10. » private/video

[tolaywaste]

for ben

[His posture says it all: concerned, tense, but not afraid for his own safety. Not afraid at all. He's leaning towards the camera, though, like he can express worry just by being closer.]

Hey, Ben? I'm worried about you. Can you check in with me?

filter: bruce + rorschach + barbara

I'd like to help with Ben. I'm not as good at this as you all are, but point me where you need me and I'm there.

just bruce

Which means you're helping. He's my friend.

for oliver

I need your help with something, if you're willing to give it.

for charles

Check in. Did you hear about Ben?

Comments

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

He was alone in his cabin. But Charles checked, with permission. He's telling the truth.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

Then it's only a matter of time before the true culprit is caught.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

Yeah.

[He breathes out.]

Yeah. You're right.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

[A short pause, and then he switches the feed to audio.]

He'll be fine.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

[He breathes in. Out, again.]

He'll be fine.

[If he just says it enough times, he'll know. He - they - can make sure he's safe.]

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

[He's never been caring - or at least, that's not a word he would use for himself, no matter how much his family and friends would protest. Yet-]

Yes, he will.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

[Alex manages a smile. In, out.]

You're a good friend, you know that?

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

So I've been told.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

You're going to have to believe it eventually.

Rhade's looking for someone with enhanced senses, or somebody with a scanner. For the scene. Anything?

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

A good pair of eyes and a sharp mind can be just as useful. But if you can find someone like that, go ahead.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

But you'll check it out.

[Not a question. He knows.]

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

I'll let you know.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

Stay safe.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

I have nothing to worry about.

You take care of your friend.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

I have to worry about you.

But I will.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

It's... appreciated.

[Disconnect because he can't deal with you sometimes batfriend.]

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

[Later, text, even though he knows Bruce is watching.]

Look.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

[And audio flips back on, because he prefers that instead of typing right now.]

This is also likely. Good job.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

Uh - thanks.

I don't know if I'm the best person to talk to her.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

No, somebody acquainted with her might be a better idea. Or she might confess to it voluntarily, on the network.

[Faint disgust.]

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

Yeah. She might.

I can't decide if I hate her or not. Whether she did it or didn't, I think I should hate her either way.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

[His tone is patient, lightly chiding. A teacher, speaking to a student.]

Alex.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

Bruce?

. . . I'm getting distracted.

[Private]

[theonlyresponse]

Yes, you are.

[He's still patient, and he doesn't need to say Ben does not need your anger right now.]

Stay with your friend, and I'll meet you afterwards for training.

[Private]

[tolaywaste]

[He doesn't. Alex knows it - he knows what anger does. And Bruce knows how to quell it, at least temporarily.]

Yes sir. I'll be there.