Era and Gauss

"I hate to say it, but Millennia was right." Era sighed. "We never should have done this."

"You say 'we' like either of us has a say in it." Gauss scoffed. "With all the changes Epact's made to the office, we're basically just kept around for show."

"We do at least have some influence over him." Era said. "Unfortunately, he's even more stubborn than his own pupil."

"You ever just think about...I don't know, maybe...taking the guy out of office by force?" Gauss scratched the back of his neck.

"A political assassination, is what you're suggesting." Era replied flatly.

"Not political, more like...eh, I guess it is political, but also I'm just sick of the guy." Gauss leaned his head back. "I mean, come on, it's his fault we're all stuck here in the first place. You know it, I know it, the public knows it, it's an open secret."

"You realize that even suggesting this counts as treason?" Era reminded him.

"Yeah, sure, but I trust you." Gauss shrugged. "We're stuck in this shit boat together, you know? I honestly don't think we'll ever manage to get what we need to start a revolt, but hey, a man can dream."

"About political assassinations?" Era raised an eyebrow.

"Sure, why not?" Gauss looked over at her. "What do you dream about, then?"

"Uh..."

''"Era, you shine more brightly than the stars our planet has forsaken since days long past." An imaginary Gauss whispered into Era's ear, holding her close to the warmth of his chest as their hearts beat together in a symphony of synchronization. "As though a thief in the night, you have stolen my hand, but more than that...you have stolen my heart."''

"Nothing, actually." Era coughed. "Nothing whatsoever."

"Huh. Sounds boring." Gauss looked back up at the ceiling.