futurologists: (Default)
Hathaway. ([personal profile] futurologists) wrote in [community profile] thirstology2018-04-01 12:05 am
Entry tags:

TEST DRIVE MEME

FANTASTIC MR. FOX


Welcome to Azeria, a small single-biome planet covered almost entirely by deep, mossy forests. The natives of Azeria, a sapient foxlike species called Vulphytes, have reached out to Hathaway for help in repelling a planetary invasion. Other Vulphyte tribes have sent word of dangerous aliens descending in silver machines and laying waste to the forest, killing and capturing Vulphytes and animals in their wake.

Hathaway analysts have calculated that the Merging is to blame for this sudden invasion; before, these two nearly identical universes didn't see each other, but now that they are one, these strangers are suddenly planetary neighbors. The aliens, seeing a new planet, must be searching for colonization prospects, while the Vulphytes are helpless against their spacefaring weaponry.
FOR NEW VOLUNTEERS.
After the freshly-recruited volunteers (i.e., newbies) are welcomed into Hathaway and given time to prepare on the spaceship Headquarters, they are sent via controlled interdimensional rift to the planet Azeria. On arrival, their magitek device announces the parameters of the mission: protect the Vulphytes and drive back the invaders.

FOR OPHELIA VETERANS.
Those who have already completed Mission: Hanabira are welcome to continue their leave aboard Headquarters, with Imogen sending them a message about an elective mission opportunity. Ophelia members who are interested need only head to the rifting pad on the upper deck, and they will be brought to the planet Azeria to assist the new recruits on their first mission.
On greeting the Hathaway agents, the Vulphytes will initially be very awkward and surprised, or as awkward and surprised as sapient foxes can appear. The Vulphytes speak telepathically, and eventually a spokesfox explains the cause of their discomfort: the invading aliens are humans, just like most of you.

PROMPTS

Your mission is simple: protect the Vulphytes, forests, and native animals from the invading humans. It's not necessary to kill all the invaders (unless you want to), simply keep them from taking the planet for their own and do a good enough job to persuade them never to come back. Of course, the invaders are a bit... forceful in their methods, so it's up to you.


ONE PREPARATIONS.
The Vulphytes live in a cluster of burrows which are unfortunately not large enough for anything human-sized to visit, but the presence of non-aggressive aliens (that's you!) is enough to get the majority of them to pop out and curiously observe. The Vulphytes are variably black, grey, or red, with fur transitioning to moss along their backs; animals you might see in the forest, including deer, rabbits, and owls, have a similarly moss-covered look.

The Vulphytes will take awhile to warm up to anyone who is human (or those who visibly look human), their telepathic tones suspicious as they ask questions about their loyalties, where they're from, and what their homeworlds are like. Those who are clearly not human will receive a much warmer reception, the Vulphytes asking curious questions and the Vulphyte kits trailing behind in fuzzy little rows.

When the invaders' silver machines -- spaceships -- become visible in the sky, through breaks in the tree canopy, the Vulphytes look skyward and begin to howl. It's a pre-battle ritual, one of them explains, and characters are invited to join in: howl to the sky, to your enemies, and get ready to fight.

TWO THE INVASION.
The silver spaceships of the invaders crash down through the trees, sending animals fleeing in all directions. The Vulphytes stay put, snarling in the direction of the noise and waiting for the invaders to come to them. If you'd like, you can rush forward and head them off -- or stay and fight alongside the foxes.

Just as the Vulphytes claimed, the invaders are human. They are dressed in armored space suits, the visors on their helmets obscuring their faces and reflecting the forest all around. Their weapons are various types of laser guns, though a few are holding axes that have laser blades, which they use to start chopping down trees as their compatriots march toward the Vulphyte dens.

The invaders are surprised to see people here, but they're not interested in talking: they open fire on anyone they see, not recognizing any of the recruits as their people and thus pegging them immediately as enemies. Though they're aggressive, they're not suicidal; if a single invader encounters too much violence or are outnumbered, they'll run back to their compatriots for reinforcements, so it's best to dispatch them quickly (or prevent them for running for help in some other way).

Once the invaders reach the Vulphyte dens, the foxes fight viciously, swarming individuals in a flurry of claws and snarling teeth. Kill the invaders or simply give them enough trouble to make them retreat for good, it's up to you. But either way, look after your furry/mossy hosts; despite their telepathic way of communication, the Vulphytes don't possess any magical abilities, so they'll need to be looked after in the face of laser weapons.

THREE BABYSITTER'S CLUB.
The baby Vulphytes are in the greatest amount of danger from the invading humans, being entirely unable to defend themselves and uncertain of what's actually going on. Hathaway has been tasked with rescuing them from their dens and whisking them away to safer areas away from the fighting where they can be cared for until the fighting is over. The only problem is that baby Vulphytes are... well, babies.

