"Another enjoyable dinner, Emiya-kun. Praise well deserved."
"I appreciate the blessing, Tohsaka. Enjoy the rest of your evening."
"I hope you have a pleasant rest, Rin. Exhaustion is the enemy."
"Oh, gladly, and to both of you as well," Ishtar nodded with an elegant smile as she turned down a separate corridor, leaving the two casually dressed servants to their stroll down another. The hovering goddess kept a straight path, letting all others move aside for her as thoughts swirled in her mind. Her flowing ivory dress with thin, spaghetti straps waved in the wind as she floated by, making many turn to gaze upon her. She acknowledged none openly, but knew the stares existed, for she was far too occupied in her plans.
They were the first ones she's had since her arrival nearly two months ago.
Though she had arrived with only discontent at her host body's many annoying issues, she had grown accustomed to it over time. It was still fairly cramped since a sense of tightness served as a lingering irritation, like an itch that couldn't be scratched. Most of her time was spent adapting to the peculiarities of her merging, and there were many indeed. Thankfully she didn't have to subdue an adamantly defiant and forceful personality upon fusion, but she definitely felt the effects of the host's personality. To be fair, most were easy to accept since they opened intriguing doors and acted as solid foundations.
Her friendship with Emiya and Arturia were the first of a few great friends thanks to her host's previous life. Though she had no concern for her before, and only found initial intrigue with the fragmented memories, she now appreciated Rin Tohsaka, but not as an equal. She was a goddess, and she was merely a grail-involved individual who matched her wavelength the best. There would always be that divide and distinction, and the reason she was in total control, but Ishtar appreciated Rin like a devoted follower who gifted her with countless offerings.
If it wasn't for Rin's previous connections, she's not too sure how much she would be enjoying this place. She shot a glare at a robot as it passed through her personal space.
True, she had arrived taking interest in Gudao's determined efforts. He had been fun to tease on arrival, but she found Gabrielle to be even more entertaining in that regard with her emotional swings. If Rin's connections had not been present, then the masters may have been her only close connections besides the other divine spirits. To be fair, her acquaintance with the other gods and goddesses was partially in hopes they would also spoil her; She loved being pampered and praised. It never came to that point, sadly.
As she floated down the empty, final hallway that led to her room, she smiled deviously.
It was thanks to her newfound friendships that her new, secret plan had hatched. No longer was she content to simply watch as humans and servants developed and interacted in their own ways. Though her cruel, manipulative, and mischievous urges had been suppressed greatly, she still carried the inklings to be directly influential in human affairs. The problem was finding one that was fitting, but thanks to Emiya and Arturia, she had found it upon their revelation of tomorrow's holiday at dinner weeks ago.
Unbeknownst to the couple, they sparked her imagination. Inspired by the idea concerning a day about love, Ishtar knew she had to be involved in this. She had secretly studied about the event in the library, and quickly found information she liked and detested. Though the holiday was great at its core, there were some adjustments that must be made. To Ishtar, they were going to be a breeze to remedy, for she was endeavored to ensure Valentine's Day would be a holiday Chaldea will never forget.
After all, what is a mere cherub with a toy bow when compared to a genuine Goddess of Love?
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Fragment 41: One of a Kind Blessing's'
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With a slow fade, a soft light illuminated the sleeping chamber befitting a goddess.
Dimmer light bulbs were gentler on the eyes, and basked the elegant furniture in a soft, golden hue. Most were not made in Chaldea, but acquired over various singularities she had been present. Carefully refined and chosen sets were made from rosewood with golden accents adorned her small home. Though it was a far cry from her former luxuries, the sofa set, cabinets, and vanity were quaint and admirable. They gave her everything she needed with a touch of flare.
Her belongings were all neatly organized, and everything was in a properly designated place. Nothing was allowed to ever look even the slightest bit misplaced. Everything from the ornate, round rug with golden designs to the picture arrangements hanging on the walls were all intricately calculated in a final design. Not a speck of dust was allowed, which forced a new protocol to be installed onto her hallway's cleaning robot to ensure it did a perfect job. For the goddess Ishtar, everything had to be her ideal vision of perfect.
"HOW!?" Ishtar's voice flared in her room like an explosion, but somehow didn't wake her neighbors up; Not that she cared if she did anyway.
Already, her perfect morning was off to a bad start. From her now upright position, with the gold embroidered covers hugging her naked form, she stared in total disbelief at her video intercom's screen. The heavy, warm blanket fell ever so slightly to leave her shoulders stranded in the cooler air, but she paid no heed. One eye twitched as her newfound glare levelled on the offending time. With a huff, she reached over to the nightstand, grabbed the clean set of black, lacy undergarments, and quickly disappeared beneath her oversized blanket. Thankfully she was really quick at changing into them.
Somehow, she failed to set the alarm right last night. Ishtar was awake an hour later than she wished.
Grumbling to herself about how she could let that happen, she stood up and walked to the door of her closet. After opening it, she pulled out a lovely, red off-shoulder dress. With grace that could be described as a mixture of irritation and gauche urgency, she swiftly slipped into her dress which revealed daring side slits that ended almost at her hips. Quickly coupling the absolutely figure-hugging dress with a white sash, she tied the bow at her waist and sped to her vanity.
After picking up the golden hairbrush, she began quickly undoing the knots in her hair. Though she often joked, during private breakfast get-togethers, about Arturia's occasionally messy hair in the mornings, the goddess would never be caught dead looking so inelegant. Still, with grumbles and offhanded curses, she tore through her own mop to straighten it. She would not be tying it in her tails today, nor would she do a bun. She was a Goddess of Love, Fertility, and Sex, among other things, and she would definitely present herself as one if she was going to feel better than Cupid.
As she worked her host's hair into a beautiful waterfall of locks, she glanced downward to make her irritation disappear. Her eyes landed on the many Craft Coins and mystic codes that lay on her rosewood vanity, in particular a special amulet. It was a unique gem given to her by Emiya during her first meeting with the couple, and he had explained the meaning behind the ruby treasure. It always brought a sense of fond nostalgia which soothed her, so she often used it as a form of control. A small smile donned on her lips as her brushing slowed down.
Eyes glanced over other items that brought a sense of satisfaction to her heart. Rin had many wonderful experiences based on the sheer number of items she could look upon, but also tragic ones. There was a sense of guilt and pride as she glanced over the coins portraying a formally-dressed man in a red suit with accompanying wine glass. The feeling only remained as she gazed upon another of a purple-haired young woman with matching eyes. Even a few coins of Rin herself were present. Her eyes returned to the mirror, leaving the many memories of Rin's family below.
