View source for 3605/The Fleet and FullDive

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2016/01/04
|Location=Alfheim Online <ALO>
|Synopsis=As an attempt to increase morale among the fleet, Nagato and Haguro join up in ALO!
|Cast of Characters=1, 6, 42, 162, 236, 385, 680, 863
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Evening in the Admiral's office with space cleared in a far off section of the large room, Nagato sits at her desk and stares out of the window. The repairs complete to Hikari and sorties all issued for expiditions and with Mutsu and Musashi's departure, the Admiral had everything to herself this evening. Time to see what the Union members do in their free time... With the chatter on the Union's bands for FullDive and the like, Nagato's requested the assistance of four people and, with an order, a heavy cruiser.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"They should be here shortly." she mutters, eyes closed as she bides the time waiting and oddly enough, she's without her headgear today. "This... should be enough space for them to do this, I think."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There's no question that Haguro's looking incredibly worried about this whole thing. A machine designed to go straight into one's mind /and/ with the ability to keep the body from moving? What if the creators just decided to go the other way with it? That's why she arrives at Nagato's office with a bundle of rope around one arm and a bell in the other. She isn't wearing any of her combat gear, though, because that'd just be too much of a risk.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Of course, the first thing she does upon entering is bow formally to the Admiral. "I'm sorry about the lateness! I... Ah. I had to pick up some things just in case.. Er. Just in case anything happens." She's looking a little shaky even as she sets those things aside, just about ready to disappear into the background already. They couldn't have had any of those setups prepared already, right?<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe Was curious about the interest that Admiral Nagato had in the world of full dive games. However who was he to say no to this intrest, she'd be happy to help out how she could. It would have taken Sheena a moment to pick which avatar to show up as, but really? She was pretty sure they were going to go to ALO, so she arrived in the form most of the multiverse knew her. Tomoe the Iron Lily. It's not long before the over six foot frame of the Salamander woman arrives in Nagato's office she's seemingly in good spirits as she arrives. <br /><br /> "Reporting as requested, Admiral Nagato, and your Harguro right?" <br /><br /> The Salmander grins and bows slightly, Kirito might have noticed for once? Tomoe did not smack her head on, a single door frame getting in here. <br /><br /> "Corret, you physical body will remain mostly inert to the world. There's safety features however that will trigger an auto logout, in the event of say a fire."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Yuna's schedule has filled up pretty well since she was recruited for the Special Destroyer Project, but she's still been doing what she can in terms of training - even if a certain amount of it is practicing WITHOUT her loadout.<br /><br />On the plus side, the uniform that Nagato commissioned for the SDP Kagurazaka fits perfectly, and Yuna's wearing that as she heads up to the Admiral's office. "Special Destroyer Kagurazaka, reporting as requested!" Yuna says formally from the office's doorway, and waits to be bidden to enter. Unless she has to step out of the way for others to enter ... in which case she'll step into the office and out of the way, instead of lingering awkwardly in the hall.<br /><br />Fortunately, Elner shows up a moment later with Yuna's AmuSphere - and the laptop-style computer that she uses for ALO and other non-'smartphone' work. She was going to need those, most likely.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;KIRIGAYA KAZUTO's arrival is not heralded by anything important. He is... by no means special in any way, looking at him. Dressed in black sweats and looking pretty relaxed when he arrives, he is. The young man - certainly not dressed to kill - has left the details of getting the requisite hardware and software to Staren, but he's brought his own FullDive device.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The KANTO BOOTLEG NERVEGEAR is a helmet very much like the original devil machine. A full enclosing helmet with a visor. But this NerveGear is distinctly different. The shape, the angles... it's sleeker and lighter than the bulky NerveGear, but seriously heavier duty than the mass-produced AmuSphere.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And he's got it tucked under one arm as he strolls into the office.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And it's not hard for say, Staren or Tomoe to realize this isn't the Spriggan Kirito. It is... the human Kazuto.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who's staring at Tomoe's choice of showing up as her avatar as if just a little spooked. "Was I supposed to come digitally? Thought we were introducing someone to FullDive." The boy, whose face is far too soft-featured to seem either 'fierce' or 'masculine', exclaims in a wry tone.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren... arrives! Presumably he's led or directed to the Admiral's office pretty swiftly once he comes through the base's warpgate. He's /slightly/ uncomfortable with the military atmosphere, but as long as Nagato and Haguro don't act to formal, well, he'll be lost in doing his thing soon enough. "Hello!" He smiles and holds up a hand, slightly awkwardly, "Umm, so..." he scratches his head. "Well, let's get started, shall we? Kirito explained how this works. So, you'll want someplace to sit or lie comfortably. Your body's just sorta gonna go limp while you're in-world." He approaches the desk, reaching into his bag and pulling out a pair of sort of high-tech visors, and a pair of unassuming tablets which he connects them to. Anyone else visiting for the test without a computer or a headset gets one -- he also has a couple Kanto Bootleg NerveGears with him for testing.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He gives Haguro a curious look. "A rope and bells...? Should I ask what your plan is here...?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You'll want a cushy chair or someplace to lie down -- I have some blankets if you need to improvise. Anyway, when you're ready, put the AmuSpheres -- that's those visors there -- on your head, and say 'Link Start.'" He suddenly holds a hand out, "But don't actually do that yet! We, uh... should probably discuss this stuff some more before jumping in. Um... where to start... You must have questions?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nagato gives a firm nod as people enter and a look towards Haguro as she enters, giving the Cruiser a curious glance, "We will not need those, but it is a good thought in case something does happen, good to be prepared." Though seeing the taller girl enter, she is straightened up and gives a salute towards Tomoe, "A pleasure. I am Admiral Nagato, thank you for joining us today." a pause, "And that is comforting to know that nothing will happen there."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With Yuna, she gives an approving look and a nod to enter, "Yuubari did a good job in measuring it, it looks good on you, Kagurazaka. Thank you for joining me here." Staren gets a nod as he enters too, Staren able to find it pretty easily with a couple girls help. "He did briefly." another nod as he goes into an explination, then a look in the room. There's ROOM, but nothing there. "ONe moment.." with a click on a radio, "Furutaka, Kako. Report to my office with four cots." a pause and a nod, "We'll have comfort in a moment.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With Kirito's entrance, or in this case, Kazuto, Nagato gets a curious look, "Mmm?" though, it doesn't take the Admiral long to understand a few things there.. the equipment, the word digitally... and with a voice of confusion, "Kirito? The same Kirito who I faced at the WMAT? The same Kirito on the Union bands?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Without a word, Furutaka and Kako bring in four cots and with a point, they're set up in the cleared out space and with space between them to set things up fully.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; So they are doing it now! Haguro takes a deep breath as she stares at the visors and tablets Staren has provided, eventually looking at those bootlegs. "Is there a difference between the units? If not, then... May I try one of those, then? If anything goes wrong, at least it would just be me instead of one of our guests." