WEEK ZERO: ARRIVAL

[retellers]

WEEK ZERO: ARRIVAL (43 remain) Whatever each character was doing—chatting with friends, going to bed, saving the world—ceases. In fact, it's likely nothing more than a groggy memory now, as they open their eyes to unfamiliar surroundings. Apparently, they took a nap right in the middle of a small town, plopped outside on the paved road. Ow? Oh, but it looks like they've been given a goodie bag. Everyone likes gifts, right? Inside, it contains: - a single random one of the following headbands and sparklers - packets of tea - one unlabeled pill - a rock that resembles the galaxy - if they're of age, a mini bottle of alcohol; if they're underage, a can of Mountain D*w Baja Blast instead - a singular condom - a single random one of these pillows (how did this fit?) - a handheld device Should they boot up the device, the screen helpfully informs them that it's a Participant Help System (PHS). Not much on it, but it does have a few apps, including a memo one for taking notes. There's also a messaging system, though it's only capable of receiving messages, not sending any. As a matter of fact, there's an alert for a new message already. Maybe it'll explain what's going on. Good evening, everyone. Uh, how are we sure they’re arriving in the evening? Just say “hello”! Or “greetings”! Greetings is fancy, right? Oh that’s true. Greetings, everyone. That’s better? Yes! Except maybe we take out the that’s better part in the final version. Will do! We’re sorry that we’re not here jklk oh no how do i erase what i wrote. Where is the question mark. Help press backspace. What is a backspace it’s written on the keyboard. Do you even know how to read? right now. There are a lot of things happening that’s so vague? Could we maybe TRY to not be ominous, guys??, It’s going to be ominous no matter what we say, so who cares so we need time to best prepare for you all. We will greet you properly soon, so please make yourselves at home! There are a lot of places to explore, and the kitchen has a lot of delicious food. Please don’t be shy, but also, don’t damage anything. It’s a little inconvenient. They’re going to do it just because you sound so fucking whiny. I’m sorry oh this is how you write somewhere else. Please do not fight or do. We don’t control your life choices. No please do not fight how do i make an exclamation mark maybe we should’ve gotten someone else to write the draft of the message? No offense. I’m sorry Sorry stop apologizing. No one else volunteered. Maybe we’ll luck out and none of them know how to read Thank you for your time! We’ll see you soon. Also, we promise you haven’t been kidnapped or anything! Oh dear. I don’t know if this is going to be edited, so if it isn’t, then I do apologize to the participants for our lack of organization. We’re doing our best! Probably. Er, what? Unfortunately, it seems as though that's the only info they're given for now. In the meantime, why not explore the surrounding area? A number of buildings are locked, and the Planetarium appears to be closed, but there's enough to keep the characters occupied for a day or two. They might even want to get to know their fellow "participants" better, while they're at it.

NAVIGATION locations ₓ˚. statuses *+:｡ ic profiles :ₓo ic rules ･ﾟﾟ･｡ audience requests murder proposals ｡✧o private conversations ･ﾟo｡ curfew ･ﾟ✧ memories

Comments

[discernments]

As long as you aren't afraid and mean no harm, they'll come to you.

[ She sounds so sure of this. As if animals would never run away as long as you're friendly. As if she doesn't have some sort of innate skill to gain animal familiars.

She waves for Ange to come closer. ]

[lecarre]

[That sounds fake but she sounds so confident... so cautiously, Ange does in fact scoot closer.

Bit by bit.

Like maximum awkward city girl seeing a Critter for the first time.]

I... I don't want to spook them...

[discernments]

[ She scoops up a chipmunk, who doesn't resist Jeanne, and holds it so Ange can come at her own pace. ]

Would you like to be friends with them?

[lecarre]

Um, I would...

[It's so, so cute...! She crouches down as soon as she's close enough, peering at the fluffy creatures.]

They're adorable. You have such a way with animals, miss!

[discernments]

You can call me Jeanne, and it's only because I grew up on a farm.

[ She holds out her chipmunk. ]

Please hold out your hands and meet your new friend.

[lecarre]

[Carefully, she holds out her hands.]

Miss Jeanne, then. It's a pleasure. My name is Ange.

[She's totally holding her breath when the chipmunk is deposited, though.]

[discernments]

I'm glad to meet you, Ange!

[ The chipmunk is still for a few seconds and then tries to climb up Ange's arm. ]

Oh, I think he likes you.

[lecarre]

[!!!!

She holds perfectly still as he climbs, expression bright and blushing a little.

And in a whisper:]

Do you truly think so? I'm so pleased that he doesn't seem afraid of me...!

[discernments]

[ Jeanne's smile is warm, and she whispers back. ]

I do. [ There's no doubt. ] He'll like you more, if you give him a name as his new friend.

[lecarre]

A name?

[She's quiet for a moment, contemplative.]

A name is a rather big responsibility, isn't it? [ange don't overthink it]

[discernments]

It's also a sign of sincerity and affection. Any name you think fits will suit.

[ Jeanne is here to be gently encouraging. ]

It doesn't have to be now.

[lecarre]

[Jeanne is too good and too nice, but Ange does relax again at her gentle encouragement.]

"A sign of sincerity and affection"... I do like the sound of that, it's true.

In that case, perhaps... Charles? It was the name of a boy I was once good friends with. It is a name that still brings me feelings of fondness, even now.

[discernments]

[ Charles...

That's also the name of someone from her past. Even if it's a common name, what are the odds? Jeanne smiles. ]

That's a wonderful name for a wonderful friend, old and new. I hope this one will give you similar feelings for however long we're here.

[lecarre]

[Ange smiles a little, dipping her head in response. She seems to have relaxed a great deal, and honestly--]

I do feel so much better now... it is almost like magic.

Thank you... I suppose I needed to calm down for a moment. But now I feel quite settled.

[discernments]

[ Google says chipmunks aren't the most affectionate, but Charles is now happy to cling to Ange's shirt or top of whatever she's wearing. ]

We are all in a stressful situation right now. I'm happy if Charles or I helped in that. I'll always give you a moment to find peace, if you need it.

[lecarre]

[Ange is thrilled and still sitting very still for Charles the Chipmunk to cling.]

That is incredibly kind of you to offer. You hardly know me, but even so... you still offer that so freely.

[discernments]

To offer what help I can is all I can do. Will it better if I know you more?

[ She smiles. ]

I do not know how long we'll be here, but for as long as we are, I would like to be your friend.

[lecarre]

Please, don't take it wrong, miss. In truth, I find your open kindness amazing.

And... if you are truly willing, then I would be very happy to be your friend.

[discernments]

It's only what I feel.

[ It really shouldn't be too amazing, but she knows all too well what people can be like. ]

I'm more than glad to be your friend, Ange.

[ Not too unlike Charles the chipmunk. ]

[lecarre]

In that case... I'm very glad to be your friend as well!

[Ange seems sincerely delighted, clasping her hands together in front of her heart.]

For however long we are here, I am very glad it is together...!

[discernments]

I feel the same. Now, shall we explore the rest of this place together, or would you like to stay and make more friends with these fine fellows?

[ Make as many woodland friends as you want, Ange. ]

[lecarre]

( captchaaaa )