January 03, 2020. Friday. 11:47 AM
Metro Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.
(Sus feels nothing.)
Sus: …
(He opens his eyes, there's only darkness.)
Sus: Where am I?
(He strains his ears, there's only silence..)
Sus: What is this? Marcus?
(He reaches out blindly, his hands grasp only empty air.)
Sus: What happened to the chamber?
(He tries to smell, to taste, but there's nothing.)
Sus: Hello?
(He's trapped in a terrifying void of nothingness.)
Sus: Anyone? Hello! (voice raw with panic)
(His voice echoes in the emptiness, unanswered. He reaches out blindly, but his hands grasp only empty air. A blanket of silence presses in on, suffocating him.)
Sus: (shouting) Hello? Anyone? Am I… Dead?
(His desperate cries unheard. Silence usually calms him down, but this time it stresses him as all his other senses become absent as well. He shivers, his teeth chatter.)
Sus: (gasping for breath) No, no, no! I can't do this. Let me out! Marcus!
(He thrashes against the invisible walls, fear clawing at his throat.)
Sus: (internally) Fuck. I just… I just wanted to finish that damn report and go home.
(He kicks, he screams, but it's no use.)
Sus: (internally) Why can't things ever end?
(He's trapped, utterly alone, and the panic rises within him like a drowning tide.)
Sus: (internally) (his thoughts a frantic jumble) I need to do something. How much time has passed? Marcus said I only have a minute. (thinking) Wait… Maybe the voices?
(He claws at nothing, but his fingers find no purchase. He's powerless, adrift in a sea of nothingness.)
Sus: (shouting) Hello? Anybody?
(Nothing)
Sus: Faint Voices? Are you there?
(Nothing)
Sus: Answer me, please!
(Sus felt nothing)
Sus: …
Faint Voices: SGVsbG8sIFNlbnNpdGl2ZSE=
(Shallow whispers emerge from nothing, a chorus of alien voices that slither into his mind, burrowing deep into his consciousness. Skin prickling with goosebumps)
Faint Voices: SGVsbG8/
(They speak in a language he doesn't understand, a terrifying symphony of sounds that grate against his sanity.)
Sus: (whimpering) (his voice barely audible) What... What are you saying? Why... Why can't I understand you?
Faint Voices: V2VsY29tZSBiYWNrLCBtYXN0ZXIh
(The whispers intensify, swirling around him like a malevolent wind. Still incomprehensible, their strange rhythm and cadence a terrifying counterpoint to the silence.)
Sus: (internally) Agh! This seems harsher than yesterday.
Faint Voices:
(He tries to block them out, but they only grow louder, more insistent, their chilling whispers seeping into his very core.)
Faint Voices: V2UgYXJlIHlvdXJzISBXZSBhcmUgeW91cnMhIFdlIGFyZSB5b3VycyE=
Sus: (internally) (voice breaking) Okay. Stop… Please… Make it stop… I dont… I don't understand… I don't understand you!
Faint Voices: WW91IGtub3cgdGhpcy4gWW91IGtub3cgdGhpcy4=
Sus: (internally) Ack! I don't think I have a lot of time left. Fuck. Life was so basic and simple. Why can't it be just like that? Normal.
Faint Voices: Rm9jdXMhIEZvY3VzIQ==
Sus: (internally) Boss Maria, Kevin, Rachel, I was so okay helping them at work.
Faint Voices: Rm9jdXMhIEZvY3VzIQ==
Sus: (internally) Filing reports, preparing data, sharing insights with them. My life and work was okay. I want okay…
Faint Voices: Rm9jdXMhIEZvY3VzIQ==
Sus: (internally) Why can't life be just okay…
(He curls into a fetal position, his body trembling uncontrollably. He's lost in the darkness, consumed by fear and despair. The faint voices continue their relentless assault, their whispers a chilling reminder of his isolation and helplessness.)
Faint Voices: VGVsbCB1cyB3aGF0IHRvIGRvISBUZWxsIHVzIHdoYXQgdG8gZG8h
Sus: (sobs wrack his body, his voice a broken whisper) I... I just want to be okay…
(He thrashes against the walls of nothing, his hands grasping at empty air. He tries to scream, but he can't even hear his voice. He's trapped, utterly alone, and the panic threatens to consume him.)
Faint Voices: RmluZCB5b3VzZWxm
Sus: (internally) (his thoughts racing) Is this what death is? Just nothing?
(He brings his hands to his face, his fingers tracing the contours of his cheeks, his nose, his lips.)
Sus: (internally) No feelings. No anything. Just… Nothing? Does this mean I have no body anymore?
Faint Voices: WWVzIQ==
(He feels the warmth of his own skin, the soft tickle of his hair against his forehead. It's a small sensation, but it's something. It's a reminder that he still exists, that he's still alive.)
Sus: (internally) (surprised) Hmm. Okay. (curious) At least that's some sign I'm still… breathing.
