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sinfucks2024-02-27 11:15 pm
synfluxmods) wrote in sinfucks2024-02-27 11:15 pm
Entry tags:
▶ 003. TEST DRIVE & SIMULATION #3
TEST DRIVE & SIMULATION #3
▶ 001. ARRIVAL / CAFETERIA.
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 to desire your normal life. When you awake, 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, your pod opens in a dim corridor with many others. Your new life is about to begin... whether you like it or not.
The pods drain their stasis fluid which wakens each Outsider. When Outsiders emerge from their pod in only their undergarments which have been supplied to them and head to a locker room in the medical bay, to find a towel to dry off with, a set of gray loungewear to wear as LILITH makes the final decision in organizing the Outsider to their rightful teams. 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 on the inside of 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 pod, 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, and feed 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 …
The system will give Outsiders one chance to provide a truthful answer and choose their username and civilian identity. Should they refuse to cooperate, the implant will download the answer directly from their brain (and give them a username or civilian name against their will). This questionnaire will then be posted on the network for all to view and reply to. Almost like an ice-breaker, if you will. LILITH wants all their newest recruits to learn about each other!
Outsiders will receive a quick brief about their situation: They will be told that the year is 2278, 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 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 10,000 KRYPTOS (about USD 66), 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.
Once they leave the medical bay, they’ll be able to grab a quick meal in the cafeteria and mingle with the other Outsiders just waking up. Today’s menu is oniku sashimi, miso soup, and ginger salad, all packed neatly in a food ration tray. Oniku is whale tail meat. Huh. There's been a whale theme going around here lately. Must be a coincidence... right?
That familiar, robotic voice is heard again:
"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, your pod opens in a dim corridor with many others. Your new life is about to begin... whether you like it or not.
The pods drain their stasis fluid which wakens each Outsider. When Outsiders emerge from their pod in only their undergarments which have been supplied to them and head to a locker room in the medical bay, to find a towel to dry off with, a set of gray loungewear to wear as LILITH makes the final decision in organizing the Outsider to their rightful teams. 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 on the inside of 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 pod, 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, and feed 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:
If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be and why?
The system will give Outsiders one chance to provide a truthful answer and choose their username and civilian identity. Should they refuse to cooperate, the implant will download the answer directly from their brain (and give them a username or civilian name against their will). This questionnaire will then be posted on the network for all to view and reply to. Almost like an ice-breaker, if you will. LILITH wants all their newest recruits to learn about each other!
Outsiders will receive a quick brief about their situation: They will be told that the year is 2278, 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 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 10,000 KRYPTOS (about USD 66), 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.
Once they leave the medical bay, they’ll be able to grab a quick meal in the cafeteria and mingle with the other Outsiders just waking up. Today’s menu is oniku sashimi, miso soup, and ginger salad, all packed neatly in a food ration tray. Oniku is whale tail meat. Huh. There's been a whale theme going around here lately. Must be a coincidence... right?
That familiar, robotic voice is heard again:
"Greetings, my name is SYNTHIA and I will be taking care of you today while the rest of the crew is busy handling a recent issue. Worry not, my children. You are in safe hands. Please enjoy your complimentary meal which LILITH has carefully procured for you all. You may then head to your quarters are explore our BASE using the map provided. This meal is a delicacy in some parts, so feel free to express your undying gratitude."
▶ 002. SUBJECT NOT FOUND.
Early in the morning on March 2nd, the power suddenly goes out. Outsiders may wake up to find that wake-up alarms never went off, the coffee machines don't work, and breakfast isn't ready in the cafeteria because of the sudden outage. Early risers may find themselves trapped in their team wings when automatic doors refuse to budge and those who are particularly unlucky may find themselves stuck in an elevator.
Within the hour, the power boots back up again and life on base returns mostly to normal. The only inconvenience seems to be a haphazardly thrown-together breakfast consisting of whatever could be made without power quickly. As the day goes on, observant characters may notice something amiss. They can catch some LILITH workers whispering to each other and there seem to be more agents in fancy suits roaming around.
