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penancememes2022-10-23 04:27 pm
penancemods) wrote in penancememes2022-10-23 04:27 pm
Entry tags:
TEST DRIVE MEME #40
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 cruise ship.
The demon stationed outsid the entrance 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 ways to spend their time while they reach new lands. Sorry about the confusion, Hell is just undergoing some rather unhappy changes.
Stand Your Ground The Penance Community is gone. Lilith made the tough call to abandon the community and urged sinners to save both Lucifer and Barbas along the way. Everyone who arrives will appear on the ship itself after stepping through the door, regardless of where it is in the waters. There may be a bit of disorientation at first, having to travel what may be a fair distance and the residual magic of Lilith’s touch, but it will fade quickly. Don’t worry, sinners!
They are safe on the waters. The icy, icy waters that appear as if they shouldn't be navigable at all. That's possibly a bit concerning, isn't it? There's also snow falling from the skies and frozen spirits that desperately scratch at the sides of the ship to climb aboard. They're used to the boiling waters of blood, not ice. Listen carefully, you can hear their whispers of confusion and desperation. "Why is it so cold?" they ask. "We hurt!" they howl. The staff busying themselves around the ship insist it's best to not concern oneself with it too much. It's like a vacation for them, really. Best worry about yourself.
Blankets are available on request, as well as warm clothes. Not all of these items will be... modern, maybe, but they will at least keep you warm. Hot chocolate, teas, and coffees are also being handed out freely by staff in an attempt to combat the freezing temperatures.
Lucifer may be spotted around the ship, looking rather wary but up and about again at least. He's quick to reassure everyone that Mammon will be giving them aid again and that they're heading to some absolutely beautiful lands. Perhaps sinners who are familiar with them will give them a recount of what it was truly like from the last visit.
The Voyage The large luxury ship is painted a rather ominous black, giving it an intimidating feel on the outside. Once boarded, sinners will see that this initial feeling is likely unfounded. There are plenty of luxuries anyone could want, including a pool, a hot tub, and plenty of tropical drinks with tiny umbrellas provided free of charge. And that's just the deck! Bedrooms range from four person units, three person units, to couples' beds for those who wish to continue their matrimony (or who would rather avoid the hassle of potentially being paired with someone entirely new for the time being).
Not only that, but there's plenty of festive decorations saved from the hotel! Ranging from Jack O'Lanterns to spooky fake skeletons to inflatable witches, and anything in between. Just because tragedy has struck doesn't mean that the holiday spirit has disappeared! People need something to keep them distracted now, more than ever. The staff is happy to (try to) provide this.
There's also a grand bar that provides plenty of cider, mead, and ale, whiskeys from Mammon's own personal stock. These drinks range in strength and may land even the most resilient on the ground after a few sips if one isn't careful! Additionally, the drinks seem to inspire a feel good mood and chase away the dourness that seems to have settled over those in the Penance community. There's constant music playing that may inspire those around to dance, as well as rather hungry incubi and succubi wandering around. They seem eager to please in any and all ways and, like in Penance, give off a natural aphrodisiac that smells sweet to the senses.
There's also a theatre for those who may prefer to watch some festive movies (Enjoy this! There won't be any such things once sinners arrive in Mammon's domain!), an arcade for the younger crowd, and a lovely spa with saunas, massages, and any other way to treat oneself. Happy endings may be included.
The kitchens are always open and offer an array of decadent desserts, meats, vegetables, and anything else one could want. No request is too much! And don't worry, nothing is drugged or of questionable quality or origin (that one would recognize).
Reach Up High There are two methods for earning a sin removal this time around, and none of them are painful! Very painful, at the very least.
The first option is to find a way to warm the spirits who enter the ship, whether this means cuddling the spirits and sacrificing your own warmth, or finding alternative means by wrapping them in blankets or offering them warm drinks while they have the energy to make themselves solid enough to hold items. Showing kindness to those damned to eternal suffering will certainly earn some points with God.