They're quite upset by all the ruckus, yowling in a way that resembles crying, and aren't exactly happy to be taken away by strangers they don't know. In fact, some of them might try to make a great escape, so you'd better be quick! Those who make it to a safe area will need consoling and, once that's done, entertainment. They'll also need their caretakers to make sure no invaders sneak up on them -- since some are hidden in the woods. It's a big job, but you can handle it, right?

FOUR VICTORY CELEBRATIONS.
Once the invaders are finally chased off, everyone gathers together to celebrate. The Vulphytes bow (as well as a fox can) as the team enters and apologize for their uncertainty before; they see now that many of you are nothing like the aliens who threatened them, despite your similar looks. They'd like you all to stay and celebrate, if you have time.

The celebrations are... a bit different than most might be used to; it's definitely not a human party. There are games with handmade balls of packed moss, which the Vulphytes seem to love. In fact, they go crazy for Fetch, a game they were never introduced to before due to their tragic lack of opposable thumbs. They "sing" for the team in howls, a rare example of adults not communicating telepathically.

As for the team, they receive a congratulatory message from Imogen on their magitek suggesting they take the rest of the celebration to meet and greet with the unfamiliar faces. There won't be much time to do so back at Headquarters, I'm afraid, she adds. Drakstaden awaits, darlings!

FIVE CHIT-CHAT.
It's your standard network option. Make battle plans, chat about how cute the foxes are, or share good hiding places. No matter what, you get one username to identify you and one only -- if you don't enter one, it will default to your real name (for example, Voldemort's would be tomriddle.) Choose wisely... or make it assfarts69, if that's your thing. More information on the jewelcomms can be found on the devices guide.

SIX WILDCARD.
Do whatever the heck you want! Go pick wildflowers. Climb a tree. Hunt animals. Loot innocent fox dens, you monster. The world is your oyster.


OOC NOTES

Welcome to the second test drive meme of Futurology Season 2! This test drive will function as an optional mini-mission for both new and current characters, similar in feel to the missions we have in-game but on a much smaller scale. Threads on this test drive are game canon by default unless one of the participants would like to retcon it. Current characters may use TDM threads for non-!plot AC proofs.

Both test drivers and current characters are welcome to top level! While current characters are allowed to tag other current characters, we ask that you please make an effort to be welcoming to test drivers as well!

Since incoming characters currently don't have official specializations, we have no specialized prompts. However, feel free to play as if your character is level 1 of whichever specialization you would like to choose.

Questions about the game in general can be directed to the FAQ.

If you've been with us before, you might notice things look a little different around here. Make sure you check out the welcome page for the basic rundown of how your character joined up with Hathaway. For further information about the game, the full navigation has all the links you'll need.

Upcoming Events (Futurology runs on timezone UTC):
  • 01 April: Reserves open.
  • 07 April: Open apps begin. Apps for new characters will close when all slots are filled or on 15 April.
  • 08 April: The dossier for the next mission, Drakstaden, is released.
  • 12 April: Welcome/CR Meme.
  • 15 April: Mission: Drakstaden begins. Apps close.
deemed: (where joy should reign)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-03 03:32 am (UTC)(link)
[Odinson finds some food and drink and greets those he knows. He hasn't been away overlong but it's good to connect all the same. He doesn't take long with it, moving on to a quiet spot, taking a seat on a fallen tree.

He looks over to his shadow-] Feeling shy, brother? I'll not tell anyone if you're here to cry on my shoulder.
selfimage: — ᴍᴄᴋᴇʟᴠɪᴇ — (Hang on to yourself.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-04 01:30 pm (UTC)(link)
[ the form flickers and Loki passes through the shadows. the next time Odinson looks up, Loki's leaning on a nearby tree. he's decked out as usual: green coat, horns, armor, the whole shebang, but his expression looks a little sour. ]

Please, I'd rather give you a jab with my elbow.

[ he doesn't sound too happy, either. ]

You've returned, I see.
deemed: (baby don't)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-05 12:57 am (UTC)(link)
You'll have to get closer to elbow me. [At least it's clear how Loki's feeling, and Odinson can at least guess at why. His departure had been sudden, with no time for farewells or messages left to say where and why he'd vanished. He can't exactly blame Loki for not feeling thrilled out it.

He sighs, tired.]
It's good to see you again, brother.
selfimage: — ɢᴀʀʙᴇᴛᴛ — (Maggie's farm.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-07 08:33 pm (UTC)(link)
[ it's not like he'd never see his brother again—he knew he would. Thor and him were inseparable in the eyes of the multiverse, but regardless, he lost something close to him, and decided to be sour about it.

it was always easier to be sour with Thor, even if what happened wasn't his fault.
]

I suppose I could say the same. [ "missed you, too." ] I've been taking care of your affairs while you've been gone.

You're welcome, I guess.
deemed: (stay on these roads)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-08 01:45 am (UTC)(link)
And for that, I and my affairs thank you. [It's worrying to consider what exactly Loki has been up to. His brother, when upset, can be particularly volatile.

