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Penance Mods ([personal profile] penancemods) wrote in [community profile] 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.


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twatter: ([ 58 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-08 06:10 am (UTC)(link)
[ No idea what pill I took she says, and he likes her all the more for it! It only compounds each time they bump into others, disturbing their stupidly perfect dances and the easy cursed apology Ava lets out to contrast her pretty pink dress. The toe stepping earns a shrug with a laugh. It's all good. Not like it hurts.

With the spin and the unceremonious swirl of her dress, he counter spins her so that she's right back into his arms and they can continue their gracefully ungraceful dance. ]


You can just call me Tech, unless you got some cooler nickname.

[ He doesn't really want to get into the whole thing about not having a name. It's boring, annoying and usually leads to the same conclusion of people calling him 'Tech' anyway. So he'll just skip straight to it. ]

But Ava... [ He tastes the name, cocking his head. ] Lot of different meanings on that one. Could mean bird or life or living one. Which one fits you best?

[ Technical Boy is basically a huge nerd sometimes and a walking wikipedia -- please bear with him. He's cool, he promises! ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715505)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-08 09:30 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Tech. Somehow she didn't see that coming. ]

I'll let you know if I come up with anything better. [ It has a ring to it though, plus she likes the potential to make annoying puns with it (no need to get TECH-nical).

She's never researched the meaning of her name before - that much is obvious from how surprised she looks when he lists associations with it, particularly the last two. ]


You're bullshitting me. [ It has to be a coincidence, right? Her movements have slowed and she's staring up into his face like she's trying to work out if he just made a lucky guess, or whether the information he's just shared with her has anything to do with the fact that he's a god. Does the fact that her name means life mean she was fated to come back from the dead? Was it her destiny all along? ]

Oh, totally the bird one. [ Ava says eventually, trying to make a joke out of the situation because that's what she does, but she clearly connects with the other meanings. It's obvious because she's the worst liar in the world. ] I'm like a... an albatross.

[ Really, Ava? An albatross? That's not even a cute bird. ]
twatter: ([ 118 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-09 12:27 pm (UTC)(link)
[ He tilts his head slightly at that you're bullshitting me comment, followed by the slower pace of her steps. It's the slightly perplexed look of someone who is very much not bullshitting her. She doesn't clarify, though, and he doesn't ask -- at least not immediately. Instead, he branches off into a laugh. ]

Fucking albatross? That's cool, I guess. They got great wingspans. Very efficient at flying. You don't have the grace of one, though. And you're definitely cuter than one. But albatross, sure.

[ Tech Boy winks. Their pace has slowed into less of an attempt at waltzing and more of a classic slow dance, a casual sway back and forth to the beat. This is more comfortable, more to their modern sensibilities anyway. He won't complain. ]

What's so unbelievable about your name meaning life, though?
formerlydead: (Default)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-09 01:44 pm (UTC)(link)
[ She definitely knows she has no grace, but she thinks it's pretty rude of him to point that out to her face (keep your thoughts to yourself, Tech Boy). And she's about to say as much - until he calls her cute. Or cuter than an ugly bird (no offense, albatrosses), so maybe it isn't much of a compliment. But it's still a guy calling her cute in some capacity and she's not used to that, sputtering wordlessly at him, her cheeks threatening to turn as pink as her dress.

When she eventually learns how to speak again, she snorts: ]
Sure I am... [ Her, cute? Hah, no, she's weird and awkward and a damn mess most of the time, and not in a hot way. ] And you're a bird and name expert?

[ She shakes her head at his wink, trying to hide her smile from it, but there's a definite shift in her mood brought on by the subject of life. It shows in the way she goes quiet at his question, her gaze only as high as his chest until she finally tips her face up to meet his eyes again. ]

It's just... fucking ironic. [ She swears pretty often, but how much Tech swears just brings it out of her even more, probably because she knows she's in the company of someone who won't scold her for it. ]

Ever met a resurrected albatross? [ Because he's dancing with one now. Surprise. ]
twatter: ([ 229 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-09 05:08 pm (UTC)(link)
I'm your fucking neighborhood google -- so yeah. A name and bird and a little bit of fucking everything expert, at your service.

