[ 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.
[ O-Oh no... The deadly combo of handholding and complimenting her... T-That'd be enough to make any goddess' head spin! And he's doing it so slowly and gently, too. Within a mere second, she's gone from being red with anger to being red with sheer embarassment. ]
I-I-- [Does it look as though she's getting smaller? Not at all and yet, it's as if her body is desperately looking for a way to sink back down into the underground where she belongs.] Gwah...
[ She's looking straight into his eyes and is at a loss for words. I-It is so much easier to deal with him when they're in direct opposition, then she can be angry and annoyed as much as needed. She can push back and back as far as she sees fit. But now that he's gentler...? H-Her heart is not prepared to handle that! She should pretend she's angry, but that's hard when you're actually flustered.
She looks away embarrassingly, hoping maybe the world will end next second so she's saved from this sheer shame. ]
[ in this proximity, it's quite easy for him to study and assess each and every one of her micro-expressions. even the way her cheeks color, and the way she clearly stutters over her own, leads him to releasing a slightly airy sort of laugh. light and almost muted. especially, as he uses his thumb to give her hands a light sort of squeeze. almost as if a reminder to her, as to who was holding her hand. ]
If you are truly thankful, do you not believe we could benefit from doing this on occasion?
[ as if trying to convince her, he releases their hands briefly, if just to re-grip her hand at a slightly differently angle, his fingers now brushing against her palm. he isn't sure how effective this is, but surely just hands... was easy work for a goddess, right?
honestly, how simple did one have to be to thank the person who tricked you...
but, he doesn't hate it. instead, it may have been awfully endearing. ]
[ She's a goddess, sure... But a touch-starved goddess who's been this way since the dawn of time! And she's not simple, she's just taken aback by how he twists everything to his advantage, somehow. She exists to take care of the dead, care for them and help them move on. Not to deal with whatever it is he is doing.
If it was a simple matter of dealing divine punishment upon him, that'd be easier. And since he can't match her power, he's toying with her heart instead! What a cruel, cruel man. ]
V-Very well.
[ Hands. Nothing more than hands. ]
I shall allow you to hold my hand. [She looks up at him, determined. She won't give an inch more!] But nothing more!
[ T-That's already way too much, but she can agree to that much... ]
[ perhaps, they're the same in that vein. he may have not lived a very extensive life by all considerations, especially compared to a goddess— but, despite being the ripe age of 23, now recently turned 24, he can't say he's any better of a position. perhaps, that's why he can savor the only sense of intimacy he can come to know. just like this.
opposite to intimacy, while he could have easily pressed his body close to another soldier to withstand the winter tundra of the lands they've occasionally crossed in the midst of war... this is quite different. no scar tissue against his own hands, just soft, supple skin. ] If I had known your touch so warm, I may have wanted to do this much earlier.
[ just the hands, then. he won't press more than that for today. ]
It is an honor to be your first. [ or he better be her first...
if just because that's the way she made it sound. ]
[ The way he says it is - surprisingly - very sweet. But worse is what he says after. H-Her first? When he says it like that, it sounds... It sounds like something far worse. And yet evidently, he's talking about her hands! Does that mean he expects her to have never held anyone's hands before? She freezes on the spot as she considers the thought.
... S-She shook hands with Chaldea's Master once. And then she remembers when they were on missions in Neo Tokyo, she reached out for one of their fellow outworlder who needed help and grabbed them by the hand. It's not handholding per se, but the truth is undeniable. ]
I-I'm sorry, but... Y-You're not my first...!
[ Her hand has touched that of many people! At least three she can think of, possibly countless more. ]
I've done it before. People I rescued, people I shook hands with or even by accident... [She closes her eyes. The shame! The sheer embarassment.] I cannot hide this impurity!
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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. ]
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... ... 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!
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[ 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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I-I-- [Does it look as though she's getting smaller? Not at all and yet, it's as if her body is desperately looking for a way to sink back down into the underground where she belongs.] Gwah...
[ She's looking straight into his eyes and is at a loss for words. I-It is so much easier to deal with him when they're in direct opposition, then she can be angry and annoyed as much as needed. She can push back and back as far as she sees fit. But now that he's gentler...? H-Her heart is not prepared to handle that! She should pretend she's angry, but that's hard when you're actually flustered.
She looks away embarrassingly, hoping maybe the world will end next second so she's saved from this sheer shame. ]
T-Thank you...?
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If you are truly thankful, do you not believe we could benefit from doing this on occasion?
[ as if trying to convince her, he releases their hands briefly, if just to re-grip her hand at a slightly differently angle, his fingers now brushing against her palm. he isn't sure how effective this is, but surely just hands... was easy work for a goddess, right?
honestly, how simple did one have to be to thank the person who tricked you...
but, he doesn't hate it. instead, it may have been awfully endearing. ]
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If it was a simple matter of dealing divine punishment upon him, that'd be easier. And since he can't match her power, he's toying with her heart instead! What a cruel, cruel man. ]
V-Very well.
[ Hands. Nothing more than hands. ]
I shall allow you to hold my hand. [She looks up at him, determined. She won't give an inch more!] But nothing more!
[ T-That's already way too much, but she can agree to that much... ]
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opposite to intimacy, while he could have easily pressed his body close to another soldier to withstand the winter tundra of the lands they've occasionally crossed in the midst of war... this is quite different. no scar tissue against his own hands, just soft, supple skin. ] If I had known your touch so warm, I may have wanted to do this much earlier.
[ just the hands, then. he won't press more than that for today. ]
It is an honor to be your first. [ or he better be her first...
if just because that's the way she made it sound. ]
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... S-She shook hands with Chaldea's Master once. And then she remembers when they were on missions in Neo Tokyo, she reached out for one of their fellow outworlder who needed help and grabbed them by the hand. It's not handholding per se, but the truth is undeniable. ]
I-I'm sorry, but... Y-You're not my first...!
[ Her hand has touched that of many people! At least three she can think of, possibly countless more. ]
I've done it before. People I rescued, people I shook hands with or even by accident... [She closes her eyes. The shame! The sheer embarassment.] I cannot hide this impurity!
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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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