She would not allow herself to feel sadness, for she would bring happiness to many unknowing people today.
As she smiled proudly at herself in the mirror, her face slowly fell. That confident expression only moments before slowly melted into an incredulous countenance. Her eyebrow twitched again, and she tried her best to withhold her sudden frustration. It failed terribly, as she quickly began taking off her sash and dress without recklessly tearing either. Wearing nothing but her suggestive, lacy panties and bra, she walked back over to the closet and placed the dress back on the hanger to avoid wrinkles, before moving to take off the undergarments.
In her rush, she forgot she wanted to take a shower, and apply Illya and Kuro's gifted perfume.
"Why does this happen to me!?" she roared in dismay, this time waking up a neighbor.
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Even if she was an hour behind schedule, there was no need to rush. There was over an hour before breakfast, and most of Chaldea was only just stirring. Silently, she glided down the hallway so her glossy red high heels barely skimmed the floor. Her nails had been painted pink perfectly, though she inspected them once more with a proud smile before returning her left hand onto her pink, heart-shaped purse. There was no need for any form of makeup, since Rin's face was already quite beautiful for a human, in her honest opinion. She still preferred her original body anyway, of course, especially around the chest area.
The employees didn't seem to care as she passed a lone one. With mouth agape, the brunette had slowed to a crawl and the look of lust filled his eyes. Her influential presence had that alluring flare, she'd gladly admit, but she imagined the dress only amplified it; Valentine's Day likely played its part. While she appreciated the open form of approval, and unhidden desire to worship her body in more ways than one, she would have preferred empty halls on her first task. Still, she could always appreciate an opportunity like this.
"If you're going to stare, at least sing my praises with more than your eyes," Ishtar teased with a chosen, tempting smile.
"Y-Yes, ma'am! Sorry!" the employee stuttered back, finding himself unable to tear his eyes away. Her soft giggles crippled him further as she turned down a separate corridor.
Though it wasn't as much fun as teasing the masters or her close friends, Ishtar still found it a fleeting form of entertainment. However, today she had different plans, and it didn't involve teasing of any sort. She floated in place as she reached the room in question. After carefully checking the hallway for any signs of activity, she smiled upon finding it silent. She had memorized the lock combination from observing an employee in spiritual form, and quickly began entering it into the keypad.
Honestly, this part bothered her. A goddess did not need to stoop down to such a level as to steal items, but in this case it was necessary. Normally she obtained everything she wanted normally thanks to the masters, including the increasingly summoned gemstones she needs to begrudgingly store extra magical energy; She didn't need to do that in her original body. If she was to secretly play cupid, she couldn't let anyone know. That suited her just fine as the door clicked open.
Lost in her thought, she didn't realize there was a robot staring at her until the door swung open. She blinked, but the robot continued to stare with its three eyes. They both hovered there awkwardly as the robot's eyes tilted in curiosity. Ishtar looked around hastily before crossing her arms. "You saw nothing."
"My sensors indicate otherwise," the robot calmly responded.
She groaned. "You saw nothing, robot."
"I saw perfectly! My sensors were just cleaned the other day!" It chimed again cheerily.
Ishtar fumed and stared in exasperation. "Just don't tell anyone!"
"Understood, servant! I shall not inform others you were breaking into a room! Have a nice day!"
As the robot hovered away, she sighed in disbelief. She wished the more mundane ones understood hidden meanings. At least Rena was clever enough, even if far too childlike.
In the clear once more, Ishtar peered inside, smiled, and floated within to find her items. Sitting on one of the larger shelves, she quickly spotted a stack of modern recurve bows. They were much more ornate than the ordinary ones of ancient Babylonia, so she knew they would be perfect rather than waste the energy searching for a bow in a singularity. She opened her purse, and carefully slipped the first bow into her discreetly disguised bag of holding.
It was soon joined by a second, just in case.
Stealing was above what a goddess should ever do, so she didn't think of it like that. She was simply borrowing the employee's practice bows from the Shooting Range's storage for the day, then she'd quietly return it later. It was definitely borrowing, which was something a goddess didn't need to do either, but it's hardly the first time she did. After a bit of convincing, she borrowed Gugalanna to take for a walk too.
Ishtar merely didn't calculate she wouldn't be returning it, but that wasn't her fault.
As she exited the closet and closed the door behind her, she frowned upon recognizing a presence. Though in spiritual form, they were clearly not making any attempt to hide it. Judging by the enormity of the presence, she knew exactly who it was, and it made her frown. She turned to face the direction of the servant before closing the door with more force than she wished. At least there was no one else around to hear them.
"Oh? Just taking what you want again as usual? You never change."
Ishtar narrowed her eyes and glared at the not-so-empty air. "You're one to talk, Gilgamesh…"
She frowned as one of the slayers of the beast of the gods materialized a fair distance away to scowl at her. Angry red glared into her irritated eyes, but it was easy to hold her ground against him. He appeared completely, dressed in a leopard print suit jacket with complimenting black collared-shirt and pants. Two of the buttons were undone, revealing his signature necklace between the open folds. With hand on his hip, he ran the other through his loose hair without breaking eye contact.
Gilgamesh was jaw dropping as always, and it was clear why she had wanted him so badly back then. Too bad he was an insufferable, ostentatious asshole.
Rin's gleamed memories had only proven he'd stayed the same, not that Ishtar needed extra evidence to prove that. "What do you want, Gilgamesh? I'm busy."
"Busy being a thief? I didn't think you could stoop any lower than being a spoiled goddess, but you continue to prove me wrong."
"I thought you wanted nothing to do with me. Yet, here you are, approaching me for the first time. What do you desire? I dropped my proposal millennia ago."
"Do not presume to think it has anything to do with that, woman. I was merely out for a stroll, and unfortunately encountered you."
"Then leave it at that. I've got better things to do, and none involve speaking to you," Ishtar scowled back before lifting her chin into the air. He growled as she turned dismissively and walked away, but she stopped. Her eyes turned a venomous shade of red as she eyed him sideways. "…and don't you dare interrupt Emiya-kun and Saber on their date today! If I even catch you anywhere near them, it will take all the Peacekeepers to stop me from destroying you!"
