scien is walking around the ship, nursing this constant feeling of nausea, though he'll stop when he sees yuri. his eyes narrow, as if trying to remember something in a cloudy haze]
[ Oh. Yuri seems surprised that he's still stocking to it. It's nothing to reflect on Scien, but she's used to disappointment after disappointment... ]
The National Research Institute is dedicated to the mission of overcoming the so-called curse that falls upon the island of Arpéchéle. Primarily we create Relivers [he taps on the intricate floral tattoo on his neck] in order to bypass the twenty-three year long lifespan, alongside other research.
[sure that's already a lot of info to take in but he'll move on to answer her question]
You could do research, if you showed an aptitude for it, but if you don't, I can take on another assistant. Duties would include management of staff, organizing, cleaning, assisting during experiments and procedures, and then providing whatever help Dahut needs.
You're also skilled in swordplay, right? We'd never intentionally put you in danger, but given the cutthroat nature of the work, I can't say you'd always be safe. So the self-defense would work in your favor.
[yuri got a job on the spot while kidnapped for another job love this for her]
It does. If there is anything else that you need to feel settled in a new world and country, you can let myself and Dahut know. We'll procure it for you.
[transition package....]
And? What are your goals for your life away from your previous work?
I no longer want to be in a place where I'm an outcast for something that was not my fault, where I struggled daily to make ends meet for myself, and to carry a stigma that not many people bother to look past.
Moreover, from the time that I left... I was a second away from getting killed, according to Gregor who witnessed my death at that moment. If I return, I'll die.
[the feeling that flickers through scien's oddly processed emotions isn't surprise, but a sense of understanding. of course this happens everywhere. but he looks over her and thinks to himself that's a waste]
... then of course you don't go back.
If that's the case, then I can't say that where Dahut and I are from is without its own problems. But at the very least, as long as you keep a good head on your shoulders, I doubt you'll die.
[ Hello, Scien. Yuri is here to visit him in the brig. She's not mad about the whole thing, and she thinks she should have figured it was Scien from how much of the sim room had his things in it. No matter how much Dahut said he was close to Scien, she never thought it was in a romantic way to the point it would be all his stuff everywhere, but she wanted to believe...
...
No, that wouldn't be quite right.
And mods declared that nothing can be given to the prisoners in the brig, so Yuri just has a wrapped handwich in her hands. She still has it after being through all that mess that was Scien's simulated office. ]
horizontal again i'm sorry this man is really splayed out on the ground looking at the ceiling. his emotions are still in that tight little box bundle, but the strongest one that leaks through is this sense of being lost.
he'll glance over at yuri though]
... you can still request to go to Arpéchéle. If you survive to the end of all this.
There will be a Scien Brofiise there that can still benefit from your assistance—or if you go to an orphanage run by a woman named Sister Salome, she'll look after you.
[ Contemplative, huh. Yuri has a moment to think about her next words. ]
Dahut was really fond of you. He said that you two were close... or similar to that. He also told me some things about you too... that's how I guessed that the office that I saw must have been yours.
[ Hella messy office. ]
"He has a bad personality, but he's really much better than it makes him seem." ... "Please don't be afraid to spend more time with him." was what he told me. Did you ever feel any sort of closeness to him in return?
the flickers of disbelieving fondness, an almost exasperated amusement come through.]
Dahut and I worked together for most of his life, and over half of mine. I don't like to interact with people. They slow me down, or their thin skin makes it impossible for us to communicate.
[ . . . ]
Dahut never feared me. He annoyed me, but he was competent in spite of his own personality. He is my assistant, and in my own timeline that is separate from his own, I've entrusted him with the National Research Institute. My life's work.
Rather than closeness, there is no one I acknowledge more than him.
[and then, a traitorous thought so why did it end up like this?]
[ Yeah, why did it? Yuri sits on the ground, because standing makes her feel... off, when Scien is just there, lying down on the floor. She tries to think of what to say. It feels tragic--and for Scien who has rarely changed over the years according to Dahut, all this... she wonders if it's a new experience for Scien. ]
I could feel a lot of anger from you during the trial. Why? I didn't think it would be because you could be found out, but something else...
[there is a swirling sense of confusion around him. he frowns, as if trying to recall the feeling. this man is already bad with emotions it's so rough out here]
[ Yuri seems surprised to see him ask her, because she didn't expect that. She thought he would have asked other people, because she's very sure that there would be more people visiting him. ]
Admittedly, there are many things I don't know and can only make a guess for. Did you kill Dahut as an act of mercy? Was his heart originally chimera'd or did you try to save him? In figuring that out, I think it would be easier to pinpoint why you're feeling that way.
that lost feeling comes back, and with it a cavern of remorse opens up. dark, dreary, and so empty that it echoes. scien's expression falters for a moment before he closes his eyes.]
Then understand this: I know that I chose it, but I can no longer justify why.
I am a person who relies on logic above all else... and yet my own actions bewilder me, even though I know they are mine.
[ It's a part of being relatively humanoid, Yuri thinks. Scien will hear Yuri's thoughts that she had to leave behind her best friend and coworker at the time so that she could survive. Yuri isn't someone who depends on logic above everything, though it's up there, but she still. She didn't want to, but she had to. It left her with survivor's guilt that still wrecks her to this day. ]
... I will.
