WEEK ZERO: MINGLE

[retellers]

WEEK ZERO: MINGLE (43 remain) Rise and shine, gremlins. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and it's the start of a new week. Speaking of new, if participants turn on their PHS, they'll notice another section available. There's also an alert for a new message, titled TEAM ASSIGNMENT. Opening it will reveal which Leader they have been assigned to. Furthermore, at the corner of the PHS screen is an icon of an animal, depending on who their Leader is. It is visible only to them and no one else. That's not the only change, though. Participants may not notice at first—or perhaps they will?—but sooner or later, they may realize that they're... missing something? Strange. Three Leaders can be found around the area, open (?) to approach. If participants want to speak to them more privately, or to an absent Leader, it looks like they'll have to go through another channel. Which is to say, the Planetarium is now open! Finally, for the rest of the week, the participants will inexplicably have the urge to be physically affectionate. That person you just met days ago? Time to cuddle! This complete stranger you ran into? It sure is tempting to hold their hand. This urge can range anywhere from minor to impossible to ignore, depending on the situation. Enjoy your bonding!

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Comments

[antaressnipe]

I was concerned what any combination of alcohol and increased affection would do to us.

[it's not you guys, he swears, he just knows humans and gods alike love to get crazy.]

[lecarre]

Ah... yes that is true. The affection thing has been, um... embarrassing. [also alarming.]

[antaressnipe]

Yes... I've taken to remaining in the forest moreso than usual for that reason.

[Can't hug a horse if he's not there!]

[lecarre]

[Ah, well...]

I certainly cannot blame you for that. Does it not get lonely out in the forest, though...?

[antaressnipe]

No.

[Spoken honestly]

I'm used to some degree of solitude. [And then a pause, wondering if he should say more before deciding it's not necessary. He smiles at her instead]

My avoidance has nothing to do with any discomfort. I only meant to spare anyone embarrassment.

[lecarre]

[Something about that sounds kind of sad... but he moves on so quickly, she can't say anything.]

Ah... that is very kind of you. You are so calm and level-headed, though... I imagine it would be less embarrassing to hug you, Mister Archer, than some other people.

[antaressnipe]

[... He can't deny that, actually. Even the worst-case scenario is going to be met with mild exasperation on his end]

I hadn't considered it from that angle... so long as the recipient did not mind my form.

[He's still getting used to the idea that no one is afraid of him like this]

[lecarre]

[He's so nice... it's something that really sticks with her every time she speaks with him.]

Why would someone be bothered by that? [She giggles a little.] I am the least suited to all of the strange stuff that happens here, but I find you to be very reassuring, Mister Archer.

How you look does not change that at all.

[antaressnipe]

This group does seem to be rather... accepting in that regard.

[Looking amused by this, honestly]

I suppose many years of less than ideal reactions have tempered my expectations somewhat, though I do appreciate the consideration you all have shown me.

[lecarre]

[She frowns a little at that.]

Are people truly that cruel...? I'm so sorry to hear that those have been your experiences.

[antaressnipe]

It's alright. I think as I've mentioned before, most centaurs would have been rightfully feared where I come from.

[... but he doesn't want to leave on such an unpleasant note, so the corners of his smile pick up]

Be that as it may, it's also on me to accept whatever kindness I am given. It wouldn't do to be stuck on past grievances. It's enough that you are all kind to me now.