etrayalogs | FEBRUARY MINGLE

Entry tags:

FEBRUARY MINGLE

WHO: Everyone!
WHEN: February 14th - March
WHERE: Etraya
WHAT: The arrival of newcomers, a mini mission, and some new city features!
NOTES\WARNINGS:

⏵ arrival ⏴
Welcome to Etraya!

Arrival goes as expected - characters awaken on hospital beds and are offered an explanation of their situation: that they have arrived in the city of Etraya, and they are their world's only hope. They are welcome to wander the hospital if they would like to - the upper floors are mostly empty, full of pristine hallways and numerous rooms filled with supplies, cots, and things one would expect from a relatively average 21st-century hospital.

In the hospital's lobby are several party tables set out with miscellaneous baked goods: croissants, cookies, breads, cake slices, as well as tea and coffee to accompany them - or hot chocolate, for those who are opposed to the other offerings.

Outside the hospital, the last remnants of snow are melting in the sunlight as the weather begins to warm up. It's still chilly enough one might want to put on a coat, but not so cold a jacket is necessary for wandering around without freezing off one's fingers.

We hope you enjoy your stay.

⏵ heroes return ⏴

As the Quantum Rail train glides to a halt, returning passengers step out onto familiar ground - the train station, right where they had initially begun their mission. When exiting the station, their earpieces vibrate, indicating the automatic download of a detailed map which highlights key locations, transit paths, and notable landmarks. As Aurora promised, she had been working on a few renovations around Etraya! A sleek trolley system now winds through Etraya, following clearly marked pathways through the city bubble to make travel across the city smoother. However, the trolley only moves one way, eternally following the loop Aurora has set it on. And because of this, it takes six hours to complete it's loop all the way around. Don't miss your stop!

Pets and animals have been returned to their usual preferred areas, some awaiting the arrival of their owners, and others keeping to themselves in the forested areas throughout Etraya.

Beyond the small upgrades, things seem relatively unchanged - until one familiar sign catches the eye. One marked by four vertical lines, methodically crossed out one by one: the final slash has now been drawn through. The tally is complete. What it indicates has yet to be made clear, but it has to mean something, right? No one would go through the effort of making an ominous-sounding sign without following through.

⏵ love in the air ⏴

This Valentines Day, Aurora and the companion bots have opted to try something a little different: they have scattered mystery valentines across the city. Hidden within mailboxes, tucked into cafe menus, slipped under doors, on the outside of high windows for those wall-crawlers to spot. There are countless of these little slips of papers, strewn throughout the city. And within each valentine, is a challenge or gesture to complete. Please feel free to make these up yourselves as long as they fit in with the theme!

Some examples include:

Deliver a flower to a stranger.
Write a heartfelt poem for someone.
Share a box of chocolates!
Confess your feelings for another.
Play matchmaker for two people - this can be platonic, or romantic!
Gift a friend with a stuffed animal.
Give five different people a genuine compliment.

While not mandatory, completing five tasks will earn an individual an additional ten points to use towards anything they would like!

Each little Valentine is signed "Your Secret Admirer. ♡", and some of them may even be addressed to specific individuals. Don't be surprised, Eddie, if you see one or two that are specifically addressed to you lurking around your collection of chicken friends!

And while most of these are harmless, some of the valentines cards come with effects for those who come into contact with the paper. Perhaps they thought it was a piece of garbage, or were just kicking it out of the way rather than intending on taking part. It doesn't matter! They get to join in on the fun, too.

Heart Eyes - your pupils literally turn into hearts for a few hours, making it hard to focus on anything other than things (or people) you find attractive.
Love-Struck Stammer - You can only speak in poetic compliments or romantic declarations, regardless of whom you're speaking to.
Chocolate Bliss - Everything feels good. Simple. Easy. As if there's nothing in the world to concern yourself with. You feel happy, without any concerns or worry.
Rose-Tinted Vision - everything looks soft and romantic, as if you're in a romance novel. You know the ones.
Magnetic Attraction - regardless of what you had been doing, you suddenly find yourself unable to leave the side of the person closest to you. Had you been eating chocolates while walking down the street? Well, have fun getting stuck to the guy who'd been out for a jog!
Serenade Syndrome - you find it impossible to resist the urge to sing your words, turning all conversations into love ballads.
Heartstrings - A thread appears, connecting you to someone close by who you share many similarities too. Perhaps you had never met this person before, but the threads tied around your pinky fingers that refuse to let go until you allow yourself to open up to them clearly means you should be a little more familiar with them.