If they find themselves in the right place, Outsiders may find that one of the many research labs on base is locked down and they won't be allowed to enter. If they ask one of the guards keeping watch, they will simply be told to move along. Asking some of the researchers or other workers in the area will reveal "something" happened during the power outage in the morning.
By evening, everyone's ocular implants will flash a quick notice:
Within the hour, the power boots back up again and life on base returns mostly to normal. The only inconvenience seems to be a haphazardly thrown-together breakfast consisting of whatever could be made without power quickly. As the day goes on, observant characters may notice something amiss. They can catch some LILITH workers whispering to each other and there seem to be more agents in fancy suits roaming around.
If they find themselves in the right place, Outsiders may find that one of the many research labs on base is locked down and they won't be allowed to enter. If they ask one of the guards keeping watch, they will simply be told to move along. Asking some of the researchers or other workers in the area will reveal "something" happened during the power outage in the morning.
By evening, everyone's ocular implants will flash a quick notice:
|| MISSING PERSON
Name: Dr. Tanaka Junichiro
Role: LILITH Researcher.
Specialty: Genetic Research (Native Species and Kaiju)
Details: Latest available security footage depicts Dr. Tanaka stationed in their lab at LILITH Research Base. At 0735hrs on the morning of 2 March, a power disturbance struck all LILITH networks, resulting in all security monitoring systems within the area going offline briefly. After this disturbance was resolved, Dr. Tanaka was reported missing from their designated station under mysterious circumstances. Other resources missing from the base include: Research files and various live and deceased specimens.
Any clues on Dr. Tanaka's whereabouts are to be surrendered to LILITH immediately. Dr. Tanaka's primary research involved DNA splicing and induced evolution. Any information or clues regarding them or their work is highly valued. It is our top objective to ensure the safe return of our valuable staff members. ||
▶ 003. CLAWS FOR CONCERN.
Shortly after the disappearance of Dr. Tanaka, Outsiders who wander the back alleys and keep an ear open will hear whispers of exotic animals and chimera being traded for meat, entertainment and pet ownership. Most of this talk will be heard near the biggest black market in Shinjuku, "Starlight X". It's a novelty within Neo Tokyo and word gets out quick, even if the residents are hush-hush about where they got their sources from. Photos of these hybrids show up on social media to the astonishment and skepticism of the citizens. To find Starlight X, Outsiders will have to travel underground, taking the term underground market quite literally. There is an entrance way in a nearby alley without too much security; with the lack of policemen, now, people might as well sell their illegal substances on the surface.
Once there, Outsiders will be able to discover a plethora of suspicious things for purchase: such as recreational drugs, performance-enhancing nanobots, assorted weapons (some legal and some not), unlabeled meats, the … services of suspicious people, and a whole lot of junk. While visiting Starlight X, some of these creature hybrids even get loose and need to be captured before they draw too much attention. LILITH advises Outsiders to turn in any such specimens, live or dead, or put in a report immediately upon seeing them. Withholding such information or keeping a specimen for yourself may result in unwanted consequences if LILITH comes to find out.
These hybrids are generally small and mostly harmless, no doubt being traded for companionship and novelty. Cats that look like small lions or tigers, canaries with peacock feathers, frogs with wings, and so on (players may use their imagination).
Any further questions regarding Starlight X can be asked below.
Once there, Outsiders will be able to discover a plethora of suspicious things for purchase: such as recreational drugs, performance-enhancing nanobots, assorted weapons (some legal and some not), unlabeled meats, the … services of suspicious people, and a whole lot of junk. While visiting Starlight X, some of these creature hybrids even get loose and need to be captured before they draw too much attention. LILITH advises Outsiders to turn in any such specimens, live or dead, or put in a report immediately upon seeing them. Withholding such information or keeping a specimen for yourself may result in unwanted consequences if LILITH comes to find out.
These hybrids are generally small and mostly harmless, no doubt being traded for companionship and novelty. Cats that look like small lions or tigers, canaries with peacock feathers, frogs with wings, and so on (players may use their imagination).
Any further questions regarding Starlight X can be asked below.
▶ 004. THE SAPPHIRE ROOM.
