[semi-open] come, let's fly.
Who: Gilgamesh and various characters
When: Following the latest dungeon.
Where: the Airy, around Polgar, possibly other places
What: Catch-all log for post-dungeon adventures.
Rating: I'll just slap this with the classic "Gilgamesh Deserves His Own Warning" warning. Mentions of rape in Adrasteius thread. Fetish and sex talk in the Kavi thread.
[Custom prompts are below. Feel free to PM me if you're interested in doing something aboard the Airy or in Polgar; I'd be happy to plot with you!]
When: Following the latest dungeon.
Where: the Airy, around Polgar, possibly other places
What: Catch-all log for post-dungeon adventures.
Rating: I'll just slap this with the classic "Gilgamesh Deserves His Own Warning" warning. Mentions of rape in Adrasteius thread. Fetish and sex talk in the Kavi thread.
[Custom prompts are below. Feel free to PM me if you're interested in doing something aboard the Airy or in Polgar; I'd be happy to plot with you!]
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Or not, as Vietnam felt her hand taken into Gilgamesh's and he's brightly eager to explore the ship. He's optimistic! They know Setsuna is going to be fine, so taking this opportunity and rolling with it is a great idea. She'll hold on and follow him, since there really is much to see and everywhere to start.]
I have explored parts of the ship! But I haven't, ah, shopped until I dropped yet, so this will be nice. [They're loaded, they have time, and now they don't need hold back. She has a fair idea where to go on the shopping level, having browsed prior to the dungeon trip.] Do you know what Setsuna would like? And where would you like to begin?
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I believe we are both due for some new sets of clothes. Myself, in particular.
[He picks a little at his torn sleeve, frowning.]
I am most unfashionable in this tawdry uniform. A King should shine brightly, not be left to dim in the shadows.
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I agree. [She looks down at her clothes, all dirty and scratched up, before reaching over to the tear in his sleeve--] Excuse me, [--and touches along the edge to take a look. White uniforms are still the worst idea in her opinion (camo in action, gosh). This torn sleeve could be fixed, she would be able to give it small stitches.]
I can fix this when we return, but you are right that we do need new clothes. There are some nice clothes in the shops. Some a little cultural as well. [Ma Jiang fashion! Feathers!] I think we can get some at an affordable price. [If she bargains to death. Gently squeezing his hand, she directs him toward the entrance of the shop sector. They'll need to go deeper towards the end, where quality goods come at a much cheaper price.]
But also, there are fabrics here. If you worry about wearing your uniform all the time, we can find something nice here, and I will sew it for you when we return to Caissa.
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We had best haggle as much as we can. Even with coin in our pockets, it would do no good to waste it all.
[He says this now, but guess who is, in fact, going to waste it all? This guy. He couldn't help it, he surrounded himself with luxury and he misses it dearly. Even if it was just illusion of it, he craved it above everything else, as evidenced when he eyes a flashy coat in a nearby window.]
...oh, what a trial, though! This King longs for the sweet embrace of gold once more! You must save me from myself, Vietnam, my heart breaks.
[What a drama queen. At least he'll be a source of entertainment for the trip.]
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Now, considering that he wants to haggle and spend wisely, yet is admitting to her that he'll need help saving himself from wanting to be covered in gold, she's beginning to think he may have bad spending habits. The good intentions are there. The self control? Will need to be witnessed first--...oh, no, look his temptation when he looks at that coat.
She manages to stop herself from laughing (WHAT FLOWERY WORDS), and straightens up dutifully.]
I am glad you suggested that, because I usually prefer to buy quality items at low prices. [Though, she should add the following in for good measure:] How to say, one feels victorious after pushing a full price down to a suitable level.
[She leads him over to the window, so he can get a closer look at the stylish(????????) clothes he was eying. They're not in a hurry, seeing as they should be browsing anyway. On closer inspection through this window, a lot of the clothes made in this shop are well made. If she can get the patterns, she can replicate it.]