Love is in the air—or maybe just a bit of well-intended chaos! 💕

⏵ NOTES ⏴

Welcome back from the mission, and welcome to Etraya for our newcomers! We've tried to keep this log simple for an easy introduction, as well as some downtime for our mission-goers who worked hard to solve the Quantum Rail mystery.

There is something else going on, but. . . well, no one seems to know what! The computer that had been on the lower floor of the hospital is now missing, and Aurora may seem a little flustered as she flits around Etraya, in search of something.

For all questions relating to this log, please refer to the mod queries comment. All other questions can be directed to the FAQ.

⏵FULL NAVIGATION⏴

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

I've been able to pull together a good little ragtag team in my months here. Bunch of nerds, though. Honestly, good for them because I sure don't have the brains to do half the stuff they seem to be able to do. [Maria wasn't putting herself down for the sake of doing so. she just didn't think anything intellectual was ever going to be her strong point. some people were smart, like Harold and Gorgug. some were strong, obviously like Vander, and she? well, apparently she was good at the talking part. which still struck her as crazy.] I'll give you a glowing review.

[she did enjoy his company, she assumed he enjoyed hers, and that worked well for the both of them.]

You probably have to eat a lot to keep up with all that, huh? [she motions to him. he was a big guy.] It still feels weird we have all of this for free, huh? I don't think I'll get over it. Sometimes I wonder if this is supposed to be some dumb riddle, too.

Are you sure I won't be having to pull them out of trouble too? Unless they are inventors in which case, I suggest we both stand back. [He knew the kind of science and invention that occurred in his city, and it was completely unsanctioned and often off the rails. He had also noted there were a lot of science facilities in this place.] I'm glad I've only showed you all my good assets to pad out the review.

[He was running a finger over the menu; he didn't eat out often as a force of habit. He picked out a few items that seemed interesting to eat and at least once comfort type food. He'd narrow it down from there.]

Protein mostly, especially since I've started exercising hard again since I arrived here. [He had always been a large man, but now he was returning to form. No kids, no responsibility, dark internal thoughts.] Nothing is free. We will pay for it in another way down the line I expect. For now though, we may as well enjoy right?

[His foot shifted to brush against hers again. He was not above a little footsy.]

Luckily, no. Just brains and keeping out of trouble. Don't worry, I won't be making you stretch yourself too thin. [she knew he seemed to rely on her for an easy time and she would keep doing that for him. Maria knew Vander had meant it when he told her she could ask him for help, she'd meant it when she returned the favor, but ultimately she thought she knew what Vander needed from her. it was easy to oblige for Vander.]

Geesh, men and their protein. Always the same with you guys. [she jokes and has picked her strawberry pancakes. simple, to the point, and she could probably finish them. besides she needed a treat after all that.] But you're right. Nothing is. Or simple. [it would be easy for her mind to go to thoughts she didn't want them to head towards and she thinks she should make another joke, try to liven things up.

but then she feels his foot and she smiles.] But some things can be. [her foot moves up to brush along his calf. it doesn't go much higher than that.] So we should just enjoy what we have while we have it? [she's put her menu down, meeting his face and smiling. she would enjoy not being alone right now.]

Are they holed up in one of those scientific buildings then? [He smirked.] Ah, I see, you're wanting to keep my priorities on you, is that it? [It was a tease; he'd protect her even if he wasn't currently on 'a date' with her. She'd been kind to him, and they found an easy camaraderie that he hadn't achieved with anyone else.

He then had to shrug his shoulders helplessly, showing off his broad musculature in the process.] Look, I'm bulking. I need protein for that, though at this rate, I might need another shirt. [He hadn't had the same time on his hands to exercise in many years.] So we take the snippets of joy that we can, right?

