Here I am again~

13+ Ask blog for Noir from ISWM! Rp threads and M!As are allowed! Current event: Coal & Ruby

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

🚬[INTRO]🥃

(This Noir is a member/alter of the Xenoverse system)

*The atmosphere looked different. Everything had lost its colors and the sound of everything was so smooth. An office, not too messy yet not too clean, had its door ajar, a man sitting by his office table inside, a gramophone playing a soft and jazzy tune.

The man with the fedora notices you, giving you a soft smirk before speaking.*

You've arrived. That's good. I was about to start monologuing, but I suppose having some company never hurts.

Make yourself comfortable, and ask away~

Name (that he goes by): Noir

Age: ???

Height: 5'11"

Pronouns: He/They/Xe

Orientation: Nonbinary bisexual

(We are collectively 19 so minors please be aware and be careful.)

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...It's over...

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Don't join him he is lying, you have no idea what you are joining

My last chance, that's what I'm joining.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

. . .

. . .It's not as bad as I thought. . .

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hey noir you wanna hide at my place?

I'll be fine. Besides, remember my color problem.

[shadowproxy22]

So I suppose you wouldn’t want this ring I had made for you so you could be able to walk into Colored places unharmed?

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Shadow, I appreciate it but if I'm a target, I don't it's a good idea. That I endanger you or anyone else.

I'll be fine.

[shadowproxy22]

 we’re all targets of night! He’s already got Actor and Author and even dark on his side! if he gets you we’ll be really screwed!

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

He's not going to get everyone. I know that.

That means that whoever remains can find a way to free us.

I am not risking anyone else.

Leave.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hey noir you wanna hide at my place?

I'll be fine. Besides, remember my color problem.

[shadowproxy22]

So I suppose you wouldn’t want this ring I had made for you so you could be able to walk into Colored places unharmed?

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Shadow, I appreciate it but if I'm a target, I don't it's a good idea. That I endanger you or anyone else.

I'll be fine.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hey noir you wanna hide at my place?

I'll be fine. Besides, remember my color problem.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Noir, has the darkness affected you? Or even reached you?

It has reached my main office. Fortunately, I have a basement so I'm there. The bad news, it's reaching here.

It's near.

[ask-nyx-the-guardian]

(Ooc; hey y'all! We will be reviving this blog, but with a few changes. Nyx will be more of an OC rather than a Markiplier ego OC, and more of their lore and art will be revealed. But do not worry, they also remain as a crystal guardian. Hope y'all look forward to it!)

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

"Hey silver tongue... Pleasure to meetcha."

Sinclair sat on Noir's desk, swinging his legs.

"Humour me a bit, what was it like, getting to kill Dark twice?"

@puppeteered-poetry

Why would you want to know?

*The shade of xir's hat covered xir's eyes, but xir's hardened expression showed how upset he still was.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Morbid curiosity, potential planning... You know." Sinclair grinned.

"Oh, I adore your whole... Everything. Love the aesthetic. The grief of loss just... Suits your face so well. Makes me wish I was a painter." He held his fingers out, as if framing Noir in a picture, closing one eye to make it work better.

"Anyway... Was it fun? Did they bleed? Shatter? They've got that whole glass theme going on, I've been so curious."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*That really ticked xir off. Xe gripped hard Sinclair's shirt by the collar, one eye more visible and intense under the shade of xir's hat.*

You actually find my pain amusing to you? Entertaining, even?

*For a split second, xe had seemed to glitch into two people before it was gone as fast as it came.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Woah, hey now. Don't be so upset... Perhaps I didn't articulate myself properly." Sinclair plucked Noir's hand off of him, dusting off his shirt.

"Jesus... Touchy subject... What I mean is... I'm something of an artistically inclined man. I like stories. Your expression tells me a story I'd just love to hear. I mean... You had everything! And then a few bastards knocked the wind out of your sails so hard you've given up."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...

*Xe sat back down on xir's chair, crossing xir's arms.*

They were not just some bastards. They were both deities much stronger than you and me.

Necromancer and Annus.

Especially Annus. The God above Gods.

...I was so damn close...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"And now what? Do you just sit here, grieving? Do you plot your revenge? Do you want to move on?" Sinclair got off the desk, plopping down on one of the chairs across from Noir.

"Must be hard, right? Living with yourself after all the sacrifices you made, all for absolutely fucking nothing."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

You fucking think?

*Xe sighed as xe snapped whiskey glasses for the both of them.*

...What is it that you're looking for?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"A story, if you're willing. What would you do if you could try it all again?"

Sinclair raised his glass at Noir, before sipping quietly.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

To not be so damn vulnerable and trusting.

I let my guard down when I had it all, and that was my doom. That ruined everything.

I should have never opened my damn doors.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"What a shame that is... What now? Do you wish to make them pay for their wrongdoings? To suffer? Or do you languish here, sad and alone?" He was trying not to smile, getting a twisted enjoyment of analyzing Noir closely.

"... And how does it feel to work for your Warden?" Sinclair continued, hoping that might strike a nerve.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Warden?

*The glitched happened again, two individuals looking at Sinclair. One with a worried look while the other had an enraged expression. Both individuals looked familiar before they disappeared.*

Warden?

I dare you to say that again.

I am no one's prisoner.

Do you understand?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Easy there, hotshot. You very much were Dark's prisoner for a while there. Calm down." Sinclair scoffed.

"And now you're under their little shitshow production company. That's Bim's doing, I'm sure, but... Still. It must be humbling."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't work there because I have to, but because I want to. I found a passion I didn't know I had in that place. Something peaceful, and drives my mind away from the stress of ruling everything.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"No matter how you spin it, you're back under their thumb, buddy." Sinclair chugged the rest of his glass down.

"Wouldn't you like to fix that? Give them a piece of your mind? After all, what's a demon to a god? And you were very much so a god... You're stronger than them." He flicked Noir's hat brim, grinning. "Use that pretty little head of yours, Noir."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked annoyed by Sinclair's casual behavior towards all this before he let out a heavy sigh.*

It won't even matter. I killed them before, and they will just come back like before.

Besides, I have to stay low for a bit. There's a God out there, much more powerful then you and me, who's not happy with all my doings.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Annus right? Man, you're screwed!" Sinclair's laugh was boisterous.

"I guess I'm in the same boat, but... I really just can't bring myself to care."

Sinclair cleared his throat, getting up to pace, a casual saunter around Noir's office, hands in his pockets.

"I've got some good news for you, though. I've got a plan for Dark. They're not gonna know what hit them."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

And you think Annus is not going to get in the way? They will be more alert now that they are awake.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You honestly want me to give a shit? No matter how we spin it, I'm going to get my way. Dark will die, that little middle part where I get my worshippers back, and I can get my old life back! Simple, sweet, efficient."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

How though?

