For lastvoyages: nineteenth vision [video]

[can_has_vodka]

 Pub's back open, if anyone needs anything.

[Generous Friends Filter]
Everyone all right, then? I've invented a few new drinks if anyone feels like sampling.

[private to House]
Right. Well, you've had more than enough time to get settled. And now that you're in need of both work and a new dispensation method for your medicine, it is time we talked.

Comments

[can_has_vodka]

But even if you choose to isolate yourself socially, you still have the people you need in order to pursue your calling. Coworkers, subordinates, patients. I'm willing to take my risks with you no matter what you decide, but they should not have to.

Honestly, that's the best start. I've had some thoughts to next steps, like getting you a guitar and perhaps a place to play it. Have a look outside that shell of yours.

[huge_egomd]

[Why oh why must he be held responsible for the well-being of others? He's incapable of seeing to his own safety.

But fine, okay, he knows he needs to stop messing up everyone else's life just 'cause his is so pathetic.

And a guitar would definitely be nice.]

I know what's outside. Why do you think I made that shell to begin with?

[can_has_vodka]

I know what's outside too. For that matter, you don't know the worst of it. You've never been chased down by tanks, for example.

Look. I don't expect you to turn into Joe fucking Extrovert. A lot of people aren't worth the emotional risk of connecting with them on more than a superficial level. But you can have a few friends. A bit of empathy. It doesn't have to be a catastrophic thing.

Some of my clanmates do various things to disconnect from the rest of the group mind for long spans. They're the introverts. That's just how they are. But even they reconnect a little now and again, in their own ways.

[huge_egomd]

[He wants to point out he had friends back home. A few friends...maybe two. But given how well that's gone for him, he desists.]

It'll all end in tears. [Well, it will. He just doesn't know if they'll be his, yours, or someone else's.] And you do realize the pool of potential friends is somewhat...tainted. [Come on, the barge is full of psychopaths and killers. And psychopathic killers.] I can barely control my own anti-social urges. Do you really think making friends with the freaks on this ship is going to help me?

[can_has_vodka]

I'll take that risk. Bet a number of others would too--the sort of people who don't actually suck.

[A pause. It's a good point.]

Yes and no. There's actually a great mix in this place. It is true, some people you cannot trust and I wouldn't ever push them at you. Some people around here need to be teleported out over a lake. Several times.

We need to find a use for those urges, Doctor. Outlet, something fun and wicked without being too damaging. You'd be one Hell of a satirist, for example.