First ImpressionAlthough normally focusing on his work as a supporter he occasionally still helped out around the shop; which is where he found himself when not dungeon delving or taking up quests here and there. Today was no different, except things were slow. Eyes wandering about the shop he'd stand behind the counter playing with the bell. Ding, ding, ding.... His infuriated and now agitated father would arch a brow and cough some, the bell still ringing as Damion appeared zoned out before all at once his father slammed the blade he was working with int a bucket of water and frantically wrote on paper. With each passing Ding of the bell, the male twitched some as he finished the writing before slapping his son upside the head bringing him out of his dazed state. "Huh?" He'd say as his father handed him the list. Moments later he'd be listening as he explained that he needed him to do him a favor and go fetch some raw materials he needed to continue his work. Nodding in agreement he'd soon take his leave of their small shop and make his way further into town. His father sighing relieved before up his hammer to brutally murder the bell, before tossing it against a wall and returning to his work; peace and quiet at last. Running some he'd grin jumping over benches, scaling walls, running along the roofs of businesses and jumping into an alley way. Making his way out he'd soon find himself reaching the center of the district. His eyes would gander about some scanning over his exact location before a smile crept across his face. He stood a tall 6'1 well build and rather adonis like. A warm smile crossing his lips as he waved hello to passing females, the giddy and adorable giggles passing as he walked off. He wasn't the most well-known person. But among the shop keeper here he was a familiar face; although not because of his mighty feat as an adventurer. Most of which was simply being his appearance, handsome, the kind of face that was hard to forget, the other being his pure size. Large and burly; built like an ox and always carrying that same blade. In the three years since he became a supporter of those in the dungeons, he hadn't changed much. He might have gotten somewhat stronger but compared to most adventurers he was normal. This in part might have done with the lack of a god or goddess in his life. Most adventurers had been granted their favor by now and had their true potentials unlocked. He, however, had not. He'd wanted to find the right god or goddess for his devotion. As such he'd spent a great deal of time thinking on the matter. He had heard tales of foolish adventurers, shifting gods and in having to face their wrath, as one who both feared and respected gods to some degree he wanted his choice to be final. Yet so far he had not even met a god or goddess as such he'd often keep an eye out for such things. Maybe one day if he was lucky he'd be graced by their honor, but for now, this lowly blacksmith's son would just have to keep trying, to grow stronger and do his best Now, walking among the crowd in search of materials off the list his father had written. Found himself gazing upon a few booth with wares he needed, yet most of them felt shoddy and overpriced. Being a stickler and a bit greedy he knew the difference in worth and value; what seemed nice to most he could easily differentiate between something worthy of his purchase or not. He based most of his decessions on touch, weight, and personal experience. Giving items value he deemed they were worth; often haggling. Lifting a piece of metal ore and gazing upon it, then shift to his list before turning to the vender. Arching a brow he'd inquire about the material in question. First, he'd ask how many they had, then their asking price. Lips curling at the answer he'd place it back down and laugh some. "You're asking that much for junk ore, are you a fool or a scam artist, look clearly it looks large and holds some weight but look at the impurity. The consistency of the stone itself. If I crack this open it will be filled with nothing, If you look closely at the holes there you can see through to the other side; if all your material is like this whoever sold you this crud scammed you good. But don't try and pass the buck to me. I use to mine this crap a few years back. Tell you what. You won't make nearly as much off this but let me buy all the one's you got I'll toss in a few extra coin for some reasonable ones and even give you the name of the mine I use to work; we wouldn't dream of selling you crap like this, especially at this cost." He'd say as the two worked out a deal and he wrote off the items listed getting twice the amount requested at half the cost. That about working out the cruddy quality. In all honesty, he could give his father the worst quality imaginable and he'd still turn it to gold. None the less the male would put the materials away in his carrying pack and continue his search before bumping into another. "Huh?" He'd say looking upon the female before arching a brow, and giving a confused look at the scolding he was receiving. "Who the hell are you and why should I watch where I'm going? You do know it's a two-way street your just as much to blame as I am. None the less, my apologies for bumping into you; I'm man enough to take my portion of this incident. Are you okay?" He'd say boldly fully unaware of who they were or their social status. The male simply felt strongly about the issue at hand. Yet his caring nature would also show itself some as he continued. "None the less, my apologies for bumping into you; I'm man enough to take my portion of this incident. Are you okay?" He'd say with a warm smile before attempting to ruffle their hair as he lowered himself to eye level some given his height as to show some respect instead of looking down on them. @Hades
Hades had spent her day as relaxed as usual, rolling the roulette wheel at her casino, letting the ball roll around the numbers one by one casually until landing in the duvet it was meant to. It was a calming activity for Hades to roll the dice or spin the wheel for someone else, after all, every click of the wheel or every bump of the dice was familiar to her, she could count with precision and analyze each click and bump to find where they would land. Thinking back, it initially started with studying the simple flip of a coin, then grew into something so unreasonable as she learned more about these unique games. All that mattered to her was earning coin, but it eventually came to studying how to earn with efficiency. Nostalgia was delightful for her, but she couldn't dwell on it too much feeling the touch of one of her workers at her arm. Her gaze slid to the serving woman's direction, the bunny suit she wore made more amusing by the fact that it was a Hume bunny dressed as such, she tried to discuss a problem with requisitions for her latest project which earned a silent sigh from Hades in reply. It wasn't as if requisitions was doing a poor job managing orders, there was simply too much to file, and it was only