Sent: 14th February, 5020

To: Florey Faraday

Cc: Marcus Marshall, Cassidy Andrews

Subject: Regarding Start at EHM

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Florey,

I wanted to write to you personally before you officially joined us at Event Horizon Manufacturing. I’m excited that you’re finally starting with us after the (exhaustive) months of paperwork. I hope your new apartment is serving you well.

First of all, I want to assure you that while I have high expectations for you, don’t feel the need to push yourself too much. You’re working as my apprentice, but I don’t expect you to solve the Wailing Conflict in one night. You’ll get to that kind of work soon enough.

For your first day, you’ll meet with Cassidy. She’ll be the one you’re answering to at work, since I won’t be present most of the time. She’ll show you around your workspace and get you acquainted with what’s expected of you. Treat her well, she’s a loyal worker.

Lastly, I want to thank you. I don’t know how much longer I’ll be running this company, but knowing that you’ll be perpetuating my work is a comfort. There’s an untapped potential in you, one that we’ll hopefully bring out. And hey, if it doesn’t work out, we can always replace you.

Kidding. You’ll do good.

Sincerely,

Ryan Cecil

———

“It’s a beautiful day in Detu City, folks. The sun’s gleaming off the Eldos mountains at just the right angle, and frankly, I couldn’t be happier to see it. This stuffy radio station certainly feels a lot more like home with that view on the horizon. Speaking of horizon, we’re starting off the day with a song by the band Horizon’s Here called ‘What I Wouldn’t Do for Fame.’ This is just one of the many ways to get you ready to take on your day...”

Florey could still hardly believe it.

It had been a few months since he’d left the academy and settled into his new place. Mr Cecil was generous enough to pay for his apartment while he got comfortable, even if it only made Florey feel guilty for putting him out. He’d also picked out a few work clothes for Florey, to, in his words:

“Lose the student look.”

Florey chuckled at the memory, as he held his closet door open, staring at the clothes he’d ironed a few weeks beforehand in preparation for work.

He slowly lifted them, his excitement visible in his slightly shaky hands, before he went to turn off his radio and get ready proper. The sun was just rising over Detu City, as its inhabitants slowly woke up and began their day, ready for what lay ahead of them.

Florey quickly finished his breakfast from earlier and started brushing his teeth, all while instinctively checking the clock to make sure he wasn’t late.

It’s a twenty-minute walk, so I should have enough time to make a quick lunch. He reminded himself, whipping up a sandwich as he finished brushing his teeth.

After packing his food, cleaning his teeth and getting dressed proper, he was ready to finally leave for his new job.

The first step in his life.

Despite morning’s usually being pretty rough for Florey, he felt ready the moment he got up. He could feel the new days energy as he stepped out of his apartment building and into the streets of Detu City, fresh clothes on and backpack at the ready.

The walk itself went by fairly quickly, but as he gradually made his way to the EHM building, the pressure of his position finally started to set in.

...come on, Florey. You’re better than this. He insisted, shaking his head. New job, new you. It’s not...

Suddenly, the thought hit him.

...I’ve never had a job before.

He started to panic, as he realised the expectations of his position were completely foreign to him.

D-Do I just go in? What do they want from me?

The building started to come into view.

W-What if my co-workers are jealous that I’m so high up? No, that’s stupid...or is it?

He slowly reached the entrance.

Can I bring a backpack in? Who brings a backpack to their job? Isn’t that just a student thing? Oh boy...

“It's beautiful, isn’t it?”

Florey spun around suddenly, as he realised Cecil was right beside him, staring up at the building alongside him.

“Sorry. I felt like greeting you at the entrance.” Cecil said. “I know it can be intimidating, but trust me, you’ll get used to it. It becomes a pattern eventually.”

“P-Pattern?” Florey let out, as Cecil walked him into the building entrance, throwing Florey off with the sheer open presence of the building’s interior.

“I’ve got some business to take care of today, but Cassidy can look after you.” Cecil said, heading toward the elevator, as Florey tried to get his attention.

“Wait! How am I meant to find her? Where is she?” Florey asked, as Cecil smirked and indicated to the front desk, just before the elevator doors closed on him. “...right.”

Florey slowly approached the front desk, tugging on his backpack and trying to look as natural as possible, even if his nerves were forcing him otherwise.

The clerk turned their head. “Yes?”

“H-Hi. I’m...I’m Florey.” He said, as the clerk looked around awkwardly.

“Okay. Hi, Florey.”

Smoothly done, you dumbass. He mentally berated.

“S-Sorry, that’s...I’m starting work here today. I’m meant to meet Ms Andrews.”

The clerk’s eyes lit up. “Oh! You’re Cecil’s apprentice. Right, Florey.”

“Yeah...” Florey sighed, feeling his heart race, just as the clerk pointed to the elevator.

“Just take the elevator to the seventh floor. Down the hall to the left, just keep going and eventually, you’ll see her.” The clerk explained, as Florey stared at the elevator.

“So...I can just use it?”

The clerk nodded. “Yeah. It’s an elevator.”

“It’s not, like...an employee-only elevator?”

“Well, you’re working here, aren’t you?”

“Y-Yeah, right, obviously.” Florey excused, avoiding eye contact, as he hurried over to the elevator to avoid embarrassing himself any further.

He stuck his head out the door. “Thanks!”

The clerk waved back at him in confusion. “That’s...alright.”

Just as the doors closed, Florey rested his hands on his face and breathed.

“That was so bad...what a way to start...” He let out, as the doors eventually opened on the seventh floor. “I need to stop embarassing myself...”

He tentatively stepped out onto the floor, looking around and spotting a few office spaces around him, some like cubicles and some as proper rooms.

A few people rushed by with work in hand, as Florey tried to stay focused on what he needed to do and headed to the left.

He got a few looks as he passed by the other workers, which he tried to ignore, even as his previous anxieties caught up to him.

Don’t be stupid, don’t be stupid, you can’t screw this up...

Finally, he arrived at what looked to be a small office space, built out in the open at the intersection between three walkways, sitting against the office’s exterior window. The desk was currently unoccupied, save for the numerous potted plants taking up space.

Is this...? He wondered, looking around for any other desk that might be Cassidy’s, before deciding to wait patiently as see for himself.

There’s a lot more people here than I thought there’d be. Why’d I think it would just by me and Cecil?

Suddenly, he felt a presence behind him, stepping closer, as he nervously jumped back, terrified that he’d somehow done something wrong.

He turned to see a woman holding a few files, who pointed right at him.

“Florey?”

Florey slowly and worriedly shook his head.

“I thought it was you.” She replied, sticking out her free hand. “Cassidy Andrews. I run the floor.”

“O-Oh.” Florey realised, shaking her hand, as she eventually took her seat.