[He folded his menu up to indicate that he had finished deciding. His foot remained still for her playful 'assault', but his other foot moved to reply in kind to her other leg.] And how do you tend to enjoy your dates to end?

One of them, yeah. See, smart. They know what they're doing. [at his tease, she shrugs a shoulder, half smile on her lips.] Absolutely. I'd be sad if you got bored of me so quickly. Have to keep the competition away. [it was comforting to know she could joke like this. they could flirt and they didn't think twice. she didn't know it could be that easy.

her eyes go over the muscle and she hums in approval. doesn't even hide that she's checking him out.] Well, happy to be a cheerleader for you. Let you know you're doing great. I'll consider it another snippet of joy.

[Maria was about to answer when one of the companion bots came by to take the orders. this never got any less weird but she put it in and shook her head.] What I wouldn't pay for an actual waitress. [a small murmur before she focuses back on Vander. she'd kept her feet where they were and with a shrug, a carefree smile, finally answers.] At least a kiss is nice, don't you think? They say you shouldn't kiss on the first date but this isn't exactly our first date. And if you know what you want then you should go for it. What about you, charmer?

Yeah, that's way above my level. I serve drinks and talk to people. [He hadn't associated much with the chemists aside from medical treatments and information now and again. He snorted in amusement.] You're a woman of mystery. How could I ever find myself bored of you when I know there are secrets still to be unearthed?

[Despite himself, he sat up just a touch more at her scrutiny, playful or otherwise. It had been awhile since a woman checked him out so boldly. It was not unpleasant.] I've been shaping up, so thanks. Maybe I'll let you watch my workout routine someday.

[He did sit up when the bot arrived, still not used to seeing machines so functional. He too preferred associating with people. He provided his order, which was... four main dishes (and yeah, he asked for breakfast too). Then he returned to resting his cheek on his palm, flashing her a charming smile for the answer.] Ah well, my first ever date I lost my virginity, so... I can't say I've been all that conservative with my affections at times. [He shrugged.] I'll be more than satisfied with a kiss if you're comfortable with one. Gonna have to charm you more, aren't I?

Ah, see. That's why I have to keep up the mystery. Once you know it all, what else do I use to keep you coming around? [it is absolutely meant as a joke though it hits her that may come off a little too self-deprecating.] Other than my charming personality, that is. [there, that landed a little better.]

I'll be on the lookout for a cheerleading outfit, then. Honestly, I've begun to wonder if I should try shaping up a bit. You know, at least defend myself a little better. [after what happened on the train, it was weighing on her. people being hurt for her here was different.] We'll see.

[that is so much food and her eyebrows raise in showing that she is surprised by how much food that is. but hey, he's a big guy. he's bulking up. it makes sense. when they start talking again, she's back to all smiles.] Mm, so you're not a prude. Duly noted. But you want a kiss? I'm honored.

Oh if history has take me anything over the years, it's that there is always a mystery with women. I doubt I'll discover all your secrets soon. [He was also joking. He knew they were taking things easy and care-free, rarely discussing serious topics. At this point, it seemed like what they both needed.] Those charms though. I'll be enamored with those for years.

[He had no idea what a cheerleader outfit actually looked like. It sounded fascinating, though why anyone would need an outfit to cheer anyone was curious.] And just what does this uniform look like, hmmm? [He perked at the other portion though.] Has no one taught you how to punch or self defense? I can.

[When one exercised to the near unhealthy degree he was currently doing, he needed the calories unfortunately. Time spent in his apartment required activity or his thoughts would turn dark.] At least a kiss if I can charm one out of you. No pressure, of course, but you do look very kissable.

I do love your way with words. Bartending suits you well. [it did take a certain kind of charm which Vander had loads of. it was part of what made him so easy to be around.] You really could make a girl forget herself in all the best ways. [and it helped with right now.]

[does Etraya have cheerleading outfits? probably a weird request but she'd figure something out. even if it was just for a laugh.] Usually involves a short skirt that flares out. [she smiles at obvious it is he might like to help teach her to fight.] Nope, nobody. If you're interested then I'd take you up on it. You can help me on my form. [it was a serious offer but of course she had to flirt about it.]

