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synflux2025-03-14 12:53 pm
synfluxmods) wrote in synflux2025-03-14 12:53 pm
DOWNTIME MINGLE #7
DOWNTIME MINGLE #7
ⶠ001. WINNER'S CIRCLE.
Although the base has been destroyed, not all hope is lost. Many still view the defeat of the recent kaiju as a significant win, especially knowing how much more powerful it became. Considering the ominous timing of the rift as well, it seems like LILITH predicts everyone is a bit on edge, and as a result, when they come into the main hall that day they will see that it is actually decorated quite nicely. While itâs not a professional venue by any means, it certainly does have its own charms. Itâs a step up from the usual pizza party, at least.
There will be plenty of fresh food prepared for everyone, and not a single questionable meat in sight. Itâs either theyâve upped their lab meat game, or theyâve managed some success in their endeavors on duplicating some of the food processes from Transylvania. The one thing that hasnât changed, however, is the bulletin board in which theyâve posted—
While no one can say where these trends and rumors begin, maybe itâs only natural that peopleâs eyes are drawn to those they consider strong. Or is it that everyone else isYOWAI weak in comparison? Whatever the catchphrases are, it seems the new thing on the streets of Neo Tokyo is the emerging trend of people either wearing sunglasses or blindfolds.
It seems to be some sort of fashion statement, but it may be doing more harm than good. The blindfolds are often tech visors that citizens wear to amplify the screens they see directly from their retinas, but it doesnât mean thatâs always the case. Some people even consider it a personal form of training for them to live and breathe with blindfolds on. Unsurprisingly, hoverboard accidents have increased by 24% and the city is looking for ways to address this new craze.
Thereâs a yearly event thatâs rolled back into town and somehow they have their new mascot, MISTER ZILLA. Itâs in the form of a certified cute and extra cuddly looking kaiju that is strikingly similar to one that people may see on base day-to-day. But that has to be a coincidence, right? Maybe itâs just one more thing thatâs been released by a particularly loose-lipped researcher who's been pulling one too many all-nighters.
Maybe people in attendance will end up seeing him a lot more. Heâs also given out in the form of a keychain to all attendees. Perhaps he will give GIBUBU a run for their money?
Speaking of kaiju and research, a very popular brand called CHALK-MATE has hit the shelves. Supposedly itâs a food shaped like a stick of chalk that once eaten increases one's overall ability to concentrate; it even claims to make people read a little faster. ⊠Is that a myth? Thereâs only one way to find out what this little treat actually does.
The only thing is that it definitely tastes a bit like chalk, too. Oddly enough, the flavors come in just âDOCTORâ and âPHD.â
CHALK-MATE, however, seems like itâs especially popular amongst avid readers. Particularly of the romance genre, also known as NOVELTOK. The fans on these platforms have been especially into a new series based on a Goddess of Death who is in constant search of love, only to be met with horrible romanceable options that leaves every reader both salivating and scratching their head. Supposedly, itâs not a book appropriate for childrenâŠ
A new alcoholic drink, GLITTER, has gotten popular in Neo Tokyoâs nightlife scene. The drinkâs iridescent shades of purple, blue, and green have made it a hit despite its high price tag and the condition that needs to be met in order to request one: customers must first play a game of dice with the bartender. Should the customer roll a higher number than the bartender, they will take the order and make the drink; if they roll less than the bartender, they must forfeit the cost of the drink and pay the next seven rounds of drinks, even for people who arenât in their party. High risks begets high rewards, as they say.
There will be plenty of fresh food prepared for everyone, and not a single questionable meat in sight. Itâs either theyâve upped their lab meat game, or theyâve managed some success in their endeavors on duplicating some of the food processes from Transylvania. The one thing that hasnât changed, however, is the bulletin board in which theyâve posted—
GOOD JOB:
MACARONS (K.O.)
GOJIRA (K.O.)
RUBBER DUCKY & QUEENOFKUR (600)
POKER & BAD DADDY (678)
While no one can say where these trends and rumors begin, maybe itâs only natural that peopleâs eyes are drawn to those they consider strong. Or is it that everyone else is
It seems to be some sort of fashion statement, but it may be doing more harm than good. The blindfolds are often tech visors that citizens wear to amplify the screens they see directly from their retinas, but it doesnât mean thatâs always the case. Some people even consider it a personal form of training for them to live and breathe with blindfolds on. Unsurprisingly, hoverboard accidents have increased by 24% and the city is looking for ways to address this new craze.