They will stop you.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You're awfully worried about this! Why, got a crush on me?" Sinclair teased.

"Relax, discount Columbo, I've got this all under control. I'll just... Put them back to sleep. Easy peasy. Besides, what do they care if I knock out a measly little demon, huh?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Wh- Of course not!

*Noir became pretty flustered at Sinclair's teasing before xe cleared xir's throat and then spoke.*

Okay genius, then enlight me. How are you supposed to stop a God of Gods from getting in your way of revenge? Because they will. They are the reason why Dark went to their void and slept to recover. Annus is not going to stand aside if you try to cause havoc too.

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair burst into laughter at Noir's reaction, doubling over as he wheezed. He finally calmed down enough to be coherent, wiping his eyes.

"Oh, priceless reaction, pretty thing... Why would a god of Gods give a shit about them, anyway? They're really inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things." Sinclair yawned.

"I'm not going to do some grandiose world ending scheme like you, I just want a little revenge and my old life back. I'm sure they'll understand."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hm, right. Don't come to me all enraged as if I didn't warned you if they get in the way.

They are the end of chaos. After everything that happened, I'm sure they will be more alert and will put a stop to even smaller situations. Especially since Dark helped protect reality. Annus is probably in debt now.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Huh ... Is that so?" Sinclair raised an eyebrow. "A god indebted to a little demon... That's amusing."

Sinclair mulled over his chances, re-evaluating for this little detail.

"It really pisses me off, how they parade around like they're so good, acting out of their archetype..." He rolled his eyes. "Maybe I can dig up some dirt to smooth it over."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

On who? Because if you're thinking about getting to Annus then no God can help you, you know that right?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Christ, you're off your game, detective. Dirt on Dark! If I can spin their story to my favor, Annus is going to be thankful I got rid of them." Sinclair grinned, feeling confident about his chances.

"I get worshippers, my power grows, I rewrite their backstory, I kill them off, bam! Everything's coming up Sinclair."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Right.

And what if you don't end up convincing Annus, hm?

They manipulate life and death itself, Sinclair. If they want someone to live, they will live.

If they want someone to die...

*Xe looked at Sinclair dead in the eyes.*

They will...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You really think Annus is going to want me dead? What have I done wrong? I'm a writer, so I... Write! I'm doing exactly what it said on the tin."

Sinclair folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"You know, I don't appreciate all the doubt you e brought to the table, here."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

All I'm saying is that you're risking yourself too much.

One wrong move and they will imprison you. Understand?

Strip you from all your powers, Sinclair.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Then... I'll make the right moves. I'll get the help I need, do what I'm after, and get the hell out of dodge." Sinclair was detrimentally confident about this idea.

"Apollo and I are unstoppable. Trust me. We're not dead yet, that means we have a second shot."

Sinclair paused, thinking. "... And then, we'll find a place we can exist together, safe from all the miserable people on this dogshit rock."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't underestimate you, but...you are clearly underestimating a God much more powerful than you, Sinclair...

I had raw power. Everything in my hands.

...Look how quickly they took it all away...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"I empathize with you, I really do. Genuinely. Hell, I'd offer for you to come with us, if it wasn't like... Like a date sort of thing."

Sinclair yawned, standing up and placing a cold hand on Noir's shoulder.

"I'm not after a god. I'm after one miserable demon. I can take a demon. You can take a demon. It's going to turn in our favor... Maybe afterwards, we'll come and get you."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...You don't understand the importance of that demon...

...Even I wouldn't after them.

After observing what Annus has been doing...now I understand...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Understand what, exactly?" Sinclair squinted, trying to comprehend it better. "And... You did go after them, though. You won! You crushed their neck into shards of glass!"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

That was before all of this. Before he arrived and his curse fell upon us.

...Annus knows what Dark can do, and knows that they can find a weakness.

...A weakness to end this eternal darkness.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"... And how do you know this? Why would some pathetic, nothing demon be able to win against that fucking asshole?" Sinclair huffed.

"What, are they gonna bore him to death?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

No...

They will manipulate him and find a weakness.

That is all that is needed. A weakness...

...The darkness has already reached my place, Sinclair...

...I don't have much time...

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair folded his arms, silent.

"... Come with me." He offered his hand. "Maybe we can help each other."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked rather intrigued and confused. However, xe indeed took Sinclair's hand and followed.*

...You're not going to bring me to a place with color, right?

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

"Hey silver tongue... Pleasure to meetcha."

Sinclair sat on Noir's desk, swinging his legs.

"Humour me a bit, what was it like, getting to kill Dark twice?"

@puppeteered-poetry

Why would you want to know?

*The shade of xir's hat covered xir's eyes, but xir's hardened expression showed how upset he still was.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Morbid curiosity, potential planning... You know." Sinclair grinned.

"Oh, I adore your whole... Everything. Love the aesthetic. The grief of loss just... Suits your face so well. Makes me wish I was a painter." He held his fingers out, as if framing Noir in a picture, closing one eye to make it work better.

"Anyway... Was it fun? Did they bleed? Shatter? They've got that whole glass theme going on, I've been so curious."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*That really ticked xir off. Xe gripped hard Sinclair's shirt by the collar, one eye more visible and intense under the shade of xir's hat.*

You actually find my pain amusing to you? Entertaining, even?

*For a split second, xe had seemed to glitch into two people before it was gone as fast as it came.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Woah, hey now. Don't be so upset... Perhaps I didn't articulate myself properly." Sinclair plucked Noir's hand off of him, dusting off his shirt.

"Jesus... Touchy subject... What I mean is... I'm something of an artistically inclined man. I like stories. Your expression tells me a story I'd just love to hear. I mean... You had everything! And then a few bastards knocked the wind out of your sails so hard you've given up."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...

*Xe sat back down on xir's chair, crossing xir's arms.*

They were not just some bastards. They were both deities much stronger than you and me.

Necromancer and Annus.

Especially Annus. The God above Gods.

...I was so damn close...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"And now what? Do you just sit here, grieving? Do you plot your revenge? Do you want to move on?" Sinclair got off the desk, plopping down on one of the chairs across from Noir.

"Must be hard, right? Living with yourself after all the sacrifices you made, all for absolutely fucking nothing."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

You fucking think?

*Xe sighed as xe snapped whiskey glasses for the both of them.*

...What is it that you're looking for?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"A story, if you're willing. What would you do if you could try it all again?"

Sinclair raised his glass at Noir, before sipping quietly.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

To not be so damn vulnerable and trusting.

I let my guard down when I had it all, and that was my doom. That ruined everything.

