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bondedmeme2026-06-08 02:01 pm
triumvirmod) wrote in bondedmeme2026-06-08 02:01 pm
TEST DRIVE MEME | #01 OVERFLOW
TDM #01 OVERFLOW
Wow! B&B Mods could never have anticipated our first TDM would require an overflow! We're very flattered and honored by all the interest. Please continue to have fun here, away from the captcha demons.
This is open to all players looking to join our game or simply have some fun. Play on this TDM does not equate to intent or obligation to apply to join. Players on this TDM should follow all game rules and Characters should meet all game suitability standards per our FAQ. TDM threads are considered game canon for characters who join! The Moon Pact is in power for the full duration of this TDM, putting Sun Pact characters as in service. Moon Pact bindings are presently glittering silver and Sun Pact bindings are unpolished brass. Pact and Class can both be freely player assigned and swapped at will for the purpose of the TDM.
This is open to all players looking to join our game or simply have some fun. Play on this TDM does not equate to intent or obligation to apply to join. Players on this TDM should follow all game rules and Characters should meet all game suitability standards per our FAQ. TDM threads are considered game canon for characters who join! The Moon Pact is in power for the full duration of this TDM, putting Sun Pact characters as in service. Moon Pact bindings are presently glittering silver and Sun Pact bindings are unpolished brass. Pact and Class can both be freely player assigned and swapped at will for the purpose of the TDM.
Overseer, Awaken and Conquer
CW: Descriptions of dubiously consensual touch, choking, hallucinations, falling.
The Hands that Grasp
Consciousness wanes. From calm oblivion reaches a pair of elegant hands. Fingertips caress, trailing physical form, mapping curves and divots. Some dark or desperate compulsion leans into the comfort of this touch. The hands dig in. Clasping tight at the neck and pull downward. Down and down, through unclear space, through unclear time. Your character awakens with a start. Where they last felt those hands grasping into them, a collar now rests. Prying does not budge the solid metal, which is either of silver or of brass. Before their eyes is a pane of stained glass. Inscribed in a language all can read are the words Overseer, Awaken and Conquer.
The Glass Coffins
Overseers awaken, contained within a coffin of ornate, metal framework and glass. For some, a light push will cause the lid to swing open. For others, the enclosure may stick or prove too heavy to budge. Breaking free is an option, though mysteriously, the glass fully repairs itself within minutes of sustaining damage. Other Overseers may be present throughout the hallways, willing and able to aid in opening stubborn coffins. That is, should their unlucky inhabitants be able to get their attention through the sound dampening barrier. Overseers continually awaken, either individually or in batches, throughout the month. This will last until the day of the upcoming solstice.
The Gilded Cradle
Innumerable rows of glass coffins line the interior of a grand cathedral tower. Somehow, the name of this stained glass spire is imprinted in the mind of all Overseers. This is known as the Gilded Cradle within Absentia. Where or what is Absentia? How did they arrive here? Why are they here? The answers to such questions remain unknown. These names are as far as the foreign memory serves Overseers. The foggy corridors spiral downward, a staircase connecting floor after floor of largely unopened coffins. Many have glass too hazy to see within. The hallways are heavy with the scent of lavender tinged magic and lightning storm ozone, made visible as a thick haze in the air. Through this fog, Overseers may notice one another or they may see phantoms running by. People familiar to them. Chasing after these figments is a foolish endeavor, they will pick up speed into the thick of the fog. There, they will disappear. This can leave unsuspecting Overseers teetering on the topmost edge of a stairwell or allow their momentum to throw them over the central railing. A fall to the Cradle's ground floor isn't enough to kill an Overseer turns out, but it will injure. Beginning your journey battered is merely an added misfortune.
The Castle Constructs
When Overseers leave the Gilded Cradle, they find they're trapped within an abandoned castle. While exploring they find no other living creatures other than fellow Overseers. Throughout the halls and rooms of the castle rest Constructs. These figures are shells of either iron or brass, with a variety of gargoyle-like appearances. They stand with their wings tucked around their bodies. Littered throughout the location, their placements can often clue in to their former duties as the Castle attendants. These Constructs remain completely inert until two Overseers of the same Pact pass by. Iron Constructs react to pairs of Moon Pact members, while Brass Constructs come alive near pairs of Sun Pact members. When awakened, they unfurl and stand to a height ranging from around three-to-six foot tall. The Constructs promptly begin to carry out butler-like duties, as if they were long ago set to a schedule of operation. When presented with a task they can no longer seem to accomplish, they merely pantomime the action before moving onward. (These NPCs can be player controlled and are non-hostile unless attacked first.)
