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Please do not post unless you are FrankandBeans or Urux :) |
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Name Cain "Canine" "K9" Meyers Age 23 Gender Male Sexuality Open and undefined. Occupation Street racer / brawler Appearance Cain has a very iconic silhouette. He stands at 6'5" with a muscular tone many are envious of. His shoulders are significantly broader than his waist, forming an almost triangular shape to his torso. Cain's hair is inky black, a spiked mess on his head. The front portion hangs slightly in front of his face, the back longer it falls to just below his neckline. His eyes are angular and tilt up slightly at the outer corners, within the sockets are extremely pale yellow with a red ring around the outer circle. His skin is a paler hue, dotted with small tattoos between his enhancements. Just below his right eye on the temple side in black font is "K9". Seeping up his neck is black tendrils of ink from his larger chest and sleeve pieces that are normally hidden beneath clothing. Cain's arms and upper portion of chest, curving above his collar bones to leave the skin below bare, is a flowing piece of art. The main feature being doberman that enter from his shoulders and face into his chest, snarling, teeth bared. The rest consists of mostly black out tattoo with it fading seemlessly into his natural skin at the wrists. Hey, he has to live up to his name. On his knuckles are the words "BITE" and "BARK" with each letter on its own finger. Cutting off the tattoo on both hands, is bandaged wraps that start below his wrist and run down his fingers, more often than not they're dirty and bloodied. The tendrils that reach up his neck are stippled and fade out into his skin just beneath his jaw. Tattoos in this world are easy to get and easy to remove, these are the ones he has had the longest. In short, his stature is comparable to a greek god. Does he act godly? Absolutely not. His voice is deep with a hint of gravel and growl to his words, likely from his copious smoking habits. However, he does plan to snatch a nice shiny new pair of lungs soon. Cyberware / Enhancements > Chitinous Plates; On his elbows and knees are hardened plates installed beneath his skin to protect the joints from damage during potention crashes when riding a motorcycle. That was the intended use, but they're also very helpful when in street fights. In these areas, there is a small silver metal line running around the outline of the plates on Cain's skin. Because this piece does not have a mechanical component, there is no monthly fee. > Optics; Cain's eyes are completely replaced with cyberware. Currently installed, are a pair of analytical optics. They show Cain various components fo his surroundings, most helpful being image (current vision) enhancement and anti-dazzling where it protects his eyes from being blinded by the bright lights of the city and other vehicles when going break-neck speeds. His pupils can dialate on command to focus, just for added fun he made the pupil's slitted. They require a monthly fee - if not paid, he will lose vision. > Reinforced lower legs; providing Cain with intense power in his calves, he can smack his shin through a steel bar and feel nothing. Installed with shock absorbers and blood-compressed pumps, he can unleash a lightening fast strike with his legs. They require a monthly fee - if not paid, his calves cannot tense muscle and so he cannot walk. > Sharpened teeth; purely for fun Cain had two of his teeth on either side of his incisors sharpened. Mostly to look more intimidating to his opponents in street fights, but women seem to like it too. Personality Loud | Confident | Bark and Bite | Sly | Cocky | Flippant | Independent | Rebellious | Resourceful | Self-sufficient | Unpredictable Background Cain didn't exactly have a stable home life as a child. His older sister was never home, working in red light district of the city, his mother out of the picture and his father a useless addict. With little money to push the children through life, they wore scrappy clothing, had no food and most obviously no enhancements. Cain's sister, Claudia, amended this problem herself by taking up her job. Cain was too young, nobody would give him a second of their time. By the time he was 15, his father was out of the picture, Claudia was paying for his schooling and could barely manage it. But still, the lack of enhancements drew attention, classmates had their first communications chip while he had a shoddy old phone. He was picked on and mocked, eventually after suffering their cruelty for long enough, Cain bit back. He sunk his fist into his classmate's jaw, spinning his head. That was when he realised he could do something to help his sister. Cain began seeking out underground fights, taking on whoever he could. In the early days, he would come home with black eyes and gashes on his forehead, but as his teenage years went by he