firstworldproblem | CURSE YOU CAPTCHA

[ he looks pretty satisfied with that answer and already he's looking insufferably smug about Emet's admission ]

You've always known I'm a fast learned. But that does make sense — you said it yourself the physical isn't one of your highest interests.

I might like to try it, then, another time. To see which of us would come on top. But I did want to focus on your needs and wants, especially after your surprise.

I suppose I should not grouse. I could have been gifted another Scion.

And if he was not on BARiTONES, at least he is on a unit that we have a good relationship with. And if BARiTONES was any indication he has a flock of mother hens following him.

He will not be alone and well looked after. Better than most alternatives.

His first game ended up being, well. This, as well. So it isn't terribly bad. He seems to have some struggles with understanding the concept of having to kill others and he's clearly inclined for self-sacrifice. But I do think he will do fine.

He'll adapt. It may take time, but he will.

And it was for this reason I did not want to burden him further with expectations regarding our previous relationship. I would build it from the ground up rather than have him feel it must be one he honors.

[ he nods ]

I do think that's a good idea. ... Though less than ideal circumstances aside. I am glad you can see him again, after so long. I know how complicated that is, but still ... for you it's been several lifetimes already.

In the end, his mental well being is more important than any irrational worries that I have. And those whom I have come to cherish and open my heart to are ensuring just that. You. Absinthe. Lily. Cardinal. Vergil.

I am greatly indebted to you all and if I might be honest, a little in awe of it.

It doesn't make the situation ideal, but ... Better than I hoped I believe is the best way to sum it up.

...Well. I'm glad we can at least help with some of it. But keep in mind we're only giving you back as much as you've given us.

I don't think there's a single person on that list who hasn't been thoroughly charmed by you.

Then I will just consider it payback to Hythlodaeus for all that he has given me.

[He does tap his chin.]

Though once he does regain his memories he will be as fierce an asset as any of us in regards to study. For example, I cannot cure the Starscourge alone, but together we might actually be able to find a solution.

I suppose my time is limited that I can boast I am the expert on souls.

—Really. Is he even more skilled than you in that regard?

Did I not tell you the seat of Emet-Selch's first recommendation was Hythlodaeus? But he claimed he was not as practical and thus turned down the seat.

His Sight is equal if not greater to my own. And his wit to match.

Edited 2020-12-15 19:47 (UTC)

You've mentioned he turned the position down, but I hadn't exactly imagine he'd be as capable as you in that regard.

Though you're right about his wit. He's already debated me.

That's isn't just only him. You'll find such individuals everywhere in Amaurot when you arrive there.

I do remember that. And admittedly this did have me looking forward to it. I figure once I am in Amaurot I'll also be able to just blink away if the debate doesn't interest me.

That...

[He taps his nose.]

... would be poor manners.

And boring me with an awful debate isn't? Really, they would bring it on themselves.

[He laughs.]

You could politely decline, you know. A few simple words and freedom from boredom would be yours.

Mmm ... No, that doesn't have the same draw to it.

But admittedly considering your people are polite enough that a few simple words would be enough even I would feel bad about it.

And you call me dramatic.

Truthfully, they would be amused by your antics more than not. I daresay some would even make a game of seeing who could make you teleport the fastest.

[He pauses.]

I do hope you enjoy his company. To get to hear the tales from him directly, fresh and without the taint of time and loss that my own stories are painted with.

Perhaps I should invite him to the movie room.

You're still far more dramatic than I ever will be, I simply enjoy having the last word.

As for Levity ... I am enjoying his company. Not surprising, considered you have taken care to mention I would quite often. I will look forward finding out more about your people and Amaurot through him.

And to hear his stories about the time you spent together. ... I did offer to be there for him when he takes his memories. Just in case.

But yes. You should invite him. I imagine you'd both enjoy it.

[He simply nods and pauses for a moment to think.]

'Tis a little like stepping on glass. Talking to him. I'm sure you feel the same about your family. Ever do you want their approval.

[ he would protest about wanting their approval but they would both know it's a giant lie, so he doesn't, and nods. ]

I do imagine our feelings are quite similar under these circumstances, in a lot of ways. And you're right, it's like walking on glass. ... But I'd say in the end it's worth it. you've missed him, haven't you.

Edited 2020-12-15 23:16 (UTC)

Everyday I have missed him. His humor. His wit. His guidance.

And I do not doubt his worth. I simply do not want to fight with him.

I suppose what I'm trying to say is that the joy you will feel at spending time with him is worth the nagging doubts to the back of your mind.

[ he'll bring his hand to his cheek, thumb stroking it gently as he looks up at him ]

Do you think you will, if you spend time with him, if he gets to know you better as you are now? Fight him.

Is that the truth? For when you spend time with Klaus and Luther?

[He taps his chin.]

Yes, about everything and anything. For he and Azem were always of a capricious nature. That is their charm, but as I said things have changed.

It is. Though I do end up thinking sometimes it would have been better if they hadn't arrived here. Every time I'm with them it takes a conscious effort not to slide into back habits again. To act as our father taught us. To bring the worse in each other. I fear that soon enough they'll be the ones to think I'm not worth their time after all.

[ but that's not what he wanted to talk about, so he presses on, his hand moving to the back of his neck now ]

If it is just "everything and anything" and not something you care for, wouldn't you have fun with it? Like old times, perhaps. Or are you worried it would be something more serious than that?

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