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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 1, 2021 16:39:28 GMT -5
Tension seemed to rise —evidenced by Elena’s scowl worsening as Kujo began to think his own way through. While she was able to handle the man’s criticism to how she ran the place, having heard similar words before, there was something that Kujo was missing even then. Despite the fact that Jack was a primary target —thing everyone seemed to agree on—, there was no way to obtain the information they needed.
Not while Liz was aware of their current situation.
“You forgot one thing” Elena replied, with a tone of ice, “Regardless if we put that plan into motion, the attacks will get worse. Liz knows where we are —at the very least, the area we’re located in. I’ve known this for longer than you think I have.” “Why haven’t you done anything about it, then?” M’Lyn asked, stepping forward, scowling herself. “She has” Jake replied, looking down, “With that partner of hers —it’s the only reason they haven’t smoked us out yet.” “Say we do go along this plan you’re suggesting, Kujo” Elena continued, “Either you or M’Lyn guiding another unit to gather the information you’re after, with Alice as your Navigator. Can you expect them to follow your instructions, and your pace? When we’re all aware that we’re backed at a corner?” “…I don’t see why we shouldn’t try, though” Jake stood up, “It won’t matter, right? We get to have a chance of kicking that bitch’s ass after all she’s done.” “Yet she has more information on us that we have on her” the woman in blue scowled, “Don’t tell me you forgot.” “…” “Liz sold the shelter’s location — 2 years ago, after selling them out and stealing intel from our databases. Even if that location was the only one they secured, who’s to say they don’t know where this one is? With the Heartless running rampant, and her knowing our every move, do you really think we can keep this up?” “You’re the one refusing, though!” Lid shouted back, puffing her cheeks, “I agree with those two, y’know! We can’t continue hiding!” “Lid, stay out of this!”
Spikes of crystal suddenly sparked underneath Elena’s heels, the crystal in her gauntlet shining brighter. Jake and Lid both flinched, and M’Lyn was dumbfounded —no one had seen that side of Elena before, but it was clear she was reaching her limits. With a sigh, the woman looked away, her arms crossed over her chest with a clear scowl.
“You didn’t have to do that, partner… You’re forcing yourself…” she mumbled. “Elena —you’re acting by emotion” Jake warned, “You’re thinking on one life, when other thousands are at stake.” “…” Elena sighed, “I know —but truthfully, this is worse than I thought… If Jack barely made it out alive… I can’t imagine the number of casualties that might follow if Liz is involved in any more fights…” “Even if either Kujo or I remain here?” M’Lyn asked, “We’ve faced her before —just because she has some unknown power doesn’t mean she’s unbeatable.” “…Let me think” Elena replied, after a while, “I need time to think this through.”
Elena took a deep breath, sitting down with one hand on her forehead, her expression one of conflicted thought. Jake’s words rang true, in the end —she was acting by emotion, not by logic. Following her heart rather than her mind, there seemed to be multiple things bothering her with this unknown threat that Liz had become. Desiring silence, it seemed she wasn’t going to talk further, but was going to take Kujo’s plan into consideration.
At the very least it was something —but whether it was the right decision to be taken was yet to be seen.
Jake looked as Elena took a seat, his face stoic and serious, before taking his leave. Lid perked up, a bit taken off-guard by how suddenly the conversation had ended, but decided to follow the actions taken by the rest rather than Elena, who seemed deep in thought.
“Let’s go” Jake told the rest, “There’s no reason to push the topic further —we’re all stressed. Continuing this debate in this ambiance is bound to end with blood.”
With that, Jake left, his fists clenched with clear frustration as he made his way to wherever he would feel calm —find a place he could take time in letting his frustrations and emotions out, unable to keep a façade much longer. Knowing this, Lid chased after him, leaving Kujo and M’Lyn alone with their options seemingly limited. For the time being, only silence would remain —the frustration of a defeat, and uncertainty of their enemy now a bitter, constant memory.
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 1, 2021 17:10:12 GMT -5
”Say we do go along with this plan you’re suggesting, Kujo…” Elena was quick to remind the man how many unit members would hardly be able to keep up with his pace or capabilities. It was an asset at times and a hinderance at others. With the current situation, Elena was hardly about to let him do a solo mission. ”I don’t see why we shouldn’t try, though.” Jake’s sudden support caused Kujo to raise a brow, though he nodded in silent respect at the man’s backbone. That was the kind of mentality they needed, in his opinion, right now. ”Yet she has more information on us than we have on her.” Despite having confidence in his idea, Kujo found himself scowling as he was reminded of just how much Liz had screwed over the Brigade. Having only known bits of pieces of the history between the units, the man had known the woman had betrayed Jack and the Brigade prior, though the extent of the knowledge she had sold off was new information. Can’t I catch a break? Having come in late to the mess, Kujo found himself scowling in silent irritation at the current position they were in.
”I agree with those two, y’know! We can’t continue hiding!” The Raven member’s agreement and fighting spirit was something that Kujo hadn’t anticipated, but found himself relieved by. Perhaps, if enough of them could convince Elena… M’Lyn was in agreement as well, though he had expected as much. Glancing at the ally he knew best in the room, the man gave a faint smirk and nod, having confidence in their abilities regardless of the odds against them. ”I need time to think this through.” It seemed their words were reaching her, though of course, she had a lot to contemplate. Regardless of Kujo’s calloused approach, the man understood he himself wasn’t in a position of such responsibility. Unlike him, Elena had not only the lives of those in this room to think of, but the entire base around them—most likely even more. Despite his irritation and impatience, he could understand her hesitation—though at the same time, hesitation in a position like that could lead to worse disaster, down the line. Whatever. He wasn't planning on letting things end like this, regardless of where their leader's decisions landed. The heartless thought was selfish indeed, not that he was bothered by that fact.
