002. Voice.

[enigmaestro]

[There's an idleness in his tone, something hinging between cruel amusement and an even more subtle, repressed frustration.]

The reverse of sun, spoken in stutter.

Too literal?

How about this: take it from another and you'll be the poorer for it.

Any takers? I imagine not, I'm always my own greatest company when it comes to these things. Loss, of course. Loss. We've all suffered it -- some more than others naturally, and how lucky for them. But especially here, especially in this world, loss seems more profound wouldn't you say? Especially where people are concerned. And yes, I am anticipating most would consider that their greatest loss. People.

Comments

voice;

[awakenings]

Or you know the answer's going to anger me and you'd rather withhold it. Not a bad decision.

voice;

[enigmaestro]

It's actually quite flattering, to see you approve of my tactics.

voice;

[awakenings]

It keeps you ahead of the game. I can't fault that, even if it could come back to bite me in the ass later.

[It's not like she doesn't do the same on occasion.]

voice;

[enigmaestro]

I wonder, is it because you enjoy the risk? The inherent challenge?

Is it rude of me to ask?

voice;

[awakenings]

Life isn't without risk, you know.

[That's a 'yes' to the first set of questions.]

...And why bother asking if it's rude if you're going to ask anyway?

voice;

[enigmaestro]

I enjoy the facade of manners, it's only polite to at least feign civility, isn't it?

But yes, concerning risk, I think I must agree.

voice;

[awakenings]

But you can't practice it?

[Another smile.]

Why does that not surprise me?

voice;

[enigmaestro]

If practice makes perfect, I'll leave this one open-ended. After all, I need something to improve upon, don't I? This, well, this I can settle for.

Does it not? Perhaps because you are a thinking individual.

voice;

[awakenings]

Clearly you need something.

And that's why you like to push people's buttons. You like the danger.