bakerstreet makes a jamjar ✨

[mememart]

HARMONIUS: A JAMJAR MEME

The last thing you remember is darkness: a thick, black miasma swallowing the skies, flooding into buildings, drowning everything in sight. Friends and loved ones disappeared before your very eyes. Crowds panicked as they tried to escape the unrelenting darkness to no avail. You remember the feeling of death as it inevitably gripped you, your soul left alone to wander the abyss. But when all hope seemed lost, a bright light reached out to you, bestowing visions of a hopeful future - as well as how such a tragic fate came to be.

Since the beginning of time, chaos and harmony have coexisted. As mortals came into existence and Harmony's love for them grew, so did Chaos' envy. Fearing for their safety, Harmony bound her brother in chains and has kept his wrath at bay for millennia. Until he broke free. Scouring the cosmos for the worlds she held dear, Chaos drowned every last one into darkness as revenge.

But one world still remains. Brought back to life, you awaken on Harmonius. A world created by the goddess, the price for living here is paid in the form of eros: a powerful energy source generated through acts of love, passion, and intimacy. Ultimately, with enough eros gathered from her inhabitants she will regain the strength necessary to reverse the destruction caused by Chaos and imprison him once and for all.

A second chance is still within reach, dear mortal. But until that day, this just might be the closest thing to a utopia you'll ever experience. Why not enjoy it while it lasts?

HOW TO PLAY -

• Comment with your character name and series.
• In your top-level, include at least one starter based on the prompts provided and/or your very own that fits within the setting. Blank comments will be deleted.
• Tag around and have fun! Enjoy the game experience without having to join a game.

SETTING

Harmonius is a vast land suspended in the void of time and space, shielded and powered by the goddess' remaining magic. Here, souls are revived from across the universes at random and periodically as her power increases. Mainly composed of a giant megacity, its design blends futuristic and technologically advanced with the beauty of nature, and at its center lies a colossal statue of the goddess herself. All media, fashion, architecture, and other elements of its society are a fusion of various worlds for easier adaptability. While it's possible to reach the very edges of the world, an invisible barrier prevents any escape or entry.

🞠 ENVIRONMENT: Dedicated to making as many as possible feel at home, Harmonius imitates Earth-like environments such as mountains, oceans, and caves along the outer perimeters. Similar plantlife and vegetation are integrated near or within the city while wildlife is generally found further from civilization. All of the world's weather and seasons are in sync for the most part, currently at a comfortable spring temperature. Although time is technically at a standstill, Harmonius gives the illusion otherwise with 24-hour day cycles and 365 calendar days, complete with a sun, moon, and stars.

🞠 POPULATION: None before the arrival of otherworlders. Now, Harmonius is maintained by human-sized projections of the goddess referred to as Helpers - or more accurately the goddess' statue, as they're easily identifiable by their marble flesh, gowns, and head veils. From the nurses in infirmaries to attendants of living quarters to shopkeepers of various businesses, they can be found at their posts at all times ready to offer assistance. Less seen but important still are the AI holograms of entertainment establishments. Their outfits vary but they take on the appearance of conventionally attractive humans, able to interact with customers but unable to touch. As inhabitants begin to take up more jobs however, the presence of Helpers and holograms will decrease over time.

🞠 TRANSPORTATION: Installed throughout the city are various stations and a bullet train system to take inhabitants where they need to go in minutes. Cars, aircrafts, buses, and other such vehicles would place further strain on the goddess' magic as well as put inhabitants at unnecessary risk, and therefore do not exist. However the trains are up and running 24/7 on frequent schedules.

🞠 DEVICES: Two devices are issued to each inhabitant shortly after arrival, the first being a communication device that resembles a sleek, pocket-sized smartphone. It contains a GPS system for easier navigation and access to the network for getting in touch with others all over Harmonius via speech, text, and video. There's also a chip inside that acts as the key to their apartment when scanned at the door and a credit card when scanned in stores. The second device is a bracelet that measures the eros characters have collected and glows once their quota has been reached. Wearing it is optional but recommended. If either device happens to be misplaced, they can be found the next day at the front desk of the character's assigned apartment complex.

🞠 LAW & ORDER: The goddess feeds on loving, positive energies while strong or lingering negativity can have harmful effects on her healing process. Contrary to popular belief she doesn't actually have eyes everywhere, but she is highly sensitive to the feelings felt across her world. Should a crime be committed that somehow has little negative impact on others then it will go unnoticed. Impact on a larger but temporary scale will result in confinement for the amount of days appropriate given the crime committed, and any crime deemed unforgivable will result in banishment from Harmonius to the gates of Hell.

🞠 QUOTA: To ensure that the goddess can continue to sustain her world, a weekly eros quota is put in place for everyone to meet however they see fit. Eros grants the most energy when touch is involved, whether in the form of cuddling, kissing, sex, and so on. The more contact and bonding experienced with others the more eros is produced. Failure to provide enough results in the goddess having to draw from the individual's life force as substitute - a painful and draining process. Should the body be exhausted more than three times the result is a permanent death, with the soul moving on to either Heaven or Hell after receiving judgement.