If you wish for me to save you, then that can be easily fulfilled. But also, if you follow what I tell you to do, [which will either be look imposing or look kind, and don't open his mouth] we can potentially get you what you want without spending a lot. I can't promise that it will be everything, but it is worth a try. A King aiming to be frugal can still have nice things.
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But instead, hearing her wise words—and respecting her enough to heed them—he grunts in assent. Self-control was certainly not one of his strong suits, nor was bargaining with shopkeepers for the best deal. Therefore, in recognition of her prowess, he cedes her a rare opportunity.]
Then command me as you see fit. It is unusual for a King to entertain orders, but I will allow it just this once.
[Still, his gaze wanders back to the item in question, a garish black vest with floral patterns in crimson. It's very obvious he wants it but is trying to behave for her sake.]
If it is as you claim, that we might feel victorious... then it may be worth uncharacteristic restraint.
[Uncharacteristic restraint. That sounded almost scary, especially with greater context.]
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Thank you, Gilgamesh. I am a country; you may not be my direct boss, but I will not lead you astray. [Because even if he was her leader, she actually likes him enough to give him the best.
Uncharacteristic restraint. She may not know how far that can go, but she has witnessed it enough in the dungeon to know that he really does have trouble with restraint.] Patience is also a powerful weapon.
[A bare smile lingering on the corner of her lips before she stares at the window in deep concentration. Vietnam had noted that Gilgamesh really wants that vest. Her gaze flickers over to him briefly, as she quickly sizes him up; it's not accurate, but she estimates that the vest is in his size.
Never mind creating it, it's like Gilgamesh and the vest was fated to be together. As strange as it may sound, events like these do happen. Perhaps he must have it. But there's no way in hell they'd be able to get it looking like they do now: white uniforms in a terrible state and covered in dirt.]
Please wait here. [The shopkeepers on the Airy have given her a few mixed messages. Some are willing to sell and bargain to heroes, but others are little less friendly. Vietnam lets go of Gilgamesh and walks swiftly towards the end of the markets, hoping that he did wait patiently as she said. Don't worry, she'll be as fast as she can be!
Fast forward to present: Vietnam returns, having quickly dressed up in Ma Jiang fashion of rich silks and flowing robes and a feather hair ornament tying her hair. It's not completely foreign to her, seeing as she was raised up in similar culture.
In her arms she carries another set; seeing as Gilgamesh liked gold, she had picked those colours, with warm reds. And all of this cost very little since she choose a particularly shady store.]
Please change into this, we will have a much easier time getting what you want if we're looking much cleaner. [Non-conning another to dress up...she knows how it feels to be on the receiving end, though.]
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I understand. I would do my best.
[So Gilgamesh waits, as he's told, as he's promised he would obey. It isn't for long, though he finds himself missing the feel of her hand in his, however brief it may have been. Gilgamesh was a terrible tyrant but was at times no better than a dog, and so greets Vietnam like one once she returns, with an enthusiastic wave and a broad grin.
And my, isn't she a sight? Now that he's gotten a good look at her up close outside a dungeon, he must admit: he likes what he sees. She isn't overly feminine, in fact on the tougher side, but that's exactly what he favors in a woman. Yet she's divine all dressed up, and he can't help but tease her with a mild tug to that pretty pin.]
Well, since you went through all that trouble, I suppose I can humor you. Give it here.
[No such non-con! Gilgamesh takes the clothes and hurries to try them on. He's excited!]
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Now, Vietnam had to admit, Gilgamesh's enthusiastic greeting was endearing, one enough to bring a smile to her face. It's not something she notices, but Gilgamesh is charming enough to make her smile more often than she knows. Even while he's being pushy. It's probably also because he's pushy. But she's happy when she returns, because he did as she told him to do.]
Ah? [She watches as he plays with her pin, and chuckles softly.] I hope this is not over doing it. [That being said, she feels comfortable, just a month without wearing her ao dai and she's already happy to make do with this.
But look, he's rolling with it! What a champ. She gives a small wave as he walks off.]