The second option involves volunteering to watch Barbas from his cage in the lower decks of the Hell ship. Bonus points for maintaining patience and kindness even with one of Hell’s least favorite Lords.
Follow Me Down
Prompt I Lucifer is asking all sinners and demons alike to give something valuable (whether it's valuable in an actual monetary sense or just to the owner) to present to Mammon as a gift. They need to sway his favor back towards them, Lucifer insists, and gifts are the way to go. Mammon functions on greed and a love of all things unique. Items can be listed here. Those who are generous may receive special favor once they reach Mammon's lands, either in the form of special dinners, pampering, or more comfortable rooms, etc.
The second request is to kidnap the spirits climbing aboard and seeking warmth. While these guys just want to cuddle a bit or curl up next to the fires to try to chase the cold that somehow penetrates even their undead, incorporeal forms, they’re also a precious source of energy that Mammon will appreciate. While sinners are allowed to show kindness towards the spirits (much to the dismay of the staff), they will also be given bottles to capture them, also as gifts to bestow upon Mammon.
Please note that doing either of these will result in the sin of bribery and potentially betrayal being added to your list of sins.
Prompt II WARNINGS: dubcon, aphrodisiacs, body transformations, drug use, alcohol
That isn't the end of the festivities either! Not at all. The demonic staff has orchestrated a bit of fun to distract from the cold and sense of impending doom hanging in the air by way of trick or treating. Sinners will be grabbed up by eager demons and led cabin to cabin to trick or treat. Those answering the door may choose either option! Treats may be in the form of candy, booze, or other trinkets or whatever one may consider a 'treat', and if a trick is chosen? Well, if you've just set yourself up for a little bit of a prank, haven't you? Good luck trying to figure out ways to appease the eager demons wanting a show! They just want to know they're appreciated, you know. Things have been rough.
For those who aren't terribly interested in any such thing, the staff has also decided on the perfect way to deal with any residual ghost trauma... which is telling ghost stories, of course. On the deck, there's been a special place set up with a fire pit (don't worry, it's being carefully watched! Last thing they need is a fire on the ship...) and blankets. There's also an array of food and drink while the goblins formerly of the library urge sinners to gather around for some story time. Sinners may listen to the goblins or share their own encounters with the spirits.
While they hardly managed to save much in the way of costumes, there's even an impromptu costume competition going on for those who may wish to try to piece together something from what odds and ends did make it to the ship. Voting will be done via sinners and rewards will be in the form of candies. Actual candy, don't worry! The barista from Helluvacup will also be out and about with Bean to spread cheer in the form of Halloween themed pastries and coffees with little spiders drawn in the foam (that may or may not look like spiders. Don't criticize him! Bean will protect his master with lovely disease-ridden bites.)
Of course, for all the well-intentioned shenanigans of the staff, the succubi and incubi are adding their own twist to things. Some have decided to taint the chocolates to add additional energy in the air. Once again, the sex demons feel as if they're famished with the lack of energy and they're doing their best to makeup for it... whether the sinners are aware of it or not. These chocolates the devilish incubi and succubi pass out will have a multitude of effects:
In addition, the sex demons will urge sinners in keeping each other warm in any sense of the word. What better ways than sharing some body heat? Or maybe adding a bit of candleplay to the mix...
If none of that tickles your fancy, there are also a wealth of drugs available to partake in, as well as a fight night happening below deck on one of the lower levels. Fights are carried out among sinners and demons alike, with plenty of help standing by to patch those injured up. Those partaking in either watching or actively participating may swap sins as bets, or anything else they may be willing to risk losing.
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 November 1st app round! As always, potential appers and characters already in game are welcomed to jump right in! This TDM counts as an additional game event as well as game canon for those coming into the game. If you app and are accepted, TDM tags become game canon and can be used for AC! Please have fun and don't hesitate to ask any questions you might have down below.
If you have questions, comments, suggestions, etc., go here.
