sexyspace | TEST DRIVE MEME #9 (FOURTH WALL EDITION)

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!test drive

TEST DRIVE MEME #9 (FOURTH WALL EDITION)

Introduction

The same siren that had sounded a couple weeks prior to signify the arrival of the portals that ripped through the island fills the air again. While Zenith had seemed to have taken care of these strange space-time anomalies, it appears that they didn't quite contain them all.

"Hello again, volunteers," R.Y.U.O. addresses the public again, thoroughly unimpressed. "It seems we have a second breach to be concerned about. Just as before: mind the edges and you should be fine." He doesn't say much more than that but anyone looking out the nearest window will see what he's referring to.

No matter where volunteers are, the giant triangular portal (approximately 1.75 miles tall and 1 mile wide) that suddenly splits reality off in the jungle faces them. No matter where they walk or what other angles they try to see it from, it faces them. That's only slightly unnerving.

It doesn't take long before the multiversal visitors start to pour through. While current volunteers can't leave, it seems that other people are able to come in through this portal that has converged from multiple access points in the multiverse on this tiny island. Say hello, volunteers, there are quite a few new unexpected faces to greet!

WELCOME TO ZHAUTAS

Professor Quintalian - who the newly displaced might have been informed already is the head of the volunteer program here on Zhautas - is quick to turn this potential PR nightmare into a daydream. People may be spilling through the portal and bringing forth any number of issues without the proper clearance but that's not their fault.

And it isn't Zenith's either, they're quick to say. It's actually because of a deranged space pirate named Hoshiko - here, have a picture for reference! - and you can blame her for your displacement in the multiverse. Please do. Of course, if anyone questions how one person is causing all this trouble Zenith representatives will be quick to say they need to go back to whatever task they had at hand and drop the topic.

Basically, it's not your fault and it's not their fault but you're still here now. So, why not be made to feel at home during your temporary stay? The professor is of the mind that showing these newcomers some good old-fashioned Zenith Corporation hospitality would be more beneficial in the long-term than trying to turn them all away immediately. You can't buy publicity like this! He wouldn't be in charge if he didn't know how to turn things to his corporation's advantage.

TEMPORARY LODGING

It's for this reason that the professor makes the call for the west wing, usually utilized primarily for research, to be turned into temporary lodging for their company. While the makeshift cots laid out aren't as private as the pods of the east wing or bungalows out on the beach, that's alright! It's still a nice, comfortable place to sleep until they figure the best way to get you back home.

They even got everyone who shows up a complementary gift basket. It's filled with cliche "aphrodisiac" foods such as chocolate, strawberries, but thankfully no oysters. They do have those if you're interested, of course, but you'd have to go to the food court for that request. The basket also contains lube (of random, assorted flavors and added effects!) as well as a cheap, plastic bullet vibrator that has the Zenith logo printed on it.

Unfortunately, due to the quality, it's a little finicky. Once you turn it on, you might not be able to turn it off. Don't worry! There's plenty of people around to help. Plenty of people to witness you fumbling with this bouncing, buzzing object and certainly plenty of embarrassment to be had by all. What a good bonding opportunity!

SEXATORIUM

Whatever research that was going on before people started arriving has been suspended for now. One wouldn't know though from how quickly the changed everything around from perhaps what veteran volunteers are used to. One minute there's regular, mundane scribbling onto clipboards and contemplative hums and nods. The next, there's sex on display in no shortage of ways.

The lab spaces have instead been converted to serve a different purpose. The lights are dimmed and tinted a hopefully soothing blue, music plays lightly, and there's the strong scent of sweat and salt permeating the place. The west wing has, for now, been converted into a sexatorium to showcase Zenith's finest attempts at curing this disease and enticing fresh faces to join their cause.

