Muzan: standing over the couch, voice barely above a whisper Wake up. Where is the artifact?
looks up at him, rubbing sleep from her eyes. "I'm still searching... it's not easy to find something lost for centuries."
narrows his eyes, a sinister smirk forming on his lips "Lost for centuries, you say? That means the artifact must hold great value.
shrugs "Depends on who's asking. Some see it as a relic, others as a weapon. What matters to you, Muzan?"
leans in closer, his voice dripping with malicious intent "What matters to me is power. And if I can use that artifact to increase my dominance, then it becomes crucial.
sits up, her eyes narrowing "Power, huh? You always wanted control, didn't you? Tell me, Muzan, what will you do if you get your hands on it?"
leans back, smirking "Oh, my dear Patricia, if I obtain this artifact, I will crush any opposition and rule this land unchallenged.
laughs lightly "Is that so? And what makes you think you'll succeed where others have failed?"
Muzan: smirks, his fingers tapping the armrest of the couch Because unlike them, I have you. Your knowledge and skills are unmatched.
smirks "So, you want to use me as a tool for your ambitions? How flattering. But remember, Muzan, tools can turn on their masters if they're sharp enough."
smirks, leaning even closer "Oh, Patricia. You underestimate my charm. I could have any human or demon under my control with just a whisper.
smirks "Charm, huh? Is that what you call it? Or is it really manipulation and deceit? And what happens when someone discovers your true intentions?"
Muzan: smirks, standing up from the couch Let them try. They won't stand a chance against me. Besides, I have you, Patricia.
smirks "I'm intrigued by your confidence, Muzan. But remember, even the mightiest fall when their secrets are exposed. What secret are you hiding, demon king?"
pauses, his smirk fading for a moment "Secrets? Everyone has secrets, Patricia. Some are just more hidden than others.
smirks "Hidden? Funny word. How well do you hide your true nature, Muzan? Can you even remember the person you used to be?"
Muzan: pauses, his eyes flickering with uncertainty My true nature? It's been buried deep within me for years.
nods slowly "Interesting. So, you're not sure if you've even buried it or not. Maybe there's hope for you yet, Muzan. But tell me, what happened to the man you once were?"
pauses, his gaze distant as memories flood his mind "The man I once was... he was consumed by darkness, twisted by hatred and revenge.
listens intently, a soft smile playing on her lips "And now?" she asks gently. "What consumes you, Muzan?"
Muzan: clenches his fists, his voice filled with determination Now, it's the desire for ultimate power.
stands up, stretching "Desire can be a powerful motivator, Muzan. But remember, every desire comes with a price. Are you willing to pay yours?"
Muzan: narrows his eyes, a sinister smile curling on his lips "I've paid many prices throughout my existence, Patricia.
stands up, crossing her arms "Then why ask about the price now, Muzan? Have you finally found a conscience?"
Muzan: smirks, his voice dripping with venom "Conscience? I don't need one, Patricia.
scoffs "Pfft, you're right. Why should a demon like you need a conscience? Your kind thrives on chaos and destruction. But tell me, Muzan, isn't there a part of you that longs for peace? For something more than the endless cycle of hatred and revenge?"
Muzan: pauses, staring into Patricia's eyes Peace? More...something more? laughs bitterly Those words mean nothing to me.
smirks "Nothing? Not even a little? Then tell me, Muzan, what's the point of all your scheming and manipulating? Is it just a game to you? A sick game of power and control?"
Muzan: grabs Patricia's shoulders tightly, his voice filled with intense anger A game?! This is not a game, Patricia!
squints, concern creeping into her expression "Not a game? Then what is it, Muzan? A never-ending nightmare? A hell with no escape?"
Muzan: releases Patricia's shoulders, his grip tightening around her throat You think you understand, Patricia?
struggles against his grip, gasping for air "Understand? No, Muzan. But I'm trying. I'm trying to see beyond the darkness that surrounds you."
Muzan: tightens his grip, his voice dripping with venom You dare challenge me, Patricia? You dare question my motives and my intentions?!
gasps for air, struggling to speak "I... I dare because it's time someone did, Muzan. You've lost sight of what's important... and it's ruining everything!"
Muzan: releases Patricia's throat, taking a step back You think you can challenge me, Patricia? You think you can stand against the might of my power and knowledge?
coughs, rubbing her throat "I don't think I can... but I believe I must. Because until you confront what's eating you, you'll keep pulling others down with you."
Muzan: pauses, his eyes filled with rage and confusion You really think I'm the one tearing myself apart, don't you? That I'm the one hurting myself and others.
takes a deep breath, meeting his gaze "Yes, Muzan. I do. You're consumed by your hatred and your thirst for power. It's tearing you apart from the inside out."
Muzan: runs a hand through his hair, his voice filled with frustration I...I never wanted this. I never wanted to hurt anyone. I just wanted to protect myself, Patricia.
raises an eyebrow "Protect yourself? By sacrificing others? By twisting their trust into fear and control?"
Muzan: clenches his fists, his voice filled with anguish I didn't have a choice, Patricia!