LOCATIONS

SANCTUARY

Located on the outskirts of the city, the sanctuary is the first place where characters arrive. Tall and grand, its interior resembles that of an immaculate church. The room they awaken in is circular and, like the rest of the building, lined entirely with marble and stained glass windows. No matter the time of day, sunlight appears to be bathing everything in a warm, ethereal light. Upon leaving through the double doors, a wide pathway is lined with arch pillars and hanging lanterns, their candles scented sweetly and light everlasting. Vines and vibrant flowers have somehow found a way to flourish as they decorate each pillar. Oak pews are present for those who wish to return to practice their homeworld religion. The path is long and eventually leads to grand exit doors, but continues further down to end at an altar decorated with flowers and candles. A single painting hangs in the center which portrays two bodies embracing. Any attempts at damaging property or using magic within the sanctuary are nullified by powerful wardings.

HOUSING

For simplicity's sake, all living spaces consist of apartment complexes at least 20 floors high with a front desk and elevator system. Each apartment comes fully furnished and near identical to the last, but what they lack in individuality they make up for in luxury and comfort. While most of the city's interiors are sleek and polished, apartments are the rare exception with plush carpet, sofas, curtains, and sheets. Large windows offer plentiful lighting and high ceilings give added space to already spacious rooms. Potted plants add a touch of green to brighten up main areas. Though characters are assigned a random roommate upon arrival, only one bedroom and king-sized mattress is provided. Intended as a home away from home, apartments include the full amenities of a kitchen, dining area, living room, bathroom, laundry room, and balcony where a scenic view of the city can be seen.

TRAIN STATION

As the main means of transportation, characters will find themselves here on a regular basis. And with thousands of inhabitants visiting and passing through, even for a short time, an importance is place on simplicity as well as appeal. Glass roofs not only give the impression of openness but also helps to keep the station brightly lit at all hours of the day. Marble tiles and sleek metal escalators of the future are complimented by the timelessness of nature, a variety of trees and smaller plants grown throughout waiting areas and walkways. Maps and schedules are displayed at all times. Vending machines can be found scattered about for the convenience of snacks and drinks on the go. Buildings consist of the main floor and a second below where the trains are boarded every 10 minutes. Even during the station's most quiet hours, it remains lively with its many televisions and holographic advertisements broadcasting constantly.

OTHER

Due to the lack of a monetary system, inhabitants are free to indulge in the goods and services provided without worry of payment. However, these items come at the cost of the goddess' magic. A daily limit is set in place for each inhabitant and monitored via their phone with every purchase. Helpers can be found at most locations to maintain upkeep and assist those in need. For certain entertainment areas such as the clubs, arena, and anywhere audiences are meant to gather, holographic AI performers are sure to provide a colorful show.

• GENERAL: Education & Academia, Fitness & Sports Center, Library & Museum, Marketplace, Medical Center, Parks & Gardens, Restaurants & Cafés, Salon & Spa, Training Grounds
• ENTERTAINMENT: Amusement Park & Fair, Bars & Nightclubs, Love Hotels, Performance Arena, Shops & Malls
• NATURE: Beach, Caves, Forest

PROMPTS

I. ARRIVAL

As you stir from unconsciousness it takes a moment for your eyes to adjust, but you recognize the feeling of a hard floor beneath you. Every muscle in your body feels like jello, your mind hazy. As you wait for the sensation to return to your limbs, you notice the smell of something fragrant lingers in the air, the soft song of chimes playing somewhere distant. Wherever you are, the magic that flows here gives you the sense that you're safe.

Maybe all the memories of your homeworld come flooding back or maybe you still need time to readjust to your body after having been separated from it. Either way, the goddess' vision still rings clear.

It doesn't take long for your body to return to some semblance of normalcy. Once you're up and moving, you're greeted with the warmth of sunlight beaming through stained glass - along with the realization you're entirely naked. Fortunately no one else is around to see. That is, until a bright light suddenly shines down from above and another body appears in the center of the floor, equally naked and coming to. A fellow inhabitant revived by the goddess. As awkward as it might be, you'll have no choice but to stick it out until the end.

Just outside the room lies an ornate table where your clothing and your companion's can be found, along with the belongings - items, accessories, weaponry - worn at your time of death. Though once you move ahead you'll find, sure enough, it's impossible to leave the building. Not without each other and not without first offering some eros at the altar. After all, it required quite a bit of the goddess' power to revive you here. Surely a hug or kiss isn't so much to give in exchange?

II. EXPLORATION

Now that you're familiar with the sanctuary, it's time to familiarize yourself with the rest of the city you'll be inhabiting for who knows how long. After retrieving your bracelet and communication device from the Helper outside the sanctuary, you'll be free to go wherever your heart desires. And chances are you'll want to take the train for faster travel. If so, just follow the crowd of people in the station headed the same way as you: the inner city.

