[ it feels like it takes a long, long time for that message to come in.

Veldora, while happy-go-lucky and oblivious, is not stupid. he's always had a level of curiosity and intention to him, and now that he understands how much more interesting the mortal, menial world is, he's trying very hard to attune to its little nuances.

there's something here that he hasn't gotten the full picture for, but his proverbial ears are perked and he's listening for the footsteps in the hallway. ]

I'm willing to hear you out, my friend. Perhaps it's better to have a conversation in person?

[ on one hand, having to be face to face with someone when you're feeling an emotional high is some people's idea of a Hell Nightmare on Earth, but on the other hand... sometimes it's easier to tell the truth with your eyes. to let the tremor in your hand speak for you, to let someone else know that the weight of the world is on your shoulders through the hitch in your breath.

Rimuru had always wanted to believe he could come to an understanding with most anyone he met just by having an open, honest conversation with them--and Veldora's ready to carry on the legacy. ]

I trust you, Jun. Whatever you may be considering, I trust your intentions in my heart of hearts.

[ ... there's that story, too, about the man drowning in a flood who prayed to God for salvation, but turned away several boats because he knew God would save him in the end--only to drown anyways and find his way to Heaven. he asked the Almighty why He abandoned him in his time of need, only for God to ask 'who you thought sent the boats?'

a peach tree could be a boat with a little imagination, couldn't it? ]