[That gets him for a second, and he is honestly ready to give what Balthus needs -- but as soon as he makes it clear it's a joke, Ashe does laugh, giving him a playful nudge.]
Of course. Stay as long as you'd like! I know the Professor wouldn't mind.
And thank you for trusting me with what you wanted to share. It means a lot.
Now, now, don't fall over backwards thanking me or anything, and I DON'T need anything in return! I just saw it and it reminded me of you, so you're getting it, OK?
Eh, I could give or take it. When I'm all scaly I REALLY don't like it, though; there's something about being a Ruby that hates getting wet, and being surrounded by water is even worse. Those kinds of creatures aren't made for the water.
But overall I don't really mind it. Had a guy hold my head under once, I wasn't too fond of that. But like I said, give or take.
Oh I just mean what he was doing that for I'm sure you dealt with him just fine.
All right! Sounds good. I'll probably need your help with this lotion though. It's supposed to help protect against the sun so I don't get burned by it.
Ohhhhhh, I see what you mean. It was one of the guys after the bounty on my head...I think. Either that or one of the guys my bitch of a stepmother sent to kill me. After a while you kind of stop paying attention to the particulars, you know?
Hmmm. Fancy house, fancy lotion, fancy sweater. You're really living the high life, aren't you, pal?
[Connor arrives at the promised time (on the minute, actually) and knocks on Ashe's door expectantly. He's excited to see some animals, but it's also a great chance to get to know the other man better.]
[In retrospect, he should have figured that Connor would be so precise on his timing. Still, he's happy to have a chance to better understand the android! So, he opens the door and offers a big smile.
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