Hopeless Media is happy to announce its second official project, HXM: The Audio Drama!
If you are unfamiliar with our work, the video linked will take you to our most recent episode of The Terra Arcanum Chronicles!
HXM is aimed to be an anime styled show, in audio form, from voice acting, to special (sound) effects, and themes.
HXM, or Harbinger X Machina (We say the X), follows two men, Nero –a hot-headed hunter with an affinity for fire magic, long swords, and a big appetite–and Finn –the level-headed adventurer with a proclivity towards ice magic, frugal spending, and getting dragged into trouble– looking to form their very own adventurers guild. After racking up the necessary funds, they are heartbroken to learn they are missing the necessary commendations to earn an official license. Along the way, Nero and Finn meet a band of unlikely allies that join them in their efforts to stop a sinister plot involving man controlled monsters, political assassinations, and the dealings of one Demon.
The first season is currently being written, with the first half nearing completion at the time of posting this, meaning work for all listed roles can start immediately after casting.
IMPORTANT:
Hopeless Media is looking for a certain level of quality with its audio shows. Please be sure to have a clean environment and sound before auditioning. Auditions with poor quality, (poor mic, echoes, background noise) will not be considered at this time. Please read all of the information within each Role. It is highly preferred you offer a minimum of 3 takes per line (even after being cast) to offer a variety of styles and choices.
NOTE: The Hopeless Media Team will handle any alterations to in regards to pitch shifting, and other modulations, please do not pitch shift or alter your sound in anyway beyond cleanup. Using Gates and fixing EQ to make your audio sound cleaner is totally permitted and encouraged if necessary!
If you have managed to read through all of this before auditioning, thank you. Please slate your preferred name (for credits purposes, first and last if applicable) in the details of your audition.
The first round has concluded, and the following roles have closed:
Kelsie
Maritae
Braxton
Akuma
Narrator B
Cors
Chulley
Davenport
Auric
Calerin
Thank you to everyone who auditioned! There are still plenty of roles available!
Good luck to everyone still in the running!
Hello! This weekend we will be going through and casting our first wave of roles! The deadline for the remaining roles will be pushed again once casting has completed to prevent any addition auditions for closing roles.
Thank you!
As the final scripts for the first half of the season are finishing up, we are adding a few more important roles to the listing! So check them out if you haven't yet!
For more updates in casting opportunities, and production updates, consider joining the discord!
Adewale (Add-Eh-Wall-Aye) is a main member of the party and a permanent cast member.
Adewale is next in line to be protector of his island, utilizing the magical properties bestowed onto him by the Manufuga Flower, he stands ready to protect. He is a stoic warrior, who is still breaking out if his shell.
Adewale is an enhanced human from the island of Gunbir, (Gun-Beer) with an accent aiming to be something along the lines of a Nigerian / Islander Somoan mixture
Voice Profile: Deeper, Silky rich, Nigerian/Samoan
Bonus Fourth line:
"So you find yourself face to face with me? How very unlucky for you… Haaaaa!" (As if going to attack)
Forgive me for what is about to happen, mah fee'lo.
(Angered) They come to my island, attack my people, and you wish me to turn my head?! I will be going with you, and I will get my due.
(Smug) You think this is the peak of the Manufuga's (man-oo-foo-gah) power?! I haven't even begun to use it! Remember the name, for I, Adewale Cenhelm shall be your undoing!
One off side character from the island of Gunbir, (Gun-Beer) with an accent aiming to be something along the lines of a Nigerian / Wakandan (MCU) mixture
Gratta Ōn Deo, mah fee’los! What can I do for you?
Gratta, gratta. The bracket will be posted in 15. You can pass the time in the fighters lounge, or at the shops, but please do not be late.
Actually, the winner of Gunbir’s Strongest Fighter shall receive 5000 krysium and the right to challenge the defender of Gunbir.
