Dionysus Theater
9:30
Fast City
The Dionysus Theater has lost its elegance. Decorations fall and sculptures lie toppled over. Even the ceiling is at risk of collapse.
The well-dressed guests now scramble toward the exits, their screams and wails blending into a harsh, chaotic clamor.
Jonathan feels someone grab his sleeve as he passes a corner.
Go... Huff... Huff... No, not that way!
Why? The exit is that way.
...Fo... follow me.
The short sprint has left Dandelion breathless because she is used to sitting in a chair all day at work.
You should explain the causes and consequences when making demands, allowing others to decide whether to agree or disagree.
...I'm... not... your... defendant!
Very well, Miss Plaintiff. I believe following the crowd is safer if the enemies are targeting us.
Plain... you... I...
Dandelion's upbringing barely helps her swallow the curses that are brewing at the tip of her tongue.
Dandelion catches her breath, grits her teeth, and warns the man.
That's... huff... that's why we need to stay away from the crowd, because the enemy is coming for YOU!
Why do you think I went out of my way to warn you?!
...I appreciate the gesture, but without further evidence, I'm afraid I cannot...
Suddenly, a shriek erupts from behind them.
SKREEEEEEK—!
The wail gets closer in the blink of an eye and Jonathan's face turns white.
...I find your testimony extremely convincing now. I'll follow you.
Jonathan hastily quickens his pace.
After a few steps, he turns to grab Dandelion, who is struggling to keep up.
Let's go!
T-thank you.
The exit is right up ahead, but before they can relax, a rush of air pressure surges from behind them.
Watch out!
CLANG—
Instead of blood, they see a swift blue light dart past, piercing the monster behind them.
Right then, a car with its engine still running skids to a halt in front of the exit.
Hop in.
Jonathan sits in the back of the speeding car, occasionally glancing behind them, still trembling from the ordeal.
Dandelion, sitting in the front, rummages through the glove compartment before passing a medicine box and water to Jonathan, after taking some for herself.
Metolore.
Um...
Within moments, Jonathan visibly relaxes.
We should be safe now, right?
...Yes, everything in the theater was just her extension. We should be fine now that we've shaken them off.
Iris speaks in a soft, slow voice.
Ma'am, are you alright?
You can call me Iris.
Iris gestures toward Dandelion in the passenger seat as she speaks.
Dandelion.
Also known as Ms. Plaintiff. Hello.
Dandelion cuts Iris off and extends her hand with an expressionless face.
Jonathan awkwardly takes her hand and introduces himself.
Uh... hello everyone... my name is—AH!
Hi, Mr. Ah, nicknamed Jonathan. We know who you are.
Dandelion casually withdraws her hand, as if she wasn't the one who just crushed his fingers, then opens a notebook.
Jonathan, 31 years old, born in Fast.
Holds titles as Professor of International Political Relations and Expert in International Geopolitical Strategy. Special Consulting Advisor to the United Government's International Legal Office.
Current work involves reviewing Bane's legal provisions in preparation for the revision of "The New Earth Codex".
Dandelion looks at Jonathan, then asks a question, emphasizing each word.
Is the aforementioned information accurate?
...Meticulous, precise, and completely accurate.
Very good. Now then...
Dandelion...
Iris calls out to Dandelion, her voice weak with fatigue.
Can you drive?
Ah... Of course! I'm sorry, I didn't notice.
It's okay.
Iris nods and stops the vehicle. The two quickly switch seats.
Iris adjusts her seat and closes her eyes. Her breathing quickly becomes steady and rhythmic.
Seriously...
<size=30>Shhh—</size>
<size=30>Keep your voice down, I'll tell you whatever you want to know.</size>
<size=30>Let Iris sleep, she's exhausted.</size>