I planned on kissing you at least. You make it hard not to want to kiss you.

Such compliments. Glad you approve of my career choice. Maybe I'll even consider re-entering the field if the establishment is right. [He appreciated that she was enjoying his social side. Their sociability matched up well from the three times that they had met.] That's the point of a date, yeah? Everyone forgets the world beyond this little moment between us.

[Oh well, Vander did not disagree that Maria would wear a short flare skirt well. Her current outfit suited her, but dolled up? He'd be curious to see what that would be.] Tempting. [He nodded his head.] I've taught a lot of self defense over the years. It's an important skill everyone should have. Looks like we have our next date planned already.

[He smirked. Compliments. She knew how to make a guy feel wanted that was for certain.] Geez, that walk home to dropping you off safely at your place is going to be a fun time. I know what I'm looking forward to.

I'm guessing none of the establishments are right here? [they were...choices. she could agree with that much. and none of them quite hit the right feel.] Then am I the only thing on your mind right now?

[if she'd known that she'd be running into Vander, she would have changed her clothes. it wasn't as if she imagined that Vander cared so much about things. but it was nice to look good and know someone appreciated how you looked.] Calling it another date already? I'm a lucky girl.

[if there was anything she was good at, it was this. making a man feel wanted. though in this case, it wasn't fake. she did want him and his company.] Will the walk there be fun or what comes at the end? [she nudges her foot back at his again, smirking back at him.]

They provide drinks, so I won't speak against that. I've been in better and more lively establishments. [The choices were small, and not particularly the types of places he would stay around unless he was desperate or just plain lonely.] Since you decided we were on a date, I haven't been thinking of anything but you.

[He shrugged his shoulders, and he had lived in a place where self defense was common practice. It was far more odd to him that people didn't have an understanding on defending themselves. It was never too late to learn in his opinion.] Well, two of us are opportunists. You want to call it a play date instead?

[He leaned forward across the table, dropping his other arm to rest with the other one already there.] You haven't lend me to believe that any of this wouldn't be fun. And so far, I have not be disappointed. Is there anything that I can do for you to make this a fun time beginning to end?

More lively as in the place is having bar fights, good music, or good company? So many different ways a bar can be lively. Have to admit I prefer the latter. More of a lover than a fighter. [considering she can't fight and all that.] I'm really taking control here when you put it like that. If you have any complaints you should let me know. [not that she thinks he'll have any.]

A play date? Sounds like we're kids off to go play than you coming to teach me self-defense and put your hands on me. [she's laughing as she says it.]

You're a man who knows his way around a good date. What tips could I give? Though you can tell me how you've been doing on the hobby search. I admit I've gotten nowhere.

From personal experience, a good bar can manage all three depending on the time of operating hours. I prefer to avoid fights, but when you mix alcohol in any situations, it's bound to happen. [She definitely was showing him her lover not a fighter side, and he appreciated that. Not everyone had to fight, nor should they have to if they didn't want to. Having to skills didn't mean one had to use them.] No complaints thus far. The night is young and our meals should be arriving any time now.

[He smirked.] Age is a construct, right? We can be as young as we feel. [The weight of their worlds might put years on them regardless.] I'll teach you how to punch first, so honestly, you'll just be hitting me a lot the first session. Depends how long and how much you want to practice.

[She was giving him a lot of credit here. It had been a long time since he was on a date before this.] It seems we're in the same boat. I haven't invested much time in searching, what with the train incident and all. I suppose I'm still in the market for a good hobby to invest my time in. Your opportunity to find one is shrinking.

Guessing your bar managed all three? [it seemed likely with an owner like Vander.] No complaints until the food sucks. But I'll take that as not my fault so still a win. [none of the food here has been bad but well, she never had a chance to experience different types of food back in Silent Hill. not that she'll be talking about that with Vander right now. or any time soon if she can help it.]

Details. [she waves a hand, laughing.] I put my hands on you, then. You lucky man, you. But I'll go with your expertise. How often should you practice a thing like that?