A recurring side character,
Tribal Chief from the island of Gunbir, (Gun-Beer) with an accent aiming to be something along the lines of a Nigerian / Islander Somoan mixture
Voice Profile: Deeper, Silky rich, Nigerian/Samoan
Gratta ōn deo mah fee'los! Why don't we save the aggression for the arena, yeah?
(Projecting) Gratta Ōn Deo, Everyone! Welcome to the 23rd annual Gunbir's Strongest Fighter! (Pause for thunderous roar) I bring exciting news for you all today… My son, Adewale has officially announced he will be joining the tournament to challenge me, his own father, for the title of tribal chief!
How dare you interrupt our sacred tradition! You will be put down at once!
Guardian of the Manufuga Flowers, a soft soul with a warm heart.
from the island of Gunbir, (Gun-Beer) with an accent aiming to be something along the lines of a Nigerian / islander / Samoan
A one off appearance.
They are gentle, but firm, like a grand parent would be.
Why hello there, mah fee'lo. I would be careful with that, if I were you. The Manufuga is not for those of weak body or mind…
I'm afraid it's not something I can let you take...
Narrator A is the more color commentator, providing a more lively read of the situation, and offering the listener details not necessarily witnessed.
Inspired by more traditional anime narrators with high energy!
Last time, on Harbinger X Machina! Some things happened! What will happen next?!
(Mid exposition, leading into the Show) After much deliberation, peace was finally achieved through the signing of the Trinity Accords, a treaty honored by all to this day. However, even many centuries later, tensions still run high… our story begins just outside of Archon, capital city of Breksis. This is Harbinger X Machina!
Finn, the knight standing before the Trio of kids, defends with a sturdy ice wall. His snow white hair blows in the wind as he brings his sword into both hands, guarding. His icy blue eyes trained on the beast opposite his defenses. (Pause)Nero, the airborne knight, hurls a burst of fire from his palm, exploding the ice formation causing a cloud of steam to cascade the forest floor. He flicks his Red bangs out of his face with his hand before shining a pearly grin.
Abhitha is a recurring Antagonist, and permanent cast member.
She is the daughter of the Demon, Akuma, trained to be a cold assassin. She wields deadly fire Magic, as well as a few other arcane tricks she learned from her Elven mother. Despite being a cold blooded assassin, there's still a warmth hidden within her.
She is half Demon, half elven.
Voice Profile: Cold, Tsundere type, reluctant to feel,
Bonus fourth line:
"Do not underestimate me, or it will be your undoing!"
(Disrespected, and Annoyed) You incorrigible boy! This is not a game! Fight me or die an honorless death!
(Shocked, annoyed) G- you think some fake compliment is going to get me to waiver?? Not a chance! Hiyah!
(Rigid, showing signs of emotion) Y-you could have just left me there... but you didn't... you.... you saved me?! I'm not one who likes being indebted, and certainly not to the likes of YOU! So I will settle that debt right now!
Patrick is a main member of the party and a permanent cast member.
He is an ex soldier who never quite fit in as he lacked the killer instinct. His passions lied in cooking and taking care of those he cares about. Found an injured Kelsie on the run, and has been by her side every since, making sure she remains free of her past.
Patrick is a human.
Voice profile: friendly, open to accents. Warm, kind Hearted protector.
A fourth bonus line (again, not enough room):
(Calling out) "One piping hot dish, coming right up!"
(Momentarily startled, dissapointed) Gyah... Is he dead...? Did you kill him?
(After learning the monster they hunted was a mother)Awuh.. don't tell us that! I don't want to feel bad all of the sudden!
Hey! There's no need for name calling. It's our first time on the island, we just want to cheer on some friends. (Pause, a bit over the top anime like) Bums?! The only bum here is you!
Scooter is one of many village kids, under 10 years of age, always getting into trouble with his best friend Adrik, and usually draggin his twin sister Ellie along.
He is the lovable oaf of the group.
(Female/Feminine VAs preferred to capture the child voice)
(Upset, but playful) Oh you big meanie!
You better run! I'll get you back!
(Terrified) Waaaaah! Help! Ahhhhh!
Kelsie is a main member of the party, and a permanent member of the cast.
