[ ... she hadn't wanted to be too harsh for a reason, but it seems even that's struck a chord. malkuth presses her lips together briefly, rubbing his with her thumb. ]

But you're still young. [ gentle, encouraging. ] I'm sure you're open to learning a few new tricks, aren't you?

[ it's not so bad, she'd told her employees. you've lost your arm, but you're still alive, aren't you? that means you're more capable than the person who lost their head!

such days are behind her, but they still have their apparent use. her other hand runs through his hair a little, nails scratching at his scalp. like he's a good boy for not snapping at her. ]

I did well at my job, Izou. I wouldn't have an issue handling a hellhound like you -- always getting the short end of the stick, when you deserved to be rewarded for your efforts. You'd take whatever I put you through like a champ, wouldn't you? Just [ a tap of her thumb ] like [ with every word ] now.

[ pressing a bit in between them, as if daring him to bite her and find out, daring him to be good and see what he gets. ]