91st moon [the 4th Wall of Jericho]

[paladinlost]

[Ah, it's that time of the year again. And unlike last time, Cecil wakes up in his own bed (even though he'd been on his way back from Saffron when he fell asleep), surrounded by his own Pokémon (and Grimers, but at this point they're almost part of the family), and with his own belongings exactly where he left them (except for his left sock, but he's long learned to expect that).

He's safe, he's in a good mood, and he intends to stay that way for the rest of this madness. And this time, he's even in a position to share the joy with any visitors!

Which is why he's now grilling all sorts of food on a fire pit in his yard, while his Pokémon are bringing chairs and large cushions outside. That they manage to do so while linked to each other with duct tape is somewhat impressive, but he's too busy not burning a steak to admire their efficiency.]

Comments

[dragoon_pride]

I'm glad at least someone is able to get along with him.

[paladinlost]

His students also adore him. They've even been fighting by our side, to assist him.

[dragoon_pride]

How impressive. It seems he's been accomplishing a great deal.

[paladinlost]

He has. Eblan is blessed to have him as its king.

[dragoon_pride]

That's a fortunate thing... the world does seem to be in good hands, overall...

[paladinlost]

We all do our best, and so will our heirs in turn someday.

[dragoon_pride]

Sometimes I fear our best may not always be enough.

[paladinlost]

...It will be. No other outcome is acceptable.

[dragoon_pride]

Ah, your sense of conviction... It's always been among your most admirable qualities.

[paladinlost]

It has to be. Should I ever waver, others might lose their own wills, or even their lives.

[dragoon_pride]

You truly do sound like someone worthy of ruling Baron right there.

[paladinlost]

I must do more than sound like it, to ensure its prosperity.

[dragoon_pride]

I have no doubt that you can back up those words of yours, Cecil.

[paladinlost]

If not, I'll go down doing my best, at the very least.

[dragoon_pride]

I would expect nothing else of you but your best.

[paladinlost]

I'd be insulted if you expected any less.

[dragoon_pride]

You know I would never have it be otherwise.

[paladinlost]

If you ever did, I'd greatly worry about your health and state of mind.

[dragoon_pride]

Well. It would hardly be the first time I was in the wrong state of mind...

[paladinlost]

But not in the same manner, and not without outside intervention.

[dragoon_pride]

No, I suppose you're right, there are some slight differences... Anyway, you have nothing of that nature to fear.

[paladinlost]

I'm glad for it, though not surprised.

[dragoon_pride]

I'll spare you any surprises this time, then.

[paladinlost]

Much appreciated. Surprises are only pleasant in moderation.

[dragoon_pride]

I fully understand that. I'm trying to do less surprising things these days.

[Surprise backstabs with a side of kidnapping and suddenly stealing crystals tend to be bad things]