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penancememes2022-04-26 01:52 am
penancemods) wrote in penancememes2022-04-26 01:52 am
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TEST DRIVE MEME #34
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 and nothingness consumes you for a second, And it seems to linger for a long time. There is nothing at all. It must be lonely. But it won’t be forever.
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.
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. They are urged forward to take a numbered ticket and wait their turn in the long line. As they're ushered forward through the corridor, their first stop will be to see Lilith, standing outside her office.
The woman in a smart suit and a friendly smile steps forward to greet sinners one by one. "I'm sorry for your rough landing. We've never gotten it quite as smooth as it was in the past. Please, let me see your hand--"
Once she has the sinner's hand, there's the warm, almost electric touch of magic that soothes away the aches and pains, heals the wound left behind on each sinner's palm. Lilith looks satisfied with her work and gives a nod. "There, all better. Please take your care package and continue on until you reach the stairs."
On their way out, sinners receive their 'package', a contract detailing all sins committed. If they look at the list closely enough they'll notice it's written with their blood. That explains the palm wound then. It's an old piece of parchment despite the freshly written letters upon it. They will also receive a slightly more modern smart phone. Think early generation Android and a pamphlet made by other sinners during their stay here with useful tips.
After that, sinners will be ushered on to a set of stairs where a guard waits. "Welcome to Penance," the demon says gruffly before motioning them on without an ounce of courtesy. "Don't hold up the line."
They seem to go on and wind forever, but eventually, they come upon what appears to be a lobby of a hotel. Once there, they will notice several shops and other areas around the front desk.
The demon at the front desk looks rather bored, but when sinners approach? He seems to snap to attention to offer whatever help they might need of him. He will at least direct to food or rooms to rest their wary bodies, or recommend sights to see around the hotel.
Stand Your Ground "Rise and shine, darling!" Lucifer's voice booms within everyone's minds one fine morning, and sinners will almost feel how infectious his good mood is. And what does he not have to feel good about? They've rescued sinners from Mammon's latest antics and now they can hopefully move on with their lives, without any further interference. "Those who have been here for a while will know that the annual Carnival is well on its way. This time, I would like to assure all of you that I have taken every utmost precaution to ensure it's a good event for everyone from beginning to end!"
"Regardless of what my father would like to see, I would like to reward all of you for standing at my side. All of you havedisplayed astounding bravery and care for your fellow sinners and demons alike. This deserves a reward in my book. So no torture, no pain, no zoos to be forced into... just a bit of fun and games. This time, the clowns have been told to mind their manners!"!
Some of the sinners who have been here since the beginning may feel their stomachs clench in fear at the mere thought of a carnival, but the atmosphere is... happy. Demons are being far kinder than they have been in the past, approaching with kinder requests to help. Some may get a little rough around the edges, may shove or criticize or look like they want to hit, but be patient! Hell is all they really know and those old habits die hard at times! They got the spirit at least...
To show their thanks, they're bringing out cans of Speed Energy again (can you guess the secret ingredient?) that will have sinners absolutely buzzing to help. Decorations need to be placed, rides need to be set, tables for vendors and games. It seems like the beginning of some sort of tunnel of love is being put together by Lilith and the sex demons...
Lucifer is even walking around personally supervising and checking in on sinners with enthusiam and warmth. There may be an air of nervousness about him -- he is technically disobeying God and they still haven't found Emmanuel, but he's putting on a brave face at least!
For those who'd rather opt out of manual labor, some of the succubi have set up lemonade stands. They're offering cups for kisses - and don't worry! They're inviting sinners to join in the fun and take over some of the stands!
There's also some late Spring Cleaning going on around the hotel and guests will find boxes of items left outside to rummage through that may include newer clothes, games, and other sources of entertainment. There may even be the odd weapon or two! Staff will not say no if anyone wants to give them a bit of a and with the cleaning and dusting either... it seems the large spiders have come back in to try to spin their webs and stay. Don't worry! Even though they may rival a chihuahua, these guys tend to be docile and friendly. Be careful you don't accidentally adopt a pet!
