Week 1

[linkupmods]

WEEK 1

AWAKENING.

You were taken. That much is obvious when you come to your senses and see the world around you. You feel a little groggy – just how long were you asleep for? – but you should otherwise be alert, enough to realize that the surrounding area is unfamiliar to you. You are in front of what appears to be a modern dormitory (or, well, just a large building, for anyone who's never quite seen anything like it before). The area is decorated with balloons, streamers and other miscellaneous decorations with a giant "WELCOME" banner spanning across the front entrance.

You have a moment to look at the people around you. Strangers. No one here looks familiar to you whatsoever. Furthermore, it feels like there is something stirring in your heart, waiting to be brought to light, waiting to speak your truth...

You might need more time to let that sink in, but that time is interrupted by a voice.

"Oh wow it actually worked- Um, I mean! Hello!"

The speaker is a short, plain-looking young woman with dark hair in a bob cut, her hand raised to catch everyone’s attention.


"Welcome to Sunset City! The goddess Braphine needs your help, so she’s called all of you here to fix this place. Fortunately, it should only take about three months of cooperation, I think? Probably. So...

Welcome to your new home away from home!"

The young woman - Mina - goes on to explain the current situation: everyone here has been summoned by the goddess of community and connection, Braphine, in order to rebuild the connections of the people of Sunset City. Lately, the people have become more and more isolated from each other, getting into fights and arguments over the pettiest of details.

While Mina doesn’t know the details, exactly, what she does know is that the goddess instructed her to prepare these dorms for residents ("that’s you!") and to more or less act as her representative. Mina will also note that everyone’s dorm rooms have already been labeled with their names, and that the goddess has deigned to gift some in particular with the means to defend themselves - which is to say, when characters do eventually make it to their dorm rooms, those who did not arrive with one will find their gifted weapon waiting for them with their name handwritten on a tag attached to the item.

For now, people can use their phones to access an app that will allow them to see any currently open commissions - complete the commissions, and they will not only help the community, but also earn money and rewards! And if your character doesn’t know how to operate a phone, well... Mina will patiently guide them through the process, don’t you worry.

If your character has any other questions, they may talk to her at the party, or otherwise contact her via phone!

WELCOME PARTY.

After speaking with Mina, you may have an idea of what you're supposed to be doing here. Things don't have to be all work, though, because despite the state of the city, you are allowed to have fun and get to know one another.

Mina has graciously set up a welcome party for everyone, which will have refreshments inside and outside the dorm, and games available for people to partake in throughout the day at their own leisure! Indoors, there are a variety of board games for you to mess around with. Outside, there's a pool, basketball and tennis court set up with appropriate equipment. Of course, you aren't limited to just those, as there's a small open field at the dormitory where you can play ball in other ways, too. Interestingly enough, there are also some training dummies available for you to use...maybe to put your weapons to use?

Don't forget about the arts and crafts section inside, either, where nametags are laid out for you to create your own (or others')! You can also use this section to create decorations for the dormitory, your room, or even something to give to a fellow dorm mate.

EXPLORE.

You're free to explore the town, too, at your own leisure, to get used to your new home. The city is bustling with people, but for some reason, many of the residents don't have good vibes. They seem unsettled, unhappy for whatever reason. It's not pleasant, but nobody will go out of their way to bother you, unless you trip into them or initiate pvp yourself.…The random trash scattered around various parts of town might make it hard to avoid the former, though. Be careful not to trip on a banana peel, a stray canister, or even something as large as a throwaway tire on the side of the street. The residents will not react positively if you try to interact with them in any capacity.

That being said, for all that the city seems gloomy at a first glance, there is surprisingly an advertisement for a go-kart racing contest coming up in three weeks, and the go-karts are two seaters! The flyers posted around town read that this is a competition for pairs; the driver's seat (left) has a gas pedal, and the passenger's seat (right) has the brake. Looks like the events are being hosted by one of the popular arcades in town, too. Even so, there are prizes for first, second, and third place; the grand prize consists of a good amount of cash, a trophy, and one (1) free night at one of the hotels in Carnation Court for both people. Why not team up with someone and enter the competition, or just find some people to practice with?

(OOC: Please see our OOC section for sign up details.)

NETWORK.

So, about those phones...there's a non-zero chance that you may post your live thoughts onto the network without meaning to. Likewise, you may also unwillingly comment on someone's post with your thoughts while reading it. Yes, this phone grabs from your psyche, for better or worse! Well, mostly worse, but oh well. There isn't a fix for this "bug" just yet, but you can still use the network intentionally! Just don't be surprised if you get a bunch of notifications for a post you didn't even know you made.

