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sexyspace2019-01-24 08:00 pm
zhautasmods) wrote in sexyspace2019-01-24 08:00 pm
Entry tags:
TEST DRIVE MEME #8
Awakening
The multiverse is sick. It’s dying. And it’s up to you to save it. Or, at least, that’s what the Zenith Corporation had told you when they announced their search for a cure across the multiverse. They hand-picked individuals to be "volunteers" for the next stage of experimentation. Maybe they made it sound dire, maybe you already had your mind set on helping, or maybe the exact specifications of how you could help were vague. Considering the alternative was wasting away on your home planet with no promise of when this cure might actually come to fruition, it ultimately wasn’t much of a choice either way.
Everything comes to life the more awake that you start to feel. "Good morning, volunteer," sounds a synthetic, masculine voice in your ear. That must be one of the fancy features they advertised about the chip that was injected just beneath your skin. "About time you woke up." A projected HUD above your torso displays and scrolls through several readings about the state of your being. "A scan of your vital signs show that everything is functioning as normal." There’s a small pause. "Oh, actually- Nevermind, that's probably fine." The sense of dread that follows that misleading phrase is accompanied by a light chime. "Emotional responses are still accurate, too. Good to know." Without any further explanation or allowing for protest, he continues on. "Hopefully, you aren't too sore after sleeping that long. We’ll be descending to planet #05031941 - common name designated as Zhautas - in approximately three hours. There will be a brief orientation for all volunteers shortly after landing. In order to stimulate what little brain activity you have, I suggest visiting the museum for a relaxing bit of artistic appreciation."
If you have any questions, make sure they're worth my time. My name is R.Y.U.O. and on behalf of all of us at the Zenith Corporation, we’re glad to have you aboard.
Artistic Endeavours
As always, the color o҉s҉t҉i҉g҉n҉u҉h҉ is- Wait, what do you mean the color o҉s҉t҉i҉g҉n҉u҉h҉ is so bright it's searing your eyes? Huh. That's weird. Maybe the replacement light they made was the wrong kind. Oh, well. They’ll fix that for the next trip. For now, don’t worry about it. It probably didn’t lead to anything important anyway!
- While the staff are helpful, many of them seem to be defeated. There's an unmistakable melancholy in the air. If anyone tries to ask, they reassure volunteers that everything is fine. Still, the moment that anything goes wrong or they can't exactly answer a question it's clear that they grow even more self-conscious. Just what's going on around here?
They won't say. Maybe one or two might eventually let it slip that the Zenith Corporation isn't especially happy lately with a wanted criminal still at large on Zhautas that seems to be terrorizing Zenith at every turn. Her name is Hoshiko and she's a pirate that is capable of escaping every attempt Zenith has made so far to apprehend her. Recently, she caused quite a bit of destruction and caused Zenith to lose their good standing in some parts of Zhautas. Still, try not to worry about it too much. Oh, and, don't tell their boss that they let you know this. They technically weren't supposed to. - As you draw closer to museum, some soothing music begins to play through the halls. It's supposed to get volunteers really in the mood for the museum, if you know what they mean. That's because it isn't your typical museum, of course. If you were one of the few that didn't really know the details of why you were coming here in the first place, you'll definitely know now when it's all out on display.
"Do make sure not to inappropriately touch anything," says R.Y.U.O. flatly. Metal flooring changes to marble beneath your feet upon stepping into a large museum. The emphasis of these exhibits is sex. That is obvious in the statues and diagrams of alien creatures and their mating rituals. There are also flower bouquets that look oddly phallic (or are made out of condoms). That's one way to get creative! Additionally, there are paintings of nature from Nevrione that look like genitalia both human and not and is meant to be symbolic of sex being intrinsic to a natural way of life. - Don't worry, they'll have places that you can sneak away if it gets to be a little overwhelming. The museum has a lounge of plush, red chairs to sink into if all those racy exhibits prove to be a bit too much. Upon tilting your head back to relax, however, you might just notice the suspension ropes hanging from the ceiling. Or maybe it's the man wearing the zipper mask sitting across the way that catches your eye instead.