”Let’s go.” Nodding as Jake signaled the end of the conversation for now, wanting to respect their boss’s request for time to think, Kujo stood from his chair and shoved his hands into his pockets. Heading out with M’Lyn from the board room, the stoic man would sigh before glancing at his comrade with a look that seemed torn between irritation and uncomfortability. ”Jack’s confined and Alice ran off.” Raising a hand to his brow and shaking his head, he grumbled with a scowl on his face. ”Shit’s a mess.” Crossing his arms, he glanced over at the Miqo’te with a raised brow. ”So? Think you can train Jack's 'heart'? Whatever the hell that means...” Despite the information they had, Kujo still found most of these concepts bizarre and unusual. 'Light' and 'Dark', 'Hearts' and 'Cores', it was all abstract concepts that he had barely any experience with. None of it had helped him learn more about his Akogare, either, other than understanding it's 'source' (though even that bit of knowledge was vague at its most generous). Though he had offered the idea proposing either him or M'Lyn leaving with Jack, it wasn't like Kujo himself had any clues as to what that would entail, in terms of strengthening the teen's heart against the 'darkness' he was now cursed with.
Since M'Lyn had already begun to train Jack in the ways of magic, he figured the Miqo'te was a better bet than he was. His only experience with training was physical, after all.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 1, 2021 17:50:08 GMT -5
The door closing behind him, Kujo would meet with M’Lyn laying back against the steel wall, arms crossed in contemplation as she debated what to do now. Being reminded of the siblings’ current predicament brought a groan of annoyance from the Miqo’te, unsure on what to do next. Even if she had a few ideas on where the girl might’ve ran off to, odds were she wasn’t the best companion to help with those emotional wounds, lacking in understanding to truly be of reassurance.
”So? Think you can train Jack's 'heart'?” Kujo’s question would be met with a sigh and a shake of denial. At the very least, Elena’s information helped understand a few things, such as the origins of Jack’s own power, as well as his current situation. But it was precisely because of those origins that M’Lyn had not much to offer.
“Unfortunately, I can’t…” the Miqo’te replied, pushing herself back to her feet, yet her arms still crossed, “If his power is from his own heart, then there’s not a lot of ‘training’ to be done. It’s not like magic —it’s not something anyone can grasp from around them…” M’Lyn looked at her hands, uncrossing her arms. A faint flicker of flames emerged from her palm, soft, “If it were something like magic, then I could try and investigate it, but when it comes to the heart… Its shape varies from person to person —there’s no method to strengthening one’s heart.”
Finishing off with a sigh, M’Lyn looked away. The hallways were quiet, still somewhat slumbering as the morning began to settle in. In moments, people would start their activities, be it their job or normal living, a peculiar pair having their lives forever changed —perhaps for worse as stress would take most of their time. M’Lyn clicked her tongue, wanting to do something to get rid of her frustrations —perhaps take it all on training dummies at the training hall, or “bullying” more new recruits, in hopes of finding someone capable of matching her and, perhaps, Kujo.
Although such a hope was hardly feasible.
“…If Maester Y’shtola were here…” M’Lyn grumbled, “Maybe we could have a short… Blast it all…” the Miqo’te rested her head on one hand, seemingly tired, “…I can’t get anything done like this —I’ll be taking a break. …Are you going to check on Jack?”
The Miqo’te looked at Kujo, wondering what he would do next, while Elena debated her options. Alice had mentioned something about Kujo and Jack sharing rooms, so was he going there? The thought seemed unlikely, given that Jack was currently not open to visits —perhaps not even willing to even if the option was available.
After all, if he was able to accept visits, Alice would’ve headed there immediately, with a pace a bit more controlled than what she’d bolted out with, after learning the truth. Speaking of, where could she have gone?
Panting, Alice slowed her pace, standing in front of a door at the end of one of the many hallways. One hand was clutched against her chest, while the other hovered hesitant against the door, wanting to knock on it restlessly. Her eyes were red from so much crying, and some trails still remained, while her emotions still remained a turmoil in hopes of getting an answer or two.
Would she even get an answer, though? Her thoughts faded as she made up her mind, a faint knocking being the only thing she could think of.
“Jack…?” she asked, her voice shaking and soft, “You’re there… Right?”
No answer —her knocking was the only thing that echoed against the steel walls, but not even a muffle came from her brother’s room. The girl continued to knock, trying to keep calm as she did so, but eventually she faltered. Sobbing quietly, she fell to her knees, both hands clutched against her chest as she tried to hold back yet again.
“Please… Don’t leave me… Don’t leave me alone —not again…” she whispered, eyes shut and crying.
Alice perked up as she heard footsteps —a familiar face approaching her, but taking her distance as she noticed the girl crying. Melissa tilted her head, wanting to know what was happening, but Alice didn’t give an answer, instead quickly looking down with unease. It wasn’t until the woman approached and knelt down to her level that the girl began to soften up a bit, letting loose of her protective shell.
The woman smiled faintly, concern clear in her expression, as she opened her arms in offering a hug —all without words, unable to. Alice looked away, but nodded regardless, throwing herself in Melissa’s embrace, and letting go.
Melissa allowed Alice to cry a bit, before patting her shoulder a bit. With signs, she pointed at both her mouth and Alice’s —wanting to know if the girl wanted to talk about what happened, to try and find solace in someone else listening her. The girl nodded, thankful, standing up but still evidently stressed. Grabbing her hand, Melissa took Alice from the hallways back into the small communal area, both of them sitting down in silence. The woman listened to the young Navigator’s words, just making sure Alice had someone to help her.
It didn’t take long for Alice to use Melissa’s lap as a pillow, stress and worry being far too heavy for her to control at the moment. The woman didn’t deny her that small respite, knowing that rest what was the girl needed first and foremost.
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 2, 2021 15:02:33 GMT -5
”Unfortunately, I can’t…” M’Lyn’s reply caused Kujo to give a faint sigh of his own. It seemed the type of strength Jack needed wasn’t something that could come easily from training like magic and the sorts. What a pain. Of course it couldn’t be that easy. ”When it comes to the heart...its shape varies from person to person—“ If there wasn’t a method to do it, the man was truly at a loss for what the teen would be able to accomplish from leaving. Seems like Elena’s just focusing on getting him off of the world, for now. That part made sense, given how much of a target Jack had been. ”If Maester Y’shtola were here…” The unknown name caused the stoic man to raise a brow. Just who, and where, is this ‘Maester’, then? If there was someone who might be able to aid Jack in strengthening his heart, perhaps that was where the groups next destination would be. ”I can’t get anything done like this—I’ll be taking a break. Are you going to check on Jack?” It seemed the Miqo’te had hit her limit—not that Kujo could blame her. It wasn’t like they had gotten a chance of respite since the beginning of the mission. Shaking his head, the man crossed his arms with an annoyed sigh escaping him.