natural some things would slip through the cracks after growing tired or bothered. Rather then telling the girl how to handle it and instruct her though, Hades lifted a hand to her head idly giving the girl a pet as if she were an animal. "I'll handle it myself. I don't want another accident." She explained, an order from the quarry was a tall task after all, if it were off or there were another error, it wouldn't be something she could write off any more. Stepping out from the casino, giving the statue out front a small pet, it began to follow her slowly, the large black dog having been standing still for quite a long while watching people coming and going, protecting the entrance, but with Hades leaving, it turned to follow along with her as a steadfast guardian. The creature was something that had accompanied her for a long time, though here in this place it was just an anonymous dog, it was rather famous among those in her pantheon, even if it wasn't the most favorite guard dog she had to post up somewhere. With protection acquired though, she began to head out, steadily, her gait even, her posture pristine, she carried herself well and moved through the streets to look for the trade Districts. Where she went, people often parted for her, Hades had been a god in this world for 10 years, there were few who would arbitrarily step into her path without purpose, it was something she hadn't had to deal with for a long time. That was, up until Damion stepped into her path thrusting her back a step onto her hind end. Sitting for a short while Hades wasn't exactly sure why she was bumped into but others were quick to demand an apology from the man, a peanut gallery formed quickly as it usually did when Hades was involved in something. She was the one who ran the local Casino after all, people were quick to support her thinking their debts could be a bit more lax or time could be bought with kindness. Hades slowly rose back to her feet, her skin was smooth and pale as carved white jade, the ivory luster of her appearance was bright like a full moon. The black of her hair like silk reflected a sheen as she rose to be only an inch shorter then Damion, her height was simply one of a few things that tended to intimidate others. The other however, Damion might notice quickly after she stood. Hades had a face that was unnaturally stoic, as if she were wearing a mask, the only real indicator that it wasn't fake was from the movement of her eyes and the occasional movement of her jaw. There was a blankness in her face, and an emptiness in her eyes that was easy to get lost in. "Every grievance has it's perpetrator, and every Debt has it's collector; There is no enmity between us, there is no reason or advantage to making this into something larger then a simple accident." She spoke, her tone monotonous and lifeless, so much so it might be jarring when she spoke. Though she said it was no big deal, there was an iciness in her actions, frigidity and apathy in her approach to having that silky hair ruffled, as if she didn't recognize what had happened, as if nothing had been done in the first place. When he took his hand away, her hair would settle as it had before, perfectly, unmessed or roused. "I will ask you to refrain from that though-- There is a mortal who follows me often and likes to cause trouble for people who touch me arbitrarily. I would feel bad if she started trouble with you over something like this." She explained once more, her blank and icy tone was indifferent and apathetic to it, as if she didn't really care or wouldn't really feel bad, but was instead simply offering neutral advice since it was in everyone's best interest.
First ImpressionA brow would arch as the male folded his arms over his chest listening to her, then followed up with the hair ruffling as he then gave her a rather confused look. Who the hell was this being, she was so...boring, yet everyone seemed afraid of her and most folks demand he respect her. Unaware he'd shrug some and rub the back of his head. "Well I have no idea who you are, but that's probably more my fault than naught, usually is the man to speak up first. Anyways the names Damion DeAndre...although I probably should know who you are I don't so mind sharing whatever secret might be going on here. Since everyone and their mother seems to be shaking in their boots. Who are you some big shot adventurer?" He asked shifting his gaze about trying to see who this person she might have referenced was. Her voice a bit bland and her ability to keep his attention lacking he'd shift his gaze back to her as someone shouted her name and scolded him. "You a god?" He'd laugh some and note her dog, "Let me guess that pooch there is the infamous cerberus right, well it looks like he is two heads short and you an entire gender different than I'd recall hearing in stories. I'm not a betting man, so if these fools seem to think that is who you are it must have some truth; no? That or your one hell of a scam artist." None the less the arrogant male would look at the female now she stood once more, she was taller than he anticipated when he first saw her, then again she was on the ground. Sighing the male would place his arms behind his head some curious as he looked at the figure before him. He heard that the gods had fallen to earth, never meeting or seeing one as he kept to himself so this was his first encounter. Although she was rather beautiful she looked sickly, perhaps dead. A fitting look to one who just might be the one known as Hades. Lips parting he'd ask a question curiously "If your one of the big shot gods why are you out among the lowly common folks, should someone in your familia be out and doing some of this work, wouldn't that be more cost efficent. I mean, legends told of hades being one hell of a manager; espcially with the souls of others. So I can't imagine this being for fun, perhaps you didn't have any familia available. No..." He placed a hand on his chin and tapped it some, his mind deep in thought questioning the validity behind whether they were truly a god or if they were some false shepard stringing along some foolish sheep behind them. Eitherway, the power the exhibited in the people who feared her seemed to be right up his alley. He desire Power, money and fame To indulge himself in the finner life and become a famous adventurer. Thus to do this he'd need to take a cautious approach in case they were a goddess. "Tell you what, lets say I believe you're hades. I heard gods bring in adventurers into their family, perhaps you'd care to tell me about yourself. The things legends didn't mess up on. The sort of stuff I should know about should I take interest in joining your familia." He'd say being awfully forwards yet not implying he was going to join or anything. The male heard about the wrath of a god and didn't much care for the idea of facing it. So he figured he'd meet a few gods and inquire about them then decide who met his needs best. A faint smile passing his face as he waited to hear a bit about hades.