Oh, whoops- Looks like you might have gotten turned around at some point. This isn't the lounge at all. This is actually the kink section of the museum. There's a wide range of exhibits here that are all about the harder kinks out there across the multiverse. There are informational pamphlets and explanations of things you might have never heard of or thought of doing. Of course, if you want to keep them for reference for later... you're more than welcome to!
In trying to leave, you might find yourself walking through a mirror maze instead. If you're wondering how this is sexy, well- Just use your imagination! Or read the nearest informational sign that reads about how masturbating or having sex in front of a mirror can be a kink for some people. That works too! - This museum never seems to end. In this next part, there's a gathering of people with fancy pens and sketchbooks. It looks like perhaps an art class is in session. Whether you decide to stay and see what they might be painting or choose not to disturb and attempt to go along your way, you'll be addressed suddenly by a large mustached man with six eyes and three pairs of spectacles. "You there!" he suddenly beams. "Yes, you, the- What species are you again? Oh, it doesn't matter." He clicks his mandibles and smiles (or the closest thing to it) as his fuzzy claws rub together idly.
"I'm glad you could make it," he continues on, despite any protests you might make. "But you're wearing far too much for this modeling session!" Modeling session? What in the world is he going on about? You didn't sign up as a model for anything! Any protests you make die on your lips as he talks over you and tugs you towards a dressing room in the back of the studio. "Hurry now, we only have a set amount of time before orientation and landing! These people are eager to draw a, mm. Whatever you are!" He'll get it eventually. "There's a towel in case you're a little shy but it'll need to be removed once you're on the podium."
With that, he leaves you alone to get undressed. Maybe you decide to roll with it! Why not go bare for all to see and sketch? It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and you'd be helping out some very nice art students. Or maybe not. In that case, it seems you're not the only one that got roped into this impromptu nude modeling session unawares. There are likely other volunteers just as confused and looking for help. Perhaps together you can convince this guy he's got the wrong person... or even find the actual model. Better hurry though! The teacher isn't a patient man and there's no doubt he'll be asking where you are before long.
Orientation
Shortly after landing, an announcement is made to everyone aboard the ship. It’s time to find your way to the amphitheater for orientation. If anyone gripes, they are reminded that it has mandatory safety information that the Zenith Corporation is legally required to cover. In fact, there's even a quiz at the end to make sure you understand all the technical ins and outs! The Zenith Corporation only has your best interests at heart. They also can’t afford another lawsuit or PR nightmare but who can, really? It’s only a half an hour long and R.Y.U.O. tells everyone that, while boring, it is mandatory by law so you best pay attention.
- Are you way too cool for school? If you try to play hooky, the crew members of the spaceship are already on guard. You're not the first one to try this and they doubt you'll be the last. Try as you might to super sleuth your way around, there’ll be someone at apparently every single twist and turn.
It’s also very likely that in scrambling to find a place to hide, you’ll run into someone else breaking the rules! Perhaps great minds think alike and you decide to try to defy the system together. Or maybe they’re totally just getting in your way and you decide instead to throw them to the wolves to give yourself a better chance at escaping the certain boredom that is an informational seminar. The choice is yours, volunteer! - Whether you come to the orientation willingly or are dragged in by one of the staff, you’ll quickly realize just how right R.Y.U.O. was. This is the most boring thing you've ever sat through. A half an hour feels almost like ten hours instead. The last time you checked your watch, it was somehow later than when you check it now. Is time going backward? It sure seems like it the longer you listen to the monotone voice read over colored flavor text clearly meant to engage but missing its mark stupendously. Even the motivation of a quiz at the end that needs to be passed in order to disembark seems to do little to nothing for your dwindling attention span.
Finally, there’s a break in the bureaucratic monotony. The faceless, droning voice announces an additional seminar from The Zenith Corporation! In light of some recent... issues, they're really trying to promote their volunteer program as something beneficial for the multiverse but also for you! Despite what you might hear from established volunteers, they really do have your best interests at heart and want your help to succeed in curing this disease.
It's all very touching, isn't it? How much they care? Maybe you buy into it and think, wow! I'm really helping to save the multiverse. Or maybe it reads like try hard propaganda to get you to see them as the benevolent ones when they're not actually as good as they seem. After all, if established volunteers are having problems that they feel the need to point out- Isn't that just a little bit suspicious, maybe?