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Or someone more important than herself. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;" Scanning the room briefly before turning to Staren, Haguro blinks slowly at the mention of the ropes and bell before glancing back at them. "Ah... They're just in case something bad happens and we do start... Erm. Flailing. Or worse." The possibility of body-hijacking isn't leaving her head any time soon. Her expression does brighten up considerably at Nagato's praising of the (ultimately unnecessary) preparation. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Turning to Tomoe, she nods and offers the armored lady a light bow in greeting. "Yes. It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Tomoe." That, in turn, causes Haguro to jump a bit before bowing at the rest of the gathered group suddenly. "I'm sorry! Ah.. It's a pleasure to meet all of you, even. Mister Staren, Miss Kagurazaka, Mister Kirito. Heavy Cruiser Haguro, here to assist with... Um. With these here." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gesturing at the headsets again, she turns back to Staren. "What should we expect to see first? Or feel? S-so we're prepared."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yep. It's Kazuto here! Not Kirito. Just a glance at him's enough to tell SOME difference. The... well, SKIN TEXTURE is one tipoff. It's a little more... REAL. The pigmentation's a little deeper - a faint tan maybe? And it's not as pristinely uniform the way the VR face is. This is, without a doubt...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Kirigaya Kazuto. Between me and the 'Kirito' you fought, there's... a world of difference I'm afraid. Like this I'd've been sunk in five seconds if we rematched." He points out in a warm and clearly praising tone.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Guess it's good to keep some eyes open. There's never been any trouble with humans. But ship spirits... er... I don't know how magical people work. Hope the AmuSphere works."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He gives Haguro a pretty cheery glance while peering at one of the cots...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Yuna lends a hand with setting up the cots. "Well, logging into ALO for the first time, you'll get an account creation screen, followed by the character creation process - selecting your race and so forth. Undines are natural specialists in water magic, which includes healing ..."<br /><br />She smiles, straightening up and returning Haguro's bow. "It's good to meet you as well, Haguro. I'm Yuna, a friend to several of the Fleet Daughters and an ally to the forces based out of Hikari Sea Port. Also a member of the Special Destroyer Project," she adds, reaching up to run a fingertip across the silver badge on her cap. "But please, feel free to call me Yuna outside of that context."<br /><br />She gets her laptop set up, spending a moment to connect properly with the Union's local network node; Elner might need to help manage data. "Kiri-- ah, *Kazuto*, sorry." She looks sheepish. "Should we route the others through my laptop? It ought to be able to manage the data throughput to UnionNet well enough, if you didn't bring another computer for a local network hub. Or will everyone be able to connect adequately to the network without that?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe grins at Nagato for a moment. <br /><br /> "Good to get to meet you in person finally Admiral.looks back to Kirito for a moment. <br /><br /> "Err I was going to be just heading back in once everyone was set up." <br /><br /> She holds one hand on the back of her head a little sheepish to see Kirigaya here in the flesh. She's now looking embrassed and looks to her friend for a moment. <br /><br /> "I think my brain skipped a beat there. I'm so used to using my avatar, I brought teleport crystals with me anyway so I'm good." <br /><br /> She looks to Haguro for a moment. <br /><br /> "Good to meet you in person as well." <br /><br /> She looks back to Kirito. She pauses for a moment and notes. <br /><br /> "It's true, there's a whole world of diffence, my physical self."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren watches as the cots are brought in, and Haguro explains. Kirito gets handed a tablet since he doesn't have a computer with him. There's a little adapter dongle so he can plug the NerveGear into it. Staren shrugs at the comment about coming digitally. "I dunno, but if you came as an avatar, wouldn't getting back to Alfheim when we leave be a pain?" Staren looks to Tomoe. "Or can you fast-travel or something?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Haguro's question is answered forthrightly: "The intensity of sensation on the helmets is a bit greater -- the main difference is that there's an emergency voice-controlled disconnect feature, in place of the various automatic safeties on the visor, and the unit is less... hmm, narrowly-tuned to what we actually need? For instance, it packs enough power to fry your brain, while the Amusphere is incapable of doing so no matter what. I brought a couple because if the AmuSpheres don't work, it's possible that I might be able to make adjustements to the NerveGears to work with you. For instance, if we were using it on a species with a skull that happens to dampen microwaves, we might need to turn up the power, while the AmuSpheres are less flexible. You can try either one, I suppose. Hopefully, it won't matter."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren nods to Yuna. "Alfheim Online is a game where you take on the role of a heroic fairy in a fantastic land. So, once you pick a kind of fairy to be, it's about going on quests and fighting monsters and stuff." At her question about computers, he looks from the laptop to the tablets. "...Those tablets are /way/ more powerful than they look. But if your laptop contains a better connection to the Multiverse's internet, that might be a good idea." Staren's support AI sends Elner any system details needed for that.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A sly smile comes to the Admiral's face. "Kirigaya, you did well and it's good to meet you in person." Ah, the WMAT... how she wished she could get farther, but that wasn't the subject here today. She listens to Kirigaya and nods, "I'm not certain that I can answer this question for you, but we shall see, shall we?" then Yuna starts and gets an understanding nod, "I'm not sure what this network is, as you can see, the base is woefully inadequate for most modern conviences. But we should be able to... power it at least."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomoe gets a nod, then Staren goes into things and when the word Fairy is spoken, something pops out of Nagato's desk... a Repair Goddess fairy. "We're not in need of you yet, dear. Go back to sleep." and with a sharp salute, it dives back into wherever it popped out from... "So its more for relaxation... I think that will do fine, perhaps, if this run is well, I'll trial it out to a few more of the Fleet as a morale booster."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Staren's answer is roughly what Haguro had expected, but it still doesn't reassure her that much about trying the NerveGear. "That's... Mm. Y-yes, we should... Probably just use the Amuspheres, then." The cruiser lets out a nervous chuckle, clearly hoping that there's no need to go /that/ far. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The description of the game itself does seem to calm her down somewhat, at least, and she straightens out one of the cots just a bit before taking a seat on it. "Between all of us, it should be manageable enough... Especially with the automatic removal if something does go wrong." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She's still eyeing that rope just in case, though, although she does appear to have settled down quite a bit since before. "I'll do what I can to help the other members of the Fleet get used to this if it goes well, Admiral. I... I think I'm ready for this."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>It's Elner who answers Staren, rather than Yuna. "Yuna's computer is designed to function as a secure and versatile mobile network terminal, and since Hikari doesn't have a dedicated data network, it should suffice ..." The system details are accepted, and Elner interfaces with the laptop - actually 'logging in' without even touching the keyboard - to make sure everything is configured. "We should be ready now."<br /><br />Yuna doffs her uniform cap and lies down on one of the cots, settling the AmuSphere on her head and leaning over to plug it into her laptop. "It should be good for recreation, although everyone's going to have to get used to flying instead of sailing," the blonde idol says. "I've got a character in ALO already, but ... hmm. Nagato, do you think you'd want to be an Undine? Different races have different base advantages, but each one starts in a different city by default; we should probably come and meet you in the appropriate capital instead of making you come to us."