Faint Voices: Z29vZCBqb2Ih
(He starts to explore his own body, his fingers running over his arms, his legs, his chest. He feels the rise and fall of his breath, the steady beat of his heart.)
Sus: (internally) Somehow I can still feel my… body. But I can't see or hear anything. How am I going to get out of this?
Faint Voices: RmluZCB5b3VyIGNvcmUh
(It's a strange sensation, both familiar and different, but it's a welcome distraction from the nothingness that surrounds him.)
Faint Voices: Z29vZCBqb2Ih
Sus: (internally) Huh? What's this? (curious again)
(His fingers brush against something in his pocket. He reaches in and pulls out a small, round object. It's the soda-flavored lollipop that Maria gave him earlier.)
Sus: (internally) (bittersweet) Boss Maria…
Faint Voices: U3VyaSE=
Sus: (ignoring the voices) This is…
(He remembers her warm smile, her encouraging words. He thinks about his team, Kevin and Rachel, and the camaraderie they shared. He longs to be back, working or just hanging alongside them, sharing jokes and ideas.)
Faint Voices: U3VyaSE=
Sus: (internally) Thanks for this, Boss. (feeling the wrapper of the lollipop, trying to open it.) These lollipops of yours really calm us down during meetings.
(He unwraps the lollipop and pops it into his mouth. The sweet, fizzy flavor explodes on his tongue, a welcome sensation in the overwhelming emptiness. He closes his eyes, savoring the taste, the texture, the feeling of something real in his mouth.)
Faint Voices: U3VyaSE=
Sus: (internally) If I'm dead now, or if I'm dying, I don't know anymore. I'm content my last moment's spent with Boss Maria's candy.
(He sucks on the lollipop, the artificial flavor a small comfort in the face of oblivion. The faint voices continue their relentless assault, but he ignores them, focusing on the taste of the candy, the feeling of it melting on his tongue.)
Faint Voices: U3VyaSE=
Sus: (internally) I'm okay… (closes his eyes) I'm okay… (continues to savor the taste and smell of flavors coming from Maria's lollipop)
(He gave up hoping and decided he's going to savor this last moment, this last connection to the world he knows and loves.)
(Sus is at peace.)
Unknown Voice: Hello?
(As Sus savors the remaining vestiges of the lollipop, a new sensation cuts through the complete silence - a voice. Small, calm, and strangely familiar.)
Sus: (surprised) Huh?
(Sus's eyes snap open, his heart pounding in his chest.)
Unknown Voice: I'm really sorry! Can you understand me now? Hello?
(Surprised, Sus wonders why he is suddenly hearing a voice from nowhere. A seemingly youthful and androgynous yet still calm and soothing tone a bit ethereally giving him a warm and reassuring mood.)
Sus: (wondering) What? Who's there? Faint Voice?
Unknown Voice: Sorry, I'm not them, Sus. I'm the one who lets you hear them.
(Sus frowns, his brow furrowing in confusion. He opens his eyes and looks around, but the darkness is still absolute. Only hearing a somewhat mixture of both high and low pitch tone of a young person combined into one voice talking to him.)
Sus: I don't understand. Where are you? Who are you?
Unknown Voice: I am here! (eager)
Sus: (a bit frustrated) Where?!
Unknown Voice: (apologetic) I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Let me do something about that.
(A swirling mist gathers in front of Sus, coalescing into a shape he can finally perceive. It floats in the darkness, about 1/4 the size of Sus's body, a mesmerizing sphere-shaped spectacle of swirling patterns and glowing lights.)
Sus: (Astonished) What... What is that… floating ball with eyes?
Suri: (Voice filled with remorse) Master, please forgive me! I am Suri, your Sense-Core. I have been here, but I was... dormant. I apologize for taking so long.
(Suri's form shimmers with a soft, ethereal luminosity. The swirling marks on its surface seem to writhe and shift, like liquid metal. The gleaming lights pulsate with a gentle rhythm, casting an eerie luminescence in the darkness.)
Sus: (intrigued) You… You're my… Sense-Core? I didn't know I could talk to you. Why are you sorry?
Suri: (voice laced with shame) I have failed you, Master. I was supposed to help you, to guide you, to protect you, but I failed. I allowed you to suffer in silence, to be overwhelmed by the chaos of your senses. I am so sorry.
(Suri's form seems to shrink slightly, as if cowering. The spiraling patterns become more agitated, and the radiant lights flicker with uncertainty.)
Sus: (empathizing with Suri) Hey, it's okay. You're here now. We can figure out a way to get out of here now.
Suri: (filled with gratitude) Thank you, Master. I promise to make it up to you. I am still weak but I will help you!
Sus: (internally) I'm not sure if I'm just finally going crazy but this is better than nothing.
Suri: I'm very real, Master. For sure!
Sus: (surprised) Wow. You can even hear my thoughts, huh. I guess I'll never really know if I'm not crazy. (faintly laughing) Rachel mentioned Sense-Cores earlier. What are you exactly?
