Hello everyone,

My name is Flora, for those that might not know. It's nice to meet you. [Yeah her posts are tagged as such, but propriety etc etc] I know that there is a lot going on right now, so, if anyone needs anything--fruits, veggies, or other things--we could work out an...exchange perhaps? [She suddenly looks mildly uncomfortable, almost wincing at the word "exchange" in particular, but then she is smiling again, with gentle sincerity] If you don't have anything to offer, please don't worry about it, just try to pay it forward to someone else that might need help, if you can.

Secondly, Christmas is coming up, and other holidays too, it seems? We don't have them where I'm from, and while Christmas, at least, means the world to someone I know, I'm still learning about it, I suppose.

There is something I have been wondering, though?

[Flora's eyes sharpen with intellectual curiosity, and as she cradles her chin between her thumb and forefinger, it's obvious that the next words she's about to utter have been given the utmost, perhaps even reverent, consideration.]

Could someone please tell me more about Santa Claus? He sounds like a really powerful man with his Christmas magic.

[is she joking is she not we just don't know]

Thank you.

[Anyway, she cuts the feed.]

Hello, everyone!

If everything keeps going as it is, the Agriculture Wing--[There might be an excited sing-song trill in the way she says Agriculture Wing.]--will soon be open, so I was just wondering if there was anyone who wanted to get together outside of it, just a little while before it does. It won't be anything like a party, though I would be happy to put some tea and cookies or the like together if anyone wanted them. It's really just to talk about all the things we might or could want to do there, and maybe just to talk about about plants in general. Oh, and some fungi, too!

[Correct classification is important!]

But absolutely anyone would be welcome, even if you don't know as much about the subject, and, if anyone has any ideas or suggestions about anything at all, please feel free to contribute!

For that matter, though, seeing as how we'll have only so much space, it might be a good idea to take stock of the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other plants people might want or need? It's a free area, of course, but if there are higher demands for certain things, it might be a good idea to keep some kind of record. That way, anyone who wants to do work there will know what others might want or need, if that's what they would like to do. It would also help in terms of supplies and organisation, since different plants have different needs, and while a lot of species can be quite versatile and hardy, and their needs very multi-purpose, some things can be very limiting and specific, and it wouldn't be very productive to stock up on things that might not be used terribly often if there are better alternatives. For example, flowers of the viol--[Flora no. By the grace of some deity or other she manages to catch herself, in time.]

Ah, I'm sorry, I probably shouldn't get carried away. [She looks apologetic, if only mildly because EXCITE THIS GON BE SO GREAT U GAIZ!!

Ahem, though.]

So, what would you all like to see?

So I get we got plenty of urgent business to take care of what with...well, we live on the moon, bombs, wars, yadda yadda, but indulge me for a bit.

Everyone keeps talkin' about Halloween, yeah? An' it's about ghosts an' the departed...

So for Ghosts, those currently present that is, would this be like a second birthday? Y'know, as in gifts an' the like? Cause I could stand behind somethin' like that a hundred percent.

I'm in 155 if anyone's feelin' generous.

[As always he's just posting to see if he can't rustle a few jimmies down the line. Treating urgency lightly usually does the trick in his experience.]

( THE SETTING: the setting isn't exciting. I mean, it's the clinic and it looks extremely clean and well organised, but that's probably more a relief to any observers than exciting. Donny is himself, dressed in his scrubs, sleeves of the long shirt he wears underneath rolled up so that the tattoos and metal bands around his forearms are visible. He'd look sort of badass if he didn't also look a little bit green.

Fortunately he is surrounded by attractive people and first aid kits! YEAH. AWESOME. Ella is on his right, Flora as his left, although they're positioned on one side of the camera. Almost like they are keeping room for something. )

Um, h-hey. I'm-- I'm Donny, I um, I help in the-- the c-clinic? With-- supplies, and coordinating uh, stuff. ( There's a long pause, and he glances to Flora, fumbling with his words for a second before he can put something together. ) Um, just-- we just wanted to announce that we have um, m-made first aid k-kits for all the Transports. I think-- some of you p-picked them up at the m-meeting? 

( he's making a conscious effort not to fidget, but he looks so uncomfortable, and there's a reason he doesn't... do video posts. This time he's chewing his lip, glancing at Ella for a second before his gaze drops and his fingers curl towards his palms. )

If you haven't g-got one yet, if you c-could um, please come by the c-clinic. It'd b-be-- be good to get um, everyone checked off the list b-before the day n-new Transports arrive. And-- yep.

( Oh what's that? Donny seems to look horrified for a second, before Stephanie steps on camera, holding a first aid kit and modelling its contents the way you might see a car or a fridge or another fantastic prize modelled on a quiz show. Stephanie, please.

She even has a suitable 'game show model' smile, though it turns into a sheepish grin about a third of the way into her little demonstration.