Reach Up High WARNINGS: blood, torture
"My dear guests!" Lucifer greets as sinners are led to a room with two seats and a table in between. They then will be made to sit by two burly demon escorts.
"What I am asking of you is rather simple... pick a sin from your contract, any sin, and explain how you got to that point. Simple enough, yes? Perhaps gaining a better understanding of what made you sin in the first place will clear a path into avoiding situations like this in the future, as well as form that all too important human connection that I'm told some of you are desperately needing. Please don't try to get out of it... I really would rather not punish you.".
And true to his word, so long as sinners comply and share what made them perform a sin on their list, they'll be let go. If, after five minutes, nothing has been shared, a headache will begin. The pain will gradually increase until it floods the body. Nosebleeds may begin to happen, so will bleeding out the ears or eyes. Eventually, a sinner may even lose a sense for a 24 hour period.
Is it really worth potentially going blind just to get out of a little bit of talking? Come now...
(Effects should begin 5 comments in and gradually worsen until sinners either give in or start to lose one of their senses. After this, they'll be released from the room regardless whether they complied or not)
Follow Me Down
Prompt I WARNINGS: Potentials for sex, aphrodisiacs, non/dub-con, etc.
Club Penance has decided to don a new theme for the night! The theme is lingerie. The staff now wear more modest lingerie reminiscent of the '50s. Elegant, pretty, tantalizing. Or maybe it's just the aphrodisiacs in the air and food that make one feel that way.
They are also insisting everyone else put on lingerie as well. Don't worry! It's not old fashioned and anything that suites your fancy will be available. Try to skip out? Guests will find it magically appear on them... and possibly not in the theme they'd choose for themselves. If magic fails, the staff or local demons may take it upon themselves to slip it on the poor sinner themselves.
Swinging is an event happening tonight. Put your key from Hotel Penance or Hellburbia into a hat, another sinner draws it out... whoever gets your key will be your lucky partner for the night for any kind of fun! Sinners may find their keys disappearing and appearing in the hat entirely without their knowledge... but staff will be very persistent about follow-through! There will be rooms available for fun in the Club, for those who'd rather not go back to their personal rooms.
Other than that, oddly enough tables have been set up for romantic dinners, private rooms are available for sexual activities (not all of these are vanilla. There are toys and machines and anything else one could want, including costumes or things to suit any fetish). There's also live entertainment in the form of dancing or sexual performances on stages around the club. Volunteers are more than welcome!
For those not partnered up, there's speed dating where demons will lead a prospective partner to your table for a little bit of a chat and a drink. They may not always get your tastes spot on, but hopefully it's entertaining for all involved! if sinners find their drinks seem to have a little extra aphrodisiac added to them, oh well. It was probably an honest mistake.
Those who are attached, either via Casino Styx or through other means may find themselves growing oddly loving or possessive of one another. Jealousy and the urge to claim their partner (even in public) will grow substantially throughout the night. While it may not always result in violence and instead be enthusiastically embraced by both parties, it may also result in the urge to leave marks or claim in darker ways. Collaring their partners, leaving their names, etc. They're yours and don't you want everyone to know that?
Alcohol does flow freely around the club and usual demonic drugs or party drugs are available on demand.
Prompt II WARNINGS: Alcohol and drug abuse, potential non-con/dub-con
With all the sinners, new and old, the hotel bar will be lit up with activity. Drinks will be readily available, there's food in the kitchens if anyone wants to bother serving it, music will be blaring whenever there's electricity, and overall, there will be an energy to the atmosphere that's absolutely contagious. Even if you aren't typically inclined to linger at these sorts of events there may be be a certain pull to stay and have a bit of fun.
You might not get much of a chance to have that in Hell, after all. One drink won't hurt, right? Nor will one more after that, and after that. Ah, sweet gluttony. Why not have a pastry next? There's some delectable sweets available just a few steps away. More of a meat person? Like things salty? Fear not, it looks like someone graciously brought all sorts of snacks and foodstuffs from the kitchens to the bar as the night progresses. Indulge! You deserve it.
