First Impressions [Ancient Sumeria] (tag: Nergal)
Ereshkigal liked order to her day. Not that she had a specific schedule, it really wasn't applicable given her duties and how those that entered Irkhalla arrived. But she did have order. And now that order was being disturbed by an unannounced visitor from the Heights above. But she wasn't about to complain, because there was every chance that it was a messenger from Enki, even if it was probably not Enki himself. She did miss her twin dearly.
So as the mysterious visitor passed through the gates, she took the opportunity to make herself look impressive. She always looked the part of the queen that she was, but this called for something special. She pulled out her red tufted dress, knowing that the color looked particularly good on her. Next came the kohl applied to her eyes, and rouge rubbed into her cheeks. After pulling her hair back into a tight chignon, Ereshkigal donned one of her fuller wigs with the help of her servants, and placed one of her more elaborate crowns atop it, pinning it to the wig. This was followed by necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. A glance in the polished metal mirror showed that she was looking particularly lovely. She wanted this messenger to return to the Heights Above talking about how well he found her, it would please Enki.
Her throne room was cleared in preparation for the visitor. While mortals that entered her realm were prepared for the procedure they'd endure, other divinities were not always as accommodating. Having an audience would make them feel more self-conscious. A robe was placed within arm's reach, so that she could offer it to her guest once they appeared. Her servants were within earshot should they be needed, once her guest was made comfortable. All was in readiness.
Placing herself upon her throne, Ereshigal made certain her dress was draped perfectly so that it would still show off her figure. Spine straight, chin held high despite the weight of the wig and crown, she knew that she looked the part of a dark queen, because that was indeed what she was. She was now prepared to greet whomever had been sent, and to receive whatever message they were carrying. Even if it did mess up the order in her day.