Hades simply waited for the crowd to inform Damion of her identity, she wasn't in a particular hurry to introduce herself after all since everyone was so willing to do it for her. Though his assumption about the black dog by her side was perhaps natural, though it wasn't Cerberus, even if it had been, having three heads and wandering around the town would no doubt cause a commotion in this mortal world, she didn't want to resort to something like that. Though having such a beast wasn't exactly a good indicator regardless, there was a bard running around town with creatures of legend who was a supporter even. It made that sort of guessing game a little more difficult, though that bard fortunately didn't try to play any games and claim godhood, Hades turned her gaze on the man for a moment as if considering his words briefly before giving a slow shake of her head. "This is Shuck, I suppose you could call him a child. I would not have Orthrus or Cerberus accompany me on such a bland errand. One watches the casino, while the other is with Persephone." Hades explained blankly as if it were no big deal, while Cerberus and Orthrus did work at her casino, few would likely recognize them posted up at the front door where Shuck had come from. Unlike the others, Shuck was a lot less noticeable which is why she often chooses him, a small and ordinary seeming dog that's simply bigger then normal is easier to explain and blend. Though the dog would occasionally flash toothy grins at strangers or people who passed by, the malevolent creature of myth was one that was best when causing harm or hurting people, though Hades wouldn't allow it that far from her sight. "As for my gender-- You mortals are so hung up on your ages and genders and orientations. I'm not the only one who's donned a more interesting skin for this world. I simply felt I would be more warmly received in one that was more appealing rather then being a hostile aged man." She explained with a lean of her head. For the party the Gods and Mortals celebrated with Osiris after all, She'd gone as her usual male self, but outside of those costumed occasions, people received her more warmly in a feminine facade. Hades was never really capable of empathy or deep emotions in a lot of ways after all, when empathizing with people to gather others was impossible, it was better to take the shape of something that would attract others instead. To some extent it was working, people were drawn to her casino to chat with her from time to time, but not for the reason she'd wanted, which was gathering familia members. "I'm not very good at speaking, or appearing interesting. Socializing is also not my strong point; therefore, I thought if I cannot change the inside, changing the outside would make it easier to become a part of my familia." Though the question about why her familia wasn't going out to deal with things was likely obvious, outside of business relationships, her familia was only a single person, beyond that there were only workers who had made 'contracts' for a life extension. These unfortunately were not the same thing, though that said, she could perhaps have sent someone else out to deal with the issue with the quarry, but repeated failures would become costly, after the first one it became apparent that this job was too difficult for your average worker. "My familia is unfortunately small, as much effort as I put into looking appealing, I cannot change the core of the problem which is my outlook and personality." She spoke gesturing to herself blankly, her monotonous voice perhaps making the explanation a little draining, but she made an effort to be appealing even if she was stoic while doing so. "While I have plenty who work for me under 'contract' they are less qualified leaving me in a predicament. Handle the issue with the stone quarry myself, or risk more monetary loses from over aggressive hagglers. My time is worthless compared to monetary loses." She explained knowing that she had all of the time in the world, she was a deity who was timeless, so having it wasted while frustrating could be worthwhile for the right price. Though his question about hearing about her made her brow perk, perhaps the first actual facial expression her stoic demeanor showed up til this point, but after her gaze listed briefly as if considering what to say, she finally answered in a blank tone. "There are a great many things that are both right and wrong; I am Hades-- Though I've also been called 'Pluto'. Many take me for a God of the Underworld, but I am a God of wealth and Harvest as well. My management skills originate from dealing with the dead, coin and bribe is a part of the job, and you must understand every single person who arrives at my doorstep hopes to buy more time some way or another. Now here on the surface, nothing has really changed in that regard." She spoke with an idle shrug, as if it didn't really bother her, it was all business no matter where it took place, though being approached by mortals who recognized her was new for the first couple of years she'd been here. "Everything has a price after all, buying time for yourself, time for a loved one, fame or fortune, power and prospects, status and heritage, I've offered these to a lot of people, but unfortunately gain sometimes is not adequate enough of a reason to join a familia. People want familiarity or companionship that I am not capable of offering in the same ways. A shame, but so long as there is demand, I will have supply." She explained with an idle sigh.
