AND DAYS OF AULD LANG SYNE, MY DEARS...

[maskormods]

WHO: imPorts!
WHERE: Heropa's Convention Center
WHEN: January 9th.
WHAT: Swearing-in in motion! To kick off the new year, imPorts and locals alike are invited to share their resolutions and goals for the new year, big and small -- and some of the locals would like to talk about what they'd like to see from YOU, imPorts! Individual threads for examples of each speaker may request can be found here:

CRIME
CHARITY
DISCOVERY

WARNINGS: None anticipated; let us know if this should be changed.



Another year over, a new one just begun. Welcome, imPorts to the first swear-in of 2017! The past twelve months have been a heck of a ride, haven’t they? In honor of Werriam Mebster picking ‘power’ as the word of the year for 2016, this gathering focuses on just what the word means for the future. Or more importantly, what it is people, imPorts and natives alike, wish to see power used for in 2017.

Today’s gathering is in Heropa in a rented out convention center. The main large room is reserved for imPorts only, spreads of food and drinks available along with small tables scattered around for individuals or groups of up to 5 to gather around and (maybe slightly annoyingly) bright and optimistic music playing softly but endlessly in the background. Throughout the event, they'll also be giving away ImPort Calendars for 2017, so be sure to open them up and gawk at all your colleagues and friends as much as you like!

The star events, however, are in the side rooms. In conference rooms labeled ‘Crime’, ‘Charity’ or ‘Discovery’ natives have gathered to present their case to the imPorts and ask you to make your New Year’s resolution to be helping the native population that counts on (and financially supports, a few more bitter residents may point out) all of you.

In each room natives take their turn to specifically outline their request, based on the theme of the room. The Crime room will have people pointing out specific gangs in their neighborhood that need to be looked into, or ask for heroes to come help train their neighborhood watches to be more efficient. Charity is asking for donations of time, energy, and/or money for specific causes or buildings. Helping kids to read, replacing that museum one of you burned down, getting little Sally that red sled she always wanted. Discovery related to inventions or developments the natives would like imPorts to focus on in the upcoming year. Anything from a moon base to free androids for all to specific medical advancements. Many of these requests may seem impossible, but like a kid with a wish list to Santa they’re all going to give it a try. Who knows what imPorts may be capable of when they put their heads together? Some of these presentations are simply someone reading from a piece of paper on stage, others involve flashy light shows and how YOU can benefit from helping. Some are sung, some have dance numbers, any way the natives can think of making their request stand out, they are willing to do.

So go to one or all of the request sessions, either to genuinely help, to mock, or just to get an idea of where you stand in the native’s eyes. Then take a break in the imPort only social to discuss the brilliance/insanity of the requests, form groups to work together in the New Year, or just get drunk in the corner on the government’s dime.

On the other hand, everyone wants to hear from you too, imPorts -- what do you want out of life, personally or professionally? They're encouraged to share with the public and their friends alike with a cheerful - if not entirely correct - reminder that it's easier to keep to resolutions if you share them! And if you do volunteer your resolution, you will be rewarded with a little gift bag filled with goods and coupons from the event's sponsors (cookies, a certificate for 50% off a wheel change, a gift certificate for one free froyo at a local business and a free coffee at a differet local business as well as a chinese finger trap, a whistle, and a child's handheld puzzle... not all events are all glam, imPorts!). What's the message you want to spread to these people who have such great hopes for you?

It’s a whole New Year, kids. What will you do with your power?

Comments

CRIME

[maskormods]

One memorable speaker of this category is a middle-aged, heavy-set woman with a kind face and dark brown hair, taking the stand with a baby held in her arms with a disposition that suggests that she's not made for public speaking, but has summoned up all of her courage to speak nonetheless.

