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[enthraller]

[This is a fairly new face on the network. A very pretty one. One could be forgiven for mistaking him for a girl before he speaks – and even after that, your milage may vary. He holds the tablet with the awkwardness of someone unfamiliar with this kind of technology, but his smile is perfectly pleasant.]

Hello. For those I haven't had the opportunity to meet yet, my name is Saralegui. I find myself in need of...advice, I suppose. On how I might support myself while here. I don't want to portray myself as completely helpless, but my experience and skillset don't seem very applicable to basic self-sufficiency.

[His smile goes a bit self-deprecating and he shrugs.]

That said, if there's ever a need for a politician, I'd be happy to volunteer.

Comments

[enthraller]

[A laugh, unflinching.]

And yet they can evidently discomfort even a dragon. Perhaps a compliment can be more potent than you give it credit for. And they're sure to continue coming when one is easy to compliment, so isn't it better to learn how to defend yourself against them?

[nilhilistic]

[ another snort. ]

What defense is required beyond dismissal? I do not take compliments to heart.

[enthraller]

You could let them empower you. Parry instead of defend. Turn it around and use it to your advantage.

[He isn't shy about touching, running his hand over the scales and marveling at the feeling of it. He's never seen anything like it.]

[nilhilistic]

And what advantage is there?

[enthraller]

You know better than to fall victim to flattery. So what can you take from a compliment when that's not a risk? If it's sincere, then you can take sincere pleasure in it. And if it's said with ulterior motives, then you know they want something from you, and you can take advantage of that.

[nilhilistic]

[ the dragon eyes him through slitted eyes. ]

I no longer play those games with humans.

[enthraller]

[He meets that stare fearlessly, still smiling.]

I'm only half human, as it turns out. Does that still count?

[It's actually the first time he's said that to anyone. It's a pretty fresh revelation.]

[nilhilistic]

[ in a dry voice. ]

I had a feeling. And what games do you intend to play?

[enthraller]

[ yeah he does give off a Vibe huh ]

As I said, no games. Not with you, at least.

[nilhilistic]

[ should he flattered? he's not sure. he's too new in a place like this not to be on his guard. he didn't come so far only to falter now. ]

What is it you want then?

[enthraller]

Right now? This is all I wanted. I appreciate the chance to see something like this.

[He gives the dragon a bright smile, patting the scales.]

But if you mean long-term, I want the same thing as you.

[nilhilistic]

[ the dragon eyes him surreptitiously. ]

I suppose in that we are aligned.

[enthraller]

...But if you're open to more in this moment, I would like to see what it's like to fly.

[He says it lightly, not insincere but without pressure. It's not as if he'll die if rejected, but...can you really say no to this face?]

[nilhilistic]

[ rafal growls. ]

Don't push your luck.

[enthraller]

[That draws a laugh out of him and he shrugs.]

Can you blame me for trying?

[nilhilistic]

No. But that is not a request I will honour.