First ImpressionListening he'd chuckle here and there as he tried to focus, her monotone-like voice dulling his senses in lulling him into a sense of slumber as he rubbed the back of his head. Plucking a hair to wake from the devilish female before him. Some of her points valid, although still doubtful he'd play along as he looked at the dog in disbelief, but he'd humor her a bit longer as he at least pretended to pay attention his mind wondering some as she explained he was a male, but took this more pleasing look. He'd arch a brow and question the logic behind it. If a god could change their looks, why did all gods not make themselves out to be beautiful and perfect?To make themselves out to be the burning desire in the heart of men who would gladly fight wars in their name and... It was at that moment he realized that this was indeed making more sense than it should. Raising a hand to speak he'd lower it and simply listening as he spoke more about the inquiries he had. If this was all about a lack of faith in others then how could she ever expect someone to join her familia. But instead of criticizing, he'd listen to her logic. As she spoke more and more it was clear she was all about the business, trading, exchanges. Debts, collecting and all of that good stuff. His inner greed appealing to this he'd part his lips to mutter Interesting. But beyond that, he remained quite. Yet as she finished speaking he'd place both hands behind his head as he stood there silent for a moment before finally speaking about some of the subjects. "So you guard dogs are home and this pooch is a substitute? Fine, I'll buy it, this dogs a bit larger than most anyways and if he's a pup of one of those legendary beings I can see it. So the great lord of the underworld is as lifeless and dull as the souls they are forced to trap. That explains a lot, although to be fair I couldn't think of much reason to be cheerful when all your reminded of is being a god of death and people trying their best to avoid your company; even so much as to make deals and stay out of your domain as long as possible. Yet you aren't as sinful nor lust-worthy as I envisioned a goddess to be, er god? Not sure which you'd prefer since you go either way." He'd laugh some before folding his arms now and leaning on a wall they were near he'd arch a brow parting his lips once more to talk some. "So tell me. How does one such as yourself who is such a talented business person? Go about all their time without amassing a fortune larger than just your casino. Also, the tales told of you loving Persephone, how could. I mean don't get me wrong I know how, at least in your male body. But how does that work for someone so...stoic?" he'd ask bluntly as he scratched at the side of his head some messing with his temple. "Do you actually, have emotions or did those die off long ago. I'd assume you must feel things, maybe just not good at showing it. But then, what does an immortal do, now they are stuck with mortals. Do you formulate games to entertain yourselves, why bother paying for or following our rules. What is to stop you gods from destroying all of humanity? Do you all fear the idea of being alone, no longer having worshipers or folks to praise you for what you do? I'd imagine the life is both boring and frustrating. None the less you had my curiosity, but now you have attention. You speak of your familia being so small, what possible gains can you offer to help those join that other gods can't? I mean, aside from a place to perhaps crash you obviously haven't attracted much attention, but something tells me that is also intentional." He'd say folding his arms before leaning up and walking around her; most of the crowd scurrying off in fear. "No, you seem to involved in your business to play house with the living, you see more about continuing to do things the way they have been done. If It ain't broke don't try and fix it. Keep inflow solid, losing money isn't an option. So tell me, do you gods make deals with one another, why not offer extensions out for other gods to make more money off their foolish adventure add in clauses which make it null in void if they do something of sorts that warrants breaking the contract, why not try to appeal to us humans on a much deeper level. You already know we are all naturally greedy, lustful, prideful, lazy, envious. I mean could you offer me a chance to unlock my potential and raise to the level of godhood. To become not only rich but powerful, ca you appeal to my deepest desires, to indulge selflessly in that of which I desire most, not just of splendor but flesh...you say you're a business person but you are playing by the rules. This confuses me, if you're a god why not act like one. That isn't to say I want to face your wrath, but I just can't make sense of and doubt the validity of some of you gods; it's like your persona and mindsets have changed. I remember tales of the gods fighting one another yet all that remains is peace. Are you not excited to be out of that prison like underworld? To walk among the living to have more control, more influence bargains to make and deals. Do you not simply love the taste of fresh fruit o longer corrupted by the touch of death that was the underworld; the sun upon such beautiful glowing skin." Throwing his hands up he'd crouch down as if to lose his mind scratching at his head just unsure of how any of this made sense, the more he thought the more didn't believe her. Rising once more to his feet standing he'd look at her arms folded once more almost as if to wait for an explanation as to all his questions and desire to know what she could do? She had truly captivated him; beyond her beauty. She was an enigma, a puzzle he wanted to solve. The first god he met that was just so..confusing and frustrating. His entire world and envisionment of a god or goddess were now questioned and his world turned on its head, he needed some sort of explanation as such he'd wait for just that.
