[ the entirety of their experiences in neo tokyo felt like a culmination of broken down memories for callisto. almost as if he were no longer capable of seeing the complete picture. it was much like being caught in the depths of turbulent waters, and every time ones head bobbed to the surface, and filled their lungs with as much oxygen as they could ... they would lose it once more. his memories felt a lot like that, but in spite of it, life goes on in the eorka empire. he returns from his state of near-death from poisoning to find himself back in his palace. per usual, he wasn't permitted the rest or the mental recuperation he likely needed from such an arduous journey.
that is, until he hears of a certain princess making a journey to the empire. while initially he brushed it off as just another task needed to be done for diplomacy, and as much as he would rather turn down the delegation and simply raze their country to the ground— he comprehends that they're not necessarily enemies, even if they came from another nation. in theory, they had also assisted in their efforts of subjugating delman. but, what really captures his interest is not warfare, but that the princess was described to be ...
eerily similar to a lady he met in the other lands.
naturally, curiosity ends up winning out, and instead of approaching her in an official capacity, he orders her to be brought to his quarters discreetly (eresh, you really deserve so much better). hence, once she arrives, she will quickly be whisked out, or perhaps even tricked and forced to wait in the drawing room of his palace.
before long, she will find herself staring back at a familiar face, especially as he appears behind her, his hand already reaching to snake around her waist. ] My lady. [ he whispers close to her ear, his tone hushed, as an almost devious sort of smile curves on his lips. ]
Do you know what the punishment is for keeping me waiting?
[ Most of Ereshkigal's existence has been a peaceful one. Boring and lonely, to be sure. So lonely it brought her immeasurable pain, the likes of which would drive any mortals mad should they experience but a fraction of it. Her abandonment by the gods and mankind was something she had expected to be eternal. Her imprisonment within her own realm should have continued till the end of times, never to change.
But these past few years, it's been as if an entity beyond even her knowing decided to put her in a serialized novel that gets new chapters added every months!
First, the incineration of mankind and the seventh singularity. Then, Nergal's plot and Christmas in her Underworld. And finally, Neo Tokyo and the kaijus. Mind you, there's also those weird things called "memes" she's been thrown in left and right!! Within only a couple years, she's found herself experiencing more adventures and excitement than she has since the dawn of mankind. And why, this isn't over...! Because now she's in yet another world, this time as a...
A princess?!?
It's dangerous, her heart just isn't built to handle that much all at once. It's like starting a vehicle from zero to light-speed within a split second. You take the risk of crashing it breaking it! ]
[ So of course, she sought to find the truth about this all. This world is so different from Neo Tokyo, no weird organization asking her to help save humanity. It's not anything like a singularity or a lostbelt either. No, instead people treat her as if she's always been here, as if she'd been born a princess and she just forgot everything!
So she sought to use that whole "princess" thing to her advantage to meet the people who would perhaps be able to explain her. And here she is now, stuck in that room! They told her to wait for the emperor, but honestly the way they'd forced her in there had felt more like a kidnapping than an invitation! She can't even use her powers because of the dire lack of mana... ]
Huh?
[ Wait, someone entered the room? And before she can even turn around to look at him-- ]
.........?!?
[ I-Is he holding her with his arm? Wrapped around her waist so sensually and possessively?! T-That's something new! She's a goddess (and a princess too now), y-you can't just hold her like that!
And now he's whispering in her ear... Oh no no no. Is that what she thinks this is? That's not possible, her destined love is supposed to take her on dates to beautiful gardens, make DIY jewelry with her, sit by cozy fires with her on cold evening... And only after a decade or two, can they start getting physical.
With handholding.
This is skipping so many steps, she's not sure what to say or do! She's totally frozen on the spot. Though, that voice does sound very familiar. I-Is he someone she's met before...?
... ... ... ...
Slowly... Very slowly...
Ereshkigal turns her head to get a peek at just who the man is... And... ]
[ T-T-That man?! She recognizes him of course, how could she not? He drowned then burned all of her characters in that weird game! And it hadn't stopped there. Besides Tezcatlipoca, he had perhaps been one of the most disagreeable person in that world! Always so cruel and always so satisfied about it!
And yet... ]
You-You're the emperor...?
