𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒆𝒕 𓏲𝄢

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒂 𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆. . .

scarlet ! ⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ 15, she/her

𓂃⋆.˚ in hell

𓂃⋆.˚ lonely. . .

𓂃⋆.˚ alastor has adopted me <3 i love my dad :)

. . .𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒇𝒂𝒘𝒏.

tags! #see into the trees; find the girl if you can - alastor #waiting for my only friend - gray #fed love from silver spoons; reasons to me grateful - maris #the radio's gone dead ya know! - ooc #am I the only thing that keeps you safe when the light is gone? - lore #if im going to hell i hope that you go too - lore #my heart is like a haunted house - death related lore

anons! 📼 📻 🎪

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[he tsks at her disapprovingly, shaking his head and frowning.]

Scarlet… oh, scarlet, people can lie and be just as smart as they were before. I’m not stupid and I’ve lied plenty of times.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-

But why would he lie? To me?

[She frowned at him.]

[its-a-movement]

Adults have their reasons. Not that I claim to know them.

[he sighs dramatically. It is obviously faked.]

But, if I had to guess, I’d assume it was for power. He’s always wanting more deals and more souls. I wouldn’t put it above him to manipulate a child for that. A crying shame, too, since you’re so nice.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She tilted her head at him - honestly rather confused. She didn't quite understand.]

I don't-. . . understand. But I'm not- I'm not important, or anything-. .

[its-a-movement]

A child in hell is important. You’re an easy target for him to sink his teeth into. I knew he was a piece of shit, but I never thought he’d sink this low.

[he chuckles and ruffles her hair.]

But, that’s the good thing about me being your friend, right? I can call it as I see it.

We are friends, aren’t we, scarlet?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She flinched away from him - very skittish about him raising his hand, but she didn't really have anywhere to go. He'd begun to remind her of her uncle. She didn't respond verbally - just a nod.]

. . . Do- do you know when Maris will be back?

[its-a-movement]

I don’t, unfortunately. A shame, though, I’d love to chat with her.

[he gets up, stretching. His back faintly pops and he winces.]

I need a favor from you. Since we’re friends and all, it shouldn’t be much trouble, right?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . .

What-. .what favor?

[She seemed a bit more timid now - bordering on nervous.]

[its-a-movement]

Your soul. I want it.

[he says it so naturally, as if he’d done this many times before.]

Either way, somebody is bound to own it eventually. Alastor would’ve gone after it, and pretty much every other overlord wants their it too.

[he crouches to her level, sticking out a hand. He was too happy about this- as if he was trying to make it sound decent.]

Think of it as a blessing, that I’d be the one to have it. Everyone else is just unpredictable.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She flinched at his hand again - taking a scoot back.]

Papa said-. . . not to give anyone anything, unless he was there, or even Maris, and- and he's not here and Maris isn't here-

[She frowned at him. She didn't like this one bit. The way she was sitting, she shifted to be sitting on her hands.]

[its-a-movement]

Scarlet, scarlet, scarlet… someone was going to make a deal eventually, regardless of your papas wishes.

[he chuckles. It’s sounds wrong now.]

I don’t think you understand who you’re talking to. Scarlet, souls are very important to me. Prized, even. Do you think I’d treat it like any asshole on the street?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . . Maris or Papa isn't here. We could- we could wait, until Maris gets back-?

I don't want Papa to get mad at me for not listening. That'd be bad. Really bad.

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[he tsks at her disapprovingly, shaking his head and frowning.]

Scarlet… oh, scarlet, people can lie and be just as smart as they were before. I’m not stupid and I’ve lied plenty of times.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-

But why would he lie? To me?

[She frowned at him.]

[its-a-movement]

Adults have their reasons. Not that I claim to know them.

[he sighs dramatically. It is obviously faked.]

But, if I had to guess, I’d assume it was for power. He’s always wanting more deals and more souls. I wouldn’t put it above him to manipulate a child for that. A crying shame, too, since you’re so nice.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She tilted her head at him - honestly rather confused. She didn't quite understand.]

I don't-. . . understand. But I'm not- I'm not important, or anything-. .

[its-a-movement]

A child in hell is important. You’re an easy target for him to sink his teeth into. I knew he was a piece of shit, but I never thought he’d sink this low.

[he chuckles and ruffles her hair.]

But, that’s the good thing about me being your friend, right? I can call it as I see it.

We are friends, aren’t we, scarlet?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She flinched away from him - very skittish about him raising his hand, but she didn't really have anywhere to go. He'd begun to remind her of her uncle. She didn't respond verbally - just a nod.]

. . . Do- do you know when Maris will be back?

[its-a-movement]

I don’t, unfortunately. A shame, though, I’d love to chat with her.

[he gets up, stretching. His back faintly pops and he winces.]

I need a favor from you. Since we’re friends and all, it shouldn’t be much trouble, right?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . .

What-. .what favor?

[She seemed a bit more timid now - bordering on nervous.]

[its-a-movement]

Your soul. I want it.

[he says it so naturally, as if he’d done this many times before.]

