[ If by any chance you've been wondering where that bizarre golem has been for the past month, we are here to inform you that she has been on a very important mission. ...Important to her, anyway.

When the feed cuts on, the video shows Shale's upper half, and for all appearances it looks as though she just emerged from... well, the ocean. Water is dripping and draining from her various cracks and crevasses, and an assortment of seaweed and other plastic ocean debris seem to be clinging to her. Still, her ridiculous appearance doesn't seem to be dampening her otherwise serious expression, as she has very pressing matters to address: ]

Some time ago, I overheard a discussion that mentioned [ shudder ] flying fish, and when I went in to investigate I found... nothing! Nothing at all! It was completely devoid of life! ...Aside from me, that is.

I have little experience with bodies of water, so correct me if I am wrong, but are there not supposed to be fish in them?

I don't care either way for the creatures, but I admit I am curious to know what could have caused it. With any luck, perhaps the birds will meet the same end. Oh, I can picture them now, falling from the sky, splatting on the ground, bursting into flame perhaps! The possibilities are endless!

For those of you who may not know me, I’m Nathaniel Howe, one of the newly promoted sergeants of the transport section of the Exsilium city watch. I will do my best to protect the citizens and the transports, and offer my services whenever needed.

However, there is something much more important that I need to discuss. I and my fellow Grey Warden Duncan have just returned from a brief reconnaissance excursion in United Earth territory. We weren’t able to glean very much new information regarding our enemy, but we did procure this:

[Nathaniel holds up a small vial--approximately half the size of a standard test-tube--filled with some unknown liquid]

We found this on one of the citizens of the United Earth, and we have great reason to believe that it contains the drug that is being used to keep the citizens docile, and to prevent them from rising up against their leaders.

Unfortunately, neither Duncan nor myself has been able to determine what exactly is contained in the solution. We are, of course, sharing what we’ve found with the Initiative, but I am also calling on my fellow transports to see if there is anyone who has the knowledge or means to possibly determine what ingredients are in the drug, and to hopefully find an antidote.

If you are interested in helping, please let me know. I’m also willing to answer whatever questions anyone might have about what we learned.

( OOC INFO behind the cut )

[Duncan looks much grubbier than usual, a few smudges on his forehead and his armor dusty.]

It's odd how quickly we adapt to the conveniences of this place. I never thought I'd say I was looking forward to returning to my quarters and the shower there.

It looks as though there have been several new arrivals recently. My name is Duncan. If there are any of you from worlds with less advanced technology than this one, I will be willing to assist you with any questions. I know it's a difficult learning curve at first.

( private to Gordon Freeman )

[Oh hey, another video recording by some hapless new(-ish) Transport. The picture focuses quickly on the chin, neck, and upper chest of a man. That the shot lingers there, with only the stranger's breathing and the light patter of nearby rain for audio, is almost certainly evidence that he's not only hapless, he's technologically clueless.

After a few long moments, the silence is broken.]

Eedeh- Veedehoh. [He's determined to sort out this word. He goes on mumble to himself in a not-especially-common language:] Oh nahò:ten kén:ton?

[The tablet is finally held out away from him and there's the rest of the guy, clad in white and blue robes. His outfit is complete with a pointed hood that would easily cover half his face were his head not tilted back. Connor continues to size up the tablet, his eyebrows fixed low over his eyes - a hint of anger, or perhaps it's just suspicion, in an expression otherwise shaped by uncertainty and confusion.

The instructions on how to use this device have only been so much help. Much like the rest of the information given since his arrival, he finds himself forced to try and piece together understanding around too many words he's not once heard in his life. But he does get that this thing is meant for communication, supposedly with the other "Transports". With the other prisoners.

His frown firmly in place, he finally addresses the tablet - in English:]

Hello. Does anyone hear me? [When waiting expectantly doesn't yield a reply, his lip curls. Is he supposed to say more?]

