let's see if there's any hidden weirdness in the tub.
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He's pulled towards the tub before he can imagine something that would compromise his respectability.] The tub? Oh no, what's in here?
[He slides his hands out to grip the rim and lean over. Jets along the sides, no doubt for jacuzzi reasons.]
What about the bath salts? There might be something strange in there. [He crouches to open up a cabinet under the sink containing too many types of bath bombs and salts in shades of blue and green.]
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He peaks over along with Taryon, frowning in theatric disappointment.]
Oh, boo. I was hoping for something, I don't know, tentacle in nature. A mosaic, or even a small statue.
[He watches Taryon get into the cupboard, an eyebrow lifting.]
What's a bath salt?
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[Apparently, this establishment wants its users to bring in their own toys or buy something downstairs. Taryons peers at the tiled ceiling for a second bofore the unthinkable is asked.]
You never heard of bath salts? What do you do when you take baths back home? You-oh gods, you just used soap when you cleaned yourself. You never had a classy bath.
[Forget their investigation, Taryon takes out a container painted with bubble and mermaid imagery stating that it smells like the "fresh sea" or whatever that means.]
You've got to experience it at least once in your life. You have your swimming clothes, don't you? Let's try it here.
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[Another titter. He's having fun.]
No, we just shared a tub in our dorm. Sometimes soap was a luxury of its own that we would steal while out on business.
[He studies the jar he holds. It appears to have chunks of sediment in it, salt Astarion assumes, peppered with specks of...plants? Sand? Whatever it all was, it doesn't look very fancy to him.
He blinks, glancing up at Taryon.]
Swimming clothes? No... I don't swim.
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[He breathes in. Breathes out.]
Well, the only other option I know of is that you strip down as if taking a regular bath. You just add soap and a spoonful of this, and you come out feeling exfoliated and cleaner.
[But eyeing that can...Taryon wishes he could also have a lovely bath in this ridiculous room.]
We could...buy one for you right now? I'm sure there have to be stores that are still open. [Or they may be stuck with sexy thongs and edible underwear.] I don't know, I feel like you should try this at least once.
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Darling, I don't mind being nude. ...well, around you. I would love to try this bath out because I don't use the ones back at the base. [A quick, self-conscious look passes over his eyes.] The scar, you know. But if it's an issue for you, I can take a hand towel in with me.
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[He'd almost forgotten about the scar. Just another fingerprint of the evils Cazador did to him, only visible to those seeing him from the back. They never had any reason for Astarion to remove his shirt since the Valentine's Day party.]
...A towel will be fine. I'll get my swimming trunks.
[He pats the hand on his arm, then reaches for the the panel. In this tub, there's no faucent, only controls that manage the flow of warm water from multiple spouts around the tub. A couple in need doesn't want to wait around too long for their bath.
Although, as he strikes the "warm" second, his eye catches the many, many other settings on the pad.] They control music from here?
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--Wait, no, don't start thinking like that. It's a touchy subject, even if one is trying to be understanding when it's typically not one's strength.
Quietly, he watches him tinker with the tub.]
Oh, thank the gods you're here, I would not have known what to do here. What's wrong with a proper, comprehensible faucet?
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[Taryon pokes at some of the settings. Smooth jazz plays as low lights appear at the bottom of the tub. Another dial turns those lights pink.
He snorts.] This color does not go well with the tiles.
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It doesn't, no. But perhaps if we...
[He steps back to the door where the light panel is, and after staring at it for a moment, pushes a button that lowers the light in the room. The mosaic designs become washed out by the dark, the pink light making the tub and part of a Taryon's face glow more aesthetically pleasing.]
Ah, yes. Better.
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Taryon rolls up his sleeves and sticks his arm into the half-full tub.][He pulls out his hand and flicks it.] How much salt did you put in there?
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The question snaps back to the moment, and he reaches for the bottle to show him how much he used. Maybe a quarter of it. It had been full before.]
This much?
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You're going to dry out my skin with all that salt! Good god, what if we went in there?! No, we have to redo this. We have to get rid of the water.
[He reaches for the plug, shooting his hand through a mound of soap, and pauses.]
But it was looking so nice...
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[He doesn't sound too particularly remorseful, as this doesn't seem too big of a deal aside from a few wasted minutes and water. He steps up beside him, and tentatively touches the back of his shoulder as he was bent over, running a consoling hand down his back, a little more ponderous than as casual as he normally would have done it.
He was...nervous.]
It will look just as nice, why would it not?
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It's...not that bad. We just have to be careful how long we're in there. [He turns on the water once more and stands. Like this, the hand on him is less nerve-wracking.] But next time, please read the instructions. There's a right way to pamper oneself.
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