scythegun | week 6; tuesday

[ Duke has been a hermit all Tuesday. He is glad they have literally bathrooms and whatever else in their rooms so he doesn't have to leave at all. Although it is not exactly the most fun thing because there is no place to walk in nature...

He supposed having something like that in here was too much to ask.

Duke quickly hurries to the door, when he hears Yeager's knocking, but his voice is what actually makes him open the door. ]

...Hello, Yeager.

[ As always he looks around to see if anyone odd is lingering before stepping to the side to allow him in. ]

[Oh don't worry, it's just Yeager. When he enters he's still smiling, but he's looking Duke over carefully. Is Duke alright? He's probably not injured, but is he at least looking like he's doing okay?]

Duke, how have you been today?

[ Duke looks ... well, he's alive. It's probably only incredibly noticeable he somehow looks relieved to see it's only Yeager.

His clothing is probably different in the sense that he's currently in some sort of hotel-given PJs. He didn't bother to dress himself for going outside of his room because he wasn't going to.

He certainly looks better than he appeared on Sunday, and he's functioning better than he was on Monday. So okay enough. ]

I have been doing... alright.

[ He goes to grab a notebook he has on his wardrobe. There has been something he wished to discuss with Yeager and now he is in a sort of frame of mind to do it. ]

I am glad you came. I assume you have some time to... speak about some matters?

Edited 2017-01-04 01:54 (UTC)

[Oh, that's interesting. Not the pajamas (though that's kind of cute) but the notebook. Yeager tips his head a bit and rests his hand against his chin as he considers what could be in it.]

Ja, I do. I always have time for you! What do you want to discuss?

I am just wondering... what you may think about our situation with the gunners.

[ Duke is not great at the whole writing notes things.

He comes closer to Yeager and holds up a piece of paper written on it. "Yuri" and "Yukino".

And a silent question already written out. Do you know about their goals already? That there is a completely different group backing them? ]

[Yeager fishes a pen and paper out of his pocket (he's prepared as usual, of course) and quickly jots down his response.]

I know about all of this, though I don't know much more than that. I do want to believe they have our best interests in mind, but I'm not the sort of person who trusts easily.

[He does want to trust Yuri and Yukino; he likes them both, after all. But he's not sure how he feels about the whole situation.]

[ He'll nod. He'll write down his own responses. ]

I am ... wary of this other organization. I believe they have the capability to do as they have informed Yukino and Yuri. However, I am unsure if they will uphold their end of the bargain, so to speak.

[ Duke's trust has always been a thing that hasn't exactly come easy, and he happens to have little trust in organizations. If they had a way of ensuring that things happened the way said organization would, then maybe it would be a different story. But, even then... ]

[A brief nod before Yeager writes back.]

I believe it's wise to be wary of them. We don't know anything about them or what they're getting out of this. I don't believe it's a good idea to worry Yuri and Yukino too much; I'm sure Yuri's keeping this in mind at the very least.

Ending the experiment needs to be our number one priority. We can deal with everything that comes after later. I'm still not sure how to end it, however.

Yes, that is true.

I have thought of a few options for disrupting and ending the experiment. If they didn't have such express control over our bodies, it'll be easier to rebel.

The only current way I see that would speed up the experiment ending would likely be more people being dead. Not that I would exactly advocate for something like that.

[ ... Because he was already there with Tarquaron and all that. ]

It's not the best idea and I can't say that I support it either. We'll continue thinking and maybe we'll come up with something.

[But for now he certainly doesn't have any other ideas. What a mess. Usually he's quicker to come up with something but trying to play it safe hasn't been very good for brainstorming. He does better when he's allowed to be rash and stupid.]

[ Duke is still thinking upon some ideas, because really, he is hoping they manage to find a loophole somewhere. But he is also...unused to brainstorming in general. But, he'll try. ]

Added onto the list of not-so-ideal options in an attempt to put an end to this nonsense, may be some sort of patrol come sometime on a Thursday, as that is when violent actions relating to the "experiment" come into play.