Suri: I'm really sorry! I am a part of you, Master. A manifestation of your Sensitivity. I am here to help you talk to everything around you.
Sus: (realizing purpose) So you're sort of my translator so I can understand my surroundings, right?
Suri: Yes! Indeed. I assist you in navigating around the world.
(Suri's form expands slightly, as if emboldened by Sus's words. The swirling motifs become more fluid and harmonious, and the glowing lights shine with renewed purpose.)
Suri: I will help you, Master.
Sus: Okay then, let's figure a way out of this, Suri. Thank you! And drop the master, just call me Sus. (a bit more determined)
Suri: Sus… is your name now? Noted, Master… I'm sorry! (panicking) I mean, Sus!
(Suri's form bobs gently in the darkness, its patterns pulsing with a soft, calming light.)
Suri: Uhm… Sus. I… I can walk you through what's happening.
Sus: (listening intently) Okay, Suri. Let's hear it.
Suri: I gather your Sensitive Energy, the bridge between you and the world around you.
Sus: (amazed) So without you, Sensitives can really have a hard time understanding this, right? That's why the voices earlier were weird?
Suri: Yes, correct. Sense-Cores help Sensitives collect and process memories from everywhere, to understand what's around them.
Sus: (eyes widening with wonder) Incredible. It's like having an AI-Assistant but even better. If every human has these… these abilities, maybe the world could be a bit better? (frowning)
Suri: (chuckling softly) In a way, yes. But a Sense-Core is not without limits. It depends on the skills of the Sensitive, on how well they can handle the gifts.
Sus: (grinning) Hmm. Yeah. I can only imagine how this might end if not properly handled. Oof.
Suri: Indeed, Sus. For now, it might be best for us to focus on getting out of this here.
Sus: (Nodding) Right. Let's figure this out. What can you tell me about where we are right now? I'm not seeing or hearing anything except us.
Suri: Yes, it seems like they have some way of dampening the five senses or over-loading them. We need to unlock more energy to gather more information.
Sus: (agreeing) Okay, yes. How do we do that?
Suri: You need to focus and concentrate. Find your balance. Like what you did before you heard me. What did you do before then?
(Suri's form pulsates with a soft, warm light, its gyrating markings shifting gently.)
Suri: Try to remember what you were doing during those times you were able to manage being overwhelmed by the voices. What were you doing? What were you feeling?
Sus: (eyes closed in concentration) Hmm. I was... I was trying to block them out. Trying to focus on something else.
Suri: Yes, that's it. It's important to relax and focus to harness your sensitivity. Remember those times when you were able to find that balance.
Sus: (a memory flickers in his mind) Wait... Kevin gave me noise-canceling headphones. They were very helpful when I was at my apartment.
Suri: (voice gentle and encouraging) That's a good start, but think deeper. Did the headphones truly relax you, or did they simply block out the senses?
Sus: (thinking harder) Hmm. Now that you mentioned it, I don't really remember feeling relaxed when I had them on. I just felt... numb.
Suri: Exactly. The headphones were a crutch, a temporary solution. But you need to find a way to understand your senses, not just block them out.
Sus: (another memory surfaces) Wait a minute... I remember now. At TxF, I smoked with Chris before I took the headphones off. And at my house, even when I took them off, I was able to manage the voices. I smoked before I took them off.
Suri: (excitedly) Yes! That's the feeling we're looking for. The focus, the clarity, the calm.
Sus: (eyes widening with realization) So... smoking helps me focus my sensitivity?
Suri: Not exactly, but it's a starting point.
Sus: (fumbling in his pockets) Damn it, I don't have any smokes left. I smoked my last piece this morning.
Suri: (voice soothing) Don't worry. There's another way. Remember how you were able to find me in this chamber? How did you calm down?
Sus: (thinking back) I... I started to accept death. And then... I found Maria's lollipop in my pocket. I was consuming it when I heard you.
Suri: That's it, Sus! That feeling! What did you do to get that feeling? Helping you to relax and focus.
Sus: (eyes lighting up with hope) The lollipop? You think…?
Suri: It's worth a try!
(Sus quickly unwraps the remaining lollipop and puts it in his mouth. The sweet, soda flavor explodes on his tongue, and he closes his eyes, focusing on the taste, the texture, the feeling of it melting in his mouth.)
Sus: (takes a deep breath) I'm… I'm okay…
(He remembers Maria, her warm smile and encouraging words. He thinks about his team, Kevin and Rachel, and the camaraderie they share. He longs to be back in the office, working alongside them, just being with his friends.)
Sus: (internally) I can't end here. Help me, Suri. Get me back to Boss Maria.
(As Sus focuses on these positive memories, Suri's form begins to glow brighter, its shifting patterns intensifying. The darkness around them seems to pulsate with anticipation.)
Sus: …
Suri: …
(Sus's eyes widen as he focuses on the sweet, fizzy flavor of the lollipop. A faint sound cuts through the darkness and silence.)