With that ruined, she steps up so she's closer to the camera, putting an arm around Donny's shoulders as she addresses their audience. Donny would like the ground to swallow him up and it shows. ]

Sorry, they dared me to do it. [No they didn't.] Hey, everyone, I'm Steph, and I'm here to help you learn how to use these handy little things, if you'd like. Well, there are a few other people who can teach you as well, but I'm the cutest.

[Donny is looking horrified still (THIS IS A SERIOUS ANNOUNCEMENT), but Steph is all smiles.]

Anyway, most of this stuff is pretty simple, but if you'd like to learn your way around basic first aid, there are some classes you can sign up for, either by replying here, or coming down to the clinic whenever you're free. [a beat, to let that sink in, then:] That's it from me, have a good one, guys.

[And with a little salute, and a pat to Donny's arm, she moves off screen. There's sort of... trepidation and concern in how he looks to the others, now, waiting for them to chip in. ]

Ella is trying to smile next to Donny. She’s been slightly under the weather -a lot, actually- but hearing him make an effort and kind off flail at it does wonders for her mood. Maybe she’s a bit of a bad friend. Sighing, she takes a step forth as she holds a kit up. ]

It’s free, of course, and we will replenish it whenever you need. It has a bunch of useful stuff, both for treating whatever little nuisance you might have and prevent something serious to get even more serious before you can get help. [ A beat. ] And of course, you should totally come to the Infirmary if you really need to. Having a kit will solve some problems, but here’s where we make sure you get better.

[ She glances at Flora. While Ella can talk for hours, this is a joint effort, so she’ll bite her tongue. For now. ] [She appreciates the self-restraint, Ella. Donny looks at her and she flashes him a warm and encouraging smile. She’s really proud of him for doing this and taking initiative. When Stephanie makes her display, Flora tries to look stern, at least for Donny’s sake, but it’s clear she’s trying very hard not to laugh. She manages it. Somehow. Barely. Boy, does she ever love working here, sometimes. By the time it’s her turn to speak, though, she smoothly takes her cue and is quite composed, if still smiling.]

If for some reason you’re unable to pick up a kit, arrangements can be made to have them delivered to you. We’re here to help, so just let us know, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

( Thanks, ladies. BUT BEFORE THEY WRAP THIS UP, Donny kind of shakes himself out of his state of I HATE PUBLIC SPEAKING to add, )

We're-- we're t-trying to uh, make sure we have all our b-bases covered for um, Transports that aren't human. C-cause-- I guess m-most of our knowledge and equipment is human... human f-focused. And-- yeah, any help p-preparing would be great. We have some other staff who aren't human, if you'd uh, f-feel-- feel m-more comfortable talking to them. Galadriel and-- there's also blood d-donations and-- Yeah. You c-can um, always ask us for m-more details and stuff. Thank you.

( Oh God can they turn off the feed now please turn off the feed-- thank God, Flora bounds forward and turns off the device. )


( OOC: Responses will come from Donny and various other clinic folks!
You also don't have to play out your character receiving a first aid kit! These losers will try to make sure every transport has one ASAP, delivering if they must. THEY WILL HUNT YOU DOWN TO GIVE YOU YOUR FIRST AID KIT. But, you know. Politely. )

Hi, this is Donny Casey. This is mostly about coordinating some of the ideas that have come up lately.

Ashraf and I are working on trying to getting a clinic functioning, inventory lists and everything like that. Probably figuring out a steady roster for collecting supplies to make sure we can keep up with demand and never get to low, maybe build up stores for emergencies and everything. When things go bad here they tend to go really, really bad so having a maximum capacity clinic that's really well stocked is really critical. If you have any suggestions or ideas they'd be really appreciated.

The better prepared we are with the basics, the more time and energy we'll have to focus on saving Exsilium. I think having all the basic stuff sorted out up here and having what we need on hand will make working out the details and tactics for helping Exsilium, and it means that if anyone disappears then the system can keep going because everyone knows how it works?
If anyone has any ideas about the best way to do this, I'd really appreciate any help. I know a few people have posted ideas since we got here about different areas to focus on, so it would be worth meeting up or something? It could be worth brainstorming.

I also have metal manipulation magic so if anyone needs help reinforcing things or anything like that, anything construction-wise, I'd be glad to help.

If anyone was close to Crystalia, Sweet Pea, Guinevere or Margaery Tyrell, it looks like they've all gone home. I kept looking for them in case there was an administrative error with the Initiative after everything or in case they just needed some time to themselves but it looks like they're really gone.

I'm really sorry.


( After Kang's response, he edits the post to add: )
special medical note:
For non-humans in particular, if you require specific medical care or there are differences in how your body functions from humans then it would be great if you could come by and talk to us so we know how to treat you. With the resurrection tech being down it's even more important that we get everyone the best medical care possible.