I should not be here. I cannot help with this war. A man of great importance is in danger where I am from. I must get back. Should he be slain in my absence, the consequences will be unthinkable.

[Not the first time he's said this... and probably not the last, either. It's aggravating to have to repeat himself again and again, to be met with so many blank stares, answers of "there's no way out", and now a flexible window pane machine that seem to be ignoring him, but he feels it's necessary to continue repeating this particular message. It may only take one person who understands and knows of some well-guarded secret to help him escape this place. But that thought gives him pause.]

If there is a man named Thomas Hickey here, I would know where I might find him. [Hm.] Or a man who calls himself Charles Lee. I am interested in his whereabouts, as well.

[Is this machine even working? He's probably spent the last few minutes talking to himself. What a waste of time this is proving to be. But what's this button here do-]

( Action Option )

[This is the first time Lena's made a post of her own, and she looks nervous. For any who haven't met her yet, she looks like your average teenage girl, albeit with one vivid green eye and one gold eye. Probably not too unusual around these parts, though.]

Hi. My name's Lena and--

[She hesitates, sighs, and looks away from the camera for a moment.]

And I was hoping I could get some help? I have this staff from the armory, and I'm not sure how to do stuff with it.

[So clear, this girl.]

I mean, I can do... lots of things. I have powers. I know that's not big news around here, but I was wondering how to use the staff with them, because back home I don't need anything to channel it. But this weapon's supposed to adapt to me? Or something. So I figured it might help.

[She gives the camera a self-deprecating smile.]

Sometimes my powers can be a little unpredictable. That's why I was wondering if anyone could help teach me how to use the staff? Please let me know.

[She's about to turn off the camera, but then she remembers something and the image shakes for a moment.]

Oh, and I don't mind using my powers to help out anybody who needs it. Back home I had to keep it hidden, so it's kind of nice to not have to do that here. Umm, I can control the elements, levitate stuff, create things... Just ask and I'll see if I can help.

[The screen shows a terribly serious-looking man. If you look closely you might realize that he looks an awful lot like an animated corpse (which, coincidentally, would be because he is one). If not? He might look like any other medieval fellow who hasn't really kept up on hygiene. Or who perhaps contracted some kind of horrible disease.

Either way, he doesn't seem bothered by his condition.

He's also doing a pretty good job keeping the camera steady and focused despite his lack of experience with such devices. HE MEANS BUSINESS OK.]

Good people!

I confess I have not yet spoken to many of you, which I presently hope to rectify. You may call me Justice, and I intend to see to it that each poor soul drawn to this world is soon returned to his rightful lands unharmed.

[Big promises maybe but hey that's a spirit of justice for you.]

But first I must ask -- how does the Initiative capture its... [is "victims" too strong a word?] recruits? It is not magic, and I know no other way

[Good morning, transports! Mahdi is still in his matched pajamas in lavender flannel, printed with a design of bright blue and purple owls. A glimpse of silver jewelry can be seen beneath the pajamas' unruly folds. His long, dark hair is loose and bed-tangled, a rare glimpse of it not pulled back. He looks a bit nervous and confused, and points to an adorable mini snowman on his nightstand.]

Um, someone was in my room?

Maybe it was Santa? I'm a little bit fuzzy on the Santa thing. I'm not sure I've been good enough to warrant a visit from such a big celebrity.

Anyway, it's a really cute snowperson. I think I'll name hir Snowball.

So thanks, I guess.

[Mahdi sucks in a deep breath. He doesn't mean to be rude...] But please don't come in my room when I'm sleeping, okay?!

I never thought I'd be here long enough to see Christmas! Even if that means it's been a while - but, that's not a bad thing either, right? Because we all got to meet here. Oh, not that - not to say that I don't miss everyone at home, either...! But still...

( still, ranka's all pleasure, enjoying her view of the snow and giving the tablet a bright smile. thoughts like that won't bog her down at the moment. )

...and getting to see real snow, too! It's amazing, right?