It becomes such a problem that LILITH can no longer ignore it. It's clear that someone - or a group of someones - have gotten their hands on LILITH's priceless specimens and data, and are testing the waters on what they can get away with. Allowing the public to get their hands on the smaller hybrids is one thing. According to word around the street, there's going to be an auction on the night of the 5th, and that's where the larger, more dangerous hybrids will be sold. Some even say you'll be able to find man-made monsters.
Closer to that date, LILITH decides to strike back to avoid further humiliation. With the help of their skilled informants, they've managed to secure the location, but ordering the Outsiders to storm the place like a military strike team just isn't an option. Said location is in a popular, bustling part of town, where the locals wine and dine. That would only cause panic and distrust amongst the people. The approach that's needed today ... is something more clandestine.
Outsiders will be briefed on the disguise and cover identity provided to them by LILITH, and temporarily granted a Style Upgrade to their chip to enable them to dress the part. (Players may make up their own cover identity for this mission. )
Hybrids within the auction include larger, more dangerous chimeras such as lion snapping-turtles, alligator-hippos, and snapping bears (among others). Smaller chimeras such as winged rabbits and seven-headed-snakes can also be found.
At the center of it all … the main event: An actual Kaiju hybrid. At the center of the stage is a miniature version of the Shachimon whales that had sewn chaos across the sea just a month before. She’s much smaller than her full sized counterparts, only about as large as a dog. It’s likely she’s been bred down with native marine life to make her more tameable and less able to completely topple a boat with her strength.
This is what the auction-goers had come to see and hopefully purchase today. What they want a half-Kaiju for remains to be seen, but LILITH is not about to let just anyone get their hands on their specimens.
Outsiders undertaking this mission may wrangle and capture the hybrid creatures (most of which will be aggressive) and fight off or capture the auction staff. Most of the staff will be armed with guns and cybernetic enhancements (e.g. bionic arms with lasers attached). They can be questioned but not all of them are happy to answer. Unfortunately, the ringleaders will slip away in the chaos before anyone can capture them. A message from Captain Yamakawa projects into the implant late into the night (and if you were sleeping by this hour of 2 a.m, you're about to be woken up.)
Closer to that date, LILITH decides to strike back to avoid further humiliation. With the help of their skilled informants, they've managed to secure the location, but ordering the Outsiders to storm the place like a military strike team just isn't an option. Said location is in a popular, bustling part of town, where the locals wine and dine. That would only cause panic and distrust amongst the people. The approach that's needed today ... is something more clandestine.
|| MISSION: Infiltration of The Sapphire Room
LOCATION: The Sapphire Room, in Roppongi. A popular and exclusive nightclub serving a lavish experience to those who can afford it.
DETAILS: Sources reveal that The Sapphire Room, while a fully functioning club, has also been playing host to suspicious activities and trading in their exclusive underground rooms. An illegal auction is currently being held at the end of this week, which happens to be their Couples' Night. To gain access into this auction, Outsiders are to pair up and maintain appropriate cover. Information about your disguises have been downloaded into your chips.
OBJECTIVE:
✖ Infiltrate the secret auction occurring in The Sapphire Room as a pair.
✖ Disrupt the auction using any means possible.
✖ Capture hybrid specimens and surrender them to LILITH.
✖ Capture the perpetrators for questioning.
✖ Obtain any research data available and surrender it to LILITH. ||
Outsiders will be briefed on the disguise and cover identity provided to them by LILITH, and temporarily granted a Style Upgrade to their chip to enable them to dress the part. (Players may make up their own cover identity for this mission. )
Hybrids within the auction include larger, more dangerous chimeras such as lion snapping-turtles, alligator-hippos, and snapping bears (among others). Smaller chimeras such as winged rabbits and seven-headed-snakes can also be found.
At the center of it all … the main event: An actual Kaiju hybrid. At the center of the stage is a miniature version of the Shachimon whales that had sewn chaos across the sea just a month before. She’s much smaller than her full sized counterparts, only about as large as a dog. It’s likely she’s been bred down with native marine life to make her more tameable and less able to completely topple a boat with her strength.