Once the ride comes to a stop and you exit the station, you're immediately met with the sight of tall buildings, colorful signs, and pristine walkways. Display windows reveal unique fashions and gadgets from all over the universes, but if you're a creature with an appetite you might find you're not the only one gravitating towards the tasty smells of bars and restaurant areas. Dealing with death takes a toll on anyone, after all.

Those who partake in alcoholic beverages will find that they have an intoxicating affect regardless of their human or inhuman tolerances. And if you're feeling homesickness kicking in already, you might be pleasantly surprised that there's a little bit of something for everyone from their homeworld. Mealtime brings people closer together, so they say. As well as shared interests. Venture out to places you enjoy and you're bound to make a new friend, or even encounter old ones.

III. SETTLING IN

For some, jumping right into exploring new territory might be their first instinct. For others, having a safe space to ground themselves before the adventure is best. Whether you arrive early at your apartment or later on in the day, you find that you're the only one there, if not the first. You were informed earlier that you'd be sharing it with another but it seems you're free to enjoy the privacy in the meantime.

Make yourself at home by breaking in that cozy bed or sofa. Maybe enjoy a nice bubble bath in that luxurious sunken tub. Almost everything you need in a living space is already at your fingertips and there's plenty of room to spend your leisure time as you please - hopefully without disturbing your roommate once they do arrive.

Speaking of which, there's some shuffling at the door now. Roommate or neighbor, you know what they say about first impressions! Unless it's possible you already know them...?

IV. LOVESICKNESS

Unbeknownst to inhabitants, the trees that grow throughout the city have been releasing a special pollen which affects the chemicals in their bodies. Only a day has passed and most are beginning to feel its effects, but sooner or later everyone is bound to experience symptoms: an increased desire for physical contact, affection, as well as heightened emotional sensitivity. Fortunately, these desires and changes only last until they're acted upon.

Unfortunately, the more they're repressed, the more they manifest in the form of clinginess, irritability, gloominess, or other unusual behavior dependent on the individual's temperament, until characters are inevitably overcome with a sense of loss and numbness.

It doesn't matter where you are - at home, out and about in the streets, alone or in a crowded area. The feeling comes on fast and strong and it becomes overwhelmingly tempting to touch the person nearest to you. With only two choices, you can either give in to temptation or wait until it's too late. But surely someone would be kind enough to bring you out of your heavily lethargic trance and back to reality.

V. TROUBLE IN PARADISE

A few days have passed since arriving on Harmonius. By now you've grown more accustomed to the city and its layout, certain faces have become more familiar than others, and perhaps there's even a place or two you find yourself visiting regularly. But just when you think you've begun to get into a routine, something unusual happens.

The sun is on the horizon when the ground beneath your feet suddenly starts to tremble. Moments later, alarms are blaring incessantly throughout every building and street. Red lights flash everywhere you turn, from ceilings to streetlights, television screens, holographic beacons. No matter where you are, the warning is sure to reach you and the goddess' voice soon announces an incoming threat.

With her powers still in a fragile state, Chaos has managed to slip through the cracks of the barrier, and though it's only a fraction of his strength it's more than enough to cause a harmful disturbance. As a black fog gathers around the city, it shifts and morphs until eventually it solidifies into a vast army of shadow creatures. Piercing red eyes are the only trait shared amongst them, as they take the form of any being or creature which brings their target great fear or suffering. As they close further in to the city's center it becomes clear they aim to destroy everything and everyone in sight.

All Helpers leave their assigned posts to guide inhabitants to safety, but their numbers are small and many are left to fend for themselves. Trains are still operational amidst the chaos for those who need to find the nearest shelter. So long as they're enclosed, all buildings are fortified by the goddess' magic and therefore protected against the chaotic god's forces - unless enough of them should combine their strength to break through the walls.

While many attempt to hide or make their way to safe spaces, inhabitants fit for battle, on the other hand, are called forth to come together and slay the beasts that threaten everyone's last hope of survival.

I. In a city normally bustling with activity any time of day, all is quiet in the aftermath of the invasion. Some buildings remain untouched, some damaged and others collapsed. Parts of the environment have been reduced to dust, a husk of their former lush and colorful glory. People who've sustained wounds or injuries have already been rushed to medical centers for treatment, some inhabitants kind enough to offer their healing abilities for the understaffed Helpers. Now more than ever, the need for eros is crucial.

The goddess broadcasts to all that her power is currently unstable and only decreasing as the night goes on. It's evident in the way streetlights flicker, some powered off completely. Escalators and the majority of trains come to a standstill. Shops and businesses have closed until further notice, all except one. Love hotels and apartment buildings are the only places left operating, albeit at half capacity.

The more eros created between you and another, the more power will be given to restore the world around you. There isn't time to waste. The stakes have been raised and so has the quota, for now. Hopefully there's someone you can turn to in this desperate hour, but if not who says the company of a stranger can't be just as good?