Thereâs a yearly event thatâs rolled back into town and somehow they have their new mascot, MISTER ZILLA. Itâs in the form of a certified cute and extra cuddly looking kaiju that is strikingly similar to one that people may see on base day-to-day. But that has to be a coincidence, right? Maybe itâs just one more thing thatâs been released by a particularly loose-lipped researcher who's been pulling one too many all-nighters.
Maybe people in attendance will end up seeing him a lot more. Heâs also given out in the form of a keychain to all attendees. Perhaps he will give GIBUBU a run for their money?
Speaking of kaiju and research, a very popular brand called CHALK-MATE has hit the shelves. Supposedly itâs a food shaped like a stick of chalk that once eaten increases one's overall ability to concentrate; it even claims to make people read a little faster. ⊠Is that a myth? Thereâs only one way to find out what this little treat actually does.
The only thing is that it definitely tastes a bit like chalk, too. Oddly enough, the flavors come in just âDOCTORâ and âPHD.â
CHALK-MATE, however, seems like itâs especially popular amongst avid readers. Particularly of the romance genre, also known as NOVELTOK. The fans on these platforms have been especially into a new series based on a Goddess of Death who is in constant search of love, only to be met with horrible romanceable options that leaves every reader both salivating and scratching their head. Supposedly, itâs not a book appropriate for childrenâŠ
A new alcoholic drink, GLITTER, has gotten popular in Neo Tokyoâs nightlife scene. The drinkâs iridescent shades of purple, blue, and green have made it a hit despite its high price tag and the condition that needs to be met in order to request one: customers must first play a game of dice with the bartender. Should the customer roll a higher number than the bartender, they will take the order and make the drink; if they roll less than the bartender, they must forfeit the cost of the drink and pay the next seven rounds of drinks, even for people who arenât in their party. High risks begets high rewards, as they say.
ⶠ002. BASE-LESS EXPECTATIONS.
Fortunately, with the success of the last battle with the Imugi and Gigakame, many companies have come forth in support of a few rebuild projects. They state they are very interested in providing funding, granted, itâs not without placing their names down as part of the construction efforts. Theyâre especially interested in getting some sway down in Kyoto, as that would be a new place for them to not only pitch their businesses and potentially attract those pockets of civilization out there that they havenât been able to connect with, but itâs a good cause as any in theory, right? We donât talk about all that free real estate, either.
As such, Outsiders are being encouraged to submit their proposals on how to build up on the city of Kyoto and what attractions would lure the citizens to take on the city. While safety protocols are naturally being put into place, as with any new build, they are also open to any additional ideas to secure the perimeter, as well as to make this a more colorful and unique place amongst the wreckage that sweeps the abandoned areas outside the immediate cities.
The only thing is⊠bureaucracy strikes again. The forms must be filled out in a specific fashion, and Outsiders will be expected to go through a similar trial like when gaining clearance to travel. They will be required to sign documents, and even rushed to the temporary âcity hallâ in order to drop it off on the dot. They may even expect some people to warp back to Tokyo just to submit a page or two of a signed waiver.
With city plans still emerging, there are positions open for Outsiders to apply and run as local government. While the government of Neo Tokyo have already designated a mayor for the city, there are positions open for people to be in charge of other areas such as healthcare, food, energy, culture, justice, treasury, and infrastructure. LILITH is placing no restrictions on Outsiders who want to contribute their time and expertise to the new city as long as they continue to carry out their missions to defeat the kaiju. Those who wish to apply are free to do so at city hall, but they will need to rally votes and support from civilians and other Outsiders alike to be elected.
Speaking of trouble and real estate, while a lot of vacant land is available, Outsiders have been summoned to confirm all the plots of lands are free of kaiju before any real scoping can be done. Outsiders will be tasked to go out and survey the areas and stave off any large or mutated creatures that may exist in the expanse of wilderness that borders the area around Kyoto. For anyone interested in assisting with the scoping efforts, they will be encouraged to travel in pairs. The permanent rift thatâs opened in Tokyo has been making many strange waves all across the country. Kaiju have been acting far more erratically, almost as if they can feel the pulses from this rift, regardless of the distance. Or perhaps, itâs all connected somehow? LILITH researchers think itâs better to remain on-guard because of this, especially when traveling through uncharted territory.
Outsiders are also welcome to explore the region. They will find several old temples that may appear dilapidated, but very much recognizable all the same. Such as the Todai-ji Daibutsuden in the neighboring Nara, or even closer sights like the string of tori that line the Fushimi Inari Shrine. There is even a setting in the oculars in which a general tour guide audio can be heard. However, Synthia is still on the fritz and there is no telling what she says is completely accurate. She also canât control her language functions, volumes, or the fact that she may also be linking random peopleâs calls and text messages to one another.