”Doesn’t seem like that’s an option right now.” If Jack was confined, mainly due to the concern of the ‘darkness’ of the curse spreading, it wasn’t like he could just hop in to check on him. Even Alice, his own sister, had been denied entry. ”Besides, it sounds like he still needs rest.” That, and Kujo wasn’t quite sure what he’d say to the teen. It was better to leave them be, in his opinion, for now. ”I’m going to the Navigation Room. There should be footage of the fight with that damned woman.” Though he doubted there was something he could pick up from it that he hadn’t been able to assess in person, Kujo figured it was the best way to spend his time, considering everything. She has to have some sort of limitation or vulnerability… No one was invincible. Not even him. ”When you’re done with your break, come find me. We should talk about this ‘Maester’ of yours.” Even if it was a long-shot, someone capable of the training Jack would need was a must. It wasn’t something Kujo, M’Lyn or seemingly even Elena, could aid the teen with. If that was the case, it was basically their only option, if they couldn’t find Liz’s weakness to defeat her.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 2, 2021 16:01:06 GMT -5
Nodding along the available options, it seemed Kujo didn’t find going back to his own room an option —deciding to leave Jack alone for the time being, allowing him some rest. Perhaps it was considerate, all things considered? Regardless of the motive behind it, M’Lyn didn’t want to bother herself much more —already quite exhausted both physically and mentally.
Would that day ever end? It seemed like it wouldn’t.
”When you’re done with your break, come find me.” Kujo’s intrigue seemed to be piqued, after M’Lyn mentioned someone named “Y’shtola” —something the Miqo’te couldn’t help but chuckle at. Unable to answer for the moment, considerably tired, as well as Kujo heading immediately to Navigations, M’Lyn would’ve told him more about the issue at hand…
This “Y’shtola” was someone from M’Lyn’s world —a world no one had coordinates for. Having been tossed out of her world and send on a wild goose chase to return back, the Miqo’te had little chance to meeting with one of the Scions again —a Scion that knew a lot more when it came to the aetherflow than M’Lyn herself, despite the Miqo’te’s natural abilities.
“Too bad that finding Maester Y’shtola might be the same as finding a weakness in Liz’s powers…” M’Lyn thought, with a smirk —the thought surprisingly amusing despite the overall bitterness of it all.
Kujo’s way to Navigations would be quiet —his path crossing with many uniformed scouts and navigators, some looking his way due to his already questionable fashion sense. If anything, despite the menacing appearance, most considered him a civilian, based on looks alone —and as such, most if not all of them frowned after spotting him easily amongst the crowd.
Obviously, though, given Kujo’s nature from afar, no one dared to question what he was doing there —unaware of the man’s true potential, and overall lack of sociability.
Inside Navigations, Kujo would be able to spot a few people working their ways through information, looking at the screens and not looking away. Unfortunately, if Kujo had been looking for Alice in there, he would find her nowhere the area —most likely being elsewhere within the facilities.
“Oi —you need somethin’, man?”
A voice echoed around the room, aimed towards Kujo. Wearing a similar uniform to Jack was a man around Kujo’s age, but obviously a bit smaller, with dark hair kept really short and dark brown skin. He seemed curious, wondering what Kujo was doing there —obviously, their first time meeting each other.
The man stepped forward, wanting to get closer but still respecting each one’s personal distance, finally crossing his arms over his chest yet a calm expression waiting for an answer. Too bad for him, someone else within the room had something else in mind —mostly to do with Kujo.
“…You’re in Jack’s team, right?” a man’s voice asked —Brandon, stepping forward with the same scowl as before, “Then you can explain what the f—k’s going on, can’t you?” “W-Whoa, Brandon —chill, man!” “Can it, Usher —this doesn’t concern you.”
Brandon stepped forward, crossing the threshold that divided communal space, and Kujo’s personal bubble —obviously looking for a fight if explanations didn’t come quick. Usher tried to push him back, not willing to have a fight in the middle of work. Yet despite his best efforts, Brandon wasn’t moving.
His concern masked with annoyance, the man with an eyepatch wasn’t one to hold back when those he cared for were in apparent trouble —in this case, Jack. How the topic had gotten to his ears would remain a mystery, but perhaps it had something to do with him currently being in Navigations?
“So? Answer already, dammit —where the f—k is Jack, and what did that bitch do to him?”
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 2, 2021 17:44:48 GMT -5
Having made his way to Navigations, Kujo hardly paid attention to the others in the room as he entered, instead focusing on securing his own spot with a display. As he made his way in however, a voice reached out. ”Oi—you need somethin’, man?” Glancing at the stranger in a set of clothes uniform to the Brigade, the stoic man shook his head, continuing to walk towards one of the many empty spots in the room with a display. ”No.” Despite not having many opportunities to showcase it, with Jack and Alice typically handling the digital work, Kujo was confident in his abilities, having grown up on a rather sophisticated world, himself. ”You’re in Jack’s team, right?” Another voice interrupted him as he had begun to move towards a vacant spot. Turning to see Brandon, the man he had run into before, Kujo grimaced at the initial panic laced behind the man’s gruff approach. That’s right…he’s part of the old unit. Kujo straightened a bit, an idea striking him. Maybe he knows more about her limitations or weaknesses...? Despite Brandon’s pushy approach, the large stoic man seemed to ignore the invasion of personal space—inwardly keeping his Akogare at bay, which had wished to lash out the moment it was intruded upon.