Hades only gave a vague shrug in response, whether she was considered a goddess or god was unimportant, either way the title meant the same thing, gender again mattered little to beings that weren't necessarily ethereal to begin with. Many gods wore these human skins like a costume or dress after all, to Hades it was little different from a unique suit. The talk of not being as sinful or lustful as one might imagine though caused Hades to drop her gaze down on herself briefly. Soft and inviting hands rose to her own chest giving it a brief squeeze causing the plush and supple skin of her clothes to press together in her top deepening her cleavage briefly before she let it go. "Is that so?... I'd thought that I'd gotten the proportions well. Persephone believed it to be quite an accurate rendition of a beautiful woman. I'd thought it had gone rather well after we both came to this conclusion." Hades explained clearly she'd discussed this with her significant other, but couldn't see quite what Damion was trying to point out or what flaw he felt there was. As if her icy and blank demeanor was non-existent, she didn't seem to follow or understand. Though when he began asking her about why she wasn't wealthier, that was largely the cause for her current headaches with the quarry at the moment. She had quite a bit of wealth, but it was tied up in the construction of a rather grandiose Colosseum. While the returns were immaculate and the potential was infinite, those benefits couldn't be achieved until it's construction and it began operation. Until that point, it would just be a bottomless pit that she was forced to throw money into. "I have a variety of projects in the work. I've only had ten years to grow something from nothing." Hades explained blankly once more, after all she came into this world without even a stone coin let alone a gold piece, and managed to make a casino from contracts while minimizing her losses. Though talk of Persephone caused Hades' brow to deepen. Persephone's interest in her was often a touche subject. "It is simple-- I wanted her, so I took her. She did not want to stay-- I made her stay. Initially she didn't approve, but there was little choice when she cannot avoid spending time with me." Hades explained blankly, after all, their relationship started by force and eventually blossomed into something a little more real. The talk about emotions though caused Hades to bring her delicate fingertips to her own cheeks briefly as she began to explain. "I feel feelings just fine... Though I remain rather detached, it's not as if I don't feel joy for the success of those who work for me, or cannot understand the grieving that come with loss. I, have never been able to properly animate myself to convey these things however. I've spent far too much time alone-- far far too much time in the dark. Though Persephone does well to light up my life, even then her mother will steal her back when spring rolls around. It is a lack of practice." She explained pushing her cheeks up into a smile that was clearly visibly forced. But when she relaxed once more, it drowned under the indifference and apathy as a great deal of her feeling did. Though when he asked about the gods and their fears, Hades only glanced briefly to the sky in the distance as she spoke. "We all have rules we must live by, whether we are deities or whether we wear these mortal suits, even you mortals have rules you cannot avoid. It is because we follow these rules that we can remain here among you." She answered, though it was vague, she didn't want to give away the rules and conditions after all, that would simply be stupid, she tried to give just enough to give him an idea, and left the rest to be a mystery. Though when the man crouched in confusion confessing his lack of understanding, Hades cracked her first smile of the day. It was very small, subtle, easy to miss even, but it was the most genuine change she could generally muster without some greater cataclysmic push. Reaching a hand out, she touched Damion's head briefly giving it an idle pat as if trying to comfort a lost child or a whining animal as she began to speak. "I am a God of Wealth, as such, I have an innate understanding; there is nothing that does not have value-- Nothing that cannot be bought. Your desires for fame, flesh, adventure, prestige and power all come with a price." Hades spoke lifting her hands idly as if they were scales for weighing, tipping from one side to the other as she continued. "We are not exceptions to this rule. Our power, our prestige and our identity all comes with a price... As do our mortal forms." She spoke tipping her hands from one side to the other, a gesture that may or may not make sense. "I offer a lot of things, and I do so for a variety of prices. Some would sooner pay with coin, lives, or resources rather then loyalty, it is for this reason my familia remains small. Because I care little with what you pay me-- Provided the price is right."
First ImpressionListening he'd chuckle responding to her disappointed tone in regards to her proportions. "No, they are in all the right ways and done quite well. Although I favor a woman's backside more than her front, less back problems for her that way, I mean I am already going to be a pain in the ass anyways. No sense of making it worse for her with my nonsense and the physical labor of carrying around such mountainous pillows. Although I won't lie, for a goddess such as yourself I'm sure I don't need to tell you the difficulties and attention that come with them. But I'm glad that Persephone is pleased with them. I would be too if they were mine." He'd say a bit flustered and clearing his throat, avoiding the obvious blush. The words ofPersephone'ss arrangements making him blush further, the idea of force and hades simply taking what she wanted made his body shiver with excitement making the moment a bit awkward for him with the sudden blush and silence. "Yes well, that sort of excitement and taking what you want aside. It's good to see such business practices in regards to money isn't lost now your stuck with us mortals. What real benefits do you see yourself able to grant or do for someone like me, just take a gander, analyse and please tell me if I'd make a good familia member to your family. I plan to seek out other gods before making a final decesion but I do not want to join a family where the god or goddess sees no potential use or desire for me. Not that I'd want you to desire me, your spoken for but then again with your sort of take what you want attitude I'd doubt I could object even if so." He'd say playfully hoping she might gaze upon the amounts of untouched and unused hidde potential; compare to most who already had established contracts. Yet when she spoke of emotions he'd arch a brow, "So a band aid on a heart since lost in the depths of sorrow cast aside in favor of another the sibling known as zeus huh? Well, to be fair I haven't really bothered with him. So consider yourself the luck of the two this time around. Besides, I don't think he likes me much. Some