She plays off as an innocent, cute, and sometimes flirt, but is quite deadly behind the scope of her rifle. On the run from her past, she's just trying to survive, and remain free.
Kelsie is a human
Voice profile: High energy, bubbly, slight sass.
For a fourth line, (because there's no room) "Sayyyy Cheese!" (As she's scoping her target about to fire)
It's just a tranq-blade! He will wake up with a slight headache in 8 hours minimum… We will have plenty of time to get off the train before then. Besides… we need this more than him… and I like that necklace, it matches my eyes, don't you think?! (Slight pause, the giggles)You worry too much Patrick! Have I ever gotten us into trouble?
(After being cursed at, Aggravated and Shouting back) What did you just call me?! Didn't anybody teach you any MANNERS!?
And how long ago was this...? (Slight pause, then Giggles) It probably would have thought you were a little girl! (Burst out laughing)
A big dumb lunk. Stereotypical 80s Pro Wrestler.
Going for a Hulk Hogan/Macho Man vibe.
Take it easy!? Oh I'm gonna make you pukes cry!
Oi! Watch where ya going! Or I'll smash you both right here!
(Random fighting efforts, Grunts, yells, attacks, etc)
A recurring side character
One of the deadliest hunters the Hawthorne Wolves has to offer, leading her own pact of stealth assassins. She is very blunt, chaotic, and high energy. Almost appearing psychotic at times.
Voice Profile:
high energy, mischievous, slightly scary.
(Way too excited) Oh awesome! Are we taking them in?!
Did you really think we wouldn't keep tabs on you after you left us Nero? Or that Auric would allow Finn to be out in the wild without supervision? Tsk tsk. So naive.
(Determined, excited) This is going to be so much fun!
Maritae is a main party member and a permanent cast member.
Next in line to rule Haira, Maritae is reluctant to take up the throne. While she is quite capable of portraying the Royal she is, she much prefers to be wild and free. She can also be quite the seductress.
Mari is an Elven woman, from the Kingdom of Haira, the accent is inspired by a mix of Greek and Italian.
Voice Profile:
Regal, yet seductive. Very proper, and mature. Greek/Italian accent
Bonus fourth Line (no room):
(Calling out) "Now, now, boys... my eyes are up here... Hiyah! " (Throwing a punch)
Please! I was a nightmare to my Etiquette teacher, mother pulled me out of any future classes. But you, Shalia, you were perfect! A true princess. She spent so much time involving you in her dealings, she saw in you the same thing I see now. And the simple fact is, you're simply more refined than I am, the true image of a queen.
(Dissapointed, sighing deeply)Right… Nero Ignatius… the Crimson Wolf, how could I forget you of all people… maybe this was a mistake…
(After beheading a man) Apologies boys, but it was a lost cause.
A friendly man from the Kingdom of Haira, the accent is inspired by a mix of Greek and Italian.
Huh? Oh okay. Be careful young lady. Those beasts are no joke!
Goblin?! Well I don't know about that… but a really kind woman was just here who had pink hair and a friend.
That's a shame… she seemed like a real sweetheart.
Adrik is one of many village kids, under 10 years of age, always getting into trouble.
He is the leader of the pact.
(Female/Feminine VAs preferred to capture the child voice)
Haha! You're it Ellie! You have to catch us now!
(Startled) Ahhh! (Pause, scared) R-right! Sorry sir!
*childish giggling and laughter*
A minor side character with potential to return.
Captain of the Royal Guard, from the Kingdom of Haira, the accent is inspired by a mix of Greek and Italian.
Voice profile:
Regal, authoritative.
Yes, that… It would seem four adventurers had a bit of a disagreement over the splitting of loot, and took their frustration out in public… let's see, the woman refused to identify herself, but the others were Patrick Ado, Nero Ignatius, and another man just named Finn…
You see, Queen Regent, we have had a few more reports this morning of young women going missing… so far nothing has turned up, but I fear we may have a… serial killer… on our hands…
(Examining a body) Indeed… she seems hollow… there's another thing… She has some puncture wounds on her wrist.