"Thank you, Zenith," the voice says, level and not giving anything away. "Wasn't that informative! Volunteers, what do you think about the topic of Zenith's operations here on Zhautas? Discuss amongst yourselves!" - Hopefully, you didn't forget about the quiz! The staff certainly didn't. After the pre-recorded seminar is run, papers are handed out. A quiet shuffle carries through the room as people pass them to and fro down the aisles. It all seems rather arbitrary and tedious but remember! You have to pass in order to disembark.
It isn't too hard. Or maybe it is. Perhaps it's just the pressure that you only have fifteen minutes to complete it. What was the professor's first name again? How many research facilities are there on the planet? Staff are scrutinizing your every move now, it feels like. Do you take the risk and try to whisper for help to the person next to you? Pass notes? Do what you must to succeed! ...Or you can just shamefully take the quiz again and again and again until they're legally obligated to let you off board.
NEVRIONE (JAN 24th - FEB 17th)
- Volunteers will be dropped off at the outskirts of the city of Heawood. It's unfortunately seen better days. The forest is in shambles compared to what was advertised. It looks like there was a large battle here recently and, well, you wouldn't be wrong! If you ask anyone, they'll talk about the recent troubles they'd had. Something about a space pirate causing a scene and destroying a Zenith outpost, the native gods being summoned to defend the country, and... those gods being killed. It sounds like a lot happened in this country before your arrival and now everyone is left to pick up the pieces.
While volunteers were initially greeted with open arms a couple months ago, the reception that this group gets will be as cold as the snow outside. The locals don't seem too pleased about the idea of more off-worlders coming into their home and potentially making things worse. Of course, not everyone feels this way, but a large majority of the population do. It might make it hard to get directions or learn more about the local culture when they aren't really willing to share. Sorry, volunteers! The Zenith Corporation actually says that you'll be leaving soon so it's likely better that you won't have the chance to get too attached.
- Suddenly, R.Y.U.O. turns on one of the newer features to help volunteers cheer up a little. Don't say he never did anything for you. Someone next to you might sprout cat or dog ears. Don’t mind if you get knocked in the face suddenly by someone’s new butterfly wings. It happens! It’s also possible they take on the long whiskers of a Coeurl or plumage of a Chocobo or other animals entirely unfamiliar to some. Either way, everyone just got a lot more animal-like. While it doesn’t look exactly like the natives, it does bring a smile to the faces of the locals and they seem a bit more generally receptive to the people waltzing into their homeland.
This feature is extremely customizable. Volunteers can toggle it off if they don’t want it at all. Additionally, they can have as many or as few animal features as they’d like. They can also change what creature they’d like to take after with just a thought! The only limitation seems to be that they can only appear as one animal at a time.
While all the add-ons seem to be mostly for aesthetic, it is a lot of fun to play around with! 
In Nevrione the current seasons is clearly Winter. All the leaves have been raked up and used for other things. What's left of the trees are barren and without leaves. It really does make everything look a little more bleak. What a shame that volunteers aren't getting to see it at its most beautiful.
Of course, just because there isn't a lot of growth doesn't mean that there isn't any. There's actually a winter plant that seems to be just about everywhere and one that people will know- it's mistletoe! It isn't called that here, of course, but it still has the same tradition as on earth. Two people that are caught underneath it should kiss. This can be as platonic, or not, as you want it to be. Even hugs are acceptable, really! Just as long as you share a little bit of affection or intimacy with the other person, it's said to be good fortune for ringing in the new year. The people of Nevrione sure do love their good fortune, don't they?
Of course, this plant comes with a catch. You'll find yourself stuck in some way if you don't participate in the custom. It's a little trick that the Selva - the resident fairy folk - play for when they hibernate during the winter. These creatures never seem to stop causing mischief. So, if you don't feel the love... then you're going to get stuck until you do! This doesn't have to be physically either. You could be stuck on a decision you're trying to make, on a question that was asked of you, or any number of things. The point is though, you'll be stuck on it until someone kisses or hugs some sense into you again.
