[...It's almost strange, how much help he keeps... (asking?) receiving from these two now. It's a very sudden shift from not only before, but his usual MO of trading what he can learn with others, more a business transaction than a sign of any friendliness.]

...Then I suppose it's about time I actually earned it.

[All his attempts to combat this system so far have ended in failure. He's tempering his hopes now, realized that even if they play by the "rules," the "rules" still allow the adults to manipulate circumstances as they please.

But through his weariness, some of that petty spite reignites just enough. Just enough to keep him going. He will win this stupid game, one way or another.]

Before... Red. I promised him I'd speak with him on Monday. The real him, of course.