only improved. By the time he was 20, he could fight anyone without an issue. Of course, he would always put on a show. Once he had made enough money, a few members of the crowd were chattering nearby about a race night. A lightbulb went off in his head, he could do that no problem. And so began another few years of failure, various wrecked rusty cars and bikes. Now he was 23, he was beginning to hold his own in these races. By no means was he the best, but he was certainly the biggest showman. ______________________________________________________________ Name Delphine De Rosier Age 24 Gender Female Sexuality Bisexual Occupation Cybernetics researcher and intern at "Elysium Core" a well established, long-running advanced cyberware company priding itself on innovation and advancement. Appearance Delphine in her casual attire is certainly an eye catcher, standing at 5'5" with pale skin, her hair is dyed a muted navy blue. Falling to a V between her shoulder blades, heavily layered with a chopping bang cut into the front pieces. Its texture somewhere between a fluffy mess and waves. Matching her pale blue eyes that are rimmed by thick black lashes. Her ears sport a wide variety of silver piercings that are usually swapped out to subtle studs for work. The one piercing that she does not remove is her dimple studs on either side of her mouth. As for her figure, she's more or less pear shaped, curved hips and thighs being her main feature. On her top half, her shoulders are narrowed into a slim neck. When out of work, she is usually adorned in a baby pink coloured clothing, layered with black and silver accents. Her neck usually collared by some form of spiked necklace or well a collar. Delphine does have to work eventually. When she does, her hair is pulled back into a slicked back haphazard low bun, make up toned down and clothes black corporate. Cyberware / Enhancements Being a newer employee to the company, she is yet to be offered company funded implants apart from the standards, however she does fund some herself. > Neural Interface; Given to her upon the commencement of her first week at Elysium. Enabling her to connect to the companies interfaces and technology without a second thought. Mostly used for delving into the code of new prototyped cyberware than anything else, though it does give her clearance to certain company secrets. > Ceramic jointed hands; In her studies to become a cyberware creator, Delphine needed to be able to write code quickly without tiring her hands. So, as a graduation gift, her parents fitted her with new shiny hands. Under her skin are ceramic bones and joints, running up to her radius and ulna, her bones and muscles in her hands are completely synthetic. They require a monthly fee that currently her parents pay for her. Personality Excitable | Adrenaline-Junkie | Feral | Dual-Sided | Sophisticated | Intelligent | Daring | Spoiled | Kind | Curious Background Delphine comes from a long-line of French cybertech families, they moved to chase after the increasing opportunities abroad. Her parents are successful researchers at Elysium Core, yet she barely sees them anymore because they work opposing hours. In her childhood, she was spoiled with belongings and all the newest non-installed technology. Her parents, understanding the craving that a cyberware installment can bring upon somone, did not want her to get sucked into an addiction of cyber enhancements. Instead, they waited until the graduated highschool where they gifted her with her new hands. To which she was elated. Whilst she may have been picked on for her lack of enhancement, her family name and powerful social position meant that it didn't last very long. Instead, she was a popular young girl, focused on her studied at a prestigeous private school to get into her desired university and eventually follow in her parents footsteps to Elysium Core. While she is content, she feels a pull for something more. Anytime she creates an updated version prototype or totally new idea, she is shut down, ignored. Running around at the CEO's and superior's will is draining and now what she envisioned. Instead she craved more. More what? 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Name: Hazel "Haze" Briar Age: 26 Gender: Female Sexuality: Fluid, favors personality Occupation: General Manager of "Valkyrie Dynamics," a leading cybernetics and tech company. Appearance: Hazel stands at 5'10" with a curvy, athletic build that combines elegance and strength. Her figure is both feminine and powerful, with soft curves that accentuate her confidence and presence. She has a striking head of rusty, strawberry blonde hair, cascading in loose, natural waves down to her shoulders. Her hair has a slight, effortless tousle, giving her a look that is both polished and free-spirited. Her eyes are a deep, dark green, filled with intensity and intelligence, capable of a piercing, analytical gaze. These eyes can shift from being warm and inviting