MAIN RESEARCH FACILITY (FEB 18th & ON)
- They were supposed to have everyone's rooming assignments ready. Unfortunately, R.O.S.I.E. has only just recently woken up and it slipped through the cracks. Honestly, she thought she had more time! She's had so much to catch up on after spending so long non-operational. While apologetic, it doesn't change the fact that you're out of a room for now.
Due to their error, the Zenith staff do their best to make volunteers feel at home... outside. The weather is nice, they have perfectly good (aphro-laced!) tents for use, and why not? This an adventure, right? What's more adventurous than sleeping out under the stars on a whole new world? It's like something right out of your imagination! However they sell it to you, they sell it very well. Even if you are upset, your complaints seem to fall on deaf ears after a certain point and you might just have to accept defeat.
At least R.O.S.I.E. has the courtesy to project a movie for everyone to watch during the evening before lights out. This one was selected by R.Y.U.O., the other A.I. that you might hear from time to time now that he's been a bit more involved. It's a classic and he's going to be disappointed if you don't appreciate its subtly and charm.
- During the night, you'll realize you're not alone. It's quiet, at first, but then a noise comes from out in the dark. It sounds again louder and very close by. A clear, audible-
Ribbit.
A brightly colored frog is sitting just outside your tent (or by your side, if you chose to make do without!) and blinks once you notice it. It gives a little hop, another croak, and then snatches whatever food you might have leftover from dinner. It undulates violently soon as it eats any scraps lying around then pops apart and suddenly there's two.
If you don't want to end up overrun, you might need to put your food away! Maybe this is why you were told it wasn't good to keep it out. If you try to touch the frog to remove it, however, there's a sudden buzz in your ear and a light chime before R.O.S.I.E. speaks gently, "I wouldn't touch that if I were you. It's toxic to most species! You're going to have to find another way to get this little guy out of your space."
"Are there any sticks around? Maybe you could ask your neighbor!" - "Do you like the stars?" asks R.O.S.I.E. in the dead of night. Don't worry, she won't ask if you're asleep! In fact, it seems like she might be contacting the insomniacs or those that are having trouble specifically. An A.I. doesn't need to sleep, but it does get lonely it seems.
She guides volunteers out to a nice viewing spot, but also warns of the jungle's dangers. If you happen to see any red eyes staring back at you in the dark, steer clear. They don't seem especially aggressive lately but demons are still bad news. But hopefully, the view of a spectacular crescent moon and stars freckling the inky black sky make up for any feelings of uncertainty you might still have, or at the very least provide a distraction from whatever has your mind keeping you from falling asleep.
"You should make a wish," she encourages. Though, of course, you're not the only one she directed this way so your wish might not be as secret as you're hoping it to be if you say it aloud.
Network/Bangr
During all the goings-on, R.Y.U.O. will prompt you to set up your presence on the network. Pick a username, a profile picture, and commence to shitposting immediately if you so desire! Additionally, if you want to get a headstart on your contribution to the volunteer program, why not set up your Bangr? R.Y.U.O. even has an icebreaker question ready for you! They change every month. This month's question is:
(*Despite what you might actually put, know that R.Y.U.O. is a little bored. What you wrote might not actually be what's displayed! I.E., you can totally use this as a misfire type deal in case your character wouldn't answer this question.)
bangr
Professor Quintalian | 35
I'd have to say that winter is my favorite, actually. There's just something so nice about cuddling up next to someone who's warm and comfortable during the colder months of the year.
| ✓ | ✕ |
| YES |
NO |
PLEASE NOTE: This BANGR code is the COMMENT-FRIENDLY version, there is a separate code for entries! If you're testing this code before posting it here please do so in a comment to an entry for accuracy!
Extra Notes
- Remember that all prompts are OTA! It can now be assumed that after the ship lands, current volunteers in-game were able to board and hang-out for a little bit before it leaves again! That means established volunteers can welcome new members, show them around parts of the ship they're familiar with, and explore new areas that weren't open during their own arrival! Only new volunteers will be taking the orientation quiz, but established volunteers are free to peek inside the room or try to help with the quiz!
- A reminder that the TDM can be considered game canon and timeline-wise the TDM takes place on the 8th when the arrival ship arrives, as shown on the calendar. As always, current players may top level, if they so choose!