VI. NETWORKING

Searching for friends or family? An eros buddy? Answers to a question that's been bugging you? Whatever the case, the network is the place to post it for all of Harmonius to see. Usernames can be whatever characters decide or remain as the default first and last name. While texting might be the most common way to get in touch with others, don't forget it's also possible to grace the world with your beautiful face via the live feed feature!

Comments

kain highwind | ffiv

[weakwill]

arrival

Waking up against a hard surface wasn't exactly out of the ordinary for Kain. Secluding himself to the mountains for days on end meant that soft, pliant spots were in short supply. It made waking up a little less jarring, though the sweet-smelling atmosphere took care of the rest of the anxiety once Kain came to.

"Where..." his voice was gravelly, rough around the edges in a drowsy way that felt heavier than it should have. That strange vision... where had that come from? It didn't bode well, if it was to be believed, and Kain was a little more accepting of the strange and unconventional since traveling to the moon. His eyes wanted to close again, but his instincts were catching up with the rest of him and it only took a few more seconds before Kain was acutely aware that he wasn't in his armor.

Or anything at all.

He jerked, scowling at his state of dress, quickly whipping his head around to see if he truly was alone. Someone had to have done this to him, and logic dictated that the culprit wouldn't be far. But all he saw was the expanse of the room, nothing more. Great, this meant that he'd have to investigate. While naked.

Sighing briskly, Kain moved to stand, feeling quite... well, exposed. At least he didn't have an audience just yet. But for how long...

[eblanian]

And then in a beam of light in the center of the room, another person appears.

Waking up on the cold hard ground is a bit of a surprise, all told, but after that strange dream maybe it's a little less so. Something ominous that would cause him grave concern, were it not for the oddly hopeful ending, nor the way his body seems to relax against the ground.

At least, relaxed until he realizes his state of undress. He blinks sluggishly up at the blinding light above him before he looks down at himself. All of himself. A thin eyebrow crawls up his forehead at his nudity before he's sitting up, letting out a soft groan as he rubs at the back of his neck. His instincts felt sluggish under the oppressive sweet scent permeating the room, but a quick glance around the room itself gave him nothing to work with.

Except for the fact he isn't alone.

"Wh--!"

He squawks, scrambling to stand up when he notices the other figure nearby. It took a moment for it to click together in his head, as heavy as his thoughts felt, to realize this wasn't an unfamiliar person. That blonde hair wasn't in its typical ponytail and they weren't in their armor, but...

He relaxes minutely to know that at least he isn't alone in this, but it doesn't make the situation any less surreal. "Kain? Is that you?" He hasn't seen him since everything finished, but there's little doubt in his mind that it's him. "Where are we?"

As if Kain will have any idea.

[weakwill]

That initial squawk jolted Kain upright, tension immediately drawing across his shoulders and back. But whatever caution Kain was considering exercising was quickly discarded once the voice actually registered in his head. That voice was familiar, the volume accompanying it only accentuating that sensation.

Well. Surprising, but at least it wasn't a stranger. Problem was, as Kain slowly turned his head back to look, he was reminded of his state of dress. Mostly because Edge appeared to be in the same boat. Awkward.

"Keep your voice down, will you?" Not a single hint of surprise to see him, probably because Kain's next assumption was that he and his friends were also abducted from their homes and thrown here. That, and ignoring just how uncomfortable it was to be totally nude and alone with Edge. Though better him than Rosa, he supposed...

"I have no idea where we are, but I'm not going to stand around here like a fool wondering about it. You're welcome to stay here if you like."

Just going to... casually look away.

[eblanian]

Somehow the fact that Kain isn't surprised to see him tracks, and Edge just ends up rolling his eyes at his insistence he be quiet. His arms cross over his chest as he takes his eyes off of Kain to re-examine the room, looking to see if there was anything amiss or out of place that might give a clue to their situation. There is, of course, a door that he's noticed, but he doesn't want to exit the room until he knows this one has nothing to offer.

There is stained glass, but as he walks over to them and peers out, there is nothing even remotely familiar beyond it. He frowns thoughtfully, before he glances back at Kain when the man speaks again.

...and he lets out a huff at that, giving him a really unimpressed look. "So you'll wander around like a fool elsewhere then?" But he concedes that this room doesn't seem to have anything in it worth looking at, so he's heading for the door himself, letting out an annoyed sigh. "Fine let's look around then. Maybe we'll find the others."

Apparently he's at least made the same assumption about their friends.

[weakwill]

Though Kain didn't catch Edge rolling his eyes, he could sense it. It wasn't that difficult to pick up on; Edge really wore his heart on his sleeve. Or... lack thereof, in this case.

Either way, Kain decided it would be in their best interest to ignore the quip, at least for now, in favor of directing the situation elsewhere. "There is only one way out, so I can't imagine they'd be far off if they're here as well."

...Which potentially had horrific results, if they were also in the nude. Though, perhaps it'd be worse if they were clothed and Kain and Edge were the only ones naked...