"I know that imPorts do a lot of, um... crime-fighting around here, but it's just a band-aid for a larger problem. I live in Maurtia Falls and came here just for this, because even if things are better, they're still not great. Why not tackle the problem where it lies? Make sure that these people just can't get drugs anymore, make sure that the criminals released from prison get proper rehabilitation so they don't go back to shooting our kids? We need to fix these people and help make them comfortable enough not to need to make more crime. I don't want my kids growing up in this mess. "

CHARITY

[maskormods]

One memorable speaker of this category is a young ten year old girl, hair neatly twisted in braids and a bright, open face with an adorably toothy grin. ImPorts may recognize her as Celia from Celia's #LegoLyfe, an altrustic young girl who made her mark by collecting others' unused lego collections and donating them to children who don't have toys of their own.

"I think that if I had superpowers, I'd do lots with them. I'd take supplies everywhere with superspeed, and help old people move with superstrength, and if I had plant growing powers, I'd make sure everyone's gardens grew so everyone gets to have lots of fresh fruits and vegetables! My mom always says that if you can't find a solution to a problem right away, you have to think creatively. So why not be creative with your powers too? You can punch people, but you should hug people too. Um, that's all! Thank you."

After that, she scurries back off-stage, into the arms of her proud parents.

DISCOVERY

[maskormods]

One memorable speaker of this category is an elderly man with long, tamed white hair, glasses and a look of absolute awe and joy in his eyes to be at this event. When he speaks, he does so with the comfort of one who's used to events like these.

"Hello, everyone, and thank you so much for coming to hear us out today. When I was a young man, just entering into the realm of science and technology, I never once dreamed of the strides we would make in my lifetime. And now that you're all here, with all of your beautiful, brilliant minds, from so many different places, I've only seen our ventures doubled. I'd love for you all to share your knowledge with researchers. Think about what we could learn about the way the world works, the technology we could make, how much more we may be able to understand mankind and how we work. Oh, and even space! I can hardly contain my excitement.

Direct your attention to the art of discovery and education, and I promise you, you'll have an impact on this room that won't be forgotten."

Daisy Johnson | OTA

[morethan084]

[Daisy’s doing something here that she never thought she would actually be doing. She’s registering. Not because she truly believes everything they do here is for the good, but for her own benefits. It looks better for her to be registered. Especially now that she’s interning at Wayne Enterprises.

It went a lot easier than she actually expected, but even still, it left a sour taste in her mouth. She’s not dressed as nicely as she has been in the past at these sort of events. No dress this time, but she only just got back yesterday and it’s hard to keep up appearances completely when she’s dealt with a lot back home. Still, she forces herself to appear at least somewhat happy to be here.

At one point she grabs a few different things from the selections of food provided, as well as getting a beer. Definition of class and elegance. When she spots the calendar, Daisy near chokes on her food when she sees the images of fellow imPorts inside. She also checks out what some of the natives have to say, even if some of it is a bit ridiculous. She does find the little girl who talks about what she do for charity endearing at least. Although she’s always had a soft spot for kids.

She doesn’t plan to spend the entire night here, but she could be convinced. Especially if she gets swept up in a conversation. She could honestly use the distraction tonight.]

[quemar]

Robbie meets her at the buffet table, in the middle of plopping a bunch of chips and dip onto his plate. Because of course he does.

His eyebrows fly up and he just squints for a second like, maybe it's not really her. Just someone who looks exactly like her. That happens around here, right?

He clears his throat anyway, voice characteristically gruff like he doesn't bother to use it for lengthy periods of time. Which he doesn't, to be entirely fair. "Daisy?" But even as he asks he can see it's her in the coiled-up uneasiness with which she moves, always looking halfway like she's ready to bolt. Like she's got shit to be guilty about. "What are you doing here, girl?" He says, like he's not obviously here doing the same exact thing. But really it's a little weird, how many government organizations is he going to get swept up in only to find that she's working there too?