I should have never opened my damn doors.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"What a shame that is... What now? Do you wish to make them pay for their wrongdoings? To suffer? Or do you languish here, sad and alone?" He was trying not to smile, getting a twisted enjoyment of analyzing Noir closely.

"... And how does it feel to work for your Warden?" Sinclair continued, hoping that might strike a nerve.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Warden?

*The glitched happened again, two individuals looking at Sinclair. One with a worried look while the other had an enraged expression. Both individuals looked familiar before they disappeared.*

Warden?

I dare you to say that again.

I am no one's prisoner.

Do you understand?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Easy there, hotshot. You very much were Dark's prisoner for a while there. Calm down." Sinclair scoffed.

"And now you're under their little shitshow production company. That's Bim's doing, I'm sure, but... Still. It must be humbling."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't work there because I have to, but because I want to. I found a passion I didn't know I had in that place. Something peaceful, and drives my mind away from the stress of ruling everything.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"No matter how you spin it, you're back under their thumb, buddy." Sinclair chugged the rest of his glass down.

"Wouldn't you like to fix that? Give them a piece of your mind? After all, what's a demon to a god? And you were very much so a god... You're stronger than them." He flicked Noir's hat brim, grinning. "Use that pretty little head of yours, Noir."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked annoyed by Sinclair's casual behavior towards all this before he let out a heavy sigh.*

It won't even matter. I killed them before, and they will just come back like before.

Besides, I have to stay low for a bit. There's a God out there, much more powerful then you and me, who's not happy with all my doings.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Annus right? Man, you're screwed!" Sinclair's laugh was boisterous.

"I guess I'm in the same boat, but... I really just can't bring myself to care."

Sinclair cleared his throat, getting up to pace, a casual saunter around Noir's office, hands in his pockets.

"I've got some good news for you, though. I've got a plan for Dark. They're not gonna know what hit them."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

And you think Annus is not going to get in the way? They will be more alert now that they are awake.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You honestly want me to give a shit? No matter how we spin it, I'm going to get my way. Dark will die, that little middle part where I get my worshippers back, and I can get my old life back! Simple, sweet, efficient."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

How though?

They will stop you.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You're awfully worried about this! Why, got a crush on me?" Sinclair teased.

"Relax, discount Columbo, I've got this all under control. I'll just... Put them back to sleep. Easy peasy. Besides, what do they care if I knock out a measly little demon, huh?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Wh- Of course not!

*Noir became pretty flustered at Sinclair's teasing before xe cleared xir's throat and then spoke.*

Okay genius, then enlight me. How are you supposed to stop a God of Gods from getting in your way of revenge? Because they will. They are the reason why Dark went to their void and slept to recover. Annus is not going to stand aside if you try to cause havoc too.

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair burst into laughter at Noir's reaction, doubling over as he wheezed. He finally calmed down enough to be coherent, wiping his eyes.

"Oh, priceless reaction, pretty thing... Why would a god of Gods give a shit about them, anyway? They're really inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things." Sinclair yawned.

"I'm not going to do some grandiose world ending scheme like you, I just want a little revenge and my old life back. I'm sure they'll understand."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hm, right. Don't come to me all enraged as if I didn't warned you if they get in the way.

They are the end of chaos. After everything that happened, I'm sure they will be more alert and will put a stop to even smaller situations. Especially since Dark helped protect reality. Annus is probably in debt now.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Huh ... Is that so?" Sinclair raised an eyebrow. "A god indebted to a little demon... That's amusing."

Sinclair mulled over his chances, re-evaluating for this little detail.

"It really pisses me off, how they parade around like they're so good, acting out of their archetype..." He rolled his eyes. "Maybe I can dig up some dirt to smooth it over."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

On who? Because if you're thinking about getting to Annus then no God can help you, you know that right?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Christ, you're off your game, detective. Dirt on Dark! If I can spin their story to my favor, Annus is going to be thankful I got rid of them." Sinclair grinned, feeling confident about his chances.

"I get worshippers, my power grows, I rewrite their backstory, I kill them off, bam! Everything's coming up Sinclair."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Right.

And what if you don't end up convincing Annus, hm?

They manipulate life and death itself, Sinclair. If they want someone to live, they will live.

If they want someone to die...

*Xe looked at Sinclair dead in the eyes.*

They will...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You really think Annus is going to want me dead? What have I done wrong? I'm a writer, so I... Write! I'm doing exactly what it said on the tin."

Sinclair folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"You know, I don't appreciate all the doubt you e brought to the table, here."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

All I'm saying is that you're risking yourself too much.

One wrong move and they will imprison you. Understand?

Strip you from all your powers, Sinclair.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Then... I'll make the right moves. I'll get the help I need, do what I'm after, and get the hell out of dodge." Sinclair was detrimentally confident about this idea.

"Apollo and I are unstoppable. Trust me. We're not dead yet, that means we have a second shot."

Sinclair paused, thinking. "... And then, we'll find a place we can exist together, safe from all the miserable people on this dogshit rock."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't underestimate you, but...you are clearly underestimating a God much more powerful than you, Sinclair...

I had raw power. Everything in my hands.

...Look how quickly they took it all away...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"I empathize with you, I really do. Genuinely. Hell, I'd offer for you to come with us, if it wasn't like... Like a date sort of thing."

Sinclair yawned, standing up and placing a cold hand on Noir's shoulder.

"I'm not after a god. I'm after one miserable demon. I can take a demon. You can take a demon. It's going to turn in our favor... Maybe afterwards, we'll come and get you."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...You don't understand the importance of that demon...

...Even I wouldn't after them.

After observing what Annus has been doing...now I understand...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Understand what, exactly?" Sinclair squinted, trying to comprehend it better. "And... You did go after them, though. You won! You crushed their neck into shards of glass!"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

That was before all of this. Before he arrived and his curse fell upon us.

...Annus knows what Dark can do, and knows that they can find a weakness.

...A weakness to end this eternal darkness.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"... And how do you know this? Why would some pathetic, nothing demon be able to win against that fucking asshole?" Sinclair huffed.

"What, are they gonna bore him to death?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

No...

They will manipulate him and find a weakness.

That is all that is needed. A weakness...

...The darkness has already reached my place, Sinclair...

...I don't have much time...

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

"Hey silver tongue... Pleasure to meetcha."

Sinclair sat on Noir's desk, swinging his legs.

"Humour me a bit, what was it like, getting to kill Dark twice?"

@puppeteered-poetry

Why would you want to know?

*The shade of xir's hat covered xir's eyes, but xir's hardened expression showed how upset he still was.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Morbid curiosity, potential planning... You know." Sinclair grinned.

