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

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[ilfochrome]

[ that sure is a colorful character calling to him from atop a nearby statue. he should probably just ignore this, but that would be rude— ]

Trouble? [ he smiles, though it's apologetic. ] It's no trouble for me, but it would probably be for you, so you should ask someone else instead.

[ said softly and not at all harshly for an apparent rejection. ]

[beautifulknight]

[ Argenti leaps gracefully down from the statue, landing perfectly on his feet, before giving Ukyo another!! Bright!!! Smile!!!! ]

Why would it be troublesome for me?

I am a man who becomes rarely troubled by others. Indeed, even now, I cannot wait to get to know each and every single one of you here!

[ilfochrome]

Ah? [ he takes a small step back but he's more completely confounded than properly startled. ]

I'm really not someone worth knowing either. [ i love that i'm asking this in comment two of this thread but is argenti visibly armed? ]

[beautifulknight]

Please, my new companion, I am not the type of person to make such a judgment. I believe that is something that should be discovered by one's actions, rather than a stranger's words. There is no beauty in remaining unknowing of others!

[ As Argenti extends a hand out towards the sky, it becomes clear he is not armed at the present moment. His spear is somewhere but not on him as of this thread, for better or worse! Armored jokes aside- ]

So, will you give me the chance for us to know one another just a tad? Oh, and to spend time modeling with me?

[ilfochrome]

If it was just words I wouldn't feel half as bad, it's the actions that are the problem. But you do seem pretty prepared, so if I'm careful...

[ this is an excellent conversation they're having, half talking past one another. it would be better if argenti has a weapon, but he's still a guy (with armor?), so it's probably okay. whether it's the movement or argenti's general Everything, Ukyo refocuses. ]

Is that what you were asking for my help with? Modeling? I'm a photographer, so I can help you with modeling from behind the camera.

[beautifulknight]

[ They're doing grand here, fam!!! ]

Indeed, you have nothing to worry about!

[ It's probably fine...???? Anyway, it's good the other man is refocusing on the request. Or whatnot. ]

Oh yes, that would be most grand; how fortuitous I have come across someone so wonderfully talented in a beautiful profession! Please, do come with me...

[ He begins to lead them on over to the boutique. ]

By the way, I would be very much delighted to hear your name. And, as for myself, you may call me Argenti.

[ilfochrome]

Hmm, it's some kind of fate that's for sure. [ just another off not at all omnious sounding comment, it's fine. he'll follow him easily enough though since if he's confident in anything, photography is it. ]

My name's Ukyo, it's nice to meet you, Argenti. Are you used to publicity? You seem comfortable in it.

[beautifulknight]

Yes, what are the chances?

[ Totally fine...well, at least the other man is following! He can't be too bad as he says, right? Argenti sure doesn't think so. ]

Well met, Ukyo. You would be correct that I am. As a Knight of Beauty, I have participated in events that would end up with myself being in the public eye, to quite an extent!

As a photographer, you must have experience with such matters as well, yes?

[ Though, Argenti is at least observant enough to figure that it is not a certainty that the other man is comfortable in it. ]

[ilfochrome]

A Knight... so you're British? [ that's what knight means to him, and surely his assumption isn't wrong. he nods along with a small smile. ]

I do, but I prefer to be as anonymous as I can be. Even though my name's famous, aside from the publishing houses, no one really knows what I look like.

[ this is also why his icon for the network here is a camera! selfies just ain't his thing. ]

[beautifulknight]

British? No, not at all! I've not yet heard of any "British" Knight, or anyone remotely "British".

At the very least, I can also be certain that there was no one like that on my homeworld, either. Are you most familiar with these British Knights?

[ Argenti has not traveled enough stars to encounter Earthlings as of yet, even if the concepts from the planet can be felt and discover wide throughout the entirety of the universe. ]

I see that you are not a fan of being in the spotlight, then. Though, I do wonder...what has made you take up photography?

[ilfochrome]

Oh, really? Well I lived in Europe for several years, but if you haven't heard of them then‐ [ it's a different world, far away from the node of world's he's familiar with. ] —don't worry about it. There's different names for all kinds of things.