Navigation
| Premise
| Arrival
| FAQ
Rules | Taken | Reserves | Applications
Network | Logs | OOC | Memes
It may seem like a nightmare at first, despite all of that. Full of hellfire nipping at your skin and a sensation of being pulled down no matter how much you struggle or cry for help. Wretched, unseen hands pull at you, grip tight at your body, tighten on your throat, skeletal fingers grab at your face, slide in your mouth and jab at your eyes as they struggle for purchase. It feels like for a moment, they may snap your neck as they tug and pull. The more you resist, the more phantom hands are added to your struggling body.
It feels like they could tear you apart if you let them. The only thing to do is to let go and stop fighting.
And so you do.
Darkness 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 cruise ship.
The demon stationed outsid the entrance 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 ways to spend their time while they reach new lands. Sorry about the confusion, Hell is just undergoing some rather unhappy changes.
Stand Your Ground The Penance Community is gone. Lilith made the tough call to abandon the community and urged sinners to save both Lucifer and Barbas along the way. Everyone who arrives will appear on the ship itself after stepping through the door, regardless of where it is in the waters. There may be a bit of disorientation at first, having to travel what may be a fair distance and the residual magic of Lilith’s touch, but it will fade quickly. Don’t worry, sinners!
They are safe on the waters. The icy, icy waters that appear as if they shouldn't be navigable at all. That's possibly a bit concerning, isn't it? There's also snow falling from the skies and frozen spirits that desperately scratch at the sides of the ship to climb aboard. They're used to the boiling waters of blood, not ice. Listen carefully, you can hear their whispers of confusion and desperation. "Why is it so cold?" they ask. "We hurt!" they howl. The staff busying themselves around the ship insist it's best to not concern oneself with it too much. It's like a vacation for them, really. Best worry about yourself.
Blankets are available on request, as well as warm clothes. Not all of these items will be... modern, maybe, but they will at least keep you warm. Hot chocolate, teas, and coffees are also being handed out freely by staff in an attempt to combat the freezing temperatures.
Lucifer may be spotted around the ship, looking rather wary but up and about again at least. He's quick to reassure everyone that Mammon will be giving them aid again and that they're heading to some absolutely beautiful lands. Perhaps sinners who are familiar with them will give them a recount of what it was truly like from the last visit.
The Voyage The large luxury ship is painted a rather ominous black, giving it an intimidating feel on the outside. Once boarded, sinners will see that this initial feeling is likely unfounded. There are plenty of luxuries anyone could want, including a pool, a hot tub, and plenty of tropical drinks with tiny umbrellas provided free of charge. And that's just the deck! Bedrooms range from four person units, three person units, to couples' beds for those who wish to continue their matrimony (or who would rather avoid the hassle of potentially being paired with someone entirely new for the time being).
Not only that, but there's plenty of festive decorations saved from the hotel! Ranging from Jack O'Lanterns to spooky fake skeletons to inflatable witches, and anything in between. Just because tragedy has struck doesn't mean that the holiday spirit has disappeared! People need something to keep them distracted now, more than ever. The staff is happy to (try to) provide this.
There's also a grand bar that provides plenty of cider, mead, and ale, whiskeys from Mammon's own personal stock. These drinks range in strength and may land even the most resilient on the ground after a few sips if one isn't careful! Additionally, the drinks seem to inspire a feel good mood and chase away the dourness that seems to have settled over those in the Penance community. There's constant music playing that may inspire those around to dance, as well as rather hungry incubi and succubi wandering around. They seem eager to please in any and all ways and, like in Penance, give off a natural aphrodisiac that smells sweet to the senses.
There's also a theatre for those who may prefer to watch some festive movies (Enjoy this! There won't be any such things once sinners arrive in Mammon's domain!), an arcade for the younger crowd, and a lovely spa with saunas, massages, and any other way to treat oneself. Happy endings may be included.
The kitchens are always open and offer an array of decadent desserts, meats, vegetables, and anything else one could want. No request is too much! And don't worry, nothing is drugged or of questionable quality or origin (that one would recognize).
Reach Up High There are two methods for earning a sin removal this time around, and none of them are painful! Very painful, at the very least.