[ She will keep that in mind, now and forever because SCIEN IS DYING THE NEXT DAY, APPARENTLY ]
Thank you for taking the time to talk to me. I'll come visit tomorrow too.
but scien is just quiet at that, tilting his head.]
Only come if you feel interested.
You don't need to serve me as my assistant any longer—go to Arpéchéle regardless at the end of all this. You will surely find work and people to assist you there.
But I don't want to risk your safety when I no longer trust this version of myself with it.
Are you saying that you could attack me at any time of your volition?
[ For some reason, this doesn't scare her. She's not even afraid of being attacked. It simply just is. ]
... Even though all this happened, I'm still considering going there. Is there anything that you want me to pass on to the people who are there? Or did you want this to be an "isolated incident"?
I have no intention to attack you, but I held little intention to attack Dahut either.
[so who the fuck knows what's going on, not him. there's a spark of frustration there again, bu tit disappears.]
Pass on... You can give a report to the Scien Brofiise there about what happened, and use it as a bartering chip to make sure he still hires you, but I do believe that version of myself will have the sense to listen.
[pixel shu's mannerisms more closely resemble scien's now, his right hand coming up to his chin as he tilts his head]
Have you accepted someone else's offer of employment to the point they'd call you New Hire? I suppose I did give you until the end of the tour to decide, though at this point I might even be disappointed...
[scien: i don't know how much time i have also scien: but surely it's enough time to tease]
well. pixel shu pauses for a bit before he walks a few steps closer. for just a brief moment, he glitches into the proper image of scien brofiise. there are scars where his reliver neck tattoo used to be, but it's far more recognizably him. he pats the top of yuri's head. his expression softens just slightly.]
You won't have to miss me or anyone else for much longer if I have anything to say about it.
[though he'll pull his hand back and he glitches back to look like pixel shu. goodbye.]
I sent you a message over HER-MES. You'll also get a letter I wrote yesterday. Part of the one you sent me, about 'filling out' actually came from Nosebleed. I'll tell him to start signing his letters.
I already bid on it. If someone else besides me got it, it would be a much bigger mess.
[don't just say this. it probably wouldn't have turned into a massacre. probably.]
But the charity is... interesting. It's true that we are in need of bodies... We've been doing our own experiments, though the results have been mixed.
[he nods. yuri truly did so good. the entire graveyard agrees she's the best girl in the whole world]
They did. Having them all in one place was helpful for the rest of the living too, I'm sure. We often collect reports from those who have died as well, once they're settled.
[well, he will allow the handhold though he does look down, slightly perplexed.]
Hmm... There's a filtration system on the letters - that's partially what my HER-MES update was about. It's only at 70% now, so I assume with our efforts it will continue to go down.
But you can infer, based on what I cannot say, is probably the next track to follow.
Is the ghost same or different each time they appear? Do you know their name? Is there something on the side of the living that I should do? Or if you want me to do?
Different. Yes, they're— [he begins to glitch again, his left hand disappearing - the same arm that scien normally lacks. he frowns and opens his mouth, but then that disappears right off his face.
he looks so annoyed, waiting for his mouth to come back]
[ It's still so weird, because she knows she's talking to Scien, but he looks like a pixellated Shu. ]
... It's alright. Do you think you can write a shift cipher in the letter? Maybe they'll go through as normal because the system will think it's gibberish.
If there something that you'd like me to see that doesn't fit on HER-MES, bringing it to a public location helps. We can see anything that's done out there at all hours. You don't need to write ahead of time. I don't sleep much, and the others are awake even when I do, so someone will probably catch it.
Make sure Callisto isn't killed, though you should be wary of him for your own safety. He's insane.
He had a lot of aggression... there's a chance that he'll become the next murderer, right? Or... was he just always like that? I only know that he refused to talk about his past personal life, but that's it.
[sure he teased about being disappointed earlier but,]
This is not a reflection of your performance. If you wish to come with me, I will still take you.
But even I understand the oddity of doing so when you have built much closer relationships over the past month, with others who are invested in your well-being.
[he rolls his eyes briefly, which is probably so mean coming from pixel shu.]
It is your choice whether you would like to ask or not. You have Arpéchéle to fall back on. If you choose to come with me, I will ensure you having housing, job security, and a reasonable level of safety. [a beat] There will be very little I can't grant you, if you ask for it. As long as you keep up your work, I will have little reason to deny you what you want.
[scien is so very sure that he is capable of providing a good life to someone, once they've proven themselves worthy of his attention.
however, it is because yuri has earned this much from him that he'll allow himself to be inconvenienced.]
But it is alright to want to be with friends instead. [he's not unreasonable. he knows normal people have friends.] So simply give me your answer at the end of all this. I will compensate you for your work here in whatever way I can.
[ Like a baby walking toddler steps. She sounds like she genuinely believes it too. ]
I'll sign off my messages with a hairbow so that you know it's me.
[ She wonders if the actual time has come yet. When she sees Scien's actual appearance, it really just makes her miss them even more, so she feels a little bittersweet. ]
Ah, I only meant on the nanites since that's what Dahut and I were looking into before we died.