”So? Answer already, damn it—“ Crossing his arms, Kujo sighed and shook his head, giving Brandon a cold and disapproving look. ”Weren’t you a leader, at some point?” Despite the calm tone of his voice, the man’s face was hardly containing the masked threat of violence. It was clear he expected more restraint from someone with the man's past role. ”Jack’s recovering.” Keeping his idea in mind, Kujo grimaced a bit, trying to keep his patience in check. ”As for what she did—I’ve got questions about that, myself.” He wasn’t sure just how much information was shared between units, but Elena needed time to think, and it wasn’t like he planned on telling Brandon the finer details. The fact remained though that Jack’s old unit members were his best bet at gathering any sort of information on this ‘Liz’ woman. He’d have to be willing to work with the annoying pushy guy at least a little bit. Glancing over at Usher, Kujo raised a brow. ”Give us some space.” He wasn’t sure who this stranger was, or if they were related to the old unit or not. Clearly wanting to keep the information on a need-to-know basis, it seemed Kujo was willing to cooperate with talking to Brandon, though mostly due to his own motives.
That didn’t mean he intended to just let anyone know, though.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 2, 2021 18:12:30 GMT -5
“C’mon, man —you don’t gotta fight!”
Usher finally managed to force Brandon back, a few steps away from Kujo as he tried to avoid a fight breaking between the two. He knew Brandon, after all —if something he cared for was at risk, he’d lash out with all he had. The many battle scars, and traces of torture across his body showed a will of steel, unbending to those around him.
Needless to say, Brandon was going to get the answers he was after by force if he had to.
Hearing Jack was recovering didn’t help —if anything, it only worsened the man’s scowl. Brandon had to use most of his willpower to not grab Kujo’s shirt collar and pick a fight then and there —although obviously the man didn’t know of Kujo’s powers, or what he was capable of doing on his own. Still, with Usher there, the chances of him engaging in a fight were close to none —not if the peacemaker was there, even with everything that had happened.
”Give us some space.” Usher frowned, after seeing that Kujo seemed to ask for private talk with Brandon. Shaking his head, the man crossed his arms, rather stubbornly, but he had a reason for it. Just like Brandon, Usher was worried about Jack’s current predicament —especially after hearing who the two were referring to.
“You wanna talk about her, don’t you, man?” Usher asked, and then sighed, “Jeez…” “Usher, get lost” Brandon scowled. “Oh, come on! Jack’s as much a team player as I am! I’ve got rights to know what’s goin’ on, man!” “Tch…” “…Heh” Usher seemed to try to draw a smirk, attempting to pull a joke out of nowhere to break the tension —but obviously failing at it, “You never trust anyone, do ya?”
The joke went sour —Brandon’s scowl only deepening to lengths thought impossible. Enough attempts for a day, Usher sighed, turning back towards Kujo, and wanting to make his statement clear. Given that he, Brandon and Melissa had been the ones to show Jack the ropes, Usher wasn’t going to abandon the chance to catch up to what had happened —given the fact that he was the only one who hadn’t seen him in between their arrival, and post their mission.
“So, Jack’s recoverin’, and she did s’mething ‘bout it, eh?” Usher asked aloud, “Damn…” “Why didn’t you do anything?” Brandon asked Kujo, “You’re his team, aren’t you? Damn brat’s stubborn for a leader… At least you seem level-headed —but even that’s stoppin’ you from helping him out, huh?” “Oi, Brandon —no need to pick on ‘im.” “Answer —I’m the one asking here right now, not you, punk” the man stepped forward, each second becoming harder and harder for him to keep composure, “Why aren’t you doin’ anything, huh? Are you gonna abandon ship and go your merry way?” “H-Hey…” Usher flinched, his eyes wide in shock. “You’re no different from her, if you plan on just bailin’ out on people like that, when they need others most. Not just Jack, but Alice, too —if you’re a team, then you’re doing a crap job at showin’ interest. I don’t give a damn if you’re strong or not —you lack heart” Brandon finished, looking at Kujo dead in the eyes, “Workin’ together doesn’t just require strength to fight your enemies —but I guess that’s too hard for you to understand, ain’t it?”
Spitting away, Brandon never once broke eye contact —blunt in his ways as usual, saying what he thought aloud, with no remorse. Usher seemed at a loss, his title as “peacemaker” clearly not doing its job in keeping the animosity in check. Then again, they all had lost something, which in turn had changed or broken something inside of them.
In Brandon’s case, it was clear —worrying about the fact that the same thing had happened yet again, but this time, being unable to support Jack.
“I bet it’s ‘cause of you that the bitch got away with it again… Those two’ve gone through more than their share —the least you could do is cut it out for them.”
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 2, 2021 18:49:37 GMT -5
”You wanna talk about her, don’t you, man?” Despite Kujo’s initial uncertainty, it seemed Usher was indeed involved with Jack and Liz, at least to some degree. As the guy persisted, Kujo merely shrugged, keeping his arms crossed with a sigh. It seemed they were stubborn, too. ”So, Jack’s recoverin’, and she did s’mething ‘bout it, eh?” Giving a silent nod to Usher’s assessment, the stoic man merely raised a brow as Brandon lashed out. Can’t I catch a break? What did he think Kujo was, a doctor? What was he supposed to do that Elena hadn’t done already? Truly, even with the situation and uncertainty, he’d expected more from someone previously in a higher rank within the Brigade unit of the past. ”You’re no different from her, if you plan on just bailing’ out on people like that,” Rolling his eyes a bit, Kujo hardly seemed phased by the man’s lashing out—seemingly finding it more childish and irritating than intimidating. ”Weren’t you helpless when she turned on you—as well as clueless to the fact she was working with the enemy?” With a cold tone, Kujo kept his brow raised. ”Seems to me you’re the last person who can complain about this type of thing.” Shaking his head, Kujo’s usual gruff tone resumed, his previous idea souring rather quickly.
