( well, of course. for the last few years it's basically been his job to fill the ears of both demons and humans with exactly what they want to hear, so he's moderately accustomed to something like this. peace of mind rarely has anything to do with reality, though, but it just goes to show how capable of a liar makoto can be when he decides to. if "blissful delusion" is really how abel wants to spend potentially his last days alive, who is he to blame or judge?

makoto smiles broadly, nodding his mute support of both abel's excited agreement and his assertions to how brilliant he is. the chances that this really is some elaborate hazing for an ultra-exclusive club are slim to none, but at least he recognizes the demon's brilliance.

whether or not he places much value in his personal space is at the very least not indicated when the man reaches out to clasp one of makoto's hands between his own. he doesn't seem the slightest bit perturbed, instead regarding abel with an almost beatific benevolence.

gratitude has always been an emotion that makoto can appreciate. you can usually extract information or favors from it in the future, if necessary. )

Certainly. ( he speaks with such placid ease that one would want to believe him. ) All of the others that couldn't handle this trial with grace, who spent their time fighting with the guards instead of waiting patiently... These are obviously the type they wouldn't want among their esteemed personage. So all we have to do is stay the course, and we will be rewarded for it in the end.

( it's a sweet lie, isn't it? humans love those dearly. )