Locked In
CW: Survival themes, food insecurity, exchanging sex for goods and services.
➤Attentive characters will discover quickly that Constructs bring extra rations as room service to those in Power. This at first appears exclusive to the Moon Pact within the Hall of Overseers. The Constructs do this when Overseers have sex in the luxury of the lower floor rooms. However, the Constructs range of understanding is a bit impaired, so fucking in the courtyard also works to call food and drink, regardless of Pact alignment.
➤For those seeking a more direct approach to acquiring extra rations, there's always robbery. The Constructs are not highly fortified. Their routes from the kitchen to the Hall of Overseers are easy enough to intercept. They do resist Overseers who attempt to steal from them, defending the food if attacked. Overseers who damage Constructs find they simply curl back into their wings, where they become both immobile and invulnerable from further damage. They will repair themselves in time and do not... appear... to hold a grudge. The Overseers whose meals were hijacked might, though.
The Kitchen
The kitchen of Absentia is vast, meant to accommodate for a castle population in the hundreds. Long abandoned, any food reserves have turned to dust or rot. All that remains are a series of strange machines, humming with dull magic. Only operable by the castles resident Constructs, hungry Overseers would be advantaged to activate the inactive Constructs scattered nearby. Once occupying the kitchen, Constructs are more likely to provide a meager serving of food to Overseers who have used magic recently or who hold Influence. (Characters playing this TDM with no canon powers may presume they hold (1) Influence for this and subsequent prompts.)The Hall of Overseers
To the west of the Gilded Cradle there lies a long, rectangular housing structure, framing a vast courtyard. Rain from the storm overhead patters down constantly. Rooms for Overseers line the open air hallways overlooking the nature within the central outdoor space. At this time, those of the Moon Pact enjoy the lower floors of the indoor sections, with luxurious accommodations. These include private rooms with a fireplace, claw foot baths with clean running water, a variety of furniture, and a plush bed. The upper level indoor rooms are for the Overseers presently in service, the Sun Pact. These rooms are all shared and scarcely furnished. Hammocks and bunk beds are provided to house three or four Overseers per cramped room. These upper location hallways have shared bathroom spaces and no private amenities provided. Overseer names are engraved upon the door frame of their assigned rooms. There is no access given to rooms without this engraving. Overseers need to be invited in to rooms they do not own or share. (Rooms are fully self assigned by Players and can change freely between threads. Pact is likewise self assigned, but should match the room type described above. Moon Pact characters are free to invite Sun Pact characters into their rooms, and visa-versa.)
The Hands that Feed
As Overseers settle in, they find resources are thin and accessible castle space highly limited. There is no exit from the castle at this time. Trying to fly out over the top of Hall of Overseers courtyard results in perpetually being turned around by the Storm until exhausted. Overseers who try to smash windows or break through the architecture find their magic or strength immediately drained. Teleportation leads back to where one attempted to leave from. The trap feels inescapable. This inevitably creates an air of frustration and futility within the awakened Overseer ranks. All there is to do is to make do.➤Attentive characters will discover quickly that Constructs bring extra rations as room service to those in Power. This at first appears exclusive to the Moon Pact within the Hall of Overseers. The Constructs do this when Overseers have sex in the luxury of the lower floor rooms. However, the Constructs range of understanding is a bit impaired, so fucking in the courtyard also works to call food and drink, regardless of Pact alignment.
➤For those seeking a more direct approach to acquiring extra rations, there's always robbery. The Constructs are not highly fortified. Their routes from the kitchen to the Hall of Overseers are easy enough to intercept. They do resist Overseers who attempt to steal from them, defending the food if attacked. Overseers who damage Constructs find they simply curl back into their wings, where they become both immobile and invulnerable from further damage. They will repair themselves in time and do not... appear... to hold a grudge. The Overseers whose meals were hijacked might, though.
