February Intro Log!

[rekindlemods]

Who: Everyone
Where: The Welcome Center
When: 12th February, early afternoon
Summary: The new arrivals, freshly pulled from their worlds or others, awaken in a strange place...
Warnings: Inbox death may occur. System overload at own risk. NPC responses may be slow.

It's a shuddering breath, a sensation of being pulled to elsewhere and finding oneself pressed against something on the soft and some place cozy. However, before one can fully stir, there is and odd, warm stirring sensation that lifts you up from wherever you've been dropped, when you begin to drift off once more.

'I'm sorry for this... but we need your help.'

Yet the feeling -and the voice - pass quickly, and when you awaken, you begin to realize your surroundings. It's a small room with what some might recognize as something akin to a Far Eastern theme when it comes to decor, from the walls to the sofa (or bed) you find yourself on. Illumination is provided by carefully crafted lamps, and even a red candle flickering on a nearby desk. The doors are made from paper and wood, with a thin frame; through them it's easy to hear other people stirring, talking, or coming to.

You are not alone...

On a small table beside you, there rests a note atop a manilla envelope (that oddly enough is enscribed with your name). Unfolding the note will reveal some answers in the form of a letter addressed to all arrivals.

Inside the manilla envelope , you will find: a ring with a key and apartment number on it, some kind of cash card, a map and informational guide to the city, and a second letter folded neatly on the top.

Odd... Neither were written in your own language, and yet you find it easily understandable. Soon enough, if you don't make an exit on your own, there's a gentle knocking on the door as someone comes from downstairs to usher you along.

"Welcome to Saeng Seong! I know you must be confused or upset as to what's going on, but we promise to explain further once you've had a chance to stretch your legs!"

Whether you go downstairs immediately or linger a little longer, eventually you must come on down to leave the small space, and sooner rather than later would probably be better. You'll find yourself in a well-lit lobby, filled with comfortable-looking couches and chairs. Along one wall are refreshment tables, loaded with all sorts of warm and filling food and drink, including some you probably aren't familiar with. It's just as well they're in good supply, as rain is pouring outside with no sign of relenting. During this time of the year, it's definitely something to leave a chill in the bones. Perhaps picking up a rain coat by the desks on the other side of the room might be a good idea. Who knows? You may just find something suspiciously in your size!

Speaking of those desks, two ladies seem eager to answer any questions you may have, names and positions conveniently written on signs on their desk.

Irene, General Assistance
Andi, Technological Assistance

Outside, and through the heavy rain and translucent glass you can see a banner hanging from the tiled roof of the building across the street. The deep autumnal colors on it match the welcoming (though rather damp) atmosphere as the letters proclaim:

WELCOME TO SAENG SEONG
(ENJOY YOUR STAY!)

Comments

[big_damn_hiro]

“You've got to be kidding me...”

Hiro looked down at the letters in his hands, reading them again, then one more time for good measure. He still could barely believe what he was reading. He never would have thought that he'd open his eyes and find himself in a completely different place, a completely different world. It was almost like one of Fred's comic books. Unreal.

At first the waking up part hadn't been so bad, except for the headache that came with it. The surroundings were a little familiar since he came from a city with many Asian influences. But then it hit home when he read the contents of the envelope that had been by the bed. His backpack was by the bedside table thankfully, but that was the only thing that was truly his and familiar.

The teenager blinked at the apartment keys that had been in the envelope. The intelligent part of him understood the logistics of the situation. However the rest of him that was a 14 year old boy was in disbelief and trying not to think that he was alone; not wanting to feel the pain of that realization.

Putting the letters and keys back in the envelope, Hiro ran his hands repeatedly through his mussed up black hair. “This can't be happening...” He sighed, getting up off the bed and stuffing the envelope in his backpack. He paced around the room for a while – but his racing thoughts brought little comfort. Finally with another sigh of resignation, he picked up his backpack and pushed the door open to leave, determined to figure out how to get out of this mess.

~~~

Downstairs, Hiro had pulled out his ball cap from his backpack and tugged it on over his dishevelled hair, pulling it low over his eyes. It used to belong to his brother and he wasn't parted from it very often. He didn't cut an intimidating figure at all, being barely 5 feet tall and very slender. His hair was black and his eyes were almond shaped; clearly of Asian descent.

One of the helpers in the Welcome Center had given him a large mug of hot chocolate when he had first come down. He had thanked her politely, but had shyly shrugged off any offers for hugs or words of comfort. The misplaced teen had found a quiet corner to sit in where he could look out the window and watch the rain and passerby. He knew he should probably get something to eat, but he had a lot to process at the moment. It didn't help, knowing that he was far from home and separated from friends and his Aunt Cass.

He sipped the hot chocolate, staring almost sullenly out of the window, clearly deep in thought.

[smallspot]

Hiro is so quiet tucked away in his corner that Diarmuid almost misses him. However, he is getting pretty good at checking into corners, especially since he can't help but feel like someone or something is going to jump out to get him after his part in helping Rhea and Mai escape.

However, all those serious thoughts are pushed away when he sees Hiro and recognizes who he is. The boy scampers over to where Hiro is sitting and jumps up and down waving to get the boy's attention.

"Hiro! You're Hiro! Baymax will be so happy to see you! Are any of the rest of your friends here?"

[big_damn_hiro]

Hiro was torn from his thoughts at the boy trying to get his attention. How did he know his name? He had never seen the kid in his life! He was so excited about something that Hiro didn't register what he had said at first.

"Hey, what? Who are you?" He stared incredulously as he realized something. "Did you just say...Baymax?" He felt a pang, remembering the robot who sacrificed himself for him. He shoved the memory away before it could affect his ability to speak.

"How do you know my name?"

[smallspot]

"Yes, I said Baymax! He is my friend! He showed me a picture of you and all your friends. Projected it! Right on his tummy!" Diarmuid points to himself to show Hiro the spot where Baymax had shown the picture on himself, "It was a really neat trick. I wish I could do things like that!"

The boy giggles and then seems to remember he was answering questions for Hiro, "Baymax told me all of your names and asked me to keep an eye out for you guys in case you were brought here. I had no idea someone would be brought so soon!"

[big_damn_hiro]

Well, it certainly sounded like it was Baymax that the kid was describing. He sat there a little stunned and more than a little confused. How was that even possible? Unless the portal somehow drew Baymax into this dimension in some kind of quantum physics miracle. He would have to puzzle that out later. For now...

"Um....yeah...well...." He rubbed a hand on the back of his head, feeling a little awkward. "I wasn't expecting this either so I guess we're even." He wasn't sure what to say. This whole situation caught him off guard.

"As far as I know it's just me here." He looked around, not seeing anyone familiar. "I didn't see any of the others down here." Now wouldn't that be strange to see his friends barrelling down the stairs. A relief and comfort, but strange!

"So uh...what's your name?"

[smallspot]

"It is too bad that it is only you, but at least you aren't alone with Baymax here! And maybe some more of your friends will arrive next month. Sometimes this place does that. It draws several people from one place in a short amount of time!"

Once Hiro asks his name, Diarmuid calms himself and bows politely, "My name is Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. I have been here since the first group was brought. If you have any questions, I will be glad to answer them!" His eyes drift to the drink in Hiro's hand, "Do you need more to drink? Or are you hungry? I will get you something from the table if you want."

[big_damn_hiro]

Well he certainly was enthusiastic as well as helpful. It caught him off guard also that someone so young was brought here seemingly alone.

"Thanks Diarmuid...I'm fine." He responded after a moment, glancing down at his hot chocolate. "I'll probably get some food later, I've just been trying to process...everything." He shook his head. "It's still a little hard to take in."

He glanced around them again, almost as if seeking someone familiar. "So...you were part of the first group? How long ago was that? Have you noticed any patterns to the amount of people or who was brought in? Do you know how they do this?" There had to be some sort of logic to this somehow.

[tadashiishere]

Baymax had come to the welcome center in order to add any potential new non-humans to his medical database, as well as to offer his assistance if anyone arrives injured. And while being wet wouldn't particularly bother him, he had brought an umbrella, just so he wouldn't leave a wet floor when he came in. He didn't know if the welcome center had any warning signs for such, and didn't wish to create an unnecessary hazard.

However, once he began making his way through the large lobby his scanners picked up a decidedly familiar set of life readings. Turning to view their source, he spotted Hiro over in the corner, staring out at the rain. Well, this was a pleasant surprise.

He toddled over. Hiro didn't seem to notice him at first, so he spoke up. "Hello, Hiro," he said. "Did you just arrive?"

[big_damn_hiro]

In a way he had been given a heads up by the boy he met earlier. But...seeing that his words were truth was another thing entirely. Hearing that familiar modulated and gentle voice - Hiro jerked from his thoughts, almost dropping the hot chocolate in his hands. He had long since had it refilled - and the hot beverage splashed on his hands.

"Ah!" He hissed, putting the mug aside, staring at Baymax like he was seeing well....seeing a ghost.

"Baymax..." He managed - emotions filling him at seeing his friend. The last time he had seen him, they had been in the portal. Baymax had sacrificed himself to get Hiro and Callaghan's daughter out. Grief, mixed with sudden joy....incredulity and relief. Confusion too among other things. "H-how??"

[tadashiishere]

At Hiro's startled exclamation, Baymax did a quick scan, just to make certain the hot liquid hadn't scalded his friend. Luckily it hadn't, and Baymax simply picked up a nearby napkin and offered it to Hiro. "Always be careful when holding hot liquids," he said mildly.

Hiro didn't seem to have the slightest interest in the napkin however, and was staring at Baymax, looking stunned. A second quick scan revealed indications of both grief and happiness. An unusual combination. Hiro had asked him a question, however, so... "I was brought to Saeng Seong by the same unknown process that brought you here." Because that had to be what Hiro meant, yes?

[big_damn_hiro]

The combination of Baymax cautioning him with holding hot liquids and his literal interpretation of his rhetoric question, caused a laugh to bubble up in Hiro's throat. Everything hit him then - this entire mess with being drawn into some other dimension...and reuniting with someone he thought lost for good.

Without another word, he surged out of his seat and grabbed Baymax in a tight hug, bouncing slightly on the air filled robot. The quickness of his action and his head being smushed into Baymax almost caused his hat to fly off.

"I can't believe you're here buddy!" His voice was muffled a little, but the emotion was audible. He would never admit to the tears in his eyes and would wipe them away before anyone witnessed them. But Dammit, they were happy ones!

[tadashiishere]

When Hiro jumped up and hugged him, Baymax gently wrapped his own arms around his friend's much smaller form. His eyes slid slowly shut. Though he could not feel quite the same way Hiro did, having him here was... very welcome.

"I have been here approximately one month," Baymax informed him. Then, after a slight pause, he added, "It is good to see you too, Hiro."

[big_damn_hiro]

It was a a few minutes before Hiro could say anything. He wasn't outright crying no, but he was still quivering with the intensity of his emotion. He straightened a little after he was certain he could talk again, still keeping an arm around Baymax while raising a free hand to wipe quickly at his eyes before glancing around. He looked up at his friend with a sniff, his eyes shining as he grinned. It wasn't an expression he had been doing lately, and it lit up his face.

"I just got here." He said finally. "I...never thought I'd see you again! I missed you." He said simply.

[ironyman]

Well, that's an invitation to be bothered if Tony's ever seen one. And he's allowed, because he's a superhero.

"Hey, kid."

Tony plants himself on the nearest couch and immediately begins talking as though he has been invited. While speaking he occasionally glances around the room--he doesn't know why the science division head thinks it's a good idea to send him to greet the newcomers, but he still doesn't want to get ratted out by anyone who happens to see him slacking off. Tony Stark only gets caught being a lazy jackass when he wants to be caught!

"I'm kinda supposed to be part of the welcome party--insider's view. Whatever. Job stuff. But I'm not really feeling up to it, and you look new so. Gonna stay over here for a while. That sound good? Great, thanks, kid."

He crosses his legs, clearly intending to make himself comfortable.

[big_damn_hiro]

Hiro glanced up at the older man when he was addressed, quirking a brow. Before he could even respond with something other than a 'I...uh...', the man kept talking. Well, he certainly acted like he owned the place. Hiro didn't know whether to be annoyed or amused. He chose to be neither, simply blinking as the guy made himself comfortable. Welcome party??

"Hi..." He said finally after the man settled. "Uh...who are you?" He hadn't seen him before, and he wondered if he was from around here. This was his job??

[ironyman]

"Tony," he replied instantly, still peering around the room. Finally, he turned to the kid.

"Tony Stark." He looked Hiro over as though he hadn't bothered to do more than glance at first.

"Wow, you're a little sad sack, aren't you. Cheer up, kid, it's not so bad. I've been here, ahh, year and a half, give or take, and I've only almost died... two times. Two and a half. One was a misunderstanding, so. You know. Kind of a loose two and a half."

[big_damn_hiro]

Hiro sat back, eyeing Tony for a moment. "Hiro. Hiro Hamada." He introduced himself in a similar fashion. He had a feeling he was going to be quirking his brow a lot in this conversation.

"Hey, I'm guessing you were a bunch of happy sunshine when you first arrived here?" He asked...then the rest of what Tony said registered and his eyes widened. If he had've sipped his hot chocolate at that point it probably would have ended up down his front.

"Wait what?! You nearly died..twice??" He sputtered. That certainly wasn't in the letters! "How??"

[ironyman]

... Okay, maybe Tony should have known that might make the kid freak out. Tony waved his hand dismissively as if that might comfort Hiro.

"Ah, crazy Russian, Not Russian assassin. Weird guy. Cool arm. Seems to like kids, just not me, so you should be safe. Wouldn't worry about it."

That was enough to sooth any fears of death by Winter Soldier, right? Tony seemed to think so, as he moved right along to a different subject, screwing his face up in a disbelieving frown.

"Wait, your name is seriously Hero? Parents had high hopes for you, didn't they."

[big_damn_hiro]

"Right..." Hiro said drily. "Crazy Russian, not assassin. Got it." Well it certainly sounded like Tony had an enemy here. One who liked kids apparently. Hiro wasn't sure if he was supposed to be comforted by that or not. He sipped at his hot chocolate to warm up the chill that had settled in his insides.

Hiro gave Tony a wry look at the mention of his name. Was the guy serious? "It's with an I not an E." He corrected. "It's Japanese." Well, since Tony had been here as long as Diarmuid it seemed...

"Since you've been here a while, what do you know about this place? Other than what they put in the letters..." Might as well dig for some more information while he was sitting here.

[spacejackaroo]

Personally Zeb could pick a few better places than this. And after being out of it for awhile just to come back? Didn't help his mood a lot. But he's not going to sit around and do nothing. What kind of jackass did they take him for? Once he heard about the influx of new arrivals, he figured he had to check it out himself, maybe give them a good scare. It was kind of like being in a prison in some ways.

He spotted the small human first when he came inside. Well it looked human, the huge head fur aside. He's not really a kid person, but he had to at least ask if anyone's looking after the kid. He didn't want to end up looking after another orphan, after all. So in came this six foot eleven purple alien to casually plant himself on the couch and ask in a gruff Australian accent, “What, you waitin' for your parents?”

[big_damn_hiro]

Hiro was sitting in a comfy chair, resting his chin on his hand, watching the rain out of the window. He was holding his empty mug in his lap. He still hadn't gotten up to get any food yet and was staring through the glass with a pensive frown.

Suddenly, he wasn't alone as someone (a very huge someone) sat on the couch next to the chair. Hiro looked over and saw...what the hell was that?!

"Augh!"

Startled, his mug went flying as Hiro jumped up. At the same time, his foot got caught in the strap of his backpack on the floor and the teenager found himself flailing backwards and landing flat on his back, legs and arms in a sprawl. He stared with wide eyes.

"Uh...no??"

He wasn't expecting a mountain of a non-human guy coming over okay?

[spacejackaroo]

Ok sure, freak out. He expected it from most humans here at this point. Good thing he's not Ezra or he'd throw him out a window by now.

It's fairly obvious that Zeb looks a little annoyed by the general reaction. Sure he gets it, but it won't stop him from feeling annoyed. Like jeeze kid, could you be anymore obvious?

“Then I'm guessing you're on your own, like everyone else here.”

He groaned, rolling his eyes, “I'm not gonna bite ya...I save that for when you're not lookin'.”

Nobody said anything about mocking the kids, right?

[big_damn_hiro]

Well this was a little awkward and embarrasing. For one, his startlement wouldn't have looked so spectacular if he hadn't been a klutz and tripped on his own backpack. Ugh.

Hiro sat up, and got to his feet, brushing himself off, face flushed a little.

"Sorry I uh...wasn't expecting...." Expecting what? Saying anything more might jam his foot farther in his mouth than it all ready was. The guy looked like he could fold him into a pretzel or use him as a toothpick. Obviously someone not to piss off. Jeez, he was even bigger than that Yama guy at the bot fight.

He huffed a sigh. "Look I....yes I just got here. I just haven't met anyone that wasn't human before." There. That was tactful right? "You caught me by surprise."

[spacejackaroo]

Awkward for everyone involved. One Lasat can go through the whole 'ooh alien' song and dance. The only benefit he gets from this is the intimidating vibes Hiro is picking up. Yes he's intimidating, thank you for noticing.

“Expectin' not to fall over your own feet?” he asked, a derisive smile cracking his face before it went back to the same old dour expression as before.

No aliens, huh? What an isolated life this kid must lead and Zeb means REALLY isolated. At least from his point of view, anyway. “What, you're one of those Empire brats? Can't leave the house without a battalion at your side? We're all a little caught by surprise here, aren't we. You don't see me jumping at the sight of your kind.”

Don't worry, he pulled this stuff with Ezra all the time.

[big_damn_hiro]

Hiro flushed deeper at the mention of falling over his own feet. "Yeah that..." He sighed, sitting in the chair he was previously occupying. Even sitting down, he felt tiny compared to this guy.

"Empire?" Hiro looked over with mild confusion. "I have no idea what you're talking about. I'm from Earth...uh...from the city of San Fransokyo." He honestly had no idea what this Empire was that the guy was referring to.

"I'm used to advanced robotics not aliens, but you aren't a robot." He eyed the alien. "Unless you're a really good one..."