Even if you're human but have allergies or anything like that, get in touch so we can make sure our records are accurate.

[The video feed clicks on to show Heath in his quarters smiling widely at his audience]

Heeeey Exsilumites. Just trying that word out there, I think it works for us. It makes us sound way cooler than 'Transports', don't you think? Transports make us sound like we're, like, smuggled goods or something. Stuffed in some guys suitcase trying to sneak through customs.

[Wait, he had a point to this ramble, didn't he? He clears his throat]

ANYway, I noticed some of you guys have been getting all antsy about the werewolves, so I thought I'd give you some Monster High approved ways of keeping your werewolves happy. Just follow this advice and you shouldn't have to worry about being mauled unless you...you know antagonise them, and if you do that you're pretty much asking to be chewed on.

[He'll hold up a variety of toys to the camera. Squeaky chickens, tennis balls, even a Frisbee]

Now what all werewolves love is to play fetch. They'll chase pretty much anything. If you throw one of these things in the opposite direction you want to go, you can make sure the thing they're chasing isn't you. If you can't get any toys, sticks work too. ...Though I guess you can't get any sticks on the moon, unless there are like moon trees.

Are there moon trees?

[Back to the subject at hand, moon trees aren't important right now]

They also love steaks, so if you guys are heading out collecting stuff to bring back here, you should probably bring steaks. Not stakes. Because that's for a completely different monster and no one wants to encourage that kind of prejudice anyway.

So there you go! Remember that werewolves are just big adorable puppies in their fuzzy hearts and don't annoy them while they're suffering on the moon and everything will be A-OK. This has been a PSA by the Heathster. You've been a great audience!

My Masters...

[There's a splatter of blood on the screen as Lancelot speaks up, clear humor and an exceptional mood in his voice. He backs away from the screen, wearing his full armor, sans his helmet. There's a gaping hole in the left part of his breastplate armor, blood dried on the outside of it. Roughly the whole front of his chestplate--or what's remaining of it--is covered in dry blood.]

So, I return.

[The crack of his armor begins closing just before Lancelot brings up a clawed gauntlet up to his face, an unstable laugh slowly leaving him.]

I've gotten my wish. After so long...

His armor returns to pristine condition, black smoke hissing out of his healing wound and the steel breastplate as it fully mends. Berserker's face vanishes next, behind his black helm, which appears from the black smoke. In a twisted, obscured voice distorted by magic, he reaches towards the comm to turn it off.]

I will return to your services. Now--where are we?

[Flora appears on the feed. There's a deep worry to her eyes, but also a focus. Soon after, a hologram of a solemn, dark-haired man fills the feed in her place, while her voice is heard off-screen, urgent, but steady.]

Hello, everyone. Has anyone seen this man around the base, or in Exsilium, if you're still there? He usually goes by Berserker, or maybe you know him as something else, but I can't find him. He was with me yesterday, and he was supposed to be, today, but he's not. I don't know where he is, and we're running out of time.

[Saying it aloud again just makes it all the more real, tightens that noose of tension and anxiety around her neck just a little more and she finds it hard to breathe. She's trying very, very hard not to come apart at the seams, but it's just too much. After everything else that's happened, and is going to happen, this is just too much.

But she can't come apart, not yet, because she hasn't found him. She still has things to do.

She reappears on the feed.]

I don't know if he's just happened to have gone back home, but there might be a chance that he hasn't. [That she can't be certain of anything, especially on today of all days....]

I know we're all busy with so many things right now. I'm not asking anyone to go out of their way, just if you've happened to have seen him. If you know anything at all, please, I would really appreciate it if you could let me know.

Thank you.

[ filter; all Mekakushi Dan members; video ]

[ She debated doing this as a voice post at first, but if she's going to actually address the entire Dan as the Exsilium branch leader for the first time, she needs to have her face be seen. She also needs to take a moment to come up with what exactly she wants to say, and how to say it.

How to be a leader when she's only twelve years of age.

Kotetsu & Barnaby would be having a fit over this, surely.

She's sitting on the couch and takes a deep breath before she opens her mouth. ]

Afternoon, everyone. My name is Kaede Kaburagi, and I am the Exsilium Branch Leader for the Mekakushi Dan. I wish I could be introducing myself to you all at the party Kido & I were planning, and on much more lighthearted terms, but that got squashed with the recent kidnappings.

As you all may have heard/watched a few minutes ago, we're now under a nuclear strike thanks to the United Earth, and we're moving to the moon. I just want to extend my assistance to anyone and everyone who may need help packing up items, especially those of importance. If you also wish, once you are completely packed with what you want to take up there, you are welcome to drop your bag, or bags, off in Unit 202, and you can even hang out here while the Initiative prepares to send us up. Kido, Kano, and I all want our door to be open for you all, especially in this time.