The Courtyard
The courtyard at the center of the Hall of Overseers is a public space with five distinct sections. At the center, there is an ornate fountain that serves as the most reliable, public spot for clean drinking water. The fountain depicts the three Classes, though all of them are partially destroyed. The Ruler has their hands broken off, the Dragon is missing its head, and the pegasus shaped Herald has a hole in its chest. Grimly, the water flows from each of these missing pieces into the pool below. This space is open and visible to all, especially from the higher rooms of the Hall. This central location serves well as a social hub and meet up point for Overseers to congregate, though it is perpetually raining here.
➤Heralds and Dragons experience their first urge to transform within the Courtyard. They are able to resist it, if their willpower is sufficiently high, but the compulsion is strong. Dragons feel a need to shed their skin, to fly and be free. There is not much room for multiple, large dragons to do either of these things. Mind your wings! Heralds begin to feel territorial, wishing to reinvigorate the long dead space. Heralds are able to terraform within the confines of garden planters as they see fit, but they may find them destroyed by Dragons or usurped by other Heralds. Miniature territory disputes may serve as practice for times ahead. Rulers can hear mysterious whispers throughout the Courtyard, but especially nearby the fountain. If they acknowledge these whispers aloud, they will get a response. Those Rulers who listen closely can hear the mocking words "you're not leaving this time."
The other four quadrants surrounding the central fountain are overgrown and wild, contrasting the initially desolate central area. These spaces are each themed to a different season; spring, summer, fall, and winter. Once Overseers enter one of the gated in spaces, the area within appears larger than the outside barrier suggests. The temperature varies wildly between each, though the Storm over head remains consistent. Each contains a singular hideaway which the Constructs will bring food to. These shield Overseers from outside view, but may turn out to be in hot demand. Mind yourselves if trying to sneak into one of these spots for privacy, they may already be taken! (Each hideaway may be customized at player discretion to suit their threads. A single piece of furniture for leisure may be present, like a lounge or hammock. Some ideas for natural spaces would be hidden behind a waterfall, beneath a canopy of trees, a frosty cave, or an alcove hidden by fallen leaves.)
➤Starting a week into June, there is a new development within the courtyard.
➤Heralds and Dragons experience their first urge to transform within the Courtyard. They are able to resist it, if their willpower is sufficiently high, but the compulsion is strong. Dragons feel a need to shed their skin, to fly and be free. There is not much room for multiple, large dragons to do either of these things. Mind your wings! Heralds begin to feel territorial, wishing to reinvigorate the long dead space. Heralds are able to terraform within the confines of garden planters as they see fit, but they may find them destroyed by Dragons or usurped by other Heralds. Miniature territory disputes may serve as practice for times ahead. Rulers can hear mysterious whispers throughout the Courtyard, but especially nearby the fountain. If they acknowledge these whispers aloud, they will get a response. Those Rulers who listen closely can hear the mocking words "you're not leaving this time."
Grief Hath Mates
Class Scenarios
Note: The following prompts are available for all Players, though abilities should always match up with a character's present Class! Class for characters on the TDM can change between threads, but should not change mid-thread. This fully locks down upon acceptance to the game. Characters are presently "unstable" in their Pact and Class assignments, so all threads can remain canon, even if they contradict Pact or Class assigned later on. Any changes made to shared setting environments below are temporary, so feel free to play with destructive and creation powers as specified.
RULERS
➤Rulers who attempt to speak to the Constructs will find they are reacted to in a way the Dragons and Heralds are not. Constructs do not speak back, but they are more attentive towards Rulers regardless of their Influence level. If asked where something is, Constructs will dutifully guide the Ruler to the location in question if it exists. Sometimes, Constructs will open up previously locked doors. None of these lead outside, but they offer some new clues to how the castle once operated in the past. Rulers can open up additional rooms to explore such as a drawing room, a music room, a wine cellar, and a smoking room. These rooms all have basic supplies for their given activity, including aged wine and cigars in the latter two respectively. Rulers with clever tongues or manipulative sensibilities can convince the Constructs to leave them “in charge” of a room. This grants the Ruler a key to the door they can leverage as they please. (Players can play their Ruler as if they hold exclusive control of a room, but this is not imposed TDM-wide. Multiple Rulers can each claim the same type room, no player actually holds full IC/OOC control.)
