Conflict of Interest

A dark movie theater, lit only by the colorful animation on display. Every seat empty, save one: a mere silhouette in the darkness, situated near the middle. As he watches the film in silence, a heavy metal groan arises near the screen. One of the exit doors, out of which comes a voice.

?: Are you in here?

Yes. Please, join me.

The newcomer enters. He makes his way toward the center, shuffling his way through the seats before sitting in the one beside the other occupant.

?: So... another Madoka binge, eh?

Even after all these years, I just cannot help revisiting it.

?: It definitely leaves an impression. Especially with that music.

Quite so….

You are aware that I've been to see them.

?: Yeah; I felt it.

They carry much of your spirit. Squishy especially. But that's no surprise, given what he is.

?: Yessir. Annoying at times, but I still love the little sackboy.

It's quite the accomplishment how far you have carried them. Twelve whole trilogies. Of varying quality, but still laudable on output alone.

?: Yep. Even I'm surprised how far it's gotten.

And produced in such relatively short time. It's truly commendable, on top of remarkable…

?: I know what you're getting at, and it's not going to happen.

Don't get me wrong. What you have as is outdoes every one of your previous works.

?: Yeah, but it's still not finished. And there are still some ideas I want to explore before I'm fully done. You know this.

Yes, but there are so many other, more original endeavors you could pursue. It does you no good to be mired in one project for so long. An artist needs to refresh themselves, lest they risk becoming stale.

?: No offense, but how long I choose to work on them has no bearing on me keeping "fresh" for your sake. (Getting up) Besides, we agreed that you would let me continue for however long I please.

And I have been true to my word for the last several trilogies, however—

?: However, you're going to keep honoring that agreement by staying out of my business until I say it's finished. That's the bottom line, so will you just drop it already?

...You forget your place.

?: Huh?

It's by my permission you indulge in such frivolity, yet you bark orders at me as though you have any say in matters. Time has made you flippant; borne in you an arrogance I will not tolerate, especially not after I've been cordial on the matter.

?: So, what? You're going to shut me out again?

That appears to be the course you have decided for yourself. Although there will be no "do-overs" in this instance.

?: Is that right? Well, don't expect me to lie there and take it. If you really want this to end, then you're going to have to deal

Silence in the cinema. Only the flashing screen, the empty seats, and the sole watcher. No further disturbance. No middling objections. The enjoyment of solitude, resumed.

Far simpler…