Thank you, Gilgamesh. [Actually, she's a little nervous. He's excited, but what if he doesn't like them?! Sure, he's probably worn robes of silk before, but he's a King! She did try to pick something that would suit him, but what if it's too humble for his tastes?
And so Vietnam's train of thought drifts off into mild paranoia.]
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And, fortunately, he quickly falls in love with her selections. The robes—a gentle gold with hibiscus print running along the side—are simple yet elegant, evocative of a classy king, set off by a bold crimson sash along his front. As a desert dweller, he's ever appreciative of sandals for freer movement. And, of course, he's fond of his jewelry, with a beaded bracelet and a feathered ruby pendant swaying from his wrists and neck respectively.
All in all, tasteful choices that don't make him feel too poor, either. Gilgamesh comes out with a big smile on his face, and without warning, promptly picks her up and twirls her around. Maybe he's a mere man now, but he's got strength enough to surprise her.]
See us now, we match! We will surely be the envy of everyone this day.
[Gilgamesh rarely expresses his gratitude to anyone for anything, but that's likely as close as she'll ever come to a thank you.]
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Though, relief was not the first thing that came to her when he came out with that big smile on his face, clearly pleased with the selection. She practically chokes as she sees him, since he looks the part of a fine, elegant noble and is incredibly handsome. It's not out of place, and it's not overdone. She chose a whole lot better than she expected.
And she doesn't even have time to be relieved AND admire him since she's lifted from the ground and finds herself holding onto his shoulders just to keep herself from flying.]
W-we do! [She clears her throat, trying to remain as cool as possible.] I mean, it suits you so well. I am sure the others won't be able to keep their eyes off of you.
[She's being honest, not just fanning his ego! Never mind that she's flushing because he picked her up.]
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Gilgamesh sets her down again, then shakes his head, now insistent.]
I believe it is time to treat you. If you say you are talented with a needle, I shall put that to the test.
[Loud enough for the whole market to hear, Gilgamesh declares:]
REJOICE! From this point forward, you will serve as my royal seamstress! Are you ready for work?
[Once more slipping into her personal space, he throws an arm around her shoulders and gives her a chummy pat.]
Or, should I say, are you ready for me to drown you in more fabric than you know what to do with?!
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She's silent for a while, because she's about 100% sure that Gilgamesh thinks a promotion is one way to reward her. Vietnam starts to laugh, more so than usual. But it's pleasant, refreshing laugh, not ridiculous like one where she's laughing at an ugly t-shirt. It's just so strange that she doesn't even mind anyone looking at them. Gilgamesh, at times, can be hideously pure.]
What an honour. [She pats her own chest, and he'll be able to feel her straightening up under his arm, rather proudly.] I will get that vest for you and show you the ways of haggling. But once I start making your clothes, covering with more fabric than you can imagine? [And she's pretty sure he can imagine quite a bit.
She reaches over to smooth out his collar.] You'll never want to wear anything else. I can promise you that.
[Actually, she's half-joking. Because she's sure there are very fine clothes that Gilgamesh will want to wear and she didn't make. The purpose of making him stuff is to stop him from wrecking himself.]
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But at times, he could be youthful; ambitious; energetic; even compassionate, in small doses, to those who earned his favor. The tales told of a tyrant, but they also told of a man that loved his brother, adored his people, and always sought the spirit of adventure to the very end. An honor, indeed, that Gilgamesh might set aside his surliness and look upon a woman with such friendly eyes—eyes that expected nothing in return.]
I will be a most attentive student. Assuming your lessons are worthwhile, of course.
[He preens when his clothes are straightened, posing for her benefit like the proudest of birds.]
And I shall hold you to it. Let us be on our way, then.
[And so a Hero and a country set off together. Though they pass many stores, Gilgamesh insists on the best. Only when they reach a shop that's overflowing with all manner of cloth and fabric does Gilgamesh see fit to enter, and once he does, he gestures to Vietnam with a sweep of his arm, as if to say it is all yours.