Tik Tik Tik Tik
Sus: Wait, Suri, I think I hear something...
Suri: What is it, Sus?
Sus: It's like... a ticking sound.
Tik Tik Tik Tik
Suri: Good! I'm searching for it. Keep it up. Focus, Sus!
Tik Tik Tik Tik
(Suri's whirlpool-like patterns intensify as it strains to hear the sound.)
Sus: It's getting louder.
Tik Tik Tik Tik
Suri: I can hear it too, Sus. It's faint, but it's definitely there.
Sus: What is it? Where's it coming from?
Suri: I don't know yet. It's difficult to pinpoint the source with our senses being dampened.
Tik Tik Tik Tik
Sus: (his voice trembles with fear) Suri, I remember Marcus saying that this test can cause permanent damage if we're in here for too long.
Suri: I know, Sus. But we need to remain calm. Panic will only make things worse.
Tik Tik Tik Tik
Sus: (trying to think clearly) The ticking... It sounds like… Maybe it's some kind of clock. Or maybe some kind of movement that's aligned with time.
Suri: Thank you, Sus! That may be what we're looking for. It could be a timer or a countdown sequence
(The ticking sound grows louder, echoing through the chamber.)
Suri: Keep focusing, Sus. We're close.
Sus: (clenching his fists) I'm trying, Suri. I'm trying.
Tik Tik Tik Tok
(Suri closes its eyes, its form glowing brightly as it reaches out into the void.)
Tik Tik Tok Tok
(The ticking sounds start to morph, becoming clearer, more distinct.)
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Sus: Suri, what's happening?
Suri: (to the void) Hello? Please hear us. We need help!
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Sus: It seems to be... all around us. Like the chamber is talking.
Suri: (voice takes on a determined tone) Then we'll talk to the chamber.
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Sus: (confused) Talk to the chamber?
Suri: Yes, Sus. Remember, Sensitives can connect with their surroundings. Even inanimate objects.
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Sus: (eyes widening with understanding) How do we do that?
Suri: It's worth a try. Focus your senses, Sus. Let me reach out to the chamber. Listen.
(Sus closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, and focuses on the humming sound. He tries to connect with the chamber, to sense its presence.)
Suri: (whispering) Chamber... Can you hear me?
(A moment of silence. Then, a deep, resonant voice fills the chamber.)
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Chamber: Who dares disturb us?
Sus: (gasps) It... it answered!
Suri: (excitedly) Yes, Sus! Now, ask it what that ticking sound is.
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Sus: (to The Chamber) (swallowing his fear) Chamber, what is that ticking sound?
Chamber: (to Sus) That, Sensitive, is the sound of your doom. We were instructed to do this.
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Sus: (to The Chamber) (his heart pounding) Doom? What do you mean?
Chamber: (to Sus) I am counting down. When the alarm sounds, your time is up.
Suri: (to The Chamber) (its voice sharp with urgency) What happens when the alarm sounds?
Tik Tok Tik Tok
Chamber: (to Sus and Suri) We will make you feel... EVERYTHING!
Sus: (clenching his fists) We'll see about that. Suri, we need to find another way out. This chamber is small. If we can hear the sound now, even without seeing, we can find and maybe disable the timer.
Suri: (to Sus) (agreeing) Sounds like a plan. Keep focusing! I'll find our direction.
(Suri's form glows brightly, its swirling markings moving faster.)
Sus: (to The Chamber) If you can't help us, can you at least tell us how much time we have left?
Chamber: Ten
Sus: Suri, we don't have a lot of time left.
Chamber: Nine
Suri: Focus, Sus!
Chamber: Eight
Sus: (punching through air) We'll find you!
Chamber: Seven
Suri: Point to your right!
Chamber: Six
Sus: (starting to feel a metal sheet) We found it!
Chamber: Five
Suri: (positive) Let's go! Give it all!
Chamber: Four
Sus: (punching the metal sheet) Agh! It's too tough! I… I can't break it!
Chamber: Three
Suri: (panicking) Let's give it everything, Sus!
Chamber: Two
Sus: (uncertain) Oh no. We're not gonna make it!
January 03, 2020. Friday. 11:48 AM
Metro Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.
(The heavy door of the chamber creaked open, bathing the space in the harsh fluorescent light of the facility. Sus and Suri blinked, momentarily blinded after the prolonged darkness.)
Sus: (internally) What's happening now?
Suri: It seems like you're free?
(As his vision adjusted, the familiar sight of the chamber's interior swam into focus - the cold metallic walls, the blinking lights of the control panel, and the faint hum of the machinery.)
Sus: (internally) H… How? Did I hit the chamber controls? (doubtful)
(Sounds began to filter back in - the distant murmur of voices, the whirring of the ventilation system, the muffled footsteps echoing down the hallway.)
Sus: (internally) Whoa. I can… Hear things again. But the faint voices. Not as loud. Suri?
