First ☂ Voice

[thirdreturned]

Hm.

[Sorrow's voice is slow and stern, easily authoritative without any pretense or false airs.]

It would seem that Hope has gathered the energy necessary to bring me back. I'm told that our new guests have had a say in it- if that is the case, then you have my thanks.

[There's a thoughtful pause before he continues.]

As a token of my gratitude, I have created an garden of food to lessen your burden on Hope. Both parties will benefit from its creation, and so I trust that it will be tended with respect.

It will grow as the week goes on and I return to my former strength. Do let me know if anything disagrees with your systems and I'll remove it.

Comments

[voice]

[thirdreturned]

That is not my desired outcome at the moment.

[Simply, as if that's all there is to it.]

As much as it would be easier for all of us if they worked together, Fear's lack of cooperation suits my needs, as does Hope's stubborn desire to protect you.

[voice]

[circumitus]

Because the result of those two forces clashing with one another tends to produce more sorrow?

[voice]

[thirdreturned]

More or less. I need you alive to continue to fuel us, and Hope cares strongly about keeping you that way. I need you frightened and suitably traumatized to continue gaining strength, and Fear excels at that.

[It might sound cold, but- well, it is. He's just being pragmatic about it.]

Their conflict forces them to make plays more often than they would otherwise. All of that is beneficial to me.

[voice]

[circumitus]

Then it would make sense why you choose a more objective stance in all of this.

[Of course. Why should she have expected any different?]

Honestly, am surprised that Hope managed to make it this long.

[voice]

[thirdreturned]

He's more hardy than he's given credit for.

[Quietly.]

I suppose he's had to be.