Gilgamesh simply narrowed his eyes as his material form shimmered. "As if you could. Do not flatter yourself just because there's no old gods who will do it for you."
Ishtar growled back, angry he had gotten the last word in as he turned to golden dust. The hallway fell silent as his presence disappeared, but Ishtar still shook. With a long inhale, she placed both her hands over her chest in a refined manner. Slowly, she calmed herself in a manner she had been previously unfamiliar with as she made exaggerated breaths. It felt natural, and whether Rin did this or not to calm herself was uncertain. All she cared about was that it worked.
She was not going to let a prick ruin her day.
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As a holiday, Valentine's Day was considered free time for the staff and servants, save for those who volunteered to help. For the rest, the beach awaited.
Ishtar happily breathed the refreshing air of Fantasia Resort. Though she was technically busy with her self-imposed work, she was content to simply sit elegantly on top of one of the palm trees, happily surveying the activities. With hands folded on top of her crossed legs and a gentle breeze through her silky hair, she hummed to herself as she focused on two employees a distance away. At the request of Marie, the middle-aged man and woman were assisting her three male employees in preparing tables on the boardwalk in front of the tropical flower gardens.
They were handwriting cards with the names of couples who reserved seats for that evening's private dinner. While it wasn't even lunch yet, getting the job done early was paramount for the blue sundress-wearing, French queen. Marie was directing robots as they arrived with selected tables from her salon, which left the two employees alone. Over time, Ishtar had taken an interest in the casually-dressed pair who had been sending occasional hints to each other in quiet whispers. Thanks to her enhanced and focused hearing, she noted all of them to ensure they weren't playfully joking.
With matching glints and bashful smiles, it was clear this wasn't the case.
Her patience paid off as Marie moved towards the flowers where her three-servant staff were busy picking flowers; They could just be replaced easily, even if thousands would remain safe. With her back now turned to the two employees, Ishtar smiled confidently as she pulled one of the bows from her purse. She had applied some temporary decorations in the form of pinks bows with tassels ending in hearts, but they were easy to remove later. They would not interfere with her arrows.
Asking someone to create a love potion of some sort would instantly clue them on her intentions, but a touch-activated elixir was not ideal. She would still need the delivery system to disappear. This was hardly an issue, since Ishtar was a goddess first and foremost, even when trapped in a host body. She plucked a gem from her pouch, and with a few soft-spoken words, transformed it into two glistening ruby arrows. With her own abilities, having a charm-inducing, disappearing projectile was child's play.
Now formed in her temporary weapon, she turned the bow sideways, drew the string back, and took careful aim. Though they were nearly a hundred yards away from the tree she chose, that was a joke for a servant, let alone an archer classed spirit. With a smile, she released the string and watched the projectiles glide effortlessly through the air in a tiny slither of red. They impacted their targets, though one with accidentally more force than the other. The brown-haired male remained seated but gasped after it struck his green collared shirt, while the blue dress-wearing blonde squeaked and fell to the ground nearby.
With a giggle, Ishtar hid the bow in her purse, and focused on the man who now knelt next to the fallen woman. "Ophelia… are you alright?"
By the faint blush on both their cheeks, and the longing look in their eyes, it was only a matter of time until- Ishtar grinned and pumped a fist in the air. Without properly answering, or correctly answering for the archer, the woman grabbed the employee by his collared shirt and crashed her lips into his. As the man let himself get pulled on top of her, and they lost themselves in each other's amplified emotion, Marie turned to walk back. Initially confused, she spotted the pair and gasped loudly, but quickly giggled.
"Oh! Oh my~! Oui oui~!" she clapped happily as the pair hastily broke apart in embarrassment. Ishtar's small charm was just enough to fill them with love and desire, but would only last for a crucial few seconds; The make-out session after was all natural emotion, proving she chose right. As they blushed, Marie ran over to them, causing her straight brushed hair to swing freely, and grinned. "Would you two like a table too? You can write the cards yourself and put hearts and everything~! How long have you been keeping this secret~!?"
The pair turned to each other in embarrassment after the man gently helped the woman up. Two smiles slowly grew before they turned back to the smiling rider.
"Perfect~!" Ishtar complimented herself, gently running a hand through her loose, silky hair in pride. There had been many tales and jokes about the little cherub missing, but she was a Goddess of Love and an archer. If anyone was perfectly suited to spreading the wonderful emotion, it was her. Yes, today was the day she would gladly guide them with her own hand instead of watching curiously. She couldn't allow someone else to possibly take the job of-
"What are you doing up there, Ishtar?" came two twin voices.
"Nothing suspicious at all!" Ishtar cried out as she quickly turned down to face one of her goddess friends… and her twin sister.
The two, smaller Gorgon sisters turned to each other in confusion before facing the goddess once more. Ishtar couldn't help but admire their own little red dresses, which were just dyed replicas of their battle attire; She'd tease them with that later too. As they blinked and crossed their arms with small smirks, Ishtar stared back quietly. A tiny flush appeared on her cheeks when she realized what she had allowed herself to blurt out in response.
Before they could open their mouths, Ishtar swiftly cut in. "Don't take this away from me, Euryale! It's not like I enjoy doing this, but I will! It is my duty as the Goddess of Love! I will be the archer spreading it! I will not permit you to assist me in any way, do you hear me!?"
They blinked again. The twin goddess giggled at her sudden declaration, making her flush further. "Admitted just like that. How shameless~! Have fun, Cupid!"
Ishtar blushed and groaned into her hands. At least they were good enough friends they would likely keep her secret… she hoped.
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Trying a little too hard to look elegant in the reclining chair, Ishtar held her gaze on the two servants leaning against a boardwalk rail. Even as Mata Hari took the reclining chair beside her, since there were no others nearby, she kept her stare subtle but focused. Thankfully, the assassin only seemed interesting in sun bathing as she shed her towel to reveal a very suggestive, orange bikini. With her eyes lost in a fashion magazine, Ishtar eased up on her subtlety to continue observing the young pair.
"Your father didn't let you have the surfboard today?" Jekyll asked. He was leaning with his back against the rail, wearing a white tropical shirt with red board shorts. His best friend stood beside him wearing a partially see-through white shirt tied at the back, which let her red, stringed bikini bottoms show beneath it.
"I didn't ask," Mordred responded offhandedly, though she looked preoccupied in her search. The saber was sifting through a small white backpack on the railing.
"First time all week you're not surfing," Jekyll noted with a curious glance her way.
