The Storm came. You remember darkness, but you don't remember much after that.
You don't know how long you slept, but the dreams were short. You remember the expanse of stars and galaxies in your direct view. Every world and solar system ever known to man was present in your dreams in careful, pristine detail. You also witnessed the Storm, which has devoured a fair portion of these galaxies. Your Earth and similar planets were assimilated by the Storm. Somehow, you knew it would be the last you'd see of your world. That was when she told you what happened. You knew that you'd be living somewhere new. The details weren't clear, but you knew it was a part of a deal with the entity known as Darma.
Not long after, you'll wake at Thesa Station. Your body is still cold; it all felt like a dream, but somehow, you knew it wasn't — Regardless of your will, you find your body doesn’t respond to you immediately. Instead, you hear a voice begin to resonate deep within you.
 I have seen much... But what I am not accustomed to, is being unable to see.
It was never our wish for those we saved to go through such an ordeal. People... are unpredictable. And you, Refugee, still continue to surprise us. That is why we cannot allow you to die just yet.
Refugee, I no longer have plans to intervene with this world — I have already done too much. Here on out, what happens below... must be resolved by you, its people, and fate. You and your friends before you have proven yourselves. Our eyes are upon you, and our hearts with you.
The Natha have become aware of how ill-prepared many of their new refugees are for the hardships below. While Darma has decided against direct intervention, the other Orbiters echo the opposite sentiment. With their homes destroyed and the ongoing trials that await them planetside imminent, they do not want refugees to descend without knowing exactly what they're getting into. Therefore, Roman and Zasere have set out to host a workshop in order to train the refugees for complex environment of El Nysa.
A new area has opened in Thesa Station: the Exhibition Hall. This vast open space has been configured to rival the size of the Hangar Station, with the north and south ends decorated accordingly. Refugees that have managed to return to Thesa will notice that the north end strongly resembles Olympia, while the south is a near replica of Wyver. Upon entering, you're given a goodie bag containing some postcards from either cities. There will be a variety of workshops available throughout this area. Each workshop is held in its own unique training room, separated only by high-durability glass for individual demonstrations to be observable to all in the vicinity. Workshops will focus on a few major topics that refugees should keep in mind when they reach land.
I — A HALL DIVIDED
The north side of the Exhibition Hall is fashioned to look exactly like a small section of Olympia. There are ghost-like projections of its people, seemingly going about their businesses as if to demonstrate their everyday living. There is even enough space for them to setup an example of a typical starter dormitory, and it wouldn't be a coincidence if it reminds you of room displays of the furniture stores back in your homeworld; Roman has been particularly inspired by magazines of various worlds.
Refugees who have been living or have visited Olympia will be highly encouraged to "sell" the Empire to the newly awoken. Until you find someone who is willing to do that, you'll find a fancy brochure inside your goodie bag, highlighting the benefits of choosing Olympia... however, there seems to be an earlier draft of it floating around, also.
Over on the south side is decorated will all kinds of tropical plant-life. Strangely enough, crossing the threshold of north and south, you'll also get a taste of the jungle heat, or is that only your imagination? Regardless, the presentation is to mirror the north: the Wyver people are shown as projections, making the space feel as populated as the canyons of Wyver. The sample living space is quite different here; all around, tents and wooden shacks are built to demonstrate what refugees might expect when living here. Similarly, refugee who are currently residing in the jungle city are also encouraged to talk about life there. The same brochure highlights this for the newly awoken.
On either side, you will be able to grab small trinkets from either cities; samples of food and wines, stickers, pins and buttons, and even photos of some of the more well-known natives. Wait, are those paintings of older refugees? Weird, but it's supposedly what you would expect from a convention for Darma's planet of El Nysa.
II — BLENDING IN
When you deal with natives, it's normal to feel a bit of anxiety. As far as you're aware, the natives don't know that you not only came from space, but other universes entirely. After this crash course, hopefully you will have the confidence to maintain a sane conversation with a native without getting any strange looks!
- A) One side of the demonstration room shows various scenes from Olympia and Wyver. They seem to be showcasing the day-to-day interactions of regular natives, but you might find that some of the projected individuals in the examples are strangely familiar, even under all the effects and filters. In fact, after taking a closer look, you'll find that these are relatively poor imitations of the refugees that have arrived before you, even though you're assured that they're just a coincidence.
 — This is Focket and Warrior 67. They were both refugees that were exiled from Olympia for a quest that resulted in all those involved being framed for a biological warfare attack! Focket and Warrior 67 decided to run off to Wyver where they currently live a peaceful quiet life allegedly. And that's the beauty of El Nysa! If you accidentally commit treason in one city, you may try your luck in another!