Similar to Club Penance, the bar also has every sort of drug available that might tickle your fancy and some you've never heard of. There's no harm in experimenting, is there? You're already in Hell. The staff will offer to show anyone how to use the drugs or give advice for what to try if you tell them what you want to experience. Shockingly, they won't lie! Their advice is good word its just you might not have been exactly prepared for it.
There's a stage and a karaoke machine for those feeling brave or just wanting to torture people with some sweet, sweet renditions of The Devil Went Down to Georgia.
There are tables set up for all sorts of gambling and various bar games to entertain yourself with. Since currency as most are familiar with it doesn't quite exist down here, most of the demons seem to be accepting bits of your soul or offers to do chores around the hotel. You may also get pulled into a fun game of strip poker against one of your fellow guests for a few succubi that are having a night out.
Relax and enjoy your night. Coming here and facing your sins is the hard part, so surely you deserve to have a little fun.
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 or sample threads.
Thanks for clicking on our May TDM! 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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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 and nothingness consumes you for a second, And it seems to linger for a long time. There is nothing at all. It must be lonely. But it won’t be forever.
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.
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. They are urged forward to take a numbered ticket and wait their turn in the long line. As they're ushered forward through the corridor, their first stop will be to see Lilith, standing outside her office.
The woman in a smart suit and a friendly smile steps forward to greet sinners one by one. "I'm sorry for your rough landing. We've never gotten it quite as smooth as it was in the past. Please, let me see your hand--"
Once she has the sinner's hand, there's the warm, almost electric touch of magic that soothes away the aches and pains, heals the wound left behind on each sinner's palm. Lilith looks satisfied with her work and gives a nod. "There, all better. Please take your care package and continue on until you reach the stairs."
On their way out, sinners receive their 'package', a contract detailing all sins committed. If they look at the list closely enough they'll notice it's written with their blood. That explains the palm wound then. It's an old piece of parchment despite the freshly written letters upon it. They will also receive a slightly more modern smart phone. Think early generation Android and a pamphlet made by other sinners during their stay here with useful tips.
After that, sinners will be ushered on to a set of stairs where a guard waits. "Welcome to Penance," the demon says gruffly before motioning them on without an ounce of courtesy. "Don't hold up the line."
They seem to go on and wind forever, but eventually, they come upon what appears to be a lobby of a hotel. Once there, they will notice several shops and other areas around the front desk.
The demon at the front desk looks rather bored, but when sinners approach? He seems to snap to attention to offer whatever help they might need of him. He will at least direct to food or rooms to rest their wary bodies, or recommend sights to see around the hotel.
Stand Your Ground "Rise and shine, darling!" Lucifer's voice booms within everyone's minds one fine morning, and sinners will almost feel how infectious his good mood is. And what does he not have to feel good about? They've rescued sinners from Mammon's latest antics and now they can hopefully move on with their lives, without any further interference. "Those who have been here for a while will know that the annual Carnival is well on its way. This time, I would like to assure all of you that I have taken every utmost precaution to ensure it's a good event for everyone from beginning to end!"
"Regardless of what my father would like to see, I would like to reward all of you for standing at my side. All of you havedisplayed astounding bravery and care for your fellow sinners and demons alike. This deserves a reward in my book. So no torture, no pain, no zoos to be forced into... just a bit of fun and games. This time, the clowns have been told to mind their manners!"!
Some of the sinners who have been here since the beginning may feel their stomachs clench in fear at the mere thought of a carnival, but the atmosphere is... happy. Demons are being far kinder than they have been in the past, approaching with kinder requests to help. Some may get a little rough around the edges, may shove or criticize or look like they want to hit, but be patient! Hell is all they really know and those old habits die hard at times! They got the spirit at least...
To show their thanks, they're bringing out cans of Speed Energy again (can you guess the secret ingredient?) that will have sinners absolutely buzzing to help. Decorations need to be placed, rides need to be set, tables for vendors and games. It seems like the beginning of some sort of tunnel of love is being put together by Lilith and the sex demons...
Lucifer is even walking around personally supervising and checking in on sinners with enthusiam and warmth. There may be an air of nervousness about him -- he is technically disobeying God and they still haven't found Emmanuel, but he's putting on a brave face at least!