The first option is to find a way to warm the spirits who enter the ship, whether this means cuddling the spirits and sacrificing your own warmth, or finding alternative means by wrapping them in blankets or offering them warm drinks while they have the energy to make themselves solid enough to hold items. Showing kindness to those damned to eternal suffering will certainly earn some points with God.
The second option involves volunteering to watch Barbas from his cage in the lower decks of the Hell ship. Bonus points for maintaining patience and kindness even with one of Hell’s least favorite Lords.
Follow Me Down
Prompt I Lucifer is asking all sinners and demons alike to give something valuable (whether it's valuable in an actual monetary sense or just to the owner) to present to Mammon as a gift. They need to sway his favor back towards them, Lucifer insists, and gifts are the way to go. Mammon functions on greed and a love of all things unique. Items can be listed here. Those who are generous may receive special favor once they reach Mammon's lands, either in the form of special dinners, pampering, or more comfortable rooms, etc.
The second request is to kidnap the spirits climbing aboard and seeking warmth. While these guys just want to cuddle a bit or curl up next to the fires to try to chase the cold that somehow penetrates even their undead, incorporeal forms, they’re also a precious source of energy that Mammon will appreciate. While sinners are allowed to show kindness towards the spirits (much to the dismay of the staff), they will also be given bottles to capture them, also as gifts to bestow upon Mammon.
Please note that doing either of these will result in the sin of bribery and potentially betrayal being added to your list of sins.
Prompt II WARNINGS: dubcon, aphrodisiacs, body transformations, drug use, alcohol
That isn't the end of the festivities either! Not at all. The demonic staff has orchestrated a bit of fun to distract from the cold and sense of impending doom hanging in the air by way of trick or treating. Sinners will be grabbed up by eager demons and led cabin to cabin to trick or treat. Those answering the door may choose either option! Treats may be in the form of candy, booze, or other trinkets or whatever one may consider a 'treat', and if a trick is chosen? Well, if you've just set yourself up for a little bit of a prank, haven't you? Good luck trying to figure out ways to appease the eager demons wanting a show! They just want to know they're appreciated, you know. Things have been rough.
For those who aren't terribly interested in any such thing, the staff has also decided on the perfect way to deal with any residual ghost trauma... which is telling ghost stories, of course. On the deck, there's been a special place set up with a fire pit (don't worry, it's being carefully watched! Last thing they need is a fire on the ship...) and blankets. There's also an array of food and drink while the goblins formerly of the library urge sinners to gather around for some story time. Sinners may listen to the goblins or share their own encounters with the spirits.
While they hardly managed to save much in the way of costumes, there's even an impromptu costume competition going on for those who may wish to try to piece together something from what odds and ends did make it to the ship. Voting will be done via sinners and rewards will be in the form of candies. Actual candy, don't worry! The barista from Helluvacup will also be out and about with Bean to spread cheer in the form of Halloween themed pastries and coffees with little spiders drawn in the foam (that may or may not look like spiders. Don't criticize him! Bean will protect his master with lovely disease-ridden bites.)
Of course, for all the well-intentioned shenanigans of the staff, the succubi and incubi are adding their own twist to things. Some have decided to taint the chocolates to add additional energy in the air. Once again, the sex demons feel as if they're famished with the lack of energy and they're doing their best to makeup for it... whether the sinners are aware of it or not. These chocolates the devilish incubi and succubi pass out will have a multitude of effects:
Milk Chocolate - inspires lust so strong, one cannot control it. It may lead to begging or public displays of self-pleasure.At least the succubi and incubi are being cordial enough to lead sinners off to a private area of the ship they've filled with plush cushions and bedding for the fun... mostly.
Dark Chocolate - inspires the urge to dominate and aggression. It's time to take control and take what you want.
Chocolate covered cherries - inspire the urge to be submissive and the urge to please those around, in multiples if possible.
Chocolates filled with liqueurs - Inspires loose lips. Suddenly, the most appalling filth will be falling from your lips, every filthy desire there that you've kept hidden is now out in the open. How will others react?