It hardly seemed like Brandon would have any information useful to him, with how thick his skull was. ”You seem more level-headed. What do you know about that woman?” He had shifted his gaze over to Usher, who also seemed to know something about Liz. It seemed his want to work with Brandon was cut short by the man’s temper and lack of common sense. No one like that would be of any use to him right now. ”Anything will work. It doesn't matter how small.” Seemingly ignoring Brandon completely at this point, Kujo waited for Usher's response, uncrossing his arms and shoving his hands into his pockets. All he needed was something that could help him piece together some sort of flaw, weakness, limitation...anything. Despite what Jake had said, about her not being 'human', Kujo wasn't sure it was so simple. Though her powers far surpassed that of any human he'd met so far, hadn't Kujo's own powers exceeded those limitations, as well? Even if the 'Darkness' had changed them, their personality was obnoxiously apparent. Surely there was something that could be exposed.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 2, 2021 19:11:00 GMT -5
Brandon gritted his teeth, unable to keep much of his composure. While what Kujo had said wasn’t wrong, it was a constant thorn in his side. Images of the scenes of that day just fueled his anger, feeling himself tied down with the same ropes as before. He could hear the voices inside his head shouting in pain, wanting for all of it to end, but the relentless torment continued as the enemy tried forcing any sort of information out of his unit —a unit he was tasked to guide and protect. Usher seemed to sense the sudden lashing, quick to grab Brandon from behind before he would try to lunge forward and punch Kujo in the face —avoiding a fight by a hair. It would be obvious, however, that the commotion would gather unwanted attention —as evidenced by the Navigators and other people looking their way. Frowning, Usher looked around, before looking at Brandon with a faint disapproval.
“C’mon, man —you’re makin’ a scene.” “Let go, dammit!” Brandon struggled, now fully seeing red. “Fightin’s not gonna do you any favors, though!”
“What do you know about that woman?” Kujo’s question brought a small pause —catching Usher off-guard, but still not letting go of Brandon. After a while of silence (well, as silent as it could be with Brandon struggling agaist Usher’s iron grip), the man shook his head, somewhat disappointed.
Truth be told, not a lot of people knew much about Liz —if anything, they knew her from what she’d shown, both before and after betraying the Brigade. Most of the time she showed herself as a distant person, cold but efficient when it came to working.
The only person who’d managed to crack further into that façade had been the same person that had become her target.
“Sorry… But I don’t know much, other than what you know” Usher replied, “I didn’t tag with her much when she first joined, or before we got paired up… And then—Wah, hey!”
Usher flinched, as Brandon finally got out of his lock, aiming to grab Kujo by the collar of his shirt, this time nothing stopping him. Regardless if he’d managed to do that or not, he wasn’t stopping there —there was some frustration he had to vent out.
Regardless if revealing the truth was on the line —unlike Elena, Brandon hadn’t made any sort of promise.
“You don’t get to lecture me, dammit!” he shouted, “I know damn well I did nothin’ back then —I couldn’t! You think I would’ve stayed put if my hands weren’t tied, when those people were shot in front of ‘im, huh?! You think I would’ve just watched, if I could’ve done somethin’ about it!?” Brandon scowled, “I know exactly where I went wrong —and it was trusting Elena’s judgement back then! Had I refused the mission, then those two wouldn’t have to suffer through this goddam hell —but you’re not doing anything to make it better, are you?! You’re the same, if not worse, than me!” Brandon’s fists clenched with anger, “You’re goin’ your merry way, tryin’ to get dirt on someone, without makin’ sure your team’s together! How does that make you any better, huh, punk?!”
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 2, 2021 21:27:04 GMT -5
Despite Usher catching Brandon in time, Kujo’s body shimmered for a moment, his Akogare attempting to come forth to ‘protect’ its host. With the clear violent intent, it took most of the stoic man’s will and attention to keep the powerful guardian at bay as the aura faded as fast as it appeared. ”C’mon man—you’re makin’ a scene.” Kujo merely sighed and shook his head as Usher reprimanded Brandon. Was he seriously a leader? The man was continuously questioning the management within the Brigade, especially in moments like these. ”Sorry…but I don’t know much, other than what you know…” Kujo’s sharp perception noted Usher’s grip loosening just a bit, Brandon still struggling like a child. ”Was, hey!” Finally breaking loose, the angry man attempted to walk up to Kujo and get rough with him, though the man’s specter had finally emerged—his Akogare bursting forth as its powerful arms grabbed at the infuriated man. Though Brandon was quick to shout, Kujo paid him little attention, his gaze never having left Usher, his face still as composed as ever.
”Pathetic. Can’t you keep a tighter leash on him?” Ignoring the angry man completely as his glowing guardian hoisted Brandon into the air with its iron grip, Kujo walked forward next to Usher, his hands still in his pockets, a scowl clear on his face as Brandon’s words hit his back. ”So, no one really knows much then. Figures.” Crossing his arms with a sigh, Kujo glanced over at Brandon, his expression stone. ”I don’t really care what you’re mad about. It doesn’t concern me. Get lost.” With that, his Akogare would lower Brandon back to his feet, finally releasing him, though remaining floating in front of the man with an imposing stance as its galaxy eyes bore into him. Guarding its host while Kujo made his way to a vacant seat with a display, the large man merely waved a dismissive hand without looking back at either Usher or Brandon. ”We’re done here.” With that, he pulled out a chair and sat down at the nearest computer module, preparing to go over the battle against Liz, wondering what kind of weaknesses she might have.
How does no one know about her? Then again, it wasn’t like Elena had appeared to do too much research, when he joined. He had only had a brief interview, though surely that was due to Jack and the other’s recommendations, he was starting to think for an operative intel gathering unit, the regulations and knowledge of its members were far too lax.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 3, 2021 5:24:38 GMT -5
Deeming the conversation useless, Kujo revealed his powers without a single word. Keeping Brandon and Usher at bay as the man did his own job, the Akogare would be clearly a center of focus —all eyes now suddenly looking at Kujo, either with fear or contempt. With silence now engulfing the room, odds were that Kujo had made a statement —one no one agreed with. Brandon scowled, knowing he’d lost, but continued to glare as Kujo made himself comfortable, looking past the Akogare with disdain. Already having a rushed image on his character, it seemed they’d butt heads more than civilized talk, regardless if the topic was of mutual interest. Usher sighed, although his impression about Kujo wasn’t the greatest, either. Still, reluctant to fight, he tried to get Brandon out of there, worrying that remaining there would make things worse for everyone. After all, he too knew of the scars left —what had changed, and what had remained. Kujo’s search would help somewhat, if he knew where and how to look into files. There were archives mentioning Liz, but only about her involvement the first time around —when she first joined. A complete sheet of information, perhaps what he was looking for? Regardless of what it would be, there was no point in ignoring what little information he could gather, right? Name: Liz Age: 14 Gender: Female Blood type: A- Height: 152cm Weight: 57kg Health impediments: N/A
Observations:
- Found alone in an alleyway at Averton Str by a reconnaissance unit, brought back to the shelter. Not much known about background prior to involvement with the Brigade, other than perhaps origins.
