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penancememes2022-10-23 04:27 pm
penancemods) wrote in penancememes2022-10-23 04:27 pm
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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
[He's not sure if that bastard is here, but hey, putting his name out wouldn't hurt, especially if this guy wants a good fight. Oh, Ramsay would do many things to see Jon die in battle... especially if he can get his hands on his corpse after.]
His name is Jon Snow. There's many stories that speak of his bravery and swordsmanship, almost like the North itself reveres him. [Ramsay finally loses some of that earlier cheer, a hatred and envy reaching his voice, even if he tries keep his face neutral. It's one thing for that bastard to be so well-respected by everyone, but now he's the reason why he's dead.
Well, his whore of his wife and that traitor Littlefinger too, but his hatred for Jon has always been prevalent.]
...And as you may expect after hearing such praise, the man grew an ego. Thinks himself to be the greatest swordsman to ever walk. [Ramsay's lying but who's going to correct him? NOT JON so there.]
no subject
I have not heard of him. [ Which he acknowledges does not mean much, considering almost everyone seems to be coming from different realities. ] What are some of his greatest feats?
[ It's always helpful to know, even if he's not seriously preparing for that showdown. Yet. He notices the barely-there change in the lord's demeanor. Looks like there's animosity there. Which isn't really much of his business. It doesn't matter to him as much which side is "right" than which will offer him a better deal, maybe with a few exceptions. ]
[ His own smirk grows a little sharper, hearing about that alleged boasting. ]
Well, he's just asking to have that put to a test then, isn't he?
[ The main reason is, of course, that Squalo thinks himself to be the greatest swordsman to ever walk, and clearly competition needs to be dealt with swiftly. Being outplayed by his own student once clearly taught him nothing. ]
no subject
In a single battle, he survived an entire cavalry and hundreds of arrows. I don't believe neither sword or arrow pierced his person at any point.
[Which, now talking about it out loud, is even more infuriating. How the fuck did that bastard survive his men charging at him in the battlefield, not to mention his archers raining down arrows?? The luck of fate or some horseshit really must be on his side-- and that's not even bringing in the fact that the Knights of Vale came to save him when Ramsay did manage to get Jon cornered. Things always seem to turn out for him.
If Jon ever lands here, he'll make sure that the bastard's luck will finally run out.
His mouth turns upward, pleased by Squalo's reaction. Well, maybe he's already making progress towards that.]
Even if he denies it and cites that honor is his driving force, he loves a good fight. I know him! He wants a one on one duel, with nothing but his sword and his opponent in mind. It's what he's good at.
no subject
That seems... unlikely. Or very lucky. [ He ponders for a moment. Maybe there was magic involved, but surely it would not be as impressive as to tell others of in that case. He doesn't look turned off from the task, however, rather just curious and amused, somehow. ] Really, no injuries at all?
[ His smirk widens once again hearing the rest. ]
Shouldn't be hard to get a match out of him, then. Worst case, call his honor into question, right?
[ Maybe threaten someone important to him or just commit a crime in front of him or something. Should be easy enough. Those harping on about honor could usually be played all to easily... not that he did not do that, on occasion, but clearly he was the brilliant exception as always. ]
no subject
[No big gash, no missing limbs, no arrow sticking from his person. All utterly ridiculous. It's only the thought of getting his hands on him in the future that stops Ramsay from displaying more of his anger.]
He spends day and night harping about his honor. It would be an easy feat to pull him in, a man who compensates that much.
[Threatening his family is always a good way to get Jon going. Although, Ramsay can't rely on the idea of two Starks being here, not when it feels like he's the only person from Westeros right now. Chances feel slim, but there's always creative ways to get that bastard to do what he wants.
