strongside | [Video]

Another world, is it?

[ The feed comes on to show a young woman's face on the screen, looking at the Gear with an idle sort of wonder. In her other hand is a common, and familiar, handbook, one which she quickly glances back to as soon as the Gear is turned on. Seems like someone is trying to make sense of all this... technical jargon. But it's somehow able to make sense. Somehow.

After several moments of silence, she snaps the handbook closed with a sigh. She brings her attention back to the Gear. ]

Is there even a point to being "the best"? [ Does it involve you going back home? ] The book doesn't mention titans, but how much is this book not telling me?

[ Skeptical? Just a bit for all that the dubiousness shows on her impassive face. ]

I need to find my friends. If anyone knows a boy named Armin-- [ Pause. No, there's too many to list. She glances down to her arm and lifts it up to show the insignia of two swords crossing over a shield. ] If anyone has seen anyone with this jacket and symbol, please inform me immediately.

As for where to go... [ She trails off. She has a journey, but no destination. And the fact that she's alo-- a small roaring sound from outside the screen lifts up her head. ]

... Right. I need to find berries, too. [ I need a distraction. ]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ If she feels any surprise, her lack of reaction hides it pretty well. She only briefly looks off to the side as she considers the possibility of being stuck here for that long. ]

There's really no way to go back? [ What a frustrating thought. ]

[Minoriko sighs. She's come to terms with her situation, but she'll keep searching for answers. As long as there's hope, there's a way.]

Not to my knowledge. There are some who have vanished and returned, saying that time had not moved in their absence, but I cannot say how they managed to return. A definitive answer continues to evade us.

If something like that has occurred to multiple people... Perhaps there is a basis for it.

[ Time stops in their world when people are here? Then perhaps Armin and the others are safe while she's gone. If only she could make sure herself, but the girl has given her some helpful information. She bows her head. ]

They may not be concrete, but they put some fears to rest. Thank you.

Indeed. I only wish I knew more about the force that brought us here.

Those who informed me of these details seemed trustworthy enough. It's only right that I pass along the information that helped me. You're welcome. My name is Minoriko Aki.

Minoriko Aki. [ Huh. That sounded much like-- ] My name is Mikasa Ackerman.

[ Is this woman an Oriental? ]

It's a pleasure to meet you, Mikasa. If you have more questions, feel free to ask. I will do my best to answer them, even if I haven't been here all that long.

Where should I go next? Many of the civilians here don't seem accommodating.

You have a choice. You can follow Route 29 by foot and continue on through this region, or I've heard that there's a ferry that could take you to another from New Bark Town.

The ferry might take more than it gives. The next town is along Route 29, then?

Yes. Cherrygrove City. It's a rather pleasant place.

Are there supplies?

[ She's looking off to the side as she asks this. She's worried about the Pokemon partnered with her not being adequately taken care of due to her inexperience. ]

[Minoriko nods.]

Of course. There are also some edible plants along the routes. Someone referred me to a most informative guide.

Could you pass that along as well? My partner might need to feed soon.

I can certainly try. It might take a few minutes. I'm not all that accustomed to technology.

[But she manages somehow, and Mikasa will receive the file about 10 minutes later or so.]

Guide.attachment

Did it work?

[ Mikasa is patient in waiting for the information to come. She's not at all used to this world's technology, too. As she waits, her Axew climbs onto her lap and tries to make himself comfortable. During the wait, she closes her eyes and nuzzles her nose behind her red scarf in an attempt to calm herself down take it all in at a better pace. Once she hears the beep, she looks at her Gear, fiddles and checks with the Gear, and...

She nods, skimming through the guide for points of interest. ]

I did. Thank you. This is a lot more extensive than the guide.

Splendid.

Yes, I thought so as well. It's been quite useful.

[ Nods before she gently nudges her Axew off and stands. ]

I should get moving. I appreciate the help, Minoriko.

You are most welcome. Do take care.

[ She gives a brief nod before turning off the feed. Getting the hang of this now! ]