[ filter; Keith Goodman & Karina Lyle; video ]

[ And now that that is done, she shakes the numb feeling settling in her hands and takes several more deep breaths before making another filter. ]

Hey! Are you both okay? I'm sorry I disappeared for the past several weeks — the UE got their hands on me, but I'm okay.

( [Filtered to Riku] )

[The vid feed is dark. In the shelter of the alleyway, there's some flickering attempts at a fire in the shelter of the eaves. Luke ventures away from the camera to try and feed more paper and fuel into the half-busted can, but he's not very good at this. After a sigh, he returns to the tablet and flops down. The rain drones on just a couple feet away.]

Heh, I thought building a fire would make me feel better, but I can't even do that properly...

[He runs a hand through his hair to briefly collect himself]

I wanted to let everyone know that Asch and Guy are both gone. I don't know how many friends they had, but Asch had a lot of connections. [He doesn't look at the camera. Guy is okay, he's sure of it, but Asch...]

There's-- there's so much he left unfinished. I'm not Asch, but if anyone needed his help with something, then... please, let me try in his stead.

[His fingers tighten in the gathered fabric around his knee, trembling visibly. He reaches over and turns off the tablet.]

[Berserker shows up on camera, wearing his full set of armor, sans his mask. He's holding his helm under one arm with his free hand holding his tablet, pointed towards his face. He's standing inside of what appears to be a rustic old castle, empty though adorned with lavish furnishings. Walking through the interior of the castle, Berserker ignores what appears to be a host of trinkets, trophies and food-stuffs better spotted in his age.

He made pause, looking up tattered tapestries left on the walls, a few areas marked by the impacts of swords and arrows, though to someone who had scarcely seen a castle under siege, those things would go unnoticed. There are eternally lit torches hung from each wall, a few illuminating Berserker intensely.]

I see. My Masters, it appears that my existence alone in a place of fame will allow me to bring forth this castle. I had not thought to even try it...

[There is a slashed mantle and tabard hung from one wall. Though it's in tatters, one could see the Pendragon crest on it.]

It is my castle. If my Ladies are in need of it, I will plunder its depths.

[Anyone looking for the castle itself wouldn't have to go far--it would be right outside of Exsilium's limits... a fairly large fortress castle.]

[On screen is Halfpipe with a smile that lights up the whole of her blue-tattooed face. She's in what looks to be a seedier district of the city, but not many Exiles are around.]

This place gets more and more like my world every day.

[At which she shifts the camera to focus on a point behind her--what several people will recognize as one of Exsilium's brothels.]

I'm curious, guys. How different is it here, compared to your homes? And if it is different, is it in good ways or bad ones?

Oh, and I'm Halfpipe, by the way.

[Filtered from Seles]

[A rare video feed from Kaneis comes on, partly because one of his roommates had to turn on the tablet. It becomes quickly apparently why- it seems his hands and locks of his hair are tangled up with strips of brightly colored leopard print duct tape. Someone attempted to do home repairs when they knew absolutely nothing about home repair. The background shows one giant hole in the wall about six inches in diameter, just to give you an idea. Allen is next to him, trying to get some of the duct tape off]

Okay okay- I'll ask! Just get me outta this stuff!

[He gives a huff and looks at the camera. He looks rather disgruntled]

Say, does anyone out there know where a person can get a couch? Ours kinda...got wrecked the other day and we can't fix it.

Oh and, stuff to seal up holes in the wall? That'd be good too.

Thanks in- [And then he YELLS "OW" as Allen his roommate pulls a piece out of his hair not so gently]

ALLEN! THAT WAS MY HAIR!

[Transmission end!]

[ This broadcast sounds a little staticy, like it's from a long way away. ]

Hey— any trackers out there? I could use one. I got a missing horse, the asshole threw me and took off.

Oh, yeah, related, who wants to come pick me up? I got no idea where I am, but I haven't seen any buildings in, like, hours. Sooooo, pretty far out, is my guess! [ A laugh. ] Think of it as a game. Whoever finds me first gets all my worldly possessions, horse aside. Esteban aside, too. You don't want him, trust me, he'd dump a load of shit on your pillow and take off.

No prize if one of these monsters out here tears my throat out first, though. So, chop chop!

[Standing in the rain, Shiki stood in front of a ruined castle. His communicator was soaked, the audio a little distorted and the video a little blurry. Not minding this at all, he could be heard walking under a little bit of cover, just to get out of the rain. The steam from his breaths could be seen and his voice sounded somewhat hoarse, as if he'd just been screaming for awhile.]

I wonder. If I killed enough soldiers, would I get sent back? How much would I have to kill for these people for the world to decide my ticket here is up?