She made an eager, toothy grin towards him. "Not today! I wanted to do something with you instead!"
As she turned back to her pack, Jekyll blinked and tried his best to hide his blush. Ishtar noted it with an intrigued smile, though slight irritation as well. She had talked with Arturia plenty of times about her daughter's- erm... son's potential love interest, though they always came to the conclusion. Jekyll was too much of a gentleman and afraid to ruin his cherished friendship. Mordred was too much of a child and likely oblivious to the feelings… or too stupid.
Likely both.
However, today was Valentine's Day, and Ishtar was the self-appointed cupid. It was a good day for them, because Chaldea's most prospective and gossiped couple-to-be was about to get their wish! They just didn't know it was their wish, that's all. Well, Ishtar assumed Jekyll definitely did. Mordred was still likely just oblivious that she shares the same feelings, or too stupid to know.
Both? Probably both.
Ishtar hesitated for a second. Arturia was leaving the two alone to let them settle it themselves, but here she was, the saber's close friend, attempting to force the act. On one hand, she didn't actually care too much about the reaction if it was going to cause such a positive result; How could anyone be angry at a goddess for that? On the other, she had respect and trust with the King of Knights she didn't want to jeopardize, since she was one of the closest confidants for her.
The real issue holding her back, however, was trying to figure a way Mata Hari wouldn't notice. She could try to trick Mata Hari into looking away, allowing her to swiftly draw the bow and fire her gem arrows. Asking her politely to get something could also work. There was also the option of floating, or flying, elsewhere to take the shot under a small ruse. While Mata Hari was always nice, they never held a conversation previously, so maybe she didn't need to explain-
"Ha! Found it!" Mordred yelled happily, seizing Ishtar's attention. The goddess stared at the saber as she held up a box of candy.
Thanks to Rin's memories, she recognized the box of strawberry flavored Pocky as a treat appreciated by a fair number in Japan. Why Mordred was so happy about a box was beyond her. She was far more into candy bars from what Arturia always explained. She even got into a scuffle with Ibaraki over candy bars a few days ago, forcing the Peacekeepers to step in before things got too chaotic; The messy results of that cafeteria food fight were the current talk of Chaldea.
"I didn't know you liked Pocky. I should have saved some when I came across it," Jekyll noted as he readjusted his glasses.
"I don't like them often, but there's something fun we can do with them!" Mordred noted as she tore the box open recklessly and pulled out an unsnapped stick.
Jekyll rolled his eyes at her callousness. "Playing with food?"
"It's not like that, idiot! It's a fun game!" Mordred shot back with a small glare before she put the end of the Pocky stick in her mouth.
Ishtar's mouth fell open as Mordred offered the opposing end to Jekyll with a small smile. The assassin quickly flushed as he stared at the stick, and just as often into the saber's vibrant green eyes. Mordred's enthusiastic expression quickly turned to surprise upon noting his blush. She tilted her head curiously, though the stick remained offered as Ishtar muffled her surprised and pleasant giggling. Perhaps she didn't need to do any direct influencing.
"Mordred! What are you doing!?" Jekyll nearly yelped as he took a slight step back.
The saber took the stick out of her mouth momentarily before flashing a toothy grin. "Oh right! I should have explained the game first!"
Jekyll blinked in slight confusion. "Explain? I know wha-"
"No you don't!" Mordred shot back with a slight scowl. "There's nothing wrong with admitting you don't know, because you would have played with me if you did! I'm not that stupid! I can tell when you don't know!"
Ishtar was trying extremely hard to stifle her growing laughter now, as was Mata Hari. 'I can't wait to tell Arturia about this!'
"…Please explain then," Jekyll relented with a nervous chuckle. Mordred's scowl slowly vanished.
"It's called the Pocky Chicken Game," the Saber began with her smile slowly returning. "One of us holds a stick in their mouth, and the other has to bite it off as close to the person's lips as possible without touching them. The one who gets the closest wins! We each get three chances."
Jekyll blinked incredulously as Mordred placed the box down on her backpack. She fiddled with the stick held lightly in her fingers as she grinned as Jekyll. "It shows trust from the holder, and bravery from the biter! I was told Gabby and Gudao do it all the time! A perfect game to show you can trust in my bravery as a knight! Like shooting an apple off a friend's head!"
As Mordred placed the stick back in her mouth, both Ishtar and Mata Hari had hands clamped against their mouths to hold themselves back. Jekyll's own was left hanging as he stared in total disbelief at his best friend, who was happily offering the stick once more. His flush slowly returned, and Jekyll looked around nervously. Ishtar noted his uncertainty, and was slowly growing irritated he might not act on this chance. It was Valentine's Day! Were they really going to drag this out longer!?
"Uh… Mordred?" Jekyll began nervously. Apparently they were, and Ishtar's amusement vanished with a muffled groan of irritation.
Mordred tilted her head again, though she looked irritated to have their game paused. Jekyll sighed with a far more evident blush. "Whoever told you about this game… That's not how it works. It doesn't even have a name… Whoever told you, was trying to get us to do a certain… act, like in that Lady and the Tramp movie you watched with your father for your bi-weekly Disney night… Is that what you want to do?"
Slowly, the saber pieced the puzzle together in her head. As the gears in her head turn, Ishtar ran a hand down her face in total exasperation. The failure of the chance was confirmed when the Pocky stick broke from Mordred biting down too hard. With a flush brighter than her bikini, Mordred began stammering. As her gaze shifted rapidly between the Pocky box and Jekyll's blushing face, the saber looked beyond mortified. Ishtar was blindly reaching into her purse to pull out the bow and gems, but it was too late.
"W-What!?" Mordred yelped in flustered disbelief. "Henry I-I didn't-! Ah! I-I mean… Idiot! I-Idiot that's not what I wanted to do!"
"Wait! Mordred!"
Hiding her fiery face in her hands, she quickly bolted towards Club Cove to presumably leave for her room. Jekyll quickly broke his stunned silence to chase after her. He stopped, turned around, and ran to the railing. Quickly, he placed the Pocky box away, zipped the bag shut, and ran after his fleeing best friend. As their yelling disappeared into Club Cove, much to the likely surprise of its current occupants, Ishtar let out a loud groan.
"Those two are unbelievable… I should have shot them…"
"Tell me about it... I thought that would've worked!"
