"He's in." Your comrade exclaims triumphantly, passing you in the hallway. You nod and head for the makeshift prison, which is just a dingy room the resistance set up with wooden planks, leaving a few openings to see inside and pass food trays across.

You exhale at the sight of the Condesce's First Mate, sitting on the ground in his primly clothes and his stupid fucking cape. His long black hair, usually tied up in a bun, is loose over his shoulders, and a long violet dyed streak falls on his face.

He looks up at you with hatred, glaring from behind his hipster glasses. As much as you want to reciprocate, you need to get him on your side. Slowly, like you're approaching a skittish animal, you walk up to the bars and sit on the floor, to be at eye-level with him. “I’m sorry we had to do this.” You start, but he immediately interrupts you. “Oh, spare me!” He rolls his eyes dramatically, making his earrings jingle. “You think you can just waltz in here and have me show my belly, out of what? The gratitude of not having been killed on the spot? Oh, thank you, oh great and merciful one!” He mocks sarcastically. “I have no intention of talking to the likes of you, human.” He spits out the word with venom.

Deep breaths. Of course it was never gonna be easy. “I understand.” You reply. “I’m not here to pretend I want to be your friend so we can frolic in the woods and skip in a flower field. You’re a prisoner here.” You pause, for dramatic effect. “And we definitely don’t trust you enough to release you back as a spy. So I hope you enjoy your stay, Eridan.” He stays silent. But he seems to appreciate your honesty. Of course, the goal is to get him on your side so you can really get into the closest circle of the Condesce, but he doesn’t look ready to be collaborative yet.

“We’re not animals, by the way. Ask and you shall receive. Within our means, of course.” You add. “I’m gonna go get your lunch, Eridan. Work on your attitude in the meantime.” You stand up and walk out, praying this gamble will work out.