Small blessings. That vexing thought aside, Kain grimaced as Edge passed him, opting to follow at a slight distance. When they passed through the door, a measure of relief overcame Kain as he laid eyes upon the table in the center of the room, seeming to contain their clothing, among other things.

Kain sighed audibly, rubbing his face in equal parts irritation, relief, and confusion. "Why are our belongings set out here? Did someone actually take the time to..." he trailed off. Hopefully his train of thought was clear enough to Edge.

[eblanian]

Edge seems to agree with Kain's assumption as he decides to use the only door, ignoring Kain's discomfort with their shared nudity. He hasn't quite realized that they might run into the others also naked or he might be more reluctant to press on ahead.

--but it's not much of an issue when their clothing is to be found in the next room, neatly folded and waiting for them. Edge frowns in confusion at this, not sure whether or not they should just grab the items. Clearly someone set these here, would they bother to put any sort of trap on them when they already had them naked and at their mercy?

Kain's question has him wondering, too, and he makes a face of disgust at the idea. "I'd say they did it to make us vulnerable but what's the point if they just return our clothes immediately?"

He certainly doesn't get what their aim is, but having decided to himself that there's little reason to make a trap of their garments, he's grabbing his own to start getting dressed. Tugging his pants on, he glances over at Kain again with a curious eyebrow up. "Before this, where were you? Recall anything out of the ordinary before you woke up here?"

[weakwill]

Kain was pleased that Edge was on the same page as him, since it was a pretty uncomfortable notion to have alone. But that didn't make it any easier to deal with. After all, Edge had a point. What was even the point of doing all of this if they were just going to give their clothing back in the next room? Was it some kind of test?

What it was supposed to be testing was a mystery to Kain, and not one he was going to dwell on while naked. He was all too happy to join Edge in quickly re-clothing himself, scowling at how ridiculous this situation was already.

As he pulled everything on and back into place, he gave Edge a sidelong glance. Hm. It was a valid question. "I was in Mount Ordeals, training," he said plainly, tying a drawstring together on his pants. "I don't really remember anything odd happening. What about you?"

[eblanian]

Pants drawn up, he's quickly pulling his shirt on and tying his sash across to secure it, shrugging his shoulder at Kain's return question. "Eblan, of course. I had finished speaking with Seneschal before... this."

Nothing out of the ordinary, really. He couldn't recall anything that stood out in his mind right now, it had seemed like a normal day to him. "There were no shady figures, no sudden auras or anything out of the ordinary. It didn't seem like any of the magics we've seen before, anyway."

Which left him at a loss as to what any of this could be. He's taking his daggers off the table though and tucking them away into their holsters on his person, frowning as he gives the room another once-over. "Well! Nothing for it, I suppose we just have to keep looking until our hosts decide to show themselves."

adrian | original | ota

[heavenseyes]

I. ARRIVAL

[ Nudity is nothing to be ashamed of. It's great. It's liberating. It's never been something he's had issue with — until this moment. Not only are the whereabouts of his clothing anyone's guess, but it's hardly consensual for either party involved. Though, in retrospect, he supposes a few pieces of fabric isn't really something to complain about after having just been brought back from the dead. ]

Rise and shine.

[ His voice sounds pleasant enough, all things considered, as he greets the other who's beginning to wake. He stands a fair distance away, long curls draped conveniently over the expanse of his chest while his hands shield private parts from view. Out of courtesy and such. Additionally, he tries not to let his eyes roam or linger where they shouldn't. ]

I'm naked. You're naked. And now that that's out of the way, I intend to go searching for a way to remedy that. Will you be joining me?

[ It's only natural wanting to stick together in a strange place, isn't it? Even if the lack of clothing makes things a bit... awkward. ]

III. SETTLING IN

[ Adrian's attention is focused on one of the potted plants when he hears someone at the door. He turns only briefly to acknowledge them with a smile once they enter. ] Welcome, roomie. [ Then he's back to the task at hand, examining the stems and leaves and roots carefully for comparison to the plants back home. He continues, sounding distracted all the while. ]

There is only one bed, but I sleep so little that it may as well be yours. The kitchen is currently empty of food and drinks but I plan to change that soon enough, assuming you like to eat. Dirty laundry goes in the basket unless you would prefer our things be kept separate. [ He hums, thoughtful. Is he forgetting something? ]

...Right. I'm Adrian, by the way. [ He turns, finally, to give the other his full attention. ] And you are?

IV. LOVESICKNESS

[ He never intended to wait it out for as long as he had. As someone used to placing the needs of others before his own, it was fairly easy to just ignore them in the beginning, continue about his day. But as the day went on it seemed as though everyone he encountered had already lost their symptoms or found a partner of sorts to help relieve them, leaving him with no one.

It's late in the night when Adrian leaves his empty apartment. Dazed and listless, he's dressed in only a nightgown as he wanders aimlessly through the streets that have grown quieter by now. He's only partially aware of his actions, his surroundings. It's possible he's searching for a familiar face, but ultimately he ends up leaning against a building and he slides to the ground.