Suri: (agreeing) Yes, that would be me. I try my best every time to make sure you only get essential information from around you. I won't let them talk to you until you want to, Sus!
(The sudden influx of auditory input was overwhelming at first, but a welcome relief after the nothingness of silence.)
Sus: (internally) So what really happened? (peeking out the chamber's door)
(A small, elderly woman with a stern expression stepped into the chamber, followed by a visibly agitated Marcus. The woman's gaze settled on Sus, her eyes narrowed in scrutiny. )
Unknown Woman: (to Marcus) Marcus, why are you playing hard on this young man and cranking up the levels of the test too high? I believe Maria told you to take care of him, did she not?
Marcus: (stammering) I apologize, Manang. I'm just making sure The Cloud is not penetrating our ranks.
Sus: (internally) Manang? Who is she?
Manang: (to Marcus) The chain of command should be respected, enforcer.
Sus: (interrupting) Excuse me, but what's going on? Who are you?
(Manang's lips curled into a wry smile. )
Manang: (to Sus) Well, hello there, Mr. Magno. I believe your test has concluded. Mr. Lee here, will send us the results later, won't you, Mr. Lee? (to Marcus)
Marcus: (to Manang) Yes, ma'am. I will email the results shortly.
Manang: (firmly) Very good. Though I believe Mr. Magno may have just shown that he is one of us. No non-Sensitive person could have survived what you put him through, Mr. Lee. Shame on you.
Marcus: (to Manang) Apologies, ma'am.
Sus: (internally) Who is this "Manang"?
(Sus and Suri observe the petite elderly woman with a youthful complexion. She was dressed in a crisp, clean sundress and had a warm smile on her face.)
Suri: (whispering) I can't tell where she's from based on what we can hear but she seems to have good intentions, Sus.
Sus: (internally) (curious) Oh. Okay, so I guess I'm a Sound Sensitive then, right? We listen to things?
Suri: As of the moment, yes, you are correct. Your Sound Sense is dominant.
Sus: (internally) Interesting. I guess this is really more useful when things around us are moving. Otherwise, we can't learn much from silence. Hmm. (intrigued.)
Suri: (adding details) Not necessarily, with sufficient Sensitive Energy, even the faintest vibrations emitted by seemingly inert objects can be perceived.
Sus: (internally) Wow. That's fascinating. I wonder how Kevin detects different frequencies. Maybe this is why it was easy for me to use this last night at TxF.
Manang: (to Sus) (flicking her fingers) Mr. Magno? Are you still with us? Did you get what I'm saying?
Sus: (startled) Oh. Oh. I'm sorry! I'm sorry, Ms. Madame Manang Ma'am. I… I wasn't…
Marcus: (looking at Sus annoyed) (to Manang) See? He doesn't even care.
Manang: (to Marcus) I will be the judge of that, Mr. Lee.
Sus: (internally) Suri, what did she say?
Suri: (stressed) Oh no! I don't know! We weren't focused! AGHHHH!
Sus: (internally) Hey! Calm down! I can't calm down if you can't calm down!
Suri: I'm so sorry!! (breathes deeply)
Manang: (to Sus) As I was saying earlier, Mr. Magno, I'm here to escort you back to Ms. Hernandez's office and debrief you on the situation.
Sus: (to Manang) Okay, ma'am. But… where are they? If I may ask.
Manang: (to Sus) Yes, you may ask, Mr. Magno. They are attending a very urgent matter. Let's go for now. (to Lee) Please hand him his protective gear, Mr. Lee.
Marcus: (to Sus) Here's your noise-cancelling headphones. (condescendingly)
Sus: (to Marcus) Thanks. (still puzzled) (internally) Maybe this guy's really just a jerk.
Suri: Yes, resume using that for now. It should be helpful as we charge your Sensitive Energy.
Sus: (wears back the headphones) (internally) Okay, thanks, Suri. Good thing these headphones are very comfortable. I wonder who made these.
Manang: (to Sus) Let's proceed, Mr. Magno.
(Manang and Sus exit the facility. Sus, still wary, observes the surroundings with newfound awareness.)
Sus: (internally) I can't believe I'm out of there. That Marcus guy almost killed me. But at least that's over.
(They walk in silence for a moment, the pristine white walls of the Metro Center gleaming under the bright fluorescent lights.)
Suri: Very fascinating place, isn't it?
Sus: (internally) Yeah. Just wow. This place.
(Sus takes in the details he never noticed before - the sleek security cameras discreetly positioned in the corners, the large screens displaying real-time data, the subtle hum of advanced detection systems.)
Sus: (internally) I never realized how much security there was here. It makes sense, though, considering this is a facility for Sensitives.
Suri: Most of the devices in this area now are gathered from all over the south-east asian region, it seems.
Manang: (breaking the silence) Mr. Magno, I understand this is a lot to take in, but I assure you, you're not alone. Late bloomers are rare, but they do appear every now and then.
Sus: (to Manang) So I'm really a late bloomer?