Thereâs no way that negatively impacts any travel plans, right?
(Note: Please fill out the thread below and submit ideas for buildings and businesses in Kyoto! If players wish to have their characters take a role in managing the city, you are free to coordinate this with other players with the same goals for their characters (or handwave it if your character will be taking a smaller role). Mods will not be choosing any characters officially. )
As such, Outsiders are being encouraged to submit their proposals on how to build up on the city of Kyoto and what attractions would lure the citizens to take on the city. While safety protocols are naturally being put into place, as with any new build, they are also open to any additional ideas to secure the perimeter, as well as to make this a more colorful and unique place amongst the wreckage that sweeps the abandoned areas outside the immediate cities.
The only thing is⊠bureaucracy strikes again. The forms must be filled out in a specific fashion, and Outsiders will be expected to go through a similar trial like when gaining clearance to travel. They will be required to sign documents, and even rushed to the temporary âcity hallâ in order to drop it off on the dot. They may even expect some people to warp back to Tokyo just to submit a page or two of a signed waiver.
With city plans still emerging, there are positions open for Outsiders to apply and run as local government. While the government of Neo Tokyo have already designated a mayor for the city, there are positions open for people to be in charge of other areas such as healthcare, food, energy, culture, justice, treasury, and infrastructure. LILITH is placing no restrictions on Outsiders who want to contribute their time and expertise to the new city as long as they continue to carry out their missions to defeat the kaiju. Those who wish to apply are free to do so at city hall, but they will need to rally votes and support from civilians and other Outsiders alike to be elected.
Speaking of trouble and real estate, while a lot of vacant land is available, Outsiders have been summoned to confirm all the plots of lands are free of kaiju before any real scoping can be done. Outsiders will be tasked to go out and survey the areas and stave off any large or mutated creatures that may exist in the expanse of wilderness that borders the area around Kyoto. For anyone interested in assisting with the scoping efforts, they will be encouraged to travel in pairs. The permanent rift thatâs opened in Tokyo has been making many strange waves all across the country. Kaiju have been acting far more erratically, almost as if they can feel the pulses from this rift, regardless of the distance. Or perhaps, itâs all connected somehow? LILITH researchers think itâs better to remain on-guard because of this, especially when traveling through uncharted territory.
Outsiders are also welcome to explore the region. They will find several old temples that may appear dilapidated, but very much recognizable all the same. Such as the Todai-ji Daibutsuden in the neighboring Nara, or even closer sights like the string of tori that line the Fushimi Inari Shrine. There is even a setting in the oculars in which a general tour guide audio can be heard. However, Synthia is still on the fritz and there is no telling what she says is completely accurate. She also canât control her language functions, volumes, or the fact that she may also be linking random peopleâs calls and text messages to one another.
Thereâs no way that negatively impacts any travel plans, right?
(Note: Please fill out the thread below and submit ideas for buildings and businesses in Kyoto! If players wish to have their characters take a role in managing the city, you are free to coordinate this with other players with the same goals for their characters (or handwave it if your character will be taking a smaller role). Mods will not be choosing any characters officially. )
ⶠ003. KAIJUCON.
This is the yearly event everyone has been looking forward to— KAIJUCON is here. This event not only acts as a large research symposium for those who work in kaiju-related research fields, itâs also a place where the most enthusiastic members of the kaiju community come together to share their mutual fascination with the creatures. The event makes it clear that this is in no way meant in any support of the kaiju or the devastation thatâs hit humanity, but of coming to be a better understanding of them. Or that was its original purpose.
Now itâs become a larger, more commercialized event where vendors from all over come to pitch their safety gear, offer classes in case of a city-wide emergency, and even have several large and popular exhibitions for kaiju. As much as people may fear kaiju, it seems that kaiju themselves as a concept have been popular for decades before even the first rift opened.
As a result, there are sections of KAIJUCON for the most⊠zealous kaiju researchers in which they can enter virtual reality scapes and pretend to be kaiju. This form of live action roleplaying has become wildly popular in the city, and has become a hobby to relieve stress for some.
On the flip side, it seems this also has opened up a whole group of people who come up with their own KAIJUSONAS and who attend the event dressed up as their idealized version of kaiju. Fortunately, as LILITH does have its fair share of research and information to trade, itâs the perfect opportunity to grab additional funds to fix up the areas of the base ⊠and of course, how could they not ask the Outsiders to join in?