[ What the Kûr? is that why he kept bullying her in Neo Tokyo? Did he secretly nurture romantic feelings for her and he drew her to this world because of that?! How scandalous (and flattering)! She's so red right now, she might just look like a tomato with pigtails. T-This is a dream, right? ]
[ to be honest, it's not everyday that he sees someone who is so completely transparent. he can feel the way her body tenses beneath his fingers as they curve and give her waist a slight squeeze, and even the way her face seems to shift in color, a softer reddish hue dabbed against her cheeks as if they were delicately painted on. ... or smeared entirely across her features. who is to say when he has to crane his neck properly to see her features, his head shifting down to look at her.
for a goddess and now princess, wasn't she quite small now that he got a better look at her. commentary her plans to internalize for now as he sees her expression shift between one emotion and the next. to be honest, he never tires seeing her plethora of responses. each one more surprising than the next. ]
Is there anyone else who would be fit enough to wear the crown? [ he says, completely self-assured, but more importantly: ] But, should a princess be raising her voice like this? [ he keeps his tone even, though there is a certain mischievousness laced into his voice. ]
Are you not happy to see me? I'm a bit hurt. [ he's not. ]
[ There are plenty of people who are surely more fit to wear the crown in that world! And now he's accusing her to raise her voice? She may be a princess, but she's also a goddess and a queen. Even though being a princess and queen at the same time sounds redundant, but that's a mere detail.
... ... I-Is he squeezing her flesh now? That's escalating so fast!! At this rate who knows where they'll be within the next ten years. ]
U-Unhand me at once, villain! I will have you know I am a pure(?) and innocent(??) maiden who will not allow for any man to treat me like that. [She tries to look very angry and scary... She's pretty short though, the way she has to crane her neck just to stare into his eyes probably ruins much of the scary factor.] If not, I shall have to make use of extreme force.
[ Sure, he does look very handsome, the way he's so confident and possessive is admittedly somehow reassuring and she can't deny there is something incredibly flattering at the idea he chose her out of all other women in both worlds... But he clearly kidnapped her! She doesn't know how, but somehow he summoned her into this world and now he's holding her here! Why, he's treating her like she's special and... and...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... A-Actually, he is checking most of the boxes for the one who would free her from the Underworld and give her a happy ending, the mysterious admirer she daydreams about every now and then. That's a scary thought! This man who mocked her, who was so incredibly mean and relentless in his bullying... H-He can't be her destined love, can he?
What a nightmare! (Or dream?) S-She needs to put an end to this right now! ]
[ the comment of being pure and innocent does manage to get a small, diminutive chuckle from the back his throat. almost sounding involuntary, as if he simply couldn't help himself but to find the concept both equal parts funny and maybe a bit endearing. ] Isn't that expected, my lady?
[ there is no hint of reservation as he continues, his hands still around her, and his face only inching closer. ] I already have half the mind to gouge out the eyes of anyone who dared to gaze at you. If you had such an intimate bond with someone else, death wouldn't be enough.
[ should he be mentioning such dark concepts so readily? probably not, but he does it quite effortlessly. it isn't that he believes he is the only man to have courted her, but that he simply believed there was no adequate substitute for himself. who else in this empire could match up to him? (this is entirely his own perception).
still, he's relieved to see the goddess appeared to be in good health. nothing seeming out of place with her condition. at her final stuttering words, he seems to cant his head slightly, confusion clearly marring his features. ]
Scandalous? What exactly is the princess thinking of?
[ he does wonder what sort of thoughts go on in that head of hers... while she was clearly capable, considering she was also a recruit and "outsider" under LILITH, at moments like these, he feels like he sees an entirely different side of her. but, he likes the emotions that appear on her features unfiltered; as she had nothing in the world to hide. much like now. he wonders if she's already racking her brain for ways out of this scenario. unfortunately, he had no intentions of letting her go. ]
[ T-That wasn't what she'd expected upon claiming her purity and innocence! Talking about gouging the eyes out of anyone who dares look at her... T-That's psychotic! Also kind-of (sort-of) romantic, though definitely more psychotic than romantic! She's not sure she could live with herself knowing people are being tortured simply because she said hello to them.
His passion can most certainly not be denied. And now he's asking what she means by scandalous. Sniff. He's going to make it sound as though she is the one with a twisted mind, isn't he? Is this how Ereshkigal, Goddess of Death, ends? Reduced to a puddle of shame and embarassment by a romantically-inclined villain? ]
[ ... No way! She's a resplendent and dignified princess (goddess). Even though her powers are gone, one key element remains: her A-rank strength. She tries to tear herself from his hold so that she can turn around and face him.
... Actually, that makes her realize just how nice it was to be held so strongly and possessively. Being a touch-starved goddess who's been alone since the dawn of mankind sure isn't helping her case. B-But she needs to step her foot down and put her full authority on display ere he goes too far! ]
H-Hold on! [She points a very indignant finger at his face.] If you wish to court me, first I demand you cease any and all relationship with other women!
[ He's an emperor, she knows how it is! If he's anything like the ancient kings of the world, he must have a bedroom filled to the brim with concubines and mistresses. Well not under her watch! He's not the only one with possessiveness issues in this room, and she won't tolerate to just be another number. ]
And be aware, I do not like you! In fact, I hate you. [Bully! Criminal!Villain!] So if you wish to court me, you're going to have and change a lot about yourself, Callisto Regulus!