Either way, somebody is bound to own it eventually. Alastor would’ve gone after it, and pretty much every other overlord wants their it too.

[he crouches to her level, sticking out a hand. He was too happy about this- as if he was trying to make it sound decent.]

Think of it as a blessing, that I’d be the one to have it. Everyone else is just unpredictable.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She flinched at his hand again - taking a scoot back.]

Papa said-. . . not to give anyone anything, unless he was there, or even Maris, and- and he's not here and Maris isn't here-

[She frowned at him. She didn't like this one bit. The way she was sitting, she shifted to be sitting on her hands.]

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[he tsks at her disapprovingly, shaking his head and frowning.]

Scarlet… oh, scarlet, people can lie and be just as smart as they were before. I’m not stupid and I’ve lied plenty of times.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-

But why would he lie? To me?

[She frowned at him.]

[its-a-movement]

Adults have their reasons. Not that I claim to know them.

[he sighs dramatically. It is obviously faked.]

But, if I had to guess, I’d assume it was for power. He’s always wanting more deals and more souls. I wouldn’t put it above him to manipulate a child for that. A crying shame, too, since you’re so nice.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She tilted her head at him - honestly rather confused. She didn't quite understand.]

I don't-. . . understand. But I'm not- I'm not important, or anything-. .

[its-a-movement]

A child in hell is important. You’re an easy target for him to sink his teeth into. I knew he was a piece of shit, but I never thought he’d sink this low.

[he chuckles and ruffles her hair.]

But, that’s the good thing about me being your friend, right? I can call it as I see it.

We are friends, aren’t we, scarlet?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She flinched away from him - very skittish about him raising his hand, but she didn't really have anywhere to go. He'd begun to remind her of her uncle. She didn't respond verbally - just a nod.]

. . . Do- do you know when Maris will be back?

[its-a-movement]

I don’t, unfortunately. A shame, though, I’d love to chat with her.

[he gets up, stretching. His back faintly pops and he winces.]

I need a favor from you. Since we’re friends and all, it shouldn’t be much trouble, right?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . .

What-. .what favor?

[She seemed a bit more timid now - bordering on nervous.]

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[he tsks at her disapprovingly, shaking his head and frowning.]

Scarlet… oh, scarlet, people can lie and be just as smart as they were before. I’m not stupid and I’ve lied plenty of times.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-

But why would he lie? To me?

[She frowned at him.]

[its-a-movement]

Adults have their reasons. Not that I claim to know them.

[he sighs dramatically. It is obviously faked.]

But, if I had to guess, I’d assume it was for power. He’s always wanting more deals and more souls. I wouldn’t put it above him to manipulate a child for that. A crying shame, too, since you’re so nice.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She tilted her head at him - honestly rather confused. She didn't quite understand.]

I don't-. . . understand. But I'm not- I'm not important, or anything-. .

[its-a-movement]

A child in hell is important. You’re an easy target for him to sink his teeth into. I knew he was a piece of shit, but I never thought he’d sink this low.

[he chuckles and ruffles her hair.]

But, that’s the good thing about me being your friend, right? I can call it as I see it.

We are friends, aren’t we, scarlet?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She flinched away from him - very skittish about him raising his hand, but she didn't really have anywhere to go. He'd begun to remind her of her uncle. She didn't respond verbally - just a nod.]

. . . Do- do you know when Maris will be back?

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[he tsks at her disapprovingly, shaking his head and frowning.]

Scarlet… oh, scarlet, people can lie and be just as smart as they were before. I’m not stupid and I’ve lied plenty of times.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-

But why would he lie? To me?

[She frowned at him.]

[its-a-movement]

Adults have their reasons. Not that I claim to know them.

[he sighs dramatically. It is obviously faked.]

But, if I had to guess, I’d assume it was for power. He’s always wanting more deals and more souls. I wouldn’t put it above him to manipulate a child for that. A crying shame, too, since you’re so nice.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She tilted her head at him - honestly rather confused. She didn't quite understand.]

I don't-. . . understand. But I'm not- I'm not important, or anything-. .

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[he tsks at her disapprovingly, shaking his head and frowning.]

Scarlet… oh, scarlet, people can lie and be just as smart as they were before. I’m not stupid and I’ve lied plenty of times.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-

But why would he lie? To me?

[She frowned at him.]

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

Well, Scarlet, sometimes papas can be wrong. He was wrong about my papa, you know. Hell, even my papa was wrong about my potential.

[he chuckles.]

But you don’t need to worry about that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

But-. . .

But he said he'd teach me everything. He can't be wrong, he wouldn't be a good teacher, and Maris says Papa is very smart-

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

Hm. Maybe it’s best you didn’t get to watch TV then.

[he has a gut feeling about her uncle. Something was off, he figured, but he didn’t press further.]

Not all television is like that though. I made a couple of kids programs back in my day.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged again.]

I dunno. Papa said no, and-. . I don't want him to be angry.

Oh! I didn't introduce myself. I'm Scarlet.

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

Oculus, but if your papa asks, it’s Stephen. He doesn’t need to know that I stepped foot here.