But whatever affairs Loki has taken care of, Odinson finds that isn't what concerns him most right now. After all, he assumes there's nothing too terrible for his brother to meddle with. No, it's this sour attitude and what exactly Loki needs that has his attention. Perhaps another hug is in order?]


Did the Empresses wed, in the end?
selfimage: — ᴍᴄᴋᴇʟᴠɪᴇ — (You've got a habit of leaving.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-08 12:59 pm (UTC)(link)
[ well, he does look like he's been pet the wrong way. ]

They did.

[ a pause, and then he continues. ]

There was an assassination attempt that was halted due to some active hostiles. [ Loki told them to wait for something to fight for, or no one would take them seriously. he'll always have a soft spot for rebels, with or without a cause. ] Everything turned out as it should. The mission was a success.
deemed: (we shall meet)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-10 06:16 am (UTC)(link)
We'll have to celebrate that later, then. [He grins, patting the flask at his hip that Loki will recognise.]
selfimage: — ɢᴀʀʙᴇᴛᴛ — (Under the god.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-11 08:46 pm (UTC)(link)
[ there's a little frown that shows Loki is still sore, but contemplating the olive branch.

...


...


...

finally, he sighs.
]

Fine, fine—we'll celebrate later. We do have a multiverse to save right now.

[ actually, there's been something that's bugging him a little. ]

Thor?
deemed: (baby don't)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-11 09:02 pm (UTC)(link)
[The grin stays but his shoulders ease.

Might as well start on the food he's brought with him-]


Mm?
selfimage: — ᴍᴄᴋᴇʟᴠɪᴇ — (The heart's filthy lesson.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-11 09:08 pm (UTC)(link)
[ they hadn't talked about this, and for good reason. Loki wasn't willing to give the answer that he was about to ask of Thor. it felt unfair, and he supposed there were other means he could use of acquiring the information.

but for a trust that still stood fragile after hardship, it seemed less of a time for games.
]

What did Hathaway promise you for your services?

[ he knows what they promised him. ]
deemed: (we shall meet)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-11 09:15 pm (UTC)(link)
[He pauses before answer, primarily because he's eating but also because it takes a moment to remember. He'd have volunteered for nothing, but they pressed him for a task.]

Wells for those on Earth who lack water. [He considers asking Loki what he'd asked for, but the odds of getting a straight answer are slim.] Why?
selfimage: — ᴍᴄᴋᴇʟᴠɪᴇ — (If there is something.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-11 09:21 pm (UTC)(link)
[ after everything that's happened to Thor, he's thinking of the people of Midgard. that's disgusting and admirable, Loki hates and loves it.

big idiot.
]

I should be asking you that.

[ do you worry about what I asked for? ]
deemed: (stay on these roads)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-11 09:25 pm (UTC)(link)
[He's aware of how it seems; that Loki is highly unlikely to have asked for something so altruistic.]

They would't let me join until I asked for something. [An easy shrug follows.] It seemed within their power.

[There are other things he wants, his tone suggests, that they couldn't give him.]
selfimage: — ᴍᴄᴋᴇʟᴠɪᴇ — (Trying to get to heaven.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-11 10:51 pm (UTC)(link)
[ no, it's not in his nature to do anything so selfless. while he wanted to stay away from Asgard, he also saw opportunity. ]

And to all the things not in their power, I suppose. [ but Thor was never one to do anything but lay something out, not work his way around it. ] No one but you can do that other thing.
deemed: (these skies restrain)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-12 07:17 am (UTC)(link)
[That gets a non-committal hm. It's not exactly a topic he wants to dwell on here and now, freshly returned to the group.]

Don't ask if they've done it. I don't know.
selfimage: — ɢᴀʀʙᴇᴛᴛ — (Baby grace (a horrid cassette).)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-14 03:19 pm (UTC)(link)
[ sore, still. of course, he didn't expect Thor to be over his loss so quickly.

yet—
]

Would you accept it, if they could?

[ he's careful about his wording there. ]
deemed: (we shall meet)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-15 03:20 am (UTC)(link)
No. [This is something he has thought on.]

I do not... this is my problem. Even if there were an easy option, I would not take it.
selfimage: — ɢᴀʀʙᴇᴛᴛ — (Yassassin.)

[personal profile] selfimage 2018-04-15 05:42 pm (UTC)(link)
[ there's an exasperated sigh. ]

Sometimes the easy option is there for a reason, you know. It's your problem, but that doesn't mean you have to be so Od damned alone about it.

...

Don't be dad, Thor. It's a horrible look on you.
deemed: (stay on these roads)

[personal profile] deemed 2018-04-16 10:56 am (UTC)(link)
[That earns Loki a dirty look. They both know how little he enjoys being compared to Odin. He flicks a piece of food at him for good measure.]

You're free to help. There. Now it's our problem both.