Before long, it becomes very clear that the instructional examples are meant to be the pre-existing refugees that arrived on the station to greet you. After all, there aren't many talking raccoons or white-haired soldiers with visors. Perhaps they're an early-riser from home, or a stranger that you met in the Mess Hall, or even in this very room with you. Makes you wonder where they got this from, doesn't it? At the very least, one thing becomes very clear: The Natha Orbiters weren't lying when they said they were watching.
- B) While there are ample 3D renders and projections all around the floor that anyone can have access to, you will immediately notice that there is an excess of them in the corner. These are renders that were wrongly coded or mistakenly conjured up, hence... you might notice "Koralle" is looking a little furry, or that one of the Wyvern Shamans look a little more fish-like. Either way, these renders still manage to serve a purpose.
In this corner you will be paired up with someone. Either you or them will be given a "role," and you must convincingly act and converse as such. For example, if one of you are given the role of "Wyver King," one of you must act accordingly, and the other must treat them with the proper respect. From there, the renders will judge.
If they give you a pass, you'll be allowed to the exit. If you don't, then you might be here for a while. As a general hint, things that seem to give people extra "performance points" are: mentioning certain landmarks, figures, or other key details relating to El Nysa (see: the brochure). This is a workshop for this purpose, after all.
III — PLANET NYSA EXHIBITION
Perhaps you've heard of this prior to opening your eyes here on Thesa Station: a promise of power in exchange for diligence and loyalty. Show them you are capable of "earning your keep," and the Natha Orbiters may bestow you with powers of your own.
In this workshop, the Orbiters are now allowing refugees to physically test these powers; this time, outside of the comfort of the virtual reality modules. From healing spells to the ability of flight, the sky is almost the limit with these newfound abilities. These powers are temporary, however, and do not last any longer than an hour. You're free to sample as many abilities as you'd like. But, once one is in effect, you cannot gain another without the first one running out its course.
Closest to the exit was the wildlife exhibition, summoning renders of both flora and fauna of Olympia and Wyver. This was meant to showcase the types of wildlife those heading planetside could expect. Don't let the promise of "projections" fool you! These renders are as poisonous, as dangerous, and as realistic as you might expect if you were seeing the real thing. In fact, they have become so unruly that some may have escaped their stations and are running amok, terrorizing everyone (Especially Zasere, who prepared them himself). On the bright side, you've still got those nifty borrowed powers, right?
Monsters aren't the only things you should be worried about. All over, the plantlife that found exposure from the chaos. From the broken glass that once contained them, some flora will have effects that may temporarily ail refugees in its vicinity. Be sure to check their labels if you are caught! Roman has begun handing out gloves and gas masks for this special occasion, being unwilling to destroy the specimen himself. He encourages all to contain them rather than kill!
While most of the flora and fauna have been handled rather quickly, the more agile ones can be seen around the station. One may have found its way to your meal in the Mess Hall, another may be hiding in the bathroom facilities. Wherever they are, it never hurts to practice some caution. Hopefully this gets cleared up before Darma catches wind... but even she would admit this is the most lively Thesa Station has been since that July many months ago.
IV — SOCIAL-LINKED(in)
By miracle, there are still some quieter parts of the hall. This may be an appropriate time to check out your smart phone. Aside from the expected "Omage" app, there seems to be a new one called Social-Linked. There, you may find a profile waiting to be posted. The app allows for the user to fill it in, but there is also an auto-function! upon pressing it, it will generate a shockingly-honest answer based on the Natha's observation of your history. Roman will be your only friend in this app, with his very own profile:
| ●●●●○ THESA |
  |
ROMAN
@romannoodles (∞), Thesa
I WAS A: Butler! I still am, and I'm happy to serve all of the new arrivals!
I'M SKILLED IN: Cooking, cleaning, anything that involves making your life better!
I'M LOOKING FOR: Consistency!
ALSO, I'M: Not entirely certain if the "auto" profile function is to your liking. Feel free to edit if it is not to taste!
So, have you decided on making your own profile? Perhaps you used the "auto" function on accident? Regardless, once your profile is out there, it's out there. And like the Omage app, it will match you with someone. NOTE: Please use the form below to fill out a profile! Whether it's auto-generated or filled by the character is up to you!
Far away from the chaos, you managed to find the massive section on the station known as the Stasis Unit. There’s no special access required to enter this part of Thesa Station, but refugees are warned that it may not be for the faint of heart. Here, in large pods that nearly cover every square inch of the space, are all of the people the Orbiters have managed to rescue. Your loved ones, your greatest enemy, your next door neighbor — you might find them here. These people are in a state of deep cryosleep. Due to the damaging effects of The Storm, their bodies are not yet ready to be awoken.