Manang: (to Sus) Yes, it seems. A Sensitive who develops their abilities later in life. When I was younger, I helped late bloomers like you navigate this world. It can be quite overwhelming at first, especially without guidance.
(They pass by a holographic display showcasing the history of Metro, images of Maria's leadership and the company's growth flashing before their eyes.)
Manang: (to Sus) Sensitivity is a gift, Mr. Magno, one that is usually passed down through bloodlines. Those born with it are trained from a young age to control and harness their abilities.
Sus: (to Manang) So, what about me? How did I become a Sensitive?
Manang: (to Sus) That, Mr. Magno, is something we're still trying to understand. It seems that your Sensitivity was dormant, waiting to be awakened.
Sus: (internally) I still don't know what triggered this. Stress? Smoking?
Suri: I'm not sure too, Sus. But we will find out!
(They reach a grand oak door, the words "Maria Hernandez - CEO" engraved in gold lettering. Manang opens the door, revealing a spacious office filled with modern technology and elegant furniture.)
Manang: (to Sus) The Sensitive Council ensures we use our abilities for the betterment of our world. That's why organization and understanding are crucial, especially for late bloomers like you.
Sus: (to Manang) Alright, Manang…
(Manang and Sus enter Maria's office. The spacious room is bathed in soft, natural light filtering through large windows overlooking the city.)
Sus: (internally) (in awe) Even her belongings are magnificent.
(The décor is minimalist and elegant, with clean lines and a calming color palette. A few carefully chosen pieces of art adorn the walls, and a collection of trophies and awards gleam on a shelf, testaments to Maria's achievements.)
Sus: (internally) Even if Metro's just a front, she still excelled on her work. I wonder how she does in the Sensitive world.
(They sit down on comfortable chairs facing a large, polished desk. Manang gestures to a sleek, glass teapot and matching cups.)
Manang: (to Sus) May I offer you some tea, Mr. Magno? It's a special blend that helps to calm the mind and focus the senses.
Sus: (to Manang) Thank you, Manang. (internally) I'd love me a cup of coffee, to be honest.
(Manang pours the tea, the fragrant steam swirling upwards. Sus takes a sip, the warm, soothing liquid spreading through him.)
Suri: (hearing the tea pouring) This mix really came from rare herbs and the water's temperature is just right for them to release calming elements.
Sus: (internally) Wow. Just from hearing the pour, you gathered that information?
Suri: Correct! That's how we get to understand more about your surroundings!
Sus: (to Manang) This smells really nice. It's similar to the drink Rachel gave me earlier..
Manang: (to Sus) Yes, it's the same blend. We find it both a helpful and delightful drink. It goes well with biscuits too. (smiling)
(She takes a seat opposite Sus, her expression kind but serious.)
Manang: (to Sus) Mr. Magno, are you alright? How was the Sensory Chamber experience for you?
Sus: (to Manang) It was... intense. At first, there was nothing. No sights, no sounds, no sensations at all. It was terrifying. Then, the voices came. They were faint at first, but they grew louder and louder, swirling around me like a vortex. I couldn't understand what they were saying, but they seemed to be trying to control me.
(He pauses, taking another sip of tea.)
Sus: (to Manang) Then Suri appeared.
Manang: (to Sus) Suri?
Sus: (to Manang) My Sense-Core. (paused to realize) Wait... You can't see it can't you?
(Manang nods slowly.)
Manang: (to Sus) Indeed, Mr. Magno, only you can connect to Suri. That's how Sense-Cores work. They are a manifestation of your own Sensitivity, visible only to you.
Sus: (to Manang) So I'm not crazy?
Suri: (floating over Sus's shoulder) She's right! Only you can talk to me.
Manang: (to Sus) No, Mr. Magno, you're not crazy. You're a Sensitive. And Suri is your guide and companion on this new journey.
(She leans forward, her gaze intent.)
Manang: (to Sus) Sense-Cores usually awaken at the early stages of a Sensitive's life. Families then spend time training their children to manage and control their gifts.
Sus: (in awe) That early, hmm.
Manang: (to Sus) There are some cases, however, when Sensitives don't learn how to control them. In those cases, the Sense-Cores can take control over the Sensitive, and that can lead to trouble.
Sus: (to Manang) So, I need to learn to control Suri?
Manang: (to Sus) You need to learn to work with Suri, Mr. Magno, to harness your abilities and use them for good.
Suri: I am here for you, Sus. Just tell me what to do.
(She pauses, her expression thoughtful.)
Manang: (to Sus) Some theorize that Sense-Cores are really the manifestation of a Sensitive's true being, but this is yet to be confirmed.
Sus: (to Manang) I don't know what to think. This is all so new to me.
Manang: (to Sus) I understand, Mr. Magno. But don't worry. We'll help you. We'll teach you everything you need to know about being a Sensitive.
(She smiles warmly.)
Manang: (to Sus) Welcome to the world of Sensitives, Mr. Magno.