joke that I'm his son one of the many bastards he fathers with women he lusts after. But I think folks are only teasing me due to some pretty herculean-like strength in comparison to most men. I mean I use to work the mines as a boy doing the work of ten men, by the time I was an adult I had my own shaft I worked alone pulling out and doing what an entire crew did alone. Hell, most of the folks who take me in dungeons do so for that reason, the perfect pack mule. Not to mention my strength when angered and trying to protect the ones I love..." He'd say bragging partially but almost as if to ask if she knew about any of the children Zeus may have had. "I honestly would like to one day become a god, if not surpass you all some. I know bold to say and foolish but I feel like with all the challenges in my life this is just another one to meet. Imagine that silly idea, a mortal surpassing a god. What's next I do combat with one and walk away alive. The thought.But I don't think that is against the rules you speak of is it, if so then I guess I'll just have to rewrite them." He'd say mockingly as he seemed to tempt fate; not knowing they'd grant such a joke weaving it into his tapestry as the wheel of fate spun and his tale was to unfold faster. If anyone knew this best it would be hades the lord of the underworld herself. Yet as she spoke hed smile some and part his lips. "Just what might be this cost I'd pay to reach such goals, you know what it is I desire, what I yearn for but do you possess the powers to do so?" He'd tease looking up to her before moving a bit closer and gazing into her eyes. "If the price is pain, that would be my pleasure, if the price is loss then I wil not know it as I have never had anything to begin with. If the price is my innocene, well that ever exist to begin with. If the price is my life, then it's just an early death. Tell me, so long as it isn't something as silly as a kiss what is the price? At what cost is it, that might sway me to make you my goddess and tend to any desire or whim you have? What price must I pay to defy the very existent and order put into place to reach the levels of a god if not beyond? Be it my body, my soul, m seed. what is it I must do to ascend, that is my question I have for you. I wish for powers far greater than just what man strives I wish to become the embodiment of all gods and become a protector of any who are worth my loyalty, my vigor. Now tell me is that a smile I see creeping at such reckless desire for something more than your use to, interest, perhaps. Have I awoken an energy in you, an emotion you've long since forgotten, if this is what it takes to entertain you are you not amused. Tell me what do you see. Am I a fool or a desired member of your family. Due keep in mind your only the irst of many gods I've come across. Before I can pledge true loyalty I must also walk into the fields of temptation, I am a man of honor and to some degree, I could never harm nor invoke the wrath of a god. let along one with such a history as you. No, I'd rather feel such a wrath in your bed as our loins intertwined, using me as a band aid for when your lover is away...if I am to be loyal, I'd never leave you not even for mother." He'd say teasingly with a smile, a hand raising in attempt to caress her cheek. A switch turned on the male almost as if the conversation had got him going. Power hungry, greedy, self-indulgence kicking in thanks to desire, and the closeness the interest in her thoughts and what she could see. @Hades
Hades gave a vague nod of understanding, the talk of butts being important caused the Goddess to reach back for her own giving it a soft pat and squeeze with her hands. The softness she sank her fingers into was a clear indicator, but at the same time, she hung her head to one side as if trying to gauge it's value or proportion as well. "Hm, I should ask Persephone about this one as well then... I'm sure she would also have an opinion. Perhaps next winter..." Hades mused, the winter time after all was the season when they spent the most time together, there was no need to rush off to the underworld to check up on her until then since she would be stolen away by her mother until the snows fell. "Changing a little shouldn't be too hard." The Goddess mused knowing that her physical appearance was perhaps the thing that won most over since her dazzling personality was practically non-existent. Though his interest in the method she used to force Persephone wasn't unusual, after all, few found Hades' methods of acquiring a partner strange. Of all the gods of her pantheon her story of using force and lies to trick and steal someone away from their mother was the most well known. This fact didn't faze Hades though, if there was something she wanted, she would use means to acquire it if it was that valuable to her, why mince words and try to sugar coat anything. Though the talk about her emotions being from sour feelings of being cast aside or out by Zeus made her chuckle, this was what passed for myth and legend among the mortals these days? Few of them remembered the truth it seemed as Hades shook her head back trying to correct him. "You mistake me for our other brother. Of the three of us, the only two to fight for the heavens were Zeus and Poseidon. I was content with the underworld-- Why wouldn't I be? It's the best place to acquire wealth and bribe money even if it is the most tedious, I've long since streamlined the process for ease of use." She explained, it was the reason why Zeus lorded over Poseidon as the god of the skies while the other was the god of earth and seas, one pushed the other out. Hades on the other hand started in the under world and didn't care for another role. Though the prospect of being a god or divine child wasn't unheard of, there were visits to the mortal side and a variety of other situations in which such a thing occurred in the past after all. There were even stories of mortals or other magical races ascending to godhood, why not a mortal? It was something Hades wouldn't discount or discredit. "Its not as if it's unheard of to have a mortal child-- Persephone's not had one though, I'm rather detached from the others as well so I can't say, I've not really heard of any in this era." Hades said with a musing gaze that listed into the distance as if trying to remember. She couldn't however place any faces or names. Perhaps if she was back in the underworld at tartarus's heart she'd be able to scan through her various slips and catalogs to find one or two, but that wasn't a trip she would make so arbitrarily particularly after entrusting everything to her consort. The talk of rising up to a god's level though wasn't unheard of either, instead she shook her head as if she'd heard such an inane dream already. "You are not the first to have such goals, even in this generation you aren't the only one either. There is another who is similar to you who is just as bizarre in their desires to ascend to godhood to change the rules of this world and protect people. Though he doesn't fancy himself a hero-- no, the air about him is more akin to a monster, but he believes his goal is noble as I'm sure you do. I can tell you the same thing I told him however-- that 'power' is not necessarily the means of acquiring 'destiny' or 'fate'. Those who would claim it is I can only tell you are liars or coaxers. Despite that child's efforts to ascend to godhood with 'powerful punches' it will be something that can't be acquired with muscle mass or dealings alone. 