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]

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. ]

[beautifulknight]

[ Pluck a shorty like a petal from a flower~

Anyway, Argenti blinks at the words. Drop him? He should hope not! ]

I will endeavor to ensure you do not hit the ground, my fellow new companion. Though, I can easily understand how it might differ from your previous experience. Hopefully for the better, as it shall be easier to ensure you will be less bruised.

[ He is not the type of person to ignore others. Certainly not; as it is he supposes with that embarrassment that Ukyo may perhaps need more encouragement? Yes, that could solve it! After that, he carefully rises to his feet. ]

Shall this do? Surely we must be shining lights of Beauty for your modeling intentions. How is it? The splendid golden light of our exemplary teamwork! Our incredible balancing act - is it not perfect?!

[ Argenti's embellishments get the grumpy photographer to grumble. Also he will throw in one more thing to make it slightly complicated. He wants another smile from Ukyo where he is. ]

[ilfochrome]

I can't smile in a situation like this! Work with what you have like any good photographer would do!

[ apparently one of the only times ukyo will be assertive is when he's dying, who knew? he'll at least be a good passenger in that he's not squirming or trying to escape, but asking for more than that is a price too high.

the photag of course is not happy with this, but he is snapping away so maybe he'll accept this anyway(?) ]

[beautifulknight]

[ Apparently he is, especially since Argenti isn't going to back the rude photographer up here, giving him a little Look that dissipates so quickly it can be said to be complete imagination!

It's relatively easy for him to get back into high spirits either way, careful not to move around, but offering a smile on his end. The photographer seems about to ask about something else, only for Argenti to say pleasantly: ]

I believe that should suffice. Please, feel free to thank us for our assistance at any time! Expression of gratitude is a virtue that aligns well with that of Beauty; all those who express it shall certainly be blessed by Idrila!

[ Just like that, he goes down to one knee again, so that Ukyo can get off easily, ignoring the pinched look from said photographer. ]

Here. We should be all set to change and get ready to depart, Ukyo!

[ilfochrome]

[ he practically flies off with how quickly his feet hit the floor. ]

That was way more stressful than I thought it would be. Thanks for your help, Argenti.

[ zipping to get changed! ]

[beautifulknight]

[ Honestly...he doesn't blame him. ]

Of course, I am ever so glad to lend you my aid.

[ Argenti says, and goes to change at light speed, before heading to the exit of the boutique shop to wait for the other man to arrive. After all, he should probably say a proper good-bye before leaving. ]

[ilfochrome]

[ ukyo emerges not too long after, with a sigh. ]

But I was the one who was supposed to be helping you...

[beautifulknight]

[ A little smile leveraged his way and he shakes his head. ]

That is alright. I believe in a way you were able to help me in the end.

If I had no one to assist me in the modeling...I truly would have been without help. So in the end, we both were able to lend a hand to one another.

And for such a thing, is that truly so bad?

[ilfochrome]

No, I just wish I was stronger than I am. But if I was able to help you even in a small way like this, it makes me happy.

[ truly, and he manages a small smile here as proof. ]

[beautifulknight]

You truly are a kind young man. I have no doubts that you have touched the lives of others with such thoughtfulness.

[ Argenti points out gently, but sincerely. Such as it is, he places a hand atop his own chest, atop his armor. ]

And I do think those who are kind have a splendid spirit inside of them that is already strong or destined to become as much. So, I believe you will inevitably continue to cultivate that strength, one day at a time.

That said, I believe we've certainly accomplished our request at hand. I shall be making my departure for now, and hope to speak with you again, Ukyo.

[ilfochrome]

Young? I haven't heard that in a while... [ but he'll accept it as best he can, as well as Argenti's other words. he nods, his smile brighter. ]

Same here. See you another time! [ and with a wave he'll be off to wander elsewhere. ]