Instead of the usual team building exercises, they will be expected to help at various booths at KAIJUCON. Whether these are panels in which they teach and share all the intimate details of kaiju anatomy, or where they join in the highly coveted title of BEST KAIJUSONA.
As Outsiders within LILITH, all characters will be approached to speak at panels. Characters previously deemed as HEAVY HITTERS or characters who have dealt a K.O. to a kaiju will be particularly popular at the convention, with fans flocking to them with requests for pictures and autographs. While at panels, a Q&A session will often be held, and Outsiders may have to deal with questions ranging from sensible to ... uncomfortable.
Once their shift is over, theyâre more than welcome to take a look around!
(Note: You are all free to presume everything youâd expect at a convention to be there! Including, but not limited to, merchandise, snack carts, panels, and more! Outsiders with inhuman forms do not need to wear their cloaking devices. As a note, Outsiders are public figures known by their alter egos/usernames. However, the fact that they are from a different dimension remains classified information to the public. )
Now itâs become a larger, more commercialized event where vendors from all over come to pitch their safety gear, offer classes in case of a city-wide emergency, and even have several large and popular exhibitions for kaiju. As much as people may fear kaiju, it seems that kaiju themselves as a concept have been popular for decades before even the first rift opened.
As a result, there are sections of KAIJUCON for the most⊠zealous kaiju researchers in which they can enter virtual reality scapes and pretend to be kaiju. This form of live action roleplaying has become wildly popular in the city, and has become a hobby to relieve stress for some.
On the flip side, it seems this also has opened up a whole group of people who come up with their own KAIJUSONAS and who attend the event dressed up as their idealized version of kaiju. Fortunately, as LILITH does have its fair share of research and information to trade, itâs the perfect opportunity to grab additional funds to fix up the areas of the base ⊠and of course, how could they not ask the Outsiders to join in?
Instead of the usual team building exercises, they will be expected to help at various booths at KAIJUCON. Whether these are panels in which they teach and share all the intimate details of kaiju anatomy, or where they join in the highly coveted title of BEST KAIJUSONA.
As Outsiders within LILITH, all characters will be approached to speak at panels. Characters previously deemed as HEAVY HITTERS or characters who have dealt a K.O. to a kaiju will be particularly popular at the convention, with fans flocking to them with requests for pictures and autographs. While at panels, a Q&A session will often be held, and Outsiders may have to deal with questions ranging from sensible to ... uncomfortable.
Once their shift is over, theyâre more than welcome to take a look around!
(Note: You are all free to presume everything youâd expect at a convention to be there! Including, but not limited to, merchandise, snack carts, panels, and more! Outsiders with inhuman forms do not need to wear their cloaking devices. As a note, Outsiders are public figures known by their alter egos/usernames. However, the fact that they are from a different dimension remains classified information to the public. )
ⶠ004. CROSSED WIRES.
While rebuilding of both the Tokyo Base and Kyoto are coming along, certain other departments seem to be struggling. SYNTHIA in particular is still broken, and try as the LILITH engineers might, repairs are slow going.
While SYNTHIA is down, there are all sorts of communication errors:
If asked, researchers will apologize for the errors and suggest that Outsiders meet in person to discuss any important topics. There's no better way to grow relationships than to spend time in person after all, right? Towards the end of the month, the errors will slow until they are finally fixed.
(Note: Feel free to use this as a general text glitch event in either your top levels for this event or in inboxes and individual player logs! We've listed out some suggestions of what characters might experience but feel free to come up with your own fun ideas as long as they aren't gamebreaking.)
While SYNTHIA is down, there are all sorts of communication errors:
- Messages being sent to the wrong recipient, or to the base at large
- Thoughts transcribing themselves as texts and being sent without approval
- Text messages glitching during the sending process and sending as illegible symbols and strings of letters
- Text messages never sending, or sending dozens of times repeatedly
- SYNTHIA generating inaccurate information about Outsiders and sending them during the numerous reboot processes (think Google AI summaries)
- Blocked users suddenly becoming unblocked, and best of friends suddenly blocking each other
If asked, researchers will apologize for the errors and suggest that Outsiders meet in person to discuss any important topics. There's no better way to grow relationships than to spend time in person after all, right? Towards the end of the month, the errors will slow until they are finally fixed.
(Note: Feel free to use this as a general text glitch event in either your top levels for this event or in inboxes and individual player logs! We've listed out some suggestions of what characters might experience but feel free to come up with your own fun ideas as long as they aren't gamebreaking.)
ⶠ005. AFTERWORD.
Welcome to our fourth downtime mingle!
As stated in the prompt itself, players are welcome to suggest buildings and business to be found in Kyoto by replying to the header below. Please submit all suggestions by March 31.
