[He strides in a moment after her, huffing in vague amusement.]
Roommates? Is that what we are, now? You have a gift for colloquialism without even trying, Shuten.
[When he exits on the other side, moonlight steals away all daylight — they are cast beneath the silver luminescence of the moon, high atop a castle roof, just as requested. One of the less angled spots, of course, else there would hardly be practical space for what seems to be a small liquor tale with a complete serving set for sake.
Somehow, during his arrival on the other side of the portal, his attire has changed, too. Simple slacks, a dark button-up shirt. He doesn’t expect that they should be caught up here, a pair of trespassers as they legally are, but best to blend in if need be. His Servant’s bothered to modernize, and he can do the same — even if it reminds him a little of his old life.
He spreads his hands idly, indicating the swathe of their surroundings. ]
Mm. Well, besides the rudimentary knowledge granted by the Servant system, I've picked up a few things from just being around you and the humans of this world. It wouldn't do if I stumbled through this life like some unsophisticated country bumpkin.
[ Shuten circles the table appraising the setup that's been created for her. When she turns to face him, her head tilts at his sudden change of clothing and there's a nod of approval. ]
And this... is very satisfactory. I've no complaints.
[ As she stands there bathed completely in the pallid moonlight and breathing in the air of her native land, Shuten Douji almost feels and looks entirely in her element. There are just a few certain somethings that are not within her grasp though such as the company of fellow Chaldea Servants that could liven up even the most simple of moon-viewing parties. Unless she is surrounded by many others, Shuten wonders if this particular feeling that's been growing and roiling within would disappear.
Ah, she's much too sentimental for an oni. That's the problem.
She already starts getting to work on the sake by plopping herself down on a cushion in front of the sake and pouring herself a serving. ]
Should we invite some other sorcerers with us next time? I'd love to see, for instance, that one called Wong, hold his own against me. I can't be the only company you have around.
[Stephen casts his gaze up to the moonlight before sparing the rest of his attentions to the oni before him — it isn’t hard to remember that she should always garner the majority of it when he’s in her presence. Though he trusts her in a very… cautious way, there is no forgetting one simple truth: she is an oni, and a powerful one, too, with a reputation for devouring men. Stephen knows to treat such entities with both underlying and well-deserved respect, Master and Servant notwithstanding.
So his hesitation before he deems to sit before the liquor stand is palpable and obvious. He does not wish to get too comfortable, but perhaps it’s a moot point by now. He’s already set this favor in motion for her.
Sighing, he takes a “seat”, which is just him easing into a crossed-legged sit while levitating in the air, just high enough to pour himself a meager serving of sake.]
Wong has better sense than to drink against you. So do I.
[A sip, his expression barely changing.]
The students, not as much. I won’t let them fall into that kind of folly — a drinking party with an oni. What, have you grown bored of me already?
[ She's settled in and raises her small sake cup to Stephen as a lazy cheers before taking a preliminary sip. ]
But drinking with the youngsters is a different kind of fun, is all. They're less careful and prone to showing off in front of me. Let's call having a banquet with me as part of their training then? A lesson in entertaining an oni.
[ Drinking with Shuten is a lesson in never letting your guard down, certainly. Some of them found out the hard way that she was crazy strong despite her petite appearance.
Although really, the teeth and horns should say more than enough. ]
As for you... I will gladly take all the time in this world I have to savor you, Master.
[Stephen hums, his levitation keeping him floating steady, as though he were sitting atop the surface of still water.]
Entertainment for you, perhaps. You’re not the one who has to deal with the aftermath of utterly destroyed students. Amusing for a tick, but overall bad for their studies in the morning.
[He drinks again.]
“All the time in the world”. Having that privilege must be nice for you — but as I recall, I wasn’t brought here just to drink under the moonlight. Or am I moving too quickly for you?
I suggest keeping an eye on the ones who were still able to trade blows with me despite their intake. It'd be a waste if they didn't improve in their studies.
[ The sake cup balances on top of her sharp nails and she softly inhales the aroma of her drink. Shuten stares up at the moon and how the light dances on the surface of the sake. ]
Well, you were given a pretense. I might as well address that... You see...
[ She pauses to gulp up half of her beverage before continuing. ]
As a Servant, I shouldn't be able to remember my past summons and previous Masters. But having so much time for myself to reminisce I've realized ever since answering your call that I've retained quite a recollection.