<br /><br />She's not going to initiate dive until Nagato is ready - and she'd lean towards everyone calling 'Link Start' together for good measure.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren nods -- he kind of expected this reaction from Haguro. "I suppose we can just jump in... it might be worth at least briefly thinking about which race of fairy you want to be or what role you want to fulfill in the game... But either way, once you two are in game, we'll seek you out and get you together. Tomoe has teleport crystals if they're needed."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Worst thing that happens is you get dizzy in FullDive or something. AmuSphere's design makes it easy to remove. Just in case. Unlike this thing. I use this for Yui and a few other reasons..." Kazuto has... never really gotten used to the AmuSphere.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As a hardcore SAO player, he just can't tolerate the slightly less immersion. Particularly... when it involves real world missions in the Multiverse.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The 5% less immersion? The 20% less reaction times? Those are pretty critical to him.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He plants a hand on his hip while grinning at Yuna. "You guys can use Kirito, it's fine. Honestly prefer it. No offense, but the less chance there is of anyone blabbing my real name where the 'feds and others can hear it, the better."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And with that sort of blunt statement he sticks the helmet over his head and hops for a cot himself!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Hey Yuna!" He playfully tosses the NerveGear's network cable her way! That's his answer.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe says "I did say I brought crystals with me, Staren. I'm good don't worry about it." <br /><br /> She listens as Staren does a good job explaining everything so she finds she's got nothing to add about the set up of the gear for Nagato and Haguro. She smiles to the two ship spirts and seems to be ready, she pauses looking at the fairy for a moment almost amused at it's showing up. <br /><br /> "Some down time fun? That might be a good idea. I also should have a few things to help you out once we get into the system. <br /><br /> "Every race has a set of perks and flaws. I admit I use the same model as Kirito does I just don't work well with the Amusphere. Don't worry about the name thing and to be honest? I like it that way. The less chance of someone coming looking for my real body? The better. I'm pretty much usless in fight in that form. So you all ready now?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Yuna catches the network cable from Kirito, and leans off her cot again to plug it into her laptop as well. "Connection set, Kirito," she reports. "Anyone else before I get comfortable again ... ?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think I understand everything there." Nagato replies, moving to slip on the AmuSphere and to lay in a cot. "I'll invest in something more... comfortable... soon." With a turn towards Yuna, she gives a nod, "I think that may be best." she responds, with a thinking for a moment, shaking her head, "I'm ready whenever you are." a slight grin comes to her face, it's about time she treated herself to something relaxing... she hopes.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Alright, Kirito. I'll keep that in mind with any dealings in the future. I'll also have Furutaka and Kako prepare rooms for you all once we're done here so you can rest." and with that... she readies herself and closes her eyes. "Shall we keep one person out just to make sure nothing goes wrong?" and as soon as she gets a response...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Link Start."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thanks, Yuna. I'm fine now. Let's do this!" Kirito snaps closed the locking mechanism on his KB NerveGear and settles in... "LIIINK START!"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;... he has WAY too much enthusiasm for this. Maybe.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Whatever the case...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kazuto's body has gone quiescent. He's breathing, but otherwise appears asleep.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But his last logout location? Aincrad. It's gonna be a bit before he can join up.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"I'll keep watch for this session," Elner says to Nagato. "I typically do so anyway while Yuna is online."<br /><br />Yuna's only comment is, "Link Start!" and then she's online too. Kagura will have to make her way down to the surface from Aincrad as well, so at least Kirito won't be TOTALLY alone on that trip.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, there's nothing more to do but wait. Staren sits back against a wall and folds his arms. Snooping on Nagato's and Haguro's feeds to make sure nothing goes wrong (Hey, /he/ set up the tablets running their software.) Once they've selected races, he'll log in and go find them. Also, this way he can pull the AmuSphere off if one of them starts freaking out or something.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With all the pretty colors... and the language selection all done... Nagato's dropped into THE ROOM... Then the voice... Once the keyboard pops up, Nagato takes a long look at it. The ones she's with use different names to play and to protect their real identity... no sense in not doing the same for Nagato.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"T... A... N... A..." she nods, pressing the accept and putting female for gender, and when the Race selection wheel comes up and spins for her, she gets that stoic face again.. "Hmm.." She eyes the Leprechaun race in front of her, but with a glance to the left... a very, unadmiral like noise is made... and selected. And with a bit of customization options here and there... she finishes the character generation...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And from the sky she falls, head first towards the ground.. "What in the seas?!" comes the CAIT SITH avatar and with the ears perking up in a bit of shock, she gives her infamous nod and waits for the inevitable crash into the ground sequence... only that doesn't happen as the last bit ends up with her on the ground, feet first and no crater...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Haguro's doing a good job not freaking out at first! The headgear goes on, she lies back, and she mutters "Link Start." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And then there's the screeching noise followed by a sudden barrage of colors and words and oh dear god how is she not screaming already? Thankfully, that initial shock of everything coming at her ends fairly quickly, but soon... <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Soon, Haguro comes face to face with the bane of many game players: Race and name selection. Should she use her own name? An alias? It's not as if she needs to hide her identity that much, but considering the names used by Kirito and the others... <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "H... O... G... A... N." Would anyone question her about that? Hopefully not. Race selection takes her a while as well, but she eventually decides on the silvery Pucca race! <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And then she's falling. More internal screaming! And a little external, even. Thankfully, the impact isn't quite as damaging to her physically as it is mentally, although she's probably not going to be getting up just yet. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; What a great start to the adventures of HOGAN the PUCCA.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren, cheating cheater that he is, is perfectly capable of alt-tabbing out of FullDive sessions. Thus, as soon as he sees Nagato choose Cait Sith, he logs in and heads off to meet her, while continuing to watch Haguro, forwarding her choice to the others. They can sort out the teleports.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a couple of minutes, a GIANT CORGI runs right up to Tana the Catgirl, being ridden by... Staren! Except wearing fantasy clothing. "Hey!" He hops down off the dog, which just stands there in its idle animation. "So, how're you feeling? We'll meet with the others in a moment, they're working that out. Hagura's on the other side of this world right now."