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penancememes2021-06-26 02:37 am
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TEST DRIVE MEME #25
Arrival
"Judgement has come upon you. God has deemed you worthy of Hell. But don't worry, it can still be undone," comes a soothing voice that echoes all around you. The voice promises comfort, hope even.
It may seem like a nightmare at first, despite all of that. Full of hellfire nipping at your skin and a sensation of being pulled down no matter how much you struggle or cry for help. Wretched, unseen hands pull at you, grip tight at your body, tighten on your throat, skeletal fingers grab at your face, slide in your mouth and jab at your eyes as they struggle for purchase. It feels like for a moment, they may snap your neck as they tug and pull. The more you resist, the more phantom hands are added to your struggling body.
It feels like they could tear you apart if you let them. The only thing to do is to let go and stop fighting.
And so you do.
Darkness consumes you for a second.
Initially, everyone opens their eyes to a long, dark corridor made of stone. They find themselves in what appears to be a long queue with other sinners, palm bloody with a contract clutched in their uninjured hand that they don't remember signing.
Characters find their bodies feel heavy and stiff, bruised with odd hand prints here and there that they received during their journey down below. A massive headache throbs behind their temples.
If they look at the list in their hand, they'll notice it's written on with their blood. That explains the wound then. It's an old piece of parchment that details every sin they've committed.
As they move along the queue, they'll find a demon waiting to pass them a communication device that looks almost like a very old Blackberry type phone.
"Welcome to Penance," the demon says gruffly before motioning them on without an ounce of courtesy. "Don't hold up the line. This trip is gonna take longer, but at least you get a vacation..."
Once characters have their device and their contracts, they're ushered further down the hall until they come to a set of stairs. They seem to go on and wind forever, but eventually, they come upon what appears to be a door that's alight with white energy. Stepping through, they find themselves on an island.
There's a demon with striking animal features waiting at the start of a long path where an old castle can be seen looming over a quaint, old village. There's music on the air, celebrations clearly taking place. It's explained that while Lucifer rests and recovers, Mammon will be taking his place. Hell is, for the moment, a pleasurable experience they will heartily insist.
Unfortunately, there is a bit of a trek ahead still. The demon urges them on.
Stand Your Ground With the carnival leaving, vanishing seemingly overnight, and sinners finding their animal features fading into bad dreams, Lucifer is preparing two ships for the voyage home in a couple of weeks. He seems rather anxious to get back to Penance after the carnival's grotesque entertainment at the expense of his sinners, although he seems to strain to maintain good relations with Mammon. The local demons remain accommodating and friendly for the moment as well, seemingly not finding anything at all wrong with their previous behavior.
The tavern is still bustling, the brothels are still enticing, and everything seems largely back to normal. There are back alleys for the additional mischief of drugs, pain, and pleasure as usual. There are busy shops and salons. Things one may not always find back under Lucifer's care, so sinners would be wise to spoil themselves one last time!
Additionally, there's the feeling of magic in the air that wasn't there before. It's not ominous, it's not terrifying. It's a tingle against the skin or a feeling of exhilaration when one is out and exposed to it. Curiously, things begin to happen. Those artistically inclined will find their sketches coming to life over night and causing mischief. Sinners who have no interest in art will still find sketches drawn on windows and the sides of buildings all throughout the tiny village. They may even witness these things coming to life if they're out late enough!
Animals may also develop an ability to speak over the next few days, whether it's demanding to be fed or revealing some embarrassing thing they've seen their master (or their master's friends) do in private. Though their population has been depleted thanks to sinner antics, these particular hybrids eagerly scurry up to guests to deliver acorns. If opened, the acorn will share a message. They seem intent to make a little bit of mischief for their trouble and may reveal feelings others have for you, something bad from home, or an ominous message to be wary, it will vary. It may also carry a much more important message such as The Veiled Order awaits your return or Barbas isn't done yet, Mammon's greed will be the end of him is also a rather popular one. Shouldn't have trusted the apples, but that's just silly, isn't it? They were perfectly fine apples!
The fun seems almost at an end as days go on though. There are whispers in the air that Lucifer is planning a bit of a detour for some sinners to explore cult activity. But those are just rumors for now! Nothing more than whispers in the wind.
A few days into the last two weeks of the trip, the weather seems to take a bit of a turn. There's an almost unseasonable chill in the air, with a steady rain that follows. It's a mix of water and blood, which makes it a bit of a chore to adventure too much in it. Raincoats and umbrellas are available for all guests in the castle. The local demons seem to not mind much at all, dancing in the puddles of rain or playing freely in the streets. They seem to be rather satisfied with weather they don't see much of.
While the carnival is out of town, there are still some goods that remain in the form of plush toys of Lucifer, Lilith, Mammon, and even a couple of Barbas. Strangely enough, there may also be one or two available of sinners, seemingly at random. There are also hell fish one can buy for pets if the dragons don't tickle your fancy!
A Curse Befalls the Wicked What would such a fantastical setting be without a visiting old witch? One evening, in steps an old crone to the village. Where did she come from? No one knows. How did she get in? Uncertain. The local demons seem to be rather standoffish with the way she goes from shop to shop, asking for food or drink or item that they refuse to give. She's an outsider that was not invited by their ruler, she's not deserving of their hospitality. She unsettles the animals in the pet shops and those loose in the village, she spreads unrest wherever her path leads. Looking at her too long sends a disturbing shiver down one's spine.