- Going into FEBRUARY, we will be continuing our APPLICATION CAP OF FORTY (40).
no subject
James it is, then. [ The voice is calm but friendly as if its warmth could find a way to warm them both this chill day. This time, the news of George's passing and the hollow feeling that causes are obvious in Pike's blue eyes. ]
I'm sorry, he...was a great man. I can see a lot of him in you. [ They're still shaking hands and Pike reaches out to cover Jim's own with his other palm and give the man's comforting squeeze.
He was aware of the existence of parallel universes before joining Zhautas, how allies turned to enemies in the Mirror Universe and that event the nicest people could be twisted and cruel in a different reality. But he can't imagine a world where a member of the Kirk family is anything but exceptional and kind. ]
Have you been here for long?
no subject
It's so good to hear Pike say his name again, he doesn't know how he manages to keep the elation to himself. He breathes out slowly, shakily, then Pike's hands cupping his own reminds him that they're still shaking hands. Or holding hands, at this point. Awkwardly, although reluctantly, he pulls his own away. ]
I never got to meet him, so I'll have to trust you on that.
[ At the question he dips his head in a nod. Easier to talk about that, and he quickly shifts onto that topic. ]
Three Earth months, give or take. The calendar is slightly different here, though the length of a year is roughly the same. They just split it into six months instead, each the length of around 60 days.
no subject
Jim...James still seems a little troubled, if it's because he discovered that his father is alive in a parallel universe or because Pike's own presence here, he can not tell but he immediately feels the need to make it better. Besides, it's not as if he's going anywhere. The Captain wanted to but he can't still remember what side of the town he was about to explore next.
Once they let go, Pike stands with his hand holding the opposite wrist in front of him, never having anything to hide. He gives a nod acknowledging James's words and offering another look of sympathy but not saying anything else. It's a sore subject, that much is obvious, and Pike has never made it a habit of pressuring people. If in the future James wants to know more about his father, he will tell the young man all he knows about him. ]
That's quite some time. I'm sure you miss your ship. I was already heartbroken when I had to leave the Enterprise in the docs to be properly repaired. But it's good to see snow again. Being grounded for a while reminds me why It's important for us to travel the stars. Reminds me who is important.
[ Even if the locals aren't the most friendly with the volunteers right now, Pike is happy to see people thriving, the kids playing around and not worrying about the battles that are lost or won among the stars. ]
It's been a really long time since I saw one of those, though. [ Looking up, he brings the mistletoe to attention. ]
no subject
Wasn't always that way. That change, in great part, he has the man standing in front of him to thank for. ]
I do. But I would miss her even if I'd stayed back home. [ He smiles warmly when Pike mentions the ship. Of course. ] We crashed on a planet. A supposed rescue mission gone wrong. The Enterprise was totaled after that. From what I understand, a new model is being rebuilt.
[ But that takes time. Months, if not years. For now, Jim is kind of stuck here anyway, whether or not he'd choose to go back already. Probably not. Not without giving it some serious thought, at least.
His thoughts are derailed when Pike looks up, and he follows his gaze, only to let out a soft chuckle. ]
The Selva are at it again, huh? They really do seem to like trapping people together.
no subject
Oh, that sounds familiar. But any landing you can walk from is a good landing. And any landing where you can still use the aircraft, is a great landing. We scratched her a little too during our latest mission. [ More like they left the Enterprise in a state that was barely any better than a total crash. It be like that sometimes. ]
She's a tough lady, she got us home while basically being duck-taped together. The essence of the Enterprise is what it symbolizes, I'm sure the new one will be as great as her predecessor.
[ Just looking at James, Pike can tell that he's just as fond of the ship as any other Captain who ever set foot in her. She works a kind of magic on people. ]
The Selva? Wait, trapped? James doesn't look terrible concerned and that eases any worry Pike might have had but he still eyes the plant with suspicion.
no subject
She survived through a lot where I'm from, too. Kept me and my crew safe more times than I can count. [ Also was the death of him once, but he'd never blame that on his girl. In Jim's eyes, she's perfect. ]
Yes. Not always physically stuck, although... [ He reaches out and tries to move away, only to find an invisible barrier keeping him close to Pike. ] Ah. There we go.