The texting glitches will last to the end of the month, at which point SYNTHIA will be repaired and all systems will go back to normal.
All tags on this log are worth 2 points.
As stated in the prompt itself, players are welcome to suggest buildings and business to be found in Kyoto by replying to the header below. Please submit all suggestions by March 31.
The texting glitches will last to the end of the month, at which point SYNTHIA will be repaired and all systems will go back to normal.
All tags on this log are worth 2 points.
EVENT BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)
1. WINNER'S CIRCLE: The heavy hitters/KO winners of the last kaiju fight receive their sponsorships, including cute plushies, stylish sunglasses and blindfolds, and edible chalk enhancements among other things.
2. BASE-LESS ACCUSATIONS: ICly, Outsiders are tasked with assisting in rebuilding projects across Kyoto, which include scoping out land, suggesting what new businesses and buildings to construct, and general exploration. OOCly, players are welcome to suggest new businesses and buildings to add to the Kyoto area.
3. KAIJUCON: The annual convention centered around kaiju-related research and inventions. Outsiders can find all sorts of kaiju-related merchandise and gear for sale, as well dress up and meet other kaiju enthusiasts.
4. CROSSED WIRES: With SYNTHIA still broken, communications within LILITH are breaking down. Outsiders will experience a string of troubles when trying to message others. This will be fixed by the end of the month.
no subject
Certainly an odd human that's posing the question! Not the appearance, Godzilla's pretty used to prosthetics of all appearances by this point, no it's the way he speaks, how he demands the attention of the room. Those are qualities of a leader, how curious. ]
Ah. An inquiry that bares the deceptiveness of simplicity. A moment.
[ The big guy taps a claw against his chin, a thoughtful grumble burbling in his throat. ]
Most of your kind's efforts within the musical artistry I find pleasing to the ear. The works of those long past I quite enjoy, the Man of the Piano from the Extended Isles-- [ Long Island, Goji... ] --as an example, the compositions of Verdi, Debussy's works are quite relaxing. I confess a fondness for the Cult of the Indigo Mollusk as well.
[ He... probably means Blue Ăyster Cult...? ]
no subject
You mean Billy Joel, right? The Piano Man, 1982?
[Wait, is this monster from a parallel version of Earth or something? It certainly seems like it judging from its taste in music. Gojira seems to be the type to appreciate the oldies, like the real old stuff from the 80s. Johnny is kind of the same since heâs a big fan of similar artists from that decade.]
Oh shit, you really know your stuff, huh?
[He canât help but sound a little impressed. Finally, someone he can to talk to about music without being stared at like heâs some relic from a bygone age.]
But hang on, I think you got the name wrong on the last band. Itâs the Blue Ăyster Cult, not the Cult of Indigo Mollusks.
[He chuckles quietly before tossing out his next question.]
How long have you been listening to pop music? Do you think these kaijus also like music?
no subject
Bah. Human naming is a thing that is oft-difficult to keep up upon. I have the essence, it is enough to achieve understanding.
[ Mumbling from the crowd: "He did say he's some kind of god"
"I guess it makes sense he doesn't get how names work.."
"They're both old men, oh my god."
Godzilla ignores the muttering of course, it's impolite to be distracted from a person he's actively engaging with. ]
Since my arr-... apologies, awakening in this era, I have exposed myself to human musical accomplishments. This where be a period of a complete rotation around the sun within the next four months. [ A year in July, he'll have been here for a year in July. ] As to the Kaiju...
[ He pauses to snort out a plume of smoke, clearly finding thinking too much on them distasteful. ]
As of current I am certain none have had the aptitude for its appreciation. The Imugi relished in destruction, not creation, the impact of music's sound would have been lost upon her.
no subject
So, in four months, it will be a year since youâŠawakened. [Yes, he noticed that earlier.] Dang, you really went out of your way to research the oldies. Consider me impressed.
[He is all smiles now, clearly amused by this unexpectedly pleasant conversation. His smile fades slightly as Gojira answers the second part of his question.]
So, what you mean is that the kaiju attacking the earth are too primitive to appreciate human culture or understand human speech. No wonder you consider yourself a âKamiâ instead.
[He replies with a hint of understanding.]
Us comparing you to a kaiju, is like you comparing us to an ape. The two are not the same.
no subject
Indeed. "Kaiju" is best of use applied to those whom seek harm upon the earth and her life. My nature as protector sets me most as Kami, though I confess fondness for the terminology of Titan as well, it is of use of application to the other of my scale within the pack.
