❪ event ❫ THE DESCENT: PART ONE.

[natha]

THE PROLOGUE     Your sleep on the night of the 15th is not a restful one, unfortunately. It’s unclear whether you are in a state of half-wakefulness, or dreaming. The voices you hear certainly sound very real. What is it, Sael? —Is everyone asleep?! Every one, yes. Sael, it appears you do not have good news to deliver...? N-No! I don’t know how it slipped past us, but there’s something powerful coming this way. Something hostile. I can barely keep the core systems online! ... I don't know what to do... I see... and we cannot protect Thesa and Alria in addition to transferring the Refugees to Olympia. This force, they waited for this moment. They knew I have been Intervening, and that I have become weak from such Interventions— ... We've been had. It cannot be helped. To save the Refugees on the Stations, we must eject the awoken unto El Nysa. My remaining energy shall go into shielding Thesa— left defenseless, every being we have saved on this station will perish... Sael, where is the ideal location for the landing? Hmm. There aren’t any people within a ten mile radius of The Outlook, and there shouldn’t be any for a few more days. I think that’s the best location right now. Very well. Instruct Zasere and Roman to begin preparations for an emergency eject. This is the only way we can save everyone. I am counting on you to ward off the enemy on the space front. The rest... is up to our Refugees. The alarms are blaring. It shouts against your eardrums, calling you to wake again. This time, you are in new pod, strapped down completely and cushioned tightly against the walls. In truth, you had no idea when you’d gone to sleep, but it is reminiscent of when you had been saved from the force of the Storm. A voice greets you when you come to, while the conversation between Darma and Sael is still fresh on your mind. Despite their voices playing like an old tune in your memory, you still know it is something that happened. Something has gone terribly wrong. You hear Darma speak, her voice loud in your head. Fellow Refugee, I wake you with regrettable news. A force equal to our own is attempting to engage Thesa, no doubt to steal the souls contained here. My energy is near depleted with this last Intervention, so I cannot send you to the grounds safely as originally intended. However, there is hope yet.This power shall instead shield Thesa and Alria — and believe in me when I swear no one shall be hurt. Your loved ones are safe with us. —Unfortunately, that is at your expense. Your descent will not be an easy one. This pod that contains you shall pierce through El Nysa's atmosphere and land you on an island west of Olympia, simply called The Outlook. Travel east. Find the West Outpost, then continue east until you find the Olympian North Gate. There is a method to this madness. You shall be sent in waves. The inhumanly strong shall be first. The parachute will soften the landing, but I am aware of all your capabilities. The first wave will survive the drop, and will work tirelessly to secure the others. Find your bearings, and ensure the safety of the second wave. They are the healers and medics. Catch their pods, ease their landings, make certain that they shall not be harmed, because you will need them for your wounds. The third wave are your strongmen. They shall help clear the debris and take people to safety, making way for the fourth wave, those can conjure magic to help. Bring everyone to a safe distance. A supply drop will follow soon after; it shall contain tents and tools that will be useful for the long night. The fifth and sixth waves are largely vulnerable humans. With your combined efforts, you shall survive this great misfortune. Forgive us, Refugee. Leave the Moons to us, my promise to you is still in tact— focus on what you can do for others like you. Helping at least two (2) Refugees will earn you one (1) Natha REP. Threads must be AC length to qualify, and can be submitted HERE by JULY 31st. THE DESCENT     FIRST WAVE. The instructions are clear. Those who are a part of the First Wave should be equipped with physical strength and fortitude to survive the drop or the power to regenerate and heal their own wounds. While the pods are already designed to cushion some of the impact, as this is the first group, it will likely to be the most jarring. In all of the waves, some of the pods will malfunction and offer no cushion at all. They will be expected to quickly find their bearings. Their mission isn’t simply just landing, after all. The first wave will be expected to help the next wave, and the wave after that. Whether through their abilities or brute strength, they will be expected to help soften the landing for those who are falling. They will also be expected to pry open hatches, carry people to safety, and to just... survive. It’s not always easy being first. SECOND WAVE. Within the next hour, it’s time for the Second Wave to make their descent. You were selected based upon your aptitude for healing and/or being able to administer first aid. Perhaps you can help the tired and weary. Maybe those who have landed have have strength, but no stamina. Either way, it may be unwise to exhaust all their abilities at once. The night is long, and you may want to conserve their energy for the next waves to come. At least you’ll have help in getting settled. THIRD WAVE. Akin to the First Wave, the Third Wave will possess some durability, and some manner