[CFUD: Backdated]

[boundbydevotion]

[Allen has finished with the "true form" effect and concerned parties have alternatively fed him, made him cry, or made him go to sleep. In any case he is resting for the night, and Link has grabbed a tabbed notebook and a pen and gone to sit outside to write.]

Comments

[boundbydevotion]

[patiently staring back?]

[allmadeofstars]

[. . . slowly starting to piece things together, remember where he is, remember what happened . . .]

. . .

[boundbydevotion]

[assumes he isn't getting his hand back and takes a seat at the edge of the bed]

[allmadeofstars]

. . .

[blink. blinkblinkblinkblink]

What are you . . . why . . .?

[boundbydevotion]

Why did I wake you? It did not seem you were resting any better than when awake, so I thought this would at least spare you the nightmares.

[allmadeofstars]

. . .

No, that's not what I meant . . .

[boundbydevotion]

[waits again. Or maybe is thinking]

[allmadeofstars]

[slowly releases his wrist]

[boundbydevotion]

[When his wrist is released, catches Allen's hand in his and puts his other over it, then takes a deep breath.]

[allmadeofstars]

. . .

[eyes go very wide]

[boundbydevotion]

In light of recent events, I believe some changes in our arrangement need to be made. Do you not agree, Walker?

[allmadeofstars]

Wh . . . what?

[boundbydevotion]

Seeing as I am the only ranking officer from Central available to deal with the situation here, it seems for the time being I will have to decide the best course of action without the sanction of my superiors. This is unfortunate, but necessary.

Up until now my primary role in monitoring you was only to watch and record your actions.

[allmadeofstars]

Ye . . . es?

[boundbydevotion]

That is no longer enough. Due to the 14th's reappearance here, it is clear that preventative measures must be taken.


I believe the best way, given our resources and where we are, is for Allen Walker to forge stronger bonds.

[allmadeofstars]

. . .

. . . what?

[boundbydevotion]

Stronger bonds, Walker. You have in the past suffered a deep loss and another more recently. While we have the time available it would be best if you could make new, significant connections to those around you as these bonds will serve to ground you.

[allmadeofstars]

. . .

You . . . you want me to make friends?

[boundbydevotion]

I would suggest it, yes. I myself will be doing what I can in this direction as well. Is this acceptable?

[allmadeofstars]

You—wait, what?

[boundbydevotion]

It will not involve a large change, as I cannot shirk the duties given to me previously, but given the situation it seems like a feasible adjustment. I have no one to report to and you have currently returned to yourself, so I do not intend to take any other action than those I have stated now unless something truly dire arises.

I would like you to feel comfortable considering me something beyond just your keeper.

[allmadeofstars]

. . . you . . .

[allmadeofstars]

You're—you're not—

[allmadeofstars]

R-really!?

[boundbydevotion]

...?

Yes, I am. Really.

...I think. You'll have to speak in full sentences soon, Walker. I cannot mind-read.