“It’s about time we got you in here. So far, you’ve just been a fancy name on some documents for me.” Cassidy remarked, getting comfortable, before idly checking one of the leaves on her plant. “Ryan’s new apprentice. The golden child himself.”

“I...wouldn’t...” He said, before realising there was nowhere to sit. “Uhh...”

“Oh, just ask someone for a seat.” Cassidy suggested, indicating to a nearby cubicle, as Florey reluctantly went and did so.

“Hey, can...” He started to ask, as occupant just waved at him to take the free seat, clearing more focussed on their important call. “R=Right, sorry...”

Florey dragged it over and sat down proper, trying to ignore his ever-increasing nerves, just as Cassidy turned to her computer and started typing, though with her attention still on Florey.

“Alright. Just a few more things to fill out here and we should be good.” Cassidy explained, still looking at the monitor. “Is this your first time in the building?”

“Yeah, actually...Mr Cecil even greeted me coming in.” Florey said, as Cassidy laughed to herself.

“He does that to all the newbies. I think it’s a scare tactic.” She suggested, still typing away, while Florey decided to occupy himself with his surroundings.

He glanced around at the interior again, still surprised at just how open it was, before the elevator he’d just left opened up again, letting a sullen figure pull themselves out and nearly lock eyes with Florey.

Florey jumped back in surprise and quickly looked away, only to try and glance at him again, noticing his professional demeanour.

“Uhh, Ms Andrews?”

“Cassidy, please. I hate when people call me that.”

“Right. Who’s that?”

Cassidy lifted her head and looked where Florey was pointing.

“Oh, Marcus is checking up again.” Cassidy answered, tapping away on her keyboard. “He’s the co-CEO. Ryan must have told you about him at some point.”

Florey turned back to her. “You call him Ryan?”

“Oh, sorry. Mr Cecil.” Cassidy corrected, still focused on the screen. “Since he’s so busy with his research and position at the Venator Academy, Ryan doesn’t spend much time here, so Marcus handles most of the administrative stuff while he’s away.”

Florey ignored her going back to saying Ryan and watched as Marcus dragged himself through the floor, ducking his head into each cubicle space and checking in on his employees, an unfortunate scowl ever-present on his face.

“He doesn’t look very friendly.” Florey remarked, as Cassidy laughed to herself.

“You’ve gotta get to know him. He only really opens up to those who’ve earned his trust.” Cassidy said, before typing a couple more words in and turning to Florey. “All done.”

Florey blinked. “R-Really? That’s it?”

“What, you want fireworks?” Cassidy said, as she quickly got up, embarrassing Florey.

“I guess not. I mean, it’s midday. And we’re inside...” Florey rationalized, just as Cassidy tapped his shoulder.

“Let's make this quick. If we’re lucky, we can avoid Marcus’ probing.” Cassidy suggested, as Florey blindly followed her to one of the empty office spaces. “This, for all intents and purposes, is your office.”

Florey did a double take at the sudden realisation, not expecting to have a space of his own. It wasn’t large by any means, but the fact that this was his office...

“Is...this where I’ll do my work?”

“Oh, no no, of course not. This is just for storing material and reporting back to me.” Cassidy explained. “You’ll come here most days and I’ll hand off work to you from Ryan. He’s got a few tasks you can chip away at in the next few days.”

Cassidy noticed Marcus passing by them and turned Florey away to avoid looking at him, before sighing out once it seemed he’d sulked past.

“Honestly, we don’t need him breathing down our necks.” Cassidy insisted, checking that the coast was clear. “I’ll take you to your real workplace now.”

Florey quickly celebrated in his mind, knowing he’d look stupid for doing it in the open, as Cassidy led him to the elevator again, this time taking him to the top floor of the building.

The doors opened to a plain hallway, seeming mostly for connecting executive offices and large meeting rooms, with a large framed painting of Cecil and Marcus hanging in the centre, presenting them as professional and powerful.

“Ignore that. Nobody likes that painting.” Cassidy said, quickly skipping over it, as Florey couldn’t help but look at it, even if only for a second.

Cassidy led him down another small hall, before they arrived at a set of doors that reminded Florey of the science department at the Venator Academy.

“Brace yourself.” Cassidy prefaced, before opening them out to a large laboratory, virtually untouched and pristinely kept. Desks were filled to the brim with testing equipment, all manner of expensive, complicated machinery captured Florey’s imagination, and all in all, the fact that this was his blew his mind.

“I...how’d you have this built? I only decided to work here a few months ago.” Florey asked, as Cassidy showed him around.

“Actually, this lab was meant for Ryan’s personal use, but, as I've said before, he barely comes here.” Cassidy clarified. “So, instead of letting it go to waste, we figured you’d use your big brain and make somethi-”

“No way!” Florey let out, rushing over to another set of doors, before pressing his face on the glass. “You guys have an autopsy room?!”

“Do you two want a room?” Cassidy remarked, as Florey went a bit red in the face. “I’ll leave you to it, if you want. Ryan’s work is laid out on the desk, so take it at your own pace. Report back once you’re done with it.”

“Y-Yes, ma’am.” Florey replied, instantly regretting it.

“Ma’am is just as bad as Ms Andrews.” Cassidy said, smiling back at Florey. “Don’t worry. You’ll get it right someday.”

She left soon after, letting Florey truly take in the majesty of the room in its entirety.

He let out a deep, satisfied breath, leaning against the counters and acknowledging the skylight just above him for the first time.

“I’m finally where I need to be...”

———

Sent: 29th July, 5020

W. [When coming in today, join me in the meeting room. I have some work for you.]

Jules clutched her tablet, standing just outside of the room in question, in two minds about going inside. The hallways around her were just as claustrophobic and stuffy as they always were.

Never enough ventilation. Jules thought to herself, trying to distract her mind from eventually having to go in.

She stood in silence, shuffling her feet, as the exhaustion from the past few weeks was really hitting her.

He won’t allow it... Jules conceded. There’s no way he-

“Hey, pussy.”

Jules jumped a little, as Rosalind rounded the corner, turning between her and the door.

“What, does the big man wanna chew you out again?” Rosalind remarked, as Jules just shook her head.

She started signing to Rosalind, who just ignored her and groaned.

“You know I don’t understand that shit.” Rosalind said, casually balancing her sword on the ground. “Whatever. For once, you’re not my biggest problem.”

She chucked it up and balanced it on her hand instead. “I just tried to get some very annoying, very slippery Venators killed, all for it to blow up in...”

Rosalind accidentally dropped her sword, as it landed right in front of Jules’ foot, almost cutting her.

“Oops.” Rosalind let out.

Jules huffed out and stamped her foot, as Rosalind kept ignoring her and picked it back up.

“Whatever, just don’t tell Wicker. You reckon I could get this on my nose?” Rosalind asked, only a second before actually trying it, as Jules accepted she’d had enough.