[His brow arches, his grip light on his sake bowl, as though balanced on fingers too useless for the delicacy he displays.]
Interesting. No memories for the sake of not muddying up bias? I can understand that, but it still seems…
[Dehumanizing. Cruel, almost, if one were to take the stance of individuality fashioned from memories creating the individual. But Stephen decides not to say anything in case he leads the conversation astray in a direction unintended.]
Mm, never mind. Your point being that you do remember, and that is… what? Good? Bad? Terrible?
Either or, or nothing at all. We have a unique situation here with our partnership. But I would think that you, being a protector of this world and its realities could find it relevant.
[ Holding the edges of her cup, Shuten swirls its remaining contents in a circular motion. ]
I was summoned... Or perhaps another projection of myself exists simultaneously in the service of an organization called Chaldea and its single Master. I am among the many Heroic Spirits who answered the call to preserve the human order and correct singularities found in human history.
[ Despite her lazy behavior, hedonism, and undeniable monsterhood, Shuten Douji had qualified as a protector of the world. Apparently they needed all the help they can get from the most honorable knight to the most heinous of killers. Infamy, had power in the end. ]
For me, whether here or there, it all boils down to this; I wonder if this world itself is a singularity... Or something worse.
[Now, this is interesting, and perhaps a bit worrisome. Stephen leans forward a little, one elbow resting on a knee. The other hand keeps his sake balanced, though drinking has taken a backseat in the face of what is, basically, talking shop.
Singularities. Different timelines, splitting realities? The explanation is vague at best, and so he prods.]
I should argue the point that this world has plenty who might “correct” all that ails it. [Dryly. Amongst himself there are no death of those that would labels themselves heroes to protect this planet of theirs.] But what exactly constitutes a singularity? The subtext you’re spinning is that this world—my world, mind—is irregular in a way that needs fixing.
[The “or worse” bit is, ah. Interesting.]
That isn’t a claim to make lightly; one could say that we’ve attracted enough attention as it is.
Let's see... [ How to describe what Chaldea had been dealing with without boring herself? ]
What Chaldea calls a "Singularity" is like a hole that has opened up within their recorded timeline. My other Master had initially been sent to these regions to undo these little historical disruptions.
[ There is lot more to these events but Shuten always goes for brevity rather than anything in depth; attempts to press her usually has her smiling breezily and waving off any concerns. ]
Though I do think if this world was one, I'd be having much more fun clashing swords with other Servants who'd be running about causing havoc. Simply put, things here are marvelously stable at least by this universe's standards.
And this is the part where I say that seems like a very reductive way to describe any kind of blip on what others would call a "normal" timeline. The multiverse is vast and nearly infinite; what is a recorded timeline for some might be an alternate reality for others. Vice-versa. Every action taken has a thousand potential consequences that lead to more actions, and all of it spiderwebs outwards into what most cannot see or comprehend.
The possibilities are endless.
[Here, a punctuated drink. The workings of the multiverse are too grand and esoteric to be called old hat, but Stephen has seen the behind the curtain more than once. Even so, the worldliness of his assured statement notwithstanding, these truths still have the potential to make him restless. He shifts, as though he is neglecting work that needs to be seen to.]
That said, you stated just now that you thought this world might be a singularity, or worse. Do you know something I don't?
[ Shuten drains her cup completely, her violet eyes never breaking its gaze from the sorcerer sitting across from her. Through her ever present smile, her more predatory nature persists as she assesses Stephen.
The youkai of Mount Ooe does this a lot to him. Her whims are as dangerous as her ability to intoxicate others. And even if she says she likes him and approves of their bond it doesn't erase the mere possibility of her boredom changing her mind. ]
... There are phenomena that are cut off from the greater multiverse. Histories of 'failure' you could call it. If your gaze reaches that far, then I commend you Master.
[ This time Shuten pours sake from her own vessel; the dangerous brew which she drinks as if it were water. ]
These 'failures' are very specific divergences that lead to humanity's downfall. There is no progress. There is no hope. Everything and everyone that remains are to be erased should it try to take over the 'present' reality.
I should wonder really... could my summoning to a world that doesn't need Servants be the start?
[And here, a clear cinch of the brows. His eyes remain fixed on his Servant, undeterred by the nature of her gaze — beguilement to him, after all, merely means another reason to tread carefully. To present only with caution.]
What exactly are you getting at, Shuten? That your summoning has pulled the trigger towards another historical “failure”?