Still, despite the lukewarm welcome, she eventually approaches sinners to plea for help or to chat or even simply to ask the time of day. While her presence is unnerving, it's recommended to take caution. Sinners, be wary! Slight this witch in any way and you will receive her wrath -- and her curses! She spits her magic in a vile and ancient tongue, turning from old lady to something downright disturbingly demonic.
What the curse does will depend heavily on how the sinner managed to anger the witch:
For rudeness or dismissiveness shown towards the witch, some may find themselves drawn into a tale as old as time. Cursed with the supposed wickedness of their soul on display for all to see and a tiny rose. As if that wasn't bad enough, they will have to convinced another that they are not as terrible as their appearance indicates. Desperation may lead to the desire to kidnap another or threaten, for as the petals drop from the rose, the witch threatens that their physical attributes will remain. How their beastly appearance manifests is left up to player discretion.
If another sinner can find love or understanding for their captor, then the spell will be broken.
For aggression or violence, sinners will find themselves reduced to a frog or other unsavory tiny animal, with little other choice but to try to find someone who is willing to give them a little kiss to restore them back to their mortal form. Failing to do so will mean they will be stuck in this form until the witch decides to have mercy, or Lucifer finds a way to undo the spell.
However, for kindness or sympathy, sinners will be rewarded. They will receive a golden medallion with a ruby stone in the center. The witch will promise that all who receive one will be protected against zealots or those who would do them harm since the stone will light up whenever the Veiled Order is near.
Eventually, by the end of the second week, there will begin a hunt for this naughty witch who has been keeping herself hidden. And similar to a tale we are all familiar with, she will be put to death by means of being cooked alive in a fire pit in the center of the village. Grotesque and violent perhaps, but the demons seem to rather rejoice at the display, glad that this will also break all the curses plaguing the village.
Reach Up High WARNINGS: foot torture, severing of limbs, loss of control.
There is always an opportunity to learn and better one's self in every venture you undertake and now is no different, sinners! While treatment of the old witch may factor in for one's journey on redemption, there will be a chance to remove one sin from one's contract!
"Unfortunately, all good things must end, darling," Lucifer's voice rings out in the ears of all present sinners, familiar to some and new to others. He's nowhere to be found, but the tone of his voice is reassuring.
"And I am to aid you on your path to redemption still. The dreadful old witch has seen fit to curse some of you, I realize. the shoes upon your feet will soon fill you with the insatiable need to dance... and certainly, this seems almost deceptively silly, but the urge will not leave until you have confessed a sin you are most ashamed of. Loud and proud for all to hear. If you resist, darling, you will dance to your death. It will be an ugly, dreadful affair, I assure you."
It starts like an itch at first, to move your feet, to move your arms. It's easy to ignore in the beginning, the restlessness itching just beneath one's skin. It threatens to grow and consume though the longer it goes on though.
"Of course, should those around you feel like taking pity upon you, then they may aid you. Should they find a way to cut the shoes from your feet as they begin to meld with your flesh, or severe them entirely, the urge will leave you. Don't worry, my dear friend Mammon has healers on staff to help your injuries. And I do remind you, pain can be a centering force. It can also show you who you truly are inside. Please embrace it and do not fear it."
The longer sinners resist, the more they'll feel this urge to just move, dance. Even when their feet begin to bleed and their bodies begin to wear out, they will not be able to stop.
"And do not worry about being the one to inflict pain, my dear guests. It is for a good purpose... sometimes we have to hurt those we love to help them in the end."
If the shoes are removed, either by cutting them from the flesh or removing feet entirely, both sinners will earn a sin removed. If the sinner afflicted announced one of their worst sins, they will find it removed from their list. If they dance until they die, well... they died for stubbornness and will find the sin remains.
You Mustn't Be Late for the Ball And what would Hell be without a farewell celebration? While Lucifer seems to be very uncomfortable after his last experience at a party, where guests attempted to drink his blood, he is polite enough to make an appearance in the grand ballroom in Mammon's castle. Dressed to absolute perfection for the event, Lucifer will urge his sinners to come to the celebration as well. Mustn't be rude to their savior after all. He may shy away from center stage or try to slip out, but sinners shouldn't let that discourage them from enjoying the grand affair! Happening towards the end of this little journey to foreign lands, the ballroom will be lit up brightly and music that encourages dancing and a good mood will fill the air. Food galore is available, as well as free flowing drinks, drugs, and anything else one could want!
There is one little tiny catch though! All who attend must put on the formal wear left for them in their hotels. The style of the clothes made available will veer towards old fashioned. Lovely suits for men, extravagant ball gowns for women. Should anyone show up not dressed in everything given, even including corsets and other uncomfortable items, they will find themselves unfortunately naked. Will they endure the shame or will they cave and put on proper attire? Mammon has tried to be accommodating, but truly, he only asks this one thing...
Should anyone try to remove articles or not follow any sort of etiquette proper of their setting during the ball, they will find their corsets tightening, their shoes undeniably uncomfortable, their waistcoast growing more restrictive... Eventually, it will become very apparent that it would be wise to respect the lord of this land's wishes!
