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Chapter 16

Multiple messages flooded in. That day, the telegram was printing like crazy that it heated up hot enough to fry eggs on top. I manually fanned the machine so it didn’t burn out. Funny because I’m burnt out :D aNywAYs-

I was surprised none of the papers inside the machine caught on fire. I didn’t think I was capable of battling any flames. The urgent patter of footsteps was enough to pique my interest. I peeked around the door frame to find the captain pacing. His face hardened when he caught me watching him. I sheepishly turned away to focus on the sudden thrums of vehicles coming into the garage.

The telegram was forgotten since then and I followed the captain who briskly walked out to the source of the noise. As I approached the noise, I noticed that the extra beddings around were moved to a space in the communal area, set up in a neat array. I guessed that this was one of the alliance conditions; provide refuge to other alliance groups in need. 

On short notice, what remained of the group, came hobbling in, some carried on the backs of others and whisked into an area turned into a makeshift infirmity ward. I was tasked to assist Seonghwa who bustled to and fro along with an able bodied member from the crew who sought for refuge. San was also ordered to close up wounds. The injuries inflicted were severe.

Several required multiple stitches. All the patients I attended looked at me in surprise or shock. They didn’t comment on anything since I never really engaged in any conversation (not that I could) and left them to continue to zone out or pass out from exhaustion. The last of them had settled down and I sank into a chair, my legs numb and feet aching from rushing around. 

“I believe we haven’t met before.” 

I turned to a friendly looking girl to my side. She had a sling for her left arm. She sat down next to me, intrigued by my existence coinciding with her existence in this plane of the space-time continuum. She extended her hand out. I simply stared down at it. Melodious laughter bubbled from her lips as she noticed my confusion. 

“I’m Cynthia.” 

I stayed unmoving, struggling with eye contact but also trying to memorise her name and a face to put the name to. I formed her name on my lips multiple times. She watched in confusion and amusement. 

“I see you’re not much of a talker.”
I awkwardly nod, lips stretched in a tight smile. 

“Well, I’ll leave you to it,” Cynthia got up, “it has been a long day.” 
I waved at her shyly and she returned it before disappearing from view. 

“ATZ, gather now, ATZ,” Seonghwa called. 

Homgjoong stood to the side, eyebrows furrowed deep in thought. I remained where I was, watching the others gather. Mingi took his place next to mine. 

“Black Tigers have made their move again. The group recuperating hasn't disclosed information yet though I do expect updates within three days at the latest.” Hongjoong surmised, “For now, we remain civil. Zia group is one of our close allies, we can’t have one of you messing up like last time.”

At the last part, Hongjoong threw Wooyoung and San a pointed look. The partners in crime feigned ignorance and avoided eye contact. Mingi leaned over to me. I turned to him in anticipation. 

“It’s actually a funny story, I’ll tell you later.” 

I anticipated the shenanigans the Woosan couple went through to elicit a warning from the captain. There were a few more reminders from the captain on the situation. I zoned out half the time. I returned just as the captain concluded the meeting.

“That is all.” The captain dismissed us and the others parted ways except for our couch potato asses that sank deeper into the couch. 

“You wanna hear it?”
I perked up at the invitation. I stared expectantly at him.