Not much no, but I wouldn't say I'm really shy either. [ the question earns a bright smile. ]

It wasn't anything grand if that's what you're imagining. But one day when I was little, I took my father's camera and snapped a picture of the bright blue sky, framed by sun and clouds. And that's when I decided that I wanted to be the person who captured how beautiful all the different colors of the sky was. But that was also before I knew that a lot of photographers use the sky as their muse.

[beautifulknight]

There quite are, yes. I've never been to Europe, either, so I imagine it truly is a matter of being from a different world. I am no stranger to the possibility, with my various travels across the galaxy, so I shall not be too concerned on the matter indeed.

[ Either way, it's intriguing to him! Knights from a different world, that is. Not all Knights of Beauty originated from the same world, after all. ]

I see!

Though at times, even the most modest beginnings can be quite notable. Not overtly so, but in a way that shines brightly in the way even the grandest ones do. Indeed, what you described to me is touching! A yearning for reaching a dream that displays Beauty in its own right.

[ And they are here! It appears they're handed off a selection of attire with some summer-themed t-shirts (colored from orange to yellow like the setting sun), sunglasses, and shorts. The grumpy photographer who is in charge of the request merely waits for them to change before even thinking of asking for the theme/interactions he's looking for. ]

[ilfochrome]

You really like the word Beauty, huh? [ there are definitely odder quirks, but he can't help but mention it anyway.

he looks around the studio with a practiced eye, nodding, before the photographer barks at him to get moving. ]

Oh, no, I'm not here to be a model. I'm here to help Argenti model, I'm a photographer like you.

[ surely the grumpy photag won't protest, right? ]

[beautifulknight]

I certainly do. It is my destiny and duty to help spread the essence of Beauty across the galaxy...for Idrila.

[ Argenti doesn't mind the other man pointing it out, because it's true! Unfortunately, he is incredibly proud of it and takes it in stride because he is just like this.

Anyway, the photographer seems displeased at Ukyo's words. He shoves the collection of clothing at them both, barking at him to be a model and to help Argenti model too. Wow, how rude, adding on additional responsibility?! ]

...It seems our fellow second photographer here is not exactly open to having only one model.

[ilfochrome]

[ ukyo grabs the clothes instinctively, looking down at them and then back at the photographer again. it doesn't seem like there's a way out of this and he doesn't want to upset him more than he already is, so he guesses he has no choice. ]

Ahh, well, okay if you really need the help I'll do my best. [ he looks at argenti with a slightly exasperated smile. ]

I guess we should both get changed then. Have you modeled before?

[beautifulknight]

[ Yeah this guy is a binch ain't he.

Argenti himself is not the type to think it, but hey, the truth needs to be spoken somewheres. He returns the exasperated smile with a sheepish one of his own...thankfully, though, the question makes his expression turn as bright as the sun. ]

Oh, for certain! A Knight of Beauty like myself does not pursue such things on the regular, but it has happened when I have free time, or gotten caught up in a public event. Naturally, I would do my best to ensure my modeling is perfect for Idrila's sake. I presume you normally don't do this yourself, as a photographer, correct?

I do hope that those you've helped model in the past have been pleasant to you.

[ To model as a Knight of Beauty is to, always in a way, help promote "Beauty" and essentially "Idrila" across the universe. Though, he quickly goes to change, emerging with a swiftness that is, perhaps, kind of ridiculous. ]

[ilfochrome]

Yeah. But I did do a few shoots in high school because I got mistaken for being part of the cheerleading squad.

[ he'll step behind the screen to get changed (what theme is this, i'll let you decide lum). unlike argenti he is not a pro at this, so he'll need some time to swap out of his current clothes. ]

It hasn't been all that bad, but I don't really notice to be honest. When I'm working, things like that don't really bother me.

[beautifulknight]

Oh. I wonder how did that happen? Did you look like someone else on the cheerleading squad?

[ Someone with Ukyo's appearance...