[ He draws one of his hands back to tap at his forehead before returning it to the small of her back. Always fluid and adaptable, Tech shifts to match the tone. His dumb as shit grin becomes something a bit more serious and thoughtful -- observing her as her eyes don't quite meet his, as they linger elsewhere and the cogs of thoughts turn in her mind. Finally, she looks at him again and gives him a small peek into what had left her pensive. ]

Resurrected albatross? Can't say I have. Wouldn't the resurrection part make you a little more like a phoenix? Rising from the ashes, blah blah blah?

[ Eyes drift past her toward the crowd of dancers surrounding them. His turn to be pensive. ]

I mean, obviously as a god, I'm no stranger to the whole resurrection thing. It's not weird. Just part of the whole brand. Famous examples being the Christian example everyone knows and loves. But other gods revive. Not just Jesus. And other gods can bring people back from the dead, not just Jesus. Does that mean you've had an encounter with something divine?

[ His gaze meets hers again. ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715525)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-10 12:04 am (UTC)(link)
Or you're not a god and you're just a really smart guy who absorbs information.

[ She's still waiting on proof he is what he says he is, but then maybe it's hard to prove. Maybe she just has to take his word for it.

Now a phoenix is pretty. She likes that comparison, though her return to the living was far from pretty. It really hurt, actually. ]


It was more than an encounter. It's... a part of me now. [ They made her divine, in a way. She has all these abilities that would make anyone religious kneel at her feet. ]

They put something inside of me... [ Sweeping her hair to one side, she reaches behind her for his hand against the small of her back and raises it higher, so it's touching the skin just below the back of her shoulders. If he presses with his fingers, he'll be able to follow the circle of a scar, uneven on her skin. ] Right there.

[ Why is she telling him any of this? Maybe because she feels comfortable telling a god more than a normal person. He won't freak out. He'll understand. ]
twatter: ([ 221 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-10 01:29 am (UTC)(link)
[ He allows her to take his hand, curious where she's leading and what she's showing him. His hand falls on her scar, fingers mapping the circular pattern in a slow, steady trail. It's a disk shape, probably an object imbued with magic. His eyes linger on Ava's in question. Did she want it out? Or is the magic basically what's keeping her alive?

The scar, though, reminds him of Monika and the several she had all over her body. After a moment of skimming fingers over Ava's skin, his hand flinches back -- almost ashamed to be touching another woman's scar. What a stupid mess he still is. He's already slept around to try and fuck the pain away, and now what? Touching a scar is too much?

His brows draw together and he resettles his palm against her lower back again. Stupid. Emotions are so fucking stupid, stupid, stupid. ]


So does that make you a goddess now? Or angelic, maybe? Are you Ava the albatross angel?

[ He makes a slow return to humor, lips curling playfully. ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715584)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-10 01:03 pm (UTC)(link)
[ There's a degree of intimacy that comes with showing someone a scar and allowing them to touch it. Some might even argue it's more intimate than sex (depending on the sex, of course). But Ava lacks the knowledge of a lot of social norms. Hell, she's still learning how to interact with people since up until recently, the only people she ever saw or talked to was Diego, a much younger boy than her at the orphanage, and Sister Frances, her caretaker.

And she can tell maybe she did something wrong when Tech's hand suddenly draws back and his brow furrows. She almost wants to pull away from him entirely as an apology, but then his hand returns to the small of her back again, and she relaxes. It's good that she hasn't fucked up this potential friendship already.

Snorting at him: ]
A warrior, actually. [ A warrior nun to be specific, but the whole Catholic military side of it is a whole other story she's not sure there are enough hours left in the evening to go into. ] Killing demons on Earth with my superpowers is the catch to a second chance at life.

[ And she's run away from that responsibility ever since that bombshell was dropped on her. ]

So fair warning, I could probably kick your godly ass. [ Aaand she's back to the jokes, smiling up at him. ] So try to stay on my good side
twatter: ([ 168 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-10 07:00 pm (UTC)(link)
Always a catch, huh?

[ Gods, demons, and even most humans always dealt in catches. It's ironic as fuck, though. Ava being tasked to kill demons and being sent to hell. Maybe her calling is to gut it from the inside out -- though the unfortunate issue with this place is demon powers are always gonna win. Can't muscle their way out of this. They had to be smart. Strategic.

His eyebrows raise at her playful threat, though there's definitely an inkling of truth to it. She could probably kick his godly ass. It's not like it's difficult to do -- he's not really made to be a fighter. He's the guy who supplies the weapons. ]


Duly noted. Is that how you flirt? Threatening to kick someone's ass?