Maybe if I volunteered for a lobotomy, I'd be able to work with this.

[Shiki fell onto his backside, setting his comm down and watched the ruins awhile longer.]

Is everyone okay?

( She's looking worse for wear, has lost a lot of the muscle she'd managed to build up since getting here. Still, she offers a little grin, a cushion on her lap that her hands are idly twisting into, before she remembers the cup of tea nearby and grabs it up, warming her hands around it. )

So, uh. Okay.

( Eloquent, Linton. )

Do-- is anyone here familiar with Gwen Harwood? She's an Australian poet. I was thinking about her a bit, but I haven't been able to track her down. She wrote this thing, once about how death has become obscene, and philosophers...

( Ellie tilts her head, running her fingers through her hair, gaze not really focused on anything. )

It's been a while. But it's really good. I don't even know if anyone here is that into literature and poetry and stuff except for Dagger. Any takers?

[This is Berserker, standing in one of the training halls. Shortly after the feed comes on, he prompts himself to stand back from it and take his shirt off, immediately confusing his intentions for the message he's about to send. He's not wearing a little collar and bow tie, so there's a low risk that a Chip n'Dales show is about to break out, though. A little off camera, a younger man stands there, holding a roll of duct-tape.]

My Masters. I have little understanding of how to send private messages, so I will simply ignore the necessity. As I understand, you both have been distracted. The benefits of my binding to your wills has provided physical benefits to you both, yet little has come of it. I suppose it's time to change such a thing. Just the same--no, I am not embittered by your refusal to allow my death. I have gotten past such a petty discrepancy.

[He raised his left hand and then set it behind his back horizontally. The young man approached and began duct-taping Berserker's arm to his back.]

Given my perfect mastery of weaponry and incomparable swordsmanship, I cannot teach you in the conventional way. I would recite the saying, 'I can beat you with both arms tied behind my back,' but that would defeat the purpose of you observing my technique. Instead, I will have one arm fixed behind my back to create a semblance of hope for you both.

[The young man finished rolling the duct-tape, heavily rolling his eyes as he listened to Berserker. When he was done, he sauntered off, the sound of him scraping money off the ground heard as he hunched over a little.]

I will remain in one of the training rooms, practicing my conservation of energy. Please arrive at the same time to minimize your injuries.

[Raiden is crouched, holding the communicator in one hand, and empty vials in another. He's looking at the vials, his eyes never once darting towards the screen. There is a trace amount of blood on his breastplate. When he speaks, it's with a harsh edge that barely disguises a haunted tremor.

Some of the structures around him are busted up.]

Found one of those bastards in the market place, pretending he was sick. He had these.

[He rolls the vials between his claws.]

I caught him, he didn't say much though. Just "United Earth stands strong, obey and prosper!" And that the Exiles will be punished.

[He looks up into the sky, squinting his single eye, then opens his mouth slightly as if to say something. When nothing comes out, he just sighs.]

...Yeah. Guess that's it.

[He stands up, waving the vials in a "come and get it" gesture.]

Raiden out.

[Feed cuts out]

[There's been a tremendous spike in patients recently, and the influx is only worsening as the days pass. The clinic doesn't have a robust staff as it is, so Adrasteius--and probably anyone else on the roster--is more than a little overworked. His expression over the feed is harried, haggard, and more than a little frustrated. Normally, diseases wither into nothing under the influence of the Light, but this illness has proved alarmingly resistant. He can treat the symptoms well enough, but the sickness itself keeps surviving. It would drive him to drink, if he even had time.]

This situation is getting out of hand. If you're still able, and you have the skill, the clinic needs you. I don't just mean healing skill, either--we need people to run supplies, prepare food, organize files, maintain records, all that sort of thing. Just tell me what you're able to do and I'll find you a place.

[Adrasteius runs a hand over his tired face, but his eyes are as bright and steady as ever. They might be bogged down, but he's damn sure not going to turn anyone away--not until taking in more people becomes unsafe.]

And if you think whatever this damn thing is has gotten hold of you, come see us. Not just because we aren't the Initiative--but because even their hospital is probably overflowing. We're busy, but we've still got clean beds and I'm still going to take care of you. I can't eliminate the disease, but I can mitigate whatever pain you're feeling, at least.

[He looks like he could use a nap, and he sounds a bit, well, almost bored.]

I suppose introductions are in order. My name is Kirian Dawningsun, and I've met a handful of you already.

[He manages half of a smile. Look, he's attempting to be pleasant.]

Due to a more recent message on this network, I would like to take the opportunity to offer my skills as a tailor. I do not work for charity, but I am rather skilled in men's and women's garments.  I'm certain that you'll find any cost will be well worth it.  I can enchant garments, as well, though I'm afraid I do not have the materials to offer more than very simple ones at this time- fire resistance in the cloth, and the like.