[Deadpan, though failing to cover the shadow twitching across his features:]
[ Shuten lets out a sudden cackle at his response as she fills her cup to the brim. Some of it drips down her arm and she gives it a lick before replying. ]
Who said anything about going back? I just wanted to know what you think, boy.
You've indicated that you understand what kind of Spirit I am and what I was in my past life, but were you ever truly prepared? Are you actually ready for the potential consequences and what it means to be my Master if you are to wield me?
[ Around her the fumes of her personal drink begin to swirl around her in a cloud of noxious purple mist and the scent grows stronger. It's sickeningly sweet made to confuse and weaken just like her sultry voice. ]
Tell me Doctor Stephen Strange—
[ She stands up and her clothing reverts to her usual garments. She levels with him and everything about her yells she's looking for a fight. ]
What's stopping me from eating you right here and now?
[Ah, he thinks, and here we are. The moment he expected due — the oni being an oni, which he has always accounted for, even if he trusted her enough to believe she would keep those figurative fangs dulled for a while longer. Stephen straightens, looking at her without giving much away. A steady glance to pierce through the swirling fog of heady drink; he does little more than lift his chin to account for her new stance, standing and ready to take baleful action.]
I have faced much worse than you, Shuten.
[He does not mean it as a hit to her pride, but so be it if it is. She is an oni of ill repute, one who might try to strip flesh from bone at a moment’s notice — but she is no Dormammu. Her hovering threat does not make him flinch, bolstered by past experiences, already looped with death over and over and over—]
But to answer your question, this, I imagine.
[His free hand raises to show the spirit seals imprinted there. The obvious answer — and the dull one. So he continues.]
Yet you know that. So tell me, are you fishing for a response? Is this a test? Or have you gone restless during your time in my service, and now you’re flashing your fangs to keep yourself amused?
[He huffs.]
Don’t tell me you asked me out here for that, and that alone.
[ When he reveals the Command Seals, that actually makes Shuten pause. ]
... Oh. Of course. [ That totally did not just slip her mind, nope. ] Three seals, three chances to assert or assist. Hm.
[ She notably has not put away her sake vessel yet. The brew in her cup glows dully, not yet at a high potency to be weaponized. ]
Truthfully, dear, boredom is part of it.
[ Thinking back on it, her time at Chaldea (in between resolving smaller singularities, the strange festivities, and the Losbelts) was fairly relaxed. Surrounded by many other powerful Heroic Spirits including her favorite individuals, there were plenty of drinking and fighting partners. Of course, certain individuals spoiled the mood sometimes, but never enough to deter her from answering Ritsuka Fujimaru's requests as needed.
This Shuten's current context was different. She was a bit bored and a bit curious. Sure she could cause mayhem and terrorize New York City by getting a bite to eat and let the bodies pile up, but they both knew very well it was easy to put a stop to that sort of mischief.
Her blade appears to replace her sake cup. ]
If you need time to think of a proper response, think about it while giving me a fight. You can at least do that much.
[Much like her to forget about the most basic modes of protection keeping him whole and hale if the oni gets a little peckish. But that isn't the real point of contention here, is it? This isn't the equivalent of a diabolic demeanor getting the best of one -- no, it's a matter of languor and restlessness. Of nibbling on a midnight snack because there's nothing else to keep entertainment running high.
How flattering, to be equated to leftovers in a fridge. Stephen severs the thought in his mind, which is easy to do when swirling, purple fumes are tendriling in his direction.]
Really?
[A touch of exasperation, watching the glint of that blade. He sighs as he places his sake on the wooden stand dividing them, and the white porcelain nearly glows beneath the moonlight.]
What a disservice I've done you, that you're picking a fight on a castle roof instead of enjoying your usual vice. But the mistake was mine, first, in assuming your violent tendencies could be fully directed elsewhere.
[ As the question goes; have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?
It looks like Strange is about to answer that question, what with Shuten starting to circle around him as the moonlight illuminates her form. ]
Don't take this the wrong way; I'm not trying to be disliked by you.
[ She knows her likes and dislikes and thinks it is unbecoming to focus so keenly on the latter. But her way of liking or loving is deadly and inhuman. ]
There aren't as many distractions around me... And besides.
[ She takes a large swig directly from her gourd this time with her free hand. Exhaling deeply, she smiles at Stephen, a fresh drunken flush flooding her cheeks. ]
Fighting for your life, inebriated and outwitting your opponent is its own kind of fun you know?