[ He laughs, spinning her again. ]

Gotta say I'm not too much of a masochist, so that doesn't really do it for me. But I'm sure you'll find someone willing to take you up on that offer. Hell's a weird fucking place.
formerlydead: (Default)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-10 09:04 pm (UTC)(link)
Always.

[ She's definitely aware of the irony of being in Hell and surrounded by the very monsters she's meant to kill. And she hasn't killed one demon since she got here because she doesn't have that special sword which is damn typical. Not that she thinks she could take all of them even if she had it. Maybe it's a blessing that she doesn't because she'd probably die fighting them, and that's the entire reason why she's avoiding her Halo-bearing responsibilities - because she doesn't want to die with her whole life ahead of her like every woman who carried it before her.

And she's going to shove playfully at his shoulder with one hand as soon as he stops spinning. He's lucky she managed to contain her strength at that moment or she could have accidentally thrown him across the room. ]


Who said I was flirting with you? Asshole.

[ She suddenly has a question. ] How old are you? Because you look like you could be my age but I guess gods are like... eternal, right?
twatter: ([ 274 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-11 01:53 am (UTC)(link)
[ The playful shove earns a playful grin. It really is nice to have this moment -- this small, uncomplicated moment of fun where he can forget how only loneliness awaits him at the end of the night. Ava makes it easy to fall into a sense of fun again, and he's grateful for that. ]

My bad. I didn't realize you were just a bully.

[ He holds his hands up preemptively before she can smack him again, smiling a smile that fades slowly after her question. It's not necessarily a bad question -- just not one he's sure how to answer. ]

Eh, it's fucking complicated. This current version of me has been around for uh...29/30 years, maybe? But technology is constantly evolving. And back home, I learned that I might have actually been around in some form since ohhh...when humans first discovered fire. Problem is, every time I upgrade, I don't remember the last version of me. So yeah, I don't have an exact number for you.

[ His lips pinch together and he leads them away from the dance floor. ]

Someday this version of me will disappear, too. So fuck it. I'm just trying to enjoy it. Life's too short to let a bad breakup keep you down, am I right?

[ He wants to be right. He wishes he was right. Because he really, really wants to stop dwelling on this. ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715498)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-11 10:16 pm (UTC)(link)
[ She almost shoves at him again until he sees his hands up waiting for it and he's not going to give him the satisfaction of calling her predictable. So at the last second of her hand reaching out towards him, she dusts at his shoulder instead, like she was removing something for him. ]

You had a bug on you. [ Would a bully remove a bug from his shoulder? Ava thinks not. ] I'm a nice person.... most of the time.

[ She's definitely had her moments where she's felt like a dick, but she was probably overthinking it. She tends to overthink everything. ]

So you could have been hanging out with cavemen? [ She snorts at the mental image. ] Sorry, I'm just picturing you dressed as one of the Flintstones... Infinite lives, though? That's fucking nuts.

[ As much as she was enjoying the dancing, she's glad for the break and she can understand why he's lead her away from the rest of the crowd once he discloses something personal. ]

Gods date? [ She blinks at him in surprise before realizing how rude that sounded. ] Sorry, that was a total dick moment and not an appropriate response to hearing about a break-up. Um... [ Let her try again. She's never had to comfort someone over this. Does he need comforting? What do people say in this situation? ]

I'm sorry if you're hurting. [ That sounded better. ] Are you, like... okay?
twatter: ([ 148 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-12 10:27 pm (UTC)(link)
[ His smile is weak at her incredulous question and then instant apology. Oh, how Tech Boy wishes he was above it all -- perched on his pedestal the way he was back home, far removed from humanity. It was lonely, but at least it didn't hurt. ]

Gods aren't immune to romances. Like haven't you heard that shit in the myths? Most of it comes back to haunt them. Especially where humans are concerned.

[ Monika hadn't been human, but she tried to mimic their behavior and in many ways, that had been worse. ]

I'm good, though.