Feel free to wildcard prompts within Thesa Station!
These threads may be carried over as game canon if players choose. Players are encouraged to submit TDM threads as application samples, but they are not required. Please direct any OOC questions to the questions thread below. An AC-length thread may be submitted for THREE (3) NATHA ORBITER REPUTATION POINTS after acceptance here. Please submit by April 17th. Network threads are not eligible.
We will no longer be providing overflow posts. In an event where the post hits CAPTCHA, players are advised to move threads to an overflow post on their character journals or create their own catch-all post. These threads remain eligible for REP.
There will be an application cap of 60, and no reserves. Please read here for more information.
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there's a brief touch of a smile that appears briefly, especially as he takes the request and gently opens it up. when he unfolds it, he ... almost has to bemoan that consistency of fate. it states clearly "your partner is a high ranking soldier in wyver, you are his closest servant." servant. it's a word that probably holds more meaning than it should and he gives an inaudible sigh in reply. honestly...
neatly, he shows cain the piece of paper. ]
I'll be in your care, "Master." [ he tries these words out. even in chaldea, he felt despite his boastings that there were areas of disconnect with his attitude as a servant. in particularly in his past and all he's done well to conceal beneath the surface. but, well now wasn't the time for reservations.
as if to finish his act, he puts an arm across his chest and dips his head briefly. ]
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[ Cain stares at the paper, unable to conceal his look of distaste. Oh, the high ranking soldier part of his role is familiar, that part's no problem, for all that he performs his duties in an unorthodox manner. But he's never treated his subordinates like servants, as anything other than men whose duty it is for him to protect.
The role rankles, even if it's only pretend. Cain sighs — and blanches as the man dips his head in a brief bow. ]
Er. I don't even know your name... Can we start with that, first? I'm Cain.
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at any rate, cain's chagrin is made relatively clear. his displeasure painted across his visage. it's communicated well enough that arjuna can't deny the almost sympathetic quirk that threatens to tug at the corner of his lips. still, he does his best to remain collected, even in light of this.
he wonders if the man simply disliked being waited on? ]
As you wish. [ here, identities likely didn't hold as much bearing. akin to chaldea, he doubts many servants are truly kept in shadows here. at least the application made that quite clear in its own way. still, arjuna ... doesn't reveal it instantly, if just for— ] Is it expected to know your Servant's name here, as well...? [ it's almost in a whisper, as if he's testing how much he can inquire without ruining the activity.
that is before he finally bites his losses. ] No matter. You may call be Arch— [ the frog seems to wilt at this response. flattening out a little...
before arjuna clears his throat in correction. ] Arjuna.
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[ Except that doesn't seem to be pleasing the froggy shaman at all, either. It croaks at them, and Cain jumps a bit guiltily. Ah. Looks there's really no getting out of this, then.
He sighs, shoulders slumping, the very picture of (overly) dejected resignation.
In fact, isn't this a little too much resignation for just having to put on a bit of an act...?
With a distinct lack of enthusiasm, Cain mutters: ]
I mean, servant. Go... fetch me my dragon? [ He sneaks a peek at the frog, who seems to have perked up dramatically at this. Cain sighs again and adds, utterly deadpan: ] Right. Dragon. Because I'm from Wyver and we love riding them off to war.
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hence, he stands there for a few second longer than he intends.
but, in this time, he soon connects the concept that cain was not deliberately trying to create a scenario for them.. interesting. wyver was a territory known for their rich history in connection to dragons. their scaled brethren. arjuna recounts this, and almost as if shifting gears, he gives another prim and formal dip of his head. ] As you wish, Master.
Shall I fetch them from the stables? [ the frog seems to shake his head a little at arjuna?? there's a quiet and reserved mark of slight irritation from arjuna, but he continues seamlessly. ] Or would you prefer me to capture the attention of one near the Undergrowth? [ it's a location he remembers from the top of his head. if he recalls, there were a variety of flora and fauna found there. but, that also... brings to light.
the frog hops around a little. evidently pleased by the location point. but, then... it looks at arjuna expectantly...
it's not really expecting them to act out the dragon part, is it?? hence, arjuna... then casts a look to cain. ]
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Cain clears his throat. As a veteran, this is... up to him. Right. He's going to get them out of this. Somehow. ]
Ahem. Servant, you know that neither is to my tastes! We must go seek one from the royal stables, for I am a very important man and simply nothing else will do!