So think fast.
[ And thus she disappears into her spirit form. Looks like she's doing what she wants but on a more deadly level now. ]
[Think fast, indeed. This isn’t what he planned on, exactly—having to indulge his Servant’s whims by sparring on a rooftop in Japan—but he cannot say it’s wholly unexpected. Best to nip this not-quite-problem in the bud before it became a problem proper. Best that he deals with it instead of Wong, or instead of a student getting too in over their heads, too fast.]
Fine.
[There’s a punctuation to that word, a concession that goes out of its way to sound beleaguered. A second later, and Stephen’s on his feet. A second later, blink and you’ve probably missed it, he’s in his sorcerer’s garb, his cloak a bright streak of red even in the blueish night, which might have something to do with the levitation moments before.
Shuten is nowhere to be seen just yet, but his senses are keen, and already there’s a hint of magic at his fingertips, aglow in the dark.]
Who is outwitting who?
[Excuse you, but he can take that as a challenge.]
[ Ritsuka Fujimaru, Chaldea's only Master was not exactly a combatant; they directed the Servants' battles and supported them with their limited abilities; her word was the ultimate command. For that, Shuten Douji was lenient with what she considered an adorable hardworking child who had fought her fair share of hellish battles. She never laid a hand on Ritsuka even if she playfully and shamelessly flirted with her, letting her know that the Master's bones had become most delectable in her eyes.
This current Shuten Douji, the Assassin-class Servant wants this deadly dance because this Master had more potential to go toe-to-toe with her. It's new, it's intriguing, and it'll stave off her inner lull. There's also something about Stephen Strange's determined blue eyes when faced with danger, that makes her want to take a closer and intimate look. ]
Hi there.
[ Her luscious drunken voice sounds like it's right next to his ear before the oni appears above of him to deliver a drop kick. ]
[The air is heady and brackish with a fruity, alcoholic scent. It’s warning enough even before her silken drawl sounds in the shell of his ear, and magic encircles Stephen’s hands as he ducks low to bring them up and over his head. A sparking shield of amber light forms, and sparks fly when her heel slams into his newly-created protection.]
Hi.
[Cheeky. Stephen pushes forward, the shield following suit. He intends to send her flying back, and with any success, conjure up a portal for her to fall into mid-flight.
Where it leads? No one knows, she’ll just have to find out.]
[ Oh she won't let herself fall into any of those portals yet. Shuten's sober enough to keep that in the back of her mind and the oni wants to see if she can even land a hit. Having fought with human warriors in the Heian era, she knows better than to underestimate their capabilities. And it would be insulting to him for her to take him so lightly no?
When Stephen pushes back with his magic shield, Shuten hums and uses both of her feet to spring off the surface and land only a few feet away from him.
Let's see if she can get him drunk. A sake dish appears in one hand already full of the glowing rainbow-colored liquid. While she creates some more distance between them Shuten holds it out in front of her tipping the vessel lightly until one drop hits the ground.
And that drop transforms into a tidal wave that rushes towards the sorcerer. Is it enough to melt him down? No, but it's thick and sickeningly sweet, and lesser men than Stephen would probably keel over like he's seen before. ]
[The portal behind her snaps closed, with no oni to gobble up this time — a shame, he thinks, but it’s time that he focuses his magic elsewhere, now that she’s landed before him and using her vessel in ways he’s seen in battle before.
Not that it makes this any less worrisome, of course. He’s never had that saccharine sweet drink literally attempt to flood his senses, and Stephen flings up another magical shield to block the tide hurtling his way. It slams against his magic, then sweeps along the sides, the only place it’s given clearance. Enough to stall the immediate effect, but not enough to stop it from completely sloshing at his soles, thickening the air with a drunken sweetness that already has him feeling dizzy.
He knows better than to linger, and so he doesn’t. Stephen leaps up into the air and hovers swiftly above Shuten’s head with the help of his cloak, conjuring up a whip with magic. He flings it at her, aiming to wrap around the hand balancing her vessel.]
[ Her eyes follow his movements and the magic whip he conjures is successful in wrapping around her wrist which drops her vessel. It causes the alcohol in the surrounding perimeter to evaporate instantly.
Shuten isn't totally upset; you don't live as long as she did if you linger on every imperfect move. ]
Trying to bind me already, huh? Bold man. I like it.