"Oh, I adore your whole... Everything. Love the aesthetic. The grief of loss just... Suits your face so well. Makes me wish I was a painter." He held his fingers out, as if framing Noir in a picture, closing one eye to make it work better.

"Anyway... Was it fun? Did they bleed? Shatter? They've got that whole glass theme going on, I've been so curious."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*That really ticked xir off. Xe gripped hard Sinclair's shirt by the collar, one eye more visible and intense under the shade of xir's hat.*

You actually find my pain amusing to you? Entertaining, even?

*For a split second, xe had seemed to glitch into two people before it was gone as fast as it came.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Woah, hey now. Don't be so upset... Perhaps I didn't articulate myself properly." Sinclair plucked Noir's hand off of him, dusting off his shirt.

"Jesus... Touchy subject... What I mean is... I'm something of an artistically inclined man. I like stories. Your expression tells me a story I'd just love to hear. I mean... You had everything! And then a few bastards knocked the wind out of your sails so hard you've given up."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...

*Xe sat back down on xir's chair, crossing xir's arms.*

They were not just some bastards. They were both deities much stronger than you and me.

Necromancer and Annus.

Especially Annus. The God above Gods.

...I was so damn close...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"And now what? Do you just sit here, grieving? Do you plot your revenge? Do you want to move on?" Sinclair got off the desk, plopping down on one of the chairs across from Noir.

"Must be hard, right? Living with yourself after all the sacrifices you made, all for absolutely fucking nothing."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

You fucking think?

*Xe sighed as xe snapped whiskey glasses for the both of them.*

...What is it that you're looking for?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"A story, if you're willing. What would you do if you could try it all again?"

Sinclair raised his glass at Noir, before sipping quietly.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

To not be so damn vulnerable and trusting.

I let my guard down when I had it all, and that was my doom. That ruined everything.

I should have never opened my damn doors.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"What a shame that is... What now? Do you wish to make them pay for their wrongdoings? To suffer? Or do you languish here, sad and alone?" He was trying not to smile, getting a twisted enjoyment of analyzing Noir closely.

"... And how does it feel to work for your Warden?" Sinclair continued, hoping that might strike a nerve.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Warden?

*The glitched happened again, two individuals looking at Sinclair. One with a worried look while the other had an enraged expression. Both individuals looked familiar before they disappeared.*

Warden?

I dare you to say that again.

I am no one's prisoner.

Do you understand?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Easy there, hotshot. You very much were Dark's prisoner for a while there. Calm down." Sinclair scoffed.

"And now you're under their little shitshow production company. That's Bim's doing, I'm sure, but... Still. It must be humbling."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't work there because I have to, but because I want to. I found a passion I didn't know I had in that place. Something peaceful, and drives my mind away from the stress of ruling everything.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"No matter how you spin it, you're back under their thumb, buddy." Sinclair chugged the rest of his glass down.

"Wouldn't you like to fix that? Give them a piece of your mind? After all, what's a demon to a god? And you were very much so a god... You're stronger than them." He flicked Noir's hat brim, grinning. "Use that pretty little head of yours, Noir."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked annoyed by Sinclair's casual behavior towards all this before he let out a heavy sigh.*

It won't even matter. I killed them before, and they will just come back like before.

Besides, I have to stay low for a bit. There's a God out there, much more powerful then you and me, who's not happy with all my doings.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Annus right? Man, you're screwed!" Sinclair's laugh was boisterous.

"I guess I'm in the same boat, but... I really just can't bring myself to care."

Sinclair cleared his throat, getting up to pace, a casual saunter around Noir's office, hands in his pockets.

"I've got some good news for you, though. I've got a plan for Dark. They're not gonna know what hit them."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

And you think Annus is not going to get in the way? They will be more alert now that they are awake.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You honestly want me to give a shit? No matter how we spin it, I'm going to get my way. Dark will die, that little middle part where I get my worshippers back, and I can get my old life back! Simple, sweet, efficient."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

How though?

They will stop you.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You're awfully worried about this! Why, got a crush on me?" Sinclair teased.

"Relax, discount Columbo, I've got this all under control. I'll just... Put them back to sleep. Easy peasy. Besides, what do they care if I knock out a measly little demon, huh?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Wh- Of course not!

*Noir became pretty flustered at Sinclair's teasing before xe cleared xir's throat and then spoke.*

Okay genius, then enlight me. How are you supposed to stop a God of Gods from getting in your way of revenge? Because they will. They are the reason why Dark went to their void and slept to recover. Annus is not going to stand aside if you try to cause havoc too.

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair burst into laughter at Noir's reaction, doubling over as he wheezed. He finally calmed down enough to be coherent, wiping his eyes.

"Oh, priceless reaction, pretty thing... Why would a god of Gods give a shit about them, anyway? They're really inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things." Sinclair yawned.

"I'm not going to do some grandiose world ending scheme like you, I just want a little revenge and my old life back. I'm sure they'll understand."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hm, right. Don't come to me all enraged as if I didn't warned you if they get in the way.

They are the end of chaos. After everything that happened, I'm sure they will be more alert and will put a stop to even smaller situations. Especially since Dark helped protect reality. Annus is probably in debt now.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Huh ... Is that so?" Sinclair raised an eyebrow. "A god indebted to a little demon... That's amusing."

Sinclair mulled over his chances, re-evaluating for this little detail.

"It really pisses me off, how they parade around like they're so good, acting out of their archetype..." He rolled his eyes. "Maybe I can dig up some dirt to smooth it over."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

On who? Because if you're thinking about getting to Annus then no God can help you, you know that right?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Christ, you're off your game, detective. Dirt on Dark! If I can spin their story to my favor, Annus is going to be thankful I got rid of them." Sinclair grinned, feeling confident about his chances.

"I get worshippers, my power grows, I rewrite their backstory, I kill them off, bam! Everything's coming up Sinclair."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Right.

And what if you don't end up convincing Annus, hm?

They manipulate life and death itself, Sinclair. If they want someone to live, they will live.

If they want someone to die...

*Xe looked at Sinclair dead in the eyes.*

They will...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You really think Annus is going to want me dead? What have I done wrong? I'm a writer, so I... Write! I'm doing exactly what it said on the tin."

Sinclair folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"You know, I don't appreciate all the doubt you e brought to the table, here."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

All I'm saying is that you're risking yourself too much.

One wrong move and they will imprison you. Understand?

Strip you from all your powers, Sinclair.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Then... I'll make the right moves. I'll get the help I need, do what I'm after, and get the hell out of dodge." Sinclair was detrimentally confident about this idea.

"Apollo and I are unstoppable. Trust me. We're not dead yet, that means we have a second shot."