[ He's not. But he doesn't want to dump it all on this near stranger. ]

I mean, I will be. I'll get over it. I have no choice. I know a girl who can kick my 'godly ass' now. So I'm not about to be the one to drag down the mood. You wanna stay in this stuffy fucking party? Or you wanna get out for a bit?
formerlydead: (pic#14715520)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-13 12:12 am (UTC)(link)
You're talking to a girl who grew up in a Catholic orphanage. The only myth I was allowed to learn about was The Lord Himself. [ She snorts. ]

...If you need a hug, let me know. [ She's half-joking, half-serious about that offer. If gods aren't immune to romances, then they aren't immune to hugs either. Maybe gods need hugs sometimes too, though Tech doesn't seem like the type to admit that. ] Mixed signals from your bully, I know. [ She adds to keep the mood light, since all signs point to him wanting that. ]

I could do with some fresh air. [ She follows his lead and the closer they get to outside, she has to ask something that's niggling at her. ]

So the whole... you might disappear thing. Will you know when it's about to happen? Could you give people a head's up?

[ And by 'people' she means her. She's suddenly imagining him disappearing mid-conversation and the idea makes her feel very alone, when he might be the first person she's connected to the most here. ]

It would just suck if you suddenly went poof because you're, um, easy to talk to. [ She'd like to crawl into a hole and die after admitting that, thanks. ]
twatter: ([ 155 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-13 08:56 pm (UTC)(link)
[ He's more than happy to lead the way out through the large double doors and toward something a little less stifling. There's a balcony on the outside of the castle, maybe they can find the door that leads to it -- do a little bit of fun, teenage snooping.

Tech starts in the general direction where he believes it to be, and pauses, blue eyes veering toward her after her question. He probably shouldn't think too much of it, after all, they only just met -- but it still warms him...this thought of someone actually wanting him around. It's not something he's used to. Not here and definitely not at home. He tries to tell himself she'll change her mind, like everyone else. But in this ache of loneliness, it sure is nice to feel like someone cares. ]


I don't know if I'll know it's happening, but I'll text you if anything feels weird. Or I'll just text you in general. You're pretty cool, bullying aside. Wanna do something stupid?

[ He grins, draping his arm casually over her shoulders as he leans in to conspire. ]

So I know there's a balcony out there. Can't get to it through the guest rooms, which miiight mean going up a floor. Maybe poking around a demon room or two. You up for the challenge? We could get caught and get into some serious trouble...

[ They could, but Tech Boy doesn't sound like he cares much. From his smile, it seems he's willing and eager to take the risk. ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715482)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-13 11:11 pm (UTC)(link)
Really? [ Don't sound so thrilled about someone texting you, Ava, play it cool. ] I mean, if you want, I guess...

[ This is actually a pretty big moment for her. She's never had anyone text her before, mostly because she's never owned a cellphone. Which emoji will she use first? It's all very exciting.

Ava has to wonder what's so appealing about a balcony (maybe there's a good view from up there or something), but it's probably the thrill of being caught that's got Tech so excited. And okay, maybe she likes the idea of sneaking around and entering a restricted area. He's definitely right to call the idea stupid, but it does sound fun. ]


So would now be a good time to mention I can phase through walls? [ She smirks at him. She can't bring Tech with her through a wall, but she can unlock a door from the inside. ]
twatter: ([ 145 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-14 04:04 am (UTC)(link)
[ What's the point in being in hell if they're not gonna break some rules? It's all part of trying to feel alive! Tech needs it. And Ava probably also needs it. And after her remark about phasing through walls, he branches off into a laugh. ]

Uh yeah. Fucking great time to mention that. What better use for your demon murdering powers than using them to potentially piss off some demons?

[ The big wigs were all in the party at the moment, though. So Tech's not too worried. The worst they'll encounter is probably some grunt demons.

His hand slips back into Ava's to guide her toward the stairs. To anyone passing by, they might look just like a normal couple -- escaping the ball to head toward their bedrooms. It doesn't help now that they're out of the vicinity of the ballroom, Tech is loosening his damn cravat. These party clothes were so uncomfortable, geesh. But it only further lends to the illusion that they're an overeager couple. ]


So what else can you do? Are you basically superman? Like can you fly? Do you have x-ray vision? Can you totally tell I'm packing some weed right now?

[ He snickers, glancing around them to make sure no one's in sight before ascending a staircase that isn't necessarily open to the sinners. ]

Are blond-haired, blue eyed gods your kryptonite?
formerlydead: (pic#14715457)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-14 12:39 pm (UTC)(link)
[ 'If you can't murder the demons, why not piss them off?' is probably the worst way she could spend her time in Hell...

And that's exactly why she's all for it. She is the queen of bad decisions, fueled by a god who seems like one of mischief more than anything else. ]


Now you're mentioning you have weed on you? [ At least that's something they can do on the balcony once they reach it. She has to lift up the edge of her dress so she doesn't fall face-first on the stairs, not dignifying his last question with an answer.