[ Instead, she's going to put her monstrous strength to good use by using her other hand to yank on the chain to pull him out of the air and towards her. ]
[Good development: that noxiously potent sake is out of the picture, dissipated the moment her vessel clatters to the floor. Bad development: her strength is what one would expect of an oni, far greater than his own, and Stephen finds himself yanked forward like he was the one on the leash.
Not as planned, clearly, but often he’s had to adjust his plans accordingly — the sorcerer doesn’t bother trying to change his trajectory, instead allowing physics to play its role. His mass is yanked straight into her, which he plans to use much like a ball clattering into another on a pool table. And the corner pocket just happens to be yet another portal opening up right behind them both — they can both take the plunge this time, unless she’s fast enough to redirect them both.]
[ Shuten has pulled Stephen so that he's a few inches away from her. The energy she has grasped makes her fingers tingle and up close, the sorcerer can see her lighthearted expression. And that's the thing, isn't it? She's having fun making him fight for his life and seeing him struggle. What a troublesome familiar Shuten Douji is, and that's putting it lightly.
Her ears perk up at the sound of the portal opening beneath them. The oni could have managed a redirection but... ]
Now, where does this lead us? I'd like to see what surprise you have for me in there.
[ With a delighted giggle, Shuten allows herself to drop downwards taking Stephen with her. ]
[It’s a void, really, once they fall through. Just endless motion and nothingness, gravity or some facsimile of it flinging them downwards, like stones dropped from the top of a skyscraper. Falling, falling, falling. An eternity of it.
Shuten might recognize this dimension as one used to keep a certain Asgardian trickster god busy, but that’s neither here nor there.
Stephen plummets right beside her, the swell of his cloak fluttering behind in a red swath. He looks nonplussed, almost comfortably assured.]
Shuten… Tell me something. Does an oni have a third eye?
[ Well, well, well. Shuten lazily lets go of Stephen as they both fall through the endless void. Using her giant gourd as a seat, she drapes herself across it to look at the sorcerer. Her hair dances from the air created from their endless descent. ]
An interesting question, Sweetie. Some onis have literal third eyes, but aside from that...
[ Falling is a different sensation from getting drunk. It's not entirely unpleasant, but she gets the feeling that he's trying to resolve this without any major injuries for either of them. ]
Trying to end this in a stalemate, are you? No third eye on my pretty person here, but I have some foresight when it comes to these little bouts.
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no subject
Roommates? Is that what we are, now? You have a gift for colloquialism without even trying, Shuten.
[When he exits on the other side, moonlight steals away all daylight — they are cast beneath the silver luminescence of the moon, high atop a castle roof, just as requested. One of the less angled spots, of course, else there would hardly be practical space for what seems to be a small liquor tale with a complete serving set for sake.
Somehow, during his arrival on the other side of the portal, his attire has changed, too. Simple slacks, a dark button-up shirt. He doesn’t expect that they should be caught up here, a pair of trespassers as they legally are, but best to blend in if need be. His Servant’s bothered to modernize, and he can do the same — even if it reminds him a little of his old life.
He spreads his hands idly, indicating the swathe of their surroundings. ]
Satisfactory, I assume.
no subject
[ Shuten circles the table appraising the setup that's been created for her. When she turns to face him, her head tilts at his sudden change of clothing and there's a nod of approval. ]
And this... is very satisfactory. I've no complaints.
[ As she stands there bathed completely in the pallid moonlight and breathing in the air of her native land, Shuten Douji almost feels and looks entirely in her element. There are just a few certain somethings that are not within her grasp though such as the company of fellow Chaldea Servants that could liven up even the most simple of moon-viewing parties. Unless she is surrounded by many others, Shuten wonders if this particular feeling that's been growing and roiling within would disappear.
Ah, she's much too sentimental for an oni. That's the problem.
She already starts getting to work on the sake by plopping herself down on a cushion in front of the sake and pouring herself a serving. ]
Should we invite some other sorcerers with us next time? I'd love to see, for instance, that one called Wong, hold his own against me. I can't be the only company you have around.
no subject
So his hesitation before he deems to sit before the liquor stand is palpable and obvious. He does not wish to get too comfortable, but perhaps it’s a moot point by now. He’s already set this favor in motion for her.
Sighing, he takes a “seat”, which is just him easing into a crossed-legged sit while levitating in the air, just high enough to pour himself a meager serving of sake.]