COMMISSIONS

TOP MODELS

A local boutique is looking for people to model their clothing, but they plan on taking group photos instead of single shots. This will be a summer-themed photoshoot with summer outfits (not necessarily swimsuits!), and the photographer (who is cranky, sorry) plans on encouraging all kinds of interactions between their subjects for some unique photos. Participants will be able to keep the outfits they wore for the photoshoot! How nice.

CLEANUP

You've seen the questionable state of the city streets. Should you feel like doing your part by cleaning up some of the trash, you may find something valuable hidden in all the rubble. And who knows? Maybe some of the residents might actually respond kindly to your efforts... (Cleaning up can unearth things like jewelry; collector's items; small, old electronics -- just to give you an idea! Go wild.)

PVP ENABLED

Basketball, volleyball, soccer match anyone? Monopoly? Uno? Or, better yet, a sparring match with your fellow dorm mates…? Whatever you feel up for, Mina would like residents to get some friendly ("friendly") competition going in the spirit of getting to know one another.

LEAVE YOUR MARK

The arts and crafts area has a large paper canvas taped to one of the walls with a "DRAW ON ME!" post-it stuck to it. There's a lot of room to be creative with this, and yes, you will get paid for just decorating the dorms a little bit through this commission!

OOC

READ ME!!!!

• Welcome to your event log! Currently, Personas and Elements are NOT in play but you have your weapons with you regardless. These things will be unlocked when we introduce the Nekyia in Week 2.
  
• Please use the OOC PLOTTING POST for all plotting purposes. Please do not plot in Discord.
  
• If you would like to sign up for the Go-Kart Contest, please fill out the form and submit it here! There will be a follow up to this in a Week 4 mini event. :)
  
• Furthermore, we have a very big series of events we are planning to do in later weeks. We will OOCly give details and open signups early in Week 2, with the introduction of the Nekyia. Keep an eye out for that as well!
  

ic comm | inboxes | ooc comm | full nav

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Comments

[beautifulknight]

[ Argenti's expression seems to be caught somewhere between sheepishness and some bits of amusement as well. Consider it the embodiment of 'ehe?'

Speaking of sparring, he is truly looking forward to future matches for certain. ]

I believe that is reasonable, considering we had just arrived. How beautiful is it, the spontaneous nature of life...

[ Thus, off they go indeed! Time to make their way on over to the markets... ]

But, it is alright. I believe the basics shall work just fine. And, I will not be anticipating you to sing or detail their existence with the same fervor that I do in regards to the ever-brilliant Idrila!

[bloodweapon]

[That last part gets a scoff from Fray.]

I should hope not. I have little reason to cherish them so when their followers have caused all sorts of problems.

[So the easiest place to start is with...]

Halone, the Fury. She is the guardian of the city-state of Ishgard, known for her fierce power in battle and dedication to her people. Her followers are a zealous lot; most of the city-state worships her and they seek out "heretics" who would side with the dragons... at least, they did, before my student put an end to that war. Still, they justify their actions with Her name, and have killed many for being "heretics" even without proof.

[beautifulknight]

[ Oh...that is quite unpleasant indeed.

Argenti is kind of making a face at that, unable to help it. ]

Is that so...?

[ ...he's, hm. Argenti thought that it would be perhaps, something fairly normal things he might hear about them. But, that doesn't so happen to be the case at all. Such is life, though. There are those who can be unpleasant in their faith, to the point that people suffer, and even be twisted by it. It isn't like he hasn't witnessed the result of that either, so he does not reject the mere thought of it. ]

I see...that's, quite terrible, actually. And honestly rather quite barbaric of them. I had no idea that your student managed to put an end to an entire war that they created? Or that you had a student at all. That must have been quite a feat, as wars, such as they are...are not easy to stop by one's lonesome. Even if they are initiated by ill, misbegotten motivations.

[ Which seems obvious, but some people might not understand that. ]

[bloodweapon]

[Fray nods at that, pausing a moment to consider how to explain his student...]

The student I teach is the Warrior of Light, an incredibly powerful person blessed with Hydaelyn's light. With this, he is immensely powerful - this isn't the first time he's intervened to stop a war. As for Hydaelyn... I suppose she could be called a goddess as well, though much less is known about her. I've heard the Warrior of Light was able to talk with her at some points.

[But Hydaelyn is a whole other can of worms than the Twelve, so this is getting a bit off-topic. Regardless, it is an explanation for just how powerful the Warrior of Light is and how he could turn the tide of battle.]

Though the people of Ishgard have begun to examine the actions of those working in Halone's name, it will undoubtedly be awhile yet before they can change entirely. My student has faith that they will root out those who would use Halone's name for their cruel actions.

