Audience: Luca Valentino

[probe]

Comments

[probe]

While I can't say I've read many books on magic, that's something we can agree on. I've always found it interesting to see what forms of science influence others.

[but ah.] You enjoy reading? [tell them more.]

[notaccurate]

Indeed. When I'm not working, it's one of my favorite hobbies. I was sure to get a bookshelf and fill it up as quickly as I could, as soon as I was an adult and living on my own.

[probe]

Mine as well, when there's time. [they seem like they might stop there, but then they continue curiously.] What are your favorites to read? Non-fiction only?

[notaccurate]

I have found a few bits of fiction I enjoy, but most fiction is...well.

[How does he explain it?]

I think I've read a few too many books of "a man goes on an adventure, saves the world, and gets the girl." Or "a girl grows to be a dutiable wife and marries a good man." A little more variety that isn't just "they all die or suffer horrible fates" would be nice.

[probe]

Perhaps you've been reading the wrong literature? [they sound amused, slightly.] It's never that simple anyway.

But what would qualify as a tolerable fate?

[notaccurate]

Maybe instead of falling in love and getting married, the male and female leads become good friends and stay as such for the rest of their days.

[probe]

And what about stories without that sort of friendship at all?

[notaccurate]

Those aren't very common, but I do appreciate them when I see them.

[He's Tired of heteronormativity, even if he doesn't know that word yet.]

[probe]

[...there's an inquisitive sort of noise.]

I'll have to browse my collection and see if I can find something you may like. [they've decided they tentatively respect luca enough for now.]

[notaccurate]

[Secret library loot yesssss]

Ah, well. I thank you for that consideration. Anything you lend me will be well cared for.

[He's being honest too, he's not one to abuse books.]

[probe]

[give them a moment before they reach into their cloak sleeve, procuring a copy of don quixote.]

For now, I can offer you this for your perusal.

[notaccurate]

[He takes the book and looks over the cover.]

'Don Qui- ki-kizho-' My, that last name is difficult.

[probe]

Quixote. [there's a smooth correction with the proper pronunciation.] It's Spanish. A story of an idealistic fool...but enjoyable.

[notaccurate]

Is that so? It might be just the thing I'm looking for then, especially if it comes recommended by another lover of literature. Thank you.

[probe]

Of course. [they lean back in their seat and make a grab for their teacup again.] I'd be interested in your thoughts once you've read it.

[notaccurate]

Of course. Shall I meet with you again in a few days?

[Probably more than a few days, because upcoming trial, but yes.]

[probe]

That will do, yes. [until someone inevitably dies but it's fine. no one needs to talk about that.] I'll try to make myself available.

[notaccurate]

I appreciate it.

[And since Greed seems like someone who doesn't want their time wasted, Luca will leave them be! He's taking the book to go read it.]