Mint chocolate - May inspire transformations. Whether this is of the animalistic variety or sex, it is entirely up in the air. All of these effects can absolutely be mixed. Take as many chocolates as you like!
In addition, the sex demons will urge sinners in keeping each other warm in any sense of the word. What better ways than sharing some body heat? Or maybe adding a bit of candleplay to the mix...
If none of that tickles your fancy, there are also a wealth of drugs available to partake in, as well as a fight night happening below deck on one of the lower levels. Fights are carried out among sinners and demons alike, with plenty of help standing by to patch those injured up. Those partaking in either watching or actively participating may swap sins as bets, or anything else they may be willing to risk losing.
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 November 1st app round! As always, potential appers and characters already in game are welcomed to jump right in! This TDM counts as an additional game event as well as game canon for those coming into the game. If you app and are accepted, TDM tags become game canon and can be used for AC! Please have fun and don't hesitate to ask any questions you might have down below.
If you have questions, comments, suggestions, etc., go here.
Rules | Taken | Reserves | Applications
Network | Logs | OOC | Memes
no subject
Looks can be deceiving. She already knew that, but it's nice to have confirmation.
She orders a coffee for herself -- black, of course, like any good hipster, and then slides onto the lounge with the spirit in tow as soon as they get here. And of course, she notices the height difference. It would be significant enough to be noticeable even if she were barefoot, but with her clunky heeled boots on, the artificial boost she's getting makes it even more obvious. Nice he's not bothered by it, though. Jane respects that, but she still makes a mental note to take advantage of it later. Short people only exist so you can dangle things over their heads and put stuff on shelves too high for them to reach. Duh.
Once they're sitting down, she lets the spirit slip off of her a little so that it's cuddled up next to her, so that Nacho can sit on the other side of it and they can keep it in between them.
Once he sits down, too, she reaches out to take the mug ]
Well, it's nice to meet you, Ignacio. [ She takes a sip of her coffee. ] Thanks for not letting me die earlier. I mean, a second time. So where you from?
[ She glances at the spirit nestled in between them and takes one of its little hands in hers, rubbing gently. ]
Hey, you think he'd want a cigarette? [ Jane can't tell if the spirit is a boy or a girl, but calling it an 'it' just feels wrong. So she just picks one and runs with it. ] Maybe the fire might remind him of home...
no subject
Same, and you're welcome. It doesn't stick here but it still hurts, even after you've come back.
[ The resurrection hangover is no joke, he's felt it. Nacho shakes his head a little at the memory and sips his coffee before answering her first question. ]
New Mexico. [ Then he glances to the spirit again. ] You ever smoke? [ No answer... 'he' might not remember his life. ] Light one and see if he takes it, I guess.
no subject
She sips from her cup, slurping up the dark bitter liquid as she finally looks up from the little spirit to meet his gaze. Her brown eyes peer at him under long lashes. ]
Sucks? Like, sucks how? That's kinda vague.
[ His answer to the question about where he's from catches her attention more for its vagueness than its similarity to her own answer. She doesn't even bother to say, 'Me too.' ]
And that's kinda vague, too. But hey, I get it. Not my business. [ She's just making conversation, after all. She doesn't want to make him uncomfortable by probing too much...
Especially because the only thing cuter than a tiny spirit drinking tea, is Nacho talking to a tiny spirit drinking tea. Oh God. He looks like a career felon but at least so far, acts more like a guard dog. She needs to introduce Jesse to him later. She's pretty sure they'd get along great. ]
[ She takes his advice and momentarily releases the little spirit's hands. She takes off one boot, empty a pack of cigarettes and a lighter out of it. She grabs them both, lighting up a cigarette and holding it out for the spirit to take, if 'he' wants to. ] Well, little fella? What do you think?
[ Looks back up at Nacho. ] What about you? Smoke?
no subject
I didn't mean to be. Coming back's like the worst hangover of your life, except it lasts a few days. At least you don't usually keep the scars from whatever killed you.