For those who'd rather opt out of manual labor, some of the succubi have set up lemonade stands. They're offering cups for kisses - and don't worry! They're inviting sinners to join in the fun and take over some of the stands!
There's also some late Spring Cleaning going on around the hotel and guests will find boxes of items left outside to rummage through that may include newer clothes, games, and other sources of entertainment. There may even be the odd weapon or two! Staff will not say no if anyone wants to give them a bit of a and with the cleaning and dusting either... it seems the large spiders have come back in to try to spin their webs and stay. Don't worry! Even though they may rival a chihuahua, these guys tend to be docile and friendly. Be careful you don't accidentally adopt a pet!
Reach Up High WARNINGS: blood, torture
"My dear guests!" Lucifer greets as sinners are led to a room with two seats and a table in between. They then will be made to sit by two burly demon escorts.
"What I am asking of you is rather simple... pick a sin from your contract, any sin, and explain how you got to that point. Simple enough, yes? Perhaps gaining a better understanding of what made you sin in the first place will clear a path into avoiding situations like this in the future, as well as form that all too important human connection that I'm told some of you are desperately needing. Please don't try to get out of it... I really would rather not punish you.".
And true to his word, so long as sinners comply and share what made them perform a sin on their list, they'll be let go. If, after five minutes, nothing has been shared, a headache will begin. The pain will gradually increase until it floods the body. Nosebleeds may begin to happen, so will bleeding out the ears or eyes. Eventually, a sinner may even lose a sense for a 24 hour period.
Is it really worth potentially going blind just to get out of a little bit of talking? Come now...
(Effects should begin 5 comments in and gradually worsen until sinners either give in or start to lose one of their senses. After this, they'll be released from the room regardless whether they complied or not)
Follow Me Down
Prompt I WARNINGS: Potentials for sex, aphrodisiacs, non/dub-con, etc.
Club Penance has decided to don a new theme for the night! The theme is lingerie. The staff now wear more modest lingerie reminiscent of the '50s. Elegant, pretty, tantalizing. Or maybe it's just the aphrodisiacs in the air and food that make one feel that way.
They are also insisting everyone else put on lingerie as well. Don't worry! It's not old fashioned and anything that suites your fancy will be available. Try to skip out? Guests will find it magically appear on them... and possibly not in the theme they'd choose for themselves. If magic fails, the staff or local demons may take it upon themselves to slip it on the poor sinner themselves.
Swinging is an event happening tonight. Put your key from Hotel Penance or Hellburbia into a hat, another sinner draws it out... whoever gets your key will be your lucky partner for the night for any kind of fun! Sinners may find their keys disappearing and appearing in the hat entirely without their knowledge... but staff will be very persistent about follow-through! There will be rooms available for fun in the Club, for those who'd rather not go back to their personal rooms.
Other than that, oddly enough tables have been set up for romantic dinners, private rooms are available for sexual activities (not all of these are vanilla. There are toys and machines and anything else one could want, including costumes or things to suit any fetish). There's also live entertainment in the form of dancing or sexual performances on stages around the club. Volunteers are more than welcome!
For those not partnered up, there's speed dating where demons will lead a prospective partner to your table for a little bit of a chat and a drink. They may not always get your tastes spot on, but hopefully it's entertaining for all involved! if sinners find their drinks seem to have a little extra aphrodisiac added to them, oh well. It was probably an honest mistake.
Those who are attached, either via Casino Styx or through other means may find themselves growing oddly loving or possessive of one another. Jealousy and the urge to claim their partner (even in public) will grow substantially throughout the night. While it may not always result in violence and instead be enthusiastically embraced by both parties, it may also result in the urge to leave marks or claim in darker ways. Collaring their partners, leaving their names, etc. They're yours and don't you want everyone to know that?
Alcohol does flow freely around the club and usual demonic drugs or party drugs are available on demand.
Prompt II WARNINGS: Alcohol and drug abuse, potential non-con/dub-con
With all the sinners, new and old, the hotel bar will be lit up with activity. Drinks will be readily available, there's food in the kitchens if anyone wants to bother serving it, music will be blaring whenever there's electricity, and overall, there will be an energy to the atmosphere that's absolutely contagious. Even if you aren't typically inclined to linger at these sorts of events there may be be a certain pull to stay and have a bit of fun.