Sinclair paused, thinking. "... And then, we'll find a place we can exist together, safe from all the miserable people on this dogshit rock."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't underestimate you, but...you are clearly underestimating a God much more powerful than you, Sinclair...

I had raw power. Everything in my hands.

...Look how quickly they took it all away...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"I empathize with you, I really do. Genuinely. Hell, I'd offer for you to come with us, if it wasn't like... Like a date sort of thing."

Sinclair yawned, standing up and placing a cold hand on Noir's shoulder.

"I'm not after a god. I'm after one miserable demon. I can take a demon. You can take a demon. It's going to turn in our favor... Maybe afterwards, we'll come and get you."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...You don't understand the importance of that demon...

...Even I wouldn't after them.

After observing what Annus has been doing...now I understand...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Understand what, exactly?" Sinclair squinted, trying to comprehend it better. "And... You did go after them, though. You won! You crushed their neck into shards of glass!"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

That was before all of this. Before he arrived and his curse fell upon us.

...Annus knows what Dark can do, and knows that they can find a weakness.

...A weakness to end this eternal darkness.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

"Hey silver tongue... Pleasure to meetcha."

Sinclair sat on Noir's desk, swinging his legs.

"Humour me a bit, what was it like, getting to kill Dark twice?"

@puppeteered-poetry

Why would you want to know?

*The shade of xir's hat covered xir's eyes, but xir's hardened expression showed how upset he still was.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Morbid curiosity, potential planning... You know." Sinclair grinned.

"Oh, I adore your whole... Everything. Love the aesthetic. The grief of loss just... Suits your face so well. Makes me wish I was a painter." He held his fingers out, as if framing Noir in a picture, closing one eye to make it work better.

"Anyway... Was it fun? Did they bleed? Shatter? They've got that whole glass theme going on, I've been so curious."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*That really ticked xir off. Xe gripped hard Sinclair's shirt by the collar, one eye more visible and intense under the shade of xir's hat.*

You actually find my pain amusing to you? Entertaining, even?

*For a split second, xe had seemed to glitch into two people before it was gone as fast as it came.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Woah, hey now. Don't be so upset... Perhaps I didn't articulate myself properly." Sinclair plucked Noir's hand off of him, dusting off his shirt.

"Jesus... Touchy subject... What I mean is... I'm something of an artistically inclined man. I like stories. Your expression tells me a story I'd just love to hear. I mean... You had everything! And then a few bastards knocked the wind out of your sails so hard you've given up."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...

*Xe sat back down on xir's chair, crossing xir's arms.*

They were not just some bastards. They were both deities much stronger than you and me.

Necromancer and Annus.

Especially Annus. The God above Gods.

...I was so damn close...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"And now what? Do you just sit here, grieving? Do you plot your revenge? Do you want to move on?" Sinclair got off the desk, plopping down on one of the chairs across from Noir.

"Must be hard, right? Living with yourself after all the sacrifices you made, all for absolutely fucking nothing."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

You fucking think?

*Xe sighed as xe snapped whiskey glasses for the both of them.*

...What is it that you're looking for?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"A story, if you're willing. What would you do if you could try it all again?"

Sinclair raised his glass at Noir, before sipping quietly.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

To not be so damn vulnerable and trusting.

I let my guard down when I had it all, and that was my doom. That ruined everything.

I should have never opened my damn doors.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"What a shame that is... What now? Do you wish to make them pay for their wrongdoings? To suffer? Or do you languish here, sad and alone?" He was trying not to smile, getting a twisted enjoyment of analyzing Noir closely.

"... And how does it feel to work for your Warden?" Sinclair continued, hoping that might strike a nerve.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Warden?

*The glitched happened again, two individuals looking at Sinclair. One with a worried look while the other had an enraged expression. Both individuals looked familiar before they disappeared.*

Warden?

I dare you to say that again.

I am no one's prisoner.

Do you understand?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Easy there, hotshot. You very much were Dark's prisoner for a while there. Calm down." Sinclair scoffed.

"And now you're under their little shitshow production company. That's Bim's doing, I'm sure, but... Still. It must be humbling."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't work there because I have to, but because I want to. I found a passion I didn't know I had in that place. Something peaceful, and drives my mind away from the stress of ruling everything.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"No matter how you spin it, you're back under their thumb, buddy." Sinclair chugged the rest of his glass down.

"Wouldn't you like to fix that? Give them a piece of your mind? After all, what's a demon to a god? And you were very much so a god... You're stronger than them." He flicked Noir's hat brim, grinning. "Use that pretty little head of yours, Noir."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked annoyed by Sinclair's casual behavior towards all this before he let out a heavy sigh.*

It won't even matter. I killed them before, and they will just come back like before.

Besides, I have to stay low for a bit. There's a God out there, much more powerful then you and me, who's not happy with all my doings.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Annus right? Man, you're screwed!" Sinclair's laugh was boisterous.

"I guess I'm in the same boat, but... I really just can't bring myself to care."

Sinclair cleared his throat, getting up to pace, a casual saunter around Noir's office, hands in his pockets.

"I've got some good news for you, though. I've got a plan for Dark. They're not gonna know what hit them."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

And you think Annus is not going to get in the way? They will be more alert now that they are awake.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You honestly want me to give a shit? No matter how we spin it, I'm going to get my way. Dark will die, that little middle part where I get my worshippers back, and I can get my old life back! Simple, sweet, efficient."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

How though?

They will stop you.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You're awfully worried about this! Why, got a crush on me?" Sinclair teased.

"Relax, discount Columbo, I've got this all under control. I'll just... Put them back to sleep. Easy peasy. Besides, what do they care if I knock out a measly little demon, huh?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Wh- Of course not!

*Noir became pretty flustered at Sinclair's teasing before xe cleared xir's throat and then spoke.*

Okay genius, then enlight me. How are you supposed to stop a God of Gods from getting in your way of revenge? Because they will. They are the reason why Dark went to their void and slept to recover. Annus is not going to stand aside if you try to cause havoc too.

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair burst into laughter at Noir's reaction, doubling over as he wheezed. He finally calmed down enough to be coherent, wiping his eyes.

"Oh, priceless reaction, pretty thing... Why would a god of Gods give a shit about them, anyway? They're really inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things." Sinclair yawned.

"I'm not going to do some grandiose world ending scheme like you, I just want a little revenge and my old life back. I'm sure they'll understand."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hm, right. Don't come to me all enraged as if I didn't warned you if they get in the way.

They are the end of chaos. After everything that happened, I'm sure they will be more alert and will put a stop to even smaller situations. Especially since Dark helped protect reality. Annus is probably in debt now.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Huh ... Is that so?" Sinclair raised an eyebrow. "A god indebted to a little demon... That's amusing."