[beautifulknight]

[ Argenti perks up a little at hearing this. Interesting! The Warrior of Light...? What an inspiring name. This man no doubt must have committed many other great deeds, which is a presumption, but come on with a name like that and what Fray has said of him? Hero material for certain.

And, the fact that Fray has managed to guide someone like that so skillfully...even if this individual has been blessed, he thinks that too is incredible. ]

I must grant you thanks for the bit of background on this Warrior of Light...it seems you've taught him well.

[ He will simply say, relatively quickly, and allow the topic to move onwards. ]

Even with great power backing him, it must be quite hard, if any of them endeavor to try to escape from detection. But, he does seem up to the task! As for those who may be slower to come around...is it because of the great influence these followers in particular hold? Or is it just commonplace for many who follow the Twelve?

[bloodweapon]

[Fray simply nods at the first part; he has taught the Warrior of Light well, but it's not like he's the one who can be thanked for all of the Warrior's achievements. Still, that point aside, he's content to move on to Argenti's questions.]

I wouldn't say it's commonplace for the followers of the Twelve to be so cruel. Most go about their lives thanking the Twelve or worshiping them without issue. Those of Halone's favor are different in that the religion is wide-spread throughout Ishgard; unlike in the Eorzean city-states, where worship of the Twelve is varied. Though each city-state has a guardian deity like Ishgard has Halone, worship of these gods is not as frequent or organized.

[So basically it's just a lot of people in power using it to do terrible things vs the entire religion being bad.]

[beautifulknight]

[ What a relief! Argenti is not the person to pessimistically presume that it is one way or another, though he is certainly prepared for the possibility. As much as he endeavors to spread positivity wherever he goes, his head is not fully in the clouds due to his previous experiences...

ALSO WHAT A RELIEF THAT FRAY IS STILL ALIVE, WOW!!! (but the scare was funny, negl) ]

I see! So it's a situation where truly it's a gathering of certain evildoers, rather than an overall problem for the populace.

I am most glad that even if people are acting in bad faith [ pun not intended ] that there are many more who are not. With those like yourself and this Warrior of Light, I believe the populace have nothing to fear.

Though, it does make me curious...is it the situation with Halone's followers that was the crux of you desiring to take up that mantle of being a Dark Knight to protect others?

[bloodweapon]

[i exist for the shenanigans and i'm glad you enjoyed(?) them!!]

Precisely. Everyone is very lucky that they can rely on him.

[He pointedly sidesteps his own involvement there, but it's the last part that gets him to pause. Like he has to think about what led him down this path in the first place.]

...Aye, it was. Seeing what they were willing to do to root out "heretics" even if it meant killing innocents... I wanted to protect people from that fate. So I sought greater power that could help me in my goal and I arrived here.

[It's the truth, which is why it's so uncomfortable to admit. But there's no sense in lying about it, and it isn't as though it's a bad thing for Argenti to know about it. So here we are anyway. Fray shakes his head.]

[beautifulknight]

[ crying!!!

Though, Argenti arches an eyebrow when Fray evades remarking on himself. But, he doesn't address it; he thinks he can understand. That humility of his is something familiar, almost like a reflection of his own, at times. Even if he wishes to say Fray should, at the least, acknowledge his own efforts as well.

Perhaps, he still can, but as he mulls on how he wants to phrase that, now or later, there is something else he thinks worth addressing immediately. Words that Argenti is certain mean much to communicate for one reason or another. ]

...Considering it seems that only two are mainly dealing with the problem, even if one is being assisted by another higher being, I don't find it wrong for you to wish to have gathered more power to champion your cause!

I wish it weren't so as well, but I can only consider your efforts noble...and I believe that more success is bound to find you too in these endeavors. Even with our current situation in mind.

[ At least this time they reached a place to purchase items, so they can search the shelves as they speak... ]

[bloodweapon]

Hm.

[It's a quiet, thoughtful sound to fill the silence as Fray immediately moves to look through the shelves for the appropriate supplies. For a long moment, he doesn't say anything else.]

...My primary concern is for my student, as I'm worried he will push himself too hard without me there to remind him to rest. He is... over-zealous when it comes to helping others and does not take the time he needs for himself.

[There's only so much Fray can do to get it through his thick skull that he needs to rest if he wants to keep taking care of others... but he was getting close. He was so close, to finally getting the Warrior of Light to actually listen...]

But there's little to be done about it now until we can return home.

[beautifulknight]

[ Argenti feels himself smile, like he usually does, upon hearing that. It's hard not to, hearing about a teacher care so dearly about his hard-working student.

