“Dr. Frankenstein.” “Answer succinctly, give a name and a purpo– ah, Outis. You’re… here. Are you having issues sleeping? I should have some medicine for it, if you need it.” “That’s not the purpose of my visit, worry not.” “Understood. Then, state your purpose. You know I hate cryptic and dubious orders.” “Companionship?” “Granted. Get over here, you stiff board.” “I don’t appreciate such comments from you, Mad Scientist.” “That’s not a mean nickname as much as it a slight overstatement, dear Drill Sergeant.” “Hm. That’s a new one.” “Haha… The red tinge on your cheek suggests that you’re embarrassed by it. Did I get you this time? I’d love to make a note of this small victory, if so.” “Don’t make me regret visiting you, Dr. Frankenstein. After the events we witnessed, you need additional support. I’m here to ensure you do not succumb to your negative feelings.” “Outis, you don’t need to keep up your formalities around me. I’m not a soldier you need to order around.” “Hm–right. I’m worried, is all, Victor.” “I’m fine. I’ll be fine. I’m interested in seeing where all the other sinners will place their blossoms. I already noticed that Gregor left his tucked into the window. How touching.” “Where I place mine will only be at the best advice from the Executive Manager.” “Not me?” “Er– or, you, perhaps.” Frankenstein laughed, laying on a tattered leather couch seated in the center of her private library. Outis followed suit. “...Victor.” “Yes?” “Does Baal’s death bother you?” “Call her Lynette, please. And… I don’t think it’s really settled yet. I have yet to truly process Adam’s death.” “That’s the first time you’ve called him by name.” “I didn’t even know he had a name until we were on our way out of the manor. I saw it on a photo, he even learned how to write. But I don’t wish to speak of him. You asked about Lynette?” “Mhm. The other sinners are shaken up about it. I understand death is a common thing, and such a frail child is no exception to it. Thusly, I do not worry unless the Executive Manager finds themselves incapable of coping.” Frankenstein blinked. She nodded to herself before responding. “I think I find it to be a good thing. There was no way she’d die a peaceful death if she continued, especially after what that man was doing to her. If it wasn’t from burning her core out, it would have been a greater force snuffing her light out. Knowing she passed on her own terms and to free herself – as well as those children – puts my heart at ease.” “I’ll return to what you mentioned before, then. Your blossom; where do you think it will go, Victor?” “I’m going to keep it on me until it has seen enough and withers naturally. There, Lynette can see the world until she deems her adventure to be over. It’s what I owe her.” “Your sentimentality confuses me, Victor.” “But it is the feature you admire most, is it not? Much like I admire your stability and devotion to our mock-up of a manager.” “Mm. Perhaps that is the case.”

August 4th, 18:33 After weeks of endless droning meals cooked with varying levels of care, I found myself presented with a pleasant desert plated by the delightful young Celia. She was sheepish in pushing the plate my way, even making the mask that concealed her face appear to be hidden behind her thick hair. What could she be so nervous about? Was she not confident in such an adorable treat? Quickly, I pushed one of the cream puffs into Outis’ mouth — I wasn’t going to let her commentary ruin the child’s already fickle confidence in her baking. Her expression seemed pleased amidst the surprise. That was already a good sign, as even Celia’s demeanor changed to show her delight that we were taking time to try her desserts. I found them to be simple and delicious. She sprinkled confectioner’s sugar on top and dotted them with chocolate to form little faces, ranging from sad to happy to confused, and even some resembling some of the other sinners. One had the same expression as her mask, and she made sure to keep that one in the center of the display. What an adorable plate full of decadent food. Would I offer critique? Certainly not, I’m not quite qualified to criticize sweets — i’ve seldom had many in my time. However, I made sure to show my gratitude by pushing back to Celia a spotless plate.