The goddess stopped upon realizing she wasn't the only one groaning, and so did the assassin. Slowly, the two turned to face each other and blinked. Mata Hari carefully closed her magazine while Ishtar elegantly fixed her sitting position to face the other servant. "… You were the one who told her?"
"I thought it would be a nice joke… until she took it seriously and didn't realize what I was suggesting with the game," Mata Hari admitted with a slight blush. "It almost worked too… if Jekyll wasn't such an honest gentleman and a little more daring about his own personal desires."
"And here I thought there should be less forward individuals in this facility," Ishtar sighed. It would have been nice if her plan worked, but-
"Um… Miss Ishtar, what was that about shooting them? You weren't actually going to shoot them, were you?" Mata Hari asked curiously. Ishtar realized her admittance, and her mind raced to find a cover. It was far too late though. "I know their situation is exasperating, but… are you playing Cupid of some sort?"
Before Ishtar could respond, the assassin held her hands up defensively. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to pry! It's just… you're dressed like a stunning idol today, and you have a bow with pink hearts on it. Sorry if I was assuming too much."
Ishtar blinked in confusion, then looked to her purse placed on the other side of her chair. She deadpanned, realizing in her irritation she did manage to pull the bow out and leave it in plain view. Her cover was practically blown for the assassin, but for some reason, she didn't seem to care. She was more content she had received a nice compliment from a rather respectful individual, but she also found the assassin interesting. As she hid the bow before others could see it, Ishtar kept her gaze locked on Mata Hari with a smile.
"Hm… So you know my little secret for the day… While I could silence you for your insolence, I am curious about a few things, so I shall offer a form of… penance."
Mata Hari paled nervously.
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"Do you know anything about those two?"
"They're just really close friends. The man has a wife he misses dearly, and the woman has a husband and two kids in Canada."
"Oh… That won't do. That would be disgraceful if I were to force that. Let us keep looking."
For the assassin, things couldn't have turned out better for both her and Ishtar. After Mata Hari had explained that matchmaking was a silent hobby of hers, Ishtar had only grown more curious about the self-critical assassin. While Ishtar wanted to ensure she stayed silent about her task, she found Mata Hari to be very pleasant and enthusiastic company. The goddess made an easy decision. Though her pride would not yield to allow Euryale to assist in being cupid, since she was another goddess, the assassin would make a great ally.
Ishtar learned quickly that if anyone knew the private social web of Chaldea, it was Mata Hari. That information was valuable for her task.
Though they mostly discussed who were potential targets, they had also conversed about other interests as well. Ishtar found herself answering to what she initially saw in Gilgamesh, only to even the trade by asking if Mata Hari was looking for anyone in Chaldea. She had then learned it was the assassin's goal to find a relationship where there was equal appreciation from both ends, which was something the Goddess of Love could respect. It was an obtainable and reachable wish by all means.
"How about those two?" Both girls were currently hiding by the tree line between the forest and flower garden, eyeing targets walking within the colorful tropical haven. Mata Hari's lower half was covered by a semi-transparent waist cloth of lovely hibiscus. Her towel had been stashed in Ishtar's purse.
"Oh! Yes! Sid is divorced and interested, but Hanna is rather shy. She undoubtedly enjoys his company though," Mata Hari informed happily.
The Goddess of Love smiled. "Shall we push them over the edge?"
"If it is your will, I shall follow, Ishtar!"
"As expected! You take the girl, and I'll hit the guy!"
The two smiled at each other and nodded. Both of them picked up the bows Ishtar had obtained, though were careful not to disturb the large bush they hid in. It was far from elegant, but Mata Hari couldn't fly, and two servants in a tree would garner attention quickly. Instead, they took aim as Ishtar handed her temporary assistant one of her crafted arrows. With a nod, they both waited for a tandem strike. Shooting was easy, so the goddess poured all her effort into making sure she maintained her elegant appearance. Looks must be carefully maintained when in close proximity to-
Ishtar paused to look over at Mata Hari, who had been making glances her way. "Is something wrong?"
"Oh! Sorry, it's- um…" Mata Hari paused before she smiled brightly. Ishtar was slightly taken back, and eased up on the pulled string. "You just look so beautiful and regal! It makes me jealous. I wish I could look at stunning as you when doing anything!"
Ishtar couldn't keep the proud grin off her face. "Ah… It is only natural for me. Even in this host's body, I strive to appear as inspiring and loveable as I should be."
"It really shows!" the assassin gushed with a giggle. "Even hiding in this bush, you appear so divine and proper! You're so perfect!"
All of the assassin's praising was easily inflating her head at this point. It didn't help a gust of wind blew her hair, and the leaves, like a beauty commercial. "Elegance in all things is pertinent!"
"I agree! Oh, that look you gave was so inspiring and gorgeous! You looked like a supermodel in the magazines!"
"Oh? Do I really? Please, tell me more about that!"
Mata Hari gasped. "You've never looked through a fashion magazine!? Here! Let me get mine out again!"
Unbeknownst to the two now loudly chatting girls, their targets had wandered a little closer and were staring at the pair's bush. It moved and shifted with every shift in speaker, and the now protruding bows certainly didn't help. The casually clad employees looked to each other, nodded, and walked away as laughter echoed from the bush. As they disappeared from sight, the two servants turned their attention back to the flower clearing, only to note their targets had suddenly vanished.
Ishtar sighed. "… I guess we got carried away."
"I'm sorry, Ishtar…"
"It's not your fault alone. I will admit, I got carried away in all the praise too… So then, assistant. Shall we pursue them or find new targets?"
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The two servants leaned against the boardwalk railing and eyed some beach-goers. In particular, the jewel of the staff was wading in the waves and laughing happily. Anishka's sapphire bindi was matched by a jaw dropped, tasseled bikini that looked custom modelled for her. It certainly seized the attention of the two, equally aged Hindu men nearby; They could hardly keep their eyes off her curves. Though there were many other servants and staff enjoying the surf, they definitely had the Cupids' complete attention.
"Those two have been very interested in Anishka ever since she arrived in Chaldea after receiving her father's recommendation," Mata Hari noted as she took a sip from her ice-cold coconut drink with umbrella. "It's only after Fuyuki that they made any hints, and it sparked a secret rivalry behind her back."
"So only one can win," Ishtar concluded as she sipped on her matching drink. She gently placed the coconut down on the rail. It was quickly followed by her purse being situated between the two girls. Mata Hari nodded and looked around to ensure no one was watching them. Everything was clear.
