auroraexpress | The Nineteenth Trial

The way I see it it's anything that would give us an advantage, regardless of the situation. Like you said. If it's needed. The way I see it those are the same.

Besides, you and I are the adults of the team. If there's a need to kill someone or be killed, it's best we handle it ourselves.

[Shrugs.] There's a lot of times where killing someone is 'convenient' without being necessary. Great way to end an argument at the moment, though not necessarily for something longterm.

But you are right on the adult thing. Twilight would take it badly, Dawn is... [A lying hot mess.] And Noon might be a little too okay with it.

Don't blindside it unless I've become some kind of raving monster though. Especially if Noon is around.

I'll keep that in mind.

[ And it's his turn to sound sincere, and maybe there's an actual willingness to take people's feelings in consideration. He's even making sure his massage his gentle now, despite the earlier squeeze ]

... I never really enjoyed it, you know. Killing people. It was just something I did to go about my daily life. One more thing to do before I could get back home. Never gave it much thought.

[It does help to hear that. He knows Five's bad at emotions, so trying goes a long way.]

Really the only way to go through a lot of killing. Sometimes I was angry, sometimes I really wanted someone dead, but most of the time, it was just about the goal. They're in the way. They need to be gone so I can reach the goal.

Why I don't think Twilight is a trained assassin type. I don't think he can achieve that kind of disconnect.

He seems kind enough. You're probably right with that.

[ And now he's going to move his hands off of him, since there's no time limit on the massage ]

I'm done with mine, so let's complete yours.

He is. And he feels a lot even if he's got a straight face.

Good job.

[Considers a moment.]

Please, oh please, can you give me advice on how to make better coffee? I'm begging you.

[The most deadpan begging, hands clasped in front of him.]

[ How dare you be endearing in any capacity. He's smiling again and that's the most he's smiled in like. Years. ]

Wouldn't you like to know. I'm keeping my secrets with me.

[IT'S WHAT HE DOES.]

Oh no, but I must know. [Still deadpan, but putting his hand to his forehead in a dramatic gesture.] How can I live without your refined taste of coffee. I'll do anything if you'll tell me.

You just get decent beans and equipment and try not to burn them. Twilight would probably give you more in-depth advice.

Never beg me ever again, it's gross.

[He straightens up with a laugh.]

Understood, but that's two squares.

You want a massage this time?

[ He does not look particularly happy at the prospect like. At all ]

... We're getting you the square, so might as well. Make it quick.

Could just do your hand if that'd be less annoying.

It wouldn't be less annoying.

[ If anything it'd feel more personal, so ]

But we're going through it anyway. I'm taking a second card.

Got it.

[Hey, he tried.]

[But he'll move behind Five and here is a massage.]

[And he actually knows how to do it properly, so hey, maybe it'll help Five relax maybe.]

[ Over his dead body. The moment Dusk's hands are on him he just tenses up more, so there's absolutely no relaxing here ]

I'm going to be saving up for our death fund, but you know. Maybe first thing I'll do is get a goddamn pink suit.

[Poor touch starved guy.]

I do have several thousand in the bank. Got the wiggle room for it.

If I'm taking sparks from you I'd rather it be for drinks than for clothes.

I meant for the revival fund. Spreading it out is good anyway. Can't use the sparks if the person is down, so everyone being able to do one or two at least would mean being able to get up anyone else needed to cover the rest.

[ He's still extremely tense, but he is easing up a tiny little bit as Dusk keeps going ]

I agree. I took the idea from you to start with, and spreading out seems like the most efficient way to take care of everyone if something happens.

Yeah. [He really should talk to the others about it. At least Noon should be up to hearing about the Death Fund. He'll need to be more delicate with Twilight though.]

[But there is no time limit for the massage, and after a few more moments, he'll pull his hands away.]

Just saying, as long as you have a thousand to save, you're safe to get some more comfortable clothes.

[ definitely better now that there are no hands on him anymore ]

I'll consider doing more bonds. For now, winning this game and my bet with Crow is the best way to get more.

Could just make it a habit to greet people with a joke. Don't necessarily need a laugh to get the points.

My sense of humor doesn't lend itself to that. But I'll keep it in mind.

... Thanks for the help, Dusk.

[Taken aback a moment.]

Oh.

Anytime.

Should I get offended by that amount of surprise?

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