to cold and calculating, revealing her ability to navigate the corporate world with both grace and steel. Hazel's skin is fair with a warm undertone, and she has a few faint freckles scattered across her nose and cheeks, adding a touch of natural charm. Her style blends practicality with subtle luxury, often choosing tailored, fitted clothing that highlights her curves while maintaining a sense of authority. She favors earth tones, such as deep greens, browns, and rusts, which complement her natural appearance and set her apart in the high-tech, neon-lit world of the city. She often wears a signature piece of jewelry, earrings shaped like delicate vines, emphasizing her connection to nature. Despite her corporate success, Hazel retains a sense of groundedness and authenticity that comes through in her fashion choices and demeanor. Cyberware / Enhancements: -
Neural Interface: Allows Morgana to connect to any network, device, or AI with a thought. This enhancement gives her a strategic advantage in negotiations and the ability to gather information in real-time. It requires a monthly fee for maintenance and updates. -
Vocal Modulator: Morgana can subtly alter her voice's tone, pitch, and timbre to persuade, intimidate, or distract, depending on the situation. This implant is hidden and does not require a fee, as it is a more permanent, internal modification. -
Holo-Display Contacts: These allow Morgana to access data, communicate, and manage her business affairs directly in her line of sight. They can project holographic displays visible only to her, a feature that helps in both private and public dealings which requires a part-monthly fee that is shared as a business expense. - Bio-Stabilizer: To keep up with the demands of her high-powered lifestyle, Hazel uses a bio-stabilizer implant that helps regulate her physical health, reducing fatigue and enhancing her immune system. - Requires a hefty monthly fee
Personality: Hazel is sharp, confident, and charismatic, with a natural ability to lead and inspire others. She combines empathy with decisiveness, making her a respected figure in the corporate world. Her sharp wit and playful, sometimes snarky sense of humor can be disarming, and she thrives on taking risks and challenging the status quo. However, Hazel's drive for power and order often spills into her personal life, leading to conflicts and strained relationships. Her relentless ambition and high standards have led to several behavioral meetings in the workplace, as her employees sometimes find her demands too intense or unyielding. Hazel's personal life is rather bland, dominated by her work to the point where the line between her professional and personal worlds has all but disappeared. She has no "off switch" when it comes to her career, constantly finding herself thinking about work, even in her downtime. This lack of separation leads her to bring the same level of intensity and control into her personal interactions, often leaving her feeling isolated and disconnected. Despite her success, Hazel struggles with finding balance, realizing that her pursuit of order and power in the chaotic cyberpunk world may be driving her further from the harmony she once valued. Background: Hazel was raised by parents who were part of the hippie movement, deeply committed to peace, environmentalism, and a simple, communal lifestyle. They were passionate about social justice, anti-corporate ideals, and living off the land. Hazel, however, felt drawn to the structure and possibilities of the corporate world, believing that positive change could be made from within the system. While Hazel respects her parents' values and the principles they stood for, she has chosen a different path. She carries their teachings on sustainability and ethical practices into her role as CEO of Valkyrie Dynamics. However, as she rises in the corporate world and becomes more immersed in the materialistic, high-powered lifestyle of a cyberpunk CEO, Hazel finds herself unknowingly straying further from her roots. The allure of power, wealth, and the latest technology begins to blur the lines of her ethical boundaries, creating an internal conflict between the person she was raised to be and the person she is becoming. Despite this, Hazel keeps a respectful distance from her parents' lifestyle, occasionally visiting and engaging in philosophical discussions, as a way to remind herself of where she came from, even as she continues to navigate the complex world of high-stakes corporate intrigue. Her rise to professional success was not a result of grit and hard work, she was lucky to nag an entry-level internship and develop strong social connections which pushed her way up the ladder effortlessly. Potential Dynamics with Cain: Hazel could see Cain as both a useful asset and a thrilling challenge. His raw, rebellious nature would be a stark contrast to her calculated demeanor, potentially leading to a clash of wills or a dangerous alliance.