This is what the auction-goers had come to see and hopefully purchase today. What they want a half-Kaiju for remains to be seen, but LILITH is not about to let just anyone get their hands on their specimens.
Outsiders undertaking this mission may wrangle and capture the hybrid creatures (most of which will be aggressive) and fight off or capture the auction staff. Most of the staff will be armed with guns and cybernetic enhancements (e.g. bionic arms with lasers attached). They can be questioned but not all of them are happy to answer. Unfortunately, the ringleaders will slip away in the chaos before anyone can capture them. A message from Captain Yamakawa projects into the implant late into the night (and if you were sleeping by this hour of 2 a.m, you're about to be woken up.)
"This is unacceptable. Angels of LILITH, please be on the lookout for the organizers of this crime. This kind of theft is unforgivable. We are investigating their identities, but any further information regarding those that got away is appreciated."
▶ 005. SIMULATION.
While Outsider are given some time to rest and recover from their battle in February, it doesn't take long for their training to kick back up again. Outsiders will be summoned to the simulation room and instructed to put on their LILITH-issued plugsuits. They will be paired or put into groups for another battle simulation. After being ushed into the training grounds, the room will turn pitch black and a briefing sheet will be projected from their eye implant.
They will be able to access the briefing sheet at any time during the simulation by simply asking to see it. After each Outsider has read the mission brief, the simulation will begin, and they will find themselves in Singapore. The city is lively and all seems well and ordinary with civilians going about their daily lives. The weather is warm and sunny and it's a beautiful day.
Suddenly, screams break out from a nearby Hawker centre. A small group of civilians go on a rampage and begin chasing after the crowds. They move quickly but awkwardly as if they aren't in total control of their bodies. They try to attack other people in any way possible and cannot listen to reason. Rendering the disturbed civilians dead or unconscious will result in a large hornet emerging from a melted hole somewhere on the victim's body. The hornets must be destroyed before they possess another host. It isn't just the humans that can be taken over: Some of the suzume-bachi will infect the local animal life as well.
If you look around, there are still many people running around and curious onlookers trying to catch a peek inside. With so many hosts milling around, the suzume-bachi could be anywhere among us.
They will be able to access the briefing sheet at any time during the simulation by simply asking to see it. After each Outsider has read the mission brief, the simulation will begin, and they will find themselves in Singapore. The city is lively and all seems well and ordinary with civilians going about their daily lives. The weather is warm and sunny and it's a beautiful day.
Suddenly, screams break out from a nearby Hawker centre. A small group of civilians go on a rampage and begin chasing after the crowds. They move quickly but awkwardly as if they aren't in total control of their bodies. They try to attack other people in any way possible and cannot listen to reason. Rendering the disturbed civilians dead or unconscious will result in a large hornet emerging from a melted hole somewhere on the victim's body. The hornets must be destroyed before they possess another host. It isn't just the humans that can be taken over: Some of the suzume-bachi will infect the local animal life as well.
If you look around, there are still many people running around and curious onlookers trying to catch a peek inside. With so many hosts milling around, the suzume-bachi could be anywhere among us.
█ █ █ MONSTER DEBRIEF SHEET:
NAME: SUZUME-BACHI
HEIGHT: 7.6-12 in.
WEIGHT: 2 kg
CLASS: UNKNOWN, CANNOT BE CLASSED.
THREAT LEVEL: MODERATE-SEVERE
LOCATION: Tropical climates with high humidity
ABILITIES: Parasitic and will enter a “host body” and try to gain control. Capable of entering other wildlife.
WEAKNESS: Ice (they cannot operate in cold climate), physical attacks.
EXTRA NOTES: Once they gain control over a lifeform, only rendering the host body unconscious will allow them to expose themselves. It is advised to kill them prior to have the entering ones body. The process of them latching on to take control is extremely invasive as they melt through skin to gain access to a body. Possessed bodies will behave aggressively and will try to lure others into areas of nesting for the SUZUME-BACHI. Highly protective of their hive and their “QUEEN”— please approach hives with caution and do not approach alone.
█ █ █ MISSION OBJECTIVE:
✖ Identify humans and creatures being controlled by the SUZUME-BACHI.
