In which The Master performs the standard mun-scolding voice check.

[gloriousalternative]

Miss Mundane, while it's only natural you assist me in spreading my influence as far as possible, I fear I don't understand how this will "help." I'm not a highly social man by choice, and I see no way in which this is a means to an end. And the notion that I am to be sent anywhere to "graduate" is an insult. I've been counted as one of the most brilliant-

I am in no way "in your head" to be unable to leave it, my dear. I've attempted, certainly, but you seem to have a frustrating resistance to hypnosis. You'll regret that stubbornness once I find a way around it.

I've been advised that the place you're considering taking me is in no way desirable. And that furthermore, you are in no position to give me the full attention and respect I deserve. I have no intention of being your pawn in this, Miss Mundane.

You will abandon this notion. You WILL obey ME.

...Blast it.

Comments

[iamthemaster]

To be more accurate, you have one best trick, for now. Though, you do get quite a collection. All in the name of living up to the chosen name, of course, Koschei.

[The Master doesn't often use that name, but it should spark some recognition in his younger counter part.]

[gloriousalternative]

[It does, and that sense of suspiciously controlled wrongness grows stronger. He meets the other man's eyes, cautious.]

Are we acquainted, sir? I'd entertain the more obvious explanations, but I don't make a habit of play at paradoxes with nothing to gain from them.

[iamthemaster]

[He chuckles darkly.]

There are no paradoxes in this place, but how disappointing, I would think that I would recognize myself.

[gloriousalternative]

[a faint sigh of exasperation] Well, naturally I had a sense of you, but circumstances being what they are -

[a beat as it settles in]

We survive, then. At least one regeneration longer.

[iamthemaster]

Obviously.

[He'll not mention the bit about becoming one of those despicable humans.]

[gloriousalternative]

There's really no need to be rude about it.

...At any rate, that's quite comforting. I'm sure you remember why.

[iamthemaster]

[He doesn't care about rudeness, considering all he's done to survive that long.]

Do I? I suppose it depends on when you are. Though, you being me, surviving is always better than the alternative.

[He chuckles lightly.]

The lengths we go through - actually quite impressive. How's the Doctor?