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;THE CAIT SITH CAPITAL CITY OF FREELIA:<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Freelia is a great walled city nestled atop a high-cliffed island off the western coast of Alfheim, not part of the main landmass. Greyish, somewhat mossy, patchwork stone walls ring the high cliffs and numerous medieval european and renaissance style CASTLE TOWERS and fortress buildings - an odd mixture if ever there was one - make up most of the city's construction. There's animals galore in Cait Sith zone. Caged animals. Critters meandering the streets with their owners and NPCs...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;THE PUCA CAPITAL CITY OF CARNIVALE:<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Puca capital, about ten minutes of flying north of FREELIA, is... not... quite.. a normal city. The entire area is styled like one giant circus and gypsy carnival with tents and wagons and colorful festivities everywhere! No walls. No streets to speak of. No borders. It's... pretty anarchically designed with only a bare minimum of organization. Checking the map is very, very much a good idea.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Both new players are introduced by dropping in from above. It's a freefall but controlled by the system to not be entirely TOO fast or disorienting. Both swoop in towards their respective cities, getting quite a glorious eyeful of the sights. Only at the last moment does the flight slow down and the system guide both to a gentle landing in their newbie zones, surrounded by tutorial NPCs waving for attention!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The NPCs are notable as such! The [NPC] tag hovers near their name displays, and there's a <span class=" bold_fg_y bg_n ++ hy">?</span> over their heads!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;N00b tutorials!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>As luck would have it, Kagura did have a reason to swing by Carnivale on her way down; after checking in with the quest boards and such, she heads for the new-player orientation/beginners' quests area. At least Kagura is a blonde akin to the real Yuna, but she's managed to pick up (and to some extent, customize) armor which bears a certain resemblance to her Light Suit. Hogan should be able to recognize her with a little bit of looking.<br /><br />... and if appearance doesn't do the trick, the name 'Kagura' might be a useful tip-off.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe will wait for Nagato and Harguro to log in, she'll just pull out a crystal after they do and activees it. She makes a portal which she steps through a second later and is gone from the base. Where is she now? Back in ALO and getting ready for the hunt for Hogan the mighty Pucca, this was going to be interesting. <br /><br /> Tomoe has been given the mission to get to Carnivale and find Hogan! What coul go wrong with an infamous Salamander tank going here. One whose not always been loyal to her own species in the game. She'd already be firing a party invite at Yuna's charcter so they could hook up and hopefully find Hogan. It wouldn't be long before she's getting looks from the local players, who wonder what the heck is the Iron Lily doing here?<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:162|Zephyr Windstar (162)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mistral's in Freelia, wandering through the various animal cages and peering at them before moving on. The Cait Sith and Sylphs have always been close, so it's not a big surprise to see the green haired woman wandering through the city.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most people who know the player behind the avatar, wouldn't recognize her as she just went with the random appearance, though her name and the Gatecrashers guild tag would make her fairly easy to spot by other Gatecrashers.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The flight downward was exhilirating to the Battleship and the landing was spot on... "That... was new..." a pause, "Oh? A slight change in voice? Well, this... will be interesting." she muttered, taking a look around some. The Cait Sith looks nearly like Nagato.. except a lot shorter... a lot less STOIC and a lot less muscle.. and a whole lot cuter... She wanders around for a bit, seeing the yellow question marks and the NPC tag on them. She tilts her head... and waves back to the NPC's before...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's that Unadmiral like noise again when the GIANT CORGI comes barreling towards her... and... "Staren?" she gives a formal salute to the kittyboy and nods, "This... is a lot different. I'm short. I have ears on the top of my head... a tail.. and everything is cute here..." a pause, a whisper... "including me..." ahem.. "Where is everyone else? We all did this at the same time right? We should be right here?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Haguro... No, Hogan's still shaking nervously as she gets her bearings, the sudden slow down not doing much to relieve her mentally from falling like that. Granted, the view /was/ nice, but she was also a little preoccupied during it! Maybe she'll get a better look later on her own time, but for now... <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She's supposed to meet up with the others, isn't she? Although Haguro won't notice it herself, anyone looking for her name would spot that she looks nothing like the shipgirl herself. For starters, she's got orange hair instead of black, and she actually looks a little taller! <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Thankfully, she does at least notice Yuna's and Tomoe's familiar faces despite the unfamiliar names, and she starts waving at the two while shuffling forward akwardly. "Ah.. Hello! I... Er. This is the right place, right? Where's the Admiral?" She's looking rather worried already.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>There are new players, hm? Auron's pretty sure the rest of the Gatecrashers Union will makes sure any of their concerns are taken care of, but he does want to be there. Just as a show of solidarity, and to let them know that he's on their side. So hopefully when they get stronger than him they don't decide to gank him. That would be unpleasant.<br /><br />Wonder of wonders, he's found a bird mount. It's not exactly a chocobo, and it's not combat-capable. But it's fast. And being that he was in the Capital City, he needs to be fast to get back to the Cait Sith zone. He'll get there eventually. He's got one of those fancy guild tags too. Also he's wearing a non-armored jacket that HIDES HIS TAIL. That's one thing someone will need to explain to Nagato if she's gone Cait Sith. 'Always protect your tail, or you'll find out why'.<br /><br />Anyway. Yes. Giant bird landing, and a Cait Sith male with white hair and an asymmetrical-sleeved outfit hops off of the bird. Bird disappears because mounts are put away. And there Auron is, though his username is 'Stial'.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"TELEPORT: TILDEAR!"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Teleport Crystals are BLOOMING EXPENSIVE. They've only recently been added with the advent of New Aincrad. And they only lead to either neutral zones, Aincrad floors, or one's own racial territory. As a Spriggan, Kirito cannot teleport straight to Freelia.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But he CAN go to Tildar, a town in the Northern Ancient Forest, and fly at LUDICROUS SPEEDS to the Cait Sith town.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It takes him about a minute after Staren's arrival... tracking Staren on the map over the friends list, he just comes BARNSTORMING in. SHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSHBOOOOOOOOOOOM!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Spriggan in black makes one hell of a landing in the n00b zone, kicking up a cloud of dust. SHEESH, what bad manners!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren folds his arms and cocks his head to the side. "This is the future you chose." he intones seriously, then his tone lightens up. "I mean, you /chose/ to be a catgirl. Your appearance was randomized, but..." He waves a hand to indicate the people around them. "Wouldn't you expect most people who went with the cat-people race to like cuteness? Also, I mean... I dunno how Japan was in your time, but in the early 21st century it /loved/ cuteness." He leans against the dog's leg. "Personally, I chose Cait Sith for the int boost -- I was originally thinking of trying to learn all the magics or something, but I ended up going with more of an assassin-type setup, with magic to support it."