[morethan084]

At the sound of a very familiar voice saying her name, Daisy turns in the direction it came from. Clearly she was not expecting to see him here either, and she's not sure if she's happy to see him or not see him. After all, at least from what timeline she came from, they were still on shaky grounds.

"Robbie?" Yeah, no shit it's him.

"I could ask you the same thing." Daisy looks around, as if expecting that someone might be eavesdropping. Putting her plate down on the table, Daisy fought to not cross her arms and instead places her hands in her back pockets.

"I mean, you know how you got here. Right? They went over that with you? When did you get here anyway?"

So many questions. Sorry Robbie.

[devoutish]

[Alfie happens to glance down at the calendar at the same time that she does, and he immediately wishes he hadn't. It's nothing he hasn't seen before - even the most risqué images here aren't that bad compared to certain magazines he's perused back on his own world. But these ones being distributed in public, in mixed company, which is something of a culture shock for him. He mutters a barely audible fucking hell under his breath, and takes a step to the side.]

They're handing these out to everyone?

[morethan084]

[Daisy turns when she hears someone mutter something under their breath. Taking a step away from him so he had some room to look at this ridiculous thing up close.]

Apparently. I think I'm good without seeing everyone in their underwear though.

[Especially Raina. Daisy looks him over, and he doesn't look remotely familiar, so she feels pretty safe in asking:]

Are you new here?

Daryl Dixon | ota

[dirtyredneck]

Daryl's only around for a short time, a couple hours during the first part of the swear in. A check-in mostly to see if there was anyone he recognized from his world and to see what other new imPorts were around. He was also interested in seeing how his Calendar picture came out once it actually got to print.

His month in the general calendar was October and he'd been set up in a relatively tasteful general fall scene. Him sitting on some bales of hay, one leg folded under him while the other hung down. Wings half-spread as he leaned his back against a tree with red and gold leaves. Pumpkins and gourds at his feet. A couple bolts in one hand and his crossbow resting in his lap. It had all been an indoor shoot, so the background was entirely a backdrop, but they hid that pretty well with a combination of scattered leaves and photoshop. But because it was a studio one, he was also sitting in just a thin checkered shirt (sleeves appropriately cut off), his vest, and ripped jeans. No socks, no shoes, nothing else. He looked more ready for summer than the 'angel of fall' they'd been trying to make him out to be.

Grinning brightly as he pulled one of the Calendars open, he took out a marker and started to write on his picture, "To Julian Day..."

He paused to look up and asked whoever was standing next to him, "You think I could get like, a year's worth of these for free if I asked? One for each day?"

[Bump into him wherever and make your own starter if you want!]

[redshoerevenge]

She'd been milling around, really, definitely not intending to stay long -- not any longer than necessary. She found Daryl without really looking for him. It was really his voice she gravitated toward and there she was.

"Probably," Mako leaned in to see what he was writing and then laughed. "That is dedication if you are going to send him one a day."

[dirtyredneck]

"Thinkin' about it," he answered. He hadn't actually settled on doing so, but he'd been entertaining the idea. He straightened up and his hand found it's way to her waist without thought. Pulled her in to tuck into his side, "Maybe just on some of those dumb holidays he's so fond of. Pick a few each month and make sure they get there on time."

Daryl did his best to control the urge to ask her to initiate the Drift. It was an 'off' day and they needed to keep to that. But it was hard. He'd just have to settle for holding her close.

"You look pretty in your picture."

Robbie Reyes | OTA

[quemar]

Robbie spends a lot of time in the Crime room. Probably too much time. He's taciturn, but not completely unwilling to talk with other imPorts who are there for the same reasons, and honestly those reasons of his are fairly obvious. He scrutinizes the gang presentations way too closely, though even while gathering as much information as he can he does his level best to avoid eye contact with the natives. The kind of help they're asking for is not the kind of help he gives, see. The demon under his skin doesn't deal in rehabilitation, in improving neighborhoods, only in blood. It is hungry now, angry, restless. He's been around for a couple days and done nothing for it, even though they'd made a deal fair and square. He agreed to settle all of its scores, every last one.