✖ Rescue civilians and clear all wildlife of being possessed by the SUZUME-BACHI.
✖ Help move civilians to underground safety bunker.
✖ Protect safe zones from SUZUME-BACHI.
EXTRA NOTES: Every SUZUME-BACHI killed equals 1 KILL point, freeing those who are under its control is 1 ASSIST point, and getting civilians to the shelter will give 1 RESCUE point.
█ █ █ ATTACHED PHOTO:
▶ 006. AFTERWORD.
Welcome to our third TDM! All TDM threads are game canon; characters who don't app will be glitched out of this world. As TDM will act as the event, existing characters are heavily encouraged to participate. We encourage this format for top levels: CHARACTER | CANON | CURRENT / NEW CHARACTER. '
There are currently 23 available player slots. New players are welcome to use this TDM to get samples for when APPLICATIONS open.
None of the prompts suit your fancy? Feel free to check out our main base and locations page and make up your own prompts!
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.
Please note that all tags in this log will count for 2 reward points each and will count towards March AC.
There are currently 23 available player slots. New players are welcome to use this TDM to get samples for when APPLICATIONS open.
None of the prompts suit your fancy? Feel free to check out our main base and locations page and make up your own prompts!
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.
Please note that all tags in this log will count for 2 reward points each and will count towards March AC.
no subject
We're here on a mission, so we're pretending to have fun - so I'll do my best. I know how to focus on my work.
[ He's well aware that he looks good, handsome with his hair down and in his face, his suit complimenting him well. Dark eyes flick over Tsurumaru before he nods his head, turning his gaze away for a moment.
Is he... Taking a selfie...? ]
no subject
Why pretend when you can just have fun...
(He holds up his head and shows off his new look, though. He wants to see what Aki thinks and... he just looks away? Takes a selfie?)
Did you just take a picture?
no subject
[ Like some kind of doting parent... Turning back, though, he ignores the pink of his cheeks. ]
Yes. To send to Denji.
no subject
(They're on the same team so of course they know each other.)
Shall we pick up something for him before we leave him home alone?
(What is this parent couples night do we need a get a babysitter sort of talk.......)
no subject
[ Aki is imagining the two of them together and getting hives. ]
No? If he needs something, he's able to go to the cafeteria.
[ Or Aki will have made him a bento or something already, don't question him ]
no subject
(How disappointing. He would have ordered Denji some cakes and other sweets... oh, well! Denji's loss now.)
Well then, shall we get ready?
(It's beginning to get dark out. They should head off to their assignment soon.)
no subject
He shakes his head, turning his attention away from the texting and back to Tsurumaru. They're supposed to be dating, right? So...
He offers out his arm. ]
Let's go.
no subject
Instead, he's happy to skip over to Aki's side and hook his arm with Aki's. He leans in far closer than they need to right now when they aren't even on duty but he's hugging him, practically hanging on at his side and looking up at him with bright, pale gold eyes and a playful smile, )
Anywhere you wish~
no subject
Is this what Denji meant when they talked? Ah, well.
Drawing Tsuru closer, as if they're actually on a date, he starts to lead him to where the mission briefing is directing them. ]
Try not to be too embarrassing.
no subject
(Clearly. He's teasing but he'll behave until they get closer to the Sapphire Room. They may look like an ordinary couple just walking leisurely in the evening but once the room comes into view and the briefing on their implant signals they've more or less arrived, he squeezes Aki's arm and starts to pull him ahead, )
Come on! There it is.
(He sounds excited, like he can't wait to get there. Looking back at Aki, he smiles. It may look innocent and cheerful enough but... maybe he looks a little too excited? Like he's having too much fun?)
no subject
Aki lets himself be lead, falling into a roll, pushing himself to stand up tall and act like some kind of sure, secure person. He's never been on any kind of date like this before, but... He can manage. He can seem as dangerous as possible.
Tugging him further, he sighs softly. ]
Let's get closer, okay? Maybe there's somewhere we can sit.
no subject
I'm thirsty.