Due to circumstances surrounding our composition where we are, we can't make any worthwhile strides so all research related to our bodies will need to be conducted by the living.
Yes, according to his last letter. I plan to speak with him more on it tonight.
[he looks thoughtful for a moment]
It may not be necessary, but ensure he also takes a blood sample and looks at the nanites of someone else. The stupider and less informed about technology, the better. Just to ensure all of you on this side aren't also made of memory.
But while I'll write to you in a cipher, I will send the Brat the same letter in plain text. See how effective the filter is in both.
It wouldn't be a bad idea. A member of Senior Crew as well, if you can get one.
Nanites might not be the cause... but it's better to rule out any differences completely. I also wonder if the lockdown process on Thursdays has anything to do with the violent actions that come after.
[ the way i screamed about how shu and scien share the same VA i can't believe that joke went way over my head when scien was pixelated. help.
Anyway, Yuri is at the food court, because she offers him avocado toast with an egg on top along with a handwich. No, this is not the same handwich since w0. There's lemonade and some strangely shaped shortbread cookies too. It's time to feast, Scien. ]
[ Yuri is more glad that Scien is eating something other than bread, but she feels happy about him eating her cookies too. It makes her smile. ]
If you say so.
[ She seems to be in deep thought for a moment. ]
Um, Scien. I'm really thankful of the accomodations that you were thinking about making for me and were willing to hire me. It made me really happy... but when the end comes, I will go to a different place.
You've spent more than enough time being diligent for the sake of others. Go be selfish and spend the next few decades doing things for yourself until you die of old age.
... I admit, I was always selfish before I came to the ship. The reason why I wanted to do things for everyone here was because I wanted to return their kindness. For how much impact everyone had on me here... I wanted to do the same. Perhaps it's because... I'm finally in an environment where it's not solely every person for themselves. Even if it wasn't to be kind, I appreciated every single gesture that I viewed as kind, that I didn't expect from anyone.
[ But she thanked Scien enough about that, really. ]
Dying of old age... I would really like that. I never fathomed that it could be a possibility for me.
... I don't believe wanting to live is selfish. Similarly, I don't have enough time in the world for every person who is only self-serving. There is something fine in striking a balance and as far as I'm concerned, you've more than paid your debts.
[a beat.]
Well, the only person who can truly decide that is you.
[if we're all going to be on an arc of helping yuri choose for herself]
Go live peacefully. If a communication system opens up between worlds, or I feel like inventing one, use it to let me know if you need anything in the future.
There is no expiration date on my offer—even if you do not come with me, if there is anything you may need, ask it and I will grant it.
[ There's really no doubt that Scien would do such a thing, but Yuri still feels bewildered. ]
Scien... I really can't thank you enough for all that you would do for me. It's... so much. It may not feel like it for you, but this... it's a lot. Even though I said I wouldn't be going with you...
for the man who granted salvation for others because he was bored, this feels like absolutely nothing at all. his word is something that isn't given easily or broken lightly, but for now, there's nothing tangible he's giving her.
the emotions confuse him slightly, but he only tilts his head.]
My favor is earned, not given.
I no longer consider what you deserve to be contingent on what you can provide for me. I will accept your feelings... but save your gratitude for when I truly provide for you.
[ Even if there is nothing tangible, just the thought of someone even saying that they'd do something for her... is a lot. This is what happens when her standards are skewed and she's been bullied by society for years. ]
[scien has been back two days and in those days, he first lost an arm and then he regained one. that's right! somehow scien already had both arms back! that much is probably obvious from how he's walking around (somewhere. anywhere. void.) messing with the IRIS with one hand and eating a piece of bread with the other.
but that's not the only thing. nearly two months ago, one might remember that scien's emotions were... not quite right the last time people could share feelings. echoes of what they should be. never that strong. more like small little bumps rather than the highs and lows of true feeling. that's what it meant to be a reliver.
they're getting trapped in a void - ugh memshare! gimme!! - but there is also one very, very immediate feeling in its strongest form: annoyance.
. . . but that's still a real emotion, isn't it? (anyway gimme a memshare or tell me you want one mwah)]
[ Scien is kind of. Amazing. Yuri spots him from a distance with that new arm. Is it organic? Or a prosthetic? She feels like she's been gaslit. But then they're sucked into a void and that familiar annoyance really reminds her of the first week they were here.
Give me anything that will make me scream about Scien (that will personally not take much) and I will give you a mem in return!! Here. ]
[ Yeah how tf... That's fine. Yuri watches the memory play out. When it finishes, she's in thought. That's quite a cycle... Yuri doesn't quite understand what it's like to "die for love". She wouldn't really want to die for anything. Even during the execution phase when she was a phoenix, she intended to protect, not to die--even if it seemed hopeless at the time. She's all about living.
[scien isn't afraid of his own memories, though there is a vague vibe of 'oh, this again' because it's like the void only picks from three different memories or something, crazy. but he isn't ashamed of nearly sacrificing this teenaged girl, though his new vivid normal emotions lean toward contemplation.]
Her lover came to rescue her, but a series of events happened that led to the both of them still being poisoned by a result—at the very least, that wasn't my fault.
