CCCXXIX.

[dark_butler]

One might have cause to wonder whether I am affected or not

Comments

[banditfox]

Still as much a challenge to read as ever, but then I'm to understand that it hasn't been so very long since we spoke.

[dark_butler]

You do not perceive it that way?

[banditfox]

Thirty years, Walter. It's a long time when you measure by mortal standards.

[dark_butler]

Do you measure by mortal standards these days, Kurama?

[banditfox]

Out of habit and necessity. When people see a rough estimate of two thousand in the "age" bracket on a medical form, they tend to call the psychologist.

[dark_butler]

You must have managed to escape the City, in that case, as such an estimate would barely raise eyebrows here.

[banditfox]

I would ask how you've been, but I remember our last conversation well enough that I think I can hazard a guess.

[dark_butler]

If I understand your meaning, the answer is actually that I am perfectly fine. Tomorrow may bring a different answer, but for now, the things that troubled me have lesser weight.

[banditfox]

That's good to know. You concern me, sometimes.

[dark_butler]

Why is that?

[banditfox]

Because you're a friend.

[dark_butler]

You are always concerned for your friends?

[banditfox]

Even the ones I turn on, yes.

[dark_butler]

Does that imply that you will be turning on me?

[banditfox]

Don't be ridiculous. I don't have the strength, and even if I did, you've given me no cause.

[dark_butler]

I find it difficult to see that I ever would, unless you and I wanted the same thing that could not be shared.