DRAGONS
➤Dragons are going to be the first to snap under such cramped conditions. Their natural urges are to spread out and fly, not be stuck within a castle. The more volatile Dragons will find their natural instinct is to go Berserk. Berserk mode can be engaged in either their humanoid or Dragon form, though Dragons can only transform at this time within the confines of the Courtyard. If Dragons are causing trouble in the Courtyard, luring or forcing them out of the Courtyard at large forces a Dragon to return to their humanoid form. Getting in fights may not be productive, but it might provide some enrichment to Overseers wishing to challenge each other or keep the peace. (Reminder: Dragons, regardless of form, are especially durable and may prove difficult to subdue! Rulers are best suited to this task, given they have a natural advantage over Dragons. Heralds can make their own attempts, it is simply more risky for them given how fragile they are.) Dragons of more even temperaments can make themselves productive by using relevant elemental magic around the castle. The castle interior is lit only by the dull glow of the sun or moon, which are often dulled by the cloud cover overhead. Providing temperature control or lighting could be a great ease to their own mental state, as well as benefit their fellow Overseers.
HERALDS
➤While cooked rice, dried meat, and pickled vegetables are largely what is being provided, there is a distinct lack of fruit or alcohol coming out of the kitchen. Heralds may find themselves especially desperate for these. Within the courtyard only, they can flex their newly found Class abilities to rapidly influence nature. Heralds may find themselves having vivid daydreams about their favorite fresh fruits from home. These fantasies manifest, growing the imagined fruits from nearby vines, bushes, and trees. This can happen deliberately or entirely by accident. However, due to the imperfect nature of both memory and imagination, these fruits are never fully accurate recreations. The taste and quality of the fruit end up heavily influenced by a Herald’s own subjective experience and are prone to exaggeration. Any fruit from any world is allowed, these simply cannot cause any magical effects. Devious Heralds which imagine poisonous fruits can injure, but not kill fellow Overseers. Such produce can be used to make alcohol by those with the knowledge and wherewithal to do so. Any manner of food is in demand and Heralds have this to provide. Replenishing energy though sex is always an option to help produce more or better resources of this kind.
OOC Info
What is Overflow posting Etiquette?
If you have a Top Level post on the Original TDM, then feel free to repost it in full or with new prompts below! Reply to your own, new top level with carry over threads, rather than create new top levels for each carry over thread. For COMPLETELY new Top Levels (or those reposted from page 4 of the last TDM post), we will have a Directory below exclusively for finding those. Players who posted their TL link on the previous Top Level Directory are welcome to edit a link to their overflow into their previous directory post.
Can I reserve my character before applying?
If you want to claim a character spot in advance of applications opening, our Reserves Page opens on the 10th of June, through to the 15th. This is not required for application, but highly recommended even for original or obscure characters. Reserving provides an instant-pass through 1st month game Activity Check! It also provides Moderation with an idea of incoming player numbers!
How do I apply to join the game?
Head over to our Application Page. These open up on June 15th and close on the 20th. The game officially opens on the 21st of June, barring any unexpected delays.
Is there an OOC space I can discuss potential plans?
Take a look at our Enable-me-Please for OOC discussions and plotting!
no subject
Ah--this place truly does love to play tricks upon people, at least in my experience thus far...
[Give her a moment while she picks up and gathers the colored pencils, but Hina at least tries to brighten as she looks to the strange man in front of her. He looks like some sort of youkai, truly; maybe something from the Former Hell? Hm.
Still, Hina reaches into a skirt pocket, pulling out something she'd be owing a man a favor on; it's not how she had wanted to utilize it, but perhaps it would be nice to make a friend over some alcohol. It's a typical experience for most mortals, right? The bottle of wine is held close to her, but...]
While I would need to see if I can find another of those strange machines to guide you to the cellar proper, would you like something to hold you over, for now? I don't mind sharing.
no subject
He's considering turning on his heel and leaving her to it, when she pulls out something that catches his interest.]
...Wait, seriously?
[—There has to be a catch. There always is. He's damn near desperate for booze, but he isn't stupid. There's a catch, and he needs to figure out what it is first.]
What are ya askin' for in return? Don't have much I can offer ya right now.
[Protection, maybe? He can kick people in the head if needed??]
no subject
...I do not mind if you wish to simply take your fill and leave, sir. [Hina considers for a moment, though. Is there something she wants? ...Well, actually--] Truthfully, your company would be enough if you are willing to offer! Having someone to talk to while enjoying alcohol is said to make it better.
So I have heard, at least.
[Hina beams once she says that much, though!]
no subject
Hah, well, first time for everythin', I suppose. Most people'd run the other way from me instead of askin' to share a drink!
