#ask ryder

"Oh, still a 10. Why would I choose to sleep on the couch when I can cuddle up in bed?" Ryder asked.

“Hmm. That would be fitting, wouldn’t it? If you have examples of your work or if you can refer me to those who recite other sagas you’ve composed, I shall consider it.” Ryder doesn’t smile, but he seems pleased by this offer.

“Mountains. I deeply despise some of the creatures that dwell in the depths of the ocean,” Ryder answers succinctly.

“Hell is their birthright. Heaven… I am not certain what would be gained through conquest there, or if it could even persist if you conquered it. I would need to conduct research before determining the feasibility of such an action, especially to the consequences of ruling earth, Heaven, and Hell. Hell and Heaven are like the duality of nature, opposites, and if united in purpose, may cease to operate as intended thus causing problems.” Ryder taps a finger on the arm of his chair. “Ambition is all well and good, but without thought is meaningless.”

“Much more to my tastes,” Ryder agrees.

“A dark heart? Holy? I do not fear their god nor their power. And there’s not to purify; I am not some cackling villain who needs a speech to acknowledge that I’ve been led astray. I was set on this path and have embraced my destiny.” Ryder waves his hand dismissively. “What utter nonsense.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Ryder stares calmly out, head tilting to the side. “If you must sacrifice part of your vision then you are clearly not strong enough to be reaching for it in the first place. And Gabriel is my equal in power.” One side of his mouth curls up. “I wouldn’t advise trying to force either of our hands. That would end poorly for you.”

Ryder’s lip curls up. “A cod would have had more luck clapping than that fool defeating aught on his own merit.” He sniffs. “I may have had a hand in some of his merits; occasionally men with a thirst for killing are of use when deployed by the right hands.”