I can’t stand her. She admitted, turning to the door again. ...just do it already.

Jules slowly took out her ID card and scanned it, gradually opening the door to an average looking meeting room, save for the confined feeling the hallways carried and the lack of any and all windows.

All that was in there was the large centre table, a computer, and Wicker.

He sat across the table from Jules, working away at something on the computer, as she slowly made her way in.

He lifted his head up to address her. “Jules. Come in.”

[H-Hi...] She signed, already feeling her nerves coming to her.

“I need some work done down at RC. Apparently, during some maintenance, one of th-” Wicker started, before noticing the tension in Jules’ body. “Is something bothering you?”

Jules shook her head quickly, before berating herself and standing up straight.

[Can...can I ask something?]

“Of course.” Wicker insisted, as Jules bit her lip slightly.

Come on already...

[...I was...I was hoping for some time off.]

Wicker stared at her, as Jules felt prompted to explain further.

[O-Only a couple of days. I've been doing a lot around here, a-and it’s been really difficult. I just need a fe-]

Wicker held up his hand and stopped her.

He mulled it over quietly. “Tell you what. After you've taken care of work today, we’ll discuss it.”

Jules felt her excitement take over her, as Wicker faced her fully. “Anyway, a few of our packages have disappeared into the nearby parts of the Aishanara Forest. We don’t know how many are still around, so you’re needed to retrieve whatever’s there. I’ll provide you a few supplies.”

[Yes, of course.] Jules replied, visibly more animated than before, as Wicker went to grab a suitcase for her, handing it off before grabbing her shoulders.

“Do me proud.” He assured.

Jules nodded back to him and signed a quick ‘thank you,’ before heading out the door, only to be greeted by Rosalind again.

She looked down at the suitcase and scoffed. “What, are those your things? Where’s your severance?”

Jules glared at her and flipped her off, as Rosalind just laughed.

“Hello, my absolute favourite person!”

Jules and Rosalind turned to the new voice coming down the hall, before Rosalind could feel her bile building up.

“Oh god. Why are you here today?” She asked, as the man made his approach.

“Wicker needed my business knowhow.” He replied, before turning to Jules. “Sorry, I don’t believe we’ve been acquainted.”

He made a small salute. “Salaire. Are you lost perchance?”

“No, Jules is the boss’ litt-” Rosalind let out, before Jules elbowed her side, building up her anger again. “You piece of s-”

“Ladies, please. Let’s keep our tempers.” Salaire insisted, displaying his palms, before giving his attention to Rosalind. “I have an invitation to lunch meant for you.”

Rosalind turned back to Salaire, before cocking her head. “And?”

“I know this lovely place nearby on Round Street. I figured I’d treat you since I’m in.” Salaire encouraged, only for Rosalind to roll her eyes and face Jules.

“You see this? This fucker tryna invite me to some prissy little tea party playdate shit?” Rosalind spat. “Yeah, it’s some half-hearted attempt to get in my pants. Don’t let him near ya.”

“My my, someone’s in a-” Salaire tried, as Rosalind quickly took her sword and moved it close to his stomach. “A-A-Alright! Alright! I get the idea!”

Rosalind lowered it, as Salaire let out a breath before continuing. “...the invitations still out there. Funnily enough, I’m used to this sort of behaviour by now.”

Rosalind scratched her head with the sword’s handle, before shrugging. “You said you’d pay. And if you try anythin-”

“You’ll gut me in some very creative way, I’m sure.” Salaire encouraged, indicating the way to leave. “I’d hate to ruin a lovely lunch like that.”

Salaire guided her out, before turning back to the still present Jules and waving. “It was nice meeting you, Julie! I’m sure we’d get along swimmingly!”

You barely talked to me. Jules noted, before taking her case and leaving the hall proper, heading out to take care of her work.

———

“...what a jam. Truly the best music can get. Just a bit of news before we move onto our next song. Apparently, the Senate is in talks about establishing a protective barrier around Detu City after the Wailing attacks on the Venator Academy last year. Internal talks had been happening for a while, but they’ve only been made public recently now that the plans are being actualized. Personally, while those Wailing have been putting a heavy weight on my mind, I’m gonna miss that view of the Eldos Mountains. It feels a shame to block that up...but I guess you’ve got to do what’s necessary...”

“...you’re with me, and I’m with you...something something do do do...”

Florey casually sung to himself, adjusting the focus on his microscope, before getting a closer look at his petri dish.

He grabbed a small vial of liquid, sizzling in its container, before pouring a slight drop in the dish, watching as it reacted with the flesh inside.

“...14...seconds...before complete dissipation...” Florey remarked, making note of the results, as he stood up and gave his eye a rest. “A few seconds difference...”

He finished up his notes, wiping his hands off on his lab coat, before storing the vials away in cold storage.

“That’s one more done.” He said, stretching out his back. “I swear, these are getting easier...”

He grabbed what notes he had and headed for the elevator, before taking it the seventh floor and hurrying to his office, grabbing a couple other notebooks while he was there and heading to Cassidy’s desk soon after.

Cassidy slowly lifted her head. “Florey, hey. How’s the research?”

“Well, it turns out that Wailing hide reacts pretty strangely to acidic substances. Certain liquids corrode it in mere seconds, even though it’s tougher than most huma...” Florey said, before studying Cassidy’s expression. “...good. It’s going good.”

“It’s about time you pulled yourself from that lab.” Cassidy said, taking the notebooks from Florey and storing them away. “I swear, I’ve barely seen you in the last few months...”

“Sorry. I’ve just been caught up in my work.” Florey excused, as Cassidy pointed right at him.

“You’ve still got the lab coat on.” She pointed out, embarrassing Florey further.

“I-It was quicker to...” Florey started, before shaking his head. “Anything new?”

“No, just more of the study work. You’re through most of it already.” Cassidy noted. “Just hand it off to me when it’s mostly done. We’ll let the guys in the Research Division take care of it.”

“I’m fine to keep working. It’s no bother.” Florey insisted, before taking his leave.

“Hold on.” Cassidy said, grabbing his attention, before indicating to the break room near the elevator, showing off employees gathered together, celebrating amongst themselves. “It’s Ivan’s birthday today. You should come celebrate.”

Florey watched them singing to Ivan, only to shake his head again. “I’m good. I’ve still got some flesh samples to look into a bit further. Wouldn’t want to put those off.”

Cassidy shrugged. “Can’t say I didn’t try.”

She watched as Florey headed back up the elevator, before letting out an unfortunate sigh and resting her head on her hand, staring down at a picture on her desk.

“Oh, Wendy...” She remarked, picking it up. “I hope he’s getting something from this...”