( ooc: also in case i didn't get to you on the gift meme, ranka's cr can all assume they got cards and earnestly made christmas presents from her. EVEN IF THEY'VE ONLY TALKED ONCE OR SO you can assume at least a card :) also crying i totally am getting back to those masq threads even if it'll be a bit late )

[The video flicks on, though it never actually lands on Rin's... face. Instead the view flips around to focus on a brown loaf of bread with a piece clearly already sliced off the end. Rin's speaks a second later, her tone dry.]

For a place with several rebel armies recruiting, this place sure has been quiet from that end of things. Which is good. I think it's clear now that we have someone horrendous or several horrendousnesses amongst ourselves that maybe we should be worrying about first.

Not that I argue that anybody should trust the Initiative wholesale but... [A small sigh.] ... nothing... deserves your loyalty absolutely and without questions. Nothing.

[Lighter:] Anyway, I made some bread. It's pretty good if I say so myself! Does anybody want to share some bread? Don't be shy. As you can see, I already ate a piece.

[The screen comes on, showing Meliantha, with two small barrels - about knee-high, each - with markings on them (probably writing, but not Earth languages) on the table next to her.]

It has been brought to my attention that, for the good of us all, I must sacrifice some things I brought with me.

This [She puts her hand on one of them] is a small-keg of Tanagyr's Stout, a dark stout, well-regarded and smuggled heavily from place to place. And this [She touches the other] is a small-keg of Saerloonian Special Red, which is as the name implies a red wine, considered excellent where I am from.

I currently have about nine gallons of the beer, and eleven gallons of the wine, available. In order to keep the peace and help those in need, I will be willing to share these with us who have been brought here. Bring your own cups or glasses.

Since many people do not think well of those that just give things away, therefore I request in return the best joke you know - I am sharing something to improve people's moods, so we can have that in return.

[Every feature on her face looks exhausted, it’s clear she hasn’t slept. But her usual determined expression stays the same.]

Again, disastrous problems befell us. And again, not everyone came out of this unharmed. What more will it take to convince others to stand together and fight?

Our threat is not only just this UE, nor the Initiative who has shown its care for us if not recently then in the past on multiple occasions. What’s more, the threat has become infighting as well.

We are on our own.

[A bit of silence with a final AHEM.] With that, I’m announcing our third Defense Meeting that will be held this Saturday morning in the gardens, as last time.

We are a group that in time will grow stronger in defending not only ourselves but each other and that is our cause; to protect each other and fight as one during whatever circumstances, whether they be battles or something similar to what we’ve recently faced. This meeting we will be choosing our leaders amongst our own by nominations and by vote. But I encourage everyone to come and see for themselves the cause we are standing for.

And Barnaby Brooks, if you have a moment, I’d like to speak with you.

[An exhausted sigh, and finally,] ... Thank you. I'm Fiona, and I've been the one organizing these efforts thus far. If you have any questions, I'll answer them.



[OOC: Look who’s back from the dead. \o/ Anyways, OOC Nominations post is here along with link references~ Hooray. :>]

I find it difficult to believe that I'm the only one who has chosen to remain behind on the night of the party. I've spent the better part of a month on the streets of our illustrious host city. [Bone dry.]

I'm finding myself in the mood for some company. I don't suppose anyone here knows Wicked Grace or Diamondback?

If not, I'll settle for a decent drink. I'll even buy the first round.

[April is sort of flicking through the posts here from everyone. It's what she does instead of, y'know, socialize like a normal person.
Until she comes to the bit about the Masquerade. She remembers that, scoffs a bit at the idea of it being held in the Palace of Versailles, but then she realizes something.]

Now I'm not saying I'm coming to this masquerade thing for pleasure, alright? Parties were never my thing. [Pff, yeah right.] I do want to learn more and at least try to understand this place and the people here better though. This seems a good way.

[She pauses there, looks at the screen hard like she's trying to think of the best way to ask this. She doesn't much like asking for aid.]