I ask only that you contact me to negotiate the terms of the work, and allow me a bit of time to finish the garment. Payment is required in advance, to pay for the materials necessary.

Thank you.

[ There's a scruffy, friendly-lookin dude front and center here, sort of recognizable as the slightly older, longer-haired version that used to go around being stuffy and formal. This sheepish smile is pretty uncharacteristic of him from back then, though. ]

Hello! I'm Ashraf. I was here a while ago, co-director of the transport-run clinic? [ He offers a wave. ] So hello again to anyone that knew me. I'm sorry in advance if I don't remember you very well, it's been about fifty years on my end! [ says the guy who doesn't look a day over 20 ]

So, anyway— I figured this could be a long shot, but... does anyone have a way with clothing?

[ Here's where the sheepish smile makes a triumphant return. He pulls up a pair of beautifully embroidered robes, obviously expensive, but currently full of violent-looking rips, tears, and a bullet hole or two. There's also some bloodstains left over from attempts to wash them out. ]

I tried, I really did. At this point, I think it's going to take magic to set these straight. Or a whole new set, maybe. So, um... any takers? I could pay!

[At first there is only a light tapping of claws against a tabletop, then a slightly labored, agitated breath.]

Dialysis.

[Well that was an awkward thing to just blurt out. There is another pause then he speaks again, his rusty voice carrying a note of mingled embarrassment and anger. It's the voice of someone publicly confessing to something he'd rather keep secret.]

Who here can perform dialysis? Mr. Stark... Anyone...

[More tapping then he snaps with a bit more nastiness than is probably necessary.]

And if you're gonna lecture me then just shut up, 'cause I don't wanna hear it.

[ in a rare turn of events, you get one dean winchester on the network today. for those who know him, he's looking more thoughtful than usual-- though there's still something close to a smirk on his face. ]

If there's one thing the Initiative's pretty good at, it's gettin' a bunch of people here. I mean, our numbers have quadrupled or something since I got here, and sure there've been some ups and downs in our dandy population, but it's still peaking. [ he has a point with this, bear with him… ]

So that makes me wonder, how many of you weren't yanked straight from your beds back home? Meanin', you were in an entirely different world before Exsilium decided it was its turn? I know there were some of you 'round before, but what about from the new bunch? Or anyone who's left.

Also, if you've ever taken an otherworld-ly tour and gone home after, that counts as well.

So let's hear it! All you aliens and mutants or whatever gotta have a few things to tell, right?

[ because in the movies it's you guys who get to do that kinda stuff. or something. but have a smile if that'll hopefully help you with the whole show and tell thing. ]


( filtered to sam and cas  )

In Spira, people play a game called Blitzball. Every year there's a big tournament in Luca, and people come from all over to watch it and root for their favorite team. It was one of the few really good things we had in Spira. A time for everyone to get together and have fun, and forget about their sorrows for a little while.

I wondered if there's anything like that here? Maybe not a sport, but some kind of regular event where everyone gathers to celebrate and have fun?

[The video feed clicks on, tablet hovering a short distance from its owner. M'gann is located in the armory, and she's standing in front of what looks like a large red egg. A bright smile is in place, and it's taking all she has to contain her excitement. It helps that she's already flown around in glee; no one else really needs to see that, right? Right.

The martian places her hand on the side of the object as she addresses the network, clearly ready to burst from happiness.]

Um, I'm not really sure how to start this, so I guess jumping right in is the best way to do it. This [she pats the thing] is my Bio-Ship. She's an organic ship from my home world. I know she looks odd right now, but she's at rest. Normally she'll respond to my commands and wake up, however, right now, she's a little worse for wear. I'm not entirely sure what happened, but I'm sure it's fixable! She'll just need time and maintenance.

[M'gann pauses and faces the ship for a moment, something occurring to her.] I'd love to have some help working on her right away, but first, I'll need to get her out of here. The doors's too small, though that could be easily fixed. It looks like the main problem will be transporting her. Since my commands aren't enough right now, we'll have to physically move her, whether it be strength or teleportation or telekinetic efforts.

I can't do this alone. I'm positive some of you are more than enough to get this job completed. I'd be very grateful for any help! I'll be in the armory or over the network if there are questions of any kind!

( At least this time Ellie isn't in some random, ramshackle building, but enjoying the warmth of the kitchen and a giant cup of coffee. At least she looks marginally better rested than she has on previous occasions. )

So, with that whole swap thing, I've been thinking. ( A pause, and there's a note of self mockery in her voice: ) Because I don't think enough when weird stuff isn't happening. Or less-weird stuff, at any rate. ( Has she really digressed already and wandered off with her thoughts? She shakes her head at herself. )

I was thinking about anger. Or any emotion, I guess, when they get that intense that you feel like all your insides are writhing about like snakes, but anger's the one that stuck out for me. We're all in this war, and some of us have been in wars before and some haven't, and everyone handles it in these different ways.