- Extremely sharp-witted, capable of processing multiple tasks at the same time without losing focus. Improbable atention deficit disorders.
- To be treated for superficial wounds. 967.
- No known relatives or family within the shelter or Brigade. Possible orphan.
Other Comments:
- Severe lack of empathy, possible psychopathy disorder. Subject does not seem to react when people are nearby, or show concern. Usually does no depict any sort of emotion, although it is known that subject does in fact feel.
- While no potential attention deficit disorders are disclosed, subject is extremely motivated by curiosity, seemingly only thing that makes her emote.
- To be observed for possible improvements, and reconsider granting Navigator role. Currently discouraged.
Signed: YDr
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 3, 2021 11:09:53 GMT -5
While Usher and Brandon relented, Kujo’s guardian would disappear with a silent ray of light as the man sat focused at the computer, searching through files. He seemed to care little about the reproach the interruption had caused him, not doubting that many would side with the antagonists. It mattered little to him. Even if he was a part of the Brigade, none of the people in the room mattered to him. Focused solely on his own priorities, Kujo managed to scrounge up barely anything, causing him to scowl at the screen as he read. Tch—figures. Even reading what information the Brigade had on Liz, it seemed sketchy and vague at best. Going over some of what he found, the man found himself scrutinizing the organization he worked for more and more. Who cleared this woman for work? Even the information he found hinted towards Liz’s true nature—especially considering the flaws he’d found. Frankly, it seemed obvious she wasn’t someone to be trusted—especially for her past role in the Brigade. YDr…? The name signed on the files he’d found caused him to raise an eyebrow, unsure if it were initials, a full name, or something else.
Were they the ones who gave her the ‘OK’? He noted that the files he’d found mentioned being discouraged from granting Liz Navigator access—though clearly something had happened between then and Jack’s past mission to get her the role. Even if it was a last-ditch effort… The man wouldn’t have trusted the woman based on the information he found, even as a last resort, with much of anything. Leaning back in the chair he sat at, the man crossed his arms in thought for a moment with a furrowed brow. If she had any sort of those powers at the time, Elena would have been sure to sense it back then. With the power of that ‘Light Crystal’, Kujo found it hard to believe Liz would have been able to slip abilities like that past his boss. So, she acquired them after betraying the Brigade. It was a start, at least. Sighing a bit, the man leaned forward, re-reading the information for what felt like the fiftieth time. What a pain. The only thing the information had given him he could think to exploit was her curiosity, though they were now at a serious disadvantage with that.
Kujo no longer had her ‘curiosity’. Both had deemed the other useless, after their exchange of power. Can’t I catch a break? Deciding to change gears, Kujo would begin to search the computer for information regarding the ‘Darkness’ that Liz seemed to be using. Wondering what other aspects of this element the Brigade had run into, if any, the man continued to scour the databases for intel. He'd also look into this 'YDr', who had seemed to be the one to document the intel he'd found.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 3, 2021 12:17:34 GMT -5
Further continuing, Kujo would have no problem searching for what he was after —but finding the proper answers would prove difficult, particularly when trying to find anything about “darkness.” Only mentions of it would be the same thing that Alice had explained all the way back when they first met, as well as being the force behind the Heartless’ movements —but nothing new there.
It was still a power they knew nothing about.
Searching for whoever “YDr” stood for would prove similar results —the only latest mention of it in a list of victims lost to the war, along others who seemed to share the same fate. The name was there, proving the “YDr” was just an acronym —Yael Dreawell. The numbers featured in the list would be alarming for anyone, but most likely Kujo wouldn’t pay them any mind, instead focusing on what he deemed important. Regardless of it, it seemed that was as far as he could go, if he wanted to pursue it alone.
Whatever files they had that this Yael had written were in the databases, perhaps still having some use to find anything out —but if Kujo’s aim wasn’t Liz anymore, then they were most likely useless.
While Brandon would most likely refuse, and Usher wouldn’t get half of the info anyways, there was still someone who could probably lend a hand —but it was up to Kujo to determine whether he’d do that or not. Until he decided, the information available would serve little in the man’s objective, trying to figure out more about the “darkness” they were facing, or the person who’d psychoanalyzed Liz during her time in the Brigade.
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 3, 2021 13:47:02 GMT -5
Looking further through the database, Kujo would grimace as his search into the source of Liz’s power proved fruitless. What little information he knew already reflected itself back on the display, mocking him entirely. Of course. Sighing in mild annoyance, the man pressed on, looking into this ‘YDr’. Yael Dreawell…? It wasn’t a name that rang any bells for him, despite going through the previous conversations with Elena and other members in his mind. Unfortunately it seemed that this Yael character was no longer in the picture, the name found on a long list of war victims. It seemed he wouldn’t be able to talk with them—not that Kujo had expected them to give them much more detail than the notes entered on the screen prior. Leaning back in his chair, he glared at the screen for a moment while contemplating his next direction. Frankly, what little information the Brigade seemed to have on this ‘Darkness’ hardly seemed open to expanding. It seemed it was still a mostly foreign and unknown entity. It seemed he’d hit a wall, in that regard.
Yael… It was the only resemblance to a lead he’d found, though that had seemed to come up short, as well. He’d have to abandon the databases for now, and resort to gathering intel the old fashioned way. What a pain. He wanted a cigarette. Sighing in mild agitation, the stoic man closed out the files he’d been searching through, shutting down the module he worked on before standing from his seat and making his way out of the Navigations room. Other than Elena, Kujo didn’t have many minds he could openly pick within the Brigade at the moment. Jake and Lid were a part of Raven, causing him to doubt if they’d know anything about this ‘Dreawell’ he’d found, or who took over their prior work. With Jack confined and recovering, Alice vanishing with her turmoil, and M’Lyn getting rest, the man’s allies were all but useless to his search as of right now. He’d have to either get creative, or resort to seeing what the members of the Raven unit knew. Pausing in the hallway, the man gave it some thought, crossing his arms as he furrowed his brow with a scowl.