Minor Role with some potential to return.
The Regency Clerk is a very sassy, tired adult lady, who is just trying to make it to her lunch break when two knuckleheads stop her.
Alright hun… first things first, there is a fee of 5000 krysium for starting a guild, are you aware of that?
(Uninterested) I can only imagine, sir… now I will need your three official letters of commendations and or recommendations.
(Sarcastic, annoyed) You two seem like some smart boys… you can figure it out. I'm going to lunch.
Braxton, aka Breksis Red, is a secondary antagonist who is recurring throughout the first season.
Braxton is a bad man, wielding a big gun who is use to getting what he wants. His legend is well known.
He is a human.
Voice Profile: Crude, Gruff, Cowboy type,
I see my reputation precedes me… good. Then we won't have to do this the hard way. My men and I have taken care of your monster problem. Shaleville is now under the protection of Akuma. If you don't like that, then you can tell it to my piece.
You won't have to worry about monsters or bandits anymore. All you gotta worry about is having enough krysium to pay the fine gentlemen who will be stopping by from time to time, sound good? And if you don't… I'll be back, and I'll bring tiny over there with me! Y'all have a nice day now.
(Experiencing an overwhelming power) Ooooooh baby! Now this feels... wow! Let's show them who the real strongest fighter is!
Ellie is one of many village kids, under 10 years of age, always getting into trouble, but only because she's looking out for her twin brother scooter.
She is the voice of reason usually.
(Female/Feminine VAs preferred to capture the child voice)
Urg! Adrik (Ae-Jrick), no fair! My laces were loose!
(Smug) Hmph! Fine... you're it! (Runs away giggling)
(Running) No tag backs Scooter!
A side character with potential to return in the future.
She is a wise shaman from the island of Gunbir, (Gun-Beer) with an accent aiming to be something along the lines of a Nigerian / islander mixture.
Runs a shop dedicated to the Arcane. A mystic, and mentor to Maritae.
Voice profile:
Soothing, mysterious, wise
Maritae Hunithundlin… it's good to see you child!
Daa.. your whole life people have existed to please you… Madi will tell you how it is…
You will always be the same rambunctious miekin (me-kin) I taught...
A firey ship captain, fearless and respected by all on the water. Once, her beauty was once mistaken for a naive girl in need of a hand. Now, The legend of Captain Delahaye is known far and wide.
Despite her appearance, and beauty, Jeanne will never turn down a challenge, whether it be impossible odds, a competition of booze, or a good old fashion beat down.
Voice Profile:
High Energy, Southern Accent, Determined, scrappy.
Howdy! My names Jeanne Delahaye, and that there is the Lioness, my pride and joy!
(Excited) Full sails! We're gonna ram right into the beast!
(Determined, focus) How many times do I have to tell you Davenport?! I don't care about the odds! We got this!
Narrator B is the more grounded Narrator, handling the bulk of narration, and descriptions of actions.
The fire explodes from Nero's hand, assuming the shape of a wolf's head. The searing flame howls toward its target impacting just as Kelsie fires. Her bullet misses its mark thanks to Nero's attack, but he pays no attention.
The Fordruas (For-drew-ahs) grabs the top of the ice barrier, and launches itself over as Kelsie fires. The bullet rips through the air, spiraling, finding its mark in the hind leg. The beast hits the ground tumbling before getting back to its feet.
Auric swings with a cross slash, as Finn side steps, throwing a barrier of ice before him. Auric's blades catch the forming structure, staggering him back. Finn leaps, stepping off the wall, kicking Auric in the side as he tumbles, the swords dissipating. Quickly, he regains his footing as the two engage again. Back in the lounge, Maira and Juliza watch the fight from the door as Nero approaches
An important side character of an episode.
Royal advisor to the Queen of Haira, despite being an outsider. He has served the throne for many decades.
Loyal to the Queen before, he has doubts of Mari's abilities to lead.