"I'll be aiming for Anishka?"
"You may judge which of the men," Ishtar declared quietly and smiled upon noting Mata Hari's shocked expression. "You're more familiar with them. I will let you do so."
The assassin nodded quickly, probably in an effort not to offend her in any way. She has yet to do so in any way. "Thank you, Ishtar! I'll go for the one I believe would match her best."
Ishtar glanced around, noting an employee was staring at them. They were practically in the open, save for the palm tree giving shade nearby, so they were likely to attract attention. She didn't want to move, otherwise Mata Hari might miss since her confidence in her own abilities was lacking. They'd simply have to make do, so Ishtar kept glancing at the employee, only to become irritated when he tried to break his gaze with her own.
He would look when she wasn't, forcing her to stop reaching into her purse. Then she'd look and he'd turn away. This would repeat as she tried to pull the bows out discreetly; They only needed a handful of seconds to rapidly fire the arrows. The goddess' cheeks were slowly puffing in annoyance, and Mata Hari noted what was happening. The bikini clad assassin stared at the employee seductively and winked, making him blush and quickly vanish into Club Cove as his heart likely raced.
Ishtar laughed. "Well done, Mata Hari! Now's our chance!"
Within seconds, Ishtar and Mata Hari drew the bows and the now shifted gem arrows. They aimed quickly before anyone could notice. Ishtar's sights fell onto Anishka as Mata Hari trained her shot on one of the males standing behind her. The two males made Ishtar's shot harder, but she was an archer and a goddess. At the same time, both released tension on their arrows-
"Mata Hari! Teasing poor employees again?"
The voice shattered their concentration and they released prematurely. In a frantic hurry, they concealed the bows back in Ishtar's purse before turning to the source of the laughing voice. Arash came into view without a shirt, chuckling happily from Club Cove's nearby entrance where the employee disappeared. His swimsuit was slightly damp and depicted the night sky with several shooting stars on it. Ishtar and Mata Hari breathed in relief that he didn't see what they had been doing seconds before.
"Can you blame me? He kept staring at us!" Mata Hari huffed and playfully put her hands on her hips. She had a warm smile for the well-toned male archer who shook his head with a grin.
"Sheesh. I can't let you out of my sight can I?" He joked before turning his attention to Ishtar. "Keeping my friend company, Goddess Ishtar?"
"It's a mutual endeavor," she admitted with a small smile. He bowed in thanks before looking back at the assassin.
"Just be careful, Mari. One of them might actually ask you out if you keep it up," he winked in jest, making her shake her head and roll her eyes.
As he walked away, the assassin called out to him. "Tell Bryn and Paracelsus I said hi!"
The archer shot one last signature grin back towards them, coupled with a friendly wave. Mata Hari sighed, clearly thankful he had not suspected anything. Ishtar took the sigh as something else entirely, and slowly leaned into the peripheral vision of the assassin. Mata Hari turned to her, and a blush crept onto her cheeks due to the curious look Ishtar had as the goddess shifted her eyes between the two targets.
"How entertaining. You didn't tell me you wanted to be more than friends with Arash. Should I hit you two with arrows as well?" Ishtar teased with a suggestive look.
Mata Hari blushed. "Ishtar! It's definitely not like that! Please don't hit us with…"
Both of them blinked as the assassin fell silent. Right… they fired charm-gem arrows earlier. Quickly, the two turned towards the beach to figure out the results of what happened. Their eyebrows rose in confusion at Anishka's blushing face and covered mouth. It should have been matched by one of the guys, but the two were instead staring at each other suspiciously and wiping their mouths in-
"Oh… Oh my…" Ishtar mumbled as the puzzle pieces fit into place. That… had not gone as intended. At all.
"H-How did you miss!?" Mata Hari blurted out before covering her mouth.
Ishtar quickly blushed and stammered. "I-It's not like I was distracted or anything!"
Confidence renewed that she wouldn't be reprimanded for yelling at a goddess, Mata Hari pushed further. "…But you're the archer!"
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
They considered expanding their search to the salon, since some preferred the quiet refinement today, but it had far less targets than the resort. They had successfully struck Hanna and Sid that they missed earlier, causing them to admit their feelings. Though it was only their second success in their hours of patrolling, the pair found the search spent talking to each other was far more fun than an actual success. Even just the gossip of playing matchmaker was keeping them pleasantly entertained well into the late afternoon. They stopped talking about what the different gem colors she carried today meant upon seeing new opportunities.
"How about Nightingale and Beowulf?"
"Just friends. Though I always thought they'd have unbelievably rough and wild sex since they're berserkers."
Ishtar shot Mata Hari a sly look. "You sure are quite imaginative yourself. Though as a Goddess of Sex and Fertility, I approve."
"I didn't mean to bring up the baby part!" Mata Hari laughed.
"Sex is the act of baby making, therefore it still applies," Ishtar stated with finality and a smile. "What about those two servants?"
"I think Kintoki and Shuten might actually be a thing. I don't want to hastily pull the trigger though… She hasn't been here long enough for me to-" Mata Hari stopped as she looked into the distance. Her smile grew. "Ah! See the brunette and blue-head sitting on the swings and watching the children? I've long suspected them of harboring feelings!"
"What are we waiting for then?" Ishtar asked rhetorically with a smile. The two sped their approach on the boardwalk, while discussing suitable concealment.
Usually Ishtar would find herself placing much more emphasis on asserting superiority with others, but she couldn't bring herself to do that with Mata Hari. She was far too kind, respectful, and considerate when dealing with the goddess. She would make for a worthy follower, but she was treating her more as a friend with every passing hour. Quietly, the goddess happily accepted it. This day had become more fun with her assistant involved.
The pair froze when the four servant girls ran up to them. Ishtar knew their cover was blown, but Mata Hari looked far more interested in playing with the children than worrying. Jack and Nursery Rhyme ran up to the assassin as she leaned down to hug them. They were wearing matching pink blouses with jeans. Illya and Kuro also wore matching clothes, but in different color variations. Though they sported jean shorts, Kuro's red blouse set her apart from Illya's pristine white one. The Einzbern sisters had made their way to Ishtar happily.
"Rin! Have you come to play with us?" Illya asked as Ruby flew into view. Someone had attacked an obnoxious, pink bow to its back.
"Sexy dress! Who's the lucky guy in mind?" Kuro noted with a smirk.