of strength, making you a reliable ally. Especially in a time of crisis... Or so we hope. While the landing is tough, and some of you may need first aid. As soon as you’re all healed up, you’ll have no time to dawdle. Your help is required. “Please help those still trapped in pods. Carry those unconscious to safety. Lift debris, and rescue all you can.” May be a vague message still stuck in the back of your head. Something whispered to you while you were just waking. Well, might as well roll with it. It’s the best shot you have, after all. FOURTH WAVE. Those in the Fourth Wave, as Darma projects, were selected due to the versatility of their abilities. No one expects one man to do the same as the next. Rather, that’s precisely the point: to be different. To be able to accomplish something unique. While one individual may be blessed with powers that assist in putting out fires, another may have the ability to shield those from oncoming debris. Maybe one even has the ability to channel all of these. Regardless, it’s up to you and your quick wits to see what tasks are open. It’ll take some coordination, especially as there are more people mixing into the fray, but, you can do it, can’t you? FIFTH WAVE. If you are in the Fifth Wave it is likely that you have a specific power or ability. One that isn’t easily channeled or called upon. Or, perhaps, you were merely placed here for insurance. Whatever the case if, your expertise will presently be put to the test. Maybe you’re quite proficient in survival skills, and you’re already eyeing the supplies that were dropped between the Fourth Wave and now. Goods all ready to be salvaged. Okay, maybe some can’t, but as they say, “it’s the thought that counts.” Besides, the injured from earlier certainly need a space to rest, and camp isn’t going to make itself. Regardless, maybe you feel more comfortable joining in the efforts to assist those who still require it. Whatever it is, you are sure to find your place and use. Darma obviously held the same faith. FINAL WAVE. The Final Wave is fortunate in a variety of ways. With Thesa Station a bit more stabilized, Darma utilizes the last bit of her powers in insuring that these last remaining pods are met with the softest landing, right beside the fifth, that is. The fragility of life is nothing she is unfamiliar with, after all. Still, that isn’t to say nothing is expected of you. Most of the individuals that have dropped earlier will likely be exhausted. An hour stretched between each one, makes several hours for the first couple of waves. They'll need a place to relax. You will act as the final group of helpers. Settle into whatever role feels best for you. Are you an excellent cook? Great at rationing supplies? Perhaps, you have a secret skill in ______ that might come in handy here? Or, maybe, despite the gentler landing you still managed to get hurt. The sky's the limit, and you got this! Meanwhile, in the distant kingdom of Olympia, the Empress and her loyal subject discuss matters late into the night... I’ll have the results of that dragon toxin study ready for you soon, Your Highness. I just need a few helpers to— oh wow, is that a meteor shower? Oh yes, it appears so. How beautiful.. hehe. Let us thank Thesa for this blessing. GATHER YOUR BEARINGS     All in all, the descent lasts for nearly seven hours. After the deployment of the last wave of refugees, it’s only natural that you may be feeling pretty worn out. A. Within the remains of the pods, Refugees will find basic camping supplies such as small tents, sleeping bags, and compasses. Not all of the supplies remain intact, thanks to the impact of the crash. But, sharing resources will ensure there is enough for everyone to rest for the night. Can you really in good conscience leave that stranger next to you without shelter? B. Although you may be tired after such a life-threatening ordeal, there is still work to be done to ensure your survival. Fortunately, it works out because now there are plenty of empty hands. There are stray debris and metal parts that should be collected and disposed of. There's firewood that needs to be collected, and campfires to upkeep. The nights in the Outlook are particularly chilly, and so it will be imperative to keep warm! C. Your clothes are tattered or too bloodied to sleep on with comfortably. Fortunately, Darma thought ahead. There will be various types of clothing provided, mostly robes that resemble her own in earthy tones, all to help them camouflage you for your next big adventure. FINAL OOC NOTE     This INTRO event will be broken up into three parts! Please keep this in mind when plotting your threads/tag load. PART 2 will be posted on JULY 18TH and PART 3 on JULY 22ND, at 6 PM EST. In the event of CAPTCHA, we will be providing an overflow. In the event of a second CAPTCHA, players are advised to move threads to an overflow post on their character journals. These threads remain eligible for AC, AC Rewards, and REP. The NETWORK is currently down, as Sael must concentrate all of his efforts on warding off the invading force. Characters may still message each other's personal IC inboxes. Submit two (2) AC-eligible threads from this log for one (1) Natha Orbiter REP point here by JULY 31ST. Recommended Listening: Alex & TOKYO Rose QUICK NAV premise ● faq ● world ● map ● reputation ● npcs taken ● reserves ● application calendar ● hiatus/drops ● modbox [ FULL NAVIGATION ] elnysa nysalogs nysaisles nysaooc elnyan