Struck by a sudden idea, Kujo set off at his usual calm pace. Looming through the hallways, the man’s aim was to find the medical wing within the Headquarters. If Dreawell had been the one conducting psychoanalysis, they were most likely a doctor of some kind. If anyone had taken over their position or continued where they left off, they’d most likely be found there. If he ran into any of his allies on the way though, he’d be willing to share what he’d found, so long as they were up for it.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 3, 2021 15:21:41 GMT -5
Kujo’s search would take him through countless hallways, walls and floors of steel at every turning point, but nothing when it came to signs that could aid him with directions. With Navigations in the second floor from up going down, Kujo had quite a lot of ground to cover, before either getting the indications he needed, or stumbling upon it.
If anything, he would most likely want to head down a few floors before starting his search —given that the current floor was Navigations, as well as holding the board room he’d gone to before already, finding anything medical related other than files was unlikely.
From Navigations a floor down, he would find himself in the floor where Lid’s lab was at, as well as the Storage area. Another floor down, Training and Formation —with new recruits and veterans minding their own business and dedicated to their work, but no familiar faces to be seen. It would only be yet another floor down that Kujo could finally find hope in getting directions to where the Infirmary was at —and with that, someone who could help him out in finding the information he was after.
In order to go yet another floor down, he had to walk by the communal area before the hallways leading to the rooms, since a third hallway would lead to a small slope for the last floor —most likely the floor he was looking for. Other than perhaps a few unfamiliar voices echoing around, given that the floor was also part of the Shelter, he would see a familiar face —two, for that matter.
Still fast asleep, resting her head on someone else’s lap, it seemed Alice had managed to calm down enough to try and recover her energies undisturbed, relieved by having someone else besides her. Watching over her was Melissa, one hand on the girl’s back with the other going through her hair caringly, a faint, pain-filled smiled written on her expression.
While most likely unwilling to bother the two, Kujo was firstly going for information or directions, wasn’t he? Surely he wouldn’t pass the opportunity, even if bothering Alice was a possibility? The girl was fast asleep —waking her up just by asking Melissa questions would hardly be feasible…
Still, he could also just walk past them, ignoring them completely.
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 3, 2021 16:27:03 GMT -5
While roaming through the large HeadQuarters, Kujo found himself in a vaguely irritable mood. After his run-in with Brandon and Usher, as well as the fruitlessness of his searching the databases, he was now forced to painstakingly search each floor in hopes of finding some sort of medical ward. Damn place should have some sort of guide in it… Even a small sign or display with a map would suffice, much like what larger business buildings and malls had in his home world. At the mercy of the winding labyrinth style hallways and staircases leading to other floors, Kujo eventually found himself cutting through the communal area—a space seemingly used for inhabitants general leisure and mundane activities. It didn’t take long for his perceptive gaze to catch the familiar faces sitting idly by. Alice? So, was this where she had run off to? Seemingly having fallen asleep, Kujo couldn’t help but shake his head with a mild sigh. Foolish. She shouldn’t just fall asleep in spaces like this… Despite the seemingly harsh thought, Kujo’s disapproval came from a place of care. Thankfully, it seemed she was watched over by the woman he had met before—during his first run-in with Brandon.
”Melissa, right?” Having walked across the communal space to where Melissa sat with a sleeping Alice, Kujo’s voice was low enough to avoid disrupting her rest, though clear enough to where he shouldn’t have to repeat himself. She was a part of the old unit, too. The idea hadn’t come to him until he’d seen her—considering the sour note his encounter with Brandon had left him on. But would she really know anything…? There was only one way to find out. Giving a faint frown to the slumbering Navigator, Kujo shook his head before giving Melissa a short nod. ”Thanks. I don’t know how she’s able to sleep in a place like this…” The short word of gratitude caused him to grimace a bit. Shoving his hand into his pockets, the stoic man raised an eyebrow at Melissa, wondering if she had her usual notebook and pen handy. If she didn’t, there’d be no use in his questions, he assumed. Once that was ascertained, he’d decide to get to business. "Looks like you'll be here a while.” Motioning at the spot next to Melissa that was vacant, it seemed Kujo was attempting to work one more time with the past unit members.
”You mind? I have a few questions I think you could answer." There was a chance that Melissa would act the same way as Brandon had, quick to anger and the torment of past betrayals. It was a risk he had to take, though, both to get potentially more information on Liz, or directions to the medical ward and about this 'Yael Dreawell'. He'd take a spot on the couch that was vacant upon Melissa's acceptance to talk, though he was also prepared for her to scorn or refuse his request, given his prior run-in with the other old unit members...
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 3, 2021 16:46:16 GMT -5
”Melissa, right?”
The woman perked up, caught off-guard by someone suddenly directing themselves towards her. With Alice still asleep in her lap, there was no real worry to waking her up —instead tilting her head a bit as she noticed Kujo heading her way. Before long, she nodded once —making sure he wasn’t getting the wrong person.
”Thanks. I don’t know how she’s able to sleep in a place like this…” Blinking a bit, Melissa looked down at Alice, before looking back up with a somewhat apologetic smile, and waving one hand back and forth —seemingly thinking it was no big a deal. In the end, it was Melissa’s own fault that the girl was asleep where she was, not the other way around.
Still, she didn’t have her things then and there —only her go-to notes, safe in the fenny pack handing by her waist. She looked at Kujo as he asked if he could have a share of answers, to which Melissa nodded calmly, clear intrigue behind her eyes. She was quick to pout, however, since she didn’t have her usual notebook in hand.