[he would only poison people on purpose]
So she has survived. But she is dying. She probably only has a few more months to live, if I don't intervene in time.
[his repaired emotions reflect his determination and sincerity, coupled with his single-minded focus. his thoughts flicker: there is a debt I must answer]
It was what I was working on, before brought here.
[ noncrunchy emotions!! Yuri seems to be in awe for a moment. ]
... Then you will. I wholeheartedly believe so.
[ Then scold them not to get poisoned again or something. Sometimes it's hard to tell when something is a thought or spoken dialogue when one doesn't look at the open mouth. This is why when Yuri briefly glances away, she thinks Scien mentioned-- ]
Is the debt to... the person that showed in the memory first? Chloe?
scien shakes his head, after a moment of thought.]
No. I owe that woman nothing, though I'm sure her ghost must curse me.
The lover of that girl nearly sacrificed... I owe his family a debt, and he is their current heir. So I cannot let him die, if there is anything I can do to prevent it.
[ Drunk and sleepy Scien... cute. Yuri will try to be alert to steady him just in case. She's also not sure how to respond to that, so she'll just give him the answer. ]
... I realized that I liked Eunhyuk at some point, but it was too late by then, so my feelings about that never went anywhere.
They are based on humans, and they do have a need for sleep. I've simply pushed mine to the limit enough that it acclimated.
[he shakes his head]
The only people I expect to work around the clock are those that have peoples' lives relying on them. With that in mind, I should work the hardest of all. That's all it is.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
week zero, thursday
scien is walking around the ship, nursing this constant feeling of nausea, though he'll stop when he sees yuri. his eyes narrow, as if trying to remember something in a cloudy haze]
... did I offer you a job yesterday...?
no subject
Hello, Scien. Yes, you offered me a job yesterday. Will you be taking it back...?
no subject
No. I'm only confirming. The memories are cloudy, but that doesn't make then unremarkable.
I'll give you until the end of this voyage to decide your answer.
no subject
Could you tell me what the work entails?
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[sure that's already a lot of info to take in but he'll move on to answer her question]
You could do research, if you showed an aptitude for it, but if you don't, I can take on another assistant. Duties would include management of staff, organizing, cleaning, assisting during experiments and procedures, and then providing whatever help Dahut needs.
You're also skilled in swordplay, right? We'd never intentionally put you in danger, but given the cutthroat nature of the work, I can't say you'd always be safe. So the self-defense would work in your favor.
Make an informed decision.
no subject
Yuri nods, taking it all in, but... why is it so cutthroat? She knows nothing. ]
That sounds a lot like a former job I had, so it's very doable.
no subject
Your answer is non-binding. I will assume you are only in consideration until you tell me otherwise.
[he'll at least be upfront about it.]
no subject
[ It can't be as bad as her former job...... should be fine..... ]
I will do my best.
no subject
there's a flicker of amusement from him, still not processed quite right, but he tilts his head. there is also, unfortunately, a sense of approval]
In that case, I expect good things from you.
You'll be compensated fairly and given a residence in Cernevaul, which is the most well-established neighborhood in the island, for your position.
I take it you're eager to escape your previous circumstances.
no subject
The job comes with a residence??
[ um. Ahem. She tries to compose herself. ]
... Yes. It wasn't good for me in many ways, so I want to live out my life when I can.
no subject
It does. If there is anything else that you need to feel settled in a new world and country, you can let myself and Dahut know. We'll procure it for you.
[transition package....]
And? What are your goals for your life away from your previous work?
no subject
But she faces Scien. ]
I want to live.
[ She's serious about this. Maybe because her standards are rock bottom? Who knows. ]
More than anything, that's what I want to do.
backtags.... feel free to drop tho! blows kiss from gy
but he tilts his head, curious]
And it was difficult for you to do so before? Because of the dangerous missions where the other two have to be retrieved from Hell?
no subject
[ ... ]
The place where I come from doesn't outlaw murder, if that says anything.
no subject
no subject
[ She quietly breathes out. ]
I no longer want to be in a place where I'm an outcast for something that was not my fault, where I struggled daily to make ends meet for myself, and to carry a stigma that not many people bother to look past.
Moreover, from the time that I left... I was a second away from getting killed, according to Gregor who witnessed my death at that moment. If I return, I'll die.
no subject
... then of course you don't go back.
If that's the case, then I can't say that where Dahut and I are from is without its own problems. But at the very least, as long as you keep a good head on your shoulders, I doubt you'll die.
no subject
The City was rather lawless in regards to lives, so I think I will be okay.
... Thank you, Scien, for believing in me despite everything.
no subject
It is not worth thanking me for.
You have earned my attention through your own actions. You don't need to be so gloomy about your own competence when I have recognized you.
no subject
Yuri looks surprised, but. Huh. This sort of gesture... ]
... Alright. Um... thank you. I'll note that.
[ It almost seems friendly to her. ]
w0 post-trial
...
No, that wouldn't be quite right.