(Sus sips his tea, not knowing what a proper reaction should be. A stream of silence occurred.)
Manang: (to Sus) So, Mr. Magno, tell me, what do you do here at Metro?
Sus: (to Manang) I'm a Financial Analyst. I work with all teams to help them make better decisions about where to allocate their resources. I gather and analyze data, identify trends, and develop financial models to forecast future performance.
(Sus leans back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face.)
Sus: (to Manang) I know it might sound boring to some people, but I really enjoy my work. I like the challenge of piecing together different bits of information to form a clear picture. It's like solving a puzzle, and it's very satisfying when I can help my team make a good decision.
Manang: (to Sus) I see. And what about your colleagues? How do you get along with them?
Sus: (to Sus) I'm very lucky to be working with a great team. Kevin became my best friend. He's always got a smile on his face and a joke to tell. Rachel is also a great friend. She's always full of energy and new ideas.
(Sus smiles, a hint of warmth in his eyes.)
Sus: (to Manang) Starting a job at Metro gave me a place where I finally found peace. The work can be a bit hectic sometimes, but working with people like Kevin and Rachel makes it all worthwhile.
Manang: (to Sus) It sounds like you've found a good place here, Mr. Magno.
Sus: (to Manang) I have, Manang. I really have.
(Sus pauses, lost in thought.)
Sus: (to Manang) I remember my first day at work. Kevin came bouncing over to my desk, introducing himself and cracking jokes. I'm usually hesitant around new people, but Kevin was just different. He had this infectious energy that drew me in.
(Sus chuckles softly.)
Sus: (to Manang) We've been best friends ever since. It's funny, we're very different people, but we just click. I feel very lucky to have him as a friend. He's very supportive too!
Manang: (to Sus) (smiling) It's nice to have good friends, Mr. Magno. They can make all the difference in the world. And Mr. Chen is really someone everybody looks up to.
(Manang, with her youthful complexion and warm smile, exudes a calming aura that puts Sus at ease. Yet, her eyes hold a depth of experience and wisdom that reminds him of her formidable presence in the Sensitive community.)
Manang: (to Sus) Kevin, Kevin. He's quite a figure here, you know. Top brass of our Enforcers. Strongest of the strong. Even the highly Touch Sensitives are in awe of him.
Sus: (to Manang) Why are Touch Sensitives... "highly"?
Manang: (to Sus) Ah, well, there's a sort of unspoken hierarchy among us Sensitives. It's not about superiority, mind you, but more about the practical applications of our abilities in the grand scheme of things.
Sus: (to Manang) I don't understand.
Manang: (to Sus) Take Sight and Sound Sensitives, for example. They're highly respected because they can gather information and understand the world easily, given that most communication relies on sight and sound.
Sus: (internally) Wow. Okay, so Sound and Sight Sensitives are sort of the main guys and girls who get things done, hmm.
Manang: (to Sus) Taste and Scent Sensitives, while valuable in fields like culinary arts, biological research, or detection, are rarely seen in leadership roles. Their senses, while powerful, aren't always the most practical for understanding the broader context of situations.
Sus: (to Manang) And Touch Sensitives?
Manang: (to Sus) Touch Sensitives are renowned as leaders in our community because, once they master Sense-Shifting, they can influence people with a mere touch of their hand. It allows them to navigate the world with ease, to persuade and guide others.
Sus: (to Manang) Sense-Shifting. Rachel mentioned that, ma'am. What does it mean?
Manang: (to Sus) Sense-Shifting is the ability to manipulate and optimize one's energy for Sensitive abilities. This allows Sensitives to amplify one of their five senses to an extraordinary degree. It's a way of shifting the frequency of their senses to resonate with reality.
Sus: (internally) This just keeps getting deeper, doesn't it? (to Manang) So Sensitivity is just the ability and Sense-Shifting is the mastery of that ability?
Manang: (to Sus) Yes. It's a complex process that requires years of training and practice. Essentially, it involves mastering three skills: extracting, exploring, and expanding molecular memories.
Sus: (to Manang) I know about molecular memories. Marcus told me about it.
Manang: (to Sus) Good. By accessing and manipulating these memories, Sensitives can gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and even influence the perceptions of others.
Sus: (to Manang) That's incredible.
Manang: (to Sus) Sense-Shifting, Mr. Magno, is a double-edged sword. In the right hands, it can be a tool for healing, for protection, for guiding others towards a better path. But in the wrong hands... it can be a weapon, a means of control, a way to manipulate and exploit.
(Manang's expression hardens, her eyes reflecting a deep understanding of the potential consequences.)
Manang: (to Sus) The Sensitive Council has been around for centuries, Mr. Magno. We've seen firsthand the damage that uncontrolled Sense-Shifting can do. Wars have been started, lives have been ruined, and the very fabric of society has been threatened because of it.
Sus: (internally) Do you know about this, Suri?
Suri: (shaking left and right) I only know things as you know them, Sus. We are one.
(She leans forward, her gaze piercing.)