It reminds him, actually, of a time when he had someone personally teaching him how to be a Knight of Beauty. ]

His enthusiasm in wanting to help others truly sounds like quite a wonderful aspect!

You're right that there's little to be done about matters back home before this all comes to an end. Though, even if he hasn't been inclined to listen to you before when you've probably told him to not over-extend himself, I think it's likely he'd remember restraint! Since you're not there to oversee and assist him.

[ Argenti doesn't think it's impossible...though he doesn't think the concerns are without merit either. Ironically because he knows what it's like being a person who does like fervently assisting others!! Though, he does squint around the store in their immediate area for hints of medical items. ]

Or perhaps that is myself having faith in this capable student of yours. I don't think it can hurt.

[bloodweapon]

[Fray considers that thoughtfully for a moment.]

...Hm.

[...that's not a very confident answer??]

Perhaps he will surprise me.

[he's got no faith.]

[beautifulknight]

[ There is a small pause on Argenti's end...

... and then he's blinking as he picks up something that could be antiseptic and sending a little, but verily amused look over at Fray's general direction. ]

Well then.

Is it just me or am I detecting a lack of faith in your compatriot on this very matter?

[bloodweapon]

I don't know what you're talking about. I have the utmost faith in him.

[...]

For most things. Taking care of himself, however...?

[You can probably hear the exasperation in his voice. He is so tired, Argenti.]

[beautifulknight]

[ Now that nets something like a little chuckle for a moment, though of course it's simply light-hearted.

Argenti can picture how fruitless, maybe, previous attempts about ensuring his student taking great care of himself has gone, given the tone. . . ]

Ah...I believe now I truly understand. I have heard of the phrase 'experience is the greatest teacher', so perhaps it may be quite awhile for him to master this aspect. May he be carefully watched over by any other allies he has, since he is lacking in the art of beautiful self-care.

...And so that when you return and learn of any other accomplishments he will not be far too tired to greet you properly.

[ Argenti picks up quite a few boxes of bandages, as he states this with great confidence. He looks ridiculous just holding about six or several things in his arms, but then again he always does. ]

[bloodweapon]

I have no doubt that his allies will tend to him, should it reach that point.

[Whether they'll notice beforehand or not... Ehh, he doesn't have faith in them either. But at the very least, the Warrior of Light should still be alive by the time Fray returns, and he can work on getting that dumbass to look out for himself more once he's returned.]

It would seem you've gathered all we need. Allow me a moment to procure some extra supplies - just in case.

[damn good thing too, given izou... but anyway, once he takes some more bandages and the like, we should have enough to treat the entire gang! probably!!]

Shall we?

[beautifulknight]

Of course!

[ Help...they truly have gathered quite the great amount of items. Something about that makes him smile brightly (practically all of his smiles are bright, but there might be sparkles in sight!) A sense of satisfaction at their preparedness, really. The more prepared they are, and the more items they have, the more people they'll be able to help!

......Including being also ready for when a certain man slayer almost kills Fray...god.... ]

Yes, let us depart together! I believe we've gathered up enough items for now. In the event of a crisis, we shall be able to verily assist quite a large number of people at once. Truly, this is a most glorious and blessed fortune that has been bestowed upon us...so, let us treasure this in the most beautiful way!

[ Argenti saying this even though it isn't like it's completely free, smh. But he's all excited and happy-like anyway as even they go to the counter to purchase, and otherwise exit the market. ]

[bloodweapon]

[Fray makes a sound that sounds suspiciously like he's smothering a laugh, but he follows Argenti to pay and has fully recovered once that's done.]

You're an odd one, Knight of Beauty. You have my thanks for the assistance.

[beautifulknight]

[ How dare...laughing at him (no, please do) ]

I am most certainly gladdened to know that I have been of assistance.

[ Argenti seems to pause, as if considering something, but his hands are full so he can't exactly pose overdramatically. Still, he smiles and he seems to sparkle with maybe a hint of a rose petal fluttering in the wind? Anyway. ]

...All the same, if you ever need of my help once again, just call on me. I shall aid you in a heartbeat, my fellow midnight knight. But, until next time, do try to keep yourself well.

[ He says with his usual sincerity, giving a nod a head to him as he goes to make his way back, and they presumably part ways. ]

[bloodweapon]

[Where did those rose petals come from anyway?? Eh, this is probably the Argenti equivalent of Fray's eyes glowing red, despite that not making sense, so he won't question it.]

Of course. You as well.

[With a nod to indicate his agreement, Fray takes off as well. What an odd, odd man. But there's something about him that's sincerely charming, in a way Fray wasn't quite expecting. He's someone to keep an eye on, for sure.]