So besides the masks, what's required? It's not a dress up affair, is it? I kind of have a horrible eye for clothing. Or fashion. A friend of mine used to harp at me about it a lot and it isn't as if I've exactly practiced since I last saw her.

[Actually she'd been running around in a land where having any clothing at all was kind of a blessing, not even getting at what was fashionable.]

Though I suppose it doesn't really matter, it's not like this is to impress anyone. Still...

[Still she'd like to not look like she died in some hobo's closet or something if she's going to do this.]

[ it opens with the sound of walking, the creak of a door opening followed by hard soled shoes on an old wooden floor. there's a creak of a lid opening, and then the scrape of a chair across the floor. There's a pause without sound and then there is a song. After it's done, Takegami plays a couple simple scales and then sighs. ]

That was an interesting interlude. Do try better next time, mm? I think I lasted a good two minutes laying in that alley. Mind, I am still pissed about my jacket. Do you know hard it is to find a good leather coat in this place? Blood does not come out of leather, never mind the holes. People and their guns. How messy.

[ yeah, he does not care about dying. in fact, he finds it a little funny. ]

What did I miss while I was spending time among the dearly departed?

[ And heeeere's Leliana, back from her super secret hiatus mission. She looks a little worse for wear -- a few scratches here, a few scars there -- but she is delighted and cleaned up. (She wouldn't even dream of showing her face in the network without make-up.) ]

I'm back from my super, secret mission. Oh, and it was delightful! Action! Drama! Suspense!

[ She giggles, and it ends with a contented sigh. ]

Oh, I'm so sorry I didn't tell any of you. To be fair, I thought it was only going to take a few days but... not a month.

I have missed a lot of stuff, yes? Could someone care to fill me in? Nothing too exciting was happening while I was gone, I hope.

[ After a long search, Takegami has found something he just wants to share with everyone. But instead of showing it to people, he is just going to play it. So enjoy a little piano music over the new netbooks.

Then he will sigh and the video is turned on. The room is disused and dusty, water stains on the walls and various plant life creeping inside. Maybe at one time the room had been full of artwork and elegant furnishings but now it was all crumbling, though a few pieces looked intact. ]

Ah, there. It's back in tune. Do you know how hard it is to tune such an instrument without the right tools? [ The camera swivels around so he can look at all you lovely people and smile. ]

The only question is how to it back to the City in one piece. I don't suppose any of you can help me, can you?

Can I ask someone some questions about human parents? Like if you have them, or if you are one!

[ With the way Feferi has her face all up in the camera, you would think she had never used technology before. But no, she's just very exuberant, more so than usual. ]

Oh yeah, and that's not the only thing I wanted to say! So who remembers that we were working on a guide for new people? Well, it's finally ready!

[ Link Attached: A Newbie's Guide to Exsilium ]

But before I print it out, I want everyone to see it. What do you all think? And some people can be relieved that there are only plain, boring fonts, thanks to the all the help I got! If anyone else has anything to add, tell me! Also, it would be great if some people would volunteer as contacts for the new people. You know, like an on-call question answerer!

( ooc notes )

[The face on the screen is the one above. The image rotates a bit, then settles down.]

Greetings. I am Meliantha.

I managed to convince one of our hosts to explain to me how this device works. Where I am from we have nothing like it. Many things here are different. But many things are similar - perhaps universal things.

I would be willing to trade lessons in fighting for lessons in the devices used here, if it would be helpful. While my main skill is in the sword, I have used most weapons and-

[She pauses, as if interrupted, and then appears to address the sword hilt visible over her shoulder.]

-- no, I am not going to give you away, do not be silly.

[She returns her attention to the message, and continues.]

-- and have also taught basic tactics to arrange a successful slave rebellion. Hopefully these skills will be worth the time in trade. I hope to speak with others soon. I know there are a number of persons with skills in the blade - we may wish to gather and battle each other, in order to improve our skills and learn new tricks.