Name: Elias "Eli" Kade Age: 24 Gender: Male Sexuality: Pansexual Occupation: Freelance Data Courier / Hacker Appearance: Eli stands at 5'11" with a lean, slightly athletic build. His posture often seems guarded, shoulders slightly hunched, as if he's trying to make himself smaller and less noticeable. His hair is a tousled mess of dark brown, almost black, that falls into his eyes, often obscuring his view. He rarely bothers to keep it neat, adding to his somewhat disheveled appearance. Eli’s eyes are a strikingly bright blue, filled with a deep well of emotion and intensity, making them his most memorable feature. They hold a certain sadness, a hint of vulnerability that betrays the turmoil beneath his surface. His skin is pale, with a few faint scars hinting at a past of both physical and emotional battles. He tends to wear practical, nondescript clothing—hoodies, cargo pants, and jackets that help him blend into the shadows of the sprawling cityscape. His preference for darker colors further helps him remain unseen in a world that often feels too overwhelming. Cyberware / Enhancements: -
Neural Interface: Eli has a basic neural interface that allows him to connect to the digital world directly. It's outdated but reliable, a testament to his reluctance to fully immerse himself in the rapidly advancing technological landscape. This implant is essential for his work as a hacker, giving him access to networks and data that are otherwise off-limits with a difficult monthly fee, often taking upwards of half his paycheck. -
Subdermal Comms: A small communication device implanted behind his ear, enabling discreet communication with a monthly fee. It allows him to stay connected to the underground network of information brokers and other freelancers, although the constant chatter adds to his anxiety. -
Bio-Monitoring Implant: A simple implant that monitors his vital signs and emotional state. This was originally installed to help manage his anxiety and depression, alerting him when he needs to take a break or use medication. Despite its intent, Eli often ignores the alerts, pushing himself past his limits. Personality: Eli is sensitive, introspective, and deeply empathetic. He feels emotions intensely, which often leads him to be overwhelmed by the fast-paced, high-stakes nature of the cyberpunk world. He is intelligent and resourceful, with a natural talent for hacking and data manipulation, but his emotional turmoil frequently clouds his judgment. Eli has a tendency to retreat into himself, avoiding close relationships for fear of getting hurt or letting others down. He is a loner by nature, struggling to find his place in a world that seems to have moved on without him. Despite his emotional struggles, Eli has a strong sense of justice and often takes on jobs that align with his moral compass, helping those who have been wronged by the system. He is compassionate and kind, traits that can make him vulnerable in a cutthroat world. Eli’s biggest challenge is learning to trust himself and others, and finding a sense of purpose that gives him the stability and direction he craves. Background: Eli grew up in a world that was rapidly changing, with technology advancing faster than society could adapt. His parents were simple people, caught off guard by the new age of cybernetic enhancements and digital integration. They struggled to provide Eli with the support he needed, leading him to find solace in the digital world. As a teenager, he discovered his talent for hacking, finding it both a means of escape and a way to exert control over his chaotic surroundings. After his parents passed away, Eli found himself adrift, with no clear direction or purpose. He turned to freelance work, using his skills to survive in a world that felt increasingly alien and hostile. Despite his abilities, Eli remains unsure of his place in the new order, feeling more like a ghost haunting the fringes of society than a participant. He longs for connection and meaning but is unsure where to find it in a world that seems to value only power and profit. Eli and Hazel Dynamics: Eli and Hazel have a complex and often contradictory friendship. On the surface, they appear to be opposites—Hazel is confident, powerful, and ambitious, while Eli is introspective, uncertain, and lost. Despite these differences, they find a strange kind of solace in each other’s company. Hazel is drawn to Eli’s vulnerability and emotional depth, qualities she feels she has suppressed in herself. She sees in Eli a reminder of the person she once was or could have been, unburdened by the corporate ambitions that now drive her. Hazel often finds herself protective of Eli, wanting to shield him from the harsh realities of the cyberpunk world, yet also frustrated by his hesitance to assert himself. Eli, on the other hand, is both intimidated and fascinated by Hazel. He is aware of the vast power and influence she wields and often feels inadequate in her presence. However, he also senses the cracks in her façade—the moments of doubt and conflict that she tries to hide. Eli respects Hazel's intelligence and capability but worries about the cost of her ambition. He often finds himself being a quiet observer of Hazel’s world, offering her insights that come from his own struggles and perspective. Their interactions are a blend of admiration and tension, as Eli struggles to understand Hazel’s choices, and Hazel grapples with her own inner conflicts that Eli's presence brings to the surface. Despite their differences, there is an underlying current of mutual understanding and a shared sense of being outsiders in a world that neither fully belongs. Possible Eli & Cain Dynamics: Eli can't help but be intrigued by Cain. There's an undeniable allure to Cain’s confidence and the raw, unapologetic way he moves through the world. Eli finds himself both repelled and drawn to this boldness, wondering what drives a person to live with such reckless abandon. While Eli’s instinct is to keep his distance, he senses there might be more to Cain than the tough exterior he projects. This sense of mystery compels Eli to observe Cain more closely, trying to understand what makes him tick. |