Sinclair mulled over his chances, re-evaluating for this little detail.

"It really pisses me off, how they parade around like they're so good, acting out of their archetype..." He rolled his eyes. "Maybe I can dig up some dirt to smooth it over."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

On who? Because if you're thinking about getting to Annus then no God can help you, you know that right?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Christ, you're off your game, detective. Dirt on Dark! If I can spin their story to my favor, Annus is going to be thankful I got rid of them." Sinclair grinned, feeling confident about his chances.

"I get worshippers, my power grows, I rewrite their backstory, I kill them off, bam! Everything's coming up Sinclair."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Right.

And what if you don't end up convincing Annus, hm?

They manipulate life and death itself, Sinclair. If they want someone to live, they will live.

If they want someone to die...

*Xe looked at Sinclair dead in the eyes.*

They will...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You really think Annus is going to want me dead? What have I done wrong? I'm a writer, so I... Write! I'm doing exactly what it said on the tin."

Sinclair folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"You know, I don't appreciate all the doubt you e brought to the table, here."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

All I'm saying is that you're risking yourself too much.

One wrong move and they will imprison you. Understand?

Strip you from all your powers, Sinclair.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Then... I'll make the right moves. I'll get the help I need, do what I'm after, and get the hell out of dodge." Sinclair was detrimentally confident about this idea.

"Apollo and I are unstoppable. Trust me. We're not dead yet, that means we have a second shot."

Sinclair paused, thinking. "... And then, we'll find a place we can exist together, safe from all the miserable people on this dogshit rock."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't underestimate you, but...you are clearly underestimating a God much more powerful than you, Sinclair...

I had raw power. Everything in my hands.

...Look how quickly they took it all away...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"I empathize with you, I really do. Genuinely. Hell, I'd offer for you to come with us, if it wasn't like... Like a date sort of thing."

Sinclair yawned, standing up and placing a cold hand on Noir's shoulder.

"I'm not after a god. I'm after one miserable demon. I can take a demon. You can take a demon. It's going to turn in our favor... Maybe afterwards, we'll come and get you."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...You don't understand the importance of that demon...

...Even I wouldn't after them.

After observing what Annus has been doing...now I understand...

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

"Hey silver tongue... Pleasure to meetcha."

Sinclair sat on Noir's desk, swinging his legs.

"Humour me a bit, what was it like, getting to kill Dark twice?"

@puppeteered-poetry

Why would you want to know?

*The shade of xir's hat covered xir's eyes, but xir's hardened expression showed how upset he still was.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Morbid curiosity, potential planning... You know." Sinclair grinned.

"Oh, I adore your whole... Everything. Love the aesthetic. The grief of loss just... Suits your face so well. Makes me wish I was a painter." He held his fingers out, as if framing Noir in a picture, closing one eye to make it work better.

"Anyway... Was it fun? Did they bleed? Shatter? They've got that whole glass theme going on, I've been so curious."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*That really ticked xir off. Xe gripped hard Sinclair's shirt by the collar, one eye more visible and intense under the shade of xir's hat.*

You actually find my pain amusing to you? Entertaining, even?

*For a split second, xe had seemed to glitch into two people before it was gone as fast as it came.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Woah, hey now. Don't be so upset... Perhaps I didn't articulate myself properly." Sinclair plucked Noir's hand off of him, dusting off his shirt.

"Jesus... Touchy subject... What I mean is... I'm something of an artistically inclined man. I like stories. Your expression tells me a story I'd just love to hear. I mean... You had everything! And then a few bastards knocked the wind out of your sails so hard you've given up."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...

*Xe sat back down on xir's chair, crossing xir's arms.*

They were not just some bastards. They were both deities much stronger than you and me.

Necromancer and Annus.

Especially Annus. The God above Gods.

...I was so damn close...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"And now what? Do you just sit here, grieving? Do you plot your revenge? Do you want to move on?" Sinclair got off the desk, plopping down on one of the chairs across from Noir.

"Must be hard, right? Living with yourself after all the sacrifices you made, all for absolutely fucking nothing."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

You fucking think?

*Xe sighed as xe snapped whiskey glasses for the both of them.*

...What is it that you're looking for?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"A story, if you're willing. What would you do if you could try it all again?"

Sinclair raised his glass at Noir, before sipping quietly.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

To not be so damn vulnerable and trusting.

I let my guard down when I had it all, and that was my doom. That ruined everything.

I should have never opened my damn doors.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"What a shame that is... What now? Do you wish to make them pay for their wrongdoings? To suffer? Or do you languish here, sad and alone?" He was trying not to smile, getting a twisted enjoyment of analyzing Noir closely.

"... And how does it feel to work for your Warden?" Sinclair continued, hoping that might strike a nerve.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Warden?

*The glitched happened again, two individuals looking at Sinclair. One with a worried look while the other had an enraged expression. Both individuals looked familiar before they disappeared.*

Warden?

I dare you to say that again.

I am no one's prisoner.

Do you understand?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Easy there, hotshot. You very much were Dark's prisoner for a while there. Calm down." Sinclair scoffed.

"And now you're under their little shitshow production company. That's Bim's doing, I'm sure, but... Still. It must be humbling."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't work there because I have to, but because I want to. I found a passion I didn't know I had in that place. Something peaceful, and drives my mind away from the stress of ruling everything.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"No matter how you spin it, you're back under their thumb, buddy." Sinclair chugged the rest of his glass down.

"Wouldn't you like to fix that? Give them a piece of your mind? After all, what's a demon to a god? And you were very much so a god... You're stronger than them." He flicked Noir's hat brim, grinning. "Use that pretty little head of yours, Noir."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked annoyed by Sinclair's casual behavior towards all this before he let out a heavy sigh.*

It won't even matter. I killed them before, and they will just come back like before.

Besides, I have to stay low for a bit. There's a God out there, much more powerful then you and me, who's not happy with all my doings.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Annus right? Man, you're screwed!" Sinclair's laugh was boisterous.

"I guess I'm in the same boat, but... I really just can't bring myself to care."

Sinclair cleared his throat, getting up to pace, a casual saunter around Noir's office, hands in his pockets.

"I've got some good news for you, though. I've got a plan for Dark. They're not gonna know what hit them."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

And you think Annus is not going to get in the way? They will be more alert now that they are awake.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You honestly want me to give a shit? No matter how we spin it, I'm going to get my way. Dark will die, that little middle part where I get my worshippers back, and I can get my old life back! Simple, sweet, efficient."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

How though?

They will stop you.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You're awfully worried about this! Why, got a crush on me?" Sinclair teased.

