[ it's a tall order to make, that level of loyalty. in truth, it's something she has to wonder if she is even capable of, given her history, her lineage.

but every time she thinks of the betrayals she herself has suffered, and feels the rise of bile in her mouth and white-hot hatred pool in her gut — she thinks she's certain she'd rather die than do that to anyone else.

even someone like mephisto.

but there are precautions to take. many of them. none of this is in ink, which makes sense, as tamers of all people know the power and limitations of it — but she must still be wise. she is no longer the scared eleven year old with her back to the wall. in this deal, she has control. ]

If we are to be allies, then we are equals, and the same is expected of you, right?

[ she turns on a foot then, meeting his eyes with her own. hers are a deep red, the color of her mother's blood. ]

You wouldn't betray me, not even for yourself.