As much as I would prefer to avoid death, I'm not sure how effective a patrol would be. It's cruel to say it, but if death will put an end to this...

Well, for right now let's not try to put any changes into place and see if we can come up with something.

[Yeager sighs and folds up the paper and pockets that and the pen.]

I'm sure this is going to look incredibly suspicious, but thankfully we don't have to worry about camera footage anymore!

Very well.

[ That sounded reasonable to him... and it was probably less risky at the moment. Reality can be cruel. ]

I suppose we have that to our advantage.

[ He's not sure what he should do with the paper now but he rips it up and tosses the pieces into the trash. ]

Ja, indeed.

[He absently reaches up to play with his bangs.]

Duke, are you sure you're doing okay? After all of... this.

[He can't imagine that Duke is really handling all of this well.]

...I don't know.

[ Duke is pretty bad with expressing how he feels, and deep down, maybe he knew he's probably lost something in the midst of this. But it was Yeager's question that brought the thought again to the surface. ]

I said, when you asked before that it was "alright". But it was likely because it was the only response I could think of.

I understand. Well, I suppose I can't say that I completely understand, but I can see why that would be your response. It sounds like it's difficult to deal with all of that.

[He's quiet for a moment, then shakes his head.]

I'll be blunt with you, Duke. I'm very glad you lived, even if that means that an innocent man had to die. I understand why you acted the way you did, and frankly, I'm glad you chose Conchita. I'm pleased you and several of the others who were afflicted with the poison are fine.

I'm not a kind person and I know how terrible those thoughts are. But you aren't like me. If you're feeling bad about any part of this, I don't mind listening to you.

[ Sometimes being blunt and honest were a good thing. He takes Yeager's sincerity as something to be grateful for, even if he knew what he did was not exactly right. It is a bit ironic, since originally he had been checking in on Yeager, but now their positions were reversed. ]

... If you weren't present during that aftermath, I am sure I would have...I--

[ His words died off quickly, because he was not sure what he's supposed to talk about first. What someone is supposed to say when they are the ones explaining themselves like this regarding this particular situation in the sense of their feelings. He feels hesitant in speaking about this (perhaps a little fearful), but if there's anyone he could do it with, it'd be Yeager. ]

I am not sure where I should begin. I've never been one for betrayal or subterfuge, until I suppose the moment I decided I was and it is... It was immensely difficult, especially when we had just said that very night how much we trusted each other...

Oh, don't get me wrong, I am a little peeved at the timing of the whole thing! But I understand why you did it. Honestly, had I been poisoned, I would have considered killing someone that night as well.

[But because he wasn't he was simply content in the knowledge that someone would kill, because why wouldn't they? It seems everyone else was relying on that as well and only Duke actually went through with it.]

Killing someone and covering it up is something my guild does well. Betrayal and subterfuge might as well be my middle and last names! But I won't do anything like that to you, Duke, because I'm actually attempting to put my priorities in order for once. There isn't a motive they can give us that I would act on, I can promise you that.

I can't speak for the others, of course, but I believe they do understand in some way. They may be furious now, especially since Leo died, but you did save their lives as well. I'm very glad you're still with us and I'll do what I can to look out for you. You're... You're my friend, ja?

[There's a brief moment of hesitation before he pushes through with that statement. It sounds so stupid just saying it aloud like that. Is there any way to say that and make it sound like he's not a child, because honestly. It's also a bit more a question than he'd like; just because he considers Duke a friend doesn't mean that it's returned.]

[ The conclusion of how that may have played out if Duke hadn't done what he did oft did play in his mind...and he's listening closely, especially at the tail end there. His words do resonate with him, and then, there is the question that makes things shift.

Duke doesn't think too hard about it when he reaches out for one of Yeager's hands, the memory still fresh in his mind when Yeager had done the same for him. ]

... Yes, we are friends.

So, even though you may be looking out for me, I will be doing the same for you, and I cannot imagine it being any other way. So, I... we'll always -- I'll always be here for you. You have already done so much for me already.

