The Ninth Gambit

[alltheways]

[The Red Queen is not smiling. Her hands are folded in front of her, her expression serious, almost hard.]

My dear Real Things, I have a request.

[She raises a hand as though reaching out for the hand of another, appealing to anyone watching.]

It seems that my sister’s battle lust will not be satisfied without a fight. Despite my wishes otherwise, I must implore you to help me. However, I do not want to force you.

[And she could, one way or another, if she had to.]

I would like volunteers to assist me. But I must be honest: this time, I cannot guarantee your safety. This is not a challenge to take on lightly. As much as I abhor the idea, I may need you to fight for me.

[She folds her hands again, her expression saddened.]

I will do all that I can to protect you, whether you fight for me or not.

[Note: If you have volunteered your character, you can either respond here to ICly volunteer or handwave a conversation with the Red Queen about volunteering. Characters who were not OOCly volunteered within the allotted time frame can still respond to this post; just be aware that late volunteers will not be accepted.]

Comments

[jivitadana]

But why involve us? You could handle her on your own too, couldn't you?

[alltheways]

It is she who insists that things be done in this fashion.

[jivitadana]

Why do you have to go along with her?

[alltheways]

It is my duty to answer such challenges. I cannot let them go unaddressed.

[jivitadana]

And there's no way to talk her out of it? Doesn't she trust you?

[alltheways]

Of course she does not. She is not made to, it seems.

[jivitadana]

But doesn't that make you sad? She's your sister.

[alltheways]

[She pauses and glances downward.]

After so long, I would not use the word "sad."

[jivitadana]

What word would you use instead?

[alltheways]

"Resigned" perhaps.

[jivitadana]

As in that's just the way it is? Don't you wish it were different?

[alltheways]

Wishing it were different and it being so are far from the same thing. It is, perhaps, a waste of time to wish, when one can do.

And in this case, there is no "doing" about it.

[jivitadana]

So you're going with the flow because you think there's nothing you can do about it?

[alltheways]

You can put it that way, my dear. It isn't wrong.

[jivitadana]

But it's a little sad that you'd like to do something about it, but you can't.

[alltheways]

Yes, I would agree.

[jivitadana]

I hope someday you won't have to feel this way anymore.

[alltheways]

Thank you, dear Minato. I appreciate your kindness.

[jivitadana]

You're here just like we are. So you shouldn't have to be unhappy either.

[alltheways]

[She smiles at him.]

I will enjoy this cake.

[jivitadana]

I'll bring you something else next time. Thank you. [He promised.]

[alltheways]

We will talk again. Take care until then.