Voice profile:
Regal, Proper, English/British accent
Your coronation is tomorrow, please don't say such juvenile things. My kingdom needs your excellency!
(Angered, surprised) Have you gone mad?! Your sister is far too young-
(Arrogant) Please… if you expect me to beg, you'll sooner die of old age, you wench.
A recurring side character
One of the coldest hunters the Hawthorne Wolves has to offer, leading her own pact of Hunters. She cares very little for the emotions of those around her, and prefers to spend her time behind a scope, stalking prey.
Voice Profile:
Cold, disinterested, distant, mentally exhausted
(Annoyed, But disinterested) That's NOT my name... and no.
(Disinterested) Believe what you want to believe. I don't care.
(Disinterested) You should know better than anybody Nero, there's no such thing as a good monster… ...
Cors is a recurring role that will later develop into a main party member and become a permanent cast member.
Cors is a young man, just entering his adult life, despite being sheltered by his dwarven father. He is eager to see the world, but settles for reading about it in his travel guide.
Voice Profile:
Innocent, Naive, incredibly friendly, Open to a typical, yet lighter Dwarven Accent but not married to the idea.
Bonus Fourth Line:
"I really don't want to hurt you, but if I must- Hiyaaah!" (Ending in an attack)
(Exposition, but high energy)Archon has never been safer! So come on down, bring the family, and enjoy all Archon has to offer! Archon, where the line between dreams and reality, blurs.
(Exposition, but high energy) Looking for work? Be sure to check out the local quest boards posted just outside the city walls for the latest news, or visit the local guild hall for further instruction! Nothing beats a trip to Haira. Soak up the sun, and drink in the rich elven history! Haira, a place for business, and pleasure.
(Pleading) Please father, let me go with them! I'm more than capable of handling my own. I'll be alright, I promise!
The old Wiseman of Shaleville. Minor role with potential to return at a later time. He cares deeply for his people, but is no pushover.
He should have a wise, elderly voice.
We know who you are, and who you work for, Breksis Red… what do you want?
It is good to see you two again... I can not thank you enough for what you have done for my village...
(Caught off guard) guh- right... I'll have them prepare a meal right away.
A very energized fighter who overestimated himself. One off role.
*deep breath* (Start Quieter, and grow louder as if charging up this attack) haaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAA! HIYAH!
(Hit in the gut) Oomph!
Akuma is the Demon who leads the most prominent gang in Archon. He is a cold and calculating man, posing as a business man within the city.
Voice Profile:
Stoic, Proper, authoritative
Hmmm… a reasonable offer. I'll tell you what. You got a deal! You leave Cador Lendegrance to us… and you'll have your seat at the table… and if you even think of double crossing...
Come in. Regis, we're done here. Get out. (Pause, Angered by Regis not leaving) GET OUT!!!
Ahbitha darling... good to see you. Let me guess, Braxton screwed up?
TBD named Bartender, runs Nero's favorite establishment withing Archon. A recurring side role.
He should be cool, and suave. But other than that open to voice types.
(Mostly Jokingly) Hey! Hot head! You're dinging up my finish! Cut that out.
(Teasing) Yeah right, you never have enough krysium on you to close out your tab at the end of the night Nero!
I've got something here that should help take the edge off...
Ebele is a recurring character that plays a minor role in the first season. He is one of the founders of the Hawthorne Wolves, and a leading expert in monster knowledge.
Ebele is a human, looking for a POC VA.
Voice profile:
Deep, rich, proper, yet rugged.
(Certain, and Reassuring) There's no monster on this plain the Hawthorne Wolves can't handle.
(Expositional) Monster Index number 22: The Bathoren. Threat Level: Beta Classification: Demihuman. Special Traits: Toxic fangs, Blood Sight. Acute Hearing. (Pause) A Bathoren sees using an ability known as Blood sight, allowing them to track the flow within the veins of its targets through their acute sense of hearing. Known Weaknesses: Loud sounds may cause disorientation to blood sight.