[ He means Gigan of course, something a few of the fans in the crowd are aware of enough to mummer as they commit this new information down. Nobody wants to offend the ten foot tall reptiles that keep fighting kaiju for them. ]
Beings that do not value art, nor history, nor the efforts of those around them to build are what one can only apply the term of "evil" towards, one would think. That is what the Kaiju have proven to be thus far, evil, an evil I intend to see pushed back to its point of origin.
no subject
[Yeah, LILITH summoned him here, too. It is pretty obvious given how Johnny stands out from the crowd. However, he has always had a knack for "standing out." He is the type of guy who does not quite fit in anywhere, but in a positive way. People seem to gravitate towards him for a variety of reasons, including his enigmatic personality. The other reason is purely superficial, as seen now with these fangirls giving him the eye. He ignores them.]
And where do you think these kaiju are from?
[He asks aloud in hopes of gaining some insight about their alleged enemy. The more he knows about the kaiju, the better. Johnny might seem rather confident on the exterior, but heâs all pins and needles about the next attack.]
Do you believe we can truly kill them all?
no subject
[ Safe enough to talk about that. The Rifts are pretty hard to ignore, especially that massive one at Mt. Fuji. It's not as if LILITH has some secret insight into their function or where they lead
That they've told any of the Outsiders, at least. ]
However enemies the Kaiju may be, as to now irrational and evil as they have proven, I am... ill-disposed to the idea of their extermination.
[ Agitation ripples through the crowd, even some of those part of the panel seem bothered. Godzilla silences it all by flashing his spines pink in warning, raising his hand as he does so. ]
To send a selection of beings in their entirety to their ends is in itself a thing of evil. Such a course of action would be of grinding attrition, causing as much damage to ourselves as the Kaiju, yet the damage to our... our souls, yes? This would be a thing that would never recover, they would be stained for eternity by such a thing.
[ He scans the room with serious lizardy eyes, when nobody speaks back up he turns that gaze back to Johnny. ]
It is a thing enough to drive them to their origins and ensure they do not invade again. Perhaps, with time, the Kaiju possessing of intellect will reach a point in which they can be reasoned with, perhaps not. It is none's place to take that chance from them, not even myself.
no subject
[Johnny repeats, his tone indicating confusion. Just a moment ago, Gojira labelled these creepy alien fucks as a threat, and now the big guy is changing his tune? No wonder there is so much grumbling and whispering in the crowd. This overgrown iguana is showing sympathy for humanity's greatest threat, but for what? Some form of misplaced guilt? Johnny canât help but frown.]
Hold on and let him speak.
[The rocker briefly interjects before Gojira begins to glow...pink? Those pink spines give him the chills. Johnny could feel goosebumps all over his organic arm. While Gojira may be in the metaphorical hot seat here, make no mistake: he wields absolute power.]
I think I get what youâre putting down, Gojira. [He mutters after a moment of reflection.] Although the kaiju pose a threat, they are still living creatures.
Fully exterminating them would be equivalent to annihilating the planet. We would not be able to withstand the karmic repercussions of wiping out an entire species from the face of the earth.
[In a sense, they would be no better than the corpos who wiped out entire villages in South America all for the sake of money. Yeah, Johnny doesnât want that kind of bad karma on his ledger.]
no subject
[ Godzilla sighs, propping his elbow up on the table he's loafing behind and resting his chin on his hand. ]
I am very, very old. I have seen the beginnings and ends of many beings, my claw has even been of involvement in more than one of these instances. Necessities at the time in those cases, or so I thought then. Yet upon reflection one cannot help but dwell on what those species may have done, may have become, if given the chance rather than consigned to destruction.
[ Another sigh, smoke bellowing from his nostrils. ]
The Kaiju are the enemy, do not miss the steak with me on this. I intend to fight till this conflict is resolved, I will slay any that refuse to submit and abandon their acts of senseless destruction as I did the Imugi. However I shall not be a part of any short sighted retributions. I am a Protector, not an Invader.
cw: mentions of existential dread & spoilers for cyberpunk 2077
He is an invader; he was programmed to be that way, and it makes him sick.
Johnny gives a quiet sigh as he looks at Gojira, his forlorn expression thankfully hidden behind his dark sunglasses. He does not want anyone to notice the uncertainty in his eyes as he contemplates his existence.
He does not want to appear weak.]
Who are we to decide who lives or dies, right? [He asks, slipping his hands into his pockets. Itâs to stop his hands from fidgeting. He canât smoke inside the convention. So he needs to do something to stop fidgeting.]