[ ... Actually she does kind of enjoy that possessive side he's shown. Also she had really enjoyed the way he held her. And thinking back to it, his mischievousness back in Neo Tokyo had been somewhat endearing. To say she hates him is kind of a lie, really.
B-But! She's a goddess. A princess now! She can't allow for herself to just admit it! ]
And lastly... D-Dare not touch me again until my opinion of you has changed!
[ It's hard. Somehow she sounds the least convincing with that final sentence. But she needs to be strict! It's okay, nobody has ever held her romantically before and she's been fine that entire time! She'll be fine from now on... S-Surely. ]
[ there are truly not many in the empire who were capable of sticking their finger so boldly in the face of the emperor. it’s a bit comical, and reminds him a lot of one would expect from a “cartoon” as was often advertised in neo tokyo. the sudden reminder does give him both a hint of nostalgia and a lingering sensation of hilarity. though, per usual, she subverts all his expectations even further the more she speaks.
her first demand… ] Princess, it seems there is a stark misunderstanding. For the record, I am unmarried and I do not have any engagements to speak of, either. At least, outside of you. [ he says as he’s basically just decided this on a whim, and in the present moment. he idly looks down at his hands, which seem extra empty as he’s rightfully freed her of his grasp.
he grants her whatever distance she deems respectable. albeit, he isn’t sure what those standards are, so surely she would not nitpick how close he remains to her, right?
looking at her expression, it seemed prudent to permit her to have her way. … and the idea of her gradually changing her mind was a bit appealing in its own respect. thinking of her residual and built-up embarrassment after being so firm like this—
well, it’d be nothing short of entertaining.
but, naturally, it’s not like callisto to give in entirely, or be without a quip of his own. ] Do you not believe your words to be a bit much? At this rate, would you have the emperor be treated like a man of the cloth? [ he senses her uncertainty and he’s not about to squander the opportunity away. ]
[ Wow! This went so much better than expected! Has she become that charismatic during her stay in Neo Tokyo? Or has he always been a pushover who will give in at the slightest sign of push-back? Ehehe, that feeling is kind of intoxicating. So much so, she feels her confidence flare up.
Of course, it's also possible he just respects her and the boundaries she sets up... But that possibility isn't even crossing her mind. At least, it doesn't until she ponders of what he just said. ]
R-Really?
[ No other engagements...? I-Is he actually better than Gilgamesh? He could just be lying to try and woo her, of course! But if that's true, that's very respectable. She has no way to check whether he's lying or not, so... She'll believe him while maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism.
But as to her words being a bit much... W-Well, maybe. He's on the back foot, she could just press her advantage. But she doesn't feel like it would be a good idea. She's agreed to give him a chance, after all. ]
Well... I-I suppose now that I have set my terms, it is only fair for you to set yours.
[ normally, it was others who attempted in inflate his ego. perhaps, attempting to entrap him sweetly to whatever desires they may have had in a political landscape. unlike them, he didn't have such wanton wants, but in a moment of seeing her seeming to build up her own sense of confidence, he can't completely deny seeing the appeal.
though, it's soon combatted against her uncertainty and the concept of him admitting he truly had no such person in his life. it would only take ereshkigal a single ball to find that callisto had no noblewoman lining up before him. instead, they tended to avoid him like a plague, if just because despite taking to the throne, his history of "tyranny" hadn't been entirely cast aside.
but, when she seems to agree to him setting his own terms, he gives an easy sort of smile. maybe even a bit more casual, if just for feeling a bit more comfortable now that this space existed for just the two of them. ] The first condition should be that you are required to have several scheduled dates with me per month. Naturally, with marriage in mind. [ continuing. ] Additionally, while you mention no touching, what about if you touch me first?
[ ... W-Wait. What is this word he's just uttered, somewhere after "dates?" Did he really say that? The most sacred word, the epitome of romance, the final destination of loving couples? The thing all goddesses (surely) dream of when they're alone and sad? ]
M-M-M-M-... [Blinks blinks.] Marriage...?!
[ Ereshkigal takes steps back and sits on the nearby bed. I-Is there something akin to a fan nearby? Normally her flesh is very cold, but right now her face is emitting so much heat, it's like she's become a human-shaped heater! ]
[Okay, put yourself together Ereshkigal! Deep breathes. Marriage is only the goal in mind, but if he fails then she won't have to do it. And of course he's going to fail. He's so full of evil, absolutely cruel and lacking in empathy. Unless she can somehow redeem him, she's not sure he stands any chance of success.