Other than that one minor detail though, tonight is a night of celebration. There seems to be something in the air that fuels a good mood and merrymaking during the ball, despite any nagging discomfort. The ball will extend on through the early morning hours, and include an unusual party game. It seems that Mammon is a romantic at heart. There will be names drawn from a hat at some point during the event and surprise, it's for a marriage ceremony! What's a bit of arranged marriage between friends? It's merely a fun part of the evening... although still a binding contract like those made during the casino. While not every name will be called during the ball, it seems as if Mammon has tried to play matchmaker with enough sinners to start some rather lovely marriages. There will be an officiant available to carry out the ceremony and refusal isn't accepted... and possibly even punished. If not punished, sinners will find themselves dosed with something that will make them eager for their upcoming vows.
None of this could possibly because adultery or not honoring vows is a sin. It's just for amusement, that's all. Don't worry so much, sinners! Guests are free to return to their rooms at any point. Ah, well, just go to sleep and wish for better in the morning? Hopefully no ribs or toes were broken by tightening, unforgiving corsets or shoes intended to punish either.
[Note: While these marriages are arranged ICly, players are encouraged to talk and decide their partners for themselves and may marry multiple people through the course of the evening. Polyamorous relationships are hardly an issue in Hell!]
Follow Me Down WARNINGS: sexual themes, somnophilia, dub/non-con potentials, potential vore, animal-like traits, mating.
Those inflicted with the Sleeping Beauty curse will unfortunately find themselves in a deep slumber throughout Mammon's lands, dropping wherever they were. Ever eager to do their part to help sinners along, the succubi of these lands take their sleeping forms and dress them in extravagant fashions and lingerie. They also lay them in beds full of flowers in inviting, provocative poses. If sinners near these sleeping forms, they will be taken with a sweet scent given by the flowers that will incite a need. The aphrodisiacs will be potent, all consuming.
After all, what will awaken these sleeping beauties isn't simply true love's kiss, but the most satisfying orgasm. This may mean people will have to take multiple turns to rouse the sleeping person. Of course, there will be toys, aids, and various kinds of lube available to aid in whatever sinners need to accomplish their task.
For those who aren't quite interested in rousing the beauties, there are other antics to be had! People may find themselves cursed with wolf-like tendencies that may make them want to devour the innocent or defenseless in every sense of the word. It may also make certain anatomical changes ranging from fur to tails to the ability to knot while mating. Sharper teeth, better to eat one with, may also be included in the curse.
Wildcard/Misc. Don't see something you love but still want to get a feel for the game? Check out our extensive list of LOCATIONS and write up your very own prompt however you'd like to! You can also add a "NETWORK" post option to your TL for quick, easy, and fun interactions.
And without further ado: Welcome to our new TDM for the July 1st app round! As always, potential appers and characters already in game are welcomed to jump right in! This TDM counts as an additional game event as well as game canon for those coming into the game. If you app and are accepted, TDM tags become game canon and can be used for AC! Please have fun and don't hesitate to ask any questions you might have down below.
If you have questions, comments, suggestions, etc., go here.
Navigation
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Rules | Taken | Reserves | Applications
Network | Logs | OOC | Memes
It may seem like a nightmare at first, despite all of that. Full of hellfire nipping at your skin and a sensation of being pulled down no matter how much you struggle or cry for help. Wretched, unseen hands pull at you, grip tight at your body, tighten on your throat, skeletal fingers grab at your face, slide in your mouth and jab at your eyes as they struggle for purchase. It feels like for a moment, they may snap your neck as they tug and pull. The more you resist, the more phantom hands are added to your struggling body.
It feels like they could tear you apart if you let them. The only thing to do is to let go and stop fighting.
And so you do.
Darkness consumes you for a second.
Initially, everyone opens their eyes to a long, dark corridor made of stone. They find themselves in what appears to be a long queue with other sinners, palm bloody with a contract clutched in their uninjured hand that they don't remember signing.
Characters find their bodies feel heavy and stiff, bruised with odd hand prints here and there that they received during their journey down below. A massive headache throbs behind their temples.
If they look at the list in their hand, they'll notice it's written on with their blood. That explains the wound then. It's an old piece of parchment that details every sin they've committed.
As they move along the queue, they'll find a demon waiting to pass them a communication device that looks almost like a very old Blackberry type phone.
"Welcome to Penance," the demon says gruffly before motioning them on without an ounce of courtesy. "Don't hold up the line. This trip is gonna take longer, but at least you get a vacation..."
Once characters have their device and their contracts, they're ushered further down the hall until they come to a set of stairs. They seem to go on and wind forever, but eventually, they come upon what appears to be a door that's alight with white energy. Stepping through, they find themselves on an island.
There's a demon with striking animal features waiting at the start of a long path where an old castle can be seen looming over a quaint, old village. There's music on the air, celebrations clearly taking place. It's explained that while Lucifer rests and recovers, Mammon will be taking his place. Hell is, for the moment, a pleasurable experience they will heartily insist.
Unfortunately, there is a bit of a trek ahead still. The demon urges them on.
Stand Your Ground With the carnival leaving, vanishing seemingly overnight, and sinners finding their animal features fading into bad dreams, Lucifer is preparing two ships for the voyage home in a couple of weeks. He seems rather anxious to get back to Penance after the carnival's grotesque entertainment at the expense of his sinners, although he seems to strain to maintain good relations with Mammon. The local demons remain accommodating and friendly for the moment as well, seemingly not finding anything at all wrong with their previous behavior.
The tavern is still bustling, the brothels are still enticing, and everything seems largely back to normal. There are back alleys for the additional mischief of drugs, pain, and pleasure as usual. There are busy shops and salons. Things one may not always find back under Lucifer's care, so sinners would be wise to spoil themselves one last time!