Ramsay toys with the idea of speaking his musings to Squalo, but he's not entirely sure if the swordsman would still be on board upon hearing them. Most people tend to not like bringing family into these sort of things and he doesn't want to lose the first person that might be able to take down Jon Snow.]
no subject
[ He says it in jest, mostly, but you never know. If that is part of the equation, he'd rather be aware of it before he storms the guy's doors. ]
[ Squalo is not most people, though he also does not take kindly to people messing with his family most of the time. The thing is, his family is usually the people doing the threatening, so he's got quite a lot of faith in them looking after themselves. And if somebody was not able to protect their own... well, that was not his problem, was it? ]
No need for such compensation yourself, I take it?
[ Go on, good lord, tell him more about yourself. ]
no subject
[Is luck, magic? Fortune of the fates? Ramsay doesn't know and doesn't really care, as whatever it was, guided the bastard through the battlefield to eventually defeat him at his own home. If Ramsay's honest with himself though, he knew that things were pretty much over for him as soon as Jon and his wildling friends broke through the castle gates.]
You will not hear me talk about honor with each passing breath of mine.
[Mostly because he has no honor but more unnecessary details--]
Honor is a part of everyone, we know of the base laws to respect. Why talk excessively about that? I prefer to know more personable things about someone! Family, friends, their pride. Now that's what sets us apart.
no subject
I'm not particularly fond of gods. One of 'em has trapped us here.
[ And yet, the way he says it, sounds more like said god should be worried about annoying him in this way, rather than Squalo believing their situation is inescapable. ]
[ As far as he's concerned, anybody could be killed, as long as the right person had the right weapon. He acknowledges in a conflict between divine beings said person may not be him, but that's exactly why he's trying to aid Lucifer. ]
All good things to know. [ He agrees, apparently especially pleased with the mention of "pride". He is, however, also tickled by the fact that apparently wherever this guy is from, "honor" is some sort of a one size fits all. ] Do different people usually have the same definition of honor?
[ It's really less that the definition is different in his world, and more that he's the kind of guy who tends to pick and choose who gets to experience his moral code and who gets the sword in the back. Semantics, right? ]
no subject
I have no love for the gods, but let's keep that between us.
[Ramsay doesn't care if people know about his feelings towards them, but he thinks it wouldn't hurt just pretending that little detail is something significant. There's many that still place their faith in the old gods and follow their teachings to a tee back in Westeros, but he's already disgraced them just by being a bastard.]
In the North, we tend to have similar a mindset.
[Which made it very easy to betray the Starks and all that. It's not just the bastard that believes in honor, but that entire fucking family. Well, maybe not Sansa, but Ramsay isn't going to get into those details with Squalo. After all, such poor manners to talk about one's wife that way... or something like that.]
Those south of us may very well be different, especially as we reach the land of Dorne, but I have rarely traveled there. My place is in the North.
[Imagine going to the Iron Islands or something like that?? Ugh. Although, a thought crosses Ramsay and he looks at his 'companion' with curiosity.]
What's honor to you, swordsman? [Ramsay waves a hand, a laugh escaping him.] Just a simple answer will do, my ears will ring if I hear too much once more.
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[ Likewise, he's not particularly invested in the beliefs of others, though he finds it curious that the other man apparently wishes to appear more devout than he is. Perhaps he plans to play both sides. Well, Squalo would not deny him that. Could be entertaining. ]
[ The North sounds terrible, actually, but he's not about to say that to the one who apparently rules it. He's aware that weird people fond of cold climates exist. To each their own, he supposes. ]
Ten words or less, then? [ He flashes a grin, apparently finding his own wit extremely amusing, but then takes a moment to ponder. If he should put it simply... ] Fighting my own battles, I'd say.
[ Imagine accepting help from someone. Or, even worse, hiding behind someone else who gets the job done. ]
[ Which, subsequently, makes him have quite a low opinion of most of his clients, but what can you do. Not everyone is made for dirty work, and that's exactly why he can make a living out of it. ]
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[Ramsay adds on, although that's good stuff to know, assuming that Squalo isn't shitting him. He doesn't believe so, given his whole claim being the greatest swordsman, but he also thinks it's quite humorous since the guy is dead and in hell with everyone else. Did he fight a battle and sadly lose? Or was he taken out in a more anti-climatic manner?