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[juniberries]

[Her flightsuit is made to survive the cold, lonely vacuum of space, so while she feels gross and sweaty following the descent and putting herself through heavy-lifting, it remains on, even as she seated overlooking a campfire warming the surrounding area.

She's about to get up to get more wood to help stoke the fire, when she's stopped by a stranger, looking to the offered robe. Allura smiles, holding her hands up.]

Thank you, but I am quite all right. [And, taking note that this woman isn't wearing any clothes...she blinks.] You...are you not cold?

[fisherwife]

Are you sure...? [To her the flightsuit doesn't look like it offers much in the way of warmth and protection--is it something from her world that helps, or is she saying it just to try and appear tough so someone else can get the chance to be warm? Either seems plausible at this point.

The question makes her blink and her eyes flicker to Allura's ears with some uncertainty. She'd thought maybe she was a Hylian, but maybe Mipha was wrong? Then again, even Hylians can't be expected to know everything about a Zora's biology and all.]

Where I live, it's quite far north and rather high up so it's often a little cold. Though, I suppose being cold in the water and cold exposed to the air is rather different... Still, I should be alright. [She tilts her head, considering] If it gets too cold, I'll find something to warm myself with though, I promise that.

I hope that alleviates some of your worry...?

[juniberries]

Positive. [Her smile remains, and although her answer is quite sure in tone, she does cross her arms. Not necessarily to abate the chill, but more to keep herself grounded. But as she notes this woman look to her ears, said ears twitch slightly with idle curiosity, and Allura cannot help but wonder if that's a look of uncertain familiarity in this young woman's eye.

Does she know of her people? Or is she confusing her for another...? She certainly doesn't recognize this alien creature, although Lance and Hunk did tell her of the merpeople they helped while they had been separated.

But, in response to her explanation:]

It does help. It was just--well, you're wearing very little clothing. [She glances down for a tick, before righting her gaze back up at Mipha.] I was going to gather some more wood for the fire. That may help others with the chill.

We can look together if you'd like?

[fisherwife]

[Mipha also glances down at herself, as if surprise by the revelation of her lack of clothing.] Oh... [It hadn't really occurred to her that it might come off as strange--No Zora wore clothes, after all, and at home everyone just sort of knew and accepted that. Mipha smiles sheepishly] I suppose, sometimes, it's hard to forget the old habits of home.

[Still, Allura's offer is a good idea and she nods enthusiastically] I would love to. Oh-- Forgive me, I didn't introduce myself. [She bows her head a little in polite greeting] I am Princess Mipha, of the Zora. Pleased to meet you.

[juniberries]

[Allura holds her hands up, almost as though to wave away her half-baked comment about the lack of clothing.] Of course! I completely understand. And in fact, it is always best to do what's most comfortable and what reminds you of home.

I have met all sorts of people who don't wear much clothing.

[That...comes out a bit more awkward than she likely intended, but this woman is good-natured enough, and at the introduction and mention of being a Princess, Allura seems to almost brighten at the response. Her smile turns warm, and she clasps her hands in front of her, bowing her head in turn in a similar gesture of greeting and polite reverence for the fellow Princess.]

It is good to meet you, Princess Mipha. I am Princess Allura of the planet Altea; I apologize for not having introduced myself sooner.