Good looks aren't everything, if the inside is rotten then none of the outside matters. ]
Y-Yes, I suppose that would be acceptable... [Nothing can go wrong (deluded).] It's not like I will ever touch you, ehehe...
[ Why would she ever do that? She's gone fifty thousand years without human contact, she just needs to keep going for whatever his lifespan is going to be! He has what, sixty, seventy years at most? Easy, very easy, surely. ]
[ his gloved hand comes up to cover the bottom of his face; his mouth now perfectly concealed as he barely holds back a snicker. her reaction to marriage was... reassuring to say in the last. if it was that shocking of a prospect, then at least his words have left some sort of impact.
this feeling only when she seems to relent to the idea. ]
Of course. Is that not what you desired? Don't tell me you had simply planned to continue meeting me without the thought of marriage in mind? I had no idea you were the sort who enjoyed toying with a man in this way.
[ except, they already established she has no such experience...
which is precisely why he can make this joke; not having concern himself with lingering thoughts of her having truly given another person her heart or her body. beyond just his desire to want to tear such an individual up, it is also true that it was a bit of a comfort in a way. while their reasoning and the lives they've lived couldn't be any more different, it dispelled some of concerns he had on the abnormality of his past self and thoughts.
but, whatever hint of hilarity he found in the situation seems to simmer down at her second statement. ]
[ W-Wow! Those accusations are so outrageous! She would never play with a man's heart, and she most certainly has the utmost respect for marriage and what it means! It simply hadn't dawned on her that this was the logical conclusion, should he succeed.
And yet - somehow - what he says next offends her even more. Does she look like the kind of woman who would go and touch a man simply because he is "really handsome?" Maybe he should have picked Ishtar to be his future bride, she would do it without a second thought. What a shameless man! Ereshkigal stands up and approaches him once more. ]
Though you may be handsome— [She will concede this point, much as it hurts her.] This does not change the ugliness nested within the depths of your heart.
[ She points a finger right at his - admittedly handsome - face and takes another step forward. ]
[ Her face is less than an inch away from his and her finger is practically poking his nose. ]
If you want to win over the heart of a pure and innocent maiden such as myself— [Reminder she brutally murdered her own sister and tried killing all humans once.] You will have to better yourself, good sir!
[ ... H-He can keep the possessive and obsessive aspects, but he needs to tone down the evil! Probably. Honestly she can't see it happening but if he at least tries, that would still be a huge success. ]
regardless, he does appear to take her admittance as a form of a win. all the more when she punctuates each insult with a purposeful step. while he could have taken offense, they're technically words he's heard before (even if they all feel like a distant memory now), and so he seems to take it in stride. though, it may have been made a bit easier to swallow by the audaciousness of her words, the way she points, and the comicality hidden behind the situation.
when she draws close enough to almost make contact with the tip of his nose, he gives an easygoing sort of smile, his arms coming up in a clear shrug. is it already a sign of good faith that he doesn't seem to be breaking her rules of "no touching." ] To think I would need to go to such extremes for a simple compliment.
[ which part does he seem to think is the praise here? he doesn't seem to be interested in expounding. ] Then watch me up close, princess. I can hardly create these invisible amends you seem to be so interested in if you aren't actually watching my every move.
[ he seems to tilt his head a bit slightly. ] As for you claiming you'd never touch me...
[ he steps back, just one single step as he digs in his pocket to take out a dagger, he holds his hand out as if ready to cut into his own palm...
is she really not going to stop him, he wonders? ]
[ Ah... So that's the step where he tries to threaten her to get what he wants, huh? Does he realize just how absolutely unappealing that is? Possessive and obsessive, she can tolerate. Of course those are most definitely negative traits, but ultimately that just means he really wants her and is more than determined to keep her by his side.
For someone who's struggling with feelings of abandonment and thinks she's unlovable, that's... that's kind of flattering. Manipulative is along the same line, even though there's no way he could ever manipulate her (right?). Not that she'll ever admit it because that'd be equivalent to admitting she's desperate for affection and nobody needs to know that, especially not him.
But that? That is just gross. Totally and utterly disgusting. Does he mean to force himself on her? Unfortunately for him, she would rather get stabbed than agree with it. Besides, she's still gifted with her A-rank strength. ]
[ W-What a a foolish man! Is he trying to hurt himself?! Why would he do that? Is this because of her rejection? I-Is he somehow so enamored with her that he would rather die than live without her? She rushes to him. ]
N-Nitwit! [She tries to take the dagger from him and - of course - touches his hands in the process. Thankfully, she's too panicked to realize she just fell in his trap or feel ashamed at the idea that they're technically engaging in handholding.] Cease that at once! I shall not allow for you to harm yourself!