"Relax, discount Columbo, I've got this all under control. I'll just... Put them back to sleep. Easy peasy. Besides, what do they care if I knock out a measly little demon, huh?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Wh- Of course not!

*Noir became pretty flustered at Sinclair's teasing before xe cleared xir's throat and then spoke.*

Okay genius, then enlight me. How are you supposed to stop a God of Gods from getting in your way of revenge? Because they will. They are the reason why Dark went to their void and slept to recover. Annus is not going to stand aside if you try to cause havoc too.

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair burst into laughter at Noir's reaction, doubling over as he wheezed. He finally calmed down enough to be coherent, wiping his eyes.

"Oh, priceless reaction, pretty thing... Why would a god of Gods give a shit about them, anyway? They're really inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things." Sinclair yawned.

"I'm not going to do some grandiose world ending scheme like you, I just want a little revenge and my old life back. I'm sure they'll understand."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hm, right. Don't come to me all enraged as if I didn't warned you if they get in the way.

They are the end of chaos. After everything that happened, I'm sure they will be more alert and will put a stop to even smaller situations. Especially since Dark helped protect reality. Annus is probably in debt now.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Huh ... Is that so?" Sinclair raised an eyebrow. "A god indebted to a little demon... That's amusing."

Sinclair mulled over his chances, re-evaluating for this little detail.

"It really pisses me off, how they parade around like they're so good, acting out of their archetype..." He rolled his eyes. "Maybe I can dig up some dirt to smooth it over."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

On who? Because if you're thinking about getting to Annus then no God can help you, you know that right?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Christ, you're off your game, detective. Dirt on Dark! If I can spin their story to my favor, Annus is going to be thankful I got rid of them." Sinclair grinned, feeling confident about his chances.

"I get worshippers, my power grows, I rewrite their backstory, I kill them off, bam! Everything's coming up Sinclair."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Right.

And what if you don't end up convincing Annus, hm?

They manipulate life and death itself, Sinclair. If they want someone to live, they will live.

If they want someone to die...

*Xe looked at Sinclair dead in the eyes.*

They will...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You really think Annus is going to want me dead? What have I done wrong? I'm a writer, so I... Write! I'm doing exactly what it said on the tin."

Sinclair folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"You know, I don't appreciate all the doubt you e brought to the table, here."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

All I'm saying is that you're risking yourself too much.

One wrong move and they will imprison you. Understand?

Strip you from all your powers, Sinclair.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Then... I'll make the right moves. I'll get the help I need, do what I'm after, and get the hell out of dodge." Sinclair was detrimentally confident about this idea.

"Apollo and I are unstoppable. Trust me. We're not dead yet, that means we have a second shot."

Sinclair paused, thinking. "... And then, we'll find a place we can exist together, safe from all the miserable people on this dogshit rock."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't underestimate you, but...you are clearly underestimating a God much more powerful than you, Sinclair...

I had raw power. Everything in my hands.

...Look how quickly they took it all away...

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

"Hey silver tongue... Pleasure to meetcha."

Sinclair sat on Noir's desk, swinging his legs.

"Humour me a bit, what was it like, getting to kill Dark twice?"

@puppeteered-poetry

Why would you want to know?

*The shade of xir's hat covered xir's eyes, but xir's hardened expression showed how upset he still was.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Morbid curiosity, potential planning... You know." Sinclair grinned.

"Oh, I adore your whole... Everything. Love the aesthetic. The grief of loss just... Suits your face so well. Makes me wish I was a painter." He held his fingers out, as if framing Noir in a picture, closing one eye to make it work better.

"Anyway... Was it fun? Did they bleed? Shatter? They've got that whole glass theme going on, I've been so curious."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*That really ticked xir off. Xe gripped hard Sinclair's shirt by the collar, one eye more visible and intense under the shade of xir's hat.*

You actually find my pain amusing to you? Entertaining, even?

*For a split second, xe had seemed to glitch into two people before it was gone as fast as it came.*

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Woah, hey now. Don't be so upset... Perhaps I didn't articulate myself properly." Sinclair plucked Noir's hand off of him, dusting off his shirt.

"Jesus... Touchy subject... What I mean is... I'm something of an artistically inclined man. I like stories. Your expression tells me a story I'd just love to hear. I mean... You had everything! And then a few bastards knocked the wind out of your sails so hard you've given up."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...

*Xe sat back down on xir's chair, crossing xir's arms.*

They were not just some bastards. They were both deities much stronger than you and me.

Necromancer and Annus.

Especially Annus. The God above Gods.

...I was so damn close...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"And now what? Do you just sit here, grieving? Do you plot your revenge? Do you want to move on?" Sinclair got off the desk, plopping down on one of the chairs across from Noir.

"Must be hard, right? Living with yourself after all the sacrifices you made, all for absolutely fucking nothing."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

You fucking think?

*Xe sighed as xe snapped whiskey glasses for the both of them.*

...What is it that you're looking for?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"A story, if you're willing. What would you do if you could try it all again?"

Sinclair raised his glass at Noir, before sipping quietly.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

To not be so damn vulnerable and trusting.

I let my guard down when I had it all, and that was my doom. That ruined everything.

I should have never opened my damn doors.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"What a shame that is... What now? Do you wish to make them pay for their wrongdoings? To suffer? Or do you languish here, sad and alone?" He was trying not to smile, getting a twisted enjoyment of analyzing Noir closely.

"... And how does it feel to work for your Warden?" Sinclair continued, hoping that might strike a nerve.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Warden?

*The glitched happened again, two individuals looking at Sinclair. One with a worried look while the other had an enraged expression. Both individuals looked familiar before they disappeared.*

Warden?

I dare you to say that again.

I am no one's prisoner.

Do you understand?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Easy there, hotshot. You very much were Dark's prisoner for a while there. Calm down." Sinclair scoffed.

"And now you're under their little shitshow production company. That's Bim's doing, I'm sure, but... Still. It must be humbling."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I don't work there because I have to, but because I want to. I found a passion I didn't know I had in that place. Something peaceful, and drives my mind away from the stress of ruling everything.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"No matter how you spin it, you're back under their thumb, buddy." Sinclair chugged the rest of his glass down.

"Wouldn't you like to fix that? Give them a piece of your mind? After all, what's a demon to a god? And you were very much so a god... You're stronger than them." He flicked Noir's hat brim, grinning. "Use that pretty little head of yours, Noir."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked annoyed by Sinclair's casual behavior towards all this before he let out a heavy sigh.*

It won't even matter. I killed them before, and they will just come back like before.

Besides, I have to stay low for a bit. There's a God out there, much more powerful then you and me, who's not happy with all my doings.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Annus right? Man, you're screwed!" Sinclair's laugh was boisterous.