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Hazel Mondays were already the bane of Hazel's existence, uncompleted tasks from the previous week rolling over, droning meetings with people who lacked basic problem-solving skills so why the hell would they schedule this open day on a Monday? she thought to herself as she neared the large grey building. Her mind raced, full of deadlines and bugs that took the majority of her attention, if it were her choice they wouldn't offer an open day, but alas marketing and the abysmal human resources team badgered on and she gave in. She sighed through tensed teeth as she threw the large, glass door open and powered through the foyer. Every wall was plastered with holographic data and achievements of the company, upcoming projects, and faces of the employees all beaming and full of excitement. She stifled a scoff as she continued to the right, quickening her step as she climbed the curving steel staircase to the top of the loft-style building. From there she had a good overview of the foyer, a quiet drone of voices below became background noise as she mumbled something under her breath- "late again?" as she scanned the area for Torres- the human resources director. Ironic that he was always the one who showed up late to work. Once the large neon green clock above the entrance doors ticked over 10am she stepped forward and placed her hands on the steel railing. "Welcome to Valkyrie Dynamics" her voice boomed throughout the wall as she placed her index finger against her neck, activating a part of her vocal modulator. "Here, we don’t just create technology; we redefine what's possible" she continued, her voice calm and controlled "Each year we invite 2 promising visionaries to learn under our name, if you have been invited today you possess the unique abilities we are looking for to fill these roles" she paused momentarily as her eyes scanned the bodies below her, her gaze avoiding the live projection of her speech below for better viewing. Hazel adjusted her posture, rolling her shoulders back as she spoke "Myself and my esteemed employees are excited to meet with you, but we will only be inviting those with the upmost talent to stay behind for the first interview process. If you are not selected we encourage you to apply again next year" She smiled confidently, her exaggerated warm demeanor intended to draw attention. Eli Eli fit into the crowd of young, rosy-faced interns well. With his plain looks and a demeanor that screamed 'average,' he moved like a ghost among the eager faces. The building was not new to him, but he liked to keep his business affairs private, even from the many employees bustling around the high-tech office. Today, however, he was here on official business—Hazel's business. He had been hired by her to observe the new batch of interns, a task that seemed almost beneath him, given the technology at Hazel’s disposal. But Eli knew better than to question her motives. He knew she was meticulous, every action had a purpose, every move was calculated. Perhaps she wanted an unbiased, human perspective, or maybe she was testing him. After all, he had mentioned to her recently that he was struggling. Maybe this was her way of offering a lifeline, a pity paycheck to keep him going? Eli slipped through the crowd, his eyes scanning faces and jotting down mental notes. He was good at this—watching, listening, remaining unseen. He knew which interns were nervous, which ones were confident, and which ones had no chance at all. His notes weren't for him, though; they were for Hazel. She stood above them all, her steel gaze surveying the room with the calm authority he had come to associate with her. He wondered what she saw in these interns. Did she see potential allies, or just pawns to be maneuvered in her game? Eli’s own gaze flicked up to where Hazel stood, her voice amplified by the vocal modulator. He couldn't help but feel a pang of envy. She was powerful, confident, and in control which was everything he wasn't. Yet, despite their differences, their paths kept crossing. But for now Eli was content to remain in the background, gathering information, keeping secrets, and trying to find his place in this fast paced world. |
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Delphine A towering shadow loomed over her, the tall building menacing in its architecture. Delphine stood beneath it like an ant, miniscule in comparison. The previous night she had made up some lie about a medical appointment to check on her neural interface, ensuring it was melding correctly with her biology. Planting the appointment too late in the day to justify going into work, the hours either side of the appointment were too little and insignificant. Perfect. Her parents were unaware of her current location and the reason she was there, it felt like a betrayal. Not just to her parents, but to her current interned company. She had served them for a year, only to receive an invite to this event at their competitor. Perhaps it was simply a poaching of future employees, she didn't care. Dressed more formally than she would prefer, Delphine began her walk into the doors, just before 10am. Her eyes scanning the room, the high ceilings forboding. In her hand she carried a small tablet, to take