He doesn't ask, not right now, and Ramsay just leans his cheek against an open palm, still interested in this conversation all the same. If anything, Squalo definitely isn't boring.]
Suiting for the greatest swordsman.
[Ramsay recalls Jon trying to egg him on, asking if he was willing to fight for his men, but as the Lord of Winterfell, he doesn't have to. They are supposed to fight for him, nothing else. As such, he can't relate all that much to Squalo's definition of honor, but that's okay! Good to have different mindsets and all, especially if they're fun to poke and manipulate.]
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[ But in this particular case... it had not been a fight that landed him in Hell. Not a sword duel, anyway. ]
Self-preservation is overrated. I'd rather have fun.
[ Honestly, he's not even mad about losing a fight (and consequentially dying) as long as he had a good time during it. It's the attitude he usually brings into life or death battles. It seemed to work pretty well for him. ]
'S why I never wanted a promotion. Once you're important enough, they won't let you join the fray.
[ He's leaving that open-ended, but Ramsay is free to assume it maybe pertains to him as well. No judgement there, just different strokes for different folks is all. ]
'Nd what's your honor?
[ Might as well return the question. Could learn something new. ]
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[Ramsay agrees with that same bright cheer, even if their definition of fun isn't entirely the same thing. Still, based on what Squalo's been citing to him, perhaps it is more inline than most. He lives to fight like some sort of trained beast and someone like that would not shy from much.
It's not surprising that he turned down a promotion, as he's correct that becoming a high ranking lord tends to stop you from getting on the frontlines. It's a failure of the army if they let their king fall and all that. At this time, he's fine letting Squalo believe what he wants about his battle experience, especially as he's being asked about his honor now. Well then.]
I mentioned that us Northerns have similar mindsets, but we have some differences. I shall not talk excessively, so ten words or less, right? [Ramsay chuckles, but he pretends to think real hard about this, before deciding to go with something.] Keeping up the traditions of my House.
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[ It's not wrong, that assumption. Squalo had been a guard and attack dog for his own high lord, or rather, his boss, pretty much. But he had also earned respect in his own right. While his team's existence was not public knowledge, those deep enough underground to have heard of them uttered his name with fear. ]
[ He smirks a little as his little quip about keeping things short seems to have caught on. Good man. Funny, at least. He does not have a strong opinion about his answer, though he considers it something of a disappointment. Some traditions were full of shit, but he supposed others had their purposes. More so than laws did, at least. ]
And here I thought most traditions were boring. Suppose that's not the case?
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The Starks just don't have the stomach for it.]
House Bolton is known for being merciless towards our enemies. We don't often keep prisoners, our very banners hold the image of a flayed man.
[Theon is just a very special case.]
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A prisoner is just an enemy waiting to be free.
[ Which often put him at odds with Lucifer's politics. The guy's been near-overthrown how many times now, and yet he seemed to let the offenders off with a slap on the wrist each time. ]
...that so?
[ He does seem to perk up just a little at the mention of flaying, but it's not quite him being startled by it. No, he's just wondering how personal he wants to get. A bit of relation for camaraderie without any promises or anything precise enough to be used against him later sounds like the golden middle. ]
[ He shrugs lightly, as if he's inclined to make excuses for his lack of an averse reaction a moment ago. ]
Didn't deal much with torture back home, but I did have a... very dear friend here who enjoyed skinning a fellow every now and then. Got me some newfound respect for the art.
[ Then again, he doubts he would enjoy it as much if anybody but Feitan was doing it. He's still not about to judge somebody for the same thing he's encouraged and possibly taken part in a couple times, though. Well, assuming Lord Bolton even took such practices upon himself, rather than ordering one of his servants to do it. ]
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Rare breed and all, if you're not a Bolton.
