[The allfather is looking pretty solemn when he addresses the network. He's seated at a desk with the backdrop of bookshelves -- very National Address-like, with his hands folded on the surface of the desk. He's not happy about having to make this statement, but he figures a little damage control is necessary, so here you go.]

I'm sure all of you noticed our little visitor the other night. First of all, we thank you for your efforts in defending the city and its populace. Repairs are underway, but they'll take a few days to complete, so pardon the dust.

More importantly, we're sure you're all wondering what this "war" is about. My colleagues have assured me that a fair payment for your work would be some information, so here's a rundown. I won't repeat it, so pay attention the first time.

This world is called Yggdrasil. It's divided into several countries, most of which are of no consequence to you right now. The important ones are Muspellheim, which is ruled by the fire giant king Surt, and Thrymheim, ruled by queen Thiazi of the frost giants. The closed gates in the city lead to those two places. The third gate leads to Utgard, which is neutral territory as of right now.

The war that was "declared" to you all is one that's really been going on for all of eternity. Prophecies foretell that the world will grow sick, and when it does the forces of fire and frost will battle those of the gods in a war called Ragnarok. At the end, both will be destroyed, and the world will be reborn into a new form.

Now I'm sure you're all going to hear that and complain that it has nothing to do with you, so you can hold your tongues on that until I've finished. The reason it has something to do with you is that Yggdrasil is the world above all worlds. It's connected to every single world any one of you Travellers has come from, and when it's "reset", yours will be too. Everything you've ever done, everyone you know, and everything you've ever fought for will cease to exist. A very lucky few will be chosen to survive and rebuild their worlds, but they may not be you or anyone you care about. And that's why you need to keep doing what you've been doing, and preparing for combat in the meantime.

The way this city looks is the sickness. It's begun to spread to other regions, and you are the only gamble left. If we can reverse the symptoms here, we can tilt the balance so that the battle will be won, and nothing will need to be remade.

If you have useful questions, you can ask, but I won't be comforting you or answering any demands. Your situation is as dire as ours. That's all.

So, if the dragon is to believed, there's a war coming, and we're all expected to participate. [He pauses, then shakes his head.] No, maybe not expected, but if someone's planning on attacking the city, then it affects all of us anyway. With the walls sealing us in, we've nowhere else to go.

That means we'll be seeing more of what happened--the fires, the injuries--and we need to be prepared when they strike next. I don't know about the newer folk, but a lot of us who were here since the beginning have been practicing the powers the gods gave us. I think...if we're going to give ourselves a good chance of surviving this war, we should all try to work together...help each other.

[There's a pause as he fiddles with something off-screen.] I was thinking, each house should have a few people volunteer to teach the newer members how their powers work. We all sort of blundered through it the first time around, but I don't think we have the time to do that anymore. Not if the dragon and its companions are serious about the war.

Anyway, Sigyn's part of the city has a hospital, and the healers there are--[Whatever he's about to say next is lost in a sudden yelp. Merlin jerks his hand back and frowns at it, just as a smallish form practically launches itself at him.

And down he goes, flailing his arms as he falls off his chair. The bracelet manages to catch the words that sound suspiciously like "Ow! What was that for, Arch--" before the video cuts off.]

Hey, um--!! I know there's tons of posts here and everything about the dragon and all and the fires and fixing things, but did anyone happen to see the castle when it happened?? The one we first arrived in at the center of town. It was glowing! Or for a little bit it was anyway, I only caught a few minutes of it.

Here--

[ Adel rummages around for a second before producing a BEAUTIFUL HAND-DRAWN MASTERPIECE in front of the screen for people to see ]



It looked kind of like this! Except it kind of glowed white not yellow. Anyway, it happened! I wish I'd taken a video of it... Does anyone by chance have one?? I'd love to study it! It looked like some sort of high-level magic but...I don't think anyone's been allowed back inside the castle since we left it right? So something had to be causing it!

[Yuri is seated at a desk, in his manager's office above the tea room. Close observation will reveal that he looks rather weary. He hasn't been sleeping very well, or taking much time to rest.]