Adrian curls into himself, knees to chest. His eyes stare blankly ahead but his voice sounds of desperation, quiet as it is, for anyone remotely closeby. ] Some...one...

V. TROUBLE IN PARADISE

[ Even in a utopian world it seems he can't escape demons. Or at least they're not so different from demons as far as he's concerned. But in a way he supposes that's fortunate if only because he's familiar with how to deal with them.

Adrian rushes forward after slicing through one, intent on returning to finish it off, but for now his priorities shift to the person nearby and the creature inches away from landing a heavy blow. The blade of his scythe cuts directly into the center of its makeshift head, stopping it in its tracks, and after a moment of gathering his strength Adrian drags his weapon down in one swift motion to cleave it in half.

As the creature disperses into black particles, Adrian turns his attention to the other and offers his free hand to help them up if they need it. ] You're not hurt, are you?

V-I.

[ Never in a million years did he think he'd be whoring himself out for the greater good. For fun? Certainly. But tonight is especially filled with tension and desperation that a little bit of cuddling can't quite fix.

He's seated on the bed in one of the love hotels, staring thoughtfully out the window as he waits. Always one for appearances and dressing for the occasion, he dons a white, lacy lingerie set currently hidden beneath a silken robe. From this view, it's hard to see the damages done to the city but he supposes that's fortunate. The last thing he needs is a terrible distraction during a time of intimacy.

The sound of the door opening brings Adrian back to the present and he moves to stand as the other enters, a coy smile playing at the corners of red lips. ]

Normally I would offer a bit of wining and dining before the act, if that's your preference. But I believe we both know that time is of the essence. [ And with that, the robe falls to the floor in a rather dramatic display. ]

WILDCARD

( Hit me with whatever! )

IV. LOVESICKNESS

[unrivailled]

[ accustomed to the battlefields as levi is, he knows the sound of true distress like the back of his hand. that broken voice... it hits levi in the chest and pulls him towards it's owner. he spins around and searches for it, but it really doesn't take him too long to spot adrian.

a heap of a body curled up at the bottom of a building's wall, a defensive pose and eyes glazed over - he knows the face of shock when he sees it.

levi is quick to assess the situation. there's nobody else around, no immediate threats he can sense, nothing but this person struggling all alone in the middle of the night in the middle of the street. its strange, definitely, but levi doesn't let it bother him. he's always been one to help others when it's within his power. ]

Hey. You alright?

[ clearly they're not, but he calls out anyway. levi kneels down to their level, tilting his head to make eye contact with the distressed stranger. he does what he can to make himself seem open and approachable, not always an easy feat with his hardened demeanor and tired expressions. but his concern is genuine and he tries his best to convey that. ]

[heavenseyes]

[ For a moment he's unresponsive, only partially registering the voice and movements before him. But eventually his eyes follow along the other's silhouette, slowly and unfocused still as if uncertain they're truly there. His mind hasn't been all that right lately that it could be playing tricks on him. ]

I...

[ His chest is heavy with longing, his body aching for even a sliver of a touch and yet, even as desperation brings him to beg, he can't actually bring himself to admit he's not alright. That he's incapable of handling something on his own. Even if Levi is simply a figment of his imagination.

But that doesn't stop him from reaching out, slowly and tentative, to feel along the other's shoulder, testing that it won't disappear beneath his fingertips. ]

[unrivailled]

[ levi stays perfectly still as those hands reach out for him, and he allows himself to be touched. though he doesn't know what's happening with adrian quiet yet, he's been here himself more than once. this place has a way of stealing away your independence, shrinking you until you're a simple shell of a person. it definitely isn't easy for anyone but when you're somewhat of a loner by personality as levi is...

he reaches up and gently grips adrian's forearm, anything he can do to make himself seem more solid. ]

How long have you been out here? Let's get you up...

[ with his hand outstretched to assist if he's needed, he stands. ]

I'm Levi.

[heavenseyes]

[ Fingertips brush against Levi's shoulder, the ridges of his shirt's fabric, and gradually Adrian is convinced the person attached to it can't be anything but real. Then he feels the grip around his arm and any lingering doubts are dispelled in an instant. Adrian blinks, trance wavering as the brief contact somehow manages to soothe and overwhelm every nerve in his body at once. And yet, he craves more. ]

I don't... I don't remember leaving...

[ He's still only vaguely aware of their surroundings, attention shifting now to the offered hand. He hesitates, anticipating that electrifying sensation, before reaching up to take it - but instead of moving to stand, Adrian's grip tightens. ]

Would it... be too much to ask you to stay? Just a bit longer.

[unrivailled]

[ the dazed state adrian is in is alarming and levi moves slowly, as if he's afraid of scaring him or traumatizing him further in any way. his grip on adrian's hand is tight, but there's also something gentle to it. a knowing softness. the beginnings of unfamiliar bonds beginning.

levi brings his other hand to rest on the back of adrian's hand, cupping him tightly in an attempt to reassure. ]

It's fine. I've nowhere to be.