[fisherwife]

[I have met all sorts of people who don't wear much clothing.

Oh. Oh Allura...

Mipha smiles anyhow in a way that suggest she's trying not to laugh.] What interesting stories you must have.

[Oh another princess!! Mipha immediately thinks that she should introduce Allura and Zelda to each other too.] Oh no, it's alright, please don't apologize. Everything's been a little... Overwhelming. There can be a lot of forgiveness for breaches in protocol and manners here.

Also, please feel free to simply call me 'Mipha.' [A moment of hesitation and then she look a bit sheepish] I had been hoping you were from my planet, truthfully. I have met very few with ears like yours'. Everyone else's seems to be round.

[juniberries]

[Look she's tired, she still thinks she's failed at saving her universe, and she's talking to a near-naked fish lady she's trying her best.

But still, she smiles back, with her best attempt at ignoring the fact that she sounded tongue-tied and not the trained diplomat her father had raised her to be.]

My friends and I have certainly been through a lot. Even before arriving here.

[She tries to ignore the pang that settles deep in her chest at the thought; the others have not wakened from their slumber, and she wonders what Keith and Lance are up to.

But admittedly, it's good to be in the presence of another princess. It's a strange sense of normalcy that brings her back to the gatherings that used to be held on Altea.]

Well, in that case, Mipha, you may also call me 'Allura.' [Her expression turns to that of curiosity, and at the mention of her ears, they twitch slightly in tandem. She's made some friendly and not-so-friendly acquaintances with others who look similar to her, but they referred to themselves as Elves. She wonders if Mipha is from a similar planet.

But at the mention of rounded ears...well. She can't help herself.] I've noticed the same. I should start getting used to it but-- they're hideous. [She makes a bit of a face.] I still cannot imagine how difficult it must be to hear with such round ears.

But it seems as though there are many refugees here that either look like my people, or know of others that resemble my kind. [There's a bit of a long pause and her expression grows a bit distant.] Altea has been gone for over ten-thousand years. Well before the Storm.

[fisherwife]

Yes, it's the same for mine... [She trails off, unable to help her mind from drifting to them.] Fortunately, or unfortunately, they're all still asleep currently. I hope once everything settles... I hope we can do good here, so there's something I can be proud to show them when they wake up. Them, and my family.

[She trails off, shaking her head a little. Maybe it's a bit naive or too broad to wish for, but...

Mipha can't help but laugh a little behind her hand at the face Allura makes.] Yes, I understand. I keep thinking there are other Hylians around, but it seems my dear friend Princess Zelda might be the only one awake. It's interesting, though. I enjoy meeting so many different people that look similar but can be so different.

[Oh. She sorta understands that as well, a little bit, and she reaches out to lay a comforting hand on Allura's arm] I'm truly sorry.

[juniberries]

With all us refugees banding together, I am certain we will do some good. [And she has some veiled hope there may be a remedy to fix what the Storm has destroyed, or at the very least, stop it before it destroys anyone else's world.

If it's naive, then Allura is the same. It is an important hopefulness.]

Is your family asleep as well?

[She hadn't thought to look for her family. They were...well, those were ghosts she learned not to chase.

But despite the weight of her inquiry, she does manage to laugh a bit in turn to Mipha's laugh, face breaking into a smile.]

Another Princess? I would like to meet her. [But quickly, that smile fades. Not completely, but it's softer, and she appreciates the comforting touch at her arm. But despite the small swell of emotions, she does keep herself together, giving the image of strength and unfaltering.]

It--is why I am hoping we can stop whatever force this Storm is. It may not be the same as what had destroyed my planet, but...as you said, I hope we do good here. In this universe.

[fisherwife]

[She nods solemnly, clasping her hands in front of her.] My baby brother, and my father. I miss them terribly. [Mipha shakes her head] It's been-- Many years since I've been able to speak with them or see them. It seems I will have to wait a little while longer still.

[But she looks up and listens, looking quietly pleased with Allura's answer.] Yes, just so. I don't know how we could fight this Storm, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't do our utmost to try. With so many different people from all different worlds, surely we can find an answer together.