To you newcomers, welcome. My name is Yuri Petrov. As some of you already know, I'm interested in working with others to organize a simple, practical justice system, primarily focused on crime deterrence and public safety. Please contact me if you're interested in being involved in the process. I don't mean to take charge of this effort, merely to assist in organizing it.

[He wants to be involved in public affairs, but he'd prefer not to be the leading figure. Some respect and attention are desirable, but a more background role suits him, and his purposes, better.

He's interrupted in his speech by a small, gray cat jumping up onto his desk and his papers. He smiles at the animal. The cat is still somewhat shadowy, but it is beginning to take on a more definite form in Yuri's presence. His office, too, is beginning to take on color. Perhaps there are some benefits to feeling powerful, if hidden, emotions at all times.]

There's no need for you to be up here, Skazka.

[Yet he doesn't shoo her away, as she rubs the side of her face against his hand. He continues to address the network.]

I'd also like to invite those of you who enjoy tea or baked goods other than cupcakes to visit the Hrafn Tea Room in Odin. [He had declined to take part in the cupcake contest.] It's near the library, and can be easily recognized by the raven on its sign. I'm the manager. If you'd like to speak to me, you need only ask the staff.

We're hiring, if anyone is interested.

[Audio again! It's what Euri is most comfortable with, and typing still takes her way too long.]

I figured it would be a good idea to warn you all about a really dangerous criminal from my world. The gods have been picking some really bizarre new people to help save the world, so this is just in case he shows up!

[And then she abruptly switches over to video. Unfortunately, she's holding a picture up so it's impossible to actually see her.]

( Not cut ICly. )

This guy is a necromancer. If you don't know what that is go look it up in the library, but in simple terms it means he's dangerous. His name is Adel, but he goes by a bunch of other titles like 'the Harbinger', 'Black Death', 'Plaguebringer' and 'the Dead Walker'. If you see him let me know immediately! I'm a bounty hunter so I can take care of him.

[Then she switches back to audio.]

Oh, and - um - if anyone's interested, I've got a job at an apothecary. It's in the Freya's district, and it's pretty small so a lot of people should stop by and buy stuff! So I can get a raise....

((NOTE: The character in the wanted poster does not actually exist in Euri's world! I just needed someone who looked like him c: So assume they don't look exactly the same to avoid any potential future fourth wall breakage. Thanks~))

*Sitting around out front of the Loki house, Aoto is raising a hand in greeting as he starts up the video.*

Yo, Asgard! How's the great fallout of the war of cupcakes treating you? Good? Good.

So, uh. This is going to be a bit of a weird request here. See, I will not deny I'm a bit lacking in knowledge about certain topics... Namely because I've never heard of the things before, so... I just need a bit of a rundown on a few things.

Namely, does anybody know stuff about the mafia, yakuza, or how to go about making a very minor case of a zombie outbreak?

...

This is one heck of a thing for a guy to make his first video about, huh?

[ FILTERED FROM SHION UZUKI AND KOS-MOS ]

[ Sunlight glints off silverware on the café table where he has set his bracelet. Leaning back in a chair, Jr. stares off at some distant point beyond the camera, gathering his thoughts. Eventually, he turns to address the transmission, expression—for those who know him—uncharacteristically solemn. ]

Got a question. If there are people here, people you knew from your own worlds back home… [ A tense pause before he plunges on to the crux of the matter. ] Well, say that they’re not, ya know, up to speed with you, like you’re from a point in their future.

[ He absently picks up a spoon and spins it, just to keep his hands busy. ]

What have you done about it? I mean, have you told them? Or…

[ The spoon clinks loudly as it spins into a glass. A nearby waitress gives him a look. ]

…or have you just kept it to yourself?

If you wanna filter your response to me, but aren’t sure how, I’ll show you. [ /brief tutorial on filtering transmissions. ]

So let’s hear what you’ve got.

[It starts with the image of a rugged young man, something of a twinkle in his eye despite an otherwise serious expression.]

Looks like I won't be making it to training today. I'm sure Arthur will be pleased.

