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Post by Cassava on Jan 19, 2019 23:29:10 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Abbayor.
It was a lush planet, a beautiful sphere indeed. Cassava had been traveling the stars since her separation from the Dominion. Actually, since news of the death of Radia, Cass had not a clue of what to do with herself. The woman was bouncing from planet to planet, aiding those in need. While her efforts were small scaled, she couldn't help but wonder if her strength or power could be used for something of more worth. As she traveled in her pod to the planet, she sat in silence. Her golden eyes scanned the vital markers of the ship as she began to dock with Abbayor. She got clearance, landed, and let her somewhat short frame from the capsule she had from the Dominion. "Ahhhh, here we are," Cassava exclaimed with a smile plastered upon her face. Not only did she make it to Abbayor, she made it in once piece and with a ship to escape the place. Her katchin armored boots clanked across the ground as the Saiyan touched ground and the scantily clad Saiyan made her way through the unknown city. It was a new place, but the raven-haired woman was eager to explore. The more placed she explored and discovered, the more she spread her name as a protector of the universe.
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 20, 2019 11:55:43 GMT -5
Fuck you, Imperial Advisory Council.
You have to socialize more They said.
No one knows who you are, Doctor Kaijin. They said
You must become a trusted member of the community, to feed the image of the Empire. Another said.
No, I fucking don't, bitch.
Kaijin was annoyed, to say the least. Since becoming the Chief Scientist of the Galactic Empire, he had quite a great deal on his plate. Between satisfying the Empire's immense need for technological advancement and dealing with his own projects, Kaijin was a busy, busy boy. One of the most pressing issues on his table was being recruited to a special team dedicated to keeping Almus Alvazar, leader of the Black Star, off the Galactic Hypernet channels. Or, at the very least, off their Hypernet channels. While a team was being assembled to destroy the Black Star threat once and for all, they needed at least a temporary fix for the invasive broadcasts, in which the message is always the same," Kill everyone, then peace"
As annoying and shortsighted it was, people were annoying and shortsighted, so it worked out. Little by little, Kaijin and other Imperial figures were noticing changes in the day to day interactions of the people. Morale was steadily decreasing, and patriotism even more so. The vacancy of the Imperial Throne, coupled by the "power to the people" mentality of the Black Star was increasing faith in the ever mysterious Black Star rebellion, at the expense of trust in the Galactic Empire. Kaijin would rather be in his lab, trying to put a stop to the invasive broadcasts, or in a meeting room, finalizing who would be chosen for the mission to finally stamp out the invasive organization.
But noooooooo.
Deal with tourists, instead.
But alas, Kaijin plastered a smile on his face as he stood outside the spaceport waiting for a young Cassava, a Saiyan Warrior and a former member of the Saiyan Dominion. In an effort to begin mending relationships with the Saiyan species and in an effort to begin gaining more public support, various Imperial officials were dispatched to accompany what administration deemed to be "galactic influences", and attempt to either convert them to the Empire, or at least show them enough Imperial glory for them to be sympathetic in the future, and hope to align later down the road. The ultimate show of propaganda.
Waiting outside the spaceport with a speeder, Kaijin bowed his head as Cassava approached, opening the door for her as he moved into the driver seat of the speeder, deciding to prefer the scenic route over simply flying. Did he have a driver's license? No. But did he care? No.
"Welcome to the Empire, Cassava. I am Chief Scientist Doctor Kaijin Vex. A pleasure to make your acquaintance." Word Count: 467 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 20, 2019 13:20:35 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. There was a long-standing resistance between the First Galactic Empire and her people, the Saiyans. Cassava wasn't too much ingrained in the politics, she was but a blade pointed in a direction during her time in the military. Alas, those times were behind her. Sure, at heart she was still a Saiyan who enjoyed fighting like the next one. The pointless slaughter? That was unnecessary. How many people did she rend and kill? How many were just like her, following a military with subtle orders against another group? Were they as invested in their Empire or leadership, or were they simply just following orders to feed their families? Cassava frowned as she walked through the spaceport. That's why she was here today. She wanted to turn a new leaf, prove that there was more to power than simply killing and ruining the lives of people who didn't deserve it. The Saiyan wanted to help those, who couldn't help themselves. Her ideals were changed, perhaps at the moment her mother lost her life to a senseless war. This day she was set to meet with a man. Her eyes glanced at the handwritten note she had made for herself earlier in the week. Doctor Kaijin Vecks? Her penmanship wasn't the best. She shoved the crumbled note back into her pocket and carried on, her tatted cape following behind her petite frame as she searched for the man that matched the description. Alas, before she could spot him with her own golden orbs, his voice rang out. "Welcome to the Empire, Cassava. I am Chief Scientist Doctor Kaijin Vex. A pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Cassava locked eyes with the alabaster skinned man. His piercing gaze melted right through her, there was something odd about it. Alas, she was here to mend relationships in any way she could with the Empire. She was tired of war, tired of grief, and more importantly, tired of division in the galaxy. "Ahh, a doctor huh? Sweet credentials! The pleasure is all mine Doctor." Cassava grinned from ear to ear, her gauntlet covered hand waving towards the android. Her left arm, was wrapped in bandages, much like his own. It hung heