TDM 02

[mnemosynecrew]

TDM 02

WAKING UP
WARNING
WARNING

cryo bay malfunction
cryo bed error

loading



emergency override accepted
It's nothing like it was in training, waking up from cryo sleep. The sterile, cold quiet you were conditioned to expect is shattered. Alarms blare violently, ricocheting off the walls of your pod as if they're trying to crawl into your skull. Red lights pulse like a failing heartbeat, and for a moment, your entire body refuses to obey you - can't breathe, can't move, can't think.

...and then, with an almost violent shudder, force rips through your diaphragm. A brutal jolt, like being kicked from the inside out. You cough, heaving for air as the cryo pod's systems drag you unwillingly out of torpor. There is no slow, gentle awakening - this is an emergency.

Your vision is blurred and swimming in the red strobes. Emergency. The word itself seems lodged in the air, floating around your fractured mind like some distorted mantra. Something's wrong. Very wrong.

When you stumble out of the pod, your muscles heavy with the dull ache of cryo-stasis. It takes more effort than it should to move; even in the low gravity of the massive cryo bay, it's like you're fighting against the weight of your own body. Your hands tremble as you grab the tether, using it to pull yourself forward, toward the revival room. Everything feels too slow. Every movement, every thought, is tangled in webs of lethargy and confusion. Your brain is... wrong. It feels like it's leaking memories - images flickering and fading, like you’re seeing through a sieve full of holes.

This is not the start of your 5-year shift. No, this is something far, far worse.

A voice comes through from a speaker, disturbingly calm, cutting through the chaos around you.

hello, [crew member]
there is an issue
please join your crewmates
L3TH3 sounds unbothered by the alarms that blare around you. The AI has likely been running diagnostics for hours, while your body and mind were frozen in time.

The doors to the revival room slide open with a soft hiss, revealing dim, sterile lighting and the harsh stench of disinfectant. What awaits you are not only crew members as confused and groggy as you are, but others also arrive at the room from outside, ready to greet you. Do you ask them what’s going on, if they feel the same gnawing wrongness clawing at their brains? Or do you just grab your gear and get ready to go, trusting the training that suddenly feels so irrelevant in the face of whatever's happening here?

One thing is clear - something's definitely off about this wakeup call.

A BIT OF TURBULENCE
Thanks to the combined efforts of the crew, the engine is back on! L3TH3 is quick to continue in the direction the navigators had planned - before they were sanitized. The Mnemosyne moves through space easily, barely a sound as the purple nebula and distant stars light up the unknown galaxy the ship has ended up in. It's eerie but beautiful, the cosmic canvas shifting and swirling with colors that seem almost alive.

The tranquility shatters on the day after the new crew wakes up - the ship enters an asteroid field. The shields power up with a pronounced whir as the hard-light protection activates, creating a shimmering barrier to block the floating space rocks. While it's strong enough to protect the hull from taking damage, there's now a lot of turbulence. Each collision of small asteroids against the shield sends vibrations rattling through the ship, making it feel as though the very bones of the Mnemosyne are protesting against the chaos outside.

Quickly, furniture is magnetized to not fly around and a notice flashes on the CL-10, urging everyone to secure any smaller loose objects. As the asteroid field closes in, the crew can see the rocks tumbling in the void, some as large as small moons, spinning through the dark with an unsettling grace. The ship lurches to the side, casting shadows that dance like specters against the walls.

Outside, the view is still breathtaking - asteroids whizzing by, some glittering with minerals, others shrouded in dust and shadow. In the midst of the chaos, the beauty of the galaxy remains.

FLOATING AWAY
As the Mnemosyne continues to brave the asteroid field, L3TH3 suggests that the crew move to the holodecks for their safety. The AI reasons that it'll minimize the risk of injury, and the gravity will be turned off in there to stop the turbulence from shaking people around. It will allow the crew to float weightlessly for a while, free from the jolts that have become their new unwelcome companions.

If the crew make their way to the holodecks, the air is different inside, tinged with the scent of fresh grass and ocean salt as holographic projections spring to life around them.

In one holodeck, the program flickers to life, revealing a stunning landscape of lush green meadows dotted with vibrant wildflowers. The sun hangs low in a blue sky, casting a warm glow across the scenery. Gentle breezes rustle through the tall grass, creating a soft, soothing sound that is a stark contrast to the metallic whir of the ship. When the gravity turns off, it's like flying over the beautiful summer setting.

In the adjacent holodeck, another program unfolds - a breathtaking underwater scene. The crew members can see themselves swimming through the crystal-clear water, surrounded by colorful coral reefs teeming with life. Schools of fish dart between the corals, their scales shimmering in shades of blue, orange, and yellow. The tranquility of the ocean envelops everything, each breath a reminder of the freedom you can have within this artificial paradise.

For a moment, the crew can forget the peril of the asteroid field and the unpredictability of space travel. Here, in this floaty sanctuary, everyone can find a bit of solace.

Welcome to our TDM! Please direct any questions about the game to our FAQ and check out our AU WORKSHOP. If you have questions about the prompts, you can ask below.

PLAYLIST

THIS TDM IS A GAME-CANON EVENT, SO CURRENT CREW CAN TOPLEVEL AS WELL.
ANY CHARACTERS THAT DO NOT END UP IN THE GAME HAVE GONE BACK TO CRYO SLEEP.

RESERVES OPEN THE 1ST.
APPLICATIONS OPEN THE 3RD.

Comments

makima ● chainsaw man

[overlies]

《 WAKING UP

[  cryosleep is over. the outside world is blaring wildly and thrusting her awake.

this was not what makima emerwen had expected when it was her turn to work, but at least there had been enough preparation to be ready for most skews in the grand planning of things. despite the terrible aches and heavy resistance in her still stirring body, she eventually thrusts past her senses to pull herself through the low gravity containment and into the recovery suite— discipline, and something about following the designanted rules would lead her to getting situated. and less nauseous, of course.

she wondered, were the voices of those calling her in all sorts of ways— excitement, shock, fear, puppy-like elatedness— miss makima— had she dreamed during the short period of thawing before being thrown into emergency sirens? it was highly unlikely, but thinking such felt more wishful. she had quite missed dreaming, now that she thought about it.

the auburn haired, slender elheen woman in a white suit was about as pale as the color of her sector. she could barely stand on her own, and decides it best to sit rather than force her time in the revival room. she was cold, but nothing felt colder than the wrongness of the alarms. it's obvious that something is wrong. it's obvious that the crew needs them.

before long, makima is dawning her long white coat and gear, finding her glasses and scanning the turmoil, doubt, and fear on the faces of her crewmates. she keeps her hearing at attention; any clue to what is happening will do.

the stench of disinfectant burns her inner nostrils, causing a kink on the bridge of her nose, but brief as ever once she's settled her sights on . . . you. oh, you. makima smiles sympathetically, and offers a friendly opening when she says: ]

Come, now. One step at a time.

[ there's a lot going on. ]

《 A BIT OF TURBULENCE + FLOATING AWAY

[  having no small, loose objects in her living and working quarters for just such an occasion, makima doesn't need to do much. other than secure he tablet in the correct compartment, she is free to appreciate the galaxy's imprint on the universe outside. if one seeks her out for her professional time, she'll be in her office, a cozy and sitting in front of a spherical window in the hallway. ]

It has its own beauty, doesn't it? [ L3TH3 has already sounded the fall to the holodecks, she's on her way, surely— but her golden eyes stay fixed onto the mix and swirls of nebula outside. ] I just wanted a look before it's gone.

[ if you'd prefer to see her within the holodecks, she'll be there for anything that you need. the white of her attire names what she is, and the tranquility in the space she's chosen of a lush green meadow is perfect for a chat, if you're needing. most, if not all creatures trapped within the isolation of deep space need it. guidance to sort out your feelings and stay healthy. ]

I won't bite if you decide to sit with me.

[ she plays, tender and delighted by the company she could aid. the flash of her teeth is angelic, even etheral. inviting. why don't you sit? ]

There's much to talk about, isn't there?

( ooc; au workshop! makima is an altruistic elheen woman with only slightly pointed ears, golden eyes, loose auburn hair, a slender stature and considered smaller than most elheen. she is the crew psychologist, mother of one, and an admirer of humanity. )

turbulence!

[itdoesntlikeyou]

[ It's not Rin's job to sweep the corridors to make sure everyone's gotten into the holodecks for safety - that would be Security, if they're even bothering with that. Rin has the suspicion that the first round of crew, at least, will take the AI's instructions as a mild suggestion at best.

From the looks of it, this newly thawed batch might just be the same. They're making their way down the corridor, one hand braced against the wall, when they come across the new medic, their eyes scanning over her, then the nebula outside. They were ready to pass by, but ohp, no. Talking time, fuck them.]

Ship spent twenty years here. Fine with leaving it behind.

[overlies]

[ it's quite scary, the more she looks at it all. imagine, so many things they haven't seen yet. the unknown is uncontrollable, and unpredictable. who knew they'd be woken up so soon, and for that reason . . .

she turns to face the human, quiet and more reserved, who, she's a little more than certain wouldn't have spoken if she hadn't started it. ]

Is that eagerness?

[itdoesntlikeyou]

[Rin's expression is flat but their body language speaks of unease, and they keep any glances more in Makima's direction than truly at her. The fading bruises around one eye don' exactly add to the friendliness factor, and adding to the general impression is the way they shrug. All they really need now to complete the impression is some sort of weapon - too bad they're not in Security.]

Do you want to keep sitting there?

[rhetorical question.]

[overlies]

[ humans are very intriguing. is that why they live less? things just seem to pass right on by for them. ]

I'm coming. [ to which, she's then ready to go. ] Would you accompany me?

[itdoesntlikeyou]

Security doesn't have anything else to do if you want an escort.

[That doesn't mean they don't fall in next to Makima, though. They spare one last glance for the nebula and its accompanying projectiles, then turn down the hallway.]

Are you going to medical?

[overlies]

For just a moment, thank you.

[ They can just pass by on the way to where the ai tells them to go. Makima keeps her hands behind her back as they walk, but keeping her golden eyes on the human as if he were the most magnificent specimen she's seen.

Or the cutest, grouchy little pup. ]

And who I have the pleasure?

[itdoesntlikeyou]

[Under observation, Rin coils up tighter and tighter. Their shoulders don't start rising to their ears but being watched is obviously noticed, and the longer it goes on, the stiffer they get.]

Rin.

[In their mouth it sounds less like a name and more like something to be called. There's a pause after, in which Makima could introduce herself in return.]

holodeck!

[tarakan]

[ Hilbert wasn't the sort to seek out the psychologist even when he was back on the earth. As someone who's history was built on lies and deception, on his ability to sweep things under the rug should they get too bad, the last thing he wanted was anybody with the skills to possibly poke through those holes. As it is...well, they've got less than fifteen crew members awake. It's not like he can ignore anyone.

The markings on his spacesuit designate him as medical staff. Hilbert is a man in his fifties, also wearing glasses. He gives Makima a little nod before sitting down next to her, ]

Understatement of century, [ he muses. His accent is the modern day version of Russian, the in-game version of one of those towns stuck in the boonies, far away from actual civilization. ] How much have people told you about captain and previous crew?

[overlies]

[ what a charming accent, she thinks, tipping her head to acknowledge her division-mate— a human male. makima feels well to have him, but that last part is where her smile fades like a dying light. not enough to immediately drain all the good humor from her, but enough to make a palpable difference. ]

I've read the status report. [ the captain is still there, but the rest? they could have been her son. they likely could've been her kin. her heart aches as she slides her fingers through augmented blades of grass. ] My sympathies go out to them.

[tarakan]

Sympathies are all we can give them, [ says the man who, based on his tone of voice, has never offered anyone sympathy in his entire life. ] Their bodies were vaporized to the point that there was very little information I could glean from corpses.

[ Which is objectively annoying. Still, he couldn't have done anything about that anyway. What would he do, wake up in the middle of deep cryofreeze? Ridiculous. ]

Simply wanted to know if you were brought up to date on that, as I suspect it is big, obvious, pressing question of our situation.

[overlies]

[ she gets the inkling on that read. have you? could've been something to ask, but it is only a thought. the last thing she'd like to cause is an immediate withdraw, and it's imperitive that she learns more about everyone.

the more she knows, the better she could help. ]

And the waking crew? How are they?

[ how are you, indirectly speaking. ]

[tarakan]

Fine enough, [ said with a little shrug. ] No one has had horrific breakdown about their situation if that is what you are asking.

[ It's very obvious that getting Hilbert to admit to an emotion is like pulling teeth. ]

[overlies]

Hmm . . .

[ gravity shuts down. they're afloat in this immense grass field now, and for the time being, makima stays put, only hovering and keeping herself in proper zero-g standby. ]

That's positive, for the most part. [ it means the crew is managing, but, that doesn't seem to wipe the thought and deep consideration from makima's mild features. ] It'd still be best I keep an eye on you all.

[tarakan]

Of course. That is your job, after all. Doubt anyone would stop you from doing it to best of your ability.

[ The problem, of course, is that Hilbert isn't anyone. He's perfectly fine making small talk or talking about things in a professional manner. But actually talking about feelings? Telling people about his emotions?

Gross. Not gonna happen. ]

Just as it is my job to ask about things like physical symptoms. You have recovered from cryostasis, I assume?

A Bit of Turbulence

[anesthetic_rage]

[He'd been checking in with Hilbert when he noticed one of the other offices for medical staff occupied. Right. More people were waking up. Part of him just knew that this would happen. the ship was enough of a mess that it didn't seem possible for it not to be the case.

A firm, quick rap at the door and he checked in to look in on the new arrival.]

Mmmm? Oh right, the nebula. Got used to it after a while... [He wasn't the most poetic.] You alright in here, miss?

[overlies]

. . . I am.

[ she replies with reassurance, rising to her feet and looking past her reflection for a little while longer, with her shoulders facing the wall while her head stays turned to the window, makima's expression goes a touch more serious. miss. miss makima. who was calling her before— the man's concern reminded her, but . . . it's still so muddled.

and there's a knot in her gut. ]

A bit uneasy, perhaps.

[anesthetic_rage]

[Every once in a while, he got inklings and flashes. None of them had stuck around yet. Right now wasn't one of those moments, but it was definitely something that happened to him as well. But, when she spoke, what he caught was maybe something to do with all of the collisions...]

Shields should hold. Little worrying. [There was a faint shudder] But L3TH3 has enough self preservation to not crash us into a mini-planet.

[overlies]

[ shields were up and that was more comforting. but there's something else. of course, they were trained and prepped the best they could for this journey. many things could not go as planned, but . . .

this wasn't something that could be readily ignored. it gnawed at her thoughts like termites hidden in wood. ]

That's not the most unsettling, I'm afraid.

[anesthetic_rage]

[He stepped properly into her office, the door sliding closed while he leaned against one of the walls, looking across at the new girl and nodding, more to himself than anything.]

Can think of a lot of goddamned reasons to be unsettled. Feel like sharing? Bottling it up seems to make us do damned fool things lately. I'm shit at listening, but I'll try.

...

Name's Zaeed, by the by.

[overlies]

[ makima stares for a moment– before her lips break into a serene smile. the chuckle she gives is soft, a little sweet and plenty amused. nothing scandelous. ]

Those are my words, usually.

[ those words are usually said in a more professional manner, but they are her lines, either way. she inclines her head, keeping the smile from earlier. so, so interesting. so cute. even if they're aware their capabilities don't suit the situation, they still want to do it. that fine line between overconfidence, greed and empathy. ]

That's very kind of you, Zaeed.

waking up

[flavourtown]

[ Now that Jiaoqiu knows what to expect, he's found it easier to help out the in the second round of awakenings. Last month, he had been foggy, confused, nauseous, but he'd done his best to help everyone else. He'd stabbed himself with a couple of medication injectors and made do. Now that he personally knows the symptoms, and treated others, this time around is much, much easier.

He's been helping those that he gets to, hauling around a crate of water bottles and snacks, when he spies one of the newly awoken helping out. Ah, Jiaoqiu can hardly blame her, having done exactly the same thing, but he wants to tut disapprovingly nonetheless. ]

Here. If I suspect correctly, you haven't taken a moment for yourself since waking up.

[ It's delivered with a smile, and the rebuke, while being a rebuke, is genial and gentle. Jiaoqiu offers up his crate; water and snacks galore! ]

It's good to see that more Medical staff are awake, though! I'm Jiaoqiu, General Practitioner. How are you feeling? Any mental fogginess? Any tingling or numbness in your extremities?

[overlies]

[ oh?

there's something about makima's smile that seems static. she does not share any clear frowns or appalled crunches in her features— just a smile. she's learned to look your best, your most friendly and most impartial. she responds kindly, even with a touch of play in her voice: ]

You suspect . . . Incorrectly.

[ she's the first to take care of herself, how else would she be apt to take care of others? that's just silly.

you silly goose.

But she will take some water for later. Hydrating is mandatory for good health. ]

I'm happy to be awake, though. [ it means she can serve! ] Aside from the expected post-cryo symptoms, I'm doing well.

[flavourtown]

[ Jiaoqiu blinks at that response, utterly flabbergasted for a long moment. A... person who actually takes care of themself? On this ship? ]

Hmm. How unusual. Everybody else on this ship, myself excluded, seems to be living solely on a diet of coffee and whatever caffeine pills they can convince the synthesizers to spit out.

[ He laughs. What a relief! Someone who's not determined to self-destruct by way of chronic malnutrition! ]

Good, I'm glad to hear you're doing okay. From what I've observed, the brain fuzz symptoms can last a while, but should eventually recede. I'm Jiaoqiu, General Practictioner from Medical.

[overlies]

[ that's indeed why they have doctors..... but makima can only smile at that, a soft chuckle immiting from just behind her hidden teeth. addiction is an illness, you know. ]

Makima Emërŵen, Psychologist. I can finally, efficiently help with the crew-wide addiction to caffeine.