[ He sighs, hoping this won't make things too awkward. ] Keeping with the tradition, you're supposed to share some sort of intimate gesture with someone. A kiss, usually, but, ah... others can work sometimes, too. I think.
no subject
Interesting tradition. Not the strangest I had to deal with. [ He's been trapped against this will before. At least no one's playing illusions in his head or making him suffer through a hellfire of mental torture. ] Seems a pretty simple exchange for our freedom. You're the expert here, James, what's your preference?
[ True be told, he doesn't want to make the other uncomfortable. Kirk's a beautiful man, that much is obvious, and his looks match that personality. Pike is sure he must be having little trouble finding people to, let's say, combat the disease with. But that doesn't mean he's going to welcome the touch of someone he barely knows. Pike is not a man who likes to make assumptions. ]
no subject
[ Even if scientific minds like theirs might have a bit of trouble getting used to that, the fact is that it's very much real. That, and powers and abilities far beyond what people from their universe are capable of.
He can't help a small chuckle when Pike refers to him as the expert. What's his preference? His preference is probably not to act like a complete idiot in front of to-be-Admiral Pike, but considering the slight fluster he's actively struggling to keep at bay, he's doing a poor job of it. ]
We can try to see if a hug works? So maybe we don't have to kiss or anything. [ Is he doing that for Pike's sake or his own? Who knows. A hug does sound really nice, though, so he knows he won't regret that, even if it doesn't release them from the plant's hold. ]
no subject
Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic, perhaps we just don't know enough yet about the one here.
[ James reactions are very endearing to Pike, he shouldn't worry too much about them. He wonders briefly how much the young man knows about him and what exactly was their relationship in Kirk's universe, if they had one. ]
We can try.
[ He makes no comment about the possible (or not) kiss, but his lips turn upwards and tiny wrinkles appear at the corners of his eyes. While this isn't his preferred method when it comes to getting out problematic situations, he doesn't mind too much now and Pike takes a step closer. He wraps his arms easily around James, one hand at the small of his back and the other around his right shoulders. A bit loose in case James changed his mind and wants to pull away. ]
no subject
[ Where he is now, the things he's seen so far, the people he's met... how could he keep believing that magic was just the stuff of myth and legend, of stories and tales? But Pike is new here; maybe with a bit of time, he'll come to see things a little differently too.
Jim nods at the answer, and steps closer to the other man. Thankfully Pike seems to be pretty at ease, which makes the whole thing less awkward, though it takes Jim a moment or two to really return the gesture.
But then he does, wrapping his arms around Pike, loose at first then a little tighter. His fingers curl a little into the fabric of Pike's uniform on his back, and he dares rest his head on his shoulder. He stays just like that for a second too long, maybe two... or maybe more, but Jim is too caught up on how warm and solid and real Pike feels to really notice how long he lets the hug linger. ]
no subject
[ He was made the captain of a ship who could hop around the galaxy in a highway made of mushroom spores. Once you accept that this fact is a thing that actually happened, even if it had a scientific explanation, you kinda have to accept 'weird' is now part of your everyday life.
Magic takes a back seat in his mind and he focused on the Captain in his arms, who might be holding him far longer than Pike was expecting. He doesn't tense or makes mention when James only hugs him more firmly. It looks like he needs it and Pike's hold gets a little more solid and his stand more welcoming, arms tightening around the other man and giving him a comforting squeeze. He takes a pair of taken one deep breath, letting James choose how long the hug will last. ]
no subject
But eventually he knows he needs to pull away. His arms squeeze Pike one last time, and he lets out a quiet shuddered breath before he eases his hold, letting his hands rest on Pike's arms and giving them one last squeeze before he finally lets them drop to his sides.