[he had her beat here. absolutely sooner than she'd been on a date.] Are you worried? Deal was you'd have to ask for one with me and we would do it together, if you remember.

Depends on the night. I preferred to avoid bar fights and prioritized the other two. You'd have liked it, I expect. [Vander had spent a long time trying to build up the community with The Last Drop being part of the central hub. Some would call it his stronghold of power, but he hadn't seen it that way.] Ah well, food quality is never something I can complain about. Something better than nothing.

[He too was disinclined to share details of growing up hard and growing up fast on the streets. Food was food, and he had learned to value it as he grew. He had been fortunate being a kid that grew up tall and could wade in to compete for the meals. Others weren't so fortunate. That of course was a topic that would squander the mood of their little date, and he couldn't have that. The whole point was a few hours of escapism with each other.]

It's like any skill, Maria. The more you practice, the more you become proficient. I'd recommend once or twice a week at minimum, but you can also practice on your own or with your friends too. [He could teach the skill, but it was up to her to dedicate the time for it. Or maybe she would use the excuse for more practice to see him. That would be nice.] And I never doubted I was a lucky man where you're involved.

[He shrugged his shoulders, reaching out so she could see his movements and pull back if she wanted to. If she didn't, he'd absolutely caress some hair back to tuck behind her ear.] Do I look worried? I recall the deal. There's still time for us to find something for ourselves. This place is spoiling with opportunities after all.

[He'd fail. Vander intended to on purpose. He suspected Maria might as well.]

I'm sure I would have enjoyed it. Heard the bartender was a good guy to know. [she smiles, making sure they stay away from any topic considering fights because it just feels like that would dive into a topic that might not be fun.

it was comical how they were both trying to stay away from any topic that would ruin the mood. the mood they both so craftfully created together. Maria was supposed to be playful and fun, something she did well in, and it had been something of a role she found comfort in. she didn't want to be negative either. it was easier to try to have fun and much easier with Vander. Maria knew Vander probably appreciated this as well.]

Once or twice a week as a minimum? Feels like I should do more, like you said. [she knew it would be good for her to focus on that as well. Maria didn't want someone to be hurt for her sake again.

between the comment of 'lucky man' and him tucking her hair out of her face, Maria finds herself struggling to find some flirty comment. she was quick to those and while Vander was always nice, never seemed to run out of good things to say, those two things were sweet. she'd kiss him for those things alone, she thinks. her eyes soften and she hums.]

What a lucky woman I am.

[but before anything else can be said from her, the bots are out with their food. well, Maria's plate and Vander's plates. it's a lot of food. impressive, really.]

Oh he was. He had the right combination of pouring drinks, socializing, providing a good time and defending those under his roof. [It was easy to talk about himself in the third person, like that man was someone else. Perhaps it wasn't so far from the truth these days.

He shrugged his shoulders, letting her decide on her own schedule. She might commit to multiple days and then after day one of soreness, reconsider it all.] How about we try it out once or twice and see if I'm the right kind of teacher for you? Everyone learns differently after all.

[His fingers caressed the curve of her earlobe as he tucked the hair and then withdrew afterwards. He offered a wink at her as he sat back in the booth seat, his movements slow and careful to not shove the table too much at her as the food arrived, and he surveyed their bounty. Huh, portions were bigger than expected. Oh well, nothing would go to waste.]

Remember the deal also requires us to be subjected to the whims of the community. I expect a lot of wise-ass comments should we fail and need to appeal to them for suggestion.

Sounds like a great guy. What's he up to now?

[she nods.] Not a bad idea. Who knows, I could be really bad and you get tired of it. [it's mostly a joke. she doesn't really know how she'll be, though. she recalls her short time fighting monsters, using a gun. she hadn't been bad, able to defend herself. but she also was giving Vander an out, even if he didn't seem to want it.

ah, he really is a charmer. she will have to keep on her toes and give it just as good back.]

Oh, I imagine we will be thrown into some laughable situations. Really throwing ourselves out there for ridicule. But there ought to be some good ones in the mix. [she cuts into her strawberry pancakes and honestly, not bad. good, actually. there's a groan of approval.] Mm, god, I needed this treat. I really needed this.