[ very casually, very normally, he is ready to slice straight into his flesh. the blade's tip likely mere centimeters away from making contact, before she rushes straight over. she practically throws herself in his direction (entirely his perception of it), as he gives her a genuine sort of smile. while it may have stemmed from more conniving considerations, callisto doesn't seem to let the motivations behind the touch mar the actual act itself.
with her hand grasped over his, he looks between them. he doesn't let go of the dagger, if just because it is much like an anchor at sea in his present situation. it's all that seems to physically bring them together in the moment. ... and considering her attitude, he is fairly certain it may be a while before she allows him to be this close again. ]
Here, I thought the lady would never lay her hands on me. [ he then lifts the dagger a bit higher, as if it keep it from her reach, and childishly keep her closer. ] Since you changed your mind, does that mean I get to reciprocate for today?
[ ... E-Eh? Why is he so calm and composed when he'd been mere moments away from ending his own life? And what he says next- Oh no. Oh no no no no. ]
You tricked me!
[ What a vile villain! Her panic turns to anger almost immediately. H-How did he dare play with her heart like that! All so she would touch him and break her own oath. She should have let him slice himself till nothing was left of his pitiful self! She can't believe she fell for such a basic, sad trick.
And she can't even tell him no, because otherwise her word will lose all value! ]
You-You...! [She wants to leap and twist his neck, but that wouldn't do her any good. She'd still be stuck in this world and the only person who knows her would be dead.] F-Fine, very well then.
[ the flare of her temper does little to affect his own joviality. was he merely pleased at the prospect of besting her at her own pre-established rules, or was he actually quite touched with her concern? maybe there was a bit of both at play. which he seems to show readily enough, as he ends up grabbing the dagger up with his other hand and placing back in its former position in his formal jacket.
he then shakes her hand of his own wrist, if just to then place their hands palm to palm, his fingers slowly intertwining with hers. it's a gradual and careful motion, as his fingers light touch the back of her hands. his thumb squeezing down lightly where the joints of her fingers meet, as if studying the way they came together. she was a goddess, but in moments like this... she felt like an entity that was a bit closer than that. ] Do not be too discouraged.
It means you are simply as good-natured as I believed you to be. It's a compliment, princess.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
synflux-isekai au.
that is, until he hears of a certain princess making a journey to the empire. while initially he brushed it off as just another task needed to be done for diplomacy, and as much as he would rather turn down the delegation and simply raze their country to the ground— he comprehends that they're not necessarily enemies, even if they came from another nation. in theory, they had also assisted in their efforts of subjugating delman. but, what really captures his interest is not warfare, but that the princess was described to be ...
eerily similar to a lady he met in the other lands.
naturally, curiosity ends up winning out, and instead of approaching her in an official capacity, he orders her to be brought to his quarters discreetly (eresh, you really deserve so much better). hence, once she arrives, she will quickly be whisked out, or perhaps even tricked and forced to wait in the drawing room of his palace.
before long, she will find herself staring back at a familiar face, especially as he appears behind her, his hand already reaching to snake around her waist. ] My lady. [ he whispers close to her ear, his tone hushed, as an almost devious sort of smile curves on his lips. ]
Do you know what the punishment is for keeping me waiting?
[ wasn't she actually the one waiting? shhh.
but, at least it isn't killing her sims family? ]
1/4
But these past few years, it's been as if an entity beyond even her knowing decided to put her in a serialized novel that gets new chapters added every months!
First, the incineration of mankind and the seventh singularity. Then, Nergal's plot and Christmas in her Underworld. And finally, Neo Tokyo and the kaijus. Mind you, there's also those weird things called "memes" she's been thrown in left and right!! Within only a couple years, she's found herself experiencing more adventures and excitement than she has since the dawn of mankind. And why, this isn't over...! Because now she's in yet another world, this time as a...
A princess?!?
It's dangerous, her heart just isn't built to handle that much all at once. It's like starting a vehicle from zero to light-speed within a split second. You take the risk of crashing it breaking it! ]
no subject
So she sought to use that whole "princess" thing to her advantage to meet the people who would perhaps be able to explain her. And here she is now, stuck in that room! They told her to wait for the emperor, but honestly the way they'd forced her in there had felt more like a kidnapping than an invitation! She can't even use her powers because of the dire lack of mana... ]
Huh?
[ Wait, someone entered the room? And before she can even turn around to look at him-- ]
.........?!?
[ I-Is he holding her with his arm? Wrapped around her waist so sensually and possessively?! T-That's something new! She's a goddess (and a princess too now), y-you can't just hold her like that!
And now he's whispering in her ear... Oh no no no. Is that what she thinks this is? That's not possible, her destined love is supposed to take her on dates to beautiful gardens, make DIY jewelry with her, sit by cozy fires with her on cold evening... And only after a decade or two, can they start getting physical.