[Sarcasm, because he knows he'll be anything but pleased. The gleam in Gwaine's eyes...brightens a little at that.]

Just as well, since I already feel like I've already been beat around the head. But not enough that I won't give my kidnappers a run for their money if I ever get my hands on them.

My name is Gwaine. Sir Gwaine, if you prefer. And now that you have my name, how about telling me where I can find the nearest tavern?

Bored, bored, bored. [Their claws are drumming irritably against the table, their bestial jaws propped up by their other hand.] So we're going to ask you all a question, because we can. Answer or don't! You sass us enough, and we'll hunt you down and yank your spine out through your throat.

[They pause and stare at that, lips curling back so their teeth are even larger and glistening. With that, they burst out laughing.]

Only kidding!

[ panty's video feed turns on without much ceremony but with the way she's smirking, the viewer can immediately tell she's up to no good. ]

Hey fuckers, guess what? Panty Anarchy's in the house now so the party can really get started. I just got one request from the lot of you idiots, so listen up. It's fuckin' important.

( cut for NSFW discussions )

( ooc | ... i... am so sorry. )

Hello, hello, hello, people of Asgard!

[Why, there seems to be a very cheerful-looking face peering at your screens now. And this face just happens to have eyes that are clocks. As in actual clocks. Feel free to react accordingly.]

Just wanted to give a big welcome to all the new people, a pleasure to have you all! I hope to get to know you. My name is Cheriour, and I'm an angel of the Lord.

Now, some of you may be asking yourselves, "what exactly is an angel"? [He pauses briefly, puffing his chest out as if he's really proud that he can answer this obviously vital question.] Well, let me tell you! I come from a place which contains a world called Earth. We have a single God who created this world and all its inhabitants.

Yes, you heard that correctly. One god. Not multiple. This may be hard to believe for you, but trust me, me hearing about multiple gods in your worlds surprised me because it's rather frowned in our culture...anyways, enough about that! We angels serve God with all His duties, and we look over humanity and ensure that good people are rewarded and protected and understand the way of God.

( ooc cut for TL;DR and PICTURES )

[A pause.]

So! Um. That's it, I suppose. If you have anymore questions about angels in my world, don't hesitate to ask! I'll answer them as best as I can, okay?

 [Before Yamada turns the video feed on, she makes sure that the camera angel is right - not too close so that only her face is showing, but not too far either. Basically, the feed shows her from the waist up, grinning as she gives her hair a slight flip.]

Hey, Asgard! [She beams slightly, giving a victory sign, winking at the screen before giving a small huff of determination.] I know that we're stuck here and all... 

[And Yamada twirls her hair awkwardly, her face flushing red slightly, as she looks away for a mere fraction of a second before staring at the screen, speaking with a low, yet audible voice.] But... has anyone seen any of gods and goddesses here?

[She then looks away from the screen entirely, her body angled to the side as she puts up a fist in triumph.] 

['Eheheh... this way, I can get both vital information on them and a way out! It's pure genius, especially for the Queen of the school! Sure, I may have graduated, but that means I can start a new life - at K University! But that's not important. I want to know if any of those gods are doing this.. or maybe that!

But wait! Aren't certain gods related? That would mean... that if they're having sex, it's actually incest? Eheh... this could be the biggest scandal of the year!

"Gods having sex for all eternity..." That kind of sounds like a good idea to masturbate to -- Wait! Get yourself together! You already promised not to do this unless it's to Kosuda! 

T... That idiot.']

[Yamada then shakes her head before giving a determined look, grinning from ear to ear.] Anyway, I'm Yamada, it's nice to meet you, despite these odd circumstances. And if you see a plain guy who goes by the name of Kosuda Takashi or my friend, Takeshita, could you tell me?

... Pretty please? It's really important!

[The video starts and a beautiful person can be seen staring intently at the device. Long, silky silver hair cascades freely against his bangs. Rich amber eyes are focused intently on whoever is looking. ]

Hello my lovelies~

[If it’s not for his voice you would be prone to believe you were staring at a attractive woman. A strand of pale hair is flicked back dramatically as he cocks his head to the side and offers a small mysterious smile.]