notes and contacts down if she so required. Her attrire was mostly black, a pantsuit with small pinstripes on the trousers. Her hair was left down in its natural state, trying to disconnect herself from any other Elysium affiliates that may recognise her. Lining her eyes were a heavier than professional cat eye with a strike of black turning back towards her eyelid from the tip. Subdued still from her casual preference. The air was rich with new graduates, she felt a little old in the crowd actually. Everyone here seemed to be fresh from their schooling, Delphine simply hoped that she wouldn't stick out too much. Her curiosity brought her here more than anything else, the possibility that Valkyrie Dynamics could offer her that something more that she had been craving this past year. The sudden telegraphs voice shot out from overhead, the abruptness making the young woman jolt a little. Her eyes moving to one of the holographed screen, depicting the woman speaking. Hazel Briar. A big name at Valkyrie, only a step or so below the top dog. Delphine listened attentively, her eyes honed in sqaurely on the projection. God, she was a powerful woman. Beside her, she could sense other potential interns excitement. Some, a little too excited. That would not get them far in this environment, and she knew that from personal experience. As she listened, her free hand settled beside her hip, the segmented sections of her fingers popping as she twitched the tendons. The slitted silver knuckles making a soft metallic clink - not that it would be heard above Hazel's booming voice. Cain Cain lay on his bed, a total mess, clothes dishevelled and his head ringing. He had taken a nasty hit to the temple and it still pounded in his ears. His pale eyes stared up at the ceiling, replaying the events of last night's fight. It was against some brute, he was huge, far larger than Cain. It was almost biologically impossible to be that big. Cruel to his opponents to have such a drastic size ratio. If only Cain had slipped that last blow, he would have been able to get in his winning shot. Grumbling, the man turned onto his side and slipped off the edge of his bed. The apartment was tiny. Barely enough room to sleep and eat in. Slotted into the wall was his bed, three sides of it blocked off by the apartment's walls. Directly beside this hole in the wall, was a small seating area, metal stools lined up on the opposite side of a kitchen bench. He crawled his way onto one of the stools and reached across into the small kitchen to grab an energy drink he had tossed there the previous night. Cracking it open, the satisfying fizz greeting his ears. Cain tipped his head back and downed half the can before setting it down on the counter top. He was bruised and beaten. On top of that, he had a race tonight. Lowering his forehead onto the cold metal counter, he could almost groan at the cooling sensation that zapped across his skin. He sat like that for a long while, until the metal had warmed up to his temperature and couldn't bring him the relief he sought any longer. |
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Hazel Not one for drawn-out speeches, Hazel gestured to a sleek holographic screen that flickered to life on her right. "We have four interactive department demonstrations today. Group 1 will start in Engineering and finish in Communications. If you don't see your name listed, we’ve already decided you won’t be a great fit, but we thank you for your attendance." Her voice carried a sharp edge, softened only by the seemingly innocent smirk spreading across her face. As she stepped back from the railing, her projected image faded from view, and the murmur of voices below rose in volume. Disappointment hung in the air as about twenty individuals turned to leave, their hopes dashed. Hazel’s ruthlessness was part of what made her a formidable leader. She didn't need sixty applicants for two positions; the excess was simply a tactic to inflate the perceived value of the openings and to instill a sense of competition. With a practiced motion, she shed her suit jacket, tossing it casually over the back of her chair as she moved towards the staircase. Her black pencil skirt hugged her curves as she descended, each step marked by the click of her heels. Hazel’s eyes swept over the remaining applicants, assessing them with a quick, critical glance. Her gaze caught Eli’s, and she acknowledged him with a brief nod and a faint smile before veering off through a door labeled "Augmentation Specialties"—her sanctuary away from the corporate grind. This was where the real talent was revealed, the place where innovation was born, and pretenders were exposed. Group 2 would soon file in, and Hazel was ready to see who among them had the insight and skill to impress her, or in the very least entertain her. Elias Eli wasn’t surprised that Hazel had turned away so many applicants outright. It was almost as if she took a certain pleasure in diminishing hopes. He knew that feeling all too well from his own experiences with her. As he observed the scene, his gaze drifted to the groups. He was already aware that he would be assigned to Group 2, thanks to the detailed plans Hazel had sent him the night before. His eyes briefly caught sight of Delphine, who was standing slightly apart from the other interns. Her formal attire and precise demeanor marked her as someone who didn’t quite fit the typical intern mold. Eli thought he may have recognized her from past interactions in different circles, although he couldn't be sure yet. Eli noted her presence and made a mental note to observe her closely, he was curious about her background if he had seen her around in the passed. As Hazel descended the staircase, Eli used the opportunity to pull up his notes on his phone. He quickly sent them to Hazel, including observations on the familiar faces he had noted—past clients or mutual acquaintances. Nothing seemed particularly unusual or concerning at first glance. As he pocketed his device, he and Hazel briefly made eye contact. Eli offered a polite nod of acknowledgment before shifting his gaze elsewhere. He then turned his attention to the room ahead. The sterile smell and the constant hum of machinery greeted him as he approached the door. Unlike Hazel, Eli found the environment less than appealing. He preferred the quiet, isolated corners of the security department, where he could avoid the chaos and maintain his own space. The clinical atmosphere was a stark contrast to the more relaxed settings he was accustomed to, but he braced himself for the task at hand. |