[he sighs.]

I would allow you around them. Don’t they sound fun? At the very least, they’re better than radio.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shrugged.]

We weren't allowed a TV before I died. My un-. One of my family members did it though, TV. I don't remember what. He said it was for grown ups.

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

Televisions better, you should give my talk show a watch sometime.

Oh. Well, that's a shame. It's a nice dress... does it have any other tears?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She shook her head no.]

Papa would never let me. I'm not allowed near the TVs, like I said.

Oh- Maris never told me your name-?

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

He’s afraid of competition, that’s what. He’s just mad that Voxtek has better entertainment than his shitty, washed up radio show.

[he takes the scissors, snipping the thread before sitting them down between him and scarlet.]

How’d it get torn anyways?

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

I think-. . I think the radio is okay-. .

. . . It- it was before, that was the dress I came here in. It torn before-. .before I was here. Yes.

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

News and television. If it’s got a screen, I’ve been on it.

[he finishes sewing, tying a few knots in the string to get it to hold before motioning for scissors.]

Alastor won’t let you near screens, though. Even I know that.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh.

[She picked up the scissors, handing them to him rather carefully.]

He doesn't like them, he told me. They aren't good for me since I'm growing-. .

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

Give it time, I’ve had the last fifty years to practice. You’ve only been alive for, what, ten? But, you do have the best teacher you could ask for.

[he chuckles. He pauses sewing for a moment.]

Though, as much as I hate to admit it, your papa is a smart man. He’s right, studying people is a skill I have to use down here a lot.

[he resumes sewing, sighing. Mentions of Alastor always made him mad. His own papa made sure of that.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Thirteen.

. . . Why ? What do you do?

[She tilted her head, her gaze turned hesitant. It was unclear what Alastor has told her so far, and what she knew of this...world.]

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[its-a-movement]

Do you have a style that isn’t his?

[he took the dress from her. He took a few seconds to look over the tear before beginning to work on it. He tried to stay a little intimidating, just in case anyone happened to come in during their time, but for the most part he tried to be down on her level.]

Why are you staring at me like that? I don’t even know what you want. You’re not going to get it by staring at me, either.

[he never knew how to handle children- Maris could likely attest to it- and pushing them away was the best option he had, to his knowledge.]

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

. . . Papa told me to study people, that it would be helpful here.

[She spoke rather quietly, a bit shy. If anything, half her time here had already been spent hiding behind the nearest adult. Her gaze didn't waver, though, except to flick down to him sewing.]

. . . You're way better at that then me, I could hardly get the thread through the needle.

[its-a-movement]

[There had been news across Hell that a little girl had arrived. She was what, 13? 14? Far too young to be in hell. And there were more news that came with it:

Alastor had adopted her.

Now, of course this was a shock. Everyone was surprised by this - Vox included. However, Maris worked/stayed at the hotel, so of course-. . .

Of course the little girl had fallen right into Oculus's hands, as Alastor didn't want her to be left alone to wander hell, and Maris needed to run some errands.

She sat on the floor of Maris' room, sewing a tear in a dress with shakey hands. The sound of the door startled her, and she turned quickly.]

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

So he took you in, huh?

[he scanned her for a moment- trying to see if there was anything to clue him in on why she was here so young. He sighed, going over to the corner of the bed and sitting down.]

Can’t say I’m surprised, though. Im sure you know as well as I do that he’s only doing it for power.

[he looked at her hands- the shaking- getting up before sitting down on the floor this time. He let himself drop his act a bit.]

Let me help with that, okay? She taught me to sew- eh- maris, I mean.

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

Oh-

Um- okay, if you want to, I guess-

[Shifted to hand him the needle first, then the dress. It was clear that Alastor had at least picked out her outfit, or at least in the clothing that made it up; a basic dress with a sweater over top. She didn't know who she was; of course Alastor would keep her away from TVs.

She stared at him for a moment more. Despite litterally being in Hell, she was still childlike - especially in her eyes, in her gaze.]

[whittman-jr]

[It had been awhile since Alastor had told him to stay away. Things were going smoothly again. He saw Scarlet less and less - but this time, she came up to him willingly. She had made cookies.]

. . . Gray ?

I'm- sorry.

@intourhandsicommendmyspirit

[he shies away at first, just barely, before he flings himself into her arms and just starts sobbing.]

I’m sorry I called you all those things- I swear I’m not scared of you, just please don’t go away again scarlet- I spent seventy years alone and I don’t want to be alone again- please- I’m sorry for making your dad mad and making you sad and- it was an accident, I swear!

[hes so tightly wrapped against her, it’s as if he doesn’t want her to move an inch.]

Please don’t make your dad say I can’t see you again- I was so scared I’d never see you again- that he’d never let me-

[intourhandsicommendmyspirit]

[She sets the cookies down - pulling him into her arms.]

It's okay. I'm sorry. I forgive you, it's okay.

Shhh..

[A sigh against him.]

It's going to be okay, Gray. I promise you. I'll talk to him, get it all sorted out.