Would sign language work? Melissa seemed to be in a bit of a pickle, as evidenced by her thoughtful look. While she didn’t mind the exchange —given that Melissa wasn’t aware of what had happened in Navigations—, it wasn’t like she wanted to be a bother, either. Looking at Kujo, she pointed at her own mouth, to then point at him, asking if it was going to be more of an exchange than just “yes or no” questions. Whichever the case, perhaps it was best to come up with something…
Melissa perked up, a faint smile raising at the corner of her lips as she came up with something. Handing her own hand over, she showcased her idea —since pen and paper were unavailable, having none in reach, maybe she could just write the answers in something without ink and surface? Odds were that, even if she explained herself in sign language, Kujo wouldn’t understand —so maybe more common tracing would help?
Writing on her own extended hand, she hoped he’d understand —all while Alice remained asleep between them. Drawing the letters, she spelled “here” —hoping he followed.
If all else failed, well… She could try talking —but it would be just as difficult as using sign.
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 4, 2021 0:28:05 GMT -5
Melissa seemed willing enough to answer the questions Kujo had, though it was clear she lacked her usual means of communication. For a moment, she looked stumped, before beginning to trace words out on her hands. Though Kujo’s perception was deft enough to easily track the words she wrote, it wasn’t ideal in terms of lengthier conversation. It was a good idea in general, but the stoic man felt he had a better tool to use in a moment like this. ”Here. Use this.” Having reached into his cropped jacket pocket, he withdrew his phone. Powering the touch display on, the fact that the cellular device had no service or data on this world meant little for what he had in mind. Handing the smartphone to Melissa, the woman would see a blank message screen, addressed to no one, waiting with a keyboard and a blinking dash on the blank window. Some of his questions may required more wordy explanations, and he didn’t want to miss out on anything due to a miscommunication or some other situation.
Hoping the woman would be okay with using the device, rather than the hand method, Kujo would lean back in his seat on the couch, crossing his arms as he began to decide which questions to start with. ”I’m looking for more information on this ‘Liz’ woman. There’s hardly any information to begin with, and what little there is makes me curious about how someone like her even got into the Brigade.” Worst case scenario, Liz wasn’t the only traitor lurking in their midsts. With the woman’s seemingly questionable and sketchy characteristics, it wasn’t unreasonable for Kujo to assume that perhaps she had some inner connections or ‘help’ securing a position for her original coup. ”I don’t expect a lot, but anything you might remember about her could help us find some sort of weakness, or flaw to take advantage of.” His gaze became a bit more firm, a fiery determination in them as his jaw clenched for a moment—steeling himself for the declaration to come. ”I’ll find a way to make sure she can’t mess with Jack, Alice, or anyone again.”
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jan 4, 2021 6:03:58 GMT -5
”Here. Use this.”
Tilting her head a bit, Melissa looked at Kujo handed over his phone. Noting the simple enough display, she nodded, taking it carefully in her hands. She hummed a bit, glancing at the screen before looking back at Kujo, wondering what it was he wanted to ask. ”I’m looking for more information on this ‘Liz’ woman.” Well, the answer came quickly enough —bringing a frown from Melissa. It wasn’t that she couldn’t answer, but it was a touchy subject for a lot of people. Still, she wasn’t impolite to back off after offering to answer, so maybe it was better to swallow the bitter feeling for a bit. Thankfully, Kujo didn’t ask for much —anything helped at that point. ”I’ll find a way to make sure she can’t mess with Jack, Alice, or anyone again.” The comment caused her to look back up, after having come up with something of an answer. Melissa blinked, perplexed, but drew a faint smile, nodding as thanks.
Still, the sort of information that Kujo was after was easily obtainable. In a sense, the people he’d asked so far had the answer —but most hadn’t been willing to give it, something the man had already spectated. Be it through evasion or confrontation, people had refused to answer those doubts he’d voiced, perhaps wanting to avoid the pain rather than fight it.
Melissa looked back at the display, typing her answer rather quickly. Wanting to be concise, she would stop every now and then to rethink how to word it, given that it was a written answer rather than an explained one —meanings could easily be misunderstood, after all.
“I do remember her. She was odd, when we first met…” she began to write, “I didn’t really interact with her when she first joined, though —she was assigned a room in the Shelter, and most thought it was gonna be that. One day she asked to be part of Navigation out of nowhere —around the time Alice applied, I thinkw.”
“Believe it or not, Jack might know better than me in what happened there —on how she actually applied. I know Elena was against it, because of a report, but… I dunno who gave the okay. I’m saying Jack may know because he tried to befriend her, back in the day —even before she began Navi training.”
“Anything else I might be missing?”
Melissa looked up from the phone and back at Kujo, wondering if that would be it. Truthfully, though, she was up to answer a few more questions, if her answers had been vague —or even answer some others. Having heard Kujo was willing to make sure Liz wouldn’t mess with anyone —particularly the two siblings—, Melissa was willing to lend her part.
Surely, the others would, too, after hearing his resolve —perhaps even the stubborn leader he’d butted heads with before. But that was wishful thinking… Right?
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Post by hoodwink on Jan 4, 2021 19:34:29 GMT -5
Reading over the display, Kujo nodded silently as Melissa elaborated on what she could. ”Believe it or not, Jack might now better than me in what happened there—“ Raising an eyebrow, the later half of the woman’s answer had piqued his interest. So, Elena was against it, huh? Unfortunately, neither her nor Jack were really available for questions, at the moment. With the click of his tongue, the man crossed his arms as he thought for a moment. ”I see…alright.” Noting how she was willing to answer more questions, by the looks of things, Kujo couldn’t let the opportunity pass. Glancing back at Melissa, he wondered just how long she’d been a part of the Brigade. ”That’s a good start. Does the name Yael Dreawell mean anything to you?” Truthfully, Kujo had no idea how much time had passed since the date listed on the screen of victims he’d found the name from. He had no idea what year it was on this world as of now, or how relevant those reports were.
”I’m looking for whoever took over their work, or position as psychiatric assessor.” Despite the report being brief, Kujo couldn’t help but think that the past physician wouldn’t have other files not able to be accessed by certain personnel. Was there more information somewhere behind the scenes, perhaps? Waiting for Melissa’s response patiently, he glanced down at Alice briefly. It seemed their conversation hadn’t disturbed her rest yet.
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