I preferred the old books better. [This thing is being folded every which way, because they just had to make this thing harder to use.] At least you knew where you stood with them. The old books never changed; they might never have been easy to use, but they you knew what you were supposed to do with them.

[Is he talking about the book, still? Maybe, maybe not.] With all this talk of the Initiative and the United Earth issues, there's been something that's come up several times. Something I would be worried about, and so should others.

Traitors. Those who turned away from the goal right when their colleagues needed them most. Or the ones who never came to help in the first place, though they said they would. Traitors also includes liars. Yes. Liars. The ones who never tell the truth, especially when the truth could be the information you needed the most.

[He's getting exasperated with this new book.] I wonder, how did everyone else treat liars back home? In Ferelden, we had several ways of punishing those that had committed crimes against the crown, or those who'd lied and were caught. Some of them seemed rather harsh, but if someone who steals loses a finger, why not have the liar lose something as well? Something they value, something close to them, so that they can be hurt as much as they have hurt those around them.

So, how should we treat those liars, here? If we find traitors, what do we do with them? A mock execution, whipping, leaving them bound and gagged in a small room? Killing them would just be too merciful for what they've done, wouldn't it? [He pauses.]

Andraste's foul breath, this new book is more difficult then the other! [Okay, he's done with this book thing. With a yell, he throws it across the room.]

[Chloe's looking a little pale today. Or really pale, and she's already pale enough as it is. It makes her look a little sick and a lot tired.] Does anyone know the number of casualties from the attack?

[There's a pause as her gaze follows something before she returns her attention to the feed. Too many dead bodies. Too many ghosts. It's an uncomfortable feeling.] Or what will happen to the bodies? I-I haven't, um... Gone looking for a cemetery. [Lol, because who would, right?] What I mean is, I... [Oh my God, Chloe, you are an idiot. She clears her throat.] Will they be buried?

[OKAY. GONNA TRY AND BE AN ADULT HERE. You know, that thing Johnny is terrible at being? Yes. But he wants to be useful. Also, he's bored.]

Um, anyone need help with anythin'? Things are pretty wrecked, an' all things considered, I'm in okay shape after all that, so I can like... Clean stuff or lift stuff or whatever. I'm pretty strong, ya know.

[AWKWARD PAUSE GOES HERE. After looking unsure of what to say after a few moments, he pipes up again.]

So does shit like this happen often here? All-out battles an' attacks 'n' shit? Cuz if so, maybe we should start preparing for when they do find out we're still here.

[The feed is staticky and has an annoying old-TV-on-the-fritz roll going on. Maria's sitting on a folded-up blanket with her back to the catacomb wall, bad leg stretched out in front of her. Not the best furniture in the world, but displaced persons can't be choosers.

She's also managed to scrounge up a tiny petroleum campstove and a very battered tin pot, in which she's currently making tea. The sky may be falling in a screwed-up, filthy future that none of them can escape, but THERE WILL BE TEA, DAMN IT. Her expression is meditative.]

In the world I come from there was once a war which wasn't a war. Two great powers running roughshod over little countries to prove how big they were to one another.

[There's a burst of audio static that drowns her out, although she keeps talking while she pulls the tea off the flame and cuts the gas.]

. . . never seemed to me that either one of them cared that much for what became of the little people they were using for their pawns.

I do not consider that the Initiative or the United Earth are any different in that regard. It is not so much that we are caught between good guys and bad guys. Only between two great powers who see us as means to their own respective ends.

[She gazes calmly down at her tea, her body language and her placid delivery very much at odds with how pissed she actually is. She takes it personally when people drop bombs on her, okay?]

Nevertheless. I cannot speak for anyone else. But I intend to find my own best way to show the more brutish of the two great powers just what a very bad decision they made when they decided to fuck with me.

[a soft crackle as the tablet is set down, then--]

Welcome to the Initiative. Enjoy this bomb.

Really, what kind of greeting is this?

[--a pause --]

Anyone know if these tunnels will really hold up or are we going to get buried alive?