You might not get much of a chance to have that in Hell, after all. One drink won't hurt, right? Nor will one more after that, and after that. Ah, sweet gluttony. Why not have a pastry next? There's some delectable sweets available just a few steps away. More of a meat person? Like things salty? Fear not, it looks like someone graciously brought all sorts of snacks and foodstuffs from the kitchens to the bar as the night progresses. Indulge! You deserve it.
Similar to Club Penance, the bar also has every sort of drug available that might tickle your fancy and some you've never heard of. There's no harm in experimenting, is there? You're already in Hell. The staff will offer to show anyone how to use the drugs or give advice for what to try if you tell them what you want to experience. Shockingly, they won't lie! Their advice is good word its just you might not have been exactly prepared for it.
There's a stage and a karaoke machine for those feeling brave or just wanting to torture people with some sweet, sweet renditions of The Devil Went Down to Georgia.
There are tables set up for all sorts of gambling and various bar games to entertain yourself with. Since currency as most are familiar with it doesn't quite exist down here, most of the demons seem to be accepting bits of your soul or offers to do chores around the hotel. You may also get pulled into a fun game of strip poker against one of your fellow guests for a few succubi that are having a night out.
Relax and enjoy your night. Coming here and facing your sins is the hard part, so surely you deserve to have a little fun.
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 or sample threads.
Thanks for clicking on our May TDM! 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
... Well, at least the Ojamas are not here to scream in his ears while he attempts to process this information, or else he might have an aneurysm. Which is its own problem he will force himself to worry about later, but for now he'll take it as a blessing in disguise as he brings a hand up to pinch the space between his eyes, fighting a headache regardless. It is very tempting to shout and swear from how angry he is over this ridiculous hand he's been dealt, but Manjoume Jun is a guy who tries to at least be semi-polite to most girls when he can.
Except for Rei, because fuck Rei for having had the gall to force him to room with Judai and his stupid friends in Slifer Red when she moved in.]
Okay. Normally I would think that this is complete bullshit, but luckily for you, I unfortunately have experience involving ending up in other worlds or dimensions before. So regrettably, I will have to consider that you are probably telling the truth about all that.
no subject
Honestly? You're taking this a lot better than I did. I chose violence when I first got here... sorta. And, hey. I know we just met, but, you can bet you're definitely safe as long as you're with me. This place is super dangerous, so I'll do my best to show you around and tell you what you need to know. Not everything is in that shitty pamphlet, a lot of it comes from experience. And I've been here nearly a year now, so I've got quite a bit.
[ This isn't something that should be done out in the open, though, and considering he's got some sort of connection to Kaiba... ]
So, Seto's got a cafe that he runs here, aptly named Kaife. [ Go figure, right? ] We should go there, I can make you some coffee or tea or something and explain stuff further. We might even run into him.
no subject
But a cafe is a better place to talk rather than standing around here chatting, so...]
Sounds like a plan. [Yeah, that sounds cool and collected enough coming from him here. Totally passable as a guy not panicking at all in any way.]
no subject
[ With that, Ann begins walking, crossing the street with the full intention of dragging the poor young man over to Kaife to better explain things. If they run into Seto, that's even better as far as she's concerned -- if they're from the same world, then Jun will be better off with people he may already know. ]
Oh! I'm Ann, by the way. Ann Takamaki. It's nice to meet you, although uh... I sure wish it wasn't here.
[ As they round the corner, she nearly bumps into a demon who goes out of his way to snap 'bitch' at her just as she reaches out and shoves it out of her way, continuing on like it's no big deal. ]
Anyways, we're not far from it now. It's not much, but Seto's doing his best with what he's been given.
[ Which is shit. It's ghetto as fuck and there's only one chair, but that's fine. Mostly. ]
...So, if you don't mind me asking, how long is your list? Mine wasn't too long, just had some kinda biggies on it.
no subject
[He has to assume that's what she's referring to, which he had looked at earlier... however, he had not gotten past even the first one written the top of the list, as upon noting what it was, he had shoved it deep into his coat rather than reading any further in a fit of anger.