"I guess I'm in the same boat, but... I really just can't bring myself to care."

Sinclair cleared his throat, getting up to pace, a casual saunter around Noir's office, hands in his pockets.

"I've got some good news for you, though. I've got a plan for Dark. They're not gonna know what hit them."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

And you think Annus is not going to get in the way? They will be more alert now that they are awake.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You honestly want me to give a shit? No matter how we spin it, I'm going to get my way. Dark will die, that little middle part where I get my worshippers back, and I can get my old life back! Simple, sweet, efficient."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

How though?

They will stop you.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You're awfully worried about this! Why, got a crush on me?" Sinclair teased.

"Relax, discount Columbo, I've got this all under control. I'll just... Put them back to sleep. Easy peasy. Besides, what do they care if I knock out a measly little demon, huh?"

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Wh- Of course not!

*Noir became pretty flustered at Sinclair's teasing before xe cleared xir's throat and then spoke.*

Okay genius, then enlight me. How are you supposed to stop a God of Gods from getting in your way of revenge? Because they will. They are the reason why Dark went to their void and slept to recover. Annus is not going to stand aside if you try to cause havoc too.

[puppeteered-poetry]

Sinclair burst into laughter at Noir's reaction, doubling over as he wheezed. He finally calmed down enough to be coherent, wiping his eyes.

"Oh, priceless reaction, pretty thing... Why would a god of Gods give a shit about them, anyway? They're really inconsequential, in the grand scheme of things." Sinclair yawned.

"I'm not going to do some grandiose world ending scheme like you, I just want a little revenge and my old life back. I'm sure they'll understand."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Hm, right. Don't come to me all enraged as if I didn't warned you if they get in the way.

They are the end of chaos. After everything that happened, I'm sure they will be more alert and will put a stop to even smaller situations. Especially since Dark helped protect reality. Annus is probably in debt now.

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Huh ... Is that so?" Sinclair raised an eyebrow. "A god indebted to a little demon... That's amusing."

Sinclair mulled over his chances, re-evaluating for this little detail.

"It really pisses me off, how they parade around like they're so good, acting out of their archetype..." He rolled his eyes. "Maybe I can dig up some dirt to smooth it over."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

On who? Because if you're thinking about getting to Annus then no God can help you, you know that right?

[puppeteered-poetry]

"Christ, you're off your game, detective. Dirt on Dark! If I can spin their story to my favor, Annus is going to be thankful I got rid of them." Sinclair grinned, feeling confident about his chances.

"I get worshippers, my power grows, I rewrite their backstory, I kill them off, bam! Everything's coming up Sinclair."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Right.

And what if you don't end up convincing Annus, hm?

They manipulate life and death itself, Sinclair. If they want someone to live, they will live.

If they want someone to die...

*Xe looked at Sinclair dead in the eyes.*

They will...

[puppeteered-poetry]

"You really think Annus is going to want me dead? What have I done wrong? I'm a writer, so I... Write! I'm doing exactly what it said on the tin."

Sinclair folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"You know, I don't appreciate all the doubt you e brought to the table, here."

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

All I'm saying is that you're risking yourself too much.

One wrong move and they will imprison you. Understand?

Strip you from all your powers, Sinclair.

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

...Hello, Mr. Trimmer.

@ask-noir-mark-iswm

...Noir. How's the whole "taking over the world" thing going?

[Bim seemed nervous. He didn't know how to react, honestly.]

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...I've accepted defeat.

I lost all crystals so...

...I lost.

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

Oh- well... You don't need to rule the world, anyway.

[He tried to cheer up Noir, and gently nudged xir arm.]

You were popular enough on my show that you might as well have ruled the fans, you know?

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

...Well...I was.

...I don't even have that chance anymore.

*Xe sighed, looking down as xe crossed xir's arms together.*

...Decades and decades of work...

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

Well... If I'm being honest, the two episodes where you sang? Those were the most popular episodes we've had on Hire My Ass for a long time.

[He watched xir cautiously.]

Instead of worrying about the time you lost, maybe you should think about what to do with the time you still have!

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Now xe looked a little confused.*

...You're telling me that after everything that I did, you're still okay with keeping me in your show?

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

[He hesitated, fidgeting with the hem of his sleeve nervously.]

Well... I know you're done with trying to steal all the crystals, so... there's no point in firing you.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

*Xe looked shocked and even a little...happy. Genuinely happy, something that was not common to see. However, xe quickly cleared xir's throat before lowering xir's head.*

...Thank you.

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

[Bim couldn't help but smile a bit at Noir's reaction. Even if he was still nervous around xir, he thought it was sweet that xe even wanted to be on his show.]

But... I'm gonna need you to promise that you'll be nice to your co-workers. I think they're still gonna be pretty nervous around you, at least for a while.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Of course. That's understandable.

*Xe offered Bim a hand to shake.*

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

[Bim smiled a bit and shook Noir's hand cheerfully.]

Perfect. Do you have any more songs picked out, or should we start trying to find some together?

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

I believe we'd have to search some. I haven't had the time nor the motivation to think of any until now.

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

Well... If I'm gonna be honest, you have a really nice voice, so we'll need to utilize that.

How would you feel about singing something like "La Vie En Rose"? It's a song by Louis Armstrong, do you know it?

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

If I ever said that I didn't, I either completely lost it or that is not me. I love that song!

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

Oh, me too! I thought it would suit you really well.

[Bim blushed a little bit.]

You have a suave personality, so something like that would work well... I think the biggest reason people liked your last performance was that they thought you were sexy.

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Well...I know I am.

*Xe chuckled smugly but in a jokingly tone.*

[bimtrimmerextraordinaireold]

[He grinned and gently nudged Noir's arm, chuckling quietly.]

Hey, there's that signature confidence! You'll be back in the rhythm of things in no time!

[ask-noir-mark-iswm]

Yeah...

...Yeah, I think I will...

[ask-the-trio-stranger-things]

🚬[INTRO]🍺

(This Steve, Eddie, and Billy are members of the Xenoverse system! This Billy is redeemed.)

*The three young men hung out at Steve's house while his parents were thankfully gone. After taking a few drags from some cigarettes and then enjoying some booze, Eddie remembered that he had learned a bit more about the internet thanks to Dustin.*

Yo, you two. What if we just, mess around and speak to people in the internet?

You mean like, random people?

Yep. I'm bored.

Isn't that going to get us in trouble?

Scared, Harrington?

No! I'm just saying.

Well, let's fuck around I guess.

Hell yeah!

(Tap/click the pic for better quality!)

(Eddie speaks like this!)

(Steve speaks like this!)

(Billy speaks like this!)

[askactormark]

(Ooc: HERE IS THE BLOG)