Volunteers and newcomers alike are welcome to peruse this section of the facility until everything gets sorted. Whether it be to watch or demonstrate themselves, Zenith staff is encouraging everyone to take part. They might be a little overly encouraging, honestly. It probably isn't surprising they're under quite a bit of pressure these days from HQ. Show all the multiversal visitors a good time the Zenith way, volunteers!

The glass walls of the research sector have become an exhibitionists' dream. Or perhaps a voyeur's, depending on perspective! Maybe you're taking time to walk through or scurrying to the other side and averting your eyes. If anyone was looking for the head of the program, they can find him here. Of course they can. If you're not into tentacles, that's your loss (according to him), but he's more than happy to talk about the program as well!

They also have plenty of other "experiments" that they'll be running that anyone is free to participate in. They are, but not limited to:

Sex Toy Demonstrations - Ever wondered what state of the art sexual technology is like? Check it out for yourself! If you want it, they likely have it. Not to worry if you don't exactly want to have everything on display, there are rooms that are more private with a black-out option on the glass. It can be toggled on and off or opacity may be changed and filters applied for those who might want the thrill of potentially being seen but not entirely.

Natural Aphrodisiacs - Stepping into one of these rooms will be like taking a step outside. They're full to the brim with plants both familiar and alien as a taste of the larger gardens that Zenith touts. Of note are the coitendrils; they're a pretty touchy-feely species! It's a plant that thrives in warm conditions and grows at an incredibly fast rate to seek out these cozy spots. As it turns out, your body warmth is the highest temperature around and exactly what it's looking for.
Strip Trivia - How much do you know about sex? Maybe less than you think! Especially when you start throwing xenobiology into the mix. These rooms are staged like a game show (that outsiders can also view, if you so choose!) and with each wrong answer, you'll find yourself losing a piece of clothing. It could be as minor as a sock, your bracelet, or something as obvious as your entire shirt. Don't worry, your clothes are held in a containment unit just outside the room and it's all in good fun!
Cultural Exchange - It's no secret that many of the cultures and species on Zhautas are sex-positive. Most recently, volunteers visited the country of Nevrione whose specialty is leather BDSM gear with amazing hand craftsmanship. While there don't appear to be any natives to that country (which people are free to find suspicious) there is a sampling of what they have to offer for use. Also, just look at those cute feathers decorating some of the gear... What a nice touch!

AROUND THE FACILITY

The Gym
There is now a large gym after frequent volunteer requests for one. They've dedicated a lot more room recently to get a good work-out in. One of the best ways to relieve stress is exercise! Not that volunteers have any particular reason to be stressed. Everything is perfectly fine. It has a plethora of machines now rather than just a handful. In fact, it even features a rock wall, pool, and track now to suit almost every need imaginable.

A couple of the machines have an emphasis on vibrations. Not to worry, however, as there are plenty more options available that they're easily avoidable.

If the gym pool isn't your speed, you're always welcome to go for a nice swim out at the beach. The local mermaids have since returned back to their home waters, so there's no immediate threat to your well-being. At least, not anything obvious. Let them know if you find anything!
The Holo-Deck
The holo-deck is now up and fully operational. It's the size of a small gymnasium and quite sturdy! Don't worry if you do break anything, they'll fix it in a jiffy! They like to see the limits of their technology tested, after all.

The holo-deck can simulate basically anything your mind can come up with... if you have an implant. So, better make friends with someone who does if you want to experience this feature! Its main function is a relaxation mode that projects soothing landscapes and scenery. They look, smell, and sound so real you almost wouldn't believe that you aren't hiking through the mountains. And despite its limited size, the holo-deck does manipulate perception to make the space seem a lot larger than it really is.

Additionally, it has a combat mode to help keep the senses sharp of volunteers who might be more battle-inclined. They don't want you to lose your edge, after all, and especially not with Hoshiko still at large with no idea when she'll strike next. It's better to be prepared and it also gives the more restless volunteers a good way to work out all that excess energy.
Arcade
Attached to the holo-deck, there's another large room. This one is dimly lit and comes with the archaic colors and sounds that belong to a retro arcade. While the holo-deck can simulate games, there's nothing quite like the feeling of pinball beneath your fingers. Or maybe you just want to whack some moles in order to vent your frustration.