Just as Florey arrived back on the lab’s floor, he passed the ever-present painting of Cecil and Marcus hanging in the hallway, showing them sitting in matching armchairs with a certain level of refinement to them.

Florey honed in on Cecil in the portrait, before taking a deep breath.

“I promise...I’ll make you proud.” Florey said. “Even in my own small ways. I’ll be what you see in me. It’s the least I can do with this chance I’ve been given...”

His attention drifted to Marcus, just as present in the painting, before a chill ran down his spine.

“Weirdo...” He remarked, before realising how much time he’d spent talking to himself and deciding it was best to get back to his work.

———

“…a café.”

“A good café.”

Rosalind stared up at the front door of a noticeably packed café, labelled the Carry Away Café, as Salaire held the door open for her. They both stepped in, as she nearly knocked her head against a hanging plant near the entrance.

What looked to be the owners gave a wave to Salaire, before pointing to an empty table off to the side by the window. He hurried over and sat down, as Rosalind followed him, but insisted on still standing.

Salaire pointed to the chair. “Come on, sit down.”

“Pretty lucky that they had a table free.”

“Are you actually planning on sitting?”

Rosalind rolled her eyes and obliged him, finally sitting. “So this place is packed, and the owners just happen to have a table reserved for you?”

“They’re friends of mine.” Salaire insisted, grabbing a glass of water, as Rosalind leaned back and folded her arms.

“That’s not it.” She said, pushing her leg against the table. “Sexual favours?”

Salaire nearly choked on his drink. “N-No, of course not. They’ve got, like, thirty years on me.”

Rosalind just shrugged, before staring at Salaire.

“Come on, I’m not just gonna…”

“…”

“...”

“...”

“…I help launder money with them.”

“There we go.” Rosalind said, laughing to herself, as one of said owners walked over with a friendly demeanour.

“Good morning, Salaire. Is this a friend of yours?”

“Yes, this is Rosa from work.” Salaire said, immediately drawing Rosalind’s ire.

The owner turned to Rosalind. “Well, Rosa, can I get you anyth-“

“Rosalind, and an espresso.” She quickly replied, leaning back in her chair, as the owner laughed awkwardly.

“Okay. Do you want anything to eat?”

“Actually, make it two espressos.” Rosalind clarified, before digging around in her pocket, as Salaire leaned over.

“Just get the usual for me.” He said, getting a nod from the owner, before Rosalind pulled out a bag of lollipops from her pocket and tried to open it.

“We’re at a café. Order some food.” Salaire insisted, as Rosalind struggled with the bag.

“Food doesn’t…” She said, grabbing the provided cutlery and stabbing at the bag. “Food doesn’t cut it.”

She managed to get it open, before pulling out a cherry flavoured one and sucking on it. “God, this one sucks…”

“Then why’re you eating it?” Salaire asked, while Rosalind put the lollipop back into her mouth.

“I’ve gotten too used to the other flavours.” Rosalind excused, before snapping her fingers. “Actually, there was this pack of flavours a few years back. It was one of those limited time deals…”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah, it had, like, a sci-fi theme to it.” Rosalind expounded, waving her hands. “I think there was stuff like...Techno Teriyaki, and Cyber Celery…”

Salaire winced. “They sound vile.”

“No, they were great!” Rosalind yelled, leaning over the table, while getting a few looks from the other patrons, before sitting back down. “But they were discontinued, so…”

“Surprising no one.” Salaire laughed, before getting a glare from Rosalind. “…sorry.”

“Tropical’s good, though. Lemonade flavour works.” Rosalind added, staring off into the white noise of the café. “Not the…pineapple one. Something about the texture…”

Salaire looked at Rosalind while she stared off, before the owner brought over Rosalind’s espressos and Salaire’s burger and chips, which he went right for. “You know, my mother used to say that too much candy’s gonna rot your soul.”

“And you’ve never stood on your own two feet, so how good a mother was she?” Rosalind snapped back, throwing Salaire off his meal.

“W-What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means you’re a spineless coward, Salaire. Dressing all fancy just to hide your rodent-like tendencies.” Rosalind pointed out, now leaning a bit over the table while downing her first espresso. “You’re like a sewer rat wearing a real nice suit and expensive cologne.”

Salaire responded in kind by closing the distance and smiling. “I like an opinionated woman.”

“Heh.” Rosalind let out, before sitting back down. “I’d cut your tongue out the first chance I got.”

Salaire sat back down. “Is that the only way you could stand me?”

Rosalind shrugged. “It’s why I work with Jules.”

Rosalind quickly finished off her second espresso and slammed the glass down, before yelling at the owners. “Hey! Two more of these!”

She propped her feet up on the table, before glancing at Salaire. “You’re still paying, right?”

Salaire chuckled to himself. “Yeah, I’m paying.”

———

Truth be told, Jules had never been to the outskirts of Heiamimi.

RC had always been strictly off limits to her, so much so that she didn’t even know what it stood for. She knew a few familiar faces from there, but they were as tight lipped as you’d expect.

However, they knew her. She was the one you got in when you needed a Wailing captured.

Jules carefully skirted the edge of the Aishanara Forest, peering in as best she could. One of the drivers from RC was waiting for her nearby, as she scoped out the area, trying to hide her nerves from coming out.

Come on, you’ve got this... Jules assured herself. ...nothing to it...n-noth-

Just then, she heard a branch snap and jumped suddenly, only to see a bird picking it off a tree and fly away with it. She sighed out and ran her finger over the vials Wicker had provided her in the case, hoping they were enough to keep her safe again.

She made her way further into the forest, though still clearly near the edge. Nothing immediately jumped out to her, save for...

Markings... She noticed, being drawn to scratch marks made on the trunks of nearby trees. They must be nearby.

She looked around, desperate to find any other sign, before a subtle presence and quiet growling came out from behind her.

Instinctively, she quickly dodged to the side, as one of the Wailing she was hunting leaped right past her, claws at the ready. It missed, only to drag against the ground and face her again, as Jules tried to collect herself.

Jules grabbed for one of the vials and turned to the Wailing, ready for its next strike.

Instead, the Wailing opened its mouth, slowly igniting something in its throat, as Jules panicked and huddled away, expecting a plume of flame to erupt from the Wailing’s mouth.

However, she turned and noticed the Wailing failing to burn anything, watching it slowly cough up smoke and try desperately to do what she feared it would. It slowly lost interest in her as it tried to throw any flame at all, only producing more smoke from its mouth.

Jules watched it visibly struggle, almost with a look of shame across its face. She also finally noticed it was limping on one of its back legs

Is it...?

She placed the vial back in her belt and slowly approached the Wailing, as it quickly noticed and turned aggressive again.

Jules gently displayed her hands, before looking around her and picking up a nearby dried leaf from the ground.

She held it in her palm and focused, just as the leaf was gradually consumed and turned into smoke, coming out of her other hand.