As for theme, we can go with yellow short-sleeves with waves on them, goggles, but definitely swim trunks that are just black. ]

But, I am glad you are not troubled easily or haven't had terrible experiences while modeling! [ Glances at the photographer who raises an eyebrow ] Though it is happening in an unexpected manner, may this too be an event where your radiance is able to shine, even outside of your most cherished occupation.

[ilfochrome]

I think they just thought I was a girl. [ he's always had long hair and his looks trend more towards the feminine side, apparent skirt he usually wears aside. there's way worse they could be dressing in with a swimsuit theme, which means most of the time ukyo spends changing is to take off his usual outfit and tie his hair up in a high ponytail with barrettes to clip his bangs to the side.

he comes out from behind the curtain with a curious smile. ]

How do I look? Radiant?

[ behold he can even make a joke! ]

[beautifulknight]

Oh, they were sorely mistaken, then.

[ Argenti supposes that people may still adhere to certain conclusions when people appear a certain way, though perhaps they were enlightened after the incident? Perhaps, perhaps not...as he's mulling that, he turns and sees what Ukyo looks like.

At the question, he observes him closely, and unironically he states: ]

Yes, you are! As you are now, you are a true, perfectly shining companion in the our soon-to-be marvelous photoshoot! I am certain your brightness will be evident in each and every image displayed from our modeling, just as it is now.

[ The photographer seems to be squinting at the brightness as Argenti extends a hand in Ukyo's general direction. Then, grumpily the photographer says for them to position themselves how they like, but to throw one arm over each shoulder in at least one position. He also requests for them to be smiling, like they've known each other since they were kids. ]

[ilfochrome]

That was a joke, I'm not that bright of a guy especially next to someone like you. [ it could sound disparaging, but instead it sounds truthful.

after a moments pause, ukyo heads over where instructed, contemplative. ]

I've never known anyone that long, I think the longest I've ever stayed in touch with someone was a few months... but I'll try.

[ it's definitely not as enthusiastic as the photographer wants but he does out a hand lightly over Argenti's shoulder with a well formed smile. ]

[beautifulknight]

[ This young man must be humble indeed, to say such a thing! Argenti is definitely the type of person to believe that everyone can shine as bright as him...even if, let us be real, that is just ridiculous. ]

Even so, I am certain you can shine just as bright as I do!

[ Anyway he will easily sling an arm around Ukyo's shoulder and give a smile that is...very blinding. ]

Here we go, I believe we both have exemplified the image of the photographer's desired image perfectly. Have we not, good sir?

[ The photographer squints at this, brushes off Argenti's comment, and then grumps about the next position being a high-five or something that looks like it. So, Argenti will move to shift so he's doing exactly that, enthusiastically raising a hand!! ]

[ilfochrome]

Oh, this one is much easier! Even I know this one.

[ enthusiastic high five go!

the photographer keeps the grumbling to a minimum for this one, but he's not quite done with them yet. for the last pose he announces that he needs one of them to climb on the other's shoulders like they're playing a game of chicken.

hm. ]

Uh—

[beautifulknight]

[ Hmm...this would be...easier if they weren't like, so close in height, wouldn't it.......

Argenti is wondering if this photographer is presenting this one on purpose, but at the same time, he knocks away the thought. It isn't like the guy has ill intentions! No, perhaps this image is to help embody the picture of summer time play!? So, he turns his sparkling gaze back on over from the photographer, who is linefacing, back to the other male. ]

Do not fear. I shall offer my shoulders for you to climb upon.

[ Just like that, he gets down on one knee, and then looks at Ukyo with a smile. ]

How about this? Surely this will work?

[ilfochrome]

[ yeah it would be, time to grab a shorty from the cast—

pool time chicken is a popular pastime at least. ]

Yeah, that's—yeah, that'll work. if you drop me that's fine, I probably wouldn't even feel it. I did this when I was on the cheerleading squad years ago, but I was shorter, and it's different doing it with a guy then a girl. But why am I always the one being lifted on top, that's not very masculine...

[ just ignore him argenti, because despite his nattering on, he complies and hops on the redhead's shoulder relatively easy. also ignore the blush on his cheeks. ]