While you can win tickets here, they can't be exchanged for anything but minor trinkets. Most of the prizes to be gathered are sexual in nature (because of course, they are) like boxes of condoms or fancy flavored lubes. There's also the standard plush toys and inflatable contraptions.
Food Court & Vending Machines
This is a pristine, updated section of the facility that serves only the finest of meals thanks to the new cyborg chef in charge. He's a friendly older guy who uses his mechanical enhancements to make food faster than you can blink and, of course, it tastes incredible to boot.

Additionally, the vending area has been expanded and the machines have been fixed to no longer shoot out drinks at supersonic speeds. Of course, they still can if you so wish. Some people seemed to have fun making a game out of it so the feature is an option but only if someone selects it from the menu.

The Beach
The bungalows for more permanent residents of Zhautas are lined up along the island's south shore. It's only a short walk from the main facility, no more than five or ten minutes. If you'd rather stay out here instead of using the temporary lodging, that's also an option! They have tents available for use. Don't mind the way you may feel -- no, will feel more inclined to snuggle up - or more - with someone. That's just a standard 'light aphro' feature added to help prompt new volunteers to ease into the atmosphere of the facility.

At night, the beach lights up in beautiful blue luminescence where sand meets sea. Unfamiliar stars and constellations dot the sky as far as the eye can see. It's really rather peaceful. Well, it is if you ignore the giant foreboding portal off in the distance.

The Lounge
This is a begrudingly new addition to the main Zenith research facility, volunteers may have noticed supplies being gathered over the last week or heard whispers of the activity before the building popped up seemingly overnight near the outskirts of the jungle. While approved by the head of the program, it certainly doesn't look like anything that Zenith had a hand in constructing. (They didn't.) It sticks out from the sleek, smooth chrome surfaces by seemingly pulling together more natural elements reminiscent of the buildings in Nevrione, built from mostly wood with a stone foundation. The furniture inside is also crafted from wood, leather, and so on to create a... unique atmosphere full of tables, benches, a bar and stools. In fact, some of the decor seems to be decorated and reinforced with dragon scales.

While alcohol is served here, that's only if someone brings something that can be converted into alcohol via alchemy by resident volunteer Edward Elric. The lounge is advertised as being a place to hang out and get a break from the more modern and high tech setting that the facility has to offer, it is requested that sex does not happen within these walls.

While it touts a calm, unassuming front, with entertainment available such as darts, a pool table, card games and other typical bar games, it's quickly becoming an escape from Zenith's prying eyes and ever alert ears. This might be the place to go if you want to speak a little more freely about your suspicions regarding Zenith.

For volunteers that offer to help with construction or around the lounge once it's built - keeping order among others, cleaning, gathering supplies or various other tasks around the building - drinks will be free (unless another agreement is arranged) as means of payment for their time.

(For any questions about the lounge, please contact Remedy. Thanks for this idea goes to Amy, as it was Garrett's brainchild.)

THE UNDERBELLY

For as much as Zenith is pulling out all the stops, there's no denying that there is a faint sense of unrest teeming beneath the surface. While some veteran volunteers are friendly, there is still an undeniable undercurrent of dissatisfaction that Zenith can't quite completely overshadow. For all the fanfare and attentiveness of the staff, it probably won't be long before you run into at least a few people who aren't exactly shy about their dislike of the corporation.

Things that one might overhear and want to investigate are as follows:

Out in the jungle at night, you might have noticed- No, not the portal, everyone's noticed that. There are red eyes that light up the jungle at night. While they aren't exactly menacing, they are extremely unnerving. Ask anyone and they'll tell you those are demons and they're a product of Professor Quintalian's "personal research" apparently approved by Zenith. While they aren't actively aggressive, trying to infringe on their territory is ill-advised.