The Wailing recoiled slightly, watching her use her Whil so casually, before she stood back up.

[I...don’t know if you can understand this.] She started signing. [But please come with me. I need you to follow me back.]

The Wailing tried to understand her hand movements, only to start growling toward her again, worrying Jules.

[I don’t know what’s happened to you, but I’m sure we can help. That’s what we’re here for.] Jules tried, reaching out again. [We want to help end the Conflict for good.]

The Wailing refused to back down in response to Jules getting closer, as it began to circle her again. Jules’ anxiety was starting to kick in, as it became clear the Wailing wasn’t about to come back without force.

She slowly lowered her hand to reach one of the vials, ready to use it against the Wailing, only for it to jump her suddenly, knocking her to the ground, before running off deeper into the forest, limping with each step.

Jules took a second to come back up, before facing the direction the Wailing had run off to.

Dammit...

———

“...and that was another fantastic hit from the ever-popular Team Harmony. What a talent behind those folks...before heading onto the next song, I’ve got a request from a frequent listener that goes by the name ‘Rose Cantz,’ for her ‘dear and wonderful Liddy Stern.’”

“Liddy, you mean so much to me. Hopefully forcing you to listen to this despite the fact that you hate listening to the radio worked. So, if you’ll have me, like we always have each other, will you go to the formal with me?”

“What a lovely message between two sweethearts, barring the comment about not liking the radio. Hopefully that reached Liddy in time for a confirmation, and hey, for anyone else attending the Venator Academy formal in a weeks’ time, best of luck to you. It’s sure to be a wonderful event.”

Florey lifted his head from his work and turned to the radio.

“Speaking of love, I have a little classic from the King’s Landing to get you feeling just right about what you truly love. Take a second to relax and listen...”

Florey turned down the radio, as he noticed his attention drifting from his work despite his best efforts. He stared dreamily at the ceiling, before jumping at the sudden sound of the lab doors opening behind him.

Before Florey could properly react, Marcus was just by the entrance, knocking near the door.

Florey realised this was the first time he’d seen Marcus face to face, which was especially jarring considering he only now noticed the scar covering most of his nose.

“Routine inspection.” Marcus remarked, slinking his way in. “You’re getting audited.”

“I-I am?” Florey asked, trying to look natural, as Marcus sneered.

“No. I think I’d have more to do in that case then you would.” Marcus pointed out, as Florey thought through it and realised the obvious. “So, you’re the Florey Faraday I’ve heard about?”

“Y-Yes, sir.” Florey replied, holding out his hand as Marcus passed by, only for Marcus to look at it and wave his dismissively.

“Apologies for not meeting you sooner over the last few months. You were low on my priorities list.” Marcus blatantly stated, glancing around the lab thoroughly. “But frankly, I’d take that as a compliment since you’ve yet to be a problem.”

“S-Sure, yeah.” Florey quickly replied, as Marcus noticed a few beakers left out, some having spilled slightly on the counter.

“This lab is a privilege.” He declared, holding up the beakers. “Your job includes maintaining it.”

“I-I was going to get to that later. I usually clean after m...” Florey answered, just as Marcus ducked his head down under the counters, checking inside the cabinets. “Are you looking for anything in particular?”

“No.” Marcus replied, standing back up before going to lean on one of the counters in Florey’s direction.

The pressure started to get to Florey, as he felt he had to do the same.

“Don’t do that.” Marcus said, causing Florey to stand back up, now far more uncomfortable.

Marcus looked behind Florey and noticed the radio still playing.

“Do you always listen to the radio when you work?” Marcus asked.

“N-No, it’s been a...recent thing.” Florey said, turning it down completely. “I didn’t even start listening until working here.”

“Hmm.” Marcus let out, resettling on the counter, as Florey worried he might have upset him somehow.

Marcus scratched at his nose. “I’ll get out of your hair after a few questions. Cecil has a lot of faith in you, but for all I know, you’re a complete stranger that just happened to win his heart.”

Marcus shrugged. “And you’ve yet to impress me. In case you forgot, I’m in charge here too.”

“Y-Yeah, I know...” Florey replied, only to get another glare from Marcus, before clearing his throat.

I’ll just answer the questions. Florey thought. You think he’d realise he’s interrupting my work.

“How much biology experience do you have?” Marcus asked, leaving Florey on the spot.

“I mean, if we count the last half a year I’ve spent here...”

“No...worthwhile...experience...” Marcus wrote down, as Florey realised he had a notepad with him.

He’s assessing me? Florey thought.

“Have you ever killed a Wailing before?” Marcus followed up with, throwing Florey off even more.

“N-No, I...” Florey answered, letting Marcus write even more. “Is this a disguised employee review?”

“No.” Marcus said, before facing Florey again. “Last question. Why did you leave your position at the Venator Academy?”

Florey didn’t expect something like this, especially since he thought Cecil would have told him by now. The room’s silence bled in again, as Florey felt the push to answer.

“I...wasn’t fulfilled.” Florey replied. “I knew I couldn’t be a Venator, at least not a...hunting one. That’s not what I wanted.”

Florey stared at the floor and started playing with his fingers. “I-I...went to the academy against my will, even though I knew I wanted to go anywhere else. I’m no warrior...”

Florey smiled a little. “And then when I really thought about it, I started to wonder if Venators really were helping people. Sure, they defeat Wailing all the time, but the Conflict’s not over. It hasn’t been for ages. And the Wailing are only getting stronger.”

Florey waved his hands. “They’re too busy turning it into a business to be real heroes...so, I went somewhere where my skills could be useful. I went here.”

Marcus stared at Florey while he spoke, as he casually spun a pen in his hands. “Yeah, I picked up on that part.”

Florey looked a bit offended, as Marcus stood back up from the counter.

“So, you decided to leave by yourself?”

“Y-Yeah...” Florey said.

“Venators work in teams. What happened to yours?”

Florey avoided eye contact. “I-I don’t know. I haven’t contacted them since leaving.”

“Oh.” Marcus replied, walking around the lab again, as Florey’s frustration was boiling over.

I swear, the nerve of this guy...

“You know how Cecil got to where he is now?” Marcus rhetorically asked. “Good management. Of his work and himself.”

Marcus reached into one of the draws under the counters and pulled out some paper towel, before half-heartedly swabbing at the mess near the beakers. After doing a good enough job, he quickly took himself back out of the lab, facing Florey as he walked past.

“Clean your messes.” He said, before leaving proper, closing the door suddenly behind him.

Florey was left standing in his lab, unsure whether Marcus meant what he said or whether it was more belittling. Regardless, he tried to turn back to his work, raising the volume on the radio again to help him focus.