The age-old question. If a primordial being like you does not know the answers, what hope do we mortals have?
thats fine. everyone's doing FINE here in synflux
The silver armed human? He's troubled. Clear from how he hides his hands to keep the agitation from showing openly. This is a good thing in Godzilla's mind, it means this is an Outsider who'll actually consider the deeper meaning to things rather than just rush head first into a battle to exterminate the foes of humankind. Refreshingly enough, there's been more than a few of that ilk lately. ]
âIt is difficult to understand the universe if you only study one planetâ, as Musashi wrote. Though it is my full believe that of all beings, humanity holds within it potential to know of more than the world they have begun on.
[ A sage, lizardy nod as he addresses the room at large. ]
Yours is a remarkable species, one capable of much. Do not allow the fear and resentment to guide your hearts, do not become as that which we fight against. It shall only limit how far your kind grows.
[ And require him to course correct this planet... which involves a lot of stomping. ]
no, no, it's nott! /crrrrrrry
Thankfully, no one knows him here. Hell, they don't even know his real name. "Andrew Lee" is just an alias, a coverup. No one will ever know the man under that pseudonoym, not if he can help it. Johnny is content in playing the role of the enigmatic stranger. It's a role he's played for most of his miserable life.]
Easier said than done. [The annoyance in his tone is telling. He's channeling all of his discontent into cold fury.] The resentment we feel towards those who want us dead is damn near justified, don't you think?
[The auditorium is silent as he speaks, giving him the full floor with no contest. It probably won't last for long but for now, Johnny has the floor.]
From what I know, we did not start this fucking war. The war, like everything else, arrived right on our doorstep against our will. This is the only time in history when humanity hasn't been battling over the scraps of one percent. The first time in history, we stand united against what would be absolute extinction.
TOTALLY FINE
Godzilla's learned a lot in his time here though and one of those lessons is how to be somewhat diplomatic. He's been in the other position before, recently in fact, where anger and hatred were the guiding force in his actions and thoughts. What intelligent being hasn't been at least once in their lives? ]
Understandable, perhaps, reasonable to an extent one would say. Yet "justified"? Such absolutisms are a thing to be avoided. In any conflict it is not of import whom has begun it, what is of the greatest matter is the method of its ending, oft in your kind's history those whom have sought a "justified" ending have set into motion further suffering. Frankfurt in seventy-first year of the twentieth century comes to mind. Versailles, not even a complete fifty of your years later. Cycles within cycles.
[ He shakes his head. In a rare moment Godzilla's feeling a fraction of the age he actually is. These are the same cycles the early empires went through as well, cycles even some of the Titans became trapped in. ]
Violence breeds violence, yet in the end... perhaps it must be this way. There is every potential the Kaiju are not to be reasoned with, should that come to pass I shall do my duty and see this world defended no matter what I must do. However I shall hold hope, hope that at the least a peace can be reached which sees neither side reduced to a mere thing that only remember with enough passage of time. A reasonable enough stance to hold, yes?
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[Johnny wishes he could respond, but nothing comes to mind. Gojira has a valid point. Throughout human history, people have attempted to justify their violence against one another by citing religion and persecution as a righteous decree. This has resulted in more tragedies than anything positive or wholesome, frequently prolonging the conflict for generations. Thatâs not what Johnny wants. He longs for a resolution, an end to this catastrophic problem.
Heâs not looking to prolong anything other than his life. Johnny owes V at least that much. The man whose life he saved.]
I just hope there will be an end to this war, and that all of us will stay alive long enough to see it. I donât want this kind of future for any of us, especially not for the survivors trying to piece their lives together after losing everything.
[His thoughts stray to Kyoto where century old monuments and buildings lie in complete ruin. All the chaos and destruction struck a chord with Johnny as he surveyed the landscape. You could literally pinpoint the exact moment everything went to shit just by studying the ruined landscape. He found all sorts of random items strewn about as he patrolled the area. Everything from day old laundry, to even an old acoustic guitar he idly strummed his fingers across. It was a melancholy scene, one that etched itself deep within Johnnyâs psyche. While he might just be an engram of the real Johnny Silverhand, he still canât help but feel something for the people here.]
No one should have to go through this kind of loss, again and again. Itâs maddening.
[He lets out a tense sigh as he moves his hands out of his pockets in favor of crossing his arms over his chest. The rockstar doesnât seem that fidgety anymore. Thatâs a good thing, isnât it? His demeanor also doesnât seem as frigid as before. Thereâs warmth there despite how uncomfortable Johnny seems with having so many eyes on him.]
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This war will end. The efforts of myself and those I call allies shall ensure it. I am Gojira, I am King, and I am one who states nothing unless it is true.
