robopriest | RUFUS CATCH-ALL

Haros?

[That's a new word.]

Your species?

It doesn't matter. That's behind us now.

...Fine, fine.

[He's too tired to pry.]

Anyways, I'm glad people listened to reason. You're here in the land of the living. Isn't that nice?

Was it reason? They seemed uncertain until someone was cut down.

Well, with the help of people like myself, we were at least able to persuade people that you weren't some idiot who would take a nap at a place relating to the murder. So there's that.

. . . That was unnecessary.

What, us helping you?

I dislike being in debt.

...In debt?

[Oh. Oh my god.]

[He can't help it - he lets out a chuckle, before it goes into a full laugh. It feels strange to laugh, especially in the wake of tragedy, but he has to.]

In debt for an act of kindness? Rufus! Rufus, really, you surprise me with very conversation we have! Haha!

[Don't laugh.]

How is that surprising?

Because it just keeps showing me how much you're missing out on. You're like a kid.

[A very very very old kid, but a kid nevertheless.]

Anyways, enjoy what it feels like. Nobody who stuck up for you wants anything in return. Its not "debt", and never will be.

[His frown deepens. He's not a kid anymore.]

I find that hard to believe.

Well! Believe this. I offered my ever so kind words to stick up for you, and I want nothing back. Not a single dime, cent, or whatever. Its yours. That's that.

[Shrugs! What are you going to do about it!!]

[He stares, then closes his eyes and takes a long sip of water. It's clear that he doesn't really like the thought.]

I just want to make it clear that the world doesn't work purely on give and take.

[He tilts his head as he looks over at Rufus.]

How do you explain charity, Rufus?

[He's back to staring at the floor with the glass of water held below chest level.]

I know what it is.

[Continuing to prod:]

And what is it?

Voluntary relief.

And why would people provide voluntary relief?

Is that important?

I don't know. Do you think it is?

Not particularly.

I'm just here for some water.

Water that was provided to you by the local masked benefactors, most likely. Do you think you need to pay them back? You're probably incurring a debt right this very moment, hm?

We've been brought here to gather nova. Expenses incurred during that time can be charged to the requester.

So you're basically just thinking that you'll be handing them a big hefty bill at the end of this, huh?

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soulus - 2020-10-04 16:43 (UTC) - Expand

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robopriest - 2020-10-04 16:44 (UTC) - Expand