And mods declared that nothing can be given to the prisoners in the brig, so Yuri just has a wrapped handwich in her hands. She still has it after being through all that mess that was Scien's simulated office. ]
... Scien.
no subject
horizontal again i'm sorry this man is really splayed out on the ground looking at the ceiling. his emotions are still in that tight little box bundle, but the strongest one that leaks through is this sense of being lost.
he'll glance over at yuri though]
... you can still request to go to Arpéchéle. If you survive to the end of all this.
There will be a Scien Brofiise there that can still benefit from your assistance—or if you go to an orphanage run by a woman named Sister Salome, she'll look after you.
Just don't work for this hellhole.
no subject
[ It doesn't surprise her too much, but you know what... that makes sense. ]
Um... how are you feeling?
[ Apart from lost. ]
no subject
[GIVE HER A JOBBBBB SAVE SWEET YURI
but at the question, he just hums]
Contemplative.
no subject
[ Contemplative, huh. Yuri has a moment to think about her next words. ]
Dahut was really fond of you. He said that you two were close... or similar to that. He also told me some things about you too... that's how I guessed that the office that I saw must have been yours.
[ Hella messy office. ]
"He has a bad personality, but he's really much better than it makes him seem." ... "Please don't be afraid to spend more time with him." was what he told me. Did you ever feel any sort of closeness to him in return?
no subject
the flickers of disbelieving fondness, an almost exasperated amusement come through.]
Dahut and I worked together for most of his life, and over half of mine. I don't like to interact with people. They slow me down, or their thin skin makes it impossible for us to communicate.
[ . . . ]
Dahut never feared me. He annoyed me, but he was competent in spite of his own personality. He is my assistant, and in my own timeline that is separate from his own, I've entrusted him with the National Research Institute. My life's work.
Rather than closeness, there is no one I acknowledge more than him.
[and then, a traitorous thought so why did it end up like this?]
no subject
I could feel a lot of anger from you during the trial. Why? I didn't think it would be because you could be found out, but something else...
no subject
[there is a swirling sense of confusion around him. he frowns, as if trying to recall the feeling. this man is already bad with emotions it's so rough out here]
... Angry at myself, maybe?
[the way scien sounds so uncertain is so wild]
no subject
For doing that to Dahut?
[ It isn't accusatory, but she wants to help him understand. She wants to understand too. ]
no subject
[right? his brow furrows like he's trying to see if that feels right]
no subject
Because he was the only one you ever respected?
no subject
[ . . . ]
Something about that... doesn't feel right. But I don't like trusting only feelings.
no subject
[ She's not going to say who that's from, but she certainly thought of that quote after being reminded of it. ]
That's why you have your reasoning to go with it, right? So that you can think about it carefully.
no subject
[ . . . ]
I've never struggled so intensely with my own logic before.
no subject
[ aka you can ask others, scien!! even though he hates dealing with people. she's doing her best to help him socialize. ]
no subject
but there is some small amount of hesitation. resistance. before he finally gives in - ]
... fine.
Then what do you think is happening?
no subject
Admittedly, there are many things I don't know and can only make a guess for. Did you kill Dahut as an act of mercy? Was his heart originally chimera'd or did you try to save him? In figuring that out, I think it would be easier to pinpoint why you're feeling that way.
no subject
It was not an act of mercy or salvation. He was not in pain until I gave him a reason to be.
[and that strikes poorly with him - the plain statement brings up a distant feeling of remorse and frustration.]
no subject
[ ... ]
... Was it about playing god?
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Even when I accepted being revered as a god, that is not the type of person I was.
I won't pretend that I don't have blood on my hands, or that I don't make cruel decisions... but I hate unnecessary sacrifice.
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[ Yuri quietly breathes out. ]
That's why I wanted to know. I wanted to understand your way of thinking. I still do.
no subject
that lost feeling comes back, and with it a cavern of remorse opens up. dark, dreary, and so empty that it echoes. scien's expression falters for a moment before he closes his eyes.]
Then understand this: I know that I chose it, but I can no longer justify why.
I am a person who relies on logic above all else... and yet my own actions bewilder me, even though I know they are mine.
no subject
... I will.
[ She will keep that in mind, now and forever because SCIEN IS DYING THE NEXT DAY, APPARENTLY ]
Thank you for taking the time to talk to me. I'll come visit tomorrow too.
no subject
but scien is just quiet at that, tilting his head.]
Only come if you feel interested.
You don't need to serve me as my assistant any longer—go to Arpéchéle regardless at the end of all this. You will surely find work and people to assist you there.
But I don't want to risk your safety when I no longer trust this version of myself with it.
no subject
[ For some reason, this doesn't scare her. She's not even afraid of being attacked. It simply just is. ]
... Even though all this happened, I'm still considering going there. Is there anything that you want me to pass on to the people who are there? Or did you want this to be an "isolated incident"?
no subject
[so who the fuck knows what's going on, not him. there's a spark of frustration there again, bu tit disappears.]
Pass on... You can give a report to the Scien Brofiise there about what happened, and use it as a bartering chip to make sure he still hires you, but I do believe that version of myself will have the sense to listen.
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[ Those kinds of people are rather easy to persuade as long as you had the right evidence to do so. ]
I'll get going then. I'll see you tomorrow, Scien... sleep well.
no subject
[but he nods, accepting. she will see him tomorrow but probably not in the way she hopes! help!]