( He wants something from the bar. Aki can probably hear him smiling as he starts making his demands. Is he being entitled? Demanding? A little spoiled? Yes.)
And somewhere quiet. (He has himself so close to Aki in the middle of the floor that they're starting to get some looks. Who is this couple starting to show off some PDA in the middle of the club? He lets out a light, bubbly sort of laugh. Isn't he being cute, right now? ) Where no one can see us~
(Get him his drink and lead him away, Aki!!!)
no subject
I'll get you one.
[ His hand lifts gently, reaching to push a strand of Tsuru's hair from his face, gently, as if he is utterly besotted with him. ]
Let's fine you somewhere to sit and I'll get you whatever you'd like.
[ Cheeks a little red, he guides him off to one corner, where it is quiet and a little darker. Damnit. ]
no subject
Even if he can't see it in the dimly lit club with its low, flashy lights, he can feel how warm Aki is. Is he embarrassed? That's so cute. He really does have a cute date tonight, even if it's all just a game. He lets himself be led but along the way, he makes no effort to move out of anyone's way. He brushes against people, bumping into them, and really, he acts like he owns the place which only starts to attract looks of both annoyance and curiosity.
He settles into their corner and when Aki leaves to go get their drinks, he leans in after him as if he's just trying to keep him as close to him for as long as possible. He doesn't let him go until the last possible moment and when he does he... pouts? Like he already misses him.)
Don't take too long, darling~!
(Did he have to say that so loud? Well, he has to let everyone know that he's taken. Humans always love things they can't have...)
I'm already lonely.
(... even if they look easy to take. Especially if they're beautiful. Like Tsurumaru, sitting prettily and all alone while Aki leaves to get drinks.)
no subject
(Maybe he does).
Before they part, before Aki leaves to get the drink, he brings Tsuru's hand to his mouth and leaves a kiss on his fingers, playing up the audience they have; they've attracted attention, might as well enjoy it and use it to their advantage. ]
I won't.
[ Slipping away, he goes to get them both a drink, something simple and easy, letting his eyes drink in the audience as they do. Nothing stands out right now, but he's on edge, tucking his hair behind his ear before he lifts their glasses and makes their way back over. Settling down beside Tsurumaru, he passes one glass over. ]
Here. Have you seen anyone you like?
[ Anyone suspicious, he means. ]
no subject
And for just a moment, he breaks character. He watches in what feels like slow motion when Aki raises his hand to his lips and presses a kiss to his fingers. He goes still and stares, frozen with surprise. It isn't just the kiss. It's the look on Aki's face and without realizing it, he sits up a little straighter, holds his head up a little higher, and... its like he wants to look better now.
(Maybe his nature as a "beautiful thing" makes him want to be cherished.)
(And if he looks his best, he'll be loved.)
He watches wordlessly as Aki leaves, pale gold eyes following him all the way to the bar... and its like he suddenly remembers he should be keeping watch of the others in the club. He relaxes some, sinking back into the plush upholstery of the couch and turns his attention to the many patrons. He looks comfortable like this and he has an air to him that feels expensive and important. He has a couple of patrons eyeing him and one even comes over to strike a conversation. He smiles politely but acts disinterested. He's going to make this stranger work harder for his full attention, especially now that Aki is back.)
— Here he is.
(He was just talking about Aki and he slides over to sit closer to Aki whenever he decides to settle in. If he'll let him, he'll try to slip under Aki's arm so he can be held,)
Only you.
(He looks up at Aki. The only one here he has eyes for is him and the guest who had come to talk to them seems to calculate what's going on to make their next move. He asks if they came together and what brought them out for the night... he's never seen them before.
And while Tsurumaru could answer... he's happy to let Aki speak for him now that he's here.)
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He doesn't notice Tsurumaru's reaction to his kiss, letting himself focus on the drink. He needs something to steady himself, and when he's finally back in his position beside his partner he feels as though he's in a better state to look around the room and try and find some lead, some kind of target. He doesn't know what to expect - undercover missions weren't necessary when you were hunting devils, not people - but at least he's prepared for a fight.
Not that he thinks blowing up the room is a good idea, but...