But he shrugs instead of admitting to that, attempting to pretend he doesn't care that much about it.]
It's not that impressive. A lot of them I'd consider more like petty grievances than sins, but I guess anything goes if it's considered bad enough to warrant being down here.
no subject
[ She smiles as he talks, because yeah... she gets it. He's gonna be another person she's going to think about, sitting down here with a list full of bullshit. Another person whose going to end up pushing her rebellion agenda further without even realize what he's doing. For all she knows, maybe at some point once he's settled, he'll be an invaluable ally.
She intends on raising all Hell, quite literally, and she's going to need all the help she can get. But, this is something to pursue and think about later. ]
I have a few that probably warrant being stuck here, maybe like... two. Isn't there supposed to be purgatory for people who don't screw up too badly? Like, I get mass murder and shit. But seriously, come on...
[ Soon, the ever beaten up Kaife appears in her line of sight, and she points towards the small storefront. ]
There she is, in all of her splendor and glory. If we're lucky, it'll be just the two of us for a bit. The boss might be upstairs in his office... do you want me to check when we get there? I dunno if you want to see him or not, but I don't think he'd mind.
no subject
[It's said a bit too hasty for his liking, he realizes, as he then quickly tacks on--]
I don't want to bother him if he's busy.
[Not to mention that the second Kaiba hears his name, one of two things will probably happen: either Kaiba is going to be disgusted to hear the name of someone associated with the Manjoume Group having the gall to show up in his place of business, or it'll involve apathy, seeing it as a complete waste of time to meet a family member of a business rival.
Even if it is one of the students of his own school he founded.]
no subject
[ She also can't imagine he's slammed with work right now, instead he's probably wondering where the fuck she is and why she hasn't tried to come after the chair in his office yet today. To be fair, it's not her day to be there. She leads him across the street, and moves to the door, holding it open for him. ]
What sounds good to you to drink? I can make almost anything so long as we've got the stuff to make it with. There's another coffee place called Helluvacup that kinda takes all the good stuff from us, but uh. We don't really talk about that here. It triggers Seto. Not that he'll admit to that.
[ Once Jun is in, she circles in behind him, gesturing to the counter as she makes her way behind it. And as she'd earlier predicted, for now at least, it's just the two of them. ]
So, just FYI, there's not a lot of trustworthy food... places here. The demons do enjoy lacing things with drugs and other questionable things. Just... keep an open mind and keep an eye out. And do not take anything that the demons offer, believe me, it generally doesn't end well at all. Also, if they ever ask you to donate blood... don't do it.
no subject
[In fact, he gives a disgusted look at the mere thought of donating blood to any demons, let alone giving anything or taking anything from them in general. If he's learned anything from the amount of bullshit that's happened in the alternate dimension, or interacting with duel monsters in general, it's to not trust monsters as far as you can throw them most of the time.]
And, uh, coffee is fine with me. It doesn't have to be anything special.
[He is... not really used to people offering to be this particularly considerate to him, let alone any girl that isn't Asuka. As such, he's starting to feel more awkward than he already was before as he looks around the place.]
You weren't kidding about it not being much here, huh.
[... This is the nicest way he is managing to not compare it to a rundown shack or something otherwise insulting right off the bat.]
no subject
[ She's not going to elaborate further, because he's smart enough to not make the same mistake, and there's still coffee to be made. So, she sets about doing just that, getting some water to boil and starting to grind up the beans. What Jun says next, however, has her giggling as she bustles about behind the bar. ]
Nope. Every time we try to make improvements or get better things, Helluvacup gets in the way and takes everything. It doesn't help that that place has this adorable little mascot, Bean. Bean's a rat that they put in stupid costumes but it works, because it's cute... I keep telling Seto we need to dress his dragon up but he won't let me! Honestly, we'd definitely attract more girls in here at the very least. As a girl, I think I know what they like, and they definitely enjoy cute things.
[ Like rats in stupid bee costumes. One day, she'll get her way, but until that day comes, she's just going to have to grumble about stuffing a poor little dragon into adorable outfits. Soon, the smell of fresh coffee fills the small shop, and she pours it into a mug and slides it across towards Jun, along with some sugar and cream on the side. ]
One thing you can definitely count on here, though: our stuff isn't laced with a bunch of shit you definitely don't want in your body.