[ He doesn't want Yeager to not think they're friends, because Duke certainly does consider Yeager to be one, and that is probably also why he stumbled over his words some. ]

[He takes Duke's hand without hesitation, even if this is still a little strange for him. It's nice, though, and certainly more reassuring than just words alone.

Though really, Duke's doing a good job of that anyway. It's a little odd to hear him stumble over his words.]

"Always" means you won't put your life on the line again, ja? Don't disappoint me, Duke!

[It's light-hearted, but his smile is genuine for once and he actually looks really happy with Duke's words.]

I look after my own; I always have and I always will. You can count on that.

[ Duke acknowledges that there was a light-heartedness in there. Not to mention, it may be the fact that the man looked really happy that his own lips turn up into a small smile of his own. Honestly, it may also be that he can't help but be happy at hearing what Yeager had to say himself.

... He also thinks that they need a small happy moment like this. ]

Then, I will.

Good, I'm very pleased to hear it! Should you ever need my help - for anything - I won't hesitate to offer it.

[He squeezes Duke's hand once that's out there. Yeager really does mean everything he's said.]

[ Duke squeezes the hand in return, and feels lucky that he has Yeager by his side. ]

... I am grateful for everything you have done, Yeager, and know that once again, I will do the same for you.

[ ... ]

In addition, if you are bothered or troubled by anything that you feel comfortable to speak with me as well, I will also lend you my ear.

You would be my first pick if I need to talk about anything. Thank you.

[Not that he really wants to talk about any of his problems, because why would he?? He's better at trying to help other people with their problems, which is kind of sad because he never does that.]

...As strange as it sounds given this place, I'm very happy we've had time to get to know one another better.

Indeed. I never thought I'd have the chance to know more about your person.

You are not simply just "eccentric".

No, but that is a wonderful way to describe me!

[...]

I don't like letting other people know much about me. Even Gauche and Droite don't know very much. So consider yourself lucky!

[Well, that started serious and then took a sharp turn into obnoxious.]

... Perhaps it is a way to describe you, but not the best.

[ Yeager, sometimes he has a hard time telling when you are serious because of that... good job on that. ]

Hm.

In that case, since we rarely confide in others, it seems we are both the lucky parties.

[You are not the only one who has problems reading Yeager. Yeager has a hard time understanding what he's feeling and doing too, honestly.]

Ja, we are. It's a little odd to think that we never would have run into each other were it not for this place.

[He would have died without even realizing what he was doing to the people around him. He can only imagine how badly Droite and Gauche took that. It's a shame Duke hadn't met them, but maybe it's better that Yeager doesn't know exactly how badly they were hurt by his stupid, selfish actions.

His grip has tightened a bit on Duke's hand without him realizing it and Yeager laughs lightly when he notices. He forces himself to relax.]

I really am thankful to have a chance to get to know you! And... Well, I suppose in some twisted way... I'm thankful that I've gotten to have some distance from my situation back home. It doesn't really seem all that bad now that I'm looking back on it!

[...Okay, it's still shitty, but it's something he can work with. He's sure of that now. If only he'd been able to realize that earlier.]

[ It is a little sad that this situation is what even brought them close in the first place. Duke regards Yeager carefully, and he doesn't even flinch when the man's grip tightens on his hand. Without too much thought, his thumb briefly runs a bit against the hand that was tightly gripped. Maybe to help him keep being relaxed or to let him know that he wasn't bothered by it. ]

... It may be strange to say, but now it is difficult to imagine being unable to speak with you. So... I continue to remain grateful at every chance we have to do so.

[ Duke turns over the Yeager's words in his head, taking a pause in his own.

It has been awhile since he has spoken to anyone like this. Elucifer originally had such a privilege. ]

It would have been preferable if the circumstances themselves were not what they are now, but it seems we have managed to gain something... invaluable from this situation.

[Yeager glances down at their hands for a moment like he's just now realizing that they're still doing this. Is that weird? It's probably weird. He doesn't pull away though, because even if it is weird, it's comfortable. Comforting? Something like that.]