[ As for himself? Jane's instincts are dead on, not that he knows what she's thinking. But he doesn't see any harm in being more specific with her, either. Once he answers the new question. ]
Sometimes, lately. I made a friend awhile ago who's always got some on him.
[ Nacho reaches over to pluck the cigarette from her fingers -- his own are much warmer now -- and lifts it to his lips to take a drag. He turns his head and blows it away from them, so the spirit can see the cloud of smoke, then offers it again himself. This time a tiny hand reaches out to take it. There's no sign 'he' can inhale, but the motions are happening as if their little buddy is trying. ]
Might've just needed a reminder... and you can ask me whatever you want. I'm from Albuquerque.
no subject
He might not be being cagey, but she is, even though she really doesn't have any reason to be. Just a habit.. She blushes at the eyebrow quirk, like she got caught. ]
Sorry. Uh. I didn't mean to accuse, I just -- uh... I'm just used to getting asked a lot of questions I don't want to answer. Sometimes. I mean, me, personally.
So I thought maybe you were too. But I'm woman enough to admit when I'm making unfair assumptions. So. Sorry.
[ Well, damn, how do you even defend yourself from that? He seems so sincere, too. Maybe she just needs to be more trusting...
...in Hell? Yeah, sure. That would end great. ]
Kinda nice to think you can still make friends even in Hell. Goes to show that there is hope for mankind after all, or something like that. [ She watches the spirit drip ash on the blanket and the lounge, the cigarette just slowly burning away rather than being smoked.
She pulls out two more cigarettes, one for her, one for him. ]
Wait! For real? Me too. Small world.
no subject
Because yeah... you can still make friends in Hell. You're just probably gonna lose them, so you've gotta brace for that. Or you wind up hollowed out, like he feels these days.
Jane's apology gets a little nod of acceptance, but he huffs at the hope for mankind bit. ]
That's up for debate. Literally, sometimes, we're just not the ones who get to make the case.
[ It's a lot to get into right now, though. And even if he knew where to start with that explanation, hearing that Jane's also from ABQ has Nacho going almost unnaturally (and absolutely unnervingly) still.
Shit. You've got some fucking timing, Jane. ]
...getting smaller every day.
no subject
What, you mean like they put us on trial here? Isn't that whole This Was Your Life-style trial-for-the-damned thing kinda played out? [ Once Nacho takes the cigarette she offered him, Jane will set down her half-drank coffee on the floor and then light up her cigarette. Then his, assuming he still wants it. ] Between this and all the jokes I could make about cruise ships, Hell's really not very inventive. So disappointing.
[ His comment about '...smaller every day' stops her in her metaphorical tracks, though. She cocks her head every so slightly in curiosity and grows a little more outwardly serious. ]
...how so?
no subject
Nah, we're not on trial. We're already damned. That isn't what I meant by hope for humanity... the debate's over whether or not we can earn redemption. This level of Hell is supposedly Lucifer's pet project. He thinks we can be better, God says we can't, so we play the game until they have proof one way or another. If you believe that line.
[ Nacho's not sure he does anymore, but there are so many strings being pulled around here it isn't so simple as God vs Lucifer. It's also Mammon, Barbas, Asmodeous, Emmanuel, the Veiled Order, an utter clusterfuck of string pullers and they're all puppets. Damned fucking puppets.
And now Jane's one of them.
He finally looks back at her, expression still neutral but eyes incredibly sad. ]
You know a guy named Jesse Pinkman, don't you, Jane?
no subject
Wait, God says we can't? Isn't it supposed to be the other way around? [ She takes another drag of her cigarette, contemplating his words. 'If you believe that.' ] Mmm. So, do you believe it?
[ The sad look in his eyes makes something inside her chest want to burst. It's a sadness that cuts deep into her soul, just from the look of him. Man, she thinks. Looks like Hell really does a number on people after all. Of course, it is Hell. What was she expecting?