Wong has better sense than to drink against you. So do I.
[A sip, his expression barely changing.]
The students, not as much. I won’t let them fall into that kind of folly — a drinking party with an oni. What, have you grown bored of me already?
no subject
[ She's settled in and raises her small sake cup to Stephen as a lazy cheers before taking a preliminary sip. ]
But drinking with the youngsters is a different kind of fun, is all. They're less careful and prone to showing off in front of me. Let's call having a banquet with me as part of their training then? A lesson in entertaining an oni.
[ Drinking with Shuten is a lesson in never letting your guard down, certainly. Some of them found out the hard way that she was crazy strong despite her petite appearance.
Although really, the teeth and horns should say more than enough. ]
As for you... I will gladly take all the time in this world I have to savor you, Master.
no subject
Entertainment for you, perhaps. You’re not the one who has to deal with the aftermath of utterly destroyed students. Amusing for a tick, but overall bad for their studies in the morning.
[He drinks again.]
“All the time in the world”. Having that privilege must be nice for you — but as I recall, I wasn’t brought here just to drink under the moonlight. Or am I moving too quickly for you?
no subject
[ The sake cup balances on top of her sharp nails and she softly inhales the aroma of her drink. Shuten stares up at the moon and how the light dances on the surface of the sake. ]
Well, you were given a pretense. I might as well address that... You see...
[ She pauses to gulp up half of her beverage before continuing. ]
As a Servant, I shouldn't be able to remember my past summons and previous Masters. But having so much time for myself to reminisce I've realized ever since answering your call that I've retained quite a recollection.
no subject
Interesting. No memories for the sake of not muddying up bias? I can understand that, but it still seems…
[Dehumanizing. Cruel, almost, if one were to take the stance of individuality fashioned from memories creating the individual. But Stephen decides not to say anything in case he leads the conversation astray in a direction unintended.]
Mm, never mind. Your point being that you do remember, and that is… what? Good? Bad? Terrible?
no subject
[ Holding the edges of her cup, Shuten swirls its remaining contents in a circular motion. ]
I was summoned... Or perhaps another projection of myself exists simultaneously in the service of an organization called Chaldea and its single Master. I am among the many Heroic Spirits who answered the call to preserve the human order and correct singularities found in human history.
[ Despite her lazy behavior, hedonism, and undeniable monsterhood, Shuten Douji had qualified as a protector of the world. Apparently they needed all the help they can get from the most honorable knight to the most heinous of killers. Infamy, had power in the end. ]
For me, whether here or there, it all boils down to this; I wonder if this world itself is a singularity... Or something worse.
[ damn what could be worse ]
no subject
Singularities. Different timelines, splitting realities? The explanation is vague at best, and so he prods.]
I should argue the point that this world has plenty who might “correct” all that ails it. [Dryly. Amongst himself there are no death of those that would labels themselves heroes to protect this planet of theirs.] But what exactly constitutes a singularity? The subtext you’re spinning is that this world—my world, mind—is irregular in a way that needs fixing.
[The “or worse” bit is, ah. Interesting.]
That isn’t a claim to make lightly; one could say that we’ve attracted enough attention as it is.
no subject
What Chaldea calls a "Singularity" is like a hole that has opened up within their recorded timeline. My other Master had initially been sent to these regions to undo these little historical disruptions.
[ There is lot more to these events but Shuten always goes for brevity rather than anything in depth; attempts to press her usually has her smiling breezily and waving off any concerns. ]
Though I do think if this world was one, I'd be having much more fun clashing swords with other Servants who'd be running about causing havoc. Simply put, things here are marvelously stable at least by this universe's standards.
no subject
The possibilities are endless.
[Here, a punctuated drink. The workings of the multiverse are too grand and esoteric to be called old hat, but Stephen has seen the behind the curtain more than once. Even so, the worldliness of his assured statement notwithstanding, these truths still have the potential to make him restless. He shifts, as though he is neglecting work that needs to be seen to.]
That said, you stated just now that you thought this world might be a singularity, or worse. Do you know something I don't?
no subject
[ Shuten drains her cup completely, her violet eyes never breaking its gaze from the sorcerer sitting across from her. Through her ever present smile, her more predatory nature persists as she assesses Stephen.