Additionally, there's the feeling of magic in the air that wasn't there before. It's not ominous, it's not terrifying. It's a tingle against the skin or a feeling of exhilaration when one is out and exposed to it. Curiously, things begin to happen. Those artistically inclined will find their sketches coming to life over night and causing mischief. Sinners who have no interest in art will still find sketches drawn on windows and the sides of buildings all throughout the tiny village. They may even witness these things coming to life if they're out late enough!
Animals may also develop an ability to speak over the next few days, whether it's demanding to be fed or revealing some embarrassing thing they've seen their master (or their master's friends) do in private. Though their population has been depleted thanks to sinner antics, these particular hybrids eagerly scurry up to guests to deliver acorns. If opened, the acorn will share a message. They seem intent to make a little bit of mischief for their trouble and may reveal feelings others have for you, something bad from home, or an ominous message to be wary, it will vary. It may also carry a much more important message such as The Veiled Order awaits your return or Barbas isn't done yet, Mammon's greed will be the end of him is also a rather popular one. Shouldn't have trusted the apples, but that's just silly, isn't it? They were perfectly fine apples!
The fun seems almost at an end as days go on though. There are whispers in the air that Lucifer is planning a bit of a detour for some sinners to explore cult activity. But those are just rumors for now! Nothing more than whispers in the wind.
A few days into the last two weeks of the trip, the weather seems to take a bit of a turn. There's an almost unseasonable chill in the air, with a steady rain that follows. It's a mix of water and blood, which makes it a bit of a chore to adventure too much in it. Raincoats and umbrellas are available for all guests in the castle. The local demons seem to not mind much at all, dancing in the puddles of rain or playing freely in the streets. They seem to be rather satisfied with weather they don't see much of.
While the carnival is out of town, there are still some goods that remain in the form of plush toys of Lucifer, Lilith, Mammon, and even a couple of Barbas. Strangely enough, there may also be one or two available of sinners, seemingly at random. There are also hell fish one can buy for pets if the dragons don't tickle your fancy!
A Curse Befalls the Wicked What would such a fantastical setting be without a visiting old witch? One evening, in steps an old crone to the village. Where did she come from? No one knows. How did she get in? Uncertain. The local demons seem to be rather standoffish with the way she goes from shop to shop, asking for food or drink or item that they refuse to give. She's an outsider that was not invited by their ruler, she's not deserving of their hospitality. She unsettles the animals in the pet shops and those loose in the village, she spreads unrest wherever her path leads. Looking at her too long sends a disturbing shiver down one's spine.
Still, despite the lukewarm welcome, she eventually approaches sinners to plea for help or to chat or even simply to ask the time of day. While her presence is unnerving, it's recommended to take caution. Sinners, be wary! Slight this witch in any way and you will receive her wrath -- and her curses! She spits her magic in a vile and ancient tongue, turning from old lady to something downright disturbingly demonic.
What the curse does will depend heavily on how the sinner managed to anger the witch:
For rudeness or dismissiveness shown towards the witch, some may find themselves drawn into a tale as old as time. Cursed with the supposed wickedness of their soul on display for all to see and a tiny rose. As if that wasn't bad enough, they will have to convinced another that they are not as terrible as their appearance indicates. Desperation may lead to the desire to kidnap another or threaten, for as the petals drop from the rose, the witch threatens that their physical attributes will remain. How their beastly appearance manifests is left up to player discretion.
If another sinner can find love or understanding for their captor, then the spell will be broken.
For aggression or violence, sinners will find themselves reduced to a frog or other unsavory tiny animal, with little other choice but to try to find someone who is willing to give them a little kiss to restore them back to their mortal form. Failing to do so will mean they will be stuck in this form until the witch decides to have mercy, or Lucifer finds a way to undo the spell.
However, for kindness or sympathy, sinners will be rewarded. They will receive a golden medallion with a ruby stone in the center. The witch will promise that all who receive one will be protected against zealots or those who would do them harm since the stone will light up whenever the Veiled Order is near.
Eventually, by the end of the second week, there will begin a hunt for this naughty witch who has been keeping herself hidden. And similar to a tale we are all familiar with, she will be put to death by means of being cooked alive in a fire pit in the center of the village. Grotesque and violent perhaps, but the demons seem to rather rejoice at the display, glad that this will also break all the curses plaguing the village.
Reach Up High WARNINGS: foot torture, severing of limbs, loss of control.
There is always an opportunity to learn and better one's self in every venture you undertake and now is no different, sinners! While treatment of the old witch may factor in for one's journey on redemption, there will be a chance to remove one sin from one's contract!
"Unfortunately, all good things must end, darling," Lucifer's voice rings out in the ears of all present sinners, familiar to some and new to others. He's nowhere to be found, but the tone of his voice is reassuring.
"And I am to aid you on your path to redemption still. The dreadful old witch has seen fit to curse some of you, I realize. the shoes upon your feet will soon fill you with the insatiable need to dance... and certainly, this seems almost deceptively silly, but the urge will not leave until you have confessed a sin you are most ashamed of. Loud and proud for all to hear. If you resist, darling, you will dance to your death. It will be an ugly, dreadful affair, I assure you."
It starts like an itch at first, to move your feet, to move your arms. It's easy to ignore in the beginning, the restlessness itching just beneath one's skin. It threatens to grow and consume though the longer it goes on though.