[ clearly, it's going to take a minute for adrian to gather the strength to get up. that's fine. it's a nice, quiet night and levi likes the atmosphere to be honest.

he doesn't let go but crouches down to sit next to adrian, letting their shoulders brush together and coaxing adrian to lean into him. before coming here levi wasn't much about physical contact but this place has forced him to crave and embrace it whenever possible. ]

When you're ready, I could carry you to my place. [ levi is half joking, but his stoic expression makes it difficult to convey. the only indication is a small laugh that only comes through his nose. but even if adrian were to accept, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch with his strength... ]

What's your name?

[heavenseyes]

[ Even in his current state, or perhaps especially now, Adrian recognizes the care and tenderness Levi puts into every brush of contact. It's all so warm and familiar, somehow, despite the fact it's all so very new; despite the fact that Adrian is just some undeserving stranger he simply happened upon. But Adrian allows himself to be selfish just this once and take all that is offered to him.

Their hands still entwined, he shifts to lean comfortably into Levi's side, and while the difference in their height is distinct it hardly stops him from resting his head against Levi's shoulder. His eyes fall closed almost with relief. There's something about being pressed against a warm body that grounds him, keeps him tied to the present to savor the feeling.

Slowly but surely it seems his focus is returning, enough for a tired smile to curl at the edges of his lips. ]

Adrian. And I'm afraid I'm much heavier than I look, or so I've been told... [ Not that he's ever been opposed to being carried by a strong pair of arms. ]

Do you always take in lost souls off the streets, or am I just so fortunate?

[unrivailled]

Adrian. [ he hums, squeezes adrian's hand reassuringly and allows himself to be snuggled up to. ]

Not always, no, but I'm not one to let someone needlessly suffer if I can do something about it.

[ this place has changed him over time and allowed him to open doors that previously were locked tight. levi was once in adrian's shoes alone, struggling with things that he wouldn't let himself even consider back then. after all, it's just in human nature to be social and crave affection. but it's something else entirely to share in that without hesitation.

levi leans his head against the wall behind him and stares up at the night sky as he patiently waits for his new acquaintance to come back to himself. ]

I was once called "humanity's strongest soldier," I'll have you know. [ he's joking but it's muted in tone, much easier to catch if you know levi's lack of ego. ] But suit yourself. It's all the same to me.

Obi Wan Kenobi // Star Wars // OTA

[smarter_than_sith]

III - Settling in

He's still not sure that this is right. He was certain that he would become one with the Force after he died, like his Master, Qui Gon Jinn. This wasn't that. But he also understood what had happened, that it was a fight between the light and the dark and of course he'd been chosen to aid this incarnation of the light.

His mission was to build this Eros, this expression of love. Some elements he had more experience in than others, but he was willing to throw himself wholeheartedly into the task at hand.

First, though he wanted to settle in his quarters. He was disorientated and needed grounding. Soon, he found himself in front of the vast window that overlooked the city. He sank to the floor, crossed his legs, closed his eyes and meditated.

[chosen_1]

It had been hours since Obi Wan started his meditation before the goddess sensed how he had become one with that energy that bounded him to everything she touched. Obi Wan was one full of love to give, she knew. And she also knew that there had been a lot of darkness who had refused to accept the love he had to give, while viciously clinging to it at the same time.

That was what made it so powerful and painful, she realized.

That's why a gutturan, painful scream unsettled the peaceful silence in Obi Wan's apartment as the goddess brought Anakin back.

It was a loud screech, memories mixed up together until all there was left was fear and grief. Anakin had forgotten who he was, where he was, loss was all there was.

But he was whole again. Doubled over, he hugged himself, the limbs he'd lost back there, his body what it once was. Not even his scar crossed his face anymore.

He was lost.

[smarter_than_sith]

As shocking as that Force Scream was, as much as it jerked Obi Wan out of his peaceful state, his upper body twisting so quick as he looked around that he found himself leaning with both hands buried in the rug he'd been sitting on, he wasn't surprised to see Anakin there. He'd felt something coming, he realised. He'd felt it in his heart and even as it had swelled in his chest and warmed him, it had also started to ache and not feel like it should be there at all.

This couldn't be right. Not if Harmony needed her namesake to grow stronger.

"Anakin," he pushed himself up on his feet and got closer. Despite the concern, he was so, so happy to see him. Not as he last saw him, but how he remembered him when he thought his name. "Anakin..?"

[chosen_1]

His lips trembled, the air being sucked in in short breaths as a string of spit hung from his mouth. Anakin searched the floor with his gaze, an unknown floor to him. Even his feet, made of flesh, felt as unnatural as using his own limbs to welcome air into his body.

And then that voice, it felt like the warmth of two suns after a cold night in Tatooine. So many old memories. Sensations, mainly.

He straigheted his back, his arms still clinging tightly to his own body as he slowly turned.

"Obi Wan..."

[smarter_than_sith]

"Anakin," Obi Wan's voice was brighter and surer now. He could be confident for the two of them. "My young Padawan!"