He can't fully hide the pleased gleam in his eyes, his smile widening just a bit further as Squalo mentions this very dear friend of his. Ramsay is definitely giving himself away now, but he doesn't think too hard on those consequences. ]
Do you now! Is your friend no longer here? I'd love to see their technique when ripping the skin off some cunt. [He snickers lightly, somehow amused by this sort of talk.]
It is an art! You know how hard it is to skin human flesh in large pieces? There's a right technique for it.
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[ He tears himself away from the memory, though there's still something fond in his smirk as he slowly shakes his head. ]
No, unfortunately he's gone. [ He doesn't know where, either. It keeps him awake at night, sometimes, thinking he's still trapped somewhere in Hell, but away from him. ] People come and go without rhyme or reason in this place. He usually used a regular knife, I think. That or his bare hands. Could grow these really wicked claws at will.
[ He gestures a bit with his hand, motioning the shape of said claws with one around the other to give a better idea what it was like. ]
Can't say I've tried to get anything other than ribbons, but it does sound hard. [ And even the thinner strips often tore or went in an unintended way. ] Sounds like you have quite a bit of experience with that.
[ go on, tell him about your hobby! ]
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Never used my bare hands before, but with claws as sharp as knives, they'd work just fine. Maybe even more so, hard to get more personal than using only your hands to pull skin off. Must've been a sight to see.
[Ramsay isn't sure if he'd want claws for himself, but those are thoughts for another time. He's fine with his flaying knife for now.]
It's family tradition, I couldn't very well be the lord of my house if I couldn't honor such a technique. As soon as I was able to grip a knife, I practiced, young as I might've been.
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[ He's definitely thinking back to it now, lamenting, because damn right it was a sight to see. ]
It was like watching a masterpiece unravel before your eyes... and still, I was even more impressed with the way he moved when wielding a sword.
[ They also may have shacked up, but that's neither here nor there. ]
It's good to have goals. The earlier you start, the more of them you can reach. [ He smirks a bit; the man hadn't given him a name, just a bunch of titles, but now he's got half of the puzzle. ] Bolton famiglia, I take it?
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[Looks like he has someone here that truly appreciates art. Course, it seems like Squalo has more appreciation for swordsmanship, but he can't entirely begrudge him on that. A swordsman's interest lies in the obvious, similar to what a flayer may only be interested in.
Although, Ramsay isn't against acknowledging someone's abilities, especially if they're useful to him. He's willing to fully admit that he'd most likely lose to Squalo in a fight, especially if it's one against one. But he can't be good at everything now, just his favorite things.]
As my father's only heir, my goal was set, maybe before I fully understood it. [He'll just leave the part where he's a bastard and how he killed his infant brother, those are just details. An unreadable look passes by Ramsay's face at those thoughts, before he smiles once more at Squalo.
Famiglia-- family. The word's unfamiliar, but he understands well what it means.]
But yes, the Bolton famiglia! And what is family without our history and traditions? [...] Our blood?
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[ Of course, feelings suck, so that's enough of that. Moving on!.. ]
Hmm. [ He notices that shift in expression, though it doesn't tell him anything -- but it's not an unfamiliar concept. He himself has never been heir, but his boss was, and so it was still important to him. And he knows the weight it can bear. ] I don't disagree overall, but some traditions deserve to be broken.
[ Like whatever "tradition" it was that allowed the don to declare his hamsterlike great-great-nephew-whatever as heir instead of his own raised son that suit perfectly for the role. Not that he has grudges. None at all. ]
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The traditions that hold you back, I assume.
[Hey he gets it to some degree. It's how he's felt about one specific thing for most of his life: his status as the bastard of the Dreadfort. Things started to turn around for him when he got legitimatized, but as Sansa pointed out, his claim on Winterfell would always be viewed with scorn. A bastard legitimatized by another; his position would always be threatened by a trueborn.
His thoughts nearly turn his mood sour, but he keeps things amicable still.]
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Exactly. Plenty of things still around that should be collecting dust in the history books.
[ Like primogeniture. ]