...maybe not all of it. But it's a hidden paradise for any seamstress, and she'll have plenty to choose from within.]
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Besides, if he could handle orders from a fiercely independent woman such as herself after calling her his royal seamstress, then really, it's not so bad. That and he's completely entertaining.]
You've already been so good thus far, I'm already feeling pressure. But yes, let's. [One would say she shouldn't feel pressure, but even if Gilgamesh was a goddamn saint, she still would. Because she's about as self-critical as he is egotistic. Bleak.
But yes, now he looks very fine, and off they go! There were many shops on the way that Vietnam would say could pass, but if Gilgamesh insists on working with the best, then she is fine with that. As long as they don't end up paying exuberant prices even after they drops it low.
The shop they finally stop in front, however, has her standing there eyes wide before she clears her throat and regains her cool. Goodness, look at that silk. And how can a roll of thread be so fine?!
To roll with Gilgamesh so graciously gesturing for her to enter, she curtseys back before stepping in, checking to see if he follows. Vietnam is a girl of simple needs and simple pleasures, but at the moment, she endlessly imagines what she could make with all of these. They wouldn't need to shop at (Insert various Designer Label lines here) at Blanc!
Right, calm down. Take this one step at a time.]
What catches your eye so far, Gilgamesh?
no subject
Hm...
[He pauses a moment, glancing around the various sheets and rolls, then offers his advice. Surprisingly good advice for an apparently lazy King, but Gilgamesh was a bit more talented than his obnoxious attitudes initially let on. In reality, he was good at all kinds of things.]
A sheet of sheer black will serve you sufficiently, as it can be incorporated into many different designs. Next, jewel colors, such as ruby, emerald, and sapphire, look good in nearly everything. As you know, I am partial to gold, but those beneath the level of King do not always wear it well.
[What else? Gilgamesh walks to the wall, where all kinds of patterns are displayed.]
Flowers... flowers are nice. And of course, the classic fleur-de-lis! It adds a touch of refinement to any piece.
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All great legends come from great sources, so Gilgamesh's reply is not completely surprising to her. Perhaps how levelheaded he delivered it, but she's sure she just needed to get to know him more.
Besides, his advice was perfection. He might be flashy, but he has his basics covered! He just needs to know that with these basics, he can tone it down.]
Such good thoughts! They have all of those here, so we can look at them one by one. [It's preferable they purchase a decent variety so that his clothes wouldn't be fixed to one design. She follows him as he looks at the patterns, before moving over to the side to lift up the ends of one of the black rolls. There's a very faint floral pattern on it, more clearly seen under the light.]
I think this might look nice on you. For the evening.
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Gilgamesh sets their prospective purchases on a nearby shelf to get a better look at the pattern. He starts to unroll it... and unroll it... and unroll it... and within seconds he's unrolled it so much he looks like he's wearing an evening wrap. He's clearly doing it to get a rise out of Vietnam rather than provide any meaningful assistance, winking with a handsome grin at her.]
Flawless, no? Among the many talents of the King is the ability to wear anything and everything with absolute aplomb!
[Surely he's aware he's just being ridiculous... but with Gilgamesh, who could ever really tell?]
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Though typically, he has his moments. She's not entirely sure if it's Gilgamesh, or it's Gilgamesh-picking-on-Vietnam (because everyone picks on Vietnam), or even a bit of both, but seeing him engulf himself in the layers of fabric, looking like a dark king with an incredibly long and elegant wrap (aside from the unkempt edges) has her caught between half laughing and half freaking out at the mess they're going to clean up.
GILGAMESH...WHAT IS SHE GOING TO DO WITH YOU. One of his many talents also needs to include tidiness. Somewhere the npc shopkeeper is probably hoping they're going to buy all of that. That or the npc shopkeeper is a middle aged lady who is probably checking him out. ONE OR THE OTHER.
However, she steps forward and start fixing it, smoothing it over his shoulders and dusting off bits of thread. It's strangely calm, soothing, and there's now a peaceful expression on her face.]
Ah yes...very handsome...
