-233- [Return from a Long Absence]

[impure_tale]

[The sound of happy barking in the background.]

It would seem that I took an unexpected leave of absence. My apologies to everyone I did not speak to beforehand, and it is my sincerest hopes that I did not give you a fright.

To the many new arrivals that have come in the time I have been gone: Welcome, and enjoy your stay.

To all others: Happy New Year? 

Comments

[impure_tale]

Why did you murder a boy?

[tentacruelest]

Lost me temper. His dog lept at me and his wench started screeching. And he had brittle bones.

[impure_tale]

You lost your temper, or you panicked? Are you all right?

[tentacruelest]

I lost my temper. The lad meant no harm.

[impure_tale]

How do you feel about that?

[tentacruelest]

...Embarrassed.

[Ashamed, he really means]

[impure_tale]

...I cannot pretend to be an expert in anger, captain, but have you any outlets for it other than the people you encounter in the halls? If you're embarrassed then you've sense enough to know it's a problem.

[tentacruelest]

I've no outlet.

I often...played th' organ to calm meself for a time, but that would require making it there in the first place. Besides which, William Bush has decided to eliminate all other furniture besides bed and bunk in my cabin as recompense for the boy's life.

[impure_tale]

[Mumbling] Oh that's not at all familiar...

[tentacruelest]

In a week's time I'll be granted it back.

What d'yeh mean, familiar?

[impure_tale]

Have you had any other misadventures since he did this?

[tentacruelest]

He dogs my steps t'make sure I don't step out of line. But I've not been given the opportunity to lose my temper again.

[impure_tale]

I have to wonder, then, if he should be grateful you are not as stubborn as you could be if you wished.

[tentacruelest]

I am stubborn; my warden, more so. I am at least swayed by bitterness and defeat.

[impure_tale]

A trait that I did not share with you at my worst, mon ami.

If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask.

[tentacruelest]

[Half jokingly, half bitterly]

A new disposition, more like. More patience.

[impure_tale]

Not so easily boxed and given away, but always an ear to listen if nothing else.

[tentacruelest]

I'm near shocked I haven't driven yeh away already enough as is.

[impure_tale]

I'm a difficult friend to lose permanently.

[tentacruelest]

What would cause me to be rid of yeh, marquis?

[impure_tale]

That's a very good question.

I have no idea.

[tentacruelest]

I could think of a fair few things that I wouldn't repeat here.

[impure_tale]

I'm certain you could, you wretched tease.

[tentacruelest]

Offer up no less than what's been given. That's always been the Dutchman's way.

[impure_tale]

You are referring to the Flying Dutchman, oui?