[It's... kind of novel, honestly. Sure, he felt the same way when that kid asked to come with him, but this is different. That kid was rightfully wary after he heard that Vicious was the Great Transgressor.]
But sure, if that's all your after, I ain't gonna say no! Name's Vicious.
no subject
[Hina's smile visibly brightens, and she'll begin to float right on over to Vicious with a smile.]
My name is Hina; Hina Kagiyama. I know not how long our stay will be in this place, but I am truly delighted to meet you. Come; I know where we can get some glasses to enjoy this with, as well!
[Come on--thankfully this kitchen isn't too far out, and even better, this kitchen has clean glasses!!! Score! Hina will start pouring Vicious a glass once they've settled in, Hina electing to take a seat upon the air itself.]
If it is not too much to ask, to start with...what sort of place do you come from, if you do not mind my asking? I have heard people coming from all sorts of myriad worlds.
no subject
Hah, don't butter me up too much, my ego will never recover.
[But it's... nice. It's a really nice change of pace.
Clean glasses obtained, and Vicious immediately tosses back half of his glass with a satisfied sound.]
That's better! Been itchin' for somethin' to take the edge off, y'know?
[He's already feeling less irritable, though that may have something to do with the kindness offered so freely, not that he'd ever admit it.]
Sure, I can tell you about it. My world's kinda crap; you've got your big countries and kingdoms, you've got monsters, and you've got people rattin' each other out all the time on Vision Central. Do a crime an' if someone's around to catch you, they put it up there an' everyone who watches can judge you for it. They decide they want you to disappear, an' the Enforcers come after you.
[He takes another slow sip as he considers. This isn't the first time he's run into someone who likely doesn't recognize any of this. So he's doing his best to explain, he's just sort of crap at it.]
People judged that way are called transgressors. Most of 'em die to the Enforcers. But rumor has it there's a place called the Nation of Sin where transgressors can go to escape the Enforcers.
no subject
I understand; truthfully, alcohol has an incredible way of making one feel at ease in even the most tense of situations, doesn't it? I'm quite glad that it doesn't seem to be entirely in short supply here.
[Hina listens as Vicious continues, though; perhaps unsurprisingly, her brows start to knit first in concern, then outright worry as she hears more about his world. More about the state of it, all stated so matter of fact. It...]
...As much as I can understand wishing to inform the public of something deeply grim happening, a part of me cannot help but worry that people are using such things for ill effects. I...surely they only save such things for crimes that could harm the populace at large, yes?
[Something in Hina's heart sinks at that, though. Doubt, certainly.]
I cannot say I envy the thought of living in such a stifling environment, however, regardless.
no subject
[Vicious wiggles a hand as if to say "maybe". It's kind of refreshing to talk to someone who doesn't immediately agree that the Vision Orbs and that whole system are perfect and flawless.]
I'm sure some of 'em really do think they're helpin'. An' from what I've seen, it's not like they're in the wrong. Kanata killed his father. Misella set fire to an orphanage an' a kid got caught up in it and died. Those are their sins to bear. Maybe the people who saw 'em thought it was justified that they deserved to die for their sins.
I wouldn't really know; never had a Vision Orb myself an' never saw any of the broadcasts personally.
[That alone would raise red flags in his world, but here... well, he's curious to see her reaction to it.]
no subject
Hina listens to that and...oh, that's even more barbaric than she thought. Certainly, whoever Kanata and Misella are have committed grave sins, but Hina's expression continues to be deeply unsure about all of this. Granted, she also assumes both of these people are grown adults, but...]
...Those sins are indeed grave. I will not deny such a thing. Humans by and large wish to protect themselves, and the needs of many will likely outweigh the intricacies of the actions of a few. At least, that is my understanding.
I...still dislike it, however. Even if they did such a thing, is there truly no possibility that such things were an accident? Or a matter of defense, or--
[Hina doesn't really understand humanity, and frankly, she doesn't care if it's obvious now that she likely isn't human. Something about this all settles wrong with her, even if her morals are certainly different from a mortal's.]
...You do not have one of those orbs? Is...everyone born with one, or forced to have one?
no subject
[He doesn't answer that, because it's obvious to him. They weren't given a chance to explain themselves or even beg for forgiveness. Kanata was a fool to believe that anyone in the village would give him half a chance, but it's starting to make a little more sense now, given Hina's reaction. After all, Kanata's a kind person too.