But regardless for the devil's distaste for his inaction, he eventually manages to pry himself back out of that particular presentation area and into the imPort room, feeling somehow that he sticks out like a sore thumb both less and more in the pleasant, party atmosphere with his fellow tourists, picking sullenly at the food selection and being generally a total buzzkill.

But, hey. He's still here. He Registered because he's not really sure what else to do and he figures that at least he has an out here, because unlike at home with SHIELD, they've got no leverage and nothing he needs. His brother's not here, so he has nothing to lose. It's just that he'd just like to have some kind of monetary cushion saved up before he does anything too crazy—even the Ghost Rider isn't too down on the idea of securing a car, before they begin.

Either way, Robbie stares dubiously (maybe slightly judgmentally) down at the imPort calendar which had been generously thrust at him as soon as his hands were freed up from plates of food or drink. Christ. "... How long are we supposed to stick around?"

[devoutish]

As far as Alfie is concerned, there are only really two likely reasons why someone might be paying this much attention to the presentations - either they're a crime-fighter, or a criminal themselves. He's curious to find out which.

After a particularly long presentation given by an ex-gang member who now works for a neighborhood watch-style group, Alfie gives a little lean in Robbie's direction. "That's an inspiring story, innit? He's certainly moving up in the world."

His tone is just the slightest bit dry.

[quemar]

Robbie is more serial killer than crime fighter, but he does toe that line in one very specific direction.

When Alfie leans over to talk, his accent throws Robbie off enough that he almost does a double take, switching from flicking a sideways glance in the man's general direction to actually turning entirely to look at him. His brow creases for a split second as his eyes immediately jump all the way down and back up Alfie's out-of-place attire, but after taking the briefest of moments to find his tongue, he doesn't comment on any of it. Yet.

"He seems. Penitent." Sometimes that's enough. Sometimes it's not. Robbie could look—really look—and know for sure, but he wants to at least get through a the meeting itself without causing a scene. Or, you know, a death. "You not buying it?" He hasn't even thought to ask you don't approve?

Sherlock Holmes | OTA

[thevictoriandetective]

This was honestly the most stupid, inspid, ridiculous, tedious thing he'd ever have to do. Sherlock Holmes was all fake smiles, once anyone's back was turned he'd roll his eyes and mutter something disparaging about how their wife or husband was cheating on them. The only reason why he was putting up with this whole charade was just to blend in, but this was really taxing his ever-last-nerve.

'Registering.' He didn't trust the government--having the literal British government as your older brother could have something to do with that. He was used to someone watching his every move, CCTV cameras turned to follow him down the street. He'd come up with creative ways to lose them or to embarass them, so he wasn't exactly worried, just...it was annoying to have to put up with it.

Still, as he ignored the food and drink and spent the time trying not to get overwhelmed by the sheer data input of the crowd, and therefore not blowing up someone's communicator by accident when he got agitated, this was a good place to observe...maybe something interesting would come out of it.

Hazel Lockwood | open!!

[deadtective]

[in the vaguest, most nominal sort of 'I desperately need an excuse that isn't stupid' way, Hazel is here for work. information on gang movements and criminal activities, all in a room full of natives inclined to chat, was about the best gift that a private detective could ask for - and with a new home in her future, it wouldn't be too terrible of an idea for her to pick up a few extra cases.

in all honesty, however, she's here for the calendars and little else. throughout the entire event she's been gaming the system, coming up to different attendants and pretending to have not received one yet in order to receive extra upon extra. calendars left on the table while their owner goes to get some more food or use the bathroom are swiped. some of the calendar boxes behind the booths where they're giving them away mysteriously disappear when no one's looking. she's even willing to go through people's purses and bags in order to spirit away their copy.

the worst part of this whole scheme is that Hazel doesn't even seem interested in the calendars themselves. whenever her arms get too loaded down she finds a secluded area and rifles through them, ripping out a few pages to stuff in her bag before completely discarding the things like garbage. the same goes for any of the calendars she can't actually steal - a few pages are ripped out or, barring enough time to take them, mutilated beyond recognition before she slinks away again.

anyone particularly interested (or a victim themselves) in this bizarre act of theft and vandalism might notice that her target seems to only be the months of February and July in the sexy calendars. what significance it could hold is anyone's guess, but she doesn't seem inclined to stop on her own.]