With handholding.
This is skipping so many steps, she's not sure what to say or do! She's totally frozen on the spot. Though, that voice does sound very familiar. I-Is he someone she's met before...?
... ... ... ...
Slowly...
Very slowly...
Ereshkigal turns her head to get a peek at just who the man is... And... ]
no subject
?? ?? ? ???
? ?? ??
?? ? ? ?? ??
?? ? ?? ? ?? ???
?? ? ??? ?? ?? ? ]
4/4
[ T-T-That man?! She recognizes him of course, how could she not? He drowned then burned all of her characters in that weird game! And it hadn't stopped there. Besides Tezcatlipoca, he had perhaps been one of the most disagreeable person in that world! Always so cruel and always so satisfied about it!
And yet... ]
You-You're the emperor...?
[ What the Kûr? is that why he kept bullying her in Neo Tokyo? Did he secretly nurture romantic feelings for her and he drew her to this world because of that?! How scandalous (and flattering)! She's so red right now, she might just look like a tomato with pigtails. T-This is a dream, right? ]
no subject
for a goddess and now princess, wasn't she quite small now that he got a better look at her. commentary her plans to internalize for now as he sees her expression shift between one emotion and the next. to be honest, he never tires seeing her plethora of responses. each one more surprising than the next. ]
Is there anyone else who would be fit enough to wear the crown? [ he says, completely self-assured, but more importantly: ] But, should a princess be raising her voice like this? [ he keeps his tone even, though there is a certain mischievousness laced into his voice. ]
Are you not happy to see me? I'm a bit hurt. [ he's not. ]
no subject
... ... I-Is he squeezing her flesh now? That's escalating so fast!! At this rate who knows where they'll be within the next ten years. ]
U-Unhand me at once, villain! I will have you know I am a pure(?) and innocent(??) maiden who will not allow for any man to treat me like that. [She tries to look very angry and scary... She's pretty short though, the way she has to crane her neck just to stare into his eyes probably ruins much of the scary factor.] If not, I shall have to make use of extreme force.
[ Sure, he does look very handsome, the way he's so confident and possessive is admittedly somehow reassuring and she can't deny there is something incredibly flattering at the idea he chose her out of all other women in both worlds... But he clearly kidnapped her! She doesn't know how, but somehow he summoned her into this world and now he's holding her here! Why, he's treating her like she's special and... and...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... A-Actually, he is checking most of the boxes for the one who would free her from the Underworld and give her a happy ending, the mysterious admirer she daydreams about every now and then. That's a scary thought! This man who mocked her, who was so incredibly mean and relentless in his bullying... H-He can't be her destined love, can he?
What a nightmare! (Or dream?) S-She needs to put an end to this right now! ]
W-Was this your plan all along? How scandalous!
no subject
[ there is no hint of reservation as he continues, his hands still around her, and his face only inching closer. ] I already have half the mind to gouge out the eyes of anyone who dared to gaze at you. If you had such an intimate bond with someone else, death wouldn't be enough.
[ should he be mentioning such dark concepts so readily? probably not, but he does it quite effortlessly. it isn't that he believes he is the only man to have courted her, but that he simply believed there was no adequate substitute for himself. who else in this empire could match up to him? (this is entirely his own perception).
still, he's relieved to see the goddess appeared to be in good health. nothing seeming out of place with her condition. at her final stuttering words, he seems to cant his head slightly, confusion clearly marring his features. ]
Scandalous? What exactly is the princess thinking of?
[ he does wonder what sort of thoughts go on in that head of hers... while she was clearly capable, considering she was also a recruit and "outsider" under LILITH, at moments like these, he feels like he sees an entirely different side of her. but, he likes the emotions that appear on her features unfiltered; as she had nothing in the world to hide. much like now. he wonders if she's already racking her brain for ways out of this scenario. unfortunately, he had no intentions of letting her go. ]
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His passion can most certainly not be denied. And now he's asking what she means by scandalous. Sniff. He's going to make it sound as though she is the one with a twisted mind, isn't he? Is this how Ereshkigal, Goddess of Death, ends? Reduced to a puddle of shame and embarassment by a romantically-inclined villain? ]
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... Actually, that makes her realize just how nice it was to be held so strongly and possessively. Being a touch-starved goddess who's been alone since the dawn of mankind sure isn't helping her case. B-But she needs to step her foot down and put her full authority on display ere he goes too far! ]
H-Hold on! [She points a very indignant finger at his face.] If you wish to court me, first I demand you cease any and all relationship with other women!