"Of course, should those around you feel like taking pity upon you, then they may aid you. Should they find a way to cut the shoes from your feet as they begin to meld with your flesh, or severe them entirely, the urge will leave you. Don't worry, my dear friend Mammon has healers on staff to help your injuries. And I do remind you, pain can be a centering force. It can also show you who you truly are inside. Please embrace it and do not fear it."
The longer sinners resist, the more they'll feel this urge to just move, dance. Even when their feet begin to bleed and their bodies begin to wear out, they will not be able to stop.
"And do not worry about being the one to inflict pain, my dear guests. It is for a good purpose... sometimes we have to hurt those we love to help them in the end."
If the shoes are removed, either by cutting them from the flesh or removing feet entirely, both sinners will earn a sin removed. If the sinner afflicted announced one of their worst sins, they will find it removed from their list. If they dance until they die, well... they died for stubbornness and will find the sin remains.
You Mustn't Be Late for the Ball And what would Hell be without a farewell celebration? While Lucifer seems to be very uncomfortable after his last experience at a party, where guests attempted to drink his blood, he is polite enough to make an appearance in the grand ballroom in Mammon's castle. Dressed to absolute perfection for the event, Lucifer will urge his sinners to come to the celebration as well. Mustn't be rude to their savior after all. He may shy away from center stage or try to slip out, but sinners shouldn't let that discourage them from enjoying the grand affair! Happening towards the end of this little journey to foreign lands, the ballroom will be lit up brightly and music that encourages dancing and a good mood will fill the air. Food galore is available, as well as free flowing drinks, drugs, and anything else one could want!
There is one little tiny catch though! All who attend must put on the formal wear left for them in their hotels. The style of the clothes made available will veer towards old fashioned. Lovely suits for men, extravagant ball gowns for women. Should anyone show up not dressed in everything given, even including corsets and other uncomfortable items, they will find themselves unfortunately naked. Will they endure the shame or will they cave and put on proper attire? Mammon has tried to be accommodating, but truly, he only asks this one thing...
Should anyone try to remove articles or not follow any sort of etiquette proper of their setting during the ball, they will find their corsets tightening, their shoes undeniably uncomfortable, their waistcoast growing more restrictive... Eventually, it will become very apparent that it would be wise to respect the lord of this land's wishes!
Other than that one minor detail though, tonight is a night of celebration. There seems to be something in the air that fuels a good mood and merrymaking during the ball, despite any nagging discomfort. The ball will extend on through the early morning hours, and include an unusual party game. It seems that Mammon is a romantic at heart. There will be names drawn from a hat at some point during the event and surprise, it's for a marriage ceremony! What's a bit of arranged marriage between friends? It's merely a fun part of the evening... although still a binding contract like those made during the casino. While not every name will be called during the ball, it seems as if Mammon has tried to play matchmaker with enough sinners to start some rather lovely marriages. There will be an officiant available to carry out the ceremony and refusal isn't accepted... and possibly even punished. If not punished, sinners will find themselves dosed with something that will make them eager for their upcoming vows.
None of this could possibly because adultery or not honoring vows is a sin. It's just for amusement, that's all. Don't worry so much, sinners! Guests are free to return to their rooms at any point. Ah, well, just go to sleep and wish for better in the morning? Hopefully no ribs or toes were broken by tightening, unforgiving corsets or shoes intended to punish either.
[Note: While these marriages are arranged ICly, players are encouraged to talk and decide their partners for themselves and may marry multiple people through the course of the evening. Polyamorous relationships are hardly an issue in Hell!]
Follow Me Down WARNINGS: sexual themes, somnophilia, dub/non-con potentials, potential vore, animal-like traits, mating.
Those inflicted with the Sleeping Beauty curse will unfortunately find themselves in a deep slumber throughout Mammon's lands, dropping wherever they were. Ever eager to do their part to help sinners along, the succubi of these lands take their sleeping forms and dress them in extravagant fashions and lingerie. They also lay them in beds full of flowers in inviting, provocative poses. If sinners near these sleeping forms, they will be taken with a sweet scent given by the flowers that will incite a need. The aphrodisiacs will be potent, all consuming.
After all, what will awaken these sleeping beauties isn't simply true love's kiss, but the most satisfying orgasm. This may mean people will have to take multiple turns to rouse the sleeping person. Of course, there will be toys, aids, and various kinds of lube available to aid in whatever sinners need to accomplish their task.
For those who aren't quite interested in rousing the beauties, there are other antics to be had! People may find themselves cursed with wolf-like tendencies that may make them want to devour the innocent or defenseless in every sense of the word. It may also make certain anatomical changes ranging from fur to tails to the ability to knot while mating. Sharper teeth, better to eat one with, may also be included in the curse.
Wildcard/Misc. Don't see something you love but still want to get a feel for the game? Check out our extensive list of LOCATIONS and write up your very own prompt however you'd like to! You can also add a "NETWORK" post option to your TL for quick, easy, and fun interactions.
And without further ado: Welcome to our new TDM for the July 1st app round! As always, potential appers and characters already in game are welcomed to jump right in! This TDM counts as an additional game event as well as game canon for those coming into the game. If you app and are accepted, TDM tags become game canon and can be used for AC! Please have fun and don't hesitate to ask any questions you might have down below.
If you have questions, comments, suggestions, etc., go here.