When he mentions Jesse, though, Jane blushes. And squirms, jostling the spirit between them. Briefly she avoids eye contact and looks at the floor. ]
Yeah. Actually. Yeah, I do. He's my--- um, my boyfriend [ there's a question mark that Nacho can probably hear following that title ]--- or something--- look, I don't really know how that kind of thing works in Hell. I'm betting nobody here is real big on monogamy. [ Deep breath. ]
How do you know Jesse?
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Maybe. It's complicated.
[ Explaining how he knows Jesse is much easier, especially now that she's glanced away from him again to be bashful. Which is cute. It is. And they're probably even cuter together, but that just makes Nacho's chest ache. Hell doesn't let anybody just be happy. Bad enough she's here, worse that they're not gonna be able to protect each other... and that things will just end in more loss in the end.
He was definitely an idiot for falling in love in Hell. But is it better or worse, having somebody you loved in life here with you? Should you just hold on to what you have while it exists, or close yourself off? As someone who's taken both paths, Nacho doesn't know anymore.
Another drag, and he actually answers. ]
We met here. Figured out pretty quickly we'd known some of the same people back home. He's mentioned you -- and missing you -- but Jane's just a name so I didn't assume. [ Fucking Albuquerque. He was alone here for so long, and now Hell's crawling with locals. Right when he'd given up on everything. His voice turns a little bitter, almost angry. ] Should've known. There's no coincidences in Hell.
[ And he catches that tone, course corrects back to something softer. ]
You're not wrong, exactly. About how it works. But you can have commitment. There's even benefits, if you're willing to get married so you're not sinning more for being with somebody. It's just that if you want monogamy you're gonna have to tweak the definition or it's doomed. You're both gonna wind up being with other people. [ Oh. Actually, he should probably mention this now, huh? ] For the record, we've fucked around.
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Now that she's dead, those thoughts are pushed even more to the forefront.
When he says Jane is 'just a name', she shrugs and takes a drag of her own cigarette. ]
Yeah. I mean, I get it. 'Jane' is a common one. [ She considers what he says thoughtfully. ] Weird that you knew the same people but only met here. That tracks, though. Jesse never mentioned an Ignacio. [ Not that Jesse was always open with her about his life, especially when they first met, before she knew what he did. Still. ]
[ When he says that there are no coincidences in Hell, she nods a little, takes a drag, and exhales smoke through her nose. She's barely been here that long but somehow that makes sense to her just, like, intuitively. ] You ever read 'No Exit?' [ She's going somewhere with this, Nacho. Trust her. ]
[ ...Wait. Is the spirit sleeping against them, nestled under its blanket? ...Can spirits sleep? Who knows.
She's a little relieved when his tone softens without fully knowing why. And then she rolls her eyes. It's not directed at him, necessarily, it's just a kneejerk reaction. ] Wait, so it's a sin just to be with somebody? That's stupid. [ She pointedly does not acknowledge what he said about marriage, but she blushes again. Not that she's thinking about marriage now-- she and Jesse weren't together long enough on Earth to consider that kind of commitment-- and she's not sure she believes in marriage anyway. Jane has always considered marriage outdated and patriarchal, quite frankly.
And yet. And yet. Brief flashes of rings and flowers creep into her mind, unbidden.
It's a weird relief when what Nacho says next stuns her out of her unwanted daydreams. She actually does look directly at him, eyes wide. Completely stunned. She didn't think Jesse swang both ways. It's not a problem for her if he does, of course; she just didn't expect it. ]
Wait? What? [ She gestures towards Nacho with a finger, up and down from his face to where his legs and the blanket covering him meet the couch. ] You and---?
[ She's quiet for several seconds before Jane says only one word: ]
Hot.
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[ That's really the latest they could've met and Jesse would've still been in high school. Nacho ashes his cigarette in one of the side table trays and shakes his head at having read that title. ]
That a novel? The only book around here that gets referenced much is the Bible.
[ Which also answers her question about sex outside of marriage, in a sideways fashion. He also thinks it's stupid, but. You know. Times change, religion doesn't usually adapt.