“...ell, seems like we’ll have to earmark that next song. Until next time, I suppose. It’s about time we wrap things up here, anyway. I’m Godred Lovejoy, wishing you the best. Don’t be a stranger.”

Florey couldn’t even start his work proper, as he idly tapped on the table, before getting up and leaving the lab himself, needing at least a bit of fresh air.

———

“I’ve never asked why you’re doing it.” Salaire questioned, swirling his straw in his drink.

“Doing what?” Rosalind remarked.

“This. Working with Wicker.” Salaire said, tapping the straw on the brim. “Everyone’s got a reason.”

Rosalind leaned back in her chair, before laughing a little. “I dunno, really. Scratches an itch.”

“A lethal one?”

“Not really, no.” She replied, flashing him a grin. “I guess you’re just here for the pay?”

“Investment, really.” Salaire clarified. “Wicker lets me sell off his findings to whoever wants it. I get a cut for getting his info to my various contacts.”

“Ooo, an honest middleman.” Rosalind mocked. “Still, I guess it’s nobler than murder.”

“Not really, no.” He smirked, smiling back at her. “It’s not like I’m donating to charities. Most of it just gets funneled into my condo and alimony payments.”

Rosalind tapped her fingers against the table, mostly ignoring him again, as Salaire decided to finish his burger.

“Have you thought about investing your savings?” Salaire offered, wiping his mouth, as Rosalind bit her lip in anger. “You’re money’s no good sitting it som-”

“Don’t give me money advice, Salaire.” Rosalind demanded.

“Well, what if you’d like some in the future? You can’t always predict your bank balance.”

“I don’t need anything.” Rosalind said, as Salaire wagged his finger.

“It’s not about need, it’s about want.”

“I want you to shut up.” Rosalind said, crawling over the table. “How much for that, fifty capitals?”

“Hey, hey. Who’s gonna know more about money? Me or you?” Salaire encouraged, only to receive a violent glare from Rosalind, shutting him down. “R-Redundant question...”

Rosalind tried to distract herself with the surrounding café, as Salaire went to grab his card to pay for the meal.

“I’m just looking out for ya. It’s always good to have someone in your corner. If you’re not careful, Wicker’s gonna take advantage of you, and I won’t be there t-”

Before he could continue, Rosalind jumped out of her seat and yanked on his tie, choking him with it. The café around them went dead silent, watching the action unfold, as the owners started to get antsy.

“Shut...the fuck up. Don’t defend me like I’m your good-for-nothing charity case.” Rosalind said, all while Salaire frantically waved his hands in apology. “Clear?”

Salaire nodded profusely, desperately clawing at his tie to try and free himself, only for Rosalind to let go and drop him into his chair, letting him recapture his breath.

“Moron. I’m not about to kill you in public.” Rosalind insisted, folding her arms.

Salaire struggled to recapture his breath, as the café around them continued to watch the action, with one of the owners rushing over right after.

“I-Is everything okay over here?” The owner asked, cautiously eyeing up Rosalind.

“Just fine. We were having a disagreement.” Salaire intervened, before leaning in. “She gets touchy when I mention her waistline.”

Rosalind winced at the comment, as the owner felt somewhat assured, despite still avoiding Rosalind.

Salaire quickly paid for the meal and apologised before the owner left, as Rosalind lifted her head. “My waistline?”

“You want to tell him the real reason?” Salaire shot back, trying to clean up his appearance as the rest of the café side-glanced them. “Now we can’t leave without drawing more attention...”

Salaire noticed Rosalind covering her face. “What?”

Rosalind turned around and revealed she was laughing. “Your face looks really stupid right now.”

Salaire ignored the comment and double-checked his watch, just as Rosalind got a quick message on her tablet.

“...well, I’ve gotta go.” Rosalind said, quickly getting up and pissing off Salaire.

“What did I just say?”

“Up yours.” Rosalind replied, before waving her tablet. “And it’s a request from the big man. No saying no to this one.”

Rosalind took her leave, ignoring the stares coming from the other patrons, only for Salaire to scoff.

“Guess I was right. He really is taking advantage of you.” Salaire said, ending it there, as Rosalind grit her teeth, but refused to turn back around and dignify him, forcing her to leave then and there.

The owner walked back over to Salaire right after Rosalind left. “She’s a piece of work, huh?”

“Yeah.” Salaire said. “But that’s okay.”

———

It was a little later, and fortunately for Jules, her hunt had been uneventful.

She’d made it further into the forest, but just close enough that she could still see the driver, as the forest’s claustrophobia was becoming uncomfortably familiar.

This is crazy... Jules thought. I shouldn’t be out here...

Jules stamped her foot in frustration.

You’re earning those days off! This is worth it! Noth-

Just as she was lost in thought, she immediately tripped over a nearby branch and took a fall down a small dip in the forest floor. She rolled down painfully, before landing directly into a mud puddle and onto her arm, shooting pain right through it.

She stamped her foot again to relieve some of the pain, rubbing her arm cautiously, only to be alerted by more rustling coming from the foliage nearby.

She stood back up as best she could in the mud, wiping off some of it to the best of her ability, before catching what looked to be the silhouette of a Wailing high in the trees, staring down at her as she recovered, almost hesitating briefly.

Right as Jules spotted it in the distance, it ran off to who knows where.

Jules tried to reach out for it, only to notice more rustling behind her, as the initial Wailing she was hunting batted her to the side, knocking her to the ground again.

She managed to turn and face it, as it started circling her again. Jules subtly grabbed for one of the vials, running it through her fingers, all while her head was telling her to attack.

She prepared the vial, only to lock eyes with the Wailing and acknowledge something she hadn’t noticed before.

Fear.

It was scared.

While it looked to be circling her at first, it was actually heading closer to the denser parts of the forest. It was looking to escape.

Even if it wanted to fight, its ever-present limp would only hold it back.

Jules had all the power here.

She started to hesitate, watching as it inched closer to the forest, just as she was ready to put back the vial.

It just wants to go... Jules realised. It just...

She shook her head. We can help it. That’s what...

It was nearly home free.

...that’s what...

Just...

...maybe it’s right to let it g-

“Working hard or hardly working?”

Jules jumped suddenly, as she noticed Rosalind standing right beside her, her sword rested on her shoulders.

The Wailing stayed cautious, as Jules started signing frantically. [Why the hell are you here?!]

“How’d I find you?” Rosalind assumed. “The driver told me where you were. I just felt it out.”

Rosalind held up her tablet. “Wicker was curious since you hadn’t reported back yet. It’s been all day.”

Jules tried to calm down, as Rosalind scratched her neck.

“Having trouble?” Rosalind asked, as Jules all but admitted it. “I guess tha-”

She turned to face the Wailing properly, before groaning. “This scrawny fucker’s giving you a hard time? Seriously?” Rosalind remarked, swinging her sword down. “Alright. Guess I have to do everything again.”

