vi. text

[firstroar]

I'm glad so many are turning their energies toward each other, holding events that can distract from the unpleasant atmosphere outside of the Hold.
Yet even so, resentment and suspicion remain, coming from the hearts of the inhabitants of this city and island. Jealousy, too, in places. I wondered at first, but...
How is it we are sent to see the sun in a cleaner sky while the people this whole, abstract idea was built for linger in this gloomy place? It was safe enough, given the strengths of many of us here. Many good people. And even then, some would say the benefits outweigh the risks and take the chance regardless of threat.
I only know if it were myself denied the sun and strangers given the means to see it, I am sure I would be resentful, too. And as much as I could and do understand the notion of keeping safe...it almost seems crueler, to remain trapped here with no respite.

Comments

[firstroar]

I do believe you. And you are right. Even our respite had some weak purpose besides our happiness in mind.

[legal_eagle]

Assuming that wasn't BS, of course.

[firstroar]

"BS"?

[legal_eagle]

[Oh right, um - ]

"BS" = "a lie"

[firstroar]

I see.
You are right. I cannot speak to those in direct control of these excursions, but I have felt earnest sympathy from those Initiative members who directly work with us.
Confusion, too. And doubt. But that seems appropriate to me.

[legal_eagle]

Sure. And have you felt any prevaricating?

[firstroar]

I have. But I have not delved deeply to find their sources. Things that I cannot detect openly are things I let alone.

[legal_eagle]

"Things you cannot detect openly"

Mentally, you mean?

[firstroar]

Yes. There are many thoughts and feelings here that flow unchecked, and rightly so. These people are not conditioned with the notion those things can be sensed beyond themselves.

[legal_eagle]

Sorry, how far does your gift reach? Can you read whomever, whenever?

[firstroar]

It depends. It's not very different from standing in crowds, hearing them talk and interact aloud. Some things can be heard because they speak loud enough to be, or are close enough to be heard...others more candid, withdrawn, and harder to discern unless it's something to be looked for.
My range is greater when I seek out someone I am familiar with.

[legal_eagle]

You ask permission, right?

[firstroar]

For every instance? It would be near impossible. It would be like apologizing to each person one passes by for seeing them, for hearing them.

[legal_eagle]

So when we talked, were you reading me?

[firstroar]

I could hear you. And see them...notions of memories and places. Pieces of what that story meant to you.

[legal_eagle]

Don't do that again.

[firstroar]

It is not so simple.

[legal_eagle]

I don't care how simple it is or isn't. I am not okay with that.

[firstroar]

It is not something I can change. It as part of me as breathing.

[legal_eagle]

You can hold your breath

[firstroar]

You fear me delving into your heart.
I will not.

[legal_eagle]

No I don't. I don't get afraid of things. I'm mad.

[firstroar]

Then I understand.
I apologize.

[legal_eagle]

[A pause, then:]

It's fine. People just ask beforehand where I come from. Or get a warrant.

[firstroar]

Yet still live.