Compassion and Oblivion

Chapter Fourteen: The Community Center

Author's Note:

Happy Thanksgiving! I wanted to thank everyone for their support on my story, you all have been so kind! I hope you enjoy this chapter, this one was a lot of fun to write!

TW-Alcohol Mention

After leaving Sebastian's house, you noticed Linus fishing at the lake, so you stopped to say hello. He wasn't as fearful of you as the last time you'd seen him, and you had a polite conversation. You decided not to keep him long, you know you'll have to earn his trust gradually. Maybe I could bring him some warm food one day this week?

You also noticed a lanky man with rich mahogany skin, intently observing a patch of moss growing on the cliff side, over by the recently cleared pathway to the mineshaft. He pulled a pen from the pocket of his blue polo and began scribbling away at a clipboard. You realized the man must be Demetrius, environmental scientist, Robin's husband, and father to Maru.

You introduced yourself and had a brief conversation about what he's studying, but he used a lot of big, scientific words that wafted into one ear and right out the other. Science was never your forte in high school...

Shortly after, you received a text from Leah, inviting you to meet at her house to check out some of her sculptures. You happily agreed, and began making your way to Cindersap Forest.

On your way back to town, you pass through a large clearing that overlooks the town square. Nestled in the center and surrounded by bushes, trees, and a small playground, stands a decrepit structure that resembles a city hall. Large windows with ornate shutters sit on either side of the face of the building, barren flower boxes resting under each. In the center is a wide door carved from solid wood, stained a shade of deep cherry. A large clock rests above the door, permanently reading five o'clock. Moss and vines have grown over the rotting wood siding. It's certainly a sorry sight to behold, and much worse than the last time you'd seen it. Though it was abandoned when you used to come to Pelican Town in your youth, it's clearly taken a turn for the worse in the time that you'd been gone.

Mayor Lewis stands in front of the decrepit structure, looking dejected. You approach him quietly, moving to stand beside him, beholding the monstrosity.

Lewis turns to you, "Oh, hi there."

"Hiya, Mayor Lewis," you say politely.

"What an eyesore," the old man says with a frown. "This is the Pelican Town Community Center...or what's left of it, anyway."

"What happened to this place?" you inquire. "The building looks like it could be so beautiful."

"It used to be the pride and joy of the town, always bustling with activity. Now...just look at it. It's shameful. These days, the young folk would rather sit in front of the TV than engage with the community. But listen to me, I sound like an old fool." He takes a few steps closer to the building, with a thoughtful look on his face, as if he were reliving old memories. "Joja Corporation has been hounding me to sell them the land so they can turn it into a warehouse. Pelican Town could use the money, but there's something that's stopping me from selling it. I guess old timers like me get attached to old relics of the past." He turns back to you, and his face returns to a neutral expression. "Ah, well. If anyone else buys a Joja Co. Membership, I'm just gonna go ahead and sell it."

"Well," you begin, "I certainly don't plan on purchasing one, if it makes you feel any better."

The mayor chuckles, "That's what I like to hear. Here, let's go inside."