Anyway, her reaction about the Vision Orbs is exactly as interesting as he expected, and Vicious grins; it's a sharp, unpleasant expression.]
Dunno how everyone ends up with one, but yeah. Everyone's got one. As far back as I can remember, I've never had one - but then, I've had my Stain of Guilt for as long as I can remember as well. I'm a transgressor - but not just any ol' transgressor. I'm the one they call the Great Transgressor, the enemy of humanity.
[There's no pride in it; it is what it is. It's so strange to actually have to tell someone this, and that too is a strange kind of fascinating.]
no subject
I could, if you truly want me to try. [Hina worries at some of her ribbons, unconsciously. Still staring at Vicious, even smiling a touch, even if the smile is just...very, very sad.] But I believe your tone already tells of what the answer would be. Of a lack of nuance on their part, of complete black and white.
[Even if Hina may not understand humans, she understands the laws of the world. The way humanity thinks in black and white, though perhaps Hina herself has far more faith in them than this man ever will.
Especially once he actually explains everything with himself, and for a brief moment, Hina is stunned. Openly so, to; a free hand goes to cover her mouth as she listens to him, a little openly stunned for a moment as she contemplates all of that. A man who is literally the enemy of humanity...a man who's purpose in life is to be that, stained assumedly from birth.
It takes a few moments as Hina processes that, her expression neutralizing.]
...You've...never had the chance at a what most would call a normal life, have you?
no subject
And yet she listened to him, knows that he could have committed any number of crimes, and yet offers him compassion. It's such a surreal reaction that he sort of struggles to wrap his head around it for a moment, eyes wide and head inclined just a bit as if trying to work out whether she's being serious or not.]
...No. Can't say I'd want one, though? Sounds boring. I'm a simple man; I like a good fight, an' a good drink, an' I can get both of 'em pretty reliably.
[He's quiet for a moment, taking a long drink and savoring it rather than chugging it.]
Your first reaction isn't to ask what I've done, though? I was kinda expectin' that, y'know.
no subject
Well, I'm glad that I'm apparently an easy book to read. [It's at least a bit of a joke when she says it, though she looks away from Vicious and swishes her wine in the glass a bit to fill the space for a moment.] I will not deny my curiosity at what you have done, at what has caused you to be labeled as such a thing. I know not if you are a good person, or a bad one. But truthfully, it doesn't matter.
I believe that all humans deserve the right to a peaceful life, free of the things that have stained them. And it had sounded to me as if you have been stained from birth; is it fair to judge one's actions, with that considered?
[...]
And truthfully, I had wondered if your situation may be similar to my own.
no subject
[The warning's out of his mouth immediately; this just proves that she is too kind. He can't imagine it'll be any different here, a world away, because people will always take advantage of kindness. Hell, he's done it before and he'll do it again. She likely doesn't need the warning, though; if she's choosing to be kind, despite knowing that she can be used, then...
Vicious shakes his head and finishes off his glass instead.]
But I won't try to argue you outta it. It's your decision to make.
[And maybe, some small part of him is grateful for it. To be... accepted as he is without need of explaining himself or his actions. She hit the nail on the head anyway - is it fair for him to be judged as the enemy of humanity when that's all he's ever known?
Eh, but she's said something that sounds fascinating, so Vicious shakes his head as if to dismiss those thoughts.]
I've been talkin' 'bout myself this whole time - so go on. Share - what's your situation like?
no subject
[It's Hina's choice in the end, isn't it? She's always offered humans kindness. She's always offered it, no matter how much they have scorned her and avoided her, no matter how much they get wrong about her and her intentions. What you see is what you get; just a girl who loves humanity.
Hina takes a long swig of wine and lets the silence fill the room for a moment; she expected Vicious to turn this back to her at some point, and given all he's shared about himself, it's surprisingly easy to admit what she's hiding about herself.]
It's a rather simple situation, truthfully. Quite black and white; I'm a goddess of misfortune.
[Hina doesn't look at Vicious, her free hand going and worrying at some of her ribbons again. But she continues easily, speaking kindly the entire time.]
To put it more simply, though...most consider me a living taboo; that to perceive me in any fashion would invite untold misfortunes upon them, that I am the origin of all misfortune. Most fear me; some even dislike me, truthfully. I've fought against humans who have been willing to risk everything to get past me and the misfortune I have gathered; regardless, their thoughts matter very little to me.