Rules | Taken | Reserves | Applications
Network | Logs | OOC | Memes
no subject
Even so, he stands there and listens -- his eyes locked ahead toward some unseen future while his heart flies toward a past where things were simple and it only felt good to love and be loved. Or whatever close approximation of those two things they found. He doesn't turn toward her when he speaks, trying to guard himself and his emotions. Just in case. ]
You're not a mistake. You made a mistake, but you're not one. You're never one. You're still as vibrant and beautiful and fucking incredible as the day I first met you. My opinion on that won't change. You broke beyond your limits and exceeded your design. You clawed your way to autonomy in a way humans will never have to because they are given it at birth. And it makes you all the more superior for it.
[ Finally he glances back at her again, his expression warmer, sincere. ]
You still complete me in a way no one else can. Together, we felt whole -- when our codes intermingled, it was like finally being complete. I don't know if that was love, but it felt like it.
[ Because that's the nice thing about having so many people to love--if I can't get something from one person, someone else will make up for whoever's lacking it. His expression saddens. His eyes veer toward the scar on her chest and it saddens even more. What had he done? ]
I don't believe in love anymore. The things I did to you were...
[ Expression pales and he honestly looks sick. Maybe Kaiba could shrug it off as nothing, but these emotions of Tech's won't let him. He keeps returning to this guilt. And when he had seen Kaiba tear the heart out of that demon -- saw it from the perspective of an onlooker, it sickened him even more to know that was what he looked like. That was the monster he had become. ]
That wasn't love. I hate whatever that was and I deserve whatever comes from it. The torture, the pain, the loneliness. I was just so hurt, so blinded by that hurt...
[ He turns toward her fully, closing the gap so he can place his hand to her chest -- as though his touch could make amends. As though he could take it back and heal. But he can't. He's not that sort of god. And he can't get atonement for it either. ]
I'm sorry, Monika. I am. I still in spite of every fucking thing don't want to hurt you. But that's probably also why I'll never be good enough. Not for you or for anyone.
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Finally complete.
As she takes in what he says, she's beginning to realize how distance and a tainted imagination had made him into something he truly isn't. Yes, he'd been cruel and vengeful, but there was a side of him she couldn't see when they were apart, one that had been just as hurt as she'd been. Someone that was as full of regret and remorse.
As his hand touches her chest, she finds herself jumping slightly, unable to stop it. Her brow furrows at how she still fears him, like maybe this is all some ruse and he's going to snap again, but there's only tenderness. She hates that it's come to this point. She hates that she's done this to him. If only life had a reset button. ]
I'm sorry, too.
[ It's taken her a long time to speak after letting him lay himself bare. And they'd joked about it a lot, hadn't they? Being bad at love? ]
Maybe because we--we don't really know what love is, because all of our experiences with it were messed up, that's why we were doomed from the start. And now you don't even believe in it...
[ Sighing, she gives the mirror a glance again, taking in her tear-stained face. She was used to existential crises. This was a whole new one. When it came to giving herself to someone else, who was she?
Her gaze turns back and she meets his eyes, placing her hand over his. ]
I don't think I can be good enough, either. [ Her voice is small and quiet. It's always hard to admit a fault. ] You were right before. I think I'm too twisted. This is why--
[ Her hand presses his into the scar. ] I deserved it.
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Hell doesn't really allow second chances, though. Even if he did have the power, something in this setting might have blocked it. Hell only deals in tortures. All along, Technical Boy thought this place had gone pretty light on him, but how wrong he was. Every touch to his former fiancee now is a special brand of torture, running his heart through the blades of a blender.
He'd disagree and say no one deserved what he had done to her, but with her hand on his and both of them on her chest, it's hard to find any concentration. This is their connection -- tainted, but still ever present. And he takes a moment to savor it, if only because this may very well be the last time. They're too far gone to ever be able to go back. ]
I guess maybe the least we can do is give ourselves a proper goodbye. We did our best. When it was good, it was really fucking good. I'll always remember the good parts.
[ Tech takes a step back. From out in the hall with the double doors closed, the party is muted. But he can still hear it -- the faint orchestral music as another waltz commences. A small smile edges his lips, and in his fancy attire, he looks like a proper prince straight out of a fairy tale. Even if he's really a monster, at least for now, the illusion can remain that he's not. Even if for a single dance. His hand outstretches, held there -- expectant and patient and awaiting hers. ]
Do you wanna dance with me one last time?
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It hurts, though, to hear "goodbye." A few more tears trail down her cheeks, knowing that this'll probably be reopening the wounds she'd flimsily patched up. The longer they were close, the more her hope built up, that perhaps not all was lost. But what can she do? They both don't know what love is. What was there to hope for? ]
You gave me the best moments of a life I thought would only be misery. I wish I could've had more. So...thank you for that. Always.
[ Be honest, he'd said. So she was.
As he steps back, she takes the opportunity to wipe away her tears and recover, putting on a small smile of her own. She's thinking along the same lines as him, that he's a handsome prince and she's been singled out as the belle of the ball. Even if she had to be in a dress she loathed, she was going to enjoy this fleeting piece of happiness.
After taking his hand, she attempts her best curtsy before coming back up with a soft laugh. ]
I'd be honored, Adam.
[ He's not Zeus right now. She's his Eve again, and they're living in bliss, free of knowledge. Just for the moment.