Being demon-touched is a terrible thing to experience. They're formless, tarry parasitic creatures that try to consume someone. There's even apparently a chance that you might turn into one. Being demon-touched comes with a host of negative side effects such as visual and auditory hallucinations, a desire to be "complete," fever, and more. And unfortunately for you, the process to expel any demon essence from the body is just as terrible.

Unfortunately, demons aren't the only concern you'll have if you traverse the jungle. This tiny island hosts a range of creatures both docile and deadly. It also seems like with the portal opening, even more are making their way and finding a space here at the Zenith Research Facility.
Despite initially volunteering, people's requests to leave are met with vague excuses as to why it isn't possible immediately. But then the professor will turn around and say Zenith sent someone home overnight without a word to anyone. While this appears to be highly suspicious, none of the staff seem to want to expound upon how Zenith operates with regards to terminating volunteer participation and, of course, Quintalian is nowhere to be found for any real serious discussion. Call him though! He'll be glad to talk to you over dinner and a nice bottle of wine.

Maybe talk to a resident volunteer about this since it should be worrying to someone who might want to sign-up.

Despite the way that the helperbot R.O.S.I.E. is described to watch the facility at all times, she's known to get distracted or glitch out from time to time. And with her trying to entertain all these new guests where she can as well as Zenith re-routing efforts to the sexatorium, there's a distinct lack of physical security present. Huh.

Recently, there's been a lot of thumping and bumping up in the ventilation shafts throughout the main facility. If you're foolhardy enough to find the cause, you'll actually be met with one of the resident defensive AIs that goes by the name R.Y.U.O. He's glad you're here, actually. Things were starting to get boring. If you wander too far through the vents into a restricted area (since the barriers in place won't stop those without an implant!), he'll be quick to throw something else to deter your exploration.

This might electric shocks, extreme heat, of even the classic of a swarm of spiders. It's nothing personal, of course, he just has a job to make sure people trying to snoop don't get too far.

EXTRA NOTES

Welcome to the Zhautas fourth wall event! We've added some extra links down below that might be helpful for newcomers.
As a reminder, the timeline is:

Fourth wall begins on Fromb 24th (March 24th).
The portal will close and the event will end on Fromb 39th (April 8th).
The arrival ship will land as scheduled on Fromb 40th (April 9th).
The intro log including this and theft of the arrival ship will be on Fromb 41st (April 10th).
The next OOC Event Announcement for April's event will be on April 15th.

In the case of an unfortunate run-in with R.Y.U.O.'s defense of the air vents, established volunteers, let us know here!
If you have any extra questions about anything in the game, please direct them to the FAQ!
If you have in character questions, those can be directed to R.O.S.I.E. here!

NAVIGATION ♦ FAQ ♦ TAKEN ♦ RESERVES ♦ APPLICATIONS

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ Erik regards him, unimpressed. ]

I told you what I'm going to do, and you tried to talk me out of it. Whatever you want to call that familiar dance.

[ He gestures at the board. ]

It's your move. Unless you want to see the sights before you head out.

[ charles merely shrugs. trying to talk erik out of things is a default response. it happens automatically most of the time. he moves a pawn forward. ]

What sights would those be?

[ Erik is pretty sure if he proposed Charles would try to talk him out of it but that's the opposite of the current problem. Or maybe it's all connected. He's definitely not in the mood to be introspective about this. That'll wait until after Charles leaves. He'll just sit and stew about it for months instead. ]

There's the gym with the vibrating machines. The robot chef in the food court. The caves with glowing snails and seabats. The jungle where the demons live. The beach. My bungalow where I've collected enough leather to make a Weimar Berliner blush.

[ He spreads his hands. ]

The island's our oyster. [ A beat. ] Also some of the children are here. I don't know if you want to see them. Probably better if I'm not there if you do. They might... draw conclusions.