I’m looking for my dear family members. Has anyone seen some handsome Sohmas running around?

[His smile becomes a little wider.]

If there’s something our family was blessed with, it’s beauty. I’m the perfect example, don’t you think so? Mmm!

[And here he turns and poses, one hand on his hip while the other holds his chin thoughtfully.]

Don’t worry. Stare as much as you like. My beauty is meant to be shared!

[Vain much? And he might just be opening a few of those buttons to show more of his beauty. Fortunately he seems to stop for now and instead focuses once again on the device. A hint of worry reaches those features.]

Is this some sort of abduction? It would explain a lot of things. Royalty are always easy targets. My prestigious bloodline has always been in peril. The brave prince abducted while his country suffers...

BUT NO MATTER!

[Determination shines deeply now in his eyes. Can you feel it? He’s ready to go to war.]

We will triumph! My brothers and sisters! I will lead you all to victory.

TRUST ME!

MY BODY IS YOURS!

[Oh, hello, video.  And a very disgruntled vampire glaring at the screen.  Don't take it personally, he's just mad at everything right now.]

What the bloody hell is this?

[He means the terribly feminine friendship bracelet that's been slapped on his wrist, but, you know, everything else too.  It's not really the bracelet that's annoying him, it's just being kidnapped and ending up in this place when he had things to do.]

'Laughter and tears', what a load of bollocks. What's next, relying on the power of love to conquer all?

[He snorts.]

Like that'll do anything.

[When the video snaps on it shows Elena standing just outside the Welcome Hall of Freya. Her eyebrows are raised, but other than that she doesn't look too emotionally traumatized by the sudden relocation]

You know, I have to say, I wouldn't expect the Norse gods to be this up-to-date with technology. It's kinda impressive.

[She shakes her head, glancing back over her shoulder at the Welcome Hall, before giving the camera her best stage-smile.]

So, it looks like the theme here is either indignant rage at everything or canned introductions. I'm gonna have to go with the latter. At least, for now. I'll save the rage card until after I've had a look around.

I'm Elena Fisher. From the planet Earth, 2011 A.D. I'm apparently taking up residence in the Freya district, but I was living in Yemen as a foreign news correspondent. I look forward to getting up in everyone's business.

[She's joking about that. Mostly.]

[the video starts up to show a short-haired girl, looking curiously right at the viewer—from her perspective, she's just checking out and poking at her bracelet. after bringing her arm up and down to inspect it from different angles, she finally settles on a comfortable and more natural position.]

So, uh... I guess this thing is on now? People can see this, right?

[she waves her hand at the screen and gives a smile... before realizing that, right, she's not exactly broadcasting live. with a small chuckle, she scratches the back of her neck, then continues.]

...Right, you guys can't respond until I finish this. Whoops! Anyway, uh, the name's Chie—Chie Satonaka! If it wasn't obvious, I pretty much just got here, and I'm still kinda confused about... well, everything. The girl that brought me here didn't exactly explain much, and I kinda figured that asking other people that were brought here would be a lot more helpful in the long run. So, yeah! I'm not really picky; any tips for a newcomer like me would be awesome. Buuut I guess if I had to be specific... is there any place to get some cheap, decent food around here? I'm starving, and I could seriously go for some steak right now.

[she laughs again as she's about to go, but right before she goes to end the feed, she remembers one more thing.]

Oh, and if you've ever met or run into anybody from a place in Japan called Inaba, would you mind telling them that I'm looking for them? Thanks a bunch!

[Getting around is so annoying now. Midna basically hasn't left her own district much, trying to figure out different means of travel since flying isn't a thing anymore. Dammit Link, why couldn't you just have been in the same House? No one would mind, right?]

[In other words SHE IS BORED OUT OF HER SKULL]

[And people watching from this bench doesn't help much.]

So many people just coming out of the woodwork now, it's troublesome keeping track of all of you. I wonder if there's a list somewhere.

[At least reading material is something. And it helps her keep an eye on things.]

Hey! Mutt! Been busy playing hero again? Come here and entertain me.