Before Jules could protest, Rosalind sprinted to the Wailing, jumping at it before it could try to get away, just as she landed on top of it, pinning it down with her sword near its neck.

“Hurry up. This thing’s ugly as fuck.” Rosalind demanded, trying to hold the Wailing from bucking her off.

Jules slowly got up and watched the Wailing trying to fight back, even as it clearly couldn’t push her off with its sprained leg. She made her way over, going for one of the vials, just as the Wailing drew its attention to her, now whining at her instead of trying to escape.

She tried to block out the noise, as she held the vial over her hand and realised a gel onto it. She gradually absorbed it with her Whil, before pointing her hand in the Wailing’s face, looking away the entire time.

Eventually, a thick mist came out from her hand, enveloping the Wailing’s face, as it tried desperately to not to breath it in, thrashing about wildly as it did so.

Rosalind held her breath too, before the Wailing couldn’t fight it anymore and collapsed to the ground, its eyes having turned completely white.

“Well then.” Rosalind said, getting off of it. “There we go. Not so hard, huh?”

Jules could feel herself shaking, struggling to put the vial back, before accidentally dropping it on the ground.

“Oh, get over it already. I know this isn’t your first capture. Don’t try to get sympathy from me.” Rosalind said, before pulling out her tablet again. “This is Rosalind. We’ve got one for collection.”

———

It was a long drive for Jules.

Rosalind insisted on taking her back in her ute. Jules couldn’t really tell why, but she suspected it was something to do with further keeping an eye on her.

She stared down at her clothes, still stained in the mud she’d landed in. At this point, it had soaked in pretty thoroughly.

But...at least she’d get her break after today.

After getting back to Detu City, Rosalind made a beeline for home base, parking in the provided carpark and locking her ute up.

“What a day.” Rosalind let out, stretching. “Salaire better thank me for not choking him out.”

Rosalind was ready to head inside, only to realise Jules wasn’t following her and that she’d walked to the exit of the carpark, staring out.

“Hey! Dipshit!” Rosalind called out. “Work’s this way!”

Jules turned and started signing to Rosalind, only for her to groan in annoyance.

“Whatever. If you get lost, it’s your head, not mine.” Rosalind complained, before scanning her ID and heading inside.

Jules kept to herself and watched Rosalind, before leaving on her own. She quickly remembered the place Salaire had teased earlier and couldn’t keep it out of her mind, as she tried her best to find it.

Round Street... She repeated to herself, only to supposedly find it a few minutes later, still bustling with customers. Wow, this place is packed. No wonder he was recommending it...

As she approached the busy café, she started to worry she might not find a free table. Fortunately, a couple just managed to get up and leave soon after, opening one up for her just as she arrived, letting her sit down properly and take a breath.

I really needed some air... She thought. No stuffy hallways...no Rosalind...no...

She closed her eyes and let herself breathe for a moment, finally calming her heart after the rush it had received from everything that had transpired in the forest, before she felt the pull of someone’s presence on the other end of her table.

She opened an eye and found someone grabbing the opposite chair.

“Hey, is it alright if I sit here? There aren’t any other free seats.”

She looked over him cautiously, before slowly nodding, as he quickly took his place.

“Thanks...I’m Florey, by the way.” Florey greeted, trying not to look awkward. “But I guess you didn’t ask...”

Jules shook her head, assuring him it wasn’t a worry, as Florey felt a bit more at ease.

“Right. Hey, you’ve got some...”

Florey pointed down as Jules’ muddy clothes, as she just rolled her eyes and played it off.

“Whatever.” Florey agreed, clearing his throat before facing her again proper. “Do you mind if I ask your name?”

Jules debated the merits of spreading her name around so freely, especially to a complete stranger she’d just met, but gave Florey another quick onceover and concluded it wouldn’t be an issue.

[Jules.] She signed to him, as Florey studied her gestures.

“...Jules.” He repeated allowed, as Jules noticed he was staring.

[Is something wrong?]

“...no, no, sorry. You just...reminded me of someone...” Florey admitted, staring off into the café, as Jules wondered what he was talking about.

Florey noticed the line to order food, before looking to Jules and getting up again. “I’m gonna go order something. Do you want anything?”

Jules waved her hands. [I couldn’t have you buy me food. We just met.]

Florey shrugged, before signing back to her. [You gave me the seat. The least I can do is pay you back. What do you want?]

Jules stayed quiet for a second, before giving in and giving her order. [One of those strawberry tarts I saw coming in. A-And a lemonade.]

Florey gave a thumbs up and waited in line, as Jules finally took in the silence again, feeling somewhat at ease with this person she just met.

I wonder what his story is...

———

“It’s this whole new step for me.” Florey explained, taking a bite of his sandwich. “All of a sudden, I’m getting respect for the work I do. No parents, no shitty teachers, just me and my work.”

[Has that been a problem before?] Jules asked, before going after her own food.

“Yeah. I had it pretty hard back where I used to study...” Florey confessed, taking a sip of his coffee. “I...I let go of some people in my life. I needed to make a change, and...that meant leaving them behind.”

Florey rubbed his arm in frustration. “We were never that close...but I know I hurt them...and I know an apology would just feel belated at this point.”

Florey showed his hands. “But I don’t know what to do! I feel like the bridge is burnt. There’s no pointing trying to fix it, right?”

Jules took a second to appreciate her finely crafted tart, truly taking in the depths of flavour, before staring at him and rolling her eyes. [You should still do it.]

Florey blinked. “W-What?”

[Apologising for something is always worth doing. Even if you feel like you’ve burnt that bridge.] Jules pointed out. [If the right thing’s the hard thing to do, that probably means it’s worth it.]

“...that’s not always viable, though.” Florey added. “I don’t know how they’ll react. What if I just make it worse for them? What if they’ve moved on, and I just come in and open old wounds?”

Jules shrugged. [Sounds like an excuse.]

“Wha-excuse? Excuse my ass...” Florey groaned, before reflecting on it more. “...I know it’s hard, but maybe that’s a sign it’s not worth it. My work feels so natural, and this doesn’t...what’s the point, you know?”

Jules’ eye twitched, before she slammed her hand down suddenly, freaking Florey out.

[If you can act, do it! Some of us aren’t so-]

Jules stopped herself quickly and sat back down, as Florey reeled from the sudden outburst.

“Sounds like you’ve had a fun day too.” Florey remarked, taking a needed drink.

[...sorry.]

[It’s fine.] Florey replied. “...but something’s bothering you, huh?”

Jules slowly nodded, as she huddled in her chair, trying not to look at him.

She struggled to pull up her hands. [I’ve...done some bad things.]

Florey blinked, before taking another sip. “Okay.”

[...I know I shouldn’t have done them, but there’s nothing I could do.] Jules admitted. [And every time I try to act better, I never get the chance...]