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren scratches his head. "I guess I can see how it's shocking if you've never done this before, but... you /did/ choose." He taps one of his ears for emphasis. "Careful with touching the cat parts, by the way. I'm told it feels /really weird/ for humans. I couldn't say." Speaking of which, there's something more natural about the movements of his ears and tail than the other Cait Siths'. "As for why we're not all together, each new player is sent to their race's starting zone. Haguro chose Puca, so she ended up in the next city over. Tomoe's gonna go get her so we can all meet here. The others... well, they have to come from wherever they logged out at. I needed magic and a giant dog just to get here in a few minutes." He pats the corgi's side.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And then, KIRITO.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren walks over to him with hands in his coat pockets. "Just how /do/ you go so fast? You're not a Sylph and you don't even know any magic."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:162|Zephyr Windstar (162)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And appearing over Kirito's shoulder as he finishes that barnstorming landing, Mistral appears, and taps him on the shoulder. "You're scaring the animals." she chirps happily, smiling a dangerous little smile before rounding him and offering a wave. "Heeeeey." Staren gets a greeting, and then, Nyagato has a face full of Sylph. "Yo, how're you finding it so far?" She grins a bit, hands on hips.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:385|Yuna Kagurazaka (385)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"I think the Admiral picked a different race," Kagura says apologetically to Hogan. Just asking about the Admiral is enough to confirm that Hogan is who Kagura was looking for, though. Tomoe's here as well, which is good, because --<br /><br />"Hey, isn't that the girl who sang a holding action during the Great Seal quest?"<br />"You mean distracting an entire city while the Alliance was raiding that underground fortress? I think it is!"<br />"And she's got a friend joining the game? HEY, KAGURA!!"<br /><br />-- because Tomoe's going to have to handle this on her own. Kagura looks over her shoulder when she hears a stranger calling her name, and the look on her face, ever so briefly, is much like the classic deer in the headlights. Then her professional side kicks in, and she walks over, waving and smiling cheerfully, "Ah, hello there!"<br /><br />.... that's presumably why she DOESN'T visit Carnivale often; being a folk hero as well as an idol does have its drawbacks. Still, knowing that other Puca are inspired by her warms Kagura's heart too much for her to deny ...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>'Stial' raises an eyebrow at Kirito's noisy, dusty landing, one ear turning to the side slightly. He knows Kirito's all right though. Takes more than a hard landing to put Kirito down. So he approaches Nagato and Staren, offering a nod of greeting, but letting Staren handle the expositioning. For once, let someone ELSE do that.<br /><br />Staren's mention of the reasons for choosing Cait Sith gets an amused sound from him. "The term was familiar," he replies. As for being weird for the Cait sith's ears and tail to be touched? Auron nods. "It is," he confirms. "The ears aren't so bad. You have ears. The tails are... very awkward to have touched." Which might explain the long panel on the back of Stial's long vest; his tail is out of sight.<br /><br />Zephyr's appearance gets a half-smile, and he emits an amused sound. "Hello," he offers to Zephyr, but does not otherwise distract her from the greeting of a new player.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Staren starts going off on int boost and magic and all sorts of things... Nagato - Tana - rubs her arm a bit sheepishly... "This goes NOWHERE in the Union or anywhere else..." she muttered, shaking her head some, "I.. just thought it'd be different!" Ahem... "I'll be careful, I'm not sure how to even work these things, they seem to have a mind of their own..." swish swish.. "Ah, so Haguro's a different race then... interesting." Then... Kirito...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Now that's the person I recognize. Kirito." A salute is snapped, "It's interesting here. The archetecture is quite nice and it looks... amazing to put it bluntly." she speaks to Kirito and then to Zephyr, only shocked to have a facefull of Slyph in front of her... "Umm.. you're a bit close.." she muttered, stepping back just a bit...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A nod is given to Auron, "I'll be careful to make that not happen." Tana mutters, looking up the other Cait Sith. "Familiar? Oh, those cute little pets?" a quick covering of the mouth, "I mean..." cough...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"While 'familiar' is a magic spell you can cast to spy on someone in this world, what he means is that he'd seen the words 'ket shee'" Staren imitates the original pronunciation as best he can "before, even mangled into cait sith, and so chose it because it was the only choice he'd ever heard of."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The dust cloud dissipates quickly. Kirito's there alright! And standing up with a face full of good cheer. "Hey guys! .. I see you got here faster than I did, even with that. Not bad, Staren! ... Stial...." He eyes Nagato, unable to see her status window and thus, her name... But deduction's pretty obvious. "Nagato...?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He rubs his chin thoughtfully, and a bit uncertain.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, he answers Staren pretty straightforwardly. "The flight model's kind of like shifting gears in a car." His black Spriggan wings are STILL VISIBLE from his back, so he demonstrates. First he spreads them out to an almost completely horizontal angle. "Start off in 'low gear' with your wings stretched out to the sides as far as you can. As you accelerate, slowly...." As he speaks, he keeps his wings moving. They smoothly angle downwards until they're nearly flat against his back and vertical, pointing at the ground... "Shift to high gear. The tighter you can squeeze them in, the faster you can go."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well that's... unintitive. And not exactly part of the flight manual.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe i:pauses at the Puca for a moment, the moment she mentions the admiral? Tomoe knws they found the one whom they came for. She grins looking Hogan over for a moment. <br /><br /> "We'll take you to her, we been trying to get both of you on our friend's list and I got the means to catch up with everyone else, I got a teleport crystal. So we should be fine."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The news that Nagato's not in the area is both worrying and reassuring to the Cruiser-turned-Puca. On one hand, it means not having to look for her in this brightly-colored place where she could look like... Well, anyone else. On the other hand, it means Hogan still needs to worry about where she actually is. She raises her hand to her head instinctively at the voices coming in through the radio, blinking slowly at the attention Kagura is getting before giggling quietly to herself. "Can you hear me? Ah.. Hello!" <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There's another pause, then another muffled giggle before she speaks over the comms again. Or.. Whatever it's called in this world. She's not quite sure yet. Turning back to Tomoe, the orange-haired Puca takes a moment to just step around a few more times and get used to her new gait some more. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So this is Alfheim... Ah? Teleportation, too... Alright. That should make learning the... Everything easier if we're both trying it then." She gives the Iron Lily a firm nod. "I'm ready, Miss Tomoe."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:162|Zephyr Windstar (162)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mistral back soff a little, then throws her head back and lets out a big loud laugh. "AHHAHAHHAHA! Sorry, sorry! I'm Mistral." she then folds her arms over her chest. "So, just got into the game? Figured out the menu yet? Flight? Want me to run through stuff for ya?" she asks, then turns to Auron. "Hey Stial, how's it shakin'?" she asks, beaming softly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Auron nods as Staren explains his statement. "The term Cait Sith is associated with felines in my world," he further offers Nagato. "Someone I knew used dolls in battle. Some were black-and-white cats. She called them Cait Sith." A smirk. "So here I am."<br /><br />Kirito's directions for quicker flying draw his attention, and he tilts his head inquisitively. If his tail was visible it'd probably be twitching with interest. "I'll have to remember that," he replies. "My flight time is still limited. I need all the speed I can muster." Notably he hasn't busted the wings out yet.<br /><br />He also asides to Nagato, "That's one of the benefits to Cait Sith. Cait Sith train Familiars. Some of those familiars can be used as mounts. Your flight time is limited. But a flying mount's isn't."<br /><br />Zephyr/Mistral gets a smile. "Reasonably well," he replies to her question. "And yourself?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren stares in wide-eyed wonder as Kirito shares a secret that Staren didn't know after /years/ of playing this game.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He almost wants to go try it RIGHT NOW but, y'know, that would be rude to Nyagato. Ha ha, it's a double pun because the second part of her name is 'gato'!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Auron mentions using tamed beasts as mounts, Staren pats the dog's side again for emphasis. It continues to stand there in its idle animation.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The explinations are getting ... interesting for the Admiral-turned-Kitty. "Tana." she responds to Kirito... a pause, "Nagato." but when he breaks off into the flight explination to Staren, 'Tana' tilts her head, "Flying? Like aircraft? But I'm not a carrier, I can't launch planes." well, she can launch seaplanes but, that's aside the point here... She turns towards Mistral and nods, "A pleasure... but menu? Flight? Run me through things?" the head tilts in the other direction this time before her attention's given to Stial.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ah, that explains the name then and how they look... I figured this race could do something interesting..." There's no way Nagato would pick it because it was cute... "So I can train Familiars... Looks like I'm a bit ahead of this then with my fleet... I can use that experience then."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This might not go well...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"In this world, everyone can fly." Staren manifests his wings and hovers a few inches off the ground. "You can learn to do it by moving your shoulder muscles with practice, but while you're just starting out, you might want to use the assist controller." Staren lands. "Hold out your off-hand like this," he does so, and the wings reappear, along with something like the Wii nunchuk in his hand. By tilting it back and forth, and using the thumbstick, he flies in a circle around the group before landing again. "You can fly for up to ten minutes, but you have to be outside, and there's a one-to-one recharge time. Imps have the unique ability to fly indoors and underground."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"As for Beast Taming... That /is/ a unique thing the Cait Sith can do. My Mom's gone full Pokemon Master with it. You can only have a dozen pets, and only one pet out at a time, but you can keep a bunch of different pets for different situations."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:162|Zephyr Windstar (162)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mistral hmms. "Okay, to open the menu you just hold out your left hand like this, and make like you're pressing a big button in mid air." she demonstrates, and a transparent screen appears in the air in front of her. It's impossible to read what's on the screen, but it's definitely visible to know it's there and open. "You can access your inventory, I think the Cait Sith have a Familiar's sub menu too, and you can log out through the bottom account menu too." she goes over the rest of the functions, but it should be fairly intuitive. "Staren's got the flight thing down, but it /does/ take some getting used to. We'll help ya out though!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Auron half-smiles, and when the talk of Familiars begins, he brings up a menu and starts looking through it. You'd think he'd have a big scary monster, right? Tough guy, scary monster. Perfect combo, isn't it? But no...<br /><br />As Staren's explaining the pets, there's suddenly a red squirrel running in a circle on the ground near Auron's feet. It stops, looks to one side and then the other, then chatters a bit. These idle animations, man. "Meet Ratoska."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's actually not unique. Spriggans can do it too, but we're not as good at that." Kirito interjects gently, tone cheerful. "I got that skill mod a few weeks ago. About twenty seconds is the limit. Anyways... yeah. The menu's a critical skill."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He also demonstrates, using his left hand to strike downwards with his index and middle fingers. Of course, it doesn't SHOW until he presses a tiny button at the corner of the menu. Once he does... it flickers into view. White panels and buttons floating in the air.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Everything you need to get started's in the menu. Not just inventory, but game maps and quest logs, your character abilities, the help menu... and whenever you want to log out and return to reality? Go to settings - that's the gear icon at the bottom. Log out is in there. Unless you're somewhere safe though, your avatar'll still hang around for about twenty minutes wherever you left it. Vulnerable."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe Smiles kindly at the orange haired Puca., <br /><br /> "Yes, sorry for the rush we'll get you set up with the guilkd and everyone else." <br /><br /> She gives her companion a grin and then readies the crystal it won't get them, all the way there but will get them fairly close. The pair would soon find the world shifting as they end up in small town. She looks to Hogan for a moment, grins. Then moves to pick her up in a fireman's carry. A moment later her red see though wings take shape looking very much like some armored Christan Angel at this point? Tomoe takes off and is going at full speed, why? She's got to catch up with everyone else. <br /><br /> "Hang on and enjoy the ride! We'll be at the others soon enough!" <br /><br /> They are also going at quite the clip as she makes for the Cait Sith home city!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tana gives a nod, watching Staren float around... then the nunchuk like thing in his hand and floating around some more. Tana herself, ponders this and sticks out her left hand, the wings popping into view and that controller. She thinks a moment and presses forward gently... and soon she's moving ... slowly ... forward... then to the left... and then right into the ground with a thud. "Ow..." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tana coughs a bit and shakes her head, dusting herself off a bit before she gives a sheepish look.. "I.. shall practice..." she muttered lowly, then she flicks her fingers to open that menu... "It's... got a picture of my character. And... mm... " she nods and tries dismissing the menu before turning to Auron.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tana eyes the squirrel, that cute thing and... with amazing speed, she plucks it right off the ground and into her hands and cuddles it into her cheek. "You're sho cute! I'm not saying those things because I wanna. I'd really like to..." Tana goes into quite the cute little voice while she dotes on the squirrel... oblivious to everyone around her...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Thank you, Miss Tomoe. That should save us some time wh-" And then they're teleported! It's.. Well, it's not quite as disorienting as it could have been, considering how Hogan had just been dropped into the world moments earlier. No, what's really disorienting for her is getting picked up abruptly and brought into the air again! <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hogan's a good passenger, at least, and she's even calmer for it since she actually knows that someone's got her this time. It's still an odd ride, of course, but at least nobody's falling this time! <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "That... That was certainly something. Urk..." She does look a little paler than before, but at least she didn't scream once by the time they land! Probably a good thing, too, since it's right when Tana is... With that squirrel. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hogan, of course, turns right around to keep her expression as neutral as it can be without actually looking at what's going on. "Hagu.. Um. Hogan reporting in. Sorry to keep everyone waiting!" She bows quickly to Tomoe first, then to Staren, Mistral, Auron, Kirito, and... Finally, Tana and the squirrel. Somehow, she avoids giggling.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:162|Zephyr Windstar (162)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mistral's reaction to Nagato's attempts with flight is, just to chuckle softly then help her back up. "You'll get used to it eventually. I'll even help ya. S'probably a good idea to test out the ability while in the safe areas of the towns."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Aaaaand then Nagamon appears and Mistral's mental state activates an emote. A big old sweatdrop appears behind her as she watches.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1|Kirito (1)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Wait until you meet Silica and her Feathery Dragon. Even in Alfheim that one's a rarity!" Kirito remarks, folding his arms over his chest and grinning misheviously. He's seen n00bs a lot.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Idly, he brings up his menu again and checks Tomoe's map location... the grin widens!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Auron nods to Kirito's explanations. Looks like the Spriggan's got that wrapped up just fine. But he does add, "Be careful about leaving your avatar around. It's not safe." But he does smirk a bit at Nagato's first flight. "We all had to learn," he assures her, confirming Zephyr's words.<br /><br />Suddenly Ratoska is grabbed up! Auron blinks, and is about to speak when he notices Nagato is just cuddling the squirrel. Much to said squirrel's chagrin. Auron begins to chuckle quietly. "Welcome to the world of the Cait Sith," he says, amused. "Cat ears, flying lizards, and adorable woodland creatures."<br /><br />Haguro's arrival gets a nod of greeting. "Hello. Welcome to the game," he offers. And yes, there is a red squirrel struggling in Nagato's grip!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren watches Nagato fly and doesn't seem particularly amused by her difficulties. "You'll get the hang of it. Real flight too, if you practice enough." He can't help but smile at her cuddling the squirrel, though! And then, Haguro is here! He turns and smiles to her, "So nice you could join us... uh, 'Hogan'!" How to tell her that in the west that is not a girl's name...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Auron describes Cait Sith Land, Staren adds, "And giant dogs!"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They're probably a quest reward of some sort.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe Says "Sorry about the rushed trip, however I tought it would be best to get everyone hooked back up. Kirito did you get them guild invites yet? If not hit them up with it." <br /><br /> "Hogan hummm not a bad name though I didn't expect something like that I admt." <br /><br /> An old Celberty her father talked about on an off came to mine but she seems more amused than anything.. <br /><br /> "So I found the last of us and now we're together welcome to ALO."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tana continues doting over the squirrel some... until she's spoken at, which causes her to freeze up. Amusingly enough, her ears are flat and the tail is stiff. "This... does not... leave this game..." she says back in her stoic, Admiral-like voice... before turning to Mistral and a nod is given, "The opportunity to learn is definately welcome." only to twitch just a bit at Auron... "I didn't choose this because it was cute..." lie... "But I will work on enjoying this.." lie, she's already enjoying this.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She turns to Kirito and she seems to unintentional perk up.. "Really?!" ahem... "I see... Okay." And with Tomoe and Haguro finally showing up... she blinks then frowns... "Hogan? And hello Tomoe. Good to see you." She looks up to the sky and gets a grin, "Welcome to ALO, huh? Looks like the Admiral has become the Private..." with a soft laugh, she looks towards everyone, "Shall we enjoy ourselves today then?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:863|Haguro (863)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For what it's worth, Hogan's at least trying to look like she doesn't notice! She even freezes up when Tana speaks, managing a shaky nod while standing at attention. The Puca does relax after she lightens up, however, even managing a small smile of her own. "That's... Yes, ma'am. We're in your hands, then." Despite being the same Haguro as before, Hogan looks almost like a completely different person. She's definitely taller than she was in reality, her default expression more confident, and even body looks stronger and ready to bust some heads! If not for her general demeanor still matching up with her personality, she might as well have not been Haguro at all.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:162|Zephyr Windstar (162)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mistral's about to speak up again, when a window opens up in front of her. NEW MESSAGE.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ugh, really?" she taps it to open and read it, then frowns. "Okay, guys? I gotta go now. Gimme a shout on the Guild's radio, if you need me, 'kay?" she directs to Tana, and by extension Hogan.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren nods to Zephyr, "Bye, seeya around. ...So." Staren folds his hands behinds his back. "What do you want to do, in this world? What role will you play?" He looks between the two newcomers.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Ratoska escapes as soon as the opportunity presents itself. Ack ack help crazy cat lady! With an amused smirk, Auron confirms to Nagato's request, "Didn't see a thing." Blackmail material? Nah, Auron's not the type to do something like that. Or is he? He's about to speak up to Haguro when Zephyr speaks up. He nods to her. "Take care," he offers.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tana nods some at Mistral, but when that window pops up in front of her, she gets a confused face. "Ah. Okay then. Should we meet up soon to work on flight or..." she looks around, "Floating question marks, curious..." she shakes her head and looks between Kirito, Staren, Tomoe, Hogan, Mistral and Stial. She thinks a moment then pulls up her menu again and starts poking around at the various things and soon, the equipment window pops up and she studies it...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"No equipment fairies?" she questions openly, before turning to Staren, "Ah... at the moment, I'm undecided. I asked to learn to have more interaction with members of the Union and to see how others relax to improve morale at the base. As for here.." she thinks a moment, "Well, I can use what I know as an Admiral to deal with these pets but I'm sure there's a lot more that I can do, isn't there?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She pokes around at the equipment list before poking at more menus... Friends List, INventory, Skills, the System Menu... back to the Skills and starts reading them. "Hmmm. Let's see... how does one defend themselves here?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren gives her a blank stare for a moment, then answers: "Weapons, magic. Armor. Stealth. Pets. How do you /want/ to defend yourself? Or perhaps... What do you think you have the skills for? Weapon wielding is realistic, though as you practice use of a particular type of weapons, you'll be able to use weapons that are... basically magically more powerful. Not magic, just... that's how it works, they do more damage. Pets requires finding creatures and taming them first, although taming is easier than in real life since this is a game. Magic requires remembering Words of Power and saying them to make spells. You can look up your Words in the menu, but obviously that's no help in the heat of combat. What sounds good?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Auron looks between Nagato and Staren as the question of defense comes up. He adds to Staren's explanation, "Cait Sith are a light race, so heavy armor isn't recommended. I don't think we can learn the skill for it anyway. But light races are faster, and can dodge. You can run on walls. My suggestion? Find a large, heavy Familiar that can serve to draw attention off of yourself while battling and take some damage, and dart around the battle doing damage that way."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Mmm. Well, as a battleship, I'm used to using heavy guns." Nagato starts in response to Staren... then when Auron puts his input in, she hmms a bit further, "So I've gone from battleship to destroyer..." a laugh is given, more a chuckle. "I don't mind being close to send thick shells into my foe, but I'm going to say there's a logical fact that I won't be able to access a battleship's turret here." she ponders a few moments...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Tenryuu uses a sword... Tasuta uses a halberd... Akagi and Kaga use longbows... and... Ikazuchi uses an anchor." Tana seems to be pondering weapon choices for now, "Though, taming creatures? Perhaps I should try my hand at that before I decide on a weapon type. Or should I decide on a weapon type before I go out to tame something?" she taps her foot, the Cait Sith's tail twitching angrily on its own... "So the more practice, the better equipment I can use? Sounds almost like what the SDP is doing..."