the 002nd. || voice

[pike]

[ Much like Nigel's first post, there is only silence when the device first clicks on. Eventually, though, the young man on the other end of the connection clears his throat. His tone is politely curious. ]

I've been told that the dead do not stay dead here and in ways much more involved than the occasional curse. Which leaves me wondering, City: is there no need for undertakers here?

[ There's a pause and then Nigel adds: ]  I had hoped to make myself useful.

Comments

[pike]

My bedside manner is lacking.

[synanthrope]

I'm far from the best judge on that.

[pike]

Then you'll simply have to take my word for it, Saya.

[ A pause. ] I'm looking for employment.

[synanthrope]

I thought you were a minor.

[pike]

Seventeen. Old enough to work by most of the world's standards.

[synanthrope]

Certainly by more than most. But until you turn eighteen, the City provides for you.

I'm not trying to dissuade you, I'm just letting you know.

[pike]

I'd like to keep busy and live by my own means.

[synanthrope]

Are you looking for your own apartment as well?

[pike]

[ Definitely: ] No.

[ A beat. ] Unless you'd prefer I live elsewhere.

[synanthrope]

No. I like where you are.

[Who knows why? Saya has her own reasons for everything]

Perhaps the hospital is looking for someone to assist in the morgue. I'll speak to Robert about it.

[pike]

And Robert is...?

[synanthrope]

A doctor.

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[pike]

Trustworthy?

[ In they're very skewed definition of trust, of course. ]

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[synanthrope]

As trustworthy as anyone who is a doctor is.

I did let you sew me up, didn't I?

[There's an implication there. If he's a doctor, and her friend, why didn't she go to him instead?]

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[pike]

[ Nigel makes a thoughtful sound, understanding her implication. There's perhaps a small smile in his voice when he says: ]

It seemed like the friendly thing to do.

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[synanthrope]

I do not really make friends.

[There's a brief pause]

Trustworthy enough that I would send you to him.

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[pike]

[ A pause. ]

Any other suggestions, Saya?

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[synanthrope]

Any other questions, Nigel?

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[pike]

[ Maybe amused. ]

How are the stitches?

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[synanthrope]

They itch. I'd like to take them out.

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[pike]

Not yet.

Though I'd be willing to look at them for you, if you'd like.

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[synanthrope]

I need to get back to work, so yes, look at them and make sure it's healing.

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[pike]

Have you not been working?

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[synanthrope]

Not to my usual extent. My assistant took time off, and so the only one in the garage has been my janitor.

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[pike]

The mime?