Sus: (to Manang) Thank you for this, ma'am. Really. But if I may ask. When will I be able to get back to my work here at Metro? I mean, I swear I won't use this… Sensitivity for crimes. I just want a normal life.
Manang: (to Sus) I'm afraid that's no longer an option. That's why we have rules, Mr. Magno. That's why we have training, tests, and a strict policies. We can't afford to just let anyone use these gifts without understanding the consequences. The stakes are too high.
Sus: (internally) Oof. It's really so much to take in. But I understand. With great power comes…
(Sus shifts uncomfortably in his seat, the weight of her words sinking in.)
Manang: (to Sus) We've spent centuries building a world where Sensitives can live in peace, Mr. Magno. The very world we have right now was and is being built by Sensitives.
Sus: (internally) This world. Our whole world. This is the world of Sensitives.
(She stands up, her voice filled with conviction.)
Manang: (to Sus) And we're not about to let anyone destroy that, Mr. Magno. Not now, not ever.
Sus: (internally) Oh boy. There's no turning back for me now, isn't it? (sarcastically)
(The grand oak door swings open, revealing Maria, Kevin, and Rachel. Maria, with her commanding presence and sharp eyes, takes in the scene with a quiet intensity.)
Maria: (to Sus) I'm glad you're okay, my boy.
(Kevin, ever the energetic one, bounces on the balls of his feet, a wide grin plastered across his face. Rachel beams, her eyes sparkling with warmth and excitement.)
Kevin: (to Sus) What's up, bro? You know your Sense-Core now?
Rachel: (to Sus) Hey, Sus! Marcus bothered you too much? (teasing)
Manang: (to Maria, Kevin, and Rachel) Welcome back.
Maria: (to Manang) Thank you, Manang. We appreciate you being here. (to Sus) Sus, we received the report from Marcus. It seems you have quite the potential.
Sus: (to Maria) Thank you, Boss. May I know the results?
Maria: (to Sus) We'll get to that later. First, we have some important matters to discuss.
(Maria's expression turns serious.)
Maria: (to Sus) We've uncovered some disturbing information about the Sense-Stealer you encountered last night. Obviously, they are part of a larger organization, one that poses a serious threat to our community.
Sus: (to Maria) I see.
Kevin: (to Sus) We believe this organization is responsible for a number of recent attacks on Sensitives.
Sus: (internally) Why are they telling me this now?
Maria: (to Sus) We're still trying to gather information about them, but we believe they are actively seeking to recruit new members.
Sus: (to Maria) And what does it have to do with me, Boss Maria? I'm overly new to this and I haven't even learned most of the basics.
Maria: (to Sus) Correct, given that you're a late bloomer, My Boy, it would be too dangerous for you to learn your abilities on your own.
Sus: (internally) Agreed.
Maria: (to Sus) We've decided that you'll be joining the Enforcers as support, directly under Kevin's wing. This will also enable you to learn how to further handle your senses.
Sus: (internally) What the hell?! (surprised)
Kevin: (to Sus) Awesome! Welcome to the team, bro!
Rachel: (to Sus) (voice bubbling with enthusiasm) Woof! Nice one, Sus!
Sus: (internally) Whoa. This is too much. (panicking)
Suri: Calm down, Sus. We got this!
Maria: (to Sus) It's a lot. I know. But we believe this is the best way to protect you and to help you develop your abilities.
Sus: (to Maria) Thank you, Boss…
(A heavy silence descends upon the room, the weight of Maria's words hanging in the air. Sus's heart pounds in his chest, a vortex of fear tightening inside him.)
Sus: (internally) I'm not ready for this. I know that.
(He can feel the pressure, the immense responsibility that has been thrust upon him.)
Maria: (to Sus) (her voice low and steady) I'm sorry about the timing of this, my boy. But these gifts give us a heavy responsibility. Regardless of when or how we got them. We share this obligation.
(Kevin and Rachel exchange a worried glance, their usual cheerfulness replaced by a grim determination.)
Kevin: (to Sus (voice firm) We're here for you, bro. We'll help you through this.
Rachel: (to Sus (eyes filled with concern) We're all in this together, Sus. We're a family.
(Sus takes a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He knows that he can't afford to panic. He needs to stay focused, to be strong.)
Sus: (to Maria) (voice trembling slightly) I understand, Boss Maria. I won't let you down.
(Maria nods, a flicker of approval in her eyes.)
Maria: (to Sus) I believe you, my boy. We need to prepare you. The road ahead will be dangerous.
(She pauses, her gaze boring into Sus.)
Maria: (to Sus) You are a Sensitive now.
(Sus looks into Maria's eyes, his own filled with a mixture of fear and determination.)
Sus: (to Maria) (firm) I will do my best, Boss.
(Maria smiles, a hint of pride in her eyes.)
Maria: (to Sus) Good. Then let's begin.
Ding
(A sharp, insistent tone suddenly erupts from everyone's phones.)