(Her weakness is anyone who will show an interest in her. She was willing to run away with a boy she barely knew back home and now she's running away from a ball with this guy. It seems like she's destined to make the same mistakes.) ]


So I can see demons - which I guess everyone can do here, but back home they're only visible to me. I can heal super fast. I can do this like, shockwave thing? Like you've been hit with an explosion. And no, I can't fly.

[ Wait, she just remembered something - ] Shit, I forgot I can levitate too. [ How does someone forget that??? ] I've only done that once though when I was chained to a bed and freaking the fuck out. A lot of what I can do is triggered by emotions so if I'm panicking, it just... happens. I'm still learning how to control all of it.
twatter: ([ 118 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-20 04:03 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Tech Boy smirks at that comment about weed, and removes his vape pen from his pocket -- giving it a little wave like a magic wand. He's always carrying -- though usually in mods for the pen rather than actual weed. He's more than happy to share once they get up to the balcony. Which for now, he pockets the vape pen again and creeps toward a set of double doors on the top floor landing. ]

So basically you are Superman.

[ He smiles back at her, a playful tease. Maybe she's even superior to Superman, limitless. She still has yet to discover the possibilities all stemming from that circular disk in her back. ]

Cuter, though. Big buff dudes, not really my thing. Maybe we oughta get you a pair of glasses so you can hide in plain sight from the unsuspecting demons you've come to take out. At least until you can get a grasp on your powers which I'm more than happy to help you do, if I can help in some way.

[ With a wink, he gestures toward the two large doors. A hint for her to do her wall phase-y thing. This might not necessarily be helping, but it's some practice. And if they get into trouble for being up here, she'll get the chance to practice even more! See. Tech Boy is helping....

The room itself is locked, probably some form of meeting area for the demons. With its dusty tables, chairs, and cobwebbed bookshelves, it doesn't seem like its seen use in a while. Beyond the room lies the balcony in question, lined with hideous gargoyles, boasting an expansive view of Mammon's lands. Beautiful might be a stretch, but at least it's not all fire and brimstone. ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715440)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-20 11:01 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Sorry Tech, Ava's never seen a vape pen before so you might as well be waving a magic wand around because that's what it looks to her. Not that she's going to let her confusion show on her face because she doesn't want to lose all the cool points she's been awarded by him so far, so she just nods like she knows exactly what Tech is holding. ]

It'd be cuter if you called me Supergirl. [ She points out, trying not to blush again when he describes her as cute (maybe if he calls her it enough times, she'll actually believe it one day).

Ava takes a moment to shake out her arms, sucking in a deep breath and releasing it. Relax, Ava, you've done this before. She's just never had to do in front of a guy she's maybe trying to impress. ]
I've gotta concentrate, so don't distract me.

[ After taking a good few steps back from the doors, she runs towards it, and the last thing Tech will see is the Halo glowing from her back - then she's on the other side. To her surprise, it's just some dusty old boardroom she's standing in, not a demon in sight. She still does some investigating before she lets Tech in though, not wanting to put him in any danger. It means Tech won't see her for at least a couple of minutes, and if he tries to talk to her through the door, she doesn't respond.

After spotting the balcony and deciding it's safe enough, Ava unlocks the room from the inside, opening one of the doors but only a fraction so he can see her smiley face through the gap. ]


Hi. [ She puts her hand out to stop him from coming in yet. ] What's the password?
twatter: ([ 271 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-21 02:14 pm (UTC)(link)
[ He holds up his hands, innocent, and takes a pointed step back. Look at him, not being a distraction. Being a complete non-distraction. Tech watches her draw away. It's a sight to see -- Ava running full blast toward the wall in her ballgown. He grimaces preemptively when she gets close to it, like she's about to crash upon impact -- but no. She goes through. And while someone else might have at least gasped in surprise, Tech has been used to seeing gods cut in and out of reality through the 'backstage.' This is actually a welcome sight.

So he waits. And waits. And waits even longer. And a part of him gets a little worried when she doesn't immediately open the door -- like maybe she had run into trouble. He steps toward the door, just about to knock and call out when it cracks open and she emerges, beaming at him in a way that causes his heart to catch because oh no. After swearing he'd never fall for anyone again, here he is -- being lured in by a pretty smile. Tech forces the thought away and rolls his eyes at the prompting for a password. ]


The password is, hurry up and open the door before I get fucking caught out here and have to fight some demons. Geesh.