Careful, he lets one arm slink around Tsurumaru's back, lounging as he watches the people gather around them. He can only imagine it's because of Tsuru; he looks so handsome, a prize indeed, gathering the exact kind of attention that Aki had been prepared for. It might help them unpick some of this web if they're able to start poking holes through conversation.
Hair hanging around his face, making him look his young age, Aki smiles. ]
I wanted to celebrate Tsuru-kun, of course.
[ His fingers touch idly at the back of his neck - to anyone else, it would seem possessive, but it's Aki checking in on him. If he moves away, shifts, he'll know to offer him a little more support, consider turning the conversation elsewhere. He is attentive. He holds him, playing up the act, trying not to let his embarrassment and nerves shine through. ]
A few drinks for his good work, isn't that right?
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The eyes turn back on Tsurumaru and he seems comfortable under everyone's attention, smiling to meet their curious looks. Celebrate him? What has he done so well? Another guest comes over, probably a friend with the earlier one, and the first asks if it's a special occasion. A special date like an anniversary? A birthday?)
I'm going to be in a show.
(And he strikes up an easy conversation. He's been training for years, getting ready for a debut, and soon, his role would be announced. Aki is apparently something like his agent even if they seem far closer than a pair in a business arrangement. But he talks more about his upcoming role in the sense that his lips are sealed. He can't announce it. It's a secret. But everyone will see soon and when they do he asks them so prettily if they'll come watch him. )
You promised me more than just some drinks.
(They're here for something more and the two guests exchange quiet looks between each other. Maybe they're communicating with some implant but Tsurumaru doesn't care. He isn't reading them at all! He's only paying attention to Aki it seems and he tilts his head to look up at him,)
Are you still feeling stressed? Relax, darling. (Eyes shifting to Aki's pocket where he knows a pack of cigarettes will be and then back at Aki,) You've helped me so much. I'll be sure to take care of you.
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Tsurumaru is more comfortable here than he is, but that's fine, too. Let him be the leader in this particular mission, since - well.
Smiling, as if he is a doting husband, he lets his fingers brush against his hair gently, soothing and tender, as if obsessed, as if the only thing in the world he cares about is curled up against him right now. ]
I know. I'll make sure that you get what you want, you have my word.
[ Said softly, but loud enough that the people around them can hear it. His fingers keep brushing, idle now, not even thinking about it, and he hums a little. ]
It's been a long day, but this is helping.
[ His free hand reaches and opens his suit jacket, so that Tsurumaru can reach inside to get the cigarettes. It would help if he had been able to have one before they'd come here, so he's glad for the chance to have it now. ]
You're already taking care of me, aren't you? What are you after now?
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What a nice smile, he thinks, watching Aki. To think earlier this evening he'd been so grumpy about the whole thing. He seems to be enjoying himself now and that makes him happy too. It's better when they're both having fun.
When he moves, it's slow and lazy. He doesn't want to move from his place at Aki's side but to reach over and really tend to him, he has to shift his weight. He moves deliberately, hand brushing against his chest as he reaches for the pack, opens it, and holds it up to Aki's mouth so he can take one. When he takes it, he does it again, this time reaching for a lighter... Aki wouldn't have to move at all. Tsurumaru completely takes care of him.)
It's a surprise.
(The thing he's after and when they can't take being ignored anymore, when they're so drawn in by the show and hungry that they can't take it anymore, one of the marks laughs that by the way they're acting, Aki and Tsurumaru are probably more likely to sneak off behind stage than stick around to see what's being sold on it.
The other teases that it looks like the two of them are ready to get a room but if they go now, they'll miss the show that is due to start... soon.)
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Obviously, there's the mission; he can lose himself in that easily enough, but this act is almost too good, and it makes him feel a little embarrassed under the light of the club. He's not used to this kind of intimacy with someone else, with leaning in and pretending at some kind of romance, as if they're really devoted to one another. That's not who Aki is, not someone he has been in his life thus far, and not someone he's going to be allowed to be in the future, either. Not when his life is being ripped away from him every single time he fights.
He's not a man you can share a future with, because his future is set in stone.