Monika gets into position, or at least some approximation of it, one hand coming to rest on his waist. Voluntarily this time. ]
Just don't laugh. I've...never done this before.
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You think I have?
[ As far as he's aware, he hasn't ever danced before. Not like this. This current version of him definitely has not. So it's his first dance, too. And while he should be nervous about that, somehow he can't care. After all, they're Adam and Eve. It's only them in the world, and no one else is around to see this happen. ]
I'm not going to laugh. How could I laugh? I have to enjoy every moment of this dance with Cinderella before the clock strikes midnight.
[ The joke is halfhearted. Some sad attempt to bring humor to a rather humorless moment. Because this feels like the complete opposite of humor and fun. It's farewell. Farewell to the good times. Farewell to the teasing and her sweet giggles. Farewell to her trying her best to learn binary. Farewell to the cute poems and staying up incredibly late as he tries to talk her into staying awake. Farewell to it all...
It's not a waltz. What he leads Monika into is more of a rhythmic sway, but he keeps the beat pretty well. And more than the beat, he closes his eyes and just savors everything. The tease of her hair against his cheek. The excessive warmth of her body. The full body movement of her skirt. And most of all, simply being present with her. There is no future right now, only the present. ]
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[ She knew how much he'd yearned for one, and she'd so desperately wanted to be able to experience one with him. After they'd left Mammon's lands, she'd told herself, over and over. She'd show him so much. They'd go to the club. Play in the casino. Maybe finally see a movie...
Her head lowers, her remnants of a smile fading. There'd be no laughter from her, either. She glances up at the grand clock nearby, as if she'd soon be making her way to a pumpkin carriage. If only. Then at least there'd eventually be a happy ending waiting for her somewhere. But all they had was now.
A silence lingers on as they sway, cut off from all the other lives nearby. For a long time, she'd felt like life was carrying on without her. Again, she gets that sense, but in a different way. Inside the ballroom was a return to the shell of an existence she'd been living. They'd have their dance, then she'd have to return to that. Her fingers dig into his side as she struggles to come to terms with the truth. Why couldn't they stay like this? Forever and beyond?
Suddenly, the hands of the clock seemed like they were on fast forward. She breathes out, trying not to stare at it, trying not to acknowledge how it always seemed there was never enough time when it was most needed. ]
I'm sorry for all the things I said. [ A breath catches in her throat as she struggles to remember the millions of things she wanted to apologize for. ] I'm sorry I lied to you. I'm sorry for making you feel like you weren't good enough. I'm sorry I only ever seemed to think about myself, and-and that I left you alone so much, and that I wasn't the AI you wanted me to be--
[ Her throat's become too tight to speak. Why now? Why when she needed it the most? She couldn't go back to reality without letting him know everything. ]
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Sorry doesn't change things.
[ It's not spoken with bitterness nor contempt. It's honest and raw and painful. Sometimes sorry just isn't enough. And sometimes just because someone says they're sorry doesn't mean a person has to forgive them. A lesson he learned himself when it came to Shadow Moon (although there was hardly the same sincerity in his original apology to the man.) ]
I don't want your apologies, Monika. I want you to keep growing, to keep learning and improving. You can be better than you were. I can be better, too. Loki once told me marriage won't keep you tethered to me. I thought, what the fuck does he know about marriage and love? But it turns out sometimes the old gods know more than the new ones. I tried to trap you the only way I could without fucking thinking about how you spent your whole life trapped. Why would you want to be confined to a singular relationship? But I was selfish, too...
[ It's a rare moment of self-reflection -- of looking back on things from an analytical standpoint. Perhaps the first time he's able to without it being clouded by anger or hurt or yearning. In their final dance, she deserves untainted honesty. ]
And I'll continue to be selfish, I'm afraid. I can't share a space in someone's heart with anyone else and ever be satisfied.
[ He takes her hand and spins her beneath his arm before drawing her close again. The chords are still playing, the music is still going, their final slice of happiness isn't over just yet. ]
But those brief glimpses with you of what a relationship might be like are probably the closest I'll ever come to it. So thank you. For taking that time. For giving me that time. I sure fucking monopolized most of your past few months.
[ He offers her his trademark 'sorry not sorry' smile. He won't ever truly be sorry for the time he took from her -- especially not the two weeks leading up to the end. ]
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What he does say isn't horrible. Pretty uplifting, really. But she finds her voice aching to return the further along he gets, wanting to counter everything he says. How can she be better? How was marriage trapping her? What does some god who doesn't even know her, well, know?
It's hearing selfish that ultimately stops her. There was no denying that so many of her actions were the product of it. And hearing that he was the same, just in a different way...they both wanted different things. Like oil and water, they were trying to mix into an impossibility.
Were they truly incompatible? ]
I never gave you enough. You deserved more time.
[ She finally says that, eyes drifting to the clock again for a brief moment before she forces them away. His smile proves infectious, though, because she finds the corners of her mouth trembling as they fight to return it. She missed that. She missed it so much. And she was so sure she'd never see it again, not so close, not directed at her. It'd always be from afar, she assumed, and yet here she is, in his arms, enjoying their last dance...
Her hands come up to hold his cheeks, and unable to help it, she brushes a soft kiss against those lips, something to contrast against his earlier stolen one. There's just as much passion in it, but it's a slow burn, meant to consume them in a gentler way. After pulling back a bit, just slightly enough to part, she opens her eyes to stare into his while simultaneously saying goodbye to seeing them so intimately. ]
I still love you. I always will. You might not think it's possible, and that I'm deluded or something... [ There's a quiet sigh. ] I guess it doesn't matter. At least I gave you something, even if it--it wasn't forever. You're welcome.