[Until she tightens the wrap around him, grabs their fabrics and tries to pull him along while he's still wrapped up.]
I would like to take this much as is! [She's joking, she'll unravel him soon.]
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Am I not? You know, after this, we should...
[Should what? It's lost to her own shenanigans, as he gets caught up in the roll and... well...]
WAH!
[...wobbles and falls flat onto his face. Don't blame him too much; even as a Servant, his Agility was C-rank at best. He winds up rolling around on the floor helplessly, and that sure presents an interesting image of the so-called King of Heroes. So much for being manly.]
H... hey! That wasn't fair! Now look what you've done, woman, I went and cracked my skull open!
[No, Gilgamesh, your skull is just fine. He's being a big baby.]
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Too bad she'll never know what he was about to offer. But at least she's not one to laugh at his misfortune and poor reflexes. In fact, she didn't expect his Agility stats to be that bad, otherwise she would've caught him.
The noise he made was ridiculously endearing, and while she would've thought it was cute, she was also WORRIED THAT HE HURT HIMSELF. Which would be her fault. She didn't catch him in time!]
Gilgamesh! [C-cute...he's rolling. NO STOP NOW IS NOT THE TIME. She quickly kneels down next to him, trying to tug him free from the fabric (this fabric is terribly strong, she's going to really have to buy it for real. It seems to be battle friendly).]
A-ah, I'm sorry, I went too far. Where does it hurt?
[As soon as he has more wriggle room, she cups his face and tries to find where he hit himself. In any case she tries to soothe (randomly) any possible place he may have "cracked his skull" open with.]
no subject
Everywhere.
[He hadn't even fallen a foot... but hey, if she's going to worry over him this much, he'd be a fool not to take advantage of it. Though it's quite clear he could wriggle himself free if he bothered to make the effort, instead he sits there, and pouts, and blinks ever so coquettishly at Vietnam. Who could resist eyes so red, lips so pert, and a face so handsomely in distress? This is a crisis, and it demands her utmost focus to resolve!
A+ Charisma: activated.]
I require immediate and intimate attention all over my body. At once. Ah, make haste, I am fading from this world...
[And it had been going so well, too. Perhaps the true colors of the King of Heroes are on display at last: those of an irredeemable pervert.]
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A-ah, really? Here let me help... [She gently ran her fingers through his hair, making trying to rub out the pain (what pain) before drawing it down his neck--
Then he had to open his mouth. A mouth she still needs to talk to him about because she still remembers the incident in the dungeon. Yikes. But yes...an uncouth pervert...
Luckily for Gilgamesh, she didn't go straight for the option to strangle or drop kick him, because this was partially her fault.
She hasn't pulled her hands back yet, but her eye twitches.] Is that so? Where does it hurt most?
no subject
But now he's stuck playing his own game, and inevitably losing at it, and there's no clear path out of it so he may as well try his luck at bluffing her even though he will undoubtedly wind up with a very sore face because of it. Possibly sore other places, too, feminine wrath could be rather ill-discerning.
Here goes nothing.]
My cheek?
[So obviously that mean it should be lovingly and tenderly stroked. Might as well try to make the most of this...]
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He could've said many many things, but of all places he went with cheek. Eyes widen slightly in surprise, because that was a lot more tamer than she expected. She's guessing he's either picked up on her cues, or she's just way too used to expecting worse from living in the house of France. Could even be both.
Hell doesn't have to come immediately, she can see how much further he tries to dig himself out of trouble. Besides, she likes meeting challenges, and really? That's a king bound before her, one trying to get out of trouble, one he probably could easily get out, but he remains. It's working on her subconscious (empowering).
So she runs her fingers up to his face before she cups his cheeks (both cheeks, she's covering both bases), tenderly stroking them. Outwardly, it looks like a simple action, but he should be able to feel all the slight finger movements against his skin, rhythmic and slow.]
Is this better? [Her voice is suspiciously smoother than honey...that usually spells trouble. Good luck, Gilgamesh!!]
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