No, that's...well, you can confirm that with Justice, I'm not sure. [A huff of laughter follows that.] So you've read up on all of the powers?

Thaaat may have just been because you're hers. Our power over this game is more effective for our own followers than for other people. But just like people, we all have our own traits and strategies that'll help us in the game, yeah.

Love knowing how to undo curses isn't that surprising either.

Just trust me? [It's one of those "I cannot say because of these goddamn rules" things, Ray.] Justice...is a really good kid. He'll be happy to find a loophole for you to that particular rule. That's all I'm saying.

Talking to him and giving him something to do is one of the best offerings you can give him. Kids close to his age to play with and spend time with. You don't have to offer much but just make sure you mean it instead of using him.

[Or Merriment will absolutely smite you, thanks.]

Oh I don't either. [Factually. Calmly. They examine the board in front of them instead.] Eager kid, great kid...but it's a lot of responsibility that I'm not sure he could handle.

[There's a snort though.] And I suppose you're gonna say you're closer to my age instead?

And yet you want to take a console out of this room...why? [Don't go play video games by yourself you weirdo.]

[Oh. That's a different story, and Merriment lifts an eyebrow behind their mask. There's some deep thinking going on there.]

Depends what you're looking for when it comes to him.

Wait what makes you think he knows how to not get Ruin to curse you?

Yeah, that adds up. [Merriment isn't so sure about approaching Ruin but you do you, kid.] Why a console though?

[Yes but also Senri's kind of a weenie, so. Anyway. A beat.]

Wait, wait, wait. [Merriment seems to realize something.] That's where my electronics have been going? I've been replenishing them for nothing!

[SIGH. There's also a grumble about Cunning being a giant brat, but whatever.]

Good luck with that guy. You might be able to get him to talk if he doesn't get cagey and weird.

Let me know how that goes. [A moment's pause, and then:] Checkmate.

[#godpowers]

Rematch next time? [There's also a bit of wariness in his tone, like he's thinking Ray might say no now that he's gotten his answer.]