'Destiny' and 'Fate' must be found, whether nurtured through Karmic reaping or wrested away with force-- it all begins with 'insight' and 'fortune'." Hades explained with a hand gesture. Stepping forward, she lifted a hand to Damion's shoulder before rounding him slowly glancing him over with a stoic gaze as she continued speaking analyzing and processing as she spoke. "There are many methods, 'tools' or 'resources' that can help or will give you a chance at that sort of transition, however without one, the chances will be slim. If you're asking if I happen to have one... I do. However, I cannot give that so freely without wounding myself. No, instead, I would recommend looking for other tools or resources. What I can do is point you in the right direction or perhaps provide you with the names or images to recognize these tools, but handing them to you directly is a rule that I cannot break without consequence." She explained after coming full circle to stand in front of him once more, though her thoughts were racing quickly through different scenarios and options, she finally spoke up with a shake of her head. "In summation; you ask me what you have to 'pay' to achieve this dream. My answer is; Time. This is something that can only be achieved with time, time that we can arrange a deal to provide you more of, but time that is absolutely necessary. Beyond that, there is no hope, ascension is something that can only occur by metaphorically traversing a burning road; most people would either die from the fires, those that are stronger would die from old age." She tried to explain. Though when the man reached for her cheek, Hades would lift a hand to take his before it could reach. That touch might even be considered enjoyable, her hands were smooth and delicate to the touch, there was a gentle chill to them but one that was refreshing rather then harsh at times. If it simply ended with hand holding it would surely be something that could be remembered, but rather then trying to hold Damion's hand, Hades tried to wrap her fingers around a few of Damion's before suddenly jerking them back. Making an effort to bend his fingers back painfully, not enough to break them, but enough to lock them into a painful position that might make someone crumple as that once soft and delicate chilled hand became harsh and frigid as a frozen waste. "I smile because I am amused... It's not often that people approach me with a deal or contract that I cannot fulfill to completion. Naturally that does not mean I cannot supply the resources required to build such a destiny, I cannot simply hand the finish product over as you might expect." She spoke trying to twist his fingers back further as she spoke, her head turning up as she continued trying to think back about her small smile. "After all, it's not that I cannot feel emotions, I'm simply not as animated as you mortals or the others, it is a matter of lacking practice. Persephone has helped as the light of my life to some extent, but there is only so much she can do to support me in this endeavor." Her monotonous voice made it seem as if she forgot she was trying to inflict pain on Damion through his fingers as she continued. "Perhaps my initial explanation was not clear, what do you think?" She asked even as she was trying to twist his fingers.
First ImpressionListening to her explanation he'd get a fair sense of the point. There were certain rules and order that she couldn't overlook and she couldn't also just hand him his desire; must as to be expected the price would be time. Shaking his head he cared not about that but to some degree, it was still a nice piece of information. Nothing to turn a blind eye to nor to flat out ignore; time was a limited factor in what he had to do, However, the lack of any hard evidence to rumors and jokes he'd soon realize even some basic information would be costly. Lips curling to ask the following questions yielded more and more answers; some straight forward others a bit cryptic. Yet when she summarized her general thoughts he got the metaphorical vision of hell. A burning path either that consumed you or you learned to walk eternity. A faint smile passed as he continued forth with his actions. Yet it wasn't until the hand raised to the cheek that he'd been stopped, her hand meeting his to hold only briefly before he drop to his knee partially to prevent from flat out breaking it. A look of pain and pleasure plastered his face. Listening to her point and trying to understand what it was while being distracted by absolute bliss he'd groan a bit in pleasure as he began to breath heavy the more and more she twisted the darker his cheeks got. Yet as she tired to explain it to him he was lost; to far gone. his mind scattered as he tried to explain hoping she might understand his weird fetish, "Please...no more, if you continue any further I'll have to buy you dinner...I..." He'd soon go lip, a dumb look found upon his face as his eyes had rolled back and he fell to his knees some a strange glow upon his cheeks as he swallowed hard, "you....really know how to make a point, remind me to swing by the casino with some coin, perhaps buying a moment of your time as such." his eyes gleaming with delight he was still in the splendor that was his tipping point. He had no shame in the fact she made him fall to his knees and melt; a bit strange and humiliating it definitely only made it worse, "So cruel to make me look less of a man before a crowd; I think I love you." he'd tease some as he looked up mesmerized by her actions and happy with the results although most likely not her intentions. None the less he'd regather himself and rise to speak once more. "I apologize for such shameful behavior, I just...even gods must have their weakness. Clearly, you've found mine. I'd ask you not share this with the other gods. I fear is word spreads of my weakness I may find my road to such ascension not only difficult but far more pleasing then filled with hardships." He'd say some still determined on his goals. yet he'd still have somewhat of a playful nature on his comments. "So where do we go from here, do I take you to dinner perhaps join you on your quest to where ever it is your going, maybe walk you home. I feel obligated to pay you back to some degree for, your time and....generosity especially that which happened just moments ago" He'd say some blushing as he rubbed the back of his head and nibbled at his lip. Truth be told he'd hope that they could meet again even if just to discuss his goals. But he knew that she was a business woman so if he was too and he wasn't part of the familia he'd need to find some form of payment. Something he'd most likely have to discuss with her at a later date depending which way the tapestry was woven. Eyes shifting up he'd smile some and remain silent unsure of how she might have felt, disgusted, amused, annoyed. Perhaps the apology wasn't enough. Maybe she'd desire to keep him around longer if not to tease but to aide her in the trivial tasks. Perhaps a way to make up for any unfortunate or bad impressions. @Hades