I won't, but that's on purpose. [less energy for this body is probably safe for everyone else...] Go rest.
no subject
anyway, sometime after paint, pixel shu will be approaching yuri. though this time, the voice that comes through is far more amused.]
Don't run this time, New Hire. I don't know how much time I have to waste.
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Yuri is so surprised though. Hello???? ]
Scien?!
[ Okay, she won't run. ]
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Have you accepted someone else's offer of employment to the point they'd call you New Hire? I suppose I did give you until the end of the tour to decide, though at this point I might even be disappointed...
[scien: i don't know how much time i have
also scien: but surely it's enough time to tease]
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[ :( ]
But I did miss you.
[ And everyone else. ]
What did you need to talk to me about?
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well. pixel shu pauses for a bit before he walks a few steps closer. for just a brief moment, he glitches into the proper image of scien brofiise. there are scars where his reliver neck tattoo used to be, but it's far more recognizably him. he pats the top of yuri's head. his expression softens just slightly.]
You won't have to miss me or anyone else for much longer if I have anything to say about it.
[though he'll pull his hand back and he glitches back to look like pixel shu. goodbye.]
I sent you a message over HER-MES. You'll also get a letter I wrote yesterday. Part of the one you sent me, about 'filling out' actually came from Nosebleed. I'll tell him to start signing his letters.
You've done well.
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[ But to be acknowledged like this is nice. All those rancid vibes from earlier fade and... well, she wants to cry a little, so she does. ]
... Thank you.
[ But she'll quickly wipe those tears and laughs a little. ]
I can't believe you're calling Eunhyuk as Nosebleed...
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[would scien stop? no. but it is funny that eunhyuk didn't even try.
but he does laugh a bit when she does - and it sounds a little less maniacal than usual. almost fond.]
Why are you crying? This can't be any more difficult than facing a prince turned overgrown lizard.
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[ It's nice to hear Scien laugh. ]
Um, the charity in which the money goes to--Nine Lives. I think they may be involved in giving bodies to the deceased. And...
[ ... ]
Did you want the reliver machine? I can try to get it.
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[don't just say this. it probably wouldn't have turned into a massacre. probably.]
But the charity is... interesting. It's true that we are in need of bodies... We've been doing our own experiments, though the results have been mixed.
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[ ... Wait.
Wait a fucking minute. ]
... Who made the egg casserole? Was that an attempt?
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[help]
Blame Nosebleed for that one. [a beat] Though your impression wasn't bad.
1/2
I didn't do it because I wanted to--!
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Polyamory bird?
[WHY ARE THE DEAD CURSES SO DUMB]
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... I can't believe I was right. Was that also Eunhyuk?
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[he hates calling people by name.... anyway,]
You're sharper than you give yourself credit for.
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[ Anyway, she is determined. ]
Did the papers on Tuesday help? I made sure to let it be easy to read.
[ The results were so many papers on the floor. ]
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They did. Having them all in one place was helpful for the rest of the living too, I'm sure. We often collect reports from those who have died as well, once they're settled.
Every week, we meet a ghost—
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[ Ah... he's gone. ]
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—It's quite annoying to sit through, but I'll summarize what is available in letters.
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[ She will try to... hold his hand? Does it work? it's as if she wants to anchor him here. ]
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[well, he will allow the handhold though he does look down, slightly perplexed.]
Hmm... There's a filtration system on the letters - that's partially what my HER-MES update was about. It's only at 70% now, so I assume with our efforts it will continue to go down.
But you can infer, based on what I cannot say, is probably the next track to follow.
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Is the ghost same or different each time they appear? Do you know their name? Is there something on the side of the living that I should do? Or if you want me to do?
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he looks so annoyed, waiting for his mouth to come back]
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... It's alright. Do you think you can write a shift cipher in the letter? Maybe they'll go through as normal because the system will think it's gibberish.
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I'll make an attempt.
[the mods are gonna hate this it'll be real funny]
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You got cut off, but... is there something you'd like me to do on the living side? Move some things to a location? Something...
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Make sure Callisto isn't killed, though you should be wary of him for your own safety. He's insane.
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He had a lot of aggression... there's a chance that he'll become the next murderer, right? Or... was he just always like that? I only know that he refused to talk about his past personal life, but that's it.
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I know I have a bad personality but I'm also not a homicidal maniac. But we also don't want him sent to us.
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... I'll note that. If anything, he can defend himself really well.
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[ . . . he tilts his head and looks at her for a long moment]
I have a separate question unique to you.
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... Yes? What is it?
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[sure he teased about being disappointed earlier but,]
This is not a reflection of your performance. If you wish to come with me, I will still take you.
But even I understand the oddity of doing so when you have built much closer relationships over the past month, with others who are invested in your well-being.
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... Are you saying that other people would be willing to take me back to their world because we're... close?
[ Apparently the thought hasn't crossed her mind. ]
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[YURI PLEASE]
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It is your choice whether you would like to ask or not. You have Arpéchéle to fall back on. If you choose to come with me, I will ensure you having housing, job security, and a reasonable level of safety. [a beat] There will be very little I can't grant you, if you ask for it. As long as you keep up your work, I will have little reason to deny you what you want.