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Delphine The concise nature of the speech pleased her, not a woman to mess around clearly. As she expected from a woman who managed to climb the corporate ladder so quickly. Her eyes flickered over towards the screens that blazed names for each department. Scanning quickly, she was rostered for a few stations. Communications not being one of them, enough said there. Her hand dropped, the clicking of her fingers subsiding along with it. Group 2. She turned to glance over her shoulder, many of these fresh faced graduates were filing out of the room. At least the environment would become a little quieter, the chatter was irritating if she were honest. Letting her feet carry her towards the door she was assigned to first, she gently tapped on her tablet. Noting her schedules locations and what she was actually invited here for. She wasn't pleased her name was up there for everyone to see. Delphine's parents were known engineers at Elysium, she could only hope that no one took much notice. Reaching the door, she pushed down the button on the tablet to turn the screen off, focusing her eyes on what lay ahead. Hazel had come through this door after she finished her speech, Delphine had caught a glimpse of her descending the stairs before vanishing into this department. It would be thrilling to see the inner working of this company and how it compared to Elysium. Perhaps even a few ideas she could bring home. A small smile graced her lips, not one of joy but something a little more devious in nature as she walked further into the room. A few others walked with her into their room, clearly all Group 2. Her eyes flitted over them, the standard sparky, bright eyed youth she expected. Only one was a little different. Not strikingly obvious, but just different. He kept his head lowered, dressed more drab than those around him. Delphine's eyes narrowed as she analysed him for a second too long, she ripped her attention away. No need to stare down others, useless really. She wasn't here for them. |
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Hazel Hazel waited for the last group member to enter before gesturing toward the various computers and projectors "This is the heart of our operation" she grinned "This is where clients are fitted for new technology after it has had the tick of approval from our engineers and ethics team. This is my favorite department, everything can go by the book until you apply it to a client, this is where a lot of our advancements stem from" she spoke fluidly. "We won't be sharing any upcoming projects today, but we would like to offer you a more immersive experience so my coworker here- Daisy will walk you through her day-to-day work, and give you a demonstration on one of our AI models." She stepped aside and gestured to a young woman with bright pink hair to take the stage. Hazel leaned back against the wall, her steel gaze unaltering as she eyed each group member individually. Her eyes lingered on a young woman with a distinct aura of self-assurance and professionalism. Hazel exchanged a subtle, knowing glance with Eli, who stood near the woman. She recognized Delphine, the daughter of well-known competitor engineers, and was confident that this was the same woman she had researched. Hazel’s gaze shifted back to the demonstration as she tapped her temples to bring up her notes. Her eyes flicked through the applicants once more, confirming her suspicions. A satisfied grin spread across Hazel’s face as she dismissed the document and crossed her arms over her chest. She was curious to see if this woman possessed the technical abilities that she had heard of in her social circle. Eli Eli stood slightly behind Delphine, settling at the back of the group. He could tell by the undeniably cocky look on his friend's face that she recognized the woman he had suspicions about. He rubbed his temples anxiously as shifted his weight from one foot to the other. The humming, sterile smell and constant muttering from the group bothered him. His wrist vibrated twice, signaling that his heart rate was increased but now wasn't the time. He took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, and focused his attention in on Daisy's demonstration. Silently hoping that his friend would dismiss him from this social torture before the interactive portion of the demo began but it wasn't looking likely. Group work was bad enough, relying on other people wasn't the way he did things but pair work was even worse. And he knew that soon they would be asked to break off into pairs to work on their own model, both for fun and as a way for them to demonstrate their talents to Hazel and her team. |
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Darkseeker