He nearly chokes on a lungful of smoke when Jane processes his comment and tosses that reaction back, though. Quickly turning away to exhale it in a huff is really the only option, because congratulations... it's been a while since Nacho actually laughed. The sound is warm and amused and genuine, and he turns back to her with a broad grin. ]
Probably not as far as you're thinking. But that's a good reaction.
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[ She sighs a little. And squints at nothing. ] I'm not saying it's like that here. Jesse could never-- I mean, I don't think any of us are here to make each other miserable. But... I don't know, if what you're saying is true, maybe they take people from when and where they want to make everyone as unhappy as possible.
[ Deep down, she can't bring herself to believe that though. Being here with Jesse seems like a miracle. Getting a second chance to do things right seems like a miracle. And she does want to do better; does want to do things right this time.
Maybe not God's version of right, or Lucifer's. But hers.
When he laughs, though, she can't help but feel gratified. She grins back even as she whacks him lightly on the shoulder, barely hard enough to feel it, let alone hurt. ]
Shut up. You have no idea "how far" I'm thinking. [ But she smiles as she, too, snuffs out her cigarette. Slightly huffy, but still grinning, on a childish spiteful impulse, once the cigarette is extinguished she reaches over the quieted spirit to tickle his side, if he doesn't stop her first. ] Asshole. No wonder you and Jesse are friends.
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He's still turning the idea around to consider it when Jane swats and scolds him, which just earns her another warm laugh. That was the most affectionate sounding "asshole" he's ever heard. ]
No wonder? [ His grin and voice both soften with fondness. ] He's a good friend. And I might be getting a hint of why he likes you so much, too.
[ They have the same kind, bright spirit, Nacho notes, squirming away from Jane's tickling fingers and grabbing her hand on instinct. Once he's got it, though, he sobers a little. And keeps hold of it as he glances back up to look her in the eyes. ]
I don't think us being in here with each other is -- usually -- part of the torture. But what might be is when somebody gets taken away, and they were the best thing you had. Not even just in Hell. So you take care of each other while you're both here, you got that?
[ It's probably obvious he knows more than he's saying out loud. That Jesse's lost her already, that he knows how it went. Don't let that happen again, Jane. If Hell's going to tear one of them away from the other, there's nothing anybody can do... but Nacho really hopes they don't fall back into old habits and wind up with new regrets. ]
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She doesn't stop smiling, though, and her tone is light, teasing. ]
Yeah, yeah. Calm down. You don't need to get your sentimentality all over me.
[ God, he really is a good match for Jesse. It's almost sickening. It is nice to see him laughing and smiling, though. He looked so sad before, so this is a welcome change. When he grabs her hand, she huffs slightly but then gives him a half-smile to show she's not actually mad. Then she takes her hand away, gently coasting her fingers over the forehead of the spirit between them instead, so they're still struggling to keep warm as it slumbers. Or seems to slumber? Still an open question as to if spirits actually can sleep, Jane supposes.
When he tells her to take care of each other, she nods. She can guess that if this guy is close to Jesse, and Jesse comes from before her in time, then he probably knows already what happened to her.
She has the same thoughts he does. That if Jesse leaves, or something happens to him... she doesn't want to think about what she might do then, what she might spiral into. Especially with how readily available drugs are here. Her chest puffs up a little, involuntarily, with the new nervous breath she draws. ]
I'll do my best. I'm sure Jesse will too. It's all we can do. But I don't like making promises like that. Committing to stuff, I don't know-- it's just not my thing.
[ She looks away for the first time in a while. She'd been enjoying the warmth of his gaze, but now she re-directs her eyeline elsewhere and shivers a little. She doesn't say anything right away but even though she isn't looking at him, there's something warm in her tone, something grateful and even happy. ]
Thanks, Ignacio. I'm glad he had you. [ Clears her throat. ] Has you. It's... Jesse, he's a good person. Not like me. Not like most people. He's just... he's kind, he's good. He needs someone watching his back.
And if you want my opinion [ and of course he does, why wouldn't he? Since they just met and all. ] it sounds like so do you.