( She trails off; articulating this isn't going so smoothly as she'd expected, but sometimes you just have to throw things at the wall and see what sticks. Homer used to throw pasta at the wall, a lot, and a bloody lot of that stuck. The memory makes her smile a little. )

I mean, just before I got here, Kev-- uh, this guy in our group, he wasn't doing so well with everything. ( See, Fi, she at least tried not to name and shame. Belatedly. ) Everyone tried different things to get him going, and it was this weird insight-- I guess it just said a bit about the kind of people we are, depending what tactic we used. ( Fi: sympathy. Lee: abuse. Homer: encouragement. )
I was all logic and common sense. ( A beat, before she continues, speaking a little more slowly as she grapples with her pride and tries to think it out. ) Sometimes I don't think that really shows the full picture, but.

( She could say that it definitely doesn't, not when you got anger that just bubbles up and blows being reasonable right out of the water. She could, but does not. )

Anyway, I was talking to this guy here, before, about anger. How you can use it, and that, make it work for you, and I just... I didn't know if that really worked for anyone. If anger's a weapon, or if you got an on/off switch for it, or what? 'Cause there's this quote in uh, this Shakespeare play - “wrath makes him deaf,” I think the Queen in Henry VI. ( She squints, trying to remember. ) And then there's another bit, about not coming between “the dragon and his rage,” in King Lear. I think Lear was already going crazy, though, by then, though. ( Quietly: ) It's been a while since I studied them. Trying to read that stuff and figure out all the language is hard, without those special high school study editions.

( Where was she even going with this? )

So I guess I just wondered what you lot thought about it. Anger and controlling anger and using it and whether it screws you up, or what.

( A beat, and she smiles crookedly. ) Or we could talk about dragons. We don't have any back home, but some of you have to have dragons, right?

[Disgruntled and serious looking as ever, Kido appears flips on the video. May as well. She's sitting up on the couch, hood up, but she seems to be in a pretty good mood. How can she not be? She's back in her body.]

Never thought I'd miss my body so much. [Well, anyway.] Oi, anyone in the Mekakushi Dan! Report in. And I'm counting you if you want to be in it and just haven't joined yet, so this is for you, too. We need to assign your numbers. First come, first service, I guess. Kinda hard to keep track otherwise.

Ah, yeah, how did welcoming the newbies and the Initiative's mission go? How are you feeling? That's all I need to know.

[She scratches her head. Business done, she slouches more into the couch, tablet sliding in her lap. Just some leftover messages for people. She switches the video off and goes to text only for that.]

Sayaka, I uploaded some music for you. [Have a download link featuring copious amounts of Radiohead, Oasis and pretty much any bands you can find here as well as indie Japanese artists.] Tell me if you like it. I'm thinking I'm going to practice singing and maybe try taking up guitar. ...Ah, anyone who wants the music can take it though.

Ringo? I'm up for that...girls' night or whatever whenever you are. What do you do on one anyway?

Oz, when you're free I'll teach you how to cook so let me know.

[She tries to remember what other things she was thinking about... Oh yeah.]

Oh yeah, two things. I remember hearing about that holiday with the bunny that hides eggs. It's sometime in spring, right?

Other thing is I need some new recipes to try. Don't really care what kinds. There must be some foods you guys like a lot and want to tell someone about. If it's something you like, I'll make it for you in exchange.

[There's a youngish looking teenager  with a mop of red hair can be seen on the screen. He's new, but this isn't exactly his first day here. He's spent most of this week keeping close to the people of his own world that made it to Exsilium. He was one of the lucky bunch to have most everyone he cared about from his world follow him here, so he's fairly happy. Well, as happy as you can be in this place.]

You know, I feel kinda like an ass. I've been hanging around my own people and haven't really poked around to see what other kind of people are here. This place might kinda suck, but my family's here and I've got a chance to meet some new people.

[At the moment, he's fairly calm and just curious as to how will respond to an upbeat message on the network. Of course, he could bitch and moan about this place, and he's certain he eventually will, but for now he's fairly relaxed, considering he's new and so far, this place hasn't seemed like that bad of a deal...yet. At least, not compared to the events of his own world that were happening at the time he left.]

[ Kuroh’s been here for a couple months now. He’s kept careful tabs on the network and made a few new friends, learned a few new things. Chief among them: People often ask their fellow Transports a really personal or philosophical question over the tablets for no other reason than to pass the time.

So. To demonstrate his totally admirable social skills--and also due to a recent pang of homesickness--he’s going to prove that he can fit in here. ]

Good afternoon. This is Kuroh Yatogami. [ Well everyone already knows that since this isn’t anonymous, but for the sake of politeness. ] I wonder, how many of you here also had teachers back home who were very important to you? I mean the sort who were just as much your family as your instructors. [ Oh no, he’s starting to look nostalgic. ] Those who taught you everything you know and loved you unconditionally.