[scien is so very sure that he is capable of providing a good life to someone, once they've proven themselves worthy of his attention.
however, it is because yuri has earned this much from him that he'll allow himself to be inconvenienced.]
But it is alright to want to be with friends instead. [he's not unreasonable. he knows normal people have friends.] So simply give me your answer at the end of all this. I will compensate you for your work here in whatever way I can.
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I remember. Thank you, Scien. I haven't forgotten. I'm really, really... grateful.
[ She smiles a little. ]
... I'm sorry for hiding from you earlier. I thought it was too much, seeing all these people but pixellated...
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[he doesn't mind. but there's a brief flicker of scien again, instead of pixel shu]
It's good to have a healthy sense of apprehension. When I need you to know that it is me, I will ensure it.
... but you needn't be too grateful. It is merely compensation for work done. You deserve this much.
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[ Yuri pauses, but then smiles. ]
I... deserve it.
[ Like a baby walking toddler steps. She sounds like she genuinely believes it too. ]
I'll sign off my messages with a hairbow so that you know it's me.
[ She wonders if the actual time has come yet. When she sees Scien's actual appearance, it really just makes her miss them even more, so she feels a little bittersweet. ]
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Have more pride. I have acknowledged you. That isn't an easy feat.
[truly his arrogance - but he is very confident about this, at least]
My letters will go primarily to you and the Enda Brat. I've told a few others, so don't be surprised if they come to you asking for updates.
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[ Hm. ]
Also, when I talked to Io, it seemed that he didn't know much about your research and wasn't sure where to go with it.
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Due to circumstances surrounding our composition where we are, we can't make any worthwhile strides so all research related to our bodies will need to be conducted by the living.
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[ Shoma can truly do anything... ]
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Yes, according to his last letter. I plan to speak with him more on it tonight.
[he looks thoughtful for a moment]
It may not be necessary, but ensure he also takes a blood sample and looks at the nanites of someone else. The stupider and less informed about technology, the better. Just to ensure all of you on this side aren't also made of memory.
But while I'll write to you in a cipher, I will send the Brat the same letter in plain text. See how effective the filter is in both.
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I'll get in contact with Shoma after I receive your message then. I'm sure that I can extract a sample from someone...
[ All she has to do is sincerely ask! (lol) ]
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[BE NICE]
In general, compare my letters each time you receive them. I'm sure the others will also send worthwhile information... probably.
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[ Just in case. Might find something interesting. Scien, please... ]
I hope others will send them as well.
[ Please. Either way, Yuri will take it upon herself to what she can anyway. ]
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It wouldn't be a bad idea. A member of Senior Crew as well, if you can get one.
Nanites might not be the cause... but it's better to rule out any differences completely. I also wonder if the lockdown process on Thursdays has anything to do with the violent actions that come after.
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[ She frowns a little. ]
If the nanites aren't the cause, I really wonder just... what is.
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There must be a source. It is not random or without patterns... so we must simply take what evidence we are able to gather and pursue it.
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I'll do my best, Scien.
w6 saturday
Anyway, Yuri is at the food court, because she offers him avocado toast with an egg on top along with a handwich. No, this is not the same handwich since w0. There's lemonade and some strangely shaped shortbread cookies too. It's time to feast, Scien. ]
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but i'm losing it. yuri is so good. scien will just tilt his head at all the food being given to him.
and then he'll lift up one of the cookies and lift it to her mouth to take]
You're going to overfeed me.
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... Then which one would you like to eat...?
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Did you prepare any of these yourself?
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[ The little lumpy shortbread cookies. Tastes great though. ]
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well then he'll just wordlessly eat the cookies first]
I'll pick at the rest as I feel hungry.
[but he'll acknowledge where the extra effort went into]
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If you say so.
[ She seems to be in deep thought for a moment. ]
Um, Scien. I'm really thankful of the accomodations that you were thinking about making for me and were willing to hire me. It made me really happy... but when the end comes, I will go to a different place.
[ She thought about it so hard. ]
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[he sounds about 0% surprised. he'll finish eating one of the cookies, and then raise a hand to tap against her forehead.]
You got the nerve to ask? Or did someone offer?
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I... had to ask, because I know that they would never ask first.
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Why.
Isn't it that man you've been attached to? I didn't think he'd be so shy.
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[ But she would have been super happy if she was personally invited first. Alas. ]
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Well, it's not a bad growth point for you.
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He's very stern about me making choices for myself and taking initiative. So I will get better about them...
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That's good.
[genuinely]
You've spent more than enough time being diligent for the sake of others. Go be selfish and spend the next few decades doing things for yourself until you die of old age.
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[ But she thanked Scien enough about that, really. ]
Dying of old age... I would really like that. I never fathomed that it could be a possibility for me.
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[a beat.]
Well, the only person who can truly decide that is you.
[if we're all going to be on an arc of helping yuri choose for herself]
Go live peacefully. If a communication system opens up between worlds, or I feel like inventing one, use it to let me know if you need anything in the future.
There is no expiration date on my offer—even if you do not come with me, if there is anything you may need, ask it and I will grant it.
