nine ✤ text

[lingeringhope]

You may have noticed some abnormal behavior regarding the Door. Normally it doesn't bring in anything so large, and we did not expect it to do so this time. Delight and I have been attempting to alter the Door to send you home, as you have so often requested, but as I have said again and again, we have very little knowledge in this area. We will try again.

My appreciation for those who slew the dragons. We did not intend on their arrival, and I would be willing to grant you a favor in return for your efforts - if it's within my power, and not too foolish.

Comments

[text]

[lingeringhope]

No. Never.

[text]

[thirdreturned]

I don't approve of what Fear did. Opening the Door was a rash gamble, but it resulted in a viable population. It is now advantageous for us to keep it open, and to intentionally return everyone who feels homesick would be letting our emotions get the better of us.

I imagine you feel pulled in two separate directions and I do not envy your or Delight's positions on the matter. However, I'd ask that you consider what happened the last time we lost a population.

[text]

[lingeringhope]

Some of them want to stay. Surely it should be possible to let some of them go, too.

My first priority is us. But I must try to look out for them as well.

[text]

[thirdreturned]

And you are doing a good job of that. You know I will support you in that regard.

But I will only do so while they remain here, where we need them.

[text]

[lingeringhope]

They'll only hate us more if we never try to send them home.

[text]

[thirdreturned]

Let them hate.

When the time comes, we can consider it. That time is not now.

[text]

[lingeringhope]

I want to try just a bit more. I won't ask for your help.

[text]

[thirdreturned]

You're too compassionate.

Be careful.

[text]

[lingeringhope]

I will be.