Ishtar only laughed at the two as Illya began stammering at the insinuation towards her former mentor, of sorts. Though she didn't have the memories of Rin from their dimension, Illya and Kuro were kind enough to fill her in. It had taken only a bit of mind juggling to figure out they were both arguably the same person, but not entirely different existences. Thanks to them, she had two adorable girls who treated her like a family friend, and she definitely couldn't say no to that. Well, her real self likely could, but she didn't mind this perception either.
"No one has earned the right to grace this body… yet," Ishtar noted with a wink, making Kuro chuckle and Illya to blush.
"Are you here to play, Rin?" Illya asked again to shift the conversation as Ruby floated above her combed hair.
Ishtar was at a loss of explanation, but Mata Hari's giggling turned her attention away. Thankfully, it appeared her assistant had a plan already baked. "Sorry girls, but Ishtar and I are on a special mission. The Goddess of Love is making happiness happen where Cupid cannot!"
The goddess blanched at the open declaration. She was about to reprimand Mata Hari for breaking her promise, but noted the children were now chatting between themselves curiously. Mata Hari only winked at them. "You have to keep it a secret though! In exchange, could you distract the two employees by the swings?"
"Oh! They're secretly in love?" Nursery Rhyme's eyes sparkled. She was clearly inspired by the idea of a fairy tale style dream happening with her help.
Mata Hari giggled happily while Ishtar smiled at the assassin's cleverness. "Yes, but we're going to make sure they find happiness. Just act like nothing is different!"
Ishtar chuckled with Mata Hari as the four girls gave a mock salute and ran off back into the playground. The goddess eyed the assassin. "You concerned me there."
"I should have convened with you first. I'm sorry-"
"I trust you. Don't worry," Ishtar giggled as she motioned for them to find suitable cover. They momentarily went into spirit form to reposition themselves.
Atalanta slowly walked towards the playground with a picnic basket likely full of treats, but Jack ran up to distract the green sundress wearing archer. Illya, Kuro, and Nursery Rhyme had the two employees completely distracted from the two servants now hiding in the brush behind them. With a nod of approval at the situation, Ishtar and Mata Hari drew their bows from the purse, lined up their gem shots, and sent them flying.
Unfortunately, Ishtar's eagerness at the stable plan made her release the bow with much more force than intended. The result was the poor woman being hit with a hard strike to the center of her back, sending her flying forward onto the sandy ground meters in front of her. The male, who had been struck lightly, gasped in despair and quickly ran over to her. The children watched as he gently turned her around, only for their eyes to meet. She slowly leaned towards him and initiated the kiss, making the children clap happily and cheer.
With a sigh of relief, Ishtar tossed a thankful glance at Mata Hari. "I thought I made another unbelievable error."
"I'm surprised you're making so many… uh, no offense!" the assassin mentioned with a small smile and raise of her hands.
"No, I don't blame you. I think this Rin has something to do with that. At least this one didn't-"
"Move out of the way! Miss! I saw what happened! Are you alright?"
Ishtar and Mata Hari paled nearly as fast as the children. They slowly turned back towards the newly formed couple as they remained hidden, watching as Nightingale ran with glowing red eyes towards the pair. The berserker in a red lifeguard bikini kneeled next to them, noting the woman had been rubbing her back with a sore expression. Her face was now terrified and glancing hopefully at her newfound companion.
"I…I-I'm fine! Really, there's nothing-"
"Children! Unhand me this instant! This is a medical emergency! I must ensure there are no fractures or any bruises! What if sand got in her eyes!? Vigilance is paramount!"
The clinging quadra of children looked desperately at the two employees, and they got the message clearly, even as they yelled over each other. 'Run away while you can!'
"Thanks, kids!" the male yelled as he grasped the female's hand gently. They both bolted away as Nightingale continued to break free.
Ishtar and Mata Hari were staring in amusement and shock as the berserker's usual, crazed frenzy caused her to accidentally knock Jack to the ground. The assassin landed on her rump with a small yelp, though it definitely couldn't hurt a servant. Judging by the sudden glint of opportunity in her eyes, Jack had found a new way to victory. Assassins were renown for striking in the most unassuming ways, and she let loose her undeniable noble phantasm which no adult could withstand. It was super effective.
"Ah! Jackie!" Nursery Rhyme released Nightingale as the berserker froze at the familiar sound.
The small caster ran next to her adopted sister as she cried loudly on the ground. Kuro and Illya shot amused looks at each other upon noticing Nightingale's grief-stricken face. Atalanta, who had noticed the entire thing, only smirked in enjoyment at how clever her little girls were. Jack continued wailing even as Nightingale slowly crawled over and pulled the assassin into a hug, now completely released from her previous frenzy. She attempted to soothe the crying Jack while Ishtar and Mata Hari attempted to suppress their own laughter.
"W-Why did you p-push me?" Jack questioned as tears raced down her cheeks. It didn't match the sly smile she shot over her shoulder at her sister and friends.
"I'm sorry! I'm really sorry! Shhh… Your mother's coming. It will be alright…"
Jack's expression fell upon realizing Nightingale's hug grew tighter. She slowly pulled back while the assassin reassumed her sad face. It turned fearful upon noticing the glint starting to flare in the berserker's eyes. "…I didn't hurt you, did I? Are you hurt anywhere? I must do a thorough examination!"
Jack's renewed crying was likely in hopes of diffusing the new situation… or maybe it was real this time. The two matchmakers couldn't tell, or blame her.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IX ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The girls shifted their last search to the marina, where two newly conversing servants had caught their attention. "Milady, you seem displeased about something. Is there any way I could help?"
"You can start by calling me Pharaoh, as is my proper title… Not milady..."
The male saber was leaning against one of the pier's support pylons while talking to a partially unamused Nitocris. The pharaoh had her arms crossed over her daring, golden bikini, and her headdress twitched in irritation like her pouting mouth. As the sun began its last descent, it bathed her in golden light, making her absolutely stunning. Lancelot, with his muscled chest in full view thanks to his open, white Hawaiian shirt, only seemed to press further. He struck a new pose while placing one hand on his black board shorts, attempting to look like a model.
"This is starting to look like some of those corny teenage movies I watch with Marie sometimes," the assassin sighed. "Poor Nitocris. Lancelot's been putting the moves on her recently."
Ishtar blinked and stared at Mata Hari. "…but he does that with all women occasionally, doesn't he?"