I'm sorry Nero, but Auric is right. If that thing in there really is a Harbinger... it would be naive to let it walk out of here alive...
A demihuman creature who feeds on the blood of young women. The voice is intended to be a bit labored, and rough. Bathoren are feminine creatures, but open to male and female VAs
A bathoren is a batlike creature that uses its advanced hearing, and ability to see blood to track its targets.
It's not nice… to take what isn't… yours. (Pause) Do you scold a wolf… for killing livestock…?
Wrong… those first girls… they were just training… The princess is the main course… although I must admit… she wasn't the princess I had… intended for…
(Let's get some creature sounds, shrieks, grunted, attacks etc)
Side role, from the Kingdom of Haira, the accent is inspired by a mix of Greek and Italian.
Possibly casting multiple for the role
Stop! You are under arrest for disturbing the peace!
(Surprised) Lady Mari! You're alright?!
Woah, watch it!
Minor side role, with a lot of dialog. A typical pro wrestling fan, open to all interpretations, though this guy is insufferable, not a native to Gunbir.
First time ehh? That explains it… you both give off Mala fee'lo vibes… besides I wouldn't get your hopes up. My boy is gonna wreck every bum in this competition!
(Enraged) What did you say?! Chulley is an unstoppable, killing machine! What kind of name is Finn anyways?! And Nero?? They sound like total bums!
I don't know… doesn't look half as strong as Chulley's strongest hit…
Shalia is a minor role with potential to return down the role. The younger sister of Maritae, buy far more mature than her sister.
She is a princess from the Kingdom of Haira, the accent is inspired by a mix of Greek and Italian.
Voice Profile:
Regal, Soft, Warm, greek/Italian
(Surprised) Wa-*cough cough cough* WHAT?! How could you even joke about such things?
(Jokingly) So undignified! So unruly!
(Hurt) No… you all came at the perfect time… I fear any longer and I may not be here…
Smug huh? When I'm done with you, I'll be the one apologizing!
Uh oh! Looks like you've got nowhere left to run!
*Just give me a bunch of fighting grunts for punches and kicks thrown, HAAs and HIYAHs*
A recurring side role that will become a bit larger down the line in the second season.
Auric is a member of the Hawthorne Wolves, and a master of the Arcane Arts. He can come across as very cold, but he is a very analytical and calculating person.
Voice Profile:
English/British, very proper, snobbish.
You may have fooled Nero… but not me. And when you step out of line, The Wolves will be there.
*scoffs* Nero… I can't believe you threw away your life as a wolf… for that.
We both know it's not even close to being enough to kill you! (Gravely yell) Haaa!
Typical thugs. Masculine and feminine.
Casting multiple.
Get after them!
Remember it's still just a prototype… so be careful.
(Misc battle efforts, give me grunts, attack sounds, pain noises, etc)
A guard from the Kingdom of Haira, the accent is inspired by a mix of Greek and Italian.
Extras-unlikely to return
Silence! You are speaking to -
(Confused) y-your highness...?
Regis Donahue is a member of Archons Government, serving directly under Cador Lendegrance. He is Regal, yet sly, clearly having his own motives.
Voice Profile:
Regal, elegant, sly? Mischievous
(Beaten, short of breath) Eh-if you… if you put me in office… I'll serve you, Akuma. I swear!
(Sucking up) Why of course Cador, whatever you say, your wish is my command! (Pause) blegh.
(Sinisterly) You insufferable kids are ruining EVERYTHING! I didn't want to get my hands dirty... but if I have to-
The right hand man to Jeanne Delahaye, a faithful crewmen who often has to be the voice of reason, (not that that has ever stopped Jeanne before)
Voice profile:
Open, Wet Blanket vibes
(Unimpressed) You can't be serious captain... we're transporting THESE Roughians?
*sighs* just try not to wander around the ship... you are welcome on deck, but beyond that please stay out of trouble, or preferably in these quarters...
(Frightened) Captain! Have you gone mad?! We have to take evasive maneuvers now! If it readies another breath attack, the odds of us surviving are inconceivable!