For me, that was Ichigen Miwa. [ And with that, his normally quiet voice becomes a lot more emotional and excited. And...he reaches into his jacket pocket. Suddenly in his hand is a peculiar voice recorder. ] The late Colorless King, the wisest and most fair master anyone could ask for, whose inspired words of wisdom guide me to this very day! [ With a small click, Kuroh presses a button, and... ]

Walk casually
Along the path you have chosen
The path to your dreams.
[ Exsilium, you’ve been treated to the soothing, poetic voice of a dead man. Sorry, was Kuroh expressing interest in other people’s teachers earlier? No more. His cheeks are a bit flushed and one can practically see the sparkles in the atmosphere. ] And there you have it! Not a day goes by when I don’t--

[ Oops, and then he bumps the tablet with his free hand, and the feed is cut off. And thank god because he was showing no signs of stopping. ]

[ ooc note: this is before he learns of Certain Castmates’ arrival. Shiro, the fanboy's probably in the apartment. ]

<sub>[The feed opens up to a room with pink walls with plush, very comfortable looking couches, as well as more intimate looking tables and chairs for two or three. Everything is clean, immaculate, and cozy. It then shifts to show flowers, many, many kinds in bouquets of different sizes, already in vases, corsages, wreaths, and other sorts of arrangements.

Flora appears in front of them all with a sunny smile.]</sub>

Hello, everyone!

Spring hasn't arrived yet, if it ever really will in the way I'm used to, at least, so I thought why not try to make a little of our own? The flowers are free to absolutely anyone that wants them. Even if it's just a for a short while, I hope you can take a little of spring with you and have brighter days.

_{[The feed then moves to display all sorts of cakes, treats, and teapots before she appears again, scratching her cheek a little bashfully.]}

Oh, and um, it's also my birthday today, so if anyone wants anything here, please, feel free to help yourself. You're quite welcome to stay a while, too, if you like. I'll be here all day.

Farewell and see you soon, perhaps!

<sub>[The feed cuts off. There are directions provided in text. And if there was any doubt as to which building it is, it's got flower baskets hanging around the door of it, window boxes, as well as potted plants to either side of it.

And around it.

...and down the pathway.

Yeah. So. Shouldn't be too hard to miss.]</sub>

[It's a brilliantly sunny day, everyone. It's raining, of course, but not lightly enough to turn to mist and block the light, and not heavily enough to drive everyone indoors.

The cause for the brilliance is sitting atop the highest structure he could find near the center of the city, shining like a star. Best not to look at him directly. You might even want to buy sunglasses, although there's probably no one who sells them.

He's not illuminating the whole city, of course, but he's trying.]

Greetings all, 'tis Balder the Brave. If others can bring snow, I thought I might try to bring the sun. Let me know if it is too much. And if you would, entertain me with your best stories. I ask not that they be true, merely interesting.

...This is gonna sound kinda weird, but hypothetically--just work with me here, hypothetically someone had a birthday here. Does it still count even though they're sorta uh, dead? See, I have this buddy and he's been worrying about it for about a week now--if it counts, would he just keep tacking the years on? Does it even matter here? I know some worlds have limits like in some you can only drive when you're 16 (if you have a license that is), and then some you can only drink if you're a certain age.

_{[Demyx could you be any less obvious? Just man up and admit it's your birthday, jeeze.]}

A-Anyway, would it be weird if he did want to go out and celebrate with himself, even if it doesn't count?

[ Oh hey look, it's Drift. And it appears he's finally given up the gun on the whole trying to pretend he's not a giant awkward robot. He sucks at this whole secret thing. So have a giant robot. ]

So hi there. Uhm. Right. So I'm Drift. And I've got just a few questions.

First is that uh. I'm becoming abundantly aware that I'll probably need to find a better way to fit in here for obvious reasons. I do have something called a "Holoform" which allows me to project a solid holomatter representation of a human. But I'm really. Not a human. So there's that.

I guess what I'm asking is for some help in how humans or organics are really supposed to act.

Second, I'm looking for work. It doesn't actually have to be paid work, but anything I can do to help. My skills lie in.

Uh. Lifting heavy objects, chopping things and... well I'm pretty decent in a fight. So you know. Sparring or training self defense? Anything anyone can think of that they need help with. Please don't hesitate to ask.

[ He's a little desperate to make himself useful. ]

i turned 1297 today
it's gonna take a lot of cake to fit that many candles

[ encrypted to tony stark; ] have you ever heard of energon?

[ all replies will be text unless noted otherwise, and the poster ID is just "robin"! ]