He puts a few inches of distance between them too, just for good measure. He's not yet sure if the barrier is gone, but he leaves it up to Pike to test it. ] So, uh... should we see if we can get out?
no subject
Let's see. But I'm always available for more hugs, just so you know. [ Pike doesn't move immediately because he doesn't want James to think he was eager to get away from him. Eventually, he takes a few steps back...and then some more. ] Looks like we are free to dance around now. It's nice to talk with a fellow officer are you too busy right now? It will help me if someone could show me the town.
no subject
And he succeeds. A tiny part of Jim feels a little disappointed. Another tiny part of him feels guilty that he's disappointed. Way to shove your head down into that gutter, Kirk. ]
I'm free as a bird. [ He dips his head in a nod, following after Pike so they both step out from underneath the plant. ] I can show you around. Maybe grab a bite to eat somewhere?
no subject
How can I refuse such a nice offer? But eh...[ It's Pike's turn to make a face, looking somewhat bashful. ] I'm afraid I don't have any money. I'm not even sure what they use here. Currency on the different planets we visited has never been my forte, it's been so long since we used them. I might be getting old.
no subject
In a place like this, though, he can't discard the possibility of that happening sooner or later anyway. Especially now that the thought has been planted in his head. ]
Oh, that's alright. I'm good for it, I wouldn't let you pay anyway. [ He shrugs and smiles. ] Come on. I know a few nice places where we can eat.
no subject
Lead the way then. You'll have to let me return the favor in the future. [ He's got a basic idea of the town's layout, checking these kinds of things are second nature to him after so many time in Starfleet, but his knowledge is still very limited. ]
Before, you said you are from a different reality, please tell me you never heard about the 'Terran Empire'.
no subject
Ask me nicely later, and I might just. [ Oh God, did he just tell Pike to ask him out? Yep. He just said that. He doesn't know how he manages to keep his cool and not look like a total idiot just then.
Luckily the question distracts him, and he frowns, shooting Pike a confused look. ]
The Terran Empire? [ Boy, what a name. ] No, I have never. I'm guessing that's a good thing?
no subject
Yes, it is. Apparently in a Mirror universe we all went insane and started enslaving other races rather than exploring and helping them. We don't have a lot of details about it but enough to know they make really unpleasant neighbors. Frankly I can't even start to imagine humanity corrupted in such way.
no subject
Wow. Uh... alright, then. And here I thought my universe was weird enough as it was. [ He frowns, glancing at Pike. ] How did you know about it?
no subject
It's still noticeable that James is trying to handle the fact Pike, a Pike, is really here and he doesn't want to make it harder for the other man. He keeps the tone of voice warmth and relaxed as they walk, even if the subject is less than pleasant. ]
Some from that universe ended up in our and a whole ship form the Federation accidentally ended in their. They were able to make it back on their own, they're a truly exceptional crew.
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[ He doesn't quite recognize the name. Maybe he wouldn't, maybe whoever it is doesn't exist in his universe, or isn't as relevant. Either way, Jim is curious. Just like he is curious about everything that Pike
Chrisshares about this other mirror universe. It's such a surreal story, if something almost similarly weird hadn't happened to him he might have had his doubts about its veracity. ]Can't imagine it was that easy. My reality, ah... came to be when Ambassador Spock traveled back in his timeline, to the day I was born-- triggering a chain of events that would lead to a divergence from his original timeline, thus creating an alternate reality.
He never managed to travel back to his own point in time, though... I'm not sure he even wanted to.
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Michael Burnham is my Science officer, a remarkable woman, brave and smart like any other official I've met. I think only her brother could best her at the job and...ah. [ He gets a bit sidetracked after Jim talks about Spock, blue eyes widening in both interest and obvious confusion. ]
...she's Spock's sister. And he used to be my Science Officer too. He's gone missing but we've been tracking him and I have no news that he managed to travel in time.
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He... doesn't have a sister, in my reality. Not that I know of, that is... I think he'd probably have told me. [ Maybe? Spock still has that annoying tendency to only share information that he deems "relevant for the current situation". Whatever the hell that means. ]
Oh, his trip to the past happens way in your future. Latter half of the 24th century-- just a little over 130 years in your future, I'd wager.
[ He doesn't know which year specifically Chris is coming in from, but he doesn't look older than his mid-forties, at most. ]
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[ Pike doesn't have all the details but even if he did, it's not his place to share. His reason to give James that much information is because the other man really seems to be close to Spock and shocked by the news. ]
So he lives that long. [ His expression changes into a small smile, both sand and relieved. Thanks for letting me know. ] Are you and the younger version very close?
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