[devoutish]

[Alfie sees her take one, and doesn't think much of it. But when he sees her taking her third and fourth a little while later, and notices her heading off to the side to start to rip them up, he makes an amused sound in the back of his throat, a half-chuckle.]

Not very happy about the reading material, are you?

Jon Snow | OTA

[song_of_ice]

[Between his conversation with Baelish and Lucy, as well as contemplating the number of benefits he would receive, Jon gives in to common sense and registers. There was no saying how long he would be here and matters would be difficult enough, given some of those that inhabited the city alongside him (Greyjoy!)

He ignored the calendar, not seeing much of the point of it, and eyes the food, but makes no attempt to collect a plate. Instead, he wanders into the different rooms, watching the presentations being made for crime, charity and discovery. The number of those gathered for crime disturbs him, though it is hardly a shock. Men often want the easy way, no matter the dishonor it can bring. They believe it is their right, given the way they were raised. Would he see these people causing havoc in the streets soon? Would he be forced to stop them?

The discovery presentation is fascinating, but there is little that he can offer. He isn't familiar with science or building, having spent his life as a warrior and a lord's son. It seemed near impossible, the things that were being suggested, but by the look of some of those attending, they had ideas of where to begin. As much as it interested him, there was nothing for him in this room.

It wasn't until he was listening to the charity presentation that he felt like he might actually be able to get involved. He had witnessed suffering first hand, had seen those without homes wander, facing danger and the elements, but still determined to settle somewhere. Given the things that Baelish had said about the people, left as causalities to this war, it moved Jon enough that he began to compile a mental list of things he could do.

In each room, he stood to the side, on the edge of the crowd as always. He was simply listening and brooding, but engaged for the first time since arriving.]

[morethan084]

[Daisy's been here long enough to recognize when someone is new, and it's pretty clear this guy is new. He doesn't look like he's really up for conversation, but Daisy's going to go attempt to talk to him anyway.]

A lot to take in, isn't it?

[baetiful]

I see you've attended.

[ It's somewhere between the crime and charity room that Petyr finds Jon Snow. His hands clasp in front of himself as he approaches -- visibly nonthreatening. Petyr had come to hear what the others had to say, particularly in the crime room as a lot of them came from Maurtia Falls. But apart from mingling with the natives, he finds at points it's more interesting to meet with fellow imPorts.

Particularly imPorts from home. ImPorts he still has yet to influence. ]

Have you made your decision?

Haen Hithiel | OTA

[alcheregis]

CHARITY ROOM

Haen spends quite a lot of time in the Charity room, since helping people out is pretty much her main thing. Celia is adorable, and Haen does in fact recognize her from the publicity she received.

"You make very good points, dear! I think that sometimes, imPorts can forget that we're part of regular life here too, not just the big events and dangerous troubles that happen. But you don't need super strength to help someone elderly across a street, you just need a kind heart. So in addition to helping you with our abilities -- which absolutely we should and shall do, dear -- imPorts should also make it easier for all of you," and here she gestures to those in attendance in the room, "to help each other as well."

She smiles, lacing her fingers together happily. "I've had the fortune of getting to know the people here, and you're all marvelously lively and spirited with what you do, you know. It's not at all like that where I'm from, and it's such a nice change! One thing I've learned is that you don't want people to do things for you, because you're happiest when you're self-sufficient, and you deserve every fair opportunity to be that way! So my dears: what can I do that will give you those opportunities?"

