Week 2, Monday - The Dragon

[fragileprophet]

[Ion's had...a lot on his mind. It's hard not to, when you feel like a ticking time bomb. Every move he makes in this game is only leading him closer and closer to the inevitable fulfillment of his objective--and it's led him to a shaky sort of resolution: if this is going to happen, and maybe it has to happen, it has to be under his own control. It's an objective, after all. As much as he's promised others that he'd be careful, and keep himself as far from harm as he could, this is always what it's led toward. It's no different here than it is on Auldrant.

For him, there is no Happy Ending. Just an Ending. For that, he'll have so many people to apologize for the promises he's about to break.

As if sensing his thoughts, a door appears. Respectfully, Ion enters, and bows before the Dragon.]

Thank you for taking the time to see me.

Comments

[themodsgrimm]

[She remains poised at her throne, nodding in response to his bow.]

I try to fulfill what desires I can in this place.

What is it that you seek?

[fragileprophet]

[Ion takes a breath, and when he rights himself, he smiles easily. Even if the topic is grim, there's no need to be rude.]

I'd like to discuss my objective, if that isn't too much trouble. Because it's so definitive, I'd...like to know if you'd be able to help me.

[themodsgrimm]

[She seems to take a moment to consider - as if trying to recall exactly which objective was his.

When she seems to recall, her expression flattens for a moment before smoothing out again, and she nods.]

I understand. What help do you seek?

[fragileprophet]

A couple things...though forgive me if I'm presuming too much. If any of this is outside if your power, I completely understand.

[His fingers flex around his staff as he leans his weight slightly into it.]

First, if at all possible, I'd like to be able to volunteer as a target. It doesn't have to be right away, but if there's a need for someone else to die, and a choice can't be made on who...anything like that. Would that be possible?

[themodsgrimm]

... I can provide suggestions, should someone be unwilling to pick a person for themselves. Would you like it to be known that this is your specific request?

I cannot promise that anyone will listen to me - the choice is what matters most in this game, to me.

But if this is what you seek, I can try.

[fragileprophet]

Thank you.

[He pauses, considering her question, as well.]

Yes...I think that would be best. I'd hate for someone to find either of the two of you at fault for the suggestion when really it's my own.

[There's sadness and hesitation underneath his soft features and resolute words. Is one ever really prepared to die?]

If this does come to pass...I don't expect to be met with those who would be meeting me on the night in question, but would it be possible that I could be informed in some manner, just so I know that it's time?

[themodsgrimm]

[She pauses, considering.

When she speaks again, it is soft and - partially relieved.]

... Yes.

[fragileprophet]

[Ion loses a tension in his shoulders that he didn't realize he was carrying. He sighs, relieved.]

Thank you...that's very good news. Even just having a few days warning, I'll be able to make sure that I leave with no regrets.

[Time for a self-sacrificial rampage, is what he's saying. Still, he smiles at the Dragon.]

I have one more request, if I may.

[themodsgrimm]

[that's horrifying why is this little pope like this]

I'm listening.

[fragileprophet]

[He has a terrible condition called low self-worth combined with a player who loves to kill her darlings, whoops.]

If in the event that my death to the expectations written in my rulebook becomes certain...would I be able to relay to you what I'd like in return for fulfilling my objective in advance so that it may, if doable, be made possible right away? I only ask because what I'm hoping for...it isn't for myself.

[themodsgrimm]

[ . . .

Again, she seems to wait and - ]

Yes. Would you like to report what you would have used your token for to me now?

[fragileprophet]

Yes, please.

[He folds his hands carefully in front of him, trying to think of the best way to express what he's hoping for.]

If he should end up completely partnerless, I would appreciate a means of staying Sandalphon's execution, giving him another chance. I think...he deserves more time, and I can't stand the thought of taking that away from him because I decided to accept my fate alone. He doesn't see much worth in himself...but I do.

[He pauses.]

If that's impossible...I'll have to think a little bit harder on it.

[themodsgrimm]

.... you would use your wish on another...

[And she offers a soft smile, before it seems to disappear from her face altogether again.]

I understand. Should this come to pass and your objective be completed, your wish will be granted.

[fragileprophet]

Thank you...thank you so much.

[It's hard to say that it's quite relief he's feeling, but it's about as close as he can get to it, given the situation. He smiles.]

I don't think that anyone has noticed it because of the situation...but you really are kind.

[themodsgrimm]

[ . . . hm.

Dragon just seems to consider for a moment and speaks softly.]

This is not a place for kindness.

But regardless, I hope you do well and find what you seek.