[ He's an emperor, she knows how it is! If he's anything like the ancient kings of the world, he must have a bedroom filled to the brim with concubines and mistresses. Well not under her watch! He's not the only one with possessiveness issues in this room, and she won't tolerate to just be another number. ]
And be aware, I do not like you! In fact, I hate you. [Bully! Criminal! Villain!] So if you wish to court me, you're going to have and change a lot about yourself, Callisto Regulus!
[ ... Actually she does kind of enjoy that possessive side he's shown. Also she had really enjoyed the way he held her. And thinking back to it, his mischievousness back in Neo Tokyo had been somewhat endearing. To say she hates him is kind of a lie, really.
B-But! She's a goddess. A princess now! She can't allow for herself to just admit it! ]
And lastly... D-Dare not touch me again until my opinion of you has changed!
[ It's hard. Somehow she sounds the least convincing with that final sentence. But she needs to be strict! It's okay, nobody has ever held her romantically before and she's been fine that entire time! She'll be fine from now on... S-Surely. ]
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her first demand… ] Princess, it seems there is a stark misunderstanding. For the record, I am unmarried and I do not have any engagements to speak of, either. At least, outside of you. [ he says as he’s basically just decided this on a whim, and in the present moment. he idly looks down at his hands, which seem extra empty as he’s rightfully freed her of his grasp.
he grants her whatever distance she deems respectable. albeit, he isn’t sure what those standards are, so surely she would not nitpick how close he remains to her, right?
looking at her expression, it seemed prudent to permit her to have her way. … and the idea of her gradually changing her mind was a bit appealing in its own respect. thinking of her residual and built-up embarrassment after being so firm like this—
well, it’d be nothing short of entertaining.
but, naturally, it’s not like callisto to give in entirely, or be without a quip of his own. ] Do you not believe your words to be a bit much? At this rate, would you have the emperor be treated like a man of the cloth? [ he senses her uncertainty and he’s not about to squander the opportunity away. ]
Should we not set some proper expectations?
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Of course, it's also possible he just respects her and the boundaries she sets up... But that possibility isn't even crossing her mind. At least, it doesn't until she ponders of what he just said. ]
R-Really?
[ No other engagements...? I-Is he actually better than Gilgamesh? He could just be lying to try and woo her, of course! But if that's true, that's very respectable. She has no way to check whether he's lying or not, so... She'll believe him while maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism.
But as to her words being a bit much... W-Well, maybe. He's on the back foot, she could just press her advantage. But she doesn't feel like it would be a good idea. She's agreed to give him a chance, after all. ]
Well... I-I suppose now that I have set my terms, it is only fair for you to set yours.
[ She's confident he will be reasonable. ]
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though, it's soon combatted against her uncertainty and the concept of him admitting he truly had no such person in his life. it would only take ereshkigal a single ball to find that callisto had no noblewoman lining up before him. instead, they tended to avoid him like a plague, if just because despite taking to the throne, his history of "tyranny" hadn't been entirely cast aside.
but, when she seems to agree to him setting his own terms, he gives an easy sort of smile. maybe even a bit more casual, if just for feeling a bit more comfortable now that this space existed for just the two of them. ] The first condition should be that you are required to have several scheduled dates with me per month. Naturally, with marriage in mind. [ continuing. ] Additionally, while you mention no touching, what about if you touch me first?
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M-M-M-M-... [Blinks blinks.] Marriage...?!
[ Ereshkigal takes steps back and sits on the nearby bed. I-Is there something akin to a fan nearby? Normally her flesh is very cold, but right now her face is emitting so much heat, it's like she's become a human-shaped heater! ]
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Good looks aren't everything, if the inside is rotten then none of the outside matters. ]
Y-Yes, I suppose that would be acceptable... [Nothing can go wrong (deluded).] It's not like I will ever touch you, ehehe...
[ Why would she ever do that? She's gone fifty thousand years without human contact, she just needs to keep going for whatever his lifespan is going to be! He has what, sixty, seventy years at most? Easy, very easy, surely. ]
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this feeling only when she seems to relent to the idea. ]
Of course. Is that not what you desired? Don't tell me you had simply planned to continue meeting me without the thought of marriage in mind? I had no idea you were the sort who enjoyed toying with a man in this way.
[ except, they already established she has no such experience...
which is precisely why he can make this joke; not having concern himself with lingering thoughts of her having truly given another person her heart or her body. beyond just his desire to want to tear such an individual up, it is also true that it was a bit of a comfort in a way. while their reasoning and the lives they've lived couldn't be any more different, it dispelled some of concerns he had on the abnormality of his past self and thoughts.
but, whatever hint of hilarity he found in the situation seems to simmer down at her second statement. ]
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... ] My lady, just in case you were unaware, I am really handsome.