Hades gave a vague shrug releasing his fingers the moment he dropped down and made such an unsightly appearance. It wasn't so much from being put off, her stoic demeanor wouldn't crack over something like that; instead it was moreso because what she'd endeavored to accomplish was completed. Drawing a clear line between those that attempt to touch her face or torso was something she'd had to do on numerous occasions, each time it started relatively harmless with the same pressure from bending back hands. If it persisted though, the wave of black dogs she kept would be the ones to chase people away. Since the first message was received clearly enough, she didn't need to have him removed. "The first time is usually always free-- The value is in the come back and repeat customers." She explained when he mentioned he'd have to buy her dinner, such a thing was cheap and easy to sample after all, there was no need to be stingy with introductions. loyal consumers and customers however were more important. Though the talk about being made to look like less of a man, Hades' expression was as blank as ever as she spoke with a casual hand gesture as if it were no big deal. "If the quality of manhood amounts to only this much, then; rather then becoming a god, becoming a woman seems to be a more fitting destiny at this point." She mused, though her attempts at a joke were much more insulting with her blank and monotonous voice that seemed to treat her jest as a fact. The topic of love though again made Hades wave off the gesture and sentiment as if it were smoke from a cigar stinking up the air around her. "Should I take another consort in the future, they would not know me in this form, much like a suit, it would come off when I spend time with them. I recommend you put some thought into that before endeavoring to love me." She explained knowing that her current appearance was largely superficial and useless like nice clothes, her true form, the muscular well groomed man with a villainous silhouette was the one that would greet her life companions. The talk of weakness was also something Hades was indifferent to, looking down at the man blankly as she explained holding a hand out in waiting. "Every grievance has it's perpetrator, and every debt has it's collector. Though there's no enmity between us, even information comes with a price, as does secrecy. Until I am paid for silence, I can be paid for information." She explained, in wait to see if the man wanted to protect this weakness enough to pay her to keep it off of the list of information she could sell to others. Though when the prospect of him offering to repay her for earlier despite her comment that the first time should be free, she mused for a moment, with a monotonous note hummed. "My quest at this time is simple, paperwork-- Things I'd not trust to others anyway." She explained knowing that she wouldn't ask for an escort to something as simple as the quarry, not when she already had something to protect her in the form of the black dog at her side. Though it wasn't as if such a thing was useless or unusable to her, instead she simply gave a vague shrug. "You should come find me at the casino for work then, I still have jobs I need to do." She explained in passing thinking that the easiest thing for muscle to handle.
First Impression A faint smile passed as he listened to her explain things a bit more and that the first one was free, bowing some as if to thank her he'd chuckle a bit. It was quite entertaining, to say the least how she acted but this wasn't something he'd expect constantly and did have much to do in general; at least in terms of his life and meeting other gods. But her being his first of many was not something he'd forget. Listening to her joke a bit and tease about the manhood he'd shake his head and shrug. "I enjoy the bits and fun that comes with being a man, but the humility and abuse given with such actions turn me on. It's nothing beyond that.I am quite content being a man, although since you gods have that ability to shape shift or choose your vessels if I ever get curious I suppose it wouldn't matter. Although, to be fair isn't that what you did?" He'd tease some more as she went into great detail about her love life and preferences his hands waving he'd laugh more. She took his teasing to the extreme but then again; she seemed all business and very little play so it wasn't all that surprising none the less he'd listen to her further a wait til she was done to explain a bit more. "Although I may have been somewhat serious, I was not entirely, for the most part, I was just teasing and joking with you, but now that you mention it further I might pass. Nothing wrong with you, in particular, I just prefer this variation to a more masculine and male one. Perhaps I forget that beneath this tempting well-sculpted body and it's marvelous assets still, resides a man or one who prefers to take that form when involved with such themes. So I'll have to be frank, and pass on any more information." He'd wink some until he heard her go on about how the weaknesses of others are kept secure til the right coin as paid and he'd just laugh more. Arrogance, confidence. Either one truly worked as he shifted his gaze to her. "No, I am fine with that, the more who know the better; once they learn such a weakness can be exploited they'll try and may succeed but the only way to progress and work beyond it is to grow immune to it, not baby it but let it be known, fight against it and grow. I'd rather enjoy more folks trying to exploit this but that's just my self-indulging nature of pain and pleasure coming out. Honestly, eventually once I get use to it folks will try and be caught off guard and surprised when it's not what they though and it takes but one moment to end a life or retaliate hard. So what doesn't kill me will only make me stronger." As the two continued to converse even if just for a bit longer he'd nodded and understood what she meant even smiled a bit at her asking for help and for him to swing by. He could accept that, yet as he looked to the time he'd realized he'd been late and got caught up in their conversation for too long. "SHIT...Sorry to cut this short Lady Hades but I got to fly, my father is waiting on these good. But I'll take you up on that offer some time. Maybe I'll swing by the casino sometime soon. If not to gamble to grab some work?" He'd say before waving bye and taking off like a bat out of hell with his goods. The male showed potential, just as she showed promise, but how would things work out; what did fate have in store for them? Only time would tell. [Encounter Complete] @Hades