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She fiddles around with the menu again and looks for a weaponry list... scrolling and... "Chakram? War Hammer... Assault spear?" a pause... "There. Two handed heavy axe..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren shrugs. "You're not gonna find any big guns here... There's crossbows, but I'm not sure if they're what you're looking for. Then again, maybe they are... they're a decent weapon, anyway, as are bows. If you're used to being artillery, you might want to look at magic. ...But hey, it's a game! Try whatever you like. You wanna try a big axe, let's go get you an axe and find some monsters. Do you want armor?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"I went with what you might imagine. Claw weapons," Auron replies. "It was an odd adjustment period." Given he uses two-handed swords out-of-game. Staren makes some suggestions, and Auron nods. "Your skill in battle outside the game will help you, too. Being a ship, your tactical abilities are likely quite good. That should help you out quite a bit."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tana nods, a light frown at the lack of big guns but that's okay, "Ah, sure. And... sure on the armor. I'm not used to how fragile I look." she muttered, "Magic? I suppose you'll be teaching me how to use that as well?" Well, the Admiral has to learn what she can, right? "Alright, lead the way Staren. I'm in your hands, Sir!" and incoming formal Cait Sith. Then Auron replies, nodding a bit more, "Alright. I look forward to this. Shall we find an axe then and some armor?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe says "Not really and hey it's fun, it's a bit complex but it's what happens when a pretty much mundane as all get out world starts getting bored more or less." <br /><br /> She seensm to be hanging back and letting Staren share what he knows with the newbies. She doesn't seem to midn and Auron gets spotted and Tomoe grins. <br /><br /> "I'm pretty much a hulking titan around here the Salamanders like myself are a heavy race. I tend to use sword and board. Though I also use a Naginata quite a bit."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With some instruction on what to do, while following along behind the three more experienced ones, Tana is tapping away at the menu... "Skills... Fire... Earth..." she nods, "Simple as that?" with a quick look to the three, "Or can you not see the specifics of what I'm doing on this menu...?" she tilts her head slightly as she continues to go along, opening up the menu one more time. "Skills. Axe... arm..or? Metal armor, there you area..." *tap*<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren dismisses the dog, and after some radio chatter, walks Nagato through a couple of the super-basic quests ('This is how you talk to people!' 'Visit a shop!' and maybe some 'Kill X Wildebeestes' type quests for later ... hey, a reward of some starting yrd is something) and buys her the armor and weapon she wants. (As for armor, the game distinguishes between Light Metal and Heavy Metal).<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then: "Now might be a good time to practice controlled flight. We're going to leave the city and head out into the wilderness." Staren manifests his wings and starts heading up towards the city walls, looking back at Nagato.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Staren probably knows the locations of the armor and weapons shops better, since Auron had most of his equipment specially-crafted. Particularly that long-paneled vest. Auron offers a friendly half-smile to Tomoe. "It can be complex," he agrees. He will also tag along with Staren and Nagato through the equipment and quest tutorials! And he'll follow Staren when he mentions flight. Though he'll be scouting for likely landing spots as he does. If Staren went through the Alf quest back then, his and Auron's wings probably look different.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After pointing out the weapon and the armor she wants and learning how to equip it, she gives a brief blink, not seeing the armor actually on her person. "So it seems that I might have failed to equip that." she mutters, poking open the status window... "It says it's on, but I don't see it." she shakes her head a bit, chalking it up to the uniqueness of where she's at. She peeks under her shirt a bit, "Ah, there it is." and then readies herself up, but when the mention of controlled flight is given, she gives a firm nod...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Out comes her left hand and out come the wings and Assist Controller. "Alright.." as her eyes track Staren briefly before looking at the controller. A quick jump and a push of the controller sends her flying upwards and then a tilt here... a tilt there... and Tana's shakily flying all over the place to catch up with Staren. "This is embarrasing..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren shrugs. "All of us had to do it once. You'll get the hang of it." Though he does demonstrate spellcasting, using a Wind Magic spell to make them fly faster. Eventually they come to a region where there are some Miniature Dire Antelope or something. That's probably a thing right? "Okay. I'm gonna demonstrate combat so you're used to the look. And also magic!" He uses a basic firebolt spell to make a monster target him, lets it hit him once, showing what the damage effect looks like, then dodges and oneshots it because this is a starter monster and he has high-level gear. "I think that covers it really, now you try fighting one. I suggest starting out with your spells. Try a magic protective barrier, then shooting a rock or firebolt at something, then fight it off with your axe."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:236|Auron (236)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"Don't worry. Everyone had to learn," Auron assures Tana when she expresses being embarrassed about her wobbly flight. He's not using the controller himself. He lands nearby -- probably in a tree, if there are any around -- as Staren demonstrates battle. He waits, out of the way (probably perched in a tree, since that's a thing he does).<br /><br />And once Staren encourages Tana to try combat herself, Auron offers, "I can heal you if you get hurt." So she doesn't have to worry about that.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:680|Nagato (680)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon reaching the indicated area, Tana shakily lands and watches... "Impressive, Staren." she watches a bit more and when the Antelope is slain, she nods, "I see, that's quite the show..." and when it's suggested that SHE try it... she turns to one of the monsters... another antelope... and stares at it. "Alright... magic first." muttermuttermutter...<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It takes a minute but a stone barrier comes into view for a brief moment and she focuses on the antelope and with another minute... a ball of fire is in her hand and launching straight towards the Antelope to which Tana follows, pulling her newfound two hander axe out and she swings at the antelope, but the antelope swings back and knocks her back a ways.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This little scuffle does take quite a bit of time... with Tana getting knocked down.. and healed by Auron. Magic flying. Axe coming down... It's soon over, with Tana the victor, but she flumps to her knees... "That.. was more intense than I expected..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:6|Tomoe (6)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Tomoe Says "Flying can take a bit to get used to but it's good fun." <br /><br /> Tomoe's wings flare out and while they are red they do look more like an angel's after all she is an Alf. She looks over to Auron for a moment grinning a bit more. <br /><br /> "Lets get going my friend." <br /><br /> WIth that she'll make ready to take off but she looks to Nagato as they fly. <br /><br /> "Don't worry about it! WE were worse when we started.:"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:42|Staren (42)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Staren winces when Nagato gets knocked back. "Not bad, for your first time in VR and using a weapon I bet you've never used anything like before. But hey, this is a game, it's a safe place to learn and have fun, that's kinda the point." At Tomoe's comment, he retorts, 'Speak for yourself.' Then realizes what he just said to an SAO survivor and looks embarassed. "Err... well I mean, but then I had some practice first. In real life. But I suppose it's analogous to... I crashed a lot when I was first training in the simulators. A lot..." He looks away awkwardly, tail swishing.<br> <br>
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