That only proves their deductive skills are still intact.

[ but he sighs. charles isn't sure he's up to seeing his students yet, especially the future ones. he's ready but he rather not test that. ]

It's best not to. Not yet. I'll let you decide the best place to be.

[ It's stupid. No, vulnerable which is worse. There's only one place he wants to be with Charles right now. ]

Let's go to the bungalow. I can make you tea and you can tell me how terrible it is.

[ his lips curve upwards. ]

That sounds delightful. Take me there?

[ Erik gets up and starts strolling at a pace measured to stay at speed with Charles' chair. ]

It's not far. And it's accessible. Made sure of that the last time you were here. Or... some version of you.

[ Quantum mechanics and time travel irritate Erik with their irrationality, so he doesn't waste time thinking about it. ]

They're all the same. The bungalows. The only real difference is how many personal effects we've managed to collect. And whatever we brought with us.

[ Soon enough, they arrive. ]

[ personal effects. he can't imagine, being trapped in a place like this. trying to make do. he spent his life in a mansion, trying to will away the pain and the sorrow. it hadn't helped, just kept him in a stupor. this is not hell, but it has the makings of one.

he makes a hmm sound as they enter the bungalow. ]

How long have you been here, Erik?

[ He frowns in thought as he leads them to his room. Sure they could stay in the living room, but he doesn't want to deal with his roommates wandering around when he's trying to have a conversation. Sex in the living room is fine. Talking about things is not. Go figure. Not all of Erik's gear is on display. Just the pieces that won't fit in the drawers. The spreader bar and some of the larger paddles. Mizuki's collar is on the dresser where it will remain. And the copy of The Once and Future Kingthat Charles gave him so many years ago is on Erik's nightstand. ]

Seven or eight months. It's easy to lose track, they use a different calendar. I left D.C., was on my way to Poland when I met a recruiter and... [ He waves his hand. ] Ended up here.

[ He sits on the edge of the bed, feeling old and tired. He feels it. The tug of friendship, of family, of love that he will never be free of no matter how far he runs or how resolute he is in his conviction to stay away. They don't want him, but he misses them. He looks at Charles. ]

How are you? And... Hank. Did Raven stay with you?

[ his gaze softens as he takes it all in. there is a pause before charles remembers himself, placing his hands on his lap. ]

I'm all right. Hank is with me, as always. Raven is . . . [ another deliberate pause. ] . . . doing what she feels is best for her. I try not to look into it.

[ it's hard, relinquishing control but he's seen where it's gotten him. raven can take care of herself. she is her own person. love is not a leash. ]

[ Erik laughs softly. How thoroughly he had fucked things up with Raven. What an idiot he was. ]

Don't forget to reach out to talk. She doesn't want you to abandon her. She just wants you to trust her.

[ He looks away, out the window. Like if he kept looking he might see her emerge. Or one of the others ripple and shift into that familiar blue form.

It's for the best she's not there. She'd probably shoot him in the throat again. ]

She's smarter and more capable than either of us.

[ charles smiles. ]

She is. But I'll let her decide first.

[ he clears his throat. ]

Besides, I have more than enough work on my plate.

[ Erik doesn't want to hear about it. He knows that their lives will continue without him. That is how time works, and what he wants for them. But to hear about it, knowing he will never be there to experience it in any way.

Knowing this is the last time he will ever see Charles.

He needs to hear about it. If not for his own sake, for Charles' sake. He looks happy. Present. Like he has a purpose. How soon things have improved since Erik left. ]

So you are opening the school again? Do you have any students yet or are you still preparing?

[ charles brightens at that, touched that erik would ask. ]

We're still in the middle of preparations. The mansion isn't in the best state to receive visitors, much less students. It'll be at least a year or so before we can open the gates again.