After a beat of silence Godzilla pushes himself up, letting out a yawn that shows off those very sharp teeth of his. ]
And now I state this, these questionings have gone on overly long. I tire, as I am certain many others do, and feel hunger growing beside.
[ The big guy stretches and rolls his neck to pop the bones in it, the sound resulting from that is loud enough to be a gunshot. ]
Go, have enjoyment of the rest of the convening of knowledge and mercantilism. I have little doubt I shall see many of you upon the floor of eventfulness.
[ It's about time for the panel to end anyway so there's no arguments there. People start filing out without much fuss, while Goji lingers on the stage to chew at one of his claws in a sudden need to groom. He's very catlike in some ways.
And also very approachable. Johnny could always file out with the crowd, or move in for a proper introduction with the big guy. ]
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It's with that notion in mind that Johnny decides to head down stairs and make his way to this thirty-story tall behemoth. The hairs in the back of his neck stand up the closer he gets towards the creature. There's something oddly feline-like about this giant lizard, especially the way it licks at its claws. He can't help but be reminded of Mister Nibbles, V's hairless gremlin of a cat. It's almost enough to bring a smile to his face.
Johnny loves cats. They're adorable, but will he like this lizard here? Who knows?]
Hey.
[He stands a good few feet away from Gojira, his eyes wide in sheer awe of the creature.]
So, yeah...um. Wow, you're scary lookin', you know that?
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Johnny's reaction is something Godzilla's pretty used to and a useful way to get an initial sense for someone's world of origin besides. "Normal" human if Godzilla had to guess, if there ever was a thing as normal amongst that amazing yet oft-vexing species. ]
Ah. A statement which I am given often.
[ A good natured chuckle, which for him is a rumbling roll of a growl in the back of his throat, and a grin, christ it's just all teeth when he grins, he tries bless him but he's still an actual kaiju.
With little effort Godzilla proceeds to step over the table that had been used for the event and down to the floor to be level with Johnny, minding his tail as to not accidentally smash or knock anything over. Once they're on the same ground he's... well, he's still big, 10ft of lizard is a lot of lizard.
A well mannered lizard though! The big guy extends a hand in open offer, favoring Johnny with a small but polite nod. ]
I am Godzilla, King of the Titans, you are honored to meet me. [ Said without the slightest hint of irony or ego. To Godzilla this is just a fact. ] You are one of the newest called to the duty, yes? I have not seen overly much of yourself, though with the pacts scattered between the lairs in Kyoto and Tokyo this is not a thing of over much surprise.
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Holy moly-- [It took everything in Johnny not to bolt the second that Gojira gets up. His fight or flight was kicking in hardcore, and it settled on flight real quick. Johnny is no coward, though. He took a step back when the overgrown lizard made its way towards him, but he didn't run.
Johnny stares up at the giant lizard with a look of sheer awe as it offers him its clawed hand/paw??? Is it a paw? Do lizards have paws? V had a pet iguana but he never paid much attention of the verbage they used to describe it.]
Y-Yeah, I'm one of the new guys.
[Sorry, Johnny is having a moment. As much as he learned about these kaiju, seeing one up close like is a total brainfuck for him. He can't believe what he's seeing. Hell, he can't believe that any of this shit is happening to him. Johnny keeps thinking he's going to wake up at any second now and realize this was just one big prank.]
I haven't seen combat yet, but I've seen my fair share of battles.
[The last thing he wants to bring up is his military service in the NUSA army. No, it's too early for that kind of trauma. Nevertheless, he leans over and cautiously pats the overgrown lizard's hand. Geez, this thing is tough like leather, isn't he?]
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A warrior then, good. We shall have need for all that are capable of battle now that there is a Rift of permanence in existence, one would think.
[ Don't mind Goji has he proceeds to size Johnny up. No ill intent, it's important to get an idea of what his allies are capable of so he knows when they might need assistance or be best left to their own devices. The big guy's eyes lock onto the prosthetic arm pretty much instantly. ]
Ah. One of LILITH's enhancements, yes? It is a thing of rarity for them to provide such equipment to one newly brought into the packs.
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Shit! Those claws are bigger than me!
[*Ahem!* He wisely decides to keep those comments to himself for now.]
Well, I did serve in the military for a bit. [Johnny's visage darkens with disdain as he discusses the military.] I have no fond memories about the military, but the government ensured that its puppets were well-trained and armed for genocide.
[His lips curved into a scowl as he reflected on what happened throughout the conflict.]
But like we discussed earlier, neither one of us want to repeat history's old mistakes.