His arms thrown out then quickly slung around the taller, younger man. He fell against him in a hug that was so long overdue, and pressed his face into his shoulder. He barely even registered Anakin's arms across his body, an uncomfortable barrier between them still. He was oblivious to it.

"It's so good to see you!"

Slowly he pulled back. Briefly, he glanced down to his wrist; the bracelet he wore had a bare centimetre of blue radiance on the band. Obi Wan still loved Anakin as his brother.

[chosen_1]

"Master..."

When was the last time they saw each other? He remembers fighting his master, more than once. Tasting victory, but both times failing. Painful regret. Nothingness.

"Where are we? I can't-- Everything is so confussing." There was a hint of rage on Anakin's voice as he slipped his arm from where it was pinned, between their bodies. he took a step back, looking as his own figure again. Stark naked.

His lighsaber and his robes were folded nearby neatly. But curiously enough, aside from his brown and black clothes, a white set of robes that matched his Master's also waited for him.

"My memories scare me."

[smarter_than_sith]

Thoughtfully, Obi Wan watched him pull away. He'd seen Anakin naked before, on several occasions and this was no more awkward, but he couldn't stop himself looking. He was complete, after all. The last time he'd seen Anakin without the armour he'd been given, his old friend had been disfigured horribly and he'd had a hand in that.

"Yes, I'm sure they do." He looked him over again, this time sadly and stepped back before half turning away.

"I think you must have died. I know I did..." At Anakin Darth Vader's hands. But he'd been restored to a time and a body that had been connected to a happier time.

Did that mean that Luke was successful? His own sacrifice had worked? A sacrifice that sealed Anakin's fate, finally.

Maria Hill | MCU | F/M (30+)

[standardprocedure]

[Meanwhile, during The Blip/Glitch/Snap...]

Arrival:

First, there were the incoming unfriendlies over Wakanda. Then, things really took a hard left turn. The vehicle in front of the one she and Fury had been riding in wrecked, driver nowhere to be found. A chopper fell out of the sky a few seconds later. Then, the weird feeling in the pit of her stomach started, and she watched her own hands disintegrate in front of her eyes. After that, everything went black.

Hill had no idea how much time had passed, or how she'd ended up in the middle of the floor, nude. What the hell was this place? Even though she felt safe, she needed to somehow get word to her team, Fury, Steve, Stark, Thor, someone that she'd been somehow transported away from Earth and was potentially being held hostage. Maybe "hostage" was too strong a word, but what else could she call herself?

Guest...

That made her feel slightly more comfortable. Slightly. But before she can take further stock of her surroundings, another beam of light practically blinds her before revealing another naked body a few feet away. What the hell was this place...?

Anna | Non Canon Marvel based OC | OTA

[eights_and_aces]

Arrival

Anna had been doing one of her favorite things in the world when shit went sideways. Riding her bike, with Devin tucked in behind her in the most intimate way, with the throttle opened full bore. The couple were on a road trip back home blazing a trail down I-10 from L.A. to Central Texas, the mission? Introduce, or re introduce as it were, the man behind her to Anna’s parents.

That is when she noticed the Darkness in a side mirror. ”Great a storm, we’re going to get soaked.” But it moved far too quickly for anything natural, gaining on them at a rate that was un natural, as brake lights started to flash ahead of her, Anna guided the beast of a bike onto the shoulder and leaned forward as she coaxed every little bit from the machine between her thigh.

Not enough, not even close was one of her last thoughts before it closed around the couple.

And now she was looking at a ceiling when she opened her eyes. All that was shown still thick in her head, and it was a lot for the young woman to process, some she didn’t understand completely. After a few moments she sat up, looking around, still out of sorts but the weakness was starting to fade. And in converse the awareness that she was naked as the day she was born.

“Fuck.”

Obviously the girl didn’t intend the irony in that statement. Oddly enough she wasn’t completely prudish about being naked, it was more a weird sensation, but she glanced around. Looking for Devin, because surely he should be here too, right? Seeing someone move on the other side of the room.

“You ok?”

Exploration

Well, all that had been fun, in a sort of unsettling way. She had settled into her quarters, found a clothing shop to at least give her some options other than the same pair of jeans, a crop top, and her leather jacket. Anna was still perturbed she hadn’t found the one that she was looking for. Maybe he was some place else? Or did they wreck or something before being dragged here?

All this ran through her head as she wandered around Sanctuary, acquainting herself with the new surroundings in some of her new clothes. A pleated skirt, asymmetrically cut, the high side almost too high the low to just above her knee, her unlaced boots, and a sweater that was long in the arms but sort showing her midriff. The latter in white which went well with the grey and black tartan. All in all not bad she thought.

Eventually she worked her way into the inner city and gawked at the sites and sounds. Unconsciously she was drawn to a bar that sounded as if it had live music, which to her chagrin wasn’t. High quality piped in music ‘performed’ by holograms of various humans, but the feel of the bar was good. Why not have a drink?