..!

"I wish you the best of luck, your Majesty."

A formal bow.

I feel... a chill?

"It wouldn't hurt to show him you care, I think."

A slight shrug.

"In the end, it's your call."

"Do you know that for certain? Though I suppose it's possible that not even he knows..."

A pause.

"Have you heard the proverb, 'He who desires but acts not, breeds pestilence'? Your inaction could very well be seen by him as a lack of interest..."

"— speak to one another. Not one on one, at least."

"Good. I've found you," Zato said with the smallest hint of a smile— perhaps his attempt to seem friendly?

Stopping his approach once sufficiently close, the assassin placed his hand over his heart and bowed his head.

"My name is Zato=ONE... I don't believe we've ever had a chance to really—"

++

"Hm... Have you asked him what would make him happy?"

// She fits in so well. We need Virtue for Season 5...

Nodding... he's not sure what else to say at this point but doesn't want to dismiss the boy just yet, so he instead offers the other a very awkward pat on the head.

That 𝘪𝘴 what you're supposed to do to kids. He thinks.

// Was it Virtue?

"That is to say, the boy wants to know there is a place for him. Somewhere where he is loved unconditionally. Somewhere predictable and familiar, untouched by the constant change and surprise he is likely used to.

"If he feels he does not have this, he will go looking for it elsewhere..."

"Of course. In that case," he pauses, lifting a hand to his chin, "The boy likely wants attention and stability.

"I imagine his early years spent with Sol Badguy left much to be desired; a home, affection, a parent... a sense of normalcy, perhaps?"

++

"Ah, yes. Your relationship with Sin is... not ideal, is it?

"I can't say I have a reputation for having healthy relationships, but I do remember what it was like to be a child. Perhaps I could offer some insight that may help you understand the boy's feelings? Or maybe it won't. Who can say?"

How typical of the boy.

"It's good to see you taking responsibility by staying on top of things. I'm sure his Majesty appreciates it."

"Yes, I would agree. Though, with Ms. Dizzy's inclusion, wouldn't the young prince feel left out? Or is that not a concern..?"

"I am doing well, thank you. Have you been keeping up on your chores?"

// Method acting.

"Yes. I suppose that is true."

...

"You have been doing well, I trust?"

"Wonderful. Then, the next time I visit him, I will have a subordinate of mine deliver you some of his baking."

A polite bow.

"Your help is appreciated."

"As I wish the best for him, I would like to provide only the most constructive criticism, and... What I am saying is—would you mind 'lending' me your taste-buds so to speak, and assisting me in my evaluation of his products?"

"A good friend of mine has recently taken up baking as a hobby and has requested I give feedback where applicable. Unfortunately, my senses are still rather... dull, and I cannot very well taste whether something may be too salty or too sweet."

++

"Your offer is very kind, your majesty. However, I would rather not burden someone of your position with the personal issues of a dead man. Then again..."

A slight pause.

"Tell me, Sir King. How well are you able to taste?"

"Such enthusiasm. Is there a reason for it?"

"Do I? Well... I suppose there 𝘪𝘴 something that has been... weighing on my mind as of late."

'Staring' back.