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[That is a disgusting health code violation screaming to be slammed down on the place, but given that this is Hell, he has a suspicion that they are able to get away with that here.
The mention of a dragon peaks Manjoume's interest, because really, she could be referring either to the duel monster spirit of one... or a literal actual dragon for all he knows. And he's not sure yet which one he's prepared to mentally handle just yet.]
Thanks.
[He accepts the coffee, but before he takes a sip, he realizes something important.]
I'm sorry, but I just realized that I didn't tell you my name earlier when you told me yours. [Which, isn't an unheard of type of rudeness coming from someone like him, but he'll correct it this time.] It's Jun Manjoume. Most people call me Manjoume-san though.
[... No they don't, but god he wishes they did instead of constantly showing him blatant disrespect when they use his name.]
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[ Maybe she's become desensitized to most of the disgusting bullshit down here... ]
Sure, no problem. And don't worry, you don't need to apologize. [ It is good to get a name, though, and she smiles again as she moves to make herself a glass full of something distinctively iced and overly sweetened: a vanilla latte. ] Well, it's very nice to meet you, Manjoume-san. Most people just call me Ann.
[ Mostly because she gave up the formalities ages ago when she first arrived. Besides, being just 'Ann' is a whole lot better than the names that were generally given to her by her classmates at home, even a year or so after the original 'incidents'. Old habits die hard for some people. ]
So, I have a stupid question, Manjoume-san. Can you fight? I ask only because I feel like it's a necessity down here on occasion, and if you can't, I'd be more than happy to help teach you. I have a friend who arrived not too long ago who I'm also trying to teach.
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It's nice to meet you too.
[He finds he actually means it too, just because of that one little thing. It's almost a shame those idiots he is reluctantly forced to admit are his friends aren't here to see it.
Almost, if only because A. They'd probably find some way to ruin the moment, and B. He may be a mean-spirited person, but he doesn't actually want them to show up here if this is really Hell.]
I've used my fists once or twice before, but almost any "fight" that I was in back home were typically settled with duels.
[... So that's a no, in regards to having any real fighting experience depending on how you wanna look at it.]
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I wish I could say it was like that here, but it's not. But if you're a duelist like Seto and the others, it means you're smart. And brains go a long way here, too. So, if you want, I'll help you with the brawn part of it. I've got a really bad feeling that shit's gonna hit the fan again sooner than later... so the easier it is for you to defend yourself, the better off you're going to be.
[ After she finishes making her iced concoction, she glances over to the stairs to make damn sure Kaiba's not coming down before she just sorta jumps up and sits on the bar, crossing her left leg over her right. Surely Seto wouldn't approve, but what he doesn't see or know doesn't hurt her. Or get her fired. ]
On that note, people typically don't stay dead here. That doesn't mean go all crazy of course, because death still hurts even if you come back, and there's really never any sure fire guarantee you're gonna come back. I haven't died yet, came close with that blood donation ordeal and one other time when a fog descended... but a few people I know have.
[ She takes a sip of her drink, pausing to swallow, before deciding to tack something else on that's pretty important: ]
Also, this place is going to try and force your hand into sinning. The more you sin, the more demonic you start to get, whether it be with features like sharp teeth or horns, or just... urges. I've been here close to a year and other than scars, I've been very careful to not... do anything that'll make me all sorts of demony. It's really not a cute look, you know?
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But hearing that they might have been other people like him, that he might essentially turn into one of those things himself is... not ideal.]
So try not to do anything that's on my list, or possibly add anything further onto my list.
[Okay... so much easier said than done.]
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[ She stirs her ridiculously sweet latte with her straw, staring down into it for a long few moments. ]
I know we don't know each other or anything, but you seem like a good person. It's not easy, and sometimes you're gonna have to make some really hard decisions... but do your best to stay the course. The less demonic you become, the more yourself you'll stay. I've seen too many people I've grown to care about down here becoming more and more demonic...