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Scien... I really can't thank you enough for all that you would do for me. It's... so much. It may not feel like it for you, but this... it's a lot. Even though I said I wouldn't be going with you...
[ She's about to cry again. ]
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for the man who granted salvation for others because he was bored, this feels like absolutely nothing at all. his word is something that isn't given easily or broken lightly, but for now, there's nothing tangible he's giving her.
the emotions confuse him slightly, but he only tilts his head.]
My favor is earned, not given.
I no longer consider what you deserve to be contingent on what you can provide for me. I will accept your feelings... but save your gratitude for when I truly provide for you.
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Is that... just because you feel like it?
week 7, monday
but that's not the only thing. nearly two months ago, one might remember that scien's emotions were... not quite right the last time people could share feelings. echoes of what they should be. never that strong. more like small little bumps rather than the highs and lows of true feeling. that's what it meant to be a reliver.
they're getting trapped in a void - ugh memshare! gimme!! - but there is also one very, very immediate feeling in its strongest form: annoyance.
. . . but that's still a real emotion, isn't it? (anyway gimme a memshare or tell me you want one mwah)]
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Give me anything that will make me scream about Scien (that will personally not take much) and I will give you a mem in return!! Here. ]
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"You ruthless, selfish, arrogant god..."
let's do golden apple hell yea]
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But this... explains a lot. ]
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... she did end up surviving.
Mostly.
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[ How does one "mostly" survive?? Yuri is curious. Imagine Scien feeling ashamed. ]
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[he would only poison people on purpose]
So she has survived. But she is dying. She probably only has a few more months to live, if I don't intervene in time.
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I believe you'll make it in time...
[ ... ]
... if you want to intervene.
[ She won't judge him if he doesn't want to, but like. Come on. ]
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I will save them.
[his repaired emotions reflect his determination and sincerity, coupled with his single-minded focus. his thoughts flicker: there is a debt I must answer]
It was what I was working on, before brought here.
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... Then you will. I wholeheartedly believe so.
[ Then scold them not to get poisoned again or something. Sometimes it's hard to tell when something is a thought or spoken dialogue when one doesn't look at the open mouth. This is why when Yuri briefly glances away, she thinks Scien mentioned-- ]
Is the debt to... the person that showed in the memory first? Chloe?
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scien shakes his head, after a moment of thought.]
No. I owe that woman nothing, though I'm sure her ghost must curse me.
The lover of that girl nearly sacrificed... I owe his family a debt, and he is their current heir. So I cannot let him die, if there is anything I can do to prevent it.
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But before she can say anything else, they're pulled in for another memory in Gregor's perspective (until 1:53:15). ]
w7 friday
Scien, did you still want to know about it...? It wasn't anything grand...
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but he raises his head when yuri approaches]
It is about you so I will know about you.
[he's drunk enough for circular thoughts]
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... I realized that I liked Eunhyuk at some point, but it was too late by then, so my feelings about that never went anywhere.
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but scien's thoughts are more mild even if they're in the realm of he's more popular than I thought]
I see. You don't care to tell him?
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[ That kiss on Eunhyuk's execution... ]
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the vibe is one of clearly deciding how much he wants to say]
Maybe.
But I think there are other complications besides that one that take precedence.
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[ That too. She still puts some people ahead of herself, so that's why she mentioned that first. ]
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[ . . . . . .
the same vibe is back but stronger]
And other complications.
But it is still up to you how much you care to say.
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[ Tell her, graveyard master scien ]
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It has nothing to do with what I think.
If you are alright not saying, so be it. It won't change anything when you've already made a choice.
But in my personal affairs... I prefer to not leave things unsaid.
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I also... don't want him to feel awkward about it.
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You likely know him better than I do.
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[ yall were there for so long... nerds uniting... ]
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[eunhyuk didn't quite hit scien's buttons to earn his favor]
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I see... I thought you two worked together more often since you two were there earlier than most.
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I... don't think I know much about him either.
[ Despite nearly being correct on french Charles = eunhyuk based on vibes alone. ]
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As long as you go forward without regrets.
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... Would it be wrong to ask to tell me what you know about the things relevant to this situation?
endgame
but he'll cross paths with yuri eventually]
Ready for your life to begin again?
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[ Hi, Scien. Hope you've been eating while working. ]
I still feel exhausted, but... I'm really excited. A little nervous too...
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but he just huffs a bit at that, a briefly fond noise]
From what I understand, that is a common human experience.
[even if he can't relate]
Enjoy being alive enough to feel it.
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[ She doubts it, but let her hope for it one last time. ]
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[sorry sweet yuri]
But I've only been awake seven days.
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[ hello??? ]
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[he shakes his head]
The only people I expect to work around the clock are those that have peoples' lives relying on them. With that in mind, I should work the hardest of all. That's all it is.
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[ That is truly limit breaking... scien just doing double that. ]
Since at that time, working with hallucinations wouldn't be efficient...
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[he frowns thoughtfully]
My record is seventeen days... so I just don't get close to that anymore, mostly.
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And you're still meticulous with what you do...
[ Wow. What the fuck. Some people are just superhumans. She can't imagine being able to focus with lack of sleep. ]