Last I heard, he had to retire to sort some personal stuff out. I could introduce you to him if you're interested.

[Now this was all tongue and cheek, but there were kernels of truth in the explanation. He preferred to keep things light hearted between them, the escapism being a point of grounding for them both it seemed. Maybe this was the crux of their relationship, and he didn't mind it in the least. Of course, their secrets would no doubt emerge now and again.]

Nah, teaching people how to defend themselves is something I've been doing since I was a boy. I never find it boring. [He steadfastly would refuse to take the out. It both meant helping her and they would spend more time together. Win-win in his books.

He picked up his fork and began to dig into the eggs and potatoes and sausage breakfast. He ate quickly and efficiently, like someone who had gone without and knew better than to wait for a meal to be stolen or ruined.] I see a trend of you liking pink and red. Does that span across every aspect of your life, hmmm? [He shrugged.] I've been ridiculed for worse. That part could be fun. Just have to go into it with the right attitude.

Oh, I'm definitely interested. Seems like the kind of guy I might go on a date with. If you think he'd be up for it?

[Maria's assumption this was what Vander would like from their relationship. which suited her just fine. she was good for it. in Maria's mind, she didn't ever see Vander expecting anything serious. even if he had said he would always be there to help her, Maria didn't plan on asking for it from him. not unless it was something simple like teaching her how to defend herself.

though she's happy he wants to help her and as long as he wanted her around, she would stay around.

she laughs.] Guess I do have a theme for myself going on, yeah. But you could say that. Color of passion, right? Fits. [it hadn't been a theme she'd picked for herself but one she was keeping up. she did like it.] I like the upbeat attitude. You're right. We can make a game of that, too.

I think he could be convinced with the right prompting. I'll introduce you two and maybe you'll hit it off. I hope you invite me to the wedding if it works out.

[All tongue and cheek for that last part. If she was going to play the game then so would he. They had always managed good banter, and this date wasn't disproving him of that ideation either.

He knew from interactions that they were both complicated people. He had perceived how they side-stepped and danced around certain subjects, teasing about secrets or not picking up on threads of potential conversation from hinted breadcrumbs of seriousness. He did wonder about her secrets, but this was all in due time. Trust needed to be earned.]

I like it. The colour choice suits you. [He quirked his lip at her words.] And just how passionate of a person are you, hmmm? I can see the upbeat attitude.

Oh, you think he'd like me enough for that? Now I really got to meet him.

[much like everything else, Maria doesn't take the last part all too seriously. Maria assumed much of what Vander would be telling her would usually be a joke, a flirt at most.

when it came to Vander, she didn't think she would ever mind hearing his problems. though telling him her own seemed impossible at the moment. not something she should weigh him down with. who needed to hear about a woman's existential identity and self-actualization issues? at least not after the train.

easier to flirt and tease and play.] I can say I've never been told I'm lacking in passion. Probably too much, if we're being honest. How about you?

Who knows. We won't know until you two meet and hit it off, right? I'll tell him to clean up nice to provide the right first impression.

[He was still working his way through his food, picking from one plate to the next as he tried different styles of food than he was used to. There was no way that he was finishing it all, especially with Maria distracting him with her playful banter.

Of course, he expected any actual serious talk wouldn't be a public occurrence. Perhaps once he dropped her off at home, earned himself that kiss, they might have a serious conversation of their actual expectations for whatever this was.

He chuckled as he wiped his mouth on the back of his hand and gestured at her with his fork.] That I will believe. You probably know how to stir those close to you. [His smile and tone of voice turned mysterious.] I've been told once my blood is stirred, I'm a very passionate person.

Make sure to put in a good word for me, too. I want to really impress this guy.

[Maria was able to finish her pancakes easily. it was a good portion but she hadn't realized how hungry she was until the food had touched her lips. seeing how much food Vander had left, she assumed even he couldn't finish all of it. but well, food never seemed in short supply here.

she sits back in the booth, smiling.] Stir them? Yes, that's one word for it. But I wonder if I can stir your blood at all? I'll have to try and see.

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