shellphones | third ⚡ special delivery

Type: Video
Sender ID: ramuhs (Cid, featuring Zelda)
To: Public
Subject: Special Delivery
Warnings: None

[ Those who tune in will be greeted to seeing Cid and Zelda sitting next to each other. With a small wave, Cid will go first. ]

Well, things have been quite the mess as of late, hasn't it? Fortunately, Zelda and I have started a little venture that may be of great benefit to everyone.

[ Cid is going to let Zelda start, so he'll move the camera so that she's the focus. With the camera turned to her, Zelda offers a wave and a smile herself. ]

Last week, I acquired a potion recipe for a remedy that temporarily alleviates the "ailment" which many of us have recently become afflicted with. This remedy suppresses the negative effects of the ailment for a few days, allowing for close collaboration between people who would normally trigger an adverse reaction in one another.

[ Cid briefly pops onto the screen with a wide grin. ]

And it works!

[ He'll then grab Zelda's hand and make a show of waving it around, as if in celebration… When really it's another clue as to what this "remedy" is as their insignias are fully visible and glowing ominously. ]

Now typically, each dose of the remedy must be tailored to the individual taking it, necessitating different ingredients for different people. As you might guess, they tend to be costly. But after some careful testing and adjustments, my crew and I are able to reliably recreate the remedy without needing to adjust the recipe each time.

[ And she looks very pleased with this accomplishment. (Never mind the fact that she has to use her sealing power to enchant each dose.) ]

To help Zelda distribute these remedies, I've offered my crew's services to deliver them to specific locations for easier unloading.

[ Read: not in major ports where they would be scrutinized. ]

However, should there be any who have grown tired of the tension in the major cities and would like a bit of a "getaway," there are a few distant islands that I can recommend. Private, out of the way—perfect for those who may want to spend a few days away from it all. Perhaps even for a moonlight tryst?

[ A playful wink because yes, he's talking to you special couples who are suffering the worst of this whole stupid insignia debacle. Although not said outright, instead of just recommending, the Hideaway crew will ferry those interested for a small extra fee, information that can be discussed upon contact.

At the words "moonlight tryst," Zelda blushes. That may have been one of the methods used in testing the efficacy of different versions of the remedy. She quietly clears her throat before going on. ]

Please bear in mind this remedy has a nasty drawback that we are yet unable to mitigate: once it wears off, you will experience the delayed effects of the ailment in full all at once. The severity of the pain is directly proportional to the proximity and duration of contact with the person who would normally trigger an adverse reaction in those suffering this ailment.

[ Translation: the closer you are to someone and the longer you spend with them, the more it’s going to hurt when the potion wears off. ]

I recommend using these remedies only in moderation.

Now we only have so much supply and so many hands, so it's best if word doesn't spread too far or fast.

[ In other words, keep it on the down low, guys, they don't need enforcers from either side getting onto them. ]

But if you have any questions or concerns, you're welcome to bring them up here.

[ OOC: This is a joint network post between Cid and Zelda advertising Zelda's special potions that will help counter the effects of the insignia. Cid is partnering up to help deliver the potions in secluded areas away from watchful eyes while also offering a type of ferry service for those from different Armadas who want a safe, private place to meet up (especially couples). Both will be able to respond, but depending on the topic only one will if it's focused on their part of the operation. ]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Unfortunate, but I left even more trouble behind.

Ah, familiar words. Let's just hope that's not stubbornness I'm reading.

[LIKE HE CAN TALK. It's been, what, over a week and here he is—]

Can't fault that. Especially in these circumstances. I... also can't deny stubbornness is part of it.

[Why are they Like This.]

Edited 2025-04-19 06:40 (UTC)

Are you trying to prove yourself or just your nature?

[They just are.]

Always been this way, so I hear. But I also hear it's part of my charm.

[Put that last word in heavy air quotes.]

Why do I suspect that same "charm" is likely a cause of frustration for certain people?

[Because he's the exact same, that's why—]

Try not to worry them more.

I'm hard to kill. They know that.

[Yeah but you're still giving her grey hairs, Vakarian-]

At least it wasn't intentional, this time. That's got to count for something.

[He knows that expression very well, too. They truly are terrible.]

No, but offering yourself as a test subject is quite intentional. With the side effects being severe as they are, there's no need to put your body through more stress.

As long as I'm not walking around, I can manage. I've been back in action after worse than... what all that was.

[It's not a smart decision but he can't stand not being of use. He never has.]

Ah, but how can you help distribute if you're stuck suffering the effects of these various tests instead?

Stubborn determination and a hell of a lot of stimulants.

[RIMSHOT.]

Let's try and do without, shall we? I'm sure I can keep you busy enough that you won't have time for those tests.

Keep me busy huh? Promises promises.

Given that I am forbidden on doing much directly myself, I'll be utilizing all able bodied hands without holding back.

Of course, if I come to learn that YOU need to be resting as well, I may have to comply with your captain instead.

If I have to sit on my backside any longer, I'm going to go stir crazy. I wasn't even down this long when the rocket hit my face.

[Cid take mercy please - he won't tell if you won't.]

How injured were you?

[HE UNDERSTANDS BUT ALSO this is kind of on public record, bro.]

Oh, well, the rocket impacted my armor, but the majority of the explosion hit the side of my head. I've heard there were bits of plating all over the medical bay... But I did get these stunning scars out of it. They're very attractive to the right parties.

[Okay, he KNOWS Cid isn't asking about that. He knows that damn well. But we are playing extra EXTRA stupid just in case.]

[All right. At first Cid was staring at this incredulously because what rocket?? What in the world??? But then he realizes that this either didn't happen at all, or it did happen but not in this world. So there's a small sigh.]

A blow to the head explains quite a bit, but you'll have to show me next time.

[Well Garrus did set himself up for that one—]

Now what about your more recent injuries from the island?

[Oh. Oh yeah he did walk right into that. In his defense, no one used that line before-]

Wow. I thought we were bonding. Now I'm hurt even more.

[He is not.]

Healing. My point is, I've had worse and I'll be fine.

You know what they say, bonds made through pain are the strongest.

[Yeah that isn't a saying, but it riffs off "no pain no gain" and "love hurts" so whatever.]

But if you insist, I'm not the one who can stop you. I just don't want to be blamed for putting you in a position you shouldn't be.

[He gets nagged enough about his own involvement as it is!!!]

Springing a human saying on me? Shame. Insult to injury.

[At least it's not like when Darin tried to tell a "Dad Joke" - that absolutely didn't translate.]

Oh, I'm sure the first person Shepard and the Captain will blame will be me and my thick head.

At least leave a good word for me that I did try to stop you.

All right, if you insist - But just one. Might need the rest for myself.

Hah! Suppose that'll do.

I'll keep in touch and let you know when there's a suitable delivery available. And IF you're at least fit to walk, can use it as an excuse for exercise.

I can walk, don't worry about that.

[CAN, yes. ALLOWED? Up for debate.]

[He can read that loud and clear.]

Then we'll leave it at that and we'll see how it goes.

(no subject)

thearchangel - 2025-05-11 05:19 (UTC) - Expand