[ Charles had been in shocking condition the last time they saw each other. It had never occurred to Erik that his behavior, among other things, could affect him so deeply. But he always did wear his heart on his sleeve in a way that Erik never could. In some ways he envied him, the way he could express his emotions like that.

Well. Emotions other than anger. Erik was pretty good at expressing that. He nods at the answer. ]

You should probably include secret emergency exits. Remember what happened at the CIA headquarters.

[ And then, he stops and glances at his hands for a moment before looking at him again. ]

Or whatever you think is best.

[ He's not part of it anymore. ]

[ that's a good suggestion, though charles hates that it needs to be done. the world outside. the cia. he sighs a little at that. it hurts to think about it, but he won't always be around and there is only so much protection charles can guarantee before it warps. ]

I will. Thank you, Erik. I hadn't considered that, though I should have.

You shouldn't have. It shouldn't be necessary.

[ He had forgotten what it felt like. Or maybe he had forced himself to repress it. The anger. The way it simmers. The thought of how they can't just life a life, that they have to claw and bleed for every moment of peace they will ever know. How they have to prepare contingencies and defenses for the most innocent of activities. A school. A school! A school should be safe. A school shouldn't need secret passages and emergency doors and everything else that Charles will need to try to keep the children safe until they graduate to a more uncertain future.

Erik's hands curl into fists before he breathes carefully and makes himself relax them. ]

Raven saved the president. [ His voice drips with irony about that. ] Maybe that will be enough to change things.

[ his smile is rueful. ]

It does seem to have left an impact. Everyone's opinions may not have changed overnight but enough, perhaps, to give us hope for the future.

[ he's glimpsed both. the terrible end and the hopeful one. they exist in tandem and it could tip either way. but charles has to hold on. otherwise, who would be left to fight it? ]

Either way, I'll be prepared. For students and for setbacks.

You will.

[ Erik says, his voice soft. How had his resolve been shaken so quickly? The entire multiverse at his disposal and all he wanted to do was go back to West Chester. Run that school with Charles. And other impossibilities.

You were thinking a lot. Maybe too much. ]

I don't want it to be like this. We want the same things, but it's not possible.

[ He takes Charles' hands in his and holds them, focusing on that because he can't bear to look him in the eye. ]

I carry you with me wherever I go. You changed my life. I would have died in Miami if it weren't for you. Please understand this isn't about what I feel for you.

[ why isn't it possible? why did it always have to be impossible. it should be possible. charles saw it, briefly enough, in the future to know it could be. understanding . . . charles can do that. easily. but it's not enough.

so what does he choose here? to be understanding once more and let people walk away? he's never been good at stopping that. charles lets out a quiet breath before squeezing erik's hands, resolved. ]

Give it a chance. If you can't stay, then you can't. But try, Erik. We've always made the impossible work.

I believe in you. Why not believe in yourself a little more?

[ Erik breathes in and lets it out slowly. He doesn't want to get angry. Charles' optimism is as seductive as it is relentless and it goes against every instinct he has. Instincts that have kept him alive against impossible odds. Instincts that have kept them both alive. ]

I have tried. And we haven't made it work. You can't walk because of it. We agree up to a point, and where we diverge is where all the problems lie. And everybody else agrees with you. I can't. I know when I've lost. And I'm leaving you to it.

[ charles can't help the slight flinch when his injury is mentioned. ]

It's not a competition, Erik.

[ Erik's temper is like a wolf at the door, and he's starting to wonder why he doesn't let it come in already. Make itself comfortable. ]

It was a battle that you won. Don't insult me by pretending it never happened.

[ his own temper flares up briefly. ]

It has never been a battle to me! Do you really think that's how I see it? As a chessboard?

Do you see what happened to me on the beach as a defeat? Because I can assure you, it was not my legs that I mourned.

No. It wasn't a battle, was it? It was a mutiny when I disobeyed your edict to spare Shaw's life.

[ His teeth clench and he looks away. ]

You have everything else you want.

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