[Sorry Link. She needs some way of distinguishing you from the pack and that name bothers you the most.]

[Some people have no respect for a good night's sleep.

Those up at the early hours of the morning just might be treated to a boy calling out for friends, "Reeku" or "Kairee" atop rooftops around the city. Sora's first impulse, naturally, is to search for his friends.

Sora's second impulse, between attempts to disrupt local sleeping schedules, is to explore. It's a new world, and despite the minor inconvenience of being kidnapped by Norse gods he never knew existed, he's rather optimistic about finding a way out. This is totally a temporary stopover. It always is. His travels throughout the day take him from district to district, from the Hospital, to the Arena, to Gefion Park. Luckily, his last leg of the journey takes him to the Carnival in the evening, where local ghosts are quite helpful in helping him puzzle out the functions of the bracelet(when they're not trying to scare the marbles out of him).

Sorry, Asgard. Sora's very first broadcast of the evening has a spooky start! It zooms in on the face of a gaunt, pale-faced ghoul. The ghostly image only persists until Sora's much healthier complexion squeezes into the picture beside it.]

Whooaa... it's working!

[Sora turns to the ghost, unfazed by its unearthly appearance.] And this is gonna help me find Riku and Kairi?

[An affirmative moan from the ghoul, mostly an incoherent murmur as it retreats from the foreground. Unfortunately, the ghoul hovers eerily above Sora's head, peering down at the viewer for the duration message. Only slightly unnerving.]

Well, if anybody out there's listening, I'm Sora. I'm trying to find my two friends. One's named Kairi. She's got red hair, she's about this tall and probably the friendliest person you'll ever meet. Then there's Riku! He's got messy white hair just like this guy. [Sora jerks a thumb at his ghostly friend.] Riku can be kind of grumpy sometimes, but he's a really good guy once you get to know 'em.

If you see them, let me know right away, okay?

[He very nearly finishes the message, but then he remembers! There's a burning question reserved for his housemates in Freya. Unfortunately, his attempt to send it exclusively to the Freya House ends in failure. All of Asgard is posed the question:]

// Failed Private to Freya Housemates \\

By the way... Have any of you guys tried using your powers yet?

[The feed ends with him looking a little sheepish, maybe even a little flustered.]

[ooc: Feel free to  tell that kid yelling on your rooftop at all hours of the morning to pipe down, or to run into him at the Carnival.]

[The feed snaps on to show a girl, seemingly no older than twelve, seated at a cafe in the Odin district with a cup of tea and saucer in her hands. She takes a short sip from her cup, and places it onto the saucer with a dainty click. After a small sigh, she glaces up at the recording holographic screen, her red eyes carrying depths of boredom.]

... I tire of this place. Really, having the nerve to send me here without my servants to accompany me... It's quite vexing. I much loathe to frequently make arduous treks to this cafe, all just to enjoy a cup of tea. Even the high quality of these blends makes little consolation.

[She places the teacup and saucer onto the table, the same place her bracelet sits on, and rests an elbow onto the chair's arm, her pale cheek leaning lightly against the knuckles of her hand.]

I suppose I shall introduce myself. I am Rachel. For those who enjoy injudiciously holding attention to irrelevant matters, I am the head of the Alucard family. You may address me as 'Master,' 'Your Worship,' or 'Mistress,' if you are feeling... courageous. Don't bother explaining things to me, for I am already aware of them.

[What. The little girl is surprisingly verbose... and bitchy.]

Now then, moving on to the purpose of this broadcast... I understand that my finances have failed to follow me here as well, which proves to be quite the inconvenience. However, I am not made for coarse work, therefore... You will answer my inquiry: Are there any educational establishments in this dismal city? I find it fitting for someone of my caliber to instruct, or at the very best take over as headmistress. [A small smirk appears on her lips as she lets out a chuckle.] Oh yes, the idea very delightful indeed....

[Yes, if she must earn money, she might as well find an occupation that gives her authority. Her smile quickly drops back to her usual disdainful expression.]

... Though if there aren't any schools, it certainly would explain the mindlessness of these... people... if one could refer to them as such.