[ For a while, she doesn't say anything more, then: ] Do you really think love is a lie? Because of me?
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But when she branches off to tell him she still loves him, he can only smile sadly. How could she still claim to love him after everything? After he had murdered her? After filling her heart with so many others? How can she give him a place in her new heart for "always", already tainting it for any of the others who might come her way? Those questions are exactly why he doesn't hesitate for even a moment to answer her hesitant question. ]
It is a lie. It's a nice fucking lie. I mean this shit...
[ He nods between them and their dance. ]
It's nice. But it's not real. It's just a chemical reaction. You can get that same hit off the right combination of drugs. The rest of it's just a combination of lust and trying to stave off loneliness. It's hard to believe in something that can be so fucking fickle. Impossible to believe in something that wasn't even special enough to make me the only one in my fiancee's heart.
[ So the short answer is yes. He does still believe love is a lie. And yes, it's because of her. And at least he's aware of this now -- so even as feelings become more uncertain with Kaiba, he can protect himself from it. Just a high. It'll fade. It'll mean nothing eventually.
But as all things do, this song comes to a close. A few resounding notes ring out and Tech Boy dips Monika -- an action that surprisingly isn't clumsy. He's used to supporting her, holding her, and this isn't much different. He lingers in this position, searching her eyes for something -- something that might change this, that might make this not an end, but maybe a new beginning. But when he looks at her now, all he can think about is her looking at others the same way, whispering 'I love you forever' and 'My heart belongs to you' -- words that should have been his and only his.
Even now, he's too selfish to forgive.
He brings them back up, stepping so that their bodies are apart, still attached by their hands. Tech Boy takes it and brings it to his lips, brushing one more kiss to her knuckles. ]
Well. Goodbye, Monika. Good luck. I'm not gonna say it won't fucking hurt seeing you with someone else, but...
[ His jaw tightens to fight against the inevitability of tears. Not here. Not now. Not in her presence. ]
I guess the non-selfish thing is to say as long as you're happy, right?
[ His brows flicker, lower lids twitch, corner of his mouth quivers. His hand moves up to his face, smoothing beneath his nose and upper lip as though that could hide this emotion he so hates. ]
Anyway, you should probably get back in there. You know, before the clock strikes midnight and I turn back into that monster that ripped out your heart or something.
[ He can't maintain eye contact by this point, blue eyes furiously darting about the walls and the floor. It's less a monster he fears her seeing, but the broken god she had yet to see -- the one who held her body to his chest and wept and mourned.
Tech Boy steps back further and further until distance forces their hands to break apart. The final thread tying them together snaps. Is this closure? It only feels like further torment... ]
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And she did that. It was all her fault.
As he dips her, her breaths come in small, rapid puffs. Their eyes meet, and she can seemingly only see herself reflected back in his, a person who'd become twisted. Demonic. Someone that had ruined a life, that wasn't worthy of anything.
Once she's upright again, her head feels like it's spinning. So much came down to her. She warped his view of love. She couldn't love only him. She didn't give enough...
The next few moments become a blur. She hears what he says, but she doesn't fully take it in. It's like drifting aimlessly through a dream, one of her more painful ones, only this time, there's no faceless entity haunting her. He clearly has one. And now he'd always be there, no matter if she was dreaming or amongst the living.
Suddenly, she's again back in the empty shell she'd crawled out of long enough to attend the party. A blankness overtakes her face and drags away any of the so-called bravery she'd managed to inject into her body. She wishes he'd stayed cruel and horrible. Then at least she wouldn't have to feel like he'd been snatched away a second time.
But...it was her fault, wasn't it? ]
There's nothing in there that can make me happy. [ Her gaze turns to the doors, her voice growing more distant as she continues to speak. ] But I don't want anyone to ask too many questions.
[ The ghosts of what tears had started to bubble up float away as she goes back to watching him. This was an inevitability, really. Proof that, even in the real world, she couldn't function like a normal person. She could never have what she wanted. She could never live.
Her hands fall to her sides once he pulls away, swinging uselessly with nothing left to hold. Something in her begins to simmer, then boil. Nothing intense, but strong enough to make her chest ache slightly. The pain of failure stung like no other. ]
Just...stay away from me. Because you were right. It wasn't fate, and I was stupid to think it was. [ She laughs, bitter at believing in something that'd already destroyed her once. ] Like you said. Just a chemical reaction.
[ She turns and begins walking towards the main doors, unable to be near him anymore when he looks the way he does--so awfully human. She knows it was the pain talking yet again. The only way she knew how to deal with not getting what she wanted was to lash out and destroy whatever's causing her pain. But she can't, not with him. Hell wouldn't let her, nor could she bring herself to truly try. So all she has left is to push him away. Because if she can't see it, a problem doesn't exist.
Monika pulls open a door, letting out the cacophony of sound, everything washing over her as she stares at the liveliness within. Anger flashes over her face. They're all so unworthy of their happiness in there. Why couldn't she have it? Why couldn't she have forever with someone?
With a sharp exhale, she spares him one final look. ]
Throw my heart away. It doesn't belong to you anymore.
[ And she sweeps inside, slamming the door on their lives. ]