The youkai of Mount Ooe does this a lot to him. Her whims are as dangerous as her ability to intoxicate others. And even if she says she likes him and approves of their bond it doesn't erase the mere possibility of her boredom changing her mind. ]
... There are phenomena that are cut off from the greater multiverse. Histories of 'failure' you could call it. If your gaze reaches that far, then I commend you Master.
[ This time Shuten pours sake from her own vessel; the dangerous brew which she drinks as if it were water. ]
These 'failures' are very specific divergences that lead to humanity's downfall. There is no progress. There is no hope. Everything and everyone that remains are to be erased should it try to take over the 'present' reality.
I should wonder really... could my summoning to a world that doesn't need Servants be the start?
no subject
What exactly are you getting at, Shuten? That your summoning has pulled the trigger towards another historical “failure”?
[Deadpan, though failing to cover the shadow twitching across his features:]
Trying to get me to send you back?
no subject
Who said anything about going back? I just wanted to know what you think, boy.
You've indicated that you understand what kind of Spirit I am and what I was in my past life, but were you ever truly prepared? Are you actually ready for the potential consequences and what it means to be my Master if you are to wield me?
[ Around her the fumes of her personal drink begin to swirl around her in a cloud of noxious purple mist and the scent grows stronger. It's sickeningly sweet made to confuse and weaken just like her sultry voice. ]
Tell me Doctor Stephen Strange—
[ She stands up and her clothing reverts to her usual garments. She levels with him and everything about her yells she's looking for a fight. ]
What's stopping me from eating you right here and now?
no subject
I have faced much worse than you, Shuten.
[He does not mean it as a hit to her pride, but so be it if it is. She is an oni of ill repute, one who might try to strip flesh from bone at a moment’s notice — but she is no Dormammu. Her hovering threat does not make him flinch, bolstered by past experiences, already looped with death over and over and over—]
But to answer your question, this, I imagine.
[His free hand raises to show the spirit seals imprinted there. The obvious answer — and the dull one. So he continues.]
Yet you know that. So tell me, are you fishing for a response? Is this a test? Or have you gone restless during your time in my service, and now you’re flashing your fangs to keep yourself amused?
[He huffs.]
Don’t tell me you asked me out here for that, and that alone.
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... Oh. Of course. [ That totally did not just slip her mind, nope. ] Three seals, three chances to assert or assist. Hm.
[ She notably has not put away her sake vessel yet. The brew in her cup glows dully, not yet at a high potency to be weaponized. ]
Truthfully, dear, boredom is part of it.
[ Thinking back on it, her time at Chaldea (in between resolving smaller singularities, the strange festivities, and the Losbelts) was fairly relaxed. Surrounded by many other powerful Heroic Spirits including her favorite individuals, there were plenty of drinking and fighting partners. Of course, certain individuals spoiled the mood sometimes, but never enough to deter her from answering Ritsuka Fujimaru's requests as needed.
This Shuten's current context was different. She was a bit bored and a bit curious. Sure she could cause mayhem and terrorize New York City by getting a bite to eat and let the bodies pile up, but they both knew very well it was easy to put a stop to that sort of mischief.
Her blade appears to replace her sake cup. ]
If you need time to think of a proper response, think about it while giving me a fight. You can at least do that much.
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How flattering, to be equated to leftovers in a fridge. Stephen severs the thought in his mind, which is easy to do when swirling, purple fumes are tendriling in his direction.]
Really?
[A touch of exasperation, watching the glint of that blade. He sighs as he places his sake on the wooden stand dividing them, and the white porcelain nearly glows beneath the moonlight.]
What a disservice I've done you, that you're picking a fight on a castle roof instead of enjoying your usual vice. But the mistake was mine, first, in assuming your violent tendencies could be fully directed elsewhere.
[You know, not at him or any of his colleagues.]
Is this really what you want?
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[ As the question goes; have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?
It looks like Strange is about to answer that question, what with Shuten starting to circle around him as the moonlight illuminates her form. ]
Don't take this the wrong way; I'm not trying to be disliked by you.
[ She knows her likes and dislikes and thinks it is unbecoming to focus so keenly on the latter. But her way of liking or loving is deadly and inhuman. ]
There aren't as many distractions around me... And besides.
[ She takes a large swig directly from her gourd this time with her free hand. Exhaling deeply, she smiles at Stephen, a fresh drunken flush flooding her cheeks. ]
Fighting for your life, inebriated and outwitting your opponent is its own kind of fun you know?
So think fast.
