Hmph.

[The first shape wavers as it hovers in nothingness; and with a flash, it expands, forming the still translucent outline of a man.]

You know quite well how often He told us not to waste any time.

We are not wasting any.

[The second shape follows the example of the first one, extending pseudopodia and eventually becoming the blurry, indistinct outlines of a woman.]

We are, in fact, almost finished.

Almost?

Almost.

*The male shape quivers with an inaudible sigh*

Don't worry. I made sure all parameters are met. We'll be able to interact directly, just like He predicted.

If only the riping process wouldn't last this long...

[The female shape shivers with a chuckle, outlines blurring as she touches her male counterpart in what might be a pat, a hug, an embrace, or a kiss.]

It will be all right. Have patience?

Mhm mmm...

[Fade.]

[ All is quiet, covered in white bliss. No movement stirrs the layers of snow... ]

Voices: o/~ We're men! We're men in tights! We're running around the woods looking for fights! o/~

[ ... That is, until the Anti-Snow Alliance makes its way past, still going for that world record in high-speed snow shovelling. ]

Voices: o/~ We're men! We're men in tights! We rob from the rich, and give to the poor, that's right! o/~

[ And soon, the assorted horde of demons, roaches and spiders is around the corner, their song echoing from the walls of the surrounding buildings. ]

Voices: o/ We may look like pansies, but better watch out or we'll knock out your lights! o/

[ Calm returns to the scene, a fine layer of silky snow already accumulating again. Until... ]

Ruto: XELLOSS! *bursts through the doors* XELLOOOOOOOSS!!!

[The muse is a mess, really. Her cheeks are stained with tears, her hair in disarray, and despite the cold she is barefoot, a blanket wrapped over her skimpy clothes only protection from the weather. Her eyes, though... to call them "burning" would be the same as to call the pits of hell "campfires".]

Ruto: GIVE HIM BACK!!! I WANT HIM BAAAACK!

[She stands panting after this as if expecting the walls to answer her cries, but silence is all that greets her. Eventually, she slumps, sobbing.]

Ruto: Iaaaaaan~~~~... Why? What do the Mazoku want from you, now that you are powerless? Oh gods Ian, nooo...

...