[ this message starts with a long silence. then: ]
I keep losing him. I... I've walked into three fights, and he keeps getting away. I just lost him again. A few hours ago. And you've seen. The state of the network.
[he returns the call about half an hour later, and the delay is largely because he's not even sure whether he should. Concern wins out over doubt in the end, though.]
... I have seen, and I have tried to help where I can. [quietly.] He's very fast.
[ this text comes from Bariyan's tablet, registered under Bariyan's name ]
Everyone is gone. Everyone is leaving. I don't know where they've gone to, I don't know where they're going. I don't remember what I did last night. I think I may have killed someone but it was dark and if there was blood I could not smell it because
[After the run-in with Ashraf, she's wary of using any sort of voice communication and bringing someone in the room.
This isn't a communication she wants to make. She doesn't want to see anyone by this point, she just wants to leave. So, Seviilia sticks to text despite shaking fingers.]
I wanted to tell you. Today, I tried cooking what you make for me...the eggs, and the meat? I, I didn't do so great the first time...but Feferi showed up, and it went a lot better. It wasn't as tasty, but it wasn't bad. I shared it, too. I was looking for you over there, where those people are being held, but you weren't there...so I gave what was left over. Maybe if I get better, I can do that again.
[a beat.]
I want to try again. And with other things, too. [trailing off again. silence.
as if he's forgotten the thing is still on.
(he did for a minute)
minute up:] Oh! So...so that's it. I wanted you to know. I'll see you soon, though, so...!
[aw, baby boy. Koltira knows he's been neglecting you -- there's been so much to deal with lately.]
Martin ... that was kind of you to do. I'm afraid I'll need to spend the majority of my time at those cells, going forward. The people there need to be watched. Some more than others.
[exhale.]
But when this is all sorted, I can help you improve your work. We will cook together.
[Koltira doesn't text; his typing is godawful and he's too much of a befuddled grandpa to learn how to do it properly. So there's his hissing, undead voice instead.]
I have no interest in engaging further with either of you. I will compile the notes from what the others suggest to me. I will give them to Ashraf, to use in his formation of a council. And that will be the end of any association.
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