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Delphine Attentively, Delphine observed the introduction, rather cookie cutter in nature. The same sort of thing was spieled out to her on her initial course of classes at Elysium. This Daisy was certainly capturing the room, if not for the subject of her discussion but for her almost neon hair. It was almost difficult to look at under the bright sterile lighting. This application of tech wasn't exactly her favourite, but she could do it with finesse. Entertaining herself at home with models similar to these that her parents would bring home for her to practice on. Simple at first, adding chips or cosmetic adjustments. Now she could perfectly align an optic with the existing nerves of the human, slide in complicated joints, she had plenty of experience, but little enthusiasum on the subject. She wanted to design the damn things, not install them. As Daisy began to explain the pairing and the task at hand, she took to clicking the knuckles of her left hand again. The people around her did not peak her interest much. Well...Delphine glanced over her shoulder, doing little to hide what or rather who she was staring at. The man behind her that she had clocked when they entered the room. At least he wasn't some starry eyed fresher. A brief intermission in her clicking hand. "Care to be my partner? The rest of these guys are a little young for me." Delphine cocked her head, twisting her body to face him. He wasn't looking at her, but she could see slightly under his hair from her lower angle. Her smile was teasing, but genuinely she prayed he would say yes, the rest of the group were almost certainly going to irritate her. With her free hand, she gestured towards one of the models set up for them. "Do you have experience installing?" Delphine questioned him, taking a delicate step towards the model table. It wasn't an overly complicated task at all, but she did not want to embarrass anyone by assuming. That and Delphine was keenly aware of Hazel's eyes boring into the back of her skull. Was it her voice, her appearance or something else that had gained her attention? She wasn't quite sure, but whatever it was, she hoped it wasn't some sort of jealous ploy to invite her here. |
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Neutral
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Eli Eli felt his cheeks burn, the heat spreading to the tips of his ears. It was rare for anyone to seek him out, his mind scrambled for something to say, to keep up the pretense that he belonged here as much as anyone else. "Part-" Eli started, catching himself as his voice cracked slightly. He cleared his throat, trying to muster the casual tone that usually came so easily when he was just another face in the crowd. "Yeah, sure." He managed a chuckle, sounding anything but casual. "Uh-um, I’ve installed, but it’s not my strong point,” he admitted, his words tripping over themselves. As they walked towards the model, he kept his eyes down, focusing on the floor instead of the calculating gaze he could feel from Delphine. The last thing he wanted was to let on how nervous he felt. He tried to steady his hands, he wasn't sure why he felt so out of place, he had been in this room countless times. But something about Delphine's presence, her assuredness, made him acutely aware of his own insecurities. “So, uh, what brings you here?” Eli asked, trying to steer the conversation away from himself. “You seem to know your way around this stuff already.” He glanced at her briefly, hoping to catch a hint of her intentions without staring too long. His fingers fumbled slightly as he began to work on the model, a stark contrast to Delphine's practiced movements. Hazel Hazel paid little attention as everyone paired up, she was more interested in who could actually work under pressure. She cast her gaze toward Eli, cocking her head at his choice of partner. Maybe this will be easier than I thought? she thought as she scanned through virtual documents, nothing of interest standing out to her. Once she noticed everyone settling into the models she peeled herself off the walk and slowly walked from station to station. As she approached Eli and Delphine, her steps slowed, her gaze narrowing slightly. She didn't need to look directly at them to sense the tension, to catch the awkwardness in Eli's movements and the confident ease with which Delphine handled the equipment. Hazel's lips curled into a faint smile, a knowing expression that didn't reach her eyes. Interesting choice, Eli, she mused internally. Hazel had a habit of placing people where they didn't quite fit, seeing how they would adapt or if they would break. Watching Eli stumble through the interaction with Delphine was like watching a piece fall into place. She could see the potential for leverage, the way Delphine's cool confidence could either bolster Eli's abilities or crush him under its weight. "How's it going over here? Any issues?" she spoke with an underlying snarky tone. It was a standard question, one she asked at every station, but with Eli, there was an undercurrent of challenge. Hazel wanted to see if he could handle it, if he could maintain composure under scrutiny. It was a test, one he might not even realize he was taking. Hazel turned her attention to Delphine, her smile widening. "You seem to have a steady hand," she remarked, nodding towards the model. "Where did you learn to do that?" Her questions were innocent enough, but Hazel's mind was always turning, calculating the angles. She wanted to see how Delphine would respond, how much she would reveal, and what that might mean for Valkyrie Dynamics. Hazel thrived in this environment, where every interaction was a game, and every player had a part to play. |
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Winter 
Night 
