2nd - Video

[circumsutus]

[The camera focuses on five little patchwork mice in a cage. It remains focused on them as Stein tries to pick up a little extra cash.]

Pet mice for sale to a good home. Friendly, healthy, and neutered. Five dollars each.

Comments

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[circumsutus]

Does the bird have a name?

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[He stares ahead, very slowly regaining his composure. For a second it looks like he won't answer at all, but then he finally mutters:]

Raven.

[Most anti-climatic name ever, right?]

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Really? That's anticlimactic.

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--I wasn't the one who named him!

[So offended?!]

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Oh? Does he mind his name?

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[Deadpan:]

If he does, he never mentioned it to me. He never says much of anything.

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Well, that's better than being bullied by him.

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He's sort of done that before too...

[Not gonna lie.]

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Did he?

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In his way.

[He lets himself relax, finally, and shakes his head.]

It's not important.

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[Reactions are always interesting, even if Stein doesn't really like mindgames.]

Did he stop?

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[Then he's clearly met his new bff. All the reactions, too weak to play mindgames.]

What does something like that matter? Raven is...

[He frowns, slightly.]

...the power that I've gained for my own reasons.

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Oh, is that so?

[Power gained for own reasons. That's always dangerous.]

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[No other reason, in Gil's opinion. Or rather, none that he wants to elaborate on.]

Like I said, it doesn't matter. [Hesitation.]

Thank you for bringing the mouse to me, but I need to get back to work.

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Of course.

I'm sure I'll see you again soon.

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[Hopefully not too soon

is what he thinks and does not say.

Because man, this conversation is a little too creepy for his tastes. Even after learning what sorts of strange abilities people in other worlds have, it rarely gets easier to experience.]

Mm. Thanks again.

[His little brother had been appreciate all the trouble he's gone through for this mouse!]

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[And he waves, then walks out.

Don't worry, Gilbert. He'll be watching.]

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[That's what he's afraid of...]