“...that’s some pretty heavy stuff.” Florey said, swirling his coffee. “Sorry, I didn’t want you to feel li-”

[No, no, it’s fine.] Jules assured. [I just wish...]

Suddenly, Jules smiled to herself, as Florey tried to make out her expression. “Jules?”

[Sorry. I was just thinking...I met this team.] Jules signed, as Florey cocked his head.

[Team?]

[A Venator team.] Jules added. [There was a Wailing attack, and I was terrified something would happen to me. I hid away as best I could, and then one of their members found me and offered me shelter.]

Jules smiled when recalling the memory. [No one’s ever done something like that for me. I didn’t ask for help, I wasn’t even nice to them, but they gave it regardless. I was so lucky...]

Jules snickered to herself. [And I was terrified out of my gourd.]

“They sound nice.” Florey admitted, as Jules nodded back.

[They were.] She confessed.

Florey chuckled to himself. “I know what it’s like, by the way. I uhh...”

Florey tentatively pulled down his shirt collar a little to show the scar on his neck. “I...got attacked by a Wailing when I was younger, and a Venator team came in and saved me. I don’t remember who they were, but I still can’t forget that day. For all their problems, Venators really can do some good...”

Jules stared at Florey in confusion, as he quickly noticed her change in expression. “What?”

[...I’m surprised.] Jules admitted. [I never thought people like Venators could help so much.]

“Why not?” Florey asked, taking another sip of his drink, as Jules suddenly went quiet.

[My...boss...used to tell me that Venators were all violent thugs. Just hired guns who acted like glorified exterminators for the Wailing.] Jules pointed out. [But these ones I met were so nice. They cared about each other. I couldn’t call them thugs, and they certainly didn’t act like it...]

“Thug Venators?” Florey smirked. “I mean...a few of them, maybe...”

[But why would he say that if it’s not true? I saw it with my own two eyes.] Jules admitted, as Florey finished up his coffee and stood up.

“Maybe he’s ill-informed? He might...not have met a lot of good ones...” Florey said, now thinking to himself. “Maybe it’s not as simple as writing them all off...there’s always another chance...”

Florey stared down at his drink. “Maybe meeting the good ones isn’t something you should take for granted...”

Jules stared down at her food quietly, before Florey tapped her shoulder and smiled.

“You could change his mind. If your boss is anywhere near as cool as mine, then I’m sure he’s worth it.” Florey grinned, stretching as he stood up. “Thanks for the seat. I really needed a bit of air.”

Florey turned away. “And, uhh...I think I might take your advice. About apologising.”

Jules watched him clearly struggle with the words. “...it’s the right thing to do, even if I’m setting myself up to get hurt. However they react, I’ll just take it in stride.”

Florey quickly pulled out his tablet and checked the calendar. “Actually, when’s that formal? I could guarantee they’d all be in one spot...”

Jules smiled to herself and stood up as well, before sticking out her hand.

Florey was distracted with his plans, before realising what she was doing and quickly shaking it. “Sorry. Got distracted.”

[Thanks for the chat.] Jules replied. [There’s not a lot of people I can do this with, so it’s appreciated.]

Florey grinned, before checking his tablet and acknowledging the time. “Is it six already? I’ve gotta get back.”

Florey grabbed his bag and hurried off, before waving back to Jules as he ran.

“Thank you!” He called out, before disappearing back into the white noise of Detu City.

Jules took one last bite of her food and cleared her table, just as she headed back to report her work to Wicker.

You don’t come across people like that every day. Jules thought. I hope I get to see him again.

She eventually made her way back, still feeling elated from her chat, just as she arrived at the entrance to the building again.

She went to pull out her ID card to get in, only to reach into her pocket and find it soaked completely with mud.

She did her best to scan what was left of the card, which only just managed to work, before she stared at the shriveled remains of the card.

Geez. That puddle really did a number on it. She admitted, taking out the ID from its holder and idly chucking it to the floor. I guess it’s not hard to print a new one.

She headed inside proper and reacquainted herself with the cramped hallways, as they made themselves known again.

She ignored it as best she could, still feeling buzzed from her pleasant chat at the café, before she arrived at the meeting room again, the door slightly ajar.

She grabbed the door handle, only to notice her hand slightly hesitating with opening it.

...you’ve got this. Jules assured herself. It’ll all be worth it.

She slowly opened the door, as Wicker sat across from her at the table, looking over some work.

He lifted his head. “You’re a bit late.”

[The...Wailing put up a fight.] Jules signed, as Wicker waved his hand for her to come closer.

“So? How did the capture go?”

Jules straightened her back. [We managed to capture a Wailing and bring it back to one of the drivers. Unfortunately...there were no others in the nearby area.]

Jules elected not to mention the second Wailing she’d spotted, as Wicker adjusted his seat.

“...okay.” Wicker said, giving her his full attention. “We’ll send out a few agents to see if they can track down anymore of the escapees. After that, you can go through and collect the rest.”

[Of course.] Jules replied, as Wicker went back to his work, leaving Jules a bit on the spot.

Wicker noticed her still standing there. “Good job. You did well today.”

Jules still felt unsatisfied, as she got his attention again. [So...about the days off...]

Wicker stared at her, as she started to sweat.

[The days off you sai-]

“What days off?”

Jules stood in dumbfounded silence, as Wicker started to get up.

Jules did her best to communicate with shaky hands. [T-The ones you said I could have if I took care o-]

“I don’t remember us talking about days off.” Wicker insisted, shaking his head.

Jules was struggling to hold her hands up, as Wicker rested himself by sitting against the table.

“I said we’d discuss it after your work was done, but nothing was confirmed.” Wicker clarified, slowly standing up. “And as far as I know, we’ve yet to actually talk about it.”

Jules watched as he slowly approached, making his presence in the room all the more encompassing.

“Tell you what. After you've taken care of your work in the next few weeks, we’ll discuss it properly.” Wicker said, as Jules couldn’t close her mouth in shock. “There’s still those other Wailing that need to be captured, after all.”

Jules started to feel her legs give out, as Wicker studied her expression.

“Is that all?”

Jules went to clench a fist, as Wicker stared at her intently.

“I said is that all?”

Jules stared at the floor, desperate to hold back emotion, before signing in response.

[Y-Yes...father...]

“Alright. Oh, and clean yourself off. I don’t want mud getting tracked in here.” Wicker insisted, just as Jules did her best to leave the room as quickly as she could manage.

Just as she rounded the corner, she fell against the wall and slid to the floor, crying to herself. The lack of any and all relief was crushing, as the claustrophobia of the halls flooded back in.

She hoped no one would see her like this.

She was ashamed of where she was.

Of what she did.

And that there was nothing she could do.

And no one coming to save her.