Tangle of Need

ALICE

FROM: Lara

TO: Sascha;

Ashaya;

Tammy;

Amara

DATE: Sep 22, 2081 at 1.21 p.m.

SUBJECT: Patient A

I wanted to give you an update on the results of Sascha’s visit. Patient A’s mental activity has increased at an acute rate, and I have to say she’s significantly more “alert.” However, there are no signs of her rising to consciousness.

FROM: Amara

TO: Ashaya

CC: Lara;

Sascha;

Tammy

DATE: Sep 22, 2081 at 1.38 p.m.

SUBJECT: re: Patient A

It may be the optimal time to inject her with the new serum.

FROM: Ashaya

TO: Lara

CC: Amara;

Sascha;

Tammy

DATE: Sep 22, 2081 at 3.45 p.m.

SUBJECT: re: re: Patient A

I agree with Amara. However, we’ll need another seven to ten days to complete our final calibration of the serum—some of the tests take time to show results. Call me if you see any sign the patient is regressing. I’d rather not inject her with the serum as is, but if it’s a choice between taking the risk and her life, then I will.

Why do you make me use this archaic method of communication? I am not a primate only capable of tapping out primitive messages on a keyboard.

Because you need to learn to communicate with others.

Why?

Amara, you said you’d try.

Very well. Have you completed your analysis of section 2B3 of the Alliance neural chip?

Yes. It appears stable and secure. Your conclusions?

I concur. Let’s move to section 2B4.

Agreed. Amara … how are you?

Stable and secure.

Amara.

There is a male in the labs who speaks to me. I do not know why—he has nothing of relevance to say.

Perhaps he likes you.

Then he’s being irrational. I can’t like him back.

Talk to him anyway. You might find it an interesting interaction.

Unlikely, but I will consider it another step in my “rehab.”

Do you feel any different?

I no longer have psychopathic thoughts as often. I believe that could be termed progress.

You’re not a psychopath.

Or perhaps you simply don’t want me to be.