I love humanity deeply, after all.
no subject
Hina continues, explaining her situation and Vicious can't help but marvel at how bizarre it is that the two of them would find each other like this, a world away from their own troubles.]
A goddess of misfortune and the Great Transgressor... quite a pair we make, huh?
I figured you weren't human what with the floatin' an' all, but a goddess? Definitely didn't see that one comin'.
[He can only imagine how vastly different her life has been compared to his. Why, she's probably existed for hundreds - if not thousands - of years. Goddesses probably don't have to worry about dying or aging.]
I'm guessin' we do have some things in common, given that you've apparently also been considered an enemy of humanity. But I can't say I love humans - the lot of 'em are too damn stupid for me to wanna care 'bout 'em.
[After they've shunned and reviled him, it's hard to think about growing to care for them. Maybe one here or there, but Yuna's kind of an exception, and the transgressor kids are more entertaining than anything else. It's strange, to think that a woman in a situation that's somewhat comparable to his own chooses kindness and love for humanity, when she's been shunned because of what she is.]
Why do you love 'em so much?
no subject
[She doesn't blame him for his perception of humans, at least; how could he see the good in them, when he's lived like he's been forced to? But when the question is turned on Hina, she finally looks back at Vicious and smiles softly.]
Because all of their hatred and scorn is worth it to see them safe. To see humans in their village, even from a distance--the relief on their faces when lost family members or friends are returned to them is wonderful. But even the small things, such as seeing a human's fortune improve after I have taken their misfortune from them...
Well, it fills me with delight! [It's pretty simple, but...] I love seeing their happy faces, even if I know they are not for me. I love seeing what they can do, the things that they can make--I suppose to put it simply, I see beauty and wonder in humanity and their transient lives. Humans can do so much with their limited time, and even if their decisions can sometimes cause ill effect of their own misfortune, I will love them all the same.
I will continue to frighten them back into the safety of their homes, and I will continue to clear their way forward. This is what I was born for, and I do not have any regrets.
[...Well, sort of, at least. Though Hina elects to change that up a bit as she looks at Vicious, smiling a little warmer.]
Even without my powers, I will endeavor to continue my role for all of you here.
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Huh. You really do love 'em.
[Not that he doubted her word, but the way she describes them is full of such wonder and care; things he's never found himself feeling towards humanity. But then, it sounds as though there's a difference in their experiences - he's been actively hunted by humans, while she seems to live apart from them. Maybe it's different enough to explain their opposing viewpoints, maybe it isn't. Either way, it is what it is, and what it is is fascinating.]
Still think you're bein' too kind to 'em, an' extendin' that to everyone here sounds like a lotta work. But it's your decision to make, an' I'm not gonna argue with you.
[Something about what she said, though... This is what I was born for...
Eh, no sense worrying too much about it. She's said something interesting that he wants to follow up on, anyway.]
You don't have your powers here? Weird, I feel totally normal?
[And as if to prove that, Vicious reaches out with his free hand, summoning one of his pistols and spinning it around with ease... before firing a shot at a vase sitting nearby. Goodbye poor vase, you did not deserve this.]
Yep, workin' as normal.
1/2
[Hina smiles brightly and easily, and yes you can absolutely have more, Vicious. Hina's even generous with the portion, which means she's absolutely going to be running out very soon. She has one spare, but at this rate...well, maybe they won't go through it, but it's looking doubtful.
Either way, it doesn't diminish Hina's optimism in the slightest.]
Then I will simply have to redouble my efforts and look for new methods to ensure that all of your paths are clear of trouble. Even in a place like this, a goddess must abide by her duty...and I'm happy to at least try for you all--
[Vicious brings up his own powers, which gets Hina to stop for a moment as he manifests his weapon--a strange thing, something Hina isn't entirely familiar with. Most of our bullets are made with magic, but--]
2/2
VICIOUS. WARN A GIRL BEFORE YOU DO THAT???]
...Goodness. [L-LET'S START THERE. There's...nothing she can wipe off on, so she's just gonna grab some trailing ribbons from her giant hairbow and try to clean herself a bit--] But yes, other than my ability to fly, it's as if my misfortune gathering abilities have been lost to me. I'm...truthfully not sure how this has happened.