[ Kaiba being one, Monika, Atem. She frowns, and she squeezes the glass she's holding hard enough that if she's not careful, it's definitely going to break. ]
...anyways. There are ways to remove sins from your list, apparently. They're generally not fun, though, and you end up losing limbs or scarred up somehow. It's not worth it, in my opinion.
[ It's only then that she slowly eases her grip on the glass, heaving a deep sigh. ]
The hotel is generally safe, and that's where you're gonna be staying at first. I have a house now that I'm getting ready for my friends to eventually move into with me. It doesn't have the safety of the hotel, but in a way? It might be safer, because there's not nearly the prying eyes and ears. If you ever want to get away from the hotel or just need a place to hang out, you can come and stay with us. Or me, depending on if they decide to actually come and move in or not. You know what I mean. Either way, the offer's there if you ever need it.
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It probably helps that in the entire time he's been in this person's company, he hasn't had the Ojama brothers making inane commentary that only he can hear. So while that's a good thing, there's also been absolutely no distractions from the reality of the words being said, and that Manjoume Jun is utterly screwed in that he will likely have to deal with this situation more alone than ever before.
... Well, mostly alone. Ann seems to be rather kind, and maybe he'll get lucky with whatever duelists are also apparently here that can be worth relying on, but he isn't holding his breath on that one. He has never been that lucky, not once in his life.]
Okay... thanks. I'll keep that offer in mind.
[He forces his grip to ease up on the cup, because he's pretty sure if he breaks it, he is definitely not going to want to hear Seto Kaiba get angry about it.]
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[ Especially if he lays low for a while and gets a feel of the land, so to speak. She'll keep an extra eye out for him, and she's pretty sure that her friends and at least a few people from his world will, too. ]
How old are you? You look to be around high school age. I was a third year student myself before... y'know.
[ She drags a finger across her throat, shrugging. ]
You don't have to tell me if you don't want to, though.
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Seventeen... unless it's August now and I somehow didn't notice, in which case I'll be eighteen.
[He has no idea if time moves faster down here and if there was some sort of gap of something he's forgotten between his death and his arrival in Hell.]
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[ So far, adulthood really fucking sucks. More than it would in life, she thinks. She's certainly got a shit ton more responsibilities down here, more people she's responsible for and more things in general, than she ever wanted... but. Well. At least it keeps things interesting for the most part. There's never a day where she isn't busy doing something or helping someone or plotting a big ass rebellion. ]
Speaking of time, uh, this is gonna sound really weird but my friends who came from my world? Are from like... a year before the things I remember. I'm from their future, which is super shitty because whenever I try to tell them about something at home, they have no idea what I'm talking about. So if you bump into one of your friends and they're super confused, just... know that's a thing that can happen.
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[Oh... in that case...]
In other words, there's a chance that Seto Kaiba will have not heard of me or even my school.
[Depending on just how far into the future we might be coming from for him?? That is a wild thought to have put in front of us now.]
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[ Whether that's a good thing or not, she will, Jun. :) ]
Yeah. How old do you think he is from where you're from? 'Cause he's like a year or two older than me at the moment.
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[Jun has not actually had the opportunity meet Seto Kaiba in person before now, as the Manjoume Group did not exactly want the youngest member of their family meeting the guy until he actually had something worth bragging about, as far as they were concerned.]
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[ She's one of the few fortunate enough to be in his inner circle, she gets to see him on a daily basis and have stupid arguments and conversations about whatever. She's seen him at his best, and at his unfortunate worst, and she's seen him in between, too. ]
He's a good person, too. And part of the reason why I'm still sane, honestly. People like him make it easier to navigate the darkness around here, and to know when to do the right thing.
[ Like take down the oppressors. But Jun doesn't need to know about that, not right now at least. ]
He definitely makes this place a lot more bearable. I'm gonna assume you haven't had the pleasure of meeting him in person at home?
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[... Unless they have somehow lied about having done so, but he doesn't see a reason that they would have done so. He knows their father at least definitely did, since he's the head of the family and had to have been there during whatever business dealings were happening between the two groups.]
I've only seen him on TV or on stage at whatever events he attended that Kaibacorp was promoting.
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