MAIN ROOM

Haen is pretty relieved to have a Swear-In that doesn't appear ready to implode at the drop of a hat, and mingles freely in the main room with the other imPorts. She's dressed down a bit today, on account of this not being a formal gathering.

She'll be asking about what's going on in the Crime and Discovery rooms, since she's spent almost all her time in the Charity one. And she wants to hear about any requests made of them, no matter how outrageous they seem. She's even got a little notebook and pen, and is taking surprisingly attentive notes.

"Pardon, dear? Go back a moment... he wanted you to find what?"

Alfie Solomons | OTA

[devoutish]

A - conferences

[Alfie has been here for over four months now, and he's never been to a swear-in ceremony. Finally, he's decided to see what the fuss is all about.

He ducks into each of the ongoing conferences, always taking a seat in the back and just observing, paying attention to both the speakers and the reactions of the audience. People sitting near him in the discovery panel might notice him snorting, quietly and derisively, at some of the ideas proposed, but other than that, he doesn't draw attention to himself... until the subject of resolutions comes up. Then he truly can't resist. He accepts the offer to speak and ambles up to the stage, cane in hand.]

Yeah, hello. As it happens, I do have an idea of how I'd like to help the natives here over the coming months. We've heard from some of you--

[He makes brief eye contact with a couple of natives in the crowd.]

-- who aren't happy about needing to support us while we're here. Now, that's fair; I completely understand that. Which is why I'll be increasing my daily Porter use twofold, in hopes of getting a Porter glitch and taking myself off your hands. That'd be nice, wouldn't it? You'll have one less imPort to pay for - until the next load comes in - and I'll be through with hearing your fucking whinging. Thank you.

[And he tips his hat to the audience, and heads back to his seat. Never give Alfie Solomons microphone access, people.]

[B - main room]

[At least he's generally well-behaved in here. He makes his way through the food line, helping himself to a generously-portioned plate, and spends a little bit of time milling around. He doesn't plan to stay for too long now that the conferences are winding down, but he does give the calendars a look (he doesn't take one), and he sorts through his gift bag (he cannot for the life of him figure out what the Chinese finger trap is supposed to be). ]

Takatsukasa Mai | OTA

[dancermai]

Main Room
[She hasn't been here for very long yet, only just arrived a short while ago and barely had time to settle into her new home but at least she's already made one friend. But after reading through the pile of information she's been given, this seemed like the right choice to make. And she's always the one to want to help when she can. Everything worked better when people helped each other.

Although she still wasn't quite sure exactly what she was supposed to do here. Swear in, sign up and eat food? Here she was quietly going through the food on her own and picking out the things look tasty while figuring out what the next best option was going to be.]

Charity
[A quick look into the other two rooms gave her the impression that she wasn't going to be the most helpful. Fighting wasn't something she had too much experience in. That was definitely best left to one of the others. And discovering things ...as curious as she was when it came to exploring, also wasn't her strong suit but charity, she could do that. She could definitely help out the people who needed her help and try to rally people around to help those in need.

That was her strong suit!

And when one of the performances involved any music, you could almost guarantee she was almost dancing along while she watched.]

charity!

[helpline]

[ The Doctor had been sitting behind Mai during that last presentation. Her enthusiasm's a bit contagious and he can't help but tap his foot along to the music as well. So, when they're taking the instruments down and changing things up in between performances, the Doctor lightly taps the back of Mai's seat. ]

You know, I think there's enough space in the back that if you want to actually get up and dance next time, there'll be enough room.

Main Room

[darkpants_warmfeeling]

[Jacob spots Mai while she's checking out the information, and approaches her with a helpful look on his face. He's been her long enough that he feels qualified to help new imPorts adjust, and she had 'new imPort' written all over her.]

Hey. You settling in all right?