...Invaluable... Ja, that's a very good way to put it. And I certainly do know a thing or two about putting prices on things!

[Okay, look, it was an attempt at a joke that fell very flat, shut up.]

I certainly never wanted to be in a situation like this and it's not as though I would want you stuck here either but... it's... Well, I think it's good that this has happened. For me, at least. I was about to make a terrible mistake and now... I'm not sure what will happen at the end of all of this, but I'd like to think we'll escape this place - you and me, and Yuri can come along too, I guess... Oh, and I did promise one other person that they could come with me...

[Top Dollar. He means Top Dollar. He just can't say the name "Top Dollar" because it's too stupid.]

Anyway, the point is that we'd escape from this place and return home. I don't know how that would work given the times we were at, but I like to think that we'll all remember what happened here regardless of when we return. If I have a chance to make everything up to my daughters then I'll be fine.

[Hope isn't something Yeager usually feels. It's strange and kind of awkward, really.]

[ Duke helpfully doesn't say anything to the joke, but he probably briefly wore a fittingly flat expression for the joke that fell just as flat. ]

... I believe I may know who you are speaking of. I would like that as well.

[ He doesn't normally lend himself to that of optimism or hoping for much, as a general rule, but most of the time he's been here Duke has made the attempt, because he knew pessimism would bring him low.

Still, Duke knows he would like for Top Dollar to accompany them all as well (its crossed his mind before, anyway). There is the small thought that acknowledges the idea that if he hadn't been brought here, he may not have forged such strong bonds. ]

I would prefer that somehow we are able to return to the time I came from -- although, even if that is not possible then I am sure we will be able to do well enough despite it. I do not think I am asking for too much in the end...since at the crux of it all, I simply wish for us to return home alive, and I would like to believe that is possible as well.

I wouldn't mind that. I suppose it would be cruel to return to my daughters after dying on them, but I don't care when we return as long as we can. I have so much I want to do. It seems sort of silly to realize this after I was so convinced there was no point in continuing to live that life, but now... Well, I treasure it so much more than I ever could have imagined.

[His other hand strays to his chest. He still hates the blastia, but... It's one of the greatest gifts he's ever been given.]

Ah, it sounds silly to say it aloud!

[ He'll nod to the beginning of that statement...as long as they return together in one piece, everything should be fine. ]

... I do not believe it sounds particularly silly.

Just in case you wished to know.

Edited (wow return of the small text fail) 2017-01-07 01:47 (UTC)

You really are kind to me, ja?

[He manages to catch the genuine smile and turn it into the usual smirk.]

I appreciate it, more than I can really say!

...

[ Whatever expression Yeager may decide to settle on, Duke's own settles into a warm one nonetheless. ]

I am glad that you do. Even if it is quite easy being so towards you.

My, am I really that special~?

[It's a joke, of course he is!!!]

[ Duke will just be giving Yeager a long stare. ]

... Yeager.

[ He says it like how someone would probably be like 'Yeager, pls', except like Duke-ified (which sounds silly, but it is what it is!!) ]

[That gets him to laugh and hold up his free hand in surrender.]

And here I thought you liked my wonderful sense of humor!

... Occasionally.

[ Said in an actual lighthearted manner (as much as Duke can manage, anyway). ]

Your jest there required some work.

Ouch! Everyone's a critic!

[He seems pleased though, but eventually he settles a bit.]

Well, it is rather late so I suppose I should turn in for the night. I'll be by to check on you tomorrow!

[And every day this week, honestly. Just to make sure nothing happens to Duke.]

[ He'll nod, and then he almost moved, except he remembered he needed to let go of Yeager's hand first. So he did that quietly, and although his hands are gloved, he misses it a little...

Duke shakes off the feeling and will make his move to depart. ]

... Good night.

[It does feel kind of strange to let go...

Yeager holds up a hand in farewell and takes his leave. For right now, it seems like maybe everything will be okay.]

week 6; tuesday

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