"Well… yea. He has become flirtier since his class change but… maybe we should push him towards someone to…" Mata Hari trailed off as they stared at the dock.
Lancelot's face had grown pale upon seeing Nitocris grow a knowing smirk, and not at him. The saber pushed himself off of the dock's support pylon, and slowly turned to face what the caster was seeing. It was exactly as he guessed, as Mashu, in a very cute, lilac sweetheart dress stomped towards him. Her approach was firm and undeniable. Her glasses were off, placing nothing between her enraged face and his shocked one as she leaned towards him. He leaned back from the shorter shielder in concern and fear, making Nitocris laugh openly.
"M-Mashu! I assure you, my precious daughter, I can-"
"NO! You can't explain!" Mashu roared as she reached up and grabbed him by the ear. He winced and flailed as she began dragging him towards the boardwalk. "You do this every time! Why can't you just be civil and respectful and stop flirting with so many girls, PAPA!?"
"I-I'm sorry! I won't do it again!" Lancelot relented to his overwhelmingly assertive daughter. Has soft-spoken Mashu always been this potentially firm?
Nitocris was struggling to keep herself standing due to stomach cramps from laughing, while Ishtar and Mata Hari watched in total disbelief and amusement. They slowly looked to each other before mutually succumbing to the amusing scene. The only ones not laughing were Mashu and Lancelot.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ X ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Their task was done, and they were content to leave their bows in plain sight as the red sun set behind them.
The two servants rested on a bench, staring happily towards the couples being seated at Marie's special evening dinner. Emiya and Arturia glanced their way and gave a friendly wave, which the two happily returned. The exceptionally well dressed archer turned back to his date, intertwining his arm with Arturia's smiling own as she grasped his hand with her blue opera glove. His black suit and her blue strapless dress soon disappeared behind the curtains set up to give the couples' tables privacy for the sunset viewing.
Ishtar sighed in contentment. "Well, it was fun while it lasted."
"At least we made a few new couples happy!" Mata Hari noted with a happy shoulder bump. Ishtar returned it with a giggle. The assassin turned to the goddess with a warm smile. "Thanks for a fun day, Ishtar! If I had known you weren't just kind and considerate to those Rin knew…"
Instead of taking it as an insult, she found she couldn't be mad at her newfound friend. She only teasingly scowled. "Are you saying you thought I was as bad as my legend?"
"No! Oh goodness, no! I'm sorry I-"
Ishtar dropped the guise and laughed. "Relax, Mata Hari! I had fun with you too! You were great company on my matchmaking endeavor!"
The assassin blinked and paused. Finally, she giggled and nodded happily. "I'm glad! Maybe we could do it again sometime?"
"Force couples together? It would be frowned upon when not Valentine's Day."
Mata Hari shook her head. "I mean spend time together! I'd like to become your friend hopefully… if that's alright, I mean!"
Ishtar placed a hand to her lips in false thought. She didn't need to think about this. Mata Hari had been great company, and there was nothing Ishtar could really fault the servant for besides her self-depreciation at her usefulness. The archer could always try and correct that somehow, though there was only so much she could do in this form. For the kind and cheerful assassin, she could at least give it a shot.
"I shall permit it, though I expect tribute in the form of occasional praise," Ishtar mentioned with an amused smile.
Mata Hari giggled. "As you desire, oh beautiful Goddess Ishtar!"
"Ah, so you two were playing Cupid all day."
The two blinked and turned as Arash approached them. He now had a Hawaiian shirt designed like a setting sun, though his board shorts remained. Behind him, Club Cove was active with the rest of the dinner guests. Activity was spread between there and the outdoor cafeteria's barbecue, but the archer had left the moving mass of people to approach them. The two's growing smiles made Arash's grin widen upon the revelation.
"Something like that," Mata Hari winked to him with a giggle.
"Mind if I see one?" Arash asked curiously as he stared at the bows.
"I shall permit it," Ishtar joked as she reached behind her to grab one. She presented it to Arash, who made an exaggerated gesture of taking it like a gift. The girls laughed, and Ishtar silently considered if Arash would make another good friend to have. He was already well loved by nearly everyone in the facility.
"I have received your blessing, Goddess Ishtar," Arash joked. Perhaps she should get to know this amusing archer better. The brunette eyed the bow and its tassels before his eyebrows rose. "Ah, you borrowed some bows from the Storage Room. I thought you got some yourself in secret."
"Would you like a demonstration from the superior Cupid?" Mata Hari joked. Arash nodded in agreement.
"Then it shall be done," Ishtar declared proudly as Arash handed the bow back to her. She calmly reached into her purse to obtain a non-charmed gem, but which one. The other two watched as she glanced for targets, and spotted the knitting group talking with Spartacus. Boudicca, in a conservative white halter dress, failed to keep the berserker preoccupied. Spartacus spotted Romulus trying to sneak past.
"A Roman oppressor! Are you too cowardly to try and get past while I'm looking? Are you that fearful of me!?"
The toga clad Romulus could only sigh in exasperation upon being dragged into another one-sided argument with the berserker. At least Leonidas' discovery of sparring with him to reduce his antagonization helped. "That was not Roma's intent, Spartacus…"
"I shall use a lighter charm to end this peacefully. Pink should do," Ishtar declared to her two companions as she blindly pulled out a gem. As she materialized the pink gem with eyes closed, she took aim pridefully in a show of sheer confidence and elegance. She did not see Mata Hari's horrified expression; Ishtar drew a red one, which were the charm gems they had been using earlier.
"Ishtar wai-" Too late. She let the arrow loose as she opened her eyes. Upon noting the streak of red, she paled.
The arrow struck Spartacus and shattered, though it drew the attention of Romulus and the knitting group. They stared at the hulking berserker as he fell silent, only for him to look at the Roman with a new expression. Slowly, he reached out for Romulus, and a face of total terror crossed the lancer's face upon realizing what was going to happen. Boudicca covered her mouth with her hands as Naomi returned to her group, confused about what was happening. The blue pencil dress clad employee nearly dropped her dinner plate at the sight.
"No! Release Roma this instant!" Romulus stammered as Vlad considered whether he should stop the berserker in this war using more forceful means as well.
"I will never release you, oppressor, like you never released me!" To the horror of all in ear shot, Spartacus murmured it in a soft voice. That smile never looked so creepy.
"I… I think I'm done playing Cupid for the day," Ishtar groaned out as her two companions rushed to help Romulus from impending doom.