Taking the cigarette into his mouth, he hums absently. ]
A surprise? I bet I can guess.
[ Turning his head, he looks toward the stage, his eyes narrowing. It won't be long until the main event, and he knows that; they have to make sure that they're both believable and paying attention. No in between. ]
Don't get disappointed if it isn't as good as you hoped.
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They've played their parts more than just well. There isn't anyone who would doubt them now and with the main event coming, they can relax for just a moment. He settles in back at Aki's side and only smiles and nods as their new friends begin to prattle away, making conversation. He's happy to entertain them but there's no reason to be so over the top anymore.
(He is well aware of how he's been behaving and thinks Aki could use a bit of a break, too.)
The auction goes underway and it opens easily enough. The first item is a a rooster that has been spliced with some other exotic bird he doesn't recognize. The plumage is bright, it has a long and colorful tail, and the auctioneer calls out that this particular item is meant to look like a creature from divine stories. It's a beautiful specimen to open with and then it moves on to... other things. Works of art, treasures that have been stolen and smuggled from other lands, and the occasional hybrid sprinkled in for excitement. The items get more valuable and Tsurumaru places a hand on Aki's arm, squeezing it every now and then to get him to bid for him.
If Aki trusts his cues, he'll notice that just like he'd drawn in eyes at the club and wrapped some of the guests around his finger... Tsurumaru is good at reading a room. He'll help Aki bid just high enough each time to look serious but signal for him to stop so others can outbid them. It's like he knows when others are going to drop money and exactly how much.
Finally, the star of the show is displayed: A miniature kaiju that looks shocking familiar and Tsurumaru squeezes Aki's arm. This time, it isn't a cue, though. He's genuinely surprised to see it on stage. He's speechless and all around them, patrons gasp and cheer and laugh and begin to throw up bids.)
That's...
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It's a poor habit and he knows it - he's known it from the moment that he was first given one, when his partnership with Himeno had begun to develop into something with real trust in it. He shouldn't have ever let himself take the first drag, but here he is now, clinging to it as a source of solace and a reminder of the person that he's lost because of his own lack of ability. If he had been a little stronger, if he had been able to stand with Denji...
Shaking his head, he focuses on the auction.
He follows Tsurumaru's instincts, does as he's told, but leans forward when the creature comes on the stage. He recognises it, of course, how could he not? He had killed the matriarch, after all, had landed the final hit and been celebrated for his KO. Reaching out, he grabs at Tsurumaru's hand and squeezes his fingers gently.
This is what they came for, isn't it? This is what LILITH was after. ]
What an incredible creature.
[ What are they going to do? The cigarette is hanging from his lips, and he's awed. ]
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He manages to bring it in, regain his calm and he gives Aki's hand a firm squeeze. There are other LILITh agents also recovering from the shock. They're beginning to raise their hands and bid. The numbers are going higher and higher and before they get left in the dust he whispers to Aki, slipping back into character... but sharper,)
I want it.
(Their friends laugh. This is the sort of reaction they expect. Of course, how can anyone resist such a prize?
And in the split second it will take Aki to raise his hand to make a bid.... their implants will deliver the signal they need. The last criteria are highlighted for them to read,,
✖ Capture hybrid specimens and surrender them to LILITH.
✖ Capture the perpetrators for questioning.)
Now.
(Now is their time to make their move with everyone else.)
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Aki knows they're here for a purpose, and it settles onto him like a weighted blanket - no more games, no more messing around with Tsurumaru. There's no pretending now, because this is what they need to bring back to LILITH and the base. He hadn't imagined that anyone would risk taking one of the smaller kaiju, not with how dangerous they were, but clearly people in this City are a little...
Crazy. He understands that. He's been called it before himself.
Leaning in, he pretends as if he's about to kiss Tsuru's cheek before he speaks softly in his ear. ]
I'll bid, but if the worst happens I saw the way into the back rooms by the bar. The Future can help me with that.
[ A few seconds into the future will be long enough for him to take whatever might be guarding the thing later, and his arm tugs Tsurumaru closer as he turns back to the stage. ]
Bid to your heart's content, my love.
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