[ But it's spoken with a smile. He's not annoyed in the least. ]
formerlydead: (Default)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-21 09:40 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Her mouth falls open in fake indignation at him. ] My god, you're demanding... Wait, not my god. [ She's gonna have to be think twice about certain godly phrases around him, isn't she? ] You know what I fucking mean.

[ And she's not the least bit annoyed by how rude he is, reaching for his collar to tug him inside. And just like how they left the ball hand in hand and hurried upstairs, her grabbing at his shirt to yank him into a private room is yet another gesture that makes this look more than it actually is to any onlooker.

She lets go of Tech to lock the door behind them (it'll give them some time to hide on the off-chance a demon decides to investigate the room they're in). ]


There were like, ten demons in here I got rid of before I let you in, just so you know—

[ And maybe she would have pulled off saying that if she hadn't just walked straight into a cobweb, letting out a surprised shriek as she tries to brush it off her face. At this rate, they're definitely going to get caught. ]
twatter: ([ 22 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-22 09:43 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Oh, he absolutely grins at that little slip up of hers. Language sure takes on a whole different meaning when talking to an actual god, doesn't it? My god. He wouldn't be opposed...

He staggers in when she pulls him and has a look around the room, curious if there's anything they can glean from it -- but it doesn't seem like it. Even the books are written in some demon language he can't translate. It sort of irks him to see something he doesn't know. There should be no knowledge out of the realm of the internet! ]


Did you?

[ His eyebrows raise as he plays along with her story of an intense battle. ]

Well, shit. You did it clean. Not a trace of blood or demon carcass in sight. You didn't even disturb the cobwebs.

[ Which he barely manages to say before laughing at her plight. He moves closer to pick a bit of webbing from her hair before veering past her with a few backwards steps. ]

C'mon. The balcony's calling our name.

[ And he heads out toward it, leaning comfortably against the rail as though he belongs there and there's not a damn demon who can say otherwise. His vape pen is removed from his pocket and pressed to his lips so he can draw in a drag. Then, he offers it in her direction. ]

Now we christen this space by partaking in the sacred herb. [ Wink. ]
formerlydead: (pic#14715504)

[personal profile] formerlydead 2021-07-23 10:51 pm (UTC)(link)
[ So much for being a badass - she just got owned by a cobweb. ] I feel like I just ate whatever made that. [ She comments on the taste in her mouth before following him out.

She leans against the railing as well, soaking up their surroundings from their vantage point. She can't quite believe where they are and maybe a part of her thinks she's actually lost her mind and Tech is an imaginary friend she made up and that's why they get along so well...

An imaginary friend she's about to get high with. She's so caught up in her head thinking (Tech will soon realize she does this a lot) about whether she's a nutjob or not that it takes her a moment to realize he's offering the "wand" to her. ]


...Ohhh. [ The realization upon her face once she understands what to do with the vape pen is, frankly, adorable. ] Cool. I've totally done this before. [ Said nobody who's ever done this before. She takes the vape pen from him and becomes acutely aware he's going to be watching her take her first drag ever. ]

Don't watch me do it, creep. [ If he looks away, maybe she can get away with making it look like this isn't her first time. (As if it wasn't obvious enough...) ]
twatter: ([ 262 ])

[personal profile] twatter 2021-07-26 01:50 am (UTC)(link)
Protein.

[ He teases after her remark about eating the maker of the web, but maybe she doesn't hear it because she sure looks like she's lost in space for a moment. Then she snaps out of it and his eyebrows raise skeptically when she proclaims she has totally done this before in the most unbelievable way possible. But hey, he doesn't mind being her first. He's pretty been been the cause of that experience for a lot of people in hell. Sucking on that vape pen is basically like kissing everyone in this place....

At her prompting, though, he doesn't look away. Instead, he moves beside her, hands on hers to guide her through it. ]


It's a little different from your standard joint -- tons more vapor. I mean, you could compare it to a bong, but in a more streamlined sort of way. Because this one's smaller, you're gonna suck on it like a straw, bring it into your mouth, then into your lungs, and then out. Should keep you from coughing if you do it right. And if you don't, I'm totally gonna judge you.

[ He smiles. ]

Just kidding, just kidding. But I might laugh a little.

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