[there's still a lot to do, though he's been putting in the work enough he feels confident they'll have all they need well before the date. still it is something to put a proper pin on the calendar, and he chases away the more unpleasant possibilities. dying on the table, surviving but it still not working, some mad turn forcing them to give up yet another avenue the way remina did.

he rests his head against pal's. best to move relentlessly forward, though maybe more carefully this time.] I guess I'll ask Allen if we can stay here again.

[viktor makes sure to sigh with all the exhaustion of having to hear the words manifestering here, in front of his salad.] I take it back, the charm is all an illusion I conjured to spare myself the truth, that I bound myself to a man who likes puns.

[he's not smiling, you are. anyway this time he gets a scoff.] Yes. The rare times we've been out I noticed it. They're all under whatever unpleasant spell the Reckoning brings but I only have so much patience.