[ The "royal stables" where hopefully, they can make a quick getaway... ]
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My apologies. You are absolutely correct. Nothing short of the most brilliant and agile of our winged brethren would suit you. You are, after all, my Master. [ if anything, it's more of a tribute to how arjuna thinks. a servant can only be utilized to their full potential with a master who is equally capable. regardless of how much he does or doesn't project, he nods along to the request. already beginning to move. ]
Then, permit me to lead the way. [ he says, but arjuna is only thinking of the most convoluted route possible on the station, and in particular this area. it helps they're close enough to a crowd. arjuna takes a quick gaze back at cain to see if he's following, before making his way onwards.
... unfortunately, from what he could see the frog wasstill most definitely following them. ]
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[ An absent response, and Cain entirely misses the odd emphasis that's put on his title. He's preoccupied with his own thoughts.
So, their froggy friend is bound and determined to follow them... And not even a winding path is enough to throw him off their trail. Not ideal. Not ideal at all, when Cain really doesn't want to be playing out any sort of dragon hunting — he gets the idea that the only sort of dragon the frog will be satisfied with is a real creature from the Wyver exhibit, and that's the last thing they need released on the station.
Which means it's time for a quick escape.
He waits, biding his time — when one of the other exhibits catches the frog's eyes momentarily, he darts forward, grabbing Arjuna by the arm, and hisses: ]
Quick, this way!
[ And pulls Arjuna past the exhibits, out of the main hall, and into one of the smaller, empty side corridors of the station. All that's left behind for their froggy friend to find of them is the abandoned pages of the script to go fluttering down to the deck in their wake as Cain pushes Arjuna against the wall, out of sight as the frog peers around, frantically searching for them. ]
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but, for as much as he seems to be deliberating between the options (and secondary to that, thinking of potentially going on the offense with the frog), he realizes he's also straying from their initial path. so it helps when cain sees an opportunity and runs with it.
what arjuna doesn't expect more than their sudden escape, however, is the fact that cain grabs onto his arm. it's a casual gesture, and yet one he is far unaccustomed to. which likely shows in his brief display of shock. one that only seems to amplify as cain then pushes him against a wall. ] ... ?
[ he's about to open his mouth, but realizes their froggy companion is hot on their trail.
as if to solidify some sort of control over the situation, he moves to press a gloved hand against cain's back and brings him closer; further obscuring the both of them. he then gestures briefly: a hand coming to make a symbol of "silence." then, he points to his ear. the frog's feet on the floor made a pretty memorable sound and so once that passes, give or take 10-15 seconds, they could probably make their way down this hall. ]
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Cain nods, waiting, pressed against Arjuna. Only when the frog's distinctive slapping of feet against the metal floor of the station fades and stays faded does he let out a gusty breath and turns to venture farther into the station, away from the bustle of the exhibition. ]
Whew! And here I thought we were actually going to have to find a dragon!
[ Cheerful with his relief — and he hasn't let go of Arjuna, either. They're partners in crime now, after all. ]
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[ it's sometimes difficult to discern when arjuna employs any sense of humor. but, it's something close enough presently. ] Or did you dislike the idea of vanquishing it in the worst case scenario, I wonder... [ still, arjuna doesn't seem to mind either way, if anything... it was clear that the man before him did assist him in escaping this scenario and for that he wasn't against displaying gratitude.
but, before that, he looks at the space between them. slowly he moves his arm upwards before it reaches cain's shoulder. he then leans in and whispers: ] You're close. [ in a neutral tone likely unbefitting of the situation. he then presses gently on cain's shoulder as to pry him from him. ]
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[ Cain does let go now that it's been pointed out, but only after giving Arjuna's shoulder one last, friendly pat. ]
It seemed like Mr. Frog there was the type who wouldn't have been satisfied with just looking at a dragon, that's all. I didn't relish the thought of having one loose on the station and having to keep it from rampaging.
[ Because with the Natha, that was a thing that Cain could all too easily see happening. Sure, a real, live dragon might have been nice for an exhibit, part of the wild life display... but the moment it got loose, it'd be up to the refugees to deal with the trouble, the Natha wouldn't be lifting a hand to corral the creature safely back to its cage themselves. ]
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True. I doubt casualties would have been easy to evade. [ but, it seems from cain's response he wasn't the sort who would have been defenseless were that the case. which implied a certain degree of either a.) familiarity or b.) strength. both concepts arjuna isn't unfamiliar too. it gets a slight raise of the brow. ]
Are you a warrior of this station? [ or was he like him? arjuna doesn't jump to any conclusions. or rather, he's learned to be careful of them. they were dangerous, after all. and... entirely unbefitting of a hero. but that was beside the point. ]