[...]
It's the first time I have ever been without my powers, without the worry of...potentially passing misfortune onto others. I suppose to be more accurate, it's the first time I've been allowed to simply be...me.
I'm still not sure what to make of it.
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He laughs at her reaction, releasing his grip on the gun and willing it away.]
Didn't think it'd startle ya that much! Guess I owe you an apology for wastin' some of your drink.
[Maybe he'd offer her something to use to wipe herself off, but like. Look at his outfit. Do you think this man has a scrap of clothing that can be parted with?? No.]
I'm gonna guess it's gonna take some time to get used to. Bein' without my powers would be... weird. They've been a part of me for as long as I can remember, an' I wouldn't be happy to see 'em gone.
[Well, mostly. There's that other form of his that always lingers in the back of his mind... but he won't use it. Not back home, not here.]
But sounds like yours are a little different. Less somethin' to rely on and more somethin' that can cause some problems.
Anyway, you need somethin' shot or kicked, you know who to ask. Though I haven't seen any monsters or Enforcers yet, so maybe this place is pretty peaceful.
[...He definitely sounds disappointed at that idea.]
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...
And the less she thinks about that the better, so she looks to Vicious as he speaks and nods her head.]
I understand. Truthfully, it's more than a little jarring to be without my powers...but with them, being near you all would present a grave danger that I could not allow. And with quarters as close as this, it could spell disaster.
I do not want that, for any of you.
[But...]
...I am glad that you have at least hopefully found some comfort in being here, despite everything. Though we may come from different circumstances, I am glad to have gotten to know you, Vicious. Why, your name barely makes any sense with your demeanor considered!
[She can tease a little. As a treat.]
Peaceful for now, I imagine. [Hina's perpetual optimism seems to die off here, look going a little more serious.] I would not be surprised if the scarcity makes many people become enemies. It is my hope that perhaps more of this situation will make sense in time, but...I may well take you up on it, if you would not mind my asking for your protection.
...Without my powers, I'm largely defenseless, after all.
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Though hers likely aren't the exact same sort of power. Misfortune, she said. Maybe it's something to do with that, but it likely goes beyond just "bad luck".
Anyway, she moves on and Vicious is content to follow, though he does scoff at her remark about his name.]
Count yourself lucky you've landed on my good side!
[She gave him booze, so she's already doing better than like, everyone else. The bar is in hell.
But her look goes more serious, and he takes another long sip of his drink as he considers that.]
Yeah, you're likely right. We've gotta worry less 'bout monsters an' more 'bout people. Could be way worse, since people are usually more clever. An' the scarcity's gonna cause problems - can't imagine everyone would be workin' together to overcome it. Someone's always gotta come out on top, y'know.
[And it'd be stupid not to take advantage of a difficult situation like this. It's why he was so surprised when she wanted so little in return for the booze; people will always profit off of misfortune, after all.]
I don't mind at all. All I ask's that you share any more booze you get your hands on!
[He laughs at that, but it is definitely not a joke.]
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Indeed. The golems that wander this place may bring us food in specific circumstances, but I have noticed a certain favoritism among some of them. I...would not be surprised if that ends up exploited; all we can do is do everything we can to stay safe. Be on top in our own way, so to speak.
[Of course, they both know Hina will go above and beyond if she sees someone who needs help. But that's all the more reason to want to rely on Vicious a bit; she wants to keep him safe of course, but he's certainly quite strong. Maybe she won't have to worry here, and...it's at least nice to be among someone who understands.]
You've got yourself a deal, Vicious. I'll see if I cannot bribe one of those golems into granting me a key to gather more, but you've my word that I gladly will! It's only right to repay you for your kindness, and the luck of getting on that good side of yours.
[It's kind of adorable. Hina will take another swig from her glass though, smiling gently as she lets herself relax a bit after the jumpscare.]
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[His is also iron, so that's... nice? But he has barely spent any time in that room because it's so opulent. It's weird. He doesn't like or trust it.]
Hah, that's what I like to hear! I need the booze more than I need the food!
[This may literally be true. I'm not convinced Vicious needs to eat.]
I do plan on keepin' an eye on people here, just to see how things are goin'. So I guess I'll let ya know if I see anythin' interestin' too.
[He would have zero problems with exchanging sex for food, and food for more booze, but he is not aware that's a thing just yet.]
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