[ And thus she disappears into her spirit form. Looks like she's doing what she wants but on a more deadly level now. ]
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Fine.
[There’s a punctuation to that word, a concession that goes out of its way to sound beleaguered. A second later, and Stephen’s on his feet. A second later, blink and you’ve probably missed it, he’s in his sorcerer’s garb, his cloak a bright streak of red even in the blueish night, which might have something to do with the levitation moments before.
Shuten is nowhere to be seen just yet, but his senses are keen, and already there’s a hint of magic at his fingertips, aglow in the dark.]
Who is outwitting who?
[Excuse you, but he can take that as a challenge.]
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This current Shuten Douji, the Assassin-class Servant wants this deadly dance because this Master had more potential to go toe-to-toe with her. It's new, it's intriguing, and it'll stave off her inner lull. There's also something about Stephen Strange's determined blue eyes when faced with danger, that makes her want to take a closer and intimate look. ]
Hi there.
[ Her luscious drunken voice sounds like it's right next to his ear before the oni appears above of him to deliver a drop kick. ]
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Hi.
[Cheeky. Stephen pushes forward, the shield following suit. He intends to send her flying back, and with any success, conjure up a portal for her to fall into mid-flight.
Where it leads? No one knows, she’ll just have to find out.]
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When Stephen pushes back with his magic shield, Shuten hums and uses both of her feet to spring off the surface and land only a few feet away from him.
Let's see if she can get him drunk. A sake dish appears in one hand already full of the glowing rainbow-colored liquid. While she creates some more distance between them Shuten holds it out in front of her tipping the vessel lightly until one drop hits the ground.
And that drop transforms into a tidal wave that rushes towards the sorcerer. Is it enough to melt him down? No, but it's thick and sickeningly sweet, and lesser men than Stephen would probably keel over like he's seen before. ]
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Not that it makes this any less worrisome, of course. He’s never had that saccharine sweet drink literally attempt to flood his senses, and Stephen flings up another magical shield to block the tide hurtling his way. It slams against his magic, then sweeps along the sides, the only place it’s given clearance. Enough to stall the immediate effect, but not enough to stop it from completely sloshing at his soles, thickening the air with a drunken sweetness that already has him feeling dizzy.
He knows better than to linger, and so he doesn’t. Stephen leaps up into the air and hovers swiftly above Shuten’s head with the help of his cloak, conjuring up a whip with magic. He flings it at her, aiming to wrap around the hand balancing her vessel.]
Enough. You can’t do that up here.
[hello they’re on a castle?]
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Shuten isn't totally upset; you don't live as long as she did if you linger on every imperfect move. ]
Trying to bind me already, huh? Bold man. I like it.
[ Instead, she's going to put her monstrous strength to good use by using her other hand to yank on the chain to pull him out of the air and towards her. ]
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Not as planned, clearly, but often he’s had to adjust his plans accordingly — the sorcerer doesn’t bother trying to change his trajectory, instead allowing physics to play its role. His mass is yanked straight into her, which he plans to use much like a ball clattering into another on a pool table. And the corner pocket just happens to be yet another portal opening up right behind them both — they can both take the plunge this time, unless she’s fast enough to redirect them both.]
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[ Shuten has pulled Stephen so that he's a few inches away from her. The energy she has grasped makes her fingers tingle and up close, the sorcerer can see her lighthearted expression. And that's the thing, isn't it? She's having fun making him fight for his life and seeing him struggle. What a troublesome familiar Shuten Douji is, and that's putting it lightly.
Her ears perk up at the sound of the portal opening beneath them. The oni could have managed a redirection but... ]
Now, where does this lead us? I'd like to see what surprise you have for me in there.
[ With a delighted giggle, Shuten allows herself to drop downwards taking Stephen with her. ]
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Shuten might recognize this dimension as one used to keep a certain Asgardian trickster god busy, but that’s neither here nor there.
Stephen plummets right beside her, the swell of his cloak fluttering behind in a red swath. He looks nonplussed, almost comfortably assured.]
Shuten… Tell me something. Does an oni have a third eye?
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An interesting question, Sweetie. Some onis have literal third eyes, but aside from that...
[ Falling is a different sensation from getting drunk. It's not entirely unpleasant, but she gets the feeling that he's trying to resolve this without any major injuries for either of them. ]
Trying to end this in a stalemate, are you? No third eye on my pretty person here, but I have some foresight when it comes to these little bouts.