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You want Richard to know that it's fine to admit to liking you— as you are highly likable, and in fact most people (eg. Gil) like you, and if he wants to compliment your outfits, too, you're sure that would be societally acceptable. As they are very nice, fashionable outfits, with pockets. You also want him to know that if he's confused about his feelings, then he ought to join the club, because you've been confused about him for at least six months and probably three years. Also, you think it would probably be easier on him if he just gave in and liked you, even if it isn't real, because it'll surely turn real soon enough. So if he wants to go ahead...
"I see 'subtlety' remains absent from your vocabulary." Richard is leaning stiffly against a tree some ways ahead. "This has ceased to be amusing."
Well, it wasn't supposed to be, so—
"You have clearly obtained some twisted sense of what is appropriate for me to discuss. And why? Because I briefly indulged your sensibilities? Serves me right, I suppose." He's fidgeting with his wristwatch. "I thought giving you what you asked for would make you shut up about it, but I was mistaken. No longer."
Oh, what a load of <span class="mu-i">gull.</span> He expects you to believe he was faking the whole past hour-something? Is he going to say that risking the wrath of the Grand High Snake Elders (or whatever) was all part of his master plan, too? No. No, he's done this too many times. What he's doing is dodging your <span class="mu-i">valid</span> ideas because they make him a bit uncomfortable.
You don't expect Richard to look you unblinkingly in the eyes, but he does. His expression is chilly. You glower back at him until he shuts his eyes, breathes deeply, shudders (involuntarily?), and vanishes.
"Hey!" you say. "How is that fair? Huh? You can't just—"
«It is obvious that I can.»
Oh, great.
«I appreciate your warm welcome back.»
«I would of course expect nothing less of you.»
Okay. Does Snake Richard like you? He's draped lazily over an overhanging tree branch.
«Firstly, I have complete recollection of the fact you asked that not five minutes ago.»
«Secondly, that question is prohibited.»
«Thirdly, I do not 'like.' You are not exempt.»
You don't know what else you expected, honestly.
-
The rest of the way back to your tent goes much faster, as you discover your conversation options have narrowed considerably. Which you guess was the point. You wonder how Snake Richard feels about being a living escape hatch, think about asking, and then realize he can't possibly have an opinion.
He's still remarkably subdued compared to usual, though, but you're not sure if that's from your threats or lingering influence or a lack of ideas. (You're only walking, after all.) You don't remark on it, because that's guaranteed to rouse him. Someday you won't have to worry about that, you swear to yourself. Someday.
(2/3?)