[ i hate this so much... help me. ]
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And yet - somehow - what he says next offends her even more. Does she look like the kind of woman who would go and touch a man simply because he is "really handsome?" Maybe he should have picked Ishtar to be his future bride, she would do it without a second thought. What a shameless man! Ereshkigal stands up and approaches him once more. ]
Though you may be handsome— [She will concede this point, much as it hurts her.] This does not change the ugliness nested within the depths of your heart.
[ She points a finger right at his - admittedly handsome - face and takes another step forward. ]
Arrogant. [A steps closer.] Cruel! [And closer.] Terrible!!
[ Her face is less than an inch away from his and her finger is practically poking his nose. ]
If you want to win over the heart of a pure and innocent maiden such as myself— [Reminder she brutally murdered her own sister and tried killing all humans once.] You will have to better yourself, good sir!
[ ... H-He can keep the possessive and obsessive aspects, but he needs to tone down the evil! Probably. Honestly she can't see it happening but if he at least tries, that would still be a huge success. ]
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regardless, he does appear to take her admittance as a form of a win. all the more when she punctuates each insult with a purposeful step. while he could have taken offense, they're technically words he's heard before (even if they all feel like a distant memory now), and so he seems to take it in stride. though, it may have been made a bit easier to swallow by the audaciousness of her words, the way she points, and the comicality hidden behind the situation.
when she draws close enough to almost make contact with the tip of his nose, he gives an easygoing sort of smile, his arms coming up in a clear shrug. is it already a sign of good faith that he doesn't seem to be breaking her rules of "no touching." ] To think I would need to go to such extremes for a simple compliment.
[ which part does he seem to think is the praise here? he doesn't seem to be interested in expounding. ] Then watch me up close, princess. I can hardly create these invisible amends you seem to be so interested in if you aren't actually watching my every move.
[ he seems to tilt his head a bit slightly. ] As for you claiming you'd never touch me...
[ he steps back, just one single step as he digs in his pocket to take out a dagger, he holds his hand out as if ready to cut into his own palm...
is she really not going to stop him, he wonders? ]
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For someone who's struggling with feelings of abandonment and thinks she's unlovable, that's... that's kind of flattering. Manipulative is along the same line, even though there's no way he could ever manipulate her (right?). Not that she'll ever admit it because that'd be equivalent to admitting she's desperate for affection and nobody needs to know that, especially not him.
But that? That is just gross. Totally and utterly disgusting. Does he mean to force himself on her? Unfortunately for him, she would rather get stabbed than agree with it. Besides, she's still gifted with her A-rank strength. ]
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[ He's not pointing the dagger at her...? What the Kûr is he doing? ]
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[ W-What a a foolish man! Is he trying to hurt himself?! Why would he do that? Is this because of her rejection? I-Is he somehow so enamored with her that he would rather die than live without her? She rushes to him. ]
N-Nitwit! [She tries to take the dagger from him and - of course - touches his hands in the process. Thankfully, she's too panicked to realize she just fell in his trap or feel ashamed at the idea that they're technically engaging in handholding.] Cease that at once! I shall not allow for you to harm yourself!
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with her hand grasped over his, he looks between them. he doesn't let go of the dagger, if just because it is much like an anchor at sea in his present situation. it's all that seems to physically bring them together in the moment. ... and considering her attitude, he is fairly certain it may be a while before she allows him to be this close again. ]
Here, I thought the lady would never lay her hands on me. [ he then lifts the dagger a bit higher, as if it keep it from her reach, and childishly keep her closer. ] Since you changed your mind, does that mean I get to reciprocate for today?
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You tricked me!
[ What a vile villain! Her panic turns to anger almost immediately. H-How did he dare play with her heart like that! All so she would touch him and break her own oath. She should have let him slice himself till nothing was left of his pitiful self! She can't believe she fell for such a basic, sad trick.
And she can't even tell him no, because otherwise her word will lose all value! ]
You-You...! [She wants to leap and twist his neck, but that wouldn't do her any good. She'd still be stuck in this world and the only person who knows her would be dead.] F-Fine, very well then.
[ D e f e a t
She needs to read the Art of War sometimes. ]
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he then shakes her hand of his own wrist, if just to then place their hands palm to palm, his fingers slowly intertwining with hers. it's a gradual and careful motion, as his fingers light touch the back of her hands. his thumb squeezing down lightly where the joints of her fingers meet, as if studying the way they came together. she was a goddess, but in moments like this... she felt like an entity that was a bit closer than that. ] Do not be too discouraged.
It means you are simply as good-natured as I believed you to be. It's a compliment, princess.
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omg sorry i somehow lost this notif
no worries!
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eresh never gets a moment of peace
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he is so mean to her
sorry, i been hosting ppl at home, but i am here now eheh
ehehe, no worries at all!
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