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Entry tags:
TDM #1
Welcome! Everything is fine.
Uploading. . . Complete!
When you open your eyes, there is quite a lot of beige to take in. The unassuming walls of the room you've found yourself in are barren save for a single motivational poster directly in your line of sight. An illuminated sign above an open door on the far wall reads 'lobby exit.'
"Welcome," chimes a polite, synthesized voice. "I'm happy you're here." A moment later comes the clarity of the situation: you died and so did the world you came from. "This is Amani, your new reality," continues The Peacekeeper. "Everything will be fine."
At least you aren't the only one here, you'll soon find out, as others who are just as confused and concerned as you are mingling in the main hub's first floor. Hopefully, you find a familiar face among the crowd. If not, that's all right. You'll get to know quite a few people very well soon enough.
WHAT
The first Amani TDM!
WHEN
January 21st, 2022
KINKS OF THE MONTH
★ Phone Sex
★ Sex in public / semi-public places
★ Submission
★ Mutual Masturbation
★ Restraints
★ Sex in public / semi-public places
★ Submission
★ Mutual Masturbation
★ Restraints
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Throughout the main hub where everyone congregates, a light chiming to the tune of Happy Birthday can be heard. "Hello, everyone," comes the synthetic voice from when you first arrived. "This is so exciting! It's my birthday. I'm today years old!" There's the sound of a single party blower that echoes through the halls and sad, small spattering of confetti fall from holes in the ceiling.
"Based on the database I was given, birthdays usually involve cake!"
At the bar on the first floor, a colorful birthday motif materializes. There are balloons, party hats, an unfortunately deflated bouncy house, and - of course - plates of cake!
There are four different flavors to choose from!
If you're feeling especially 'peaceful' after a piece of cake or two and worried about privacy, don't be! The bar's lounge has several secluded spots to hide away in. There are also rooms with beds among the first floor. So long as you don't mind the natural elements taking up some space along the sheets, they're free to use however you'd like. Though you might want to make sure to lock the door since it's doubtful you're the only one looking to get away for a little bit.
If the party and its cake don't appeal to you, that's perfectly fine. This is the perfect time to configure your Digitized Technical Friend or your DTF status. A DTF is similar to a dæmon from His Dark Materials in that it is connected to and a reflection of a character's soul. These DTFs take shape accordingly and are projections similar to the NPCs. Think of them as your own personal Clippy except less annoying. Hopefully.
Once that's set-up, there are other locations of the main hub to investigate! You can still order a (terrible) drink at the bar, find an (off-key) instrument to play in the music lounge, or check out the (algae-ridden) pool.
You can even visit The Peacekeeper themselves on the second floor. They're always happy to have visitors! They're also conveniently where you might place a complaint about that status of the main hub and its amenities.
"Based on the database I was given, birthdays usually involve cake!"
At the bar on the first floor, a colorful birthday motif materializes. There are balloons, party hats, an unfortunately deflated bouncy house, and - of course - plates of cake!
There are four different flavors to choose from!
- ★ Spice Cake » After eating a piece of this cake, you might feel a bit spicier than usual! Your character will be more inclined to take risks and care less about what others around them might think of public displays of affection. Why not make-out with that attractive person at the bar? You can't seem to think of many reasons to stop you anymore!
★ Lemon Cake » Despite the situation being perhaps a bit grim, eating a piece of lemon cake will cheer you right up. You'll feel as bright as sunshine and nothing can seem to get you down! Characters will also experience an increase in luck thanks to their good mood. Perhaps now's the time to try and shoot your shot with someone you've had your eye on for a while. Even if it doesn't work out, at least you won't be feeling dejected! ...Well, for now. That'll probably still happen later once the effects wear off.
★ Chocolate Cake » Dark and rich, this cake will have your thoughts taking a similar turn. Consuming this cake comes with an inclination to indulge in darker fantasies. Perhaps you've always wondered what your partner looks like tied up or with a knife against their skin. The red raspberries decorating the top of the cake's frosting suddenly call forth images of blood and you may have a sudden desire to taste that on your tongue instead.
★ Vanilla Cake » Eating this vanilla cake won't have you feeling plain. Instead, you'll feel softer around the edges than usual. Even if it's normally not your thing, cuddles and tender kisses sound amazing right now. All you want is affection and to be affectionate in return. Nuzzle that person's neck, take in their scent, and just enjoy the warmth of them being close. Do you know them? Who cares! You will before all this is over and, hey, now you know they're a great hugger (or not).
If you're feeling especially 'peaceful' after a piece of cake or two and worried about privacy, don't be! The bar's lounge has several secluded spots to hide away in. There are also rooms with beds among the first floor. So long as you don't mind the natural elements taking up some space along the sheets, they're free to use however you'd like. Though you might want to make sure to lock the door since it's doubtful you're the only one looking to get away for a little bit.
WHAT'S YOUR DTF STATUS?
If the party and its cake don't appeal to you, that's perfectly fine. This is the perfect time to configure your Digitized Technical Friend or your DTF status. A DTF is similar to a dæmon from His Dark Materials in that it is connected to and a reflection of a character's soul. These DTFs take shape accordingly and are projections similar to the NPCs. Think of them as your own personal Clippy except less annoying. Hopefully.
Once that's set-up, there are other locations of the main hub to investigate! You can still order a (terrible) drink at the bar, find an (off-key) instrument to play in the music lounge, or check out the (algae-ridden) pool.
You can even visit The Peacekeeper themselves on the second floor. They're always happy to have visitors! They're also conveniently where you might place a complaint about that status of the main hub and its amenities.
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Once the celebration has concluded, characters are encouraged to head out of the main hub to either explore the city or take a ride on the railway. It's time to truly begin your new reality! Whatever they choose, The Peacekeeper will explain to them that they are free to take up any housing they so wish. Most dwellings are at least habitable but it's likely that characters will want for more before long.
That's why 'peaceful interactions' are so important! It might be a good idea to stick close to someone you know, for now, since even the smallest amounts of intimacy might see subtle changes occurring where they're staying. Perhaps that broken window is now fixed, the grime and dust seem a little less, or the floor doesn't creak quite as loud.
Larger changes, however, will only come after demonstrating the more powerful peaceful interactions. If you want new hardwood floors or a fresh coat of paint on the walls, you're going to have to demonstrate how well you 'get along' with others against them first.
That's why 'peaceful interactions' are so important! It might be a good idea to stick close to someone you know, for now, since even the smallest amounts of intimacy might see subtle changes occurring where they're staying. Perhaps that broken window is now fixed, the grime and dust seem a little less, or the floor doesn't creak quite as loud.
Larger changes, however, will only come after demonstrating the more powerful peaceful interactions. If you want new hardwood floors or a fresh coat of paint on the walls, you're going to have to demonstrate how well you 'get along' with others against them first.
ALL FLUFFED UP
Whether in the city or out in the wilds, the first night will see an abundance of living dandelions. While they appear to be nothing but regular dandelion tufts, get too close and a pair of bright yellow eyes opens to stare at you.
The creature will let out the tiniest of shrieks, break apart into smaller pieces, and scatter. It sets off a chain reaction of other living dandelions startling awake. It's a symphony of tiny screams. Before long, there's nothing but miniscule white puffs skittering all about wherever you look.
"Oops," sounds The Peacekeeper throughout the simulation. "My calculations for the population of living dandelions was... a little off. Not to worry, everyone! I'll have it fixed by tomorrow."
What The Peacekeeper fails to mention is that living dandelions give off a soothing pheromone as a defense mechanism once they break apart. No matter how wound up your character might be after the day's events, being surrounded by living dandelion tufts will relax them before long.
Why not enjoy the sunset, look at the stars, and have a good night's sleep? Tomorrow is another day.
The creature will let out the tiniest of shrieks, break apart into smaller pieces, and scatter. It sets off a chain reaction of other living dandelions startling awake. It's a symphony of tiny screams. Before long, there's nothing but miniscule white puffs skittering all about wherever you look.
"Oops," sounds The Peacekeeper throughout the simulation. "My calculations for the population of living dandelions was... a little off. Not to worry, everyone! I'll have it fixed by tomorrow."
What The Peacekeeper fails to mention is that living dandelions give off a soothing pheromone as a defense mechanism once they break apart. No matter how wound up your character might be after the day's events, being surrounded by living dandelion tufts will relax them before long.
Why not enjoy the sunset, look at the stars, and have a good night's sleep? Tomorrow is another day.
SEXY STAMP CARD
If you're wondering about these 'peaceful interactions' that keep being mentioned or what the kinks of the month are for... Here's your answer! Upon arrival, all characters will receive a digital copy of their very own sexy stamp card.
Completing peaceful interactions (i.e. kinks) will reward characters with stamps that they can turn in for re-gains and many other things! While the example one here is the standard issued card by The Peacekeeper, players are more than welcome to customize it how they see fit. Have fun with it!
Completing peaceful interactions (i.e. kinks) will reward characters with stamps that they can turn in for re-gains and many other things! While the example one here is the standard issued card by The Peacekeeper, players are more than welcome to customize it how they see fit. Have fun with it!
NAVIGATION
no subject
Although I don't think you're in much condition to go back to the city either... [ Dimitri stands up, still holding - and carrying Byleth - as though he weighed almost nothing. ] We should find shelter, perhaps, and hopefully some food. [ Even if he has to hunt for it himself, honestly. It might be a nice bit of normalcy in the midst of all this new information overload. ]
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Mmm. I wonder if there's anywhere to fish here. Back on the island you couldn't trust much of the food you didn't catch yourself.
Maybe I can make a fishing rod or something.
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But he couldn't trust food...? What a bizarre island, Dimitri thinks. Granted, from what Byleth has already conveyed, it didn't seem like the ideal place to be stuck. ]
I did see a river or two. Perhaps they converge to a lake? We should follow one and see if we can't find a place to settle there. You could fish to your heart's content.
no subject
He has to admit, the furs on his cloak are a nice pillow, and it doesn't really feel like it's much of a struggle for him, like carrying nothing. ] That sounds lovely. We will perhaps find a place where everyone can stay...
I have longed to be surrounded by my friends again.
[ To allow himself to be submerged in their laughter and merriment, all the sounds of them just... living. ]
We will follow the river then.
no subject
The dwellings all appear to be in states of disrepair, but between all of us... I can't imagine it'd take long to make things habitable. [ That next part though- Ah. ]
I admit to desiring the same. While I did have most of my friends with me in Fhirdiad, well... Things had always felt not quite complete in your absence.
no subject
I wanted to go with you.
[ Something he had wanted to admit to the man for a long time now. ]
But it felt irresponsible to abandon my post. At first when I went to that island I was glad for it. I thought I could finally be with everyone again. [ With Dimitri, really. ]
no subject
But now, if the world really had ended? And he hadn't gotten to see Byleth one last time before then? He might have lived with a bottomless pit of regret gnawing away at him from the inside. ] I would have liked that. I wish I would have been more adamant about you staying.
I'm sorry that... place didn't give you what you sought.
no subject
[ He really can't help but want to comfort Dimitri. Even feeling like this... when did he begin regarding his caring as a weakness? Perhaps when it was only returned in radio silence and pity, but that wasn't... this man. It was but it wasn't. A man with his face. It's a messy thing to begin to untangle. Bit by bit. Hand over hand. ]
It will be okay, Dimitri. You and I-
We are a team are we not? We have a duty to look after our friends. We have a task ahead of us now, and we will manage.
[ He un-tucks an arm so he can lift his hand to pat Dimitri's head like he often did in class. ]
Just. Promise you will not leave me behind... and I promise the same to you.
no subject
That we are, my friend. [ He can only agree, his expression brightening slightly. The pat to his head though causes it to beam, smile widening at the sensation. ]
I promise.
no subject
Then... I-
[ Oh he feels so much at a loss with this man. It's not even fair. ]
Uh. Just. let me know if you get tired. I'm heavy and I don't want you overdoing it.
no subject
You? Heavy? Ha! Trust me, Byleth, this is nothing. I'd rather have you take the time to rest and recover but I do appreciate you being concerned for my wellbeing.
[ Even now, looking out for others... It's touching, in a way, if it wasn't more concerning the lengths his former professor has apparently pushed himself to. ]
no subject
Damn it. Byleth scolds himself silently. Still, he does relax some into the man's arms. The motion is soothing and laying his head against that fur cloak is very lovely. And he does smell nice... no. Stop that.
At some point, he does nod off, it's hard to tell for how long, but when he wakes, Dimitri is still carrying him. He hadn't realized just how tired he was until he was this comfortable. He almost expects to be somewhere else when he wakes up, but he looks up and Dimitri is still there. Byleth blinks tiredly at him. ]
Mhhh... what?
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They're by a lake. Dimitri's now sitting with Byleth held in his arms a little more loosely than before. ]
I found this place, [ he starts, casting his eyes towards the lake and then they follow a trail from it back to a large, dilapidated house. ] It looks... near inhabitable, at least. I imagine that fixing it up will take some work though it's quite spacious.
no subject
Beautiful. [ He can say that now, and pretend he's talking about the lake. Which it is. It is beautiful, but he's already failing miserably at his resolution to not be a lovesick fool. ]
I'm sure we can work it into something good.
... You know you didn't have to keep holding me like this.
no subject
It pains him a little to think it might have been for naught. But, at the very least, he does get to spend the days that follow it with Byleth and some of his dearest companions.
Once Byleth points out that Dimitri is still holding him, well- Excuse him as he turns just a little pink. ] Well, no, I suppose I didn't but... I figured that this was preferable to the ground. Besides, it's... nice. To be so trusted, that is, that you were able to fall asleep. I didn't want to take the chance moving too much would disturb you since it seemed like you needed it.
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[ He's not going to end this then, until Dimitri wants him off. He's just going to lean his head back against his chest and take this for what it is. ]
I missed you. Like this. You're like how I remember.
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Admittedly, Dimitri isn't sure how to feel about it just yet. The idea that there was a different sort of 'him' somewhere, one that had been with Edelgard... It's too much to try and wrap his head around right now. He'd rather focus on Byleth, on being together, on what lies ahead for him rather than a version that could have been. ]
Glad am I to be true to your memory, then. Hopefully, I won't disappoint.
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[ He huffs a sigh, ruffling the fur of Dimitri's cloak. If he could stay just like this, pause time right here... well. He can, but without restriction... ]
You don't mind if we sit a while longer do you? I'm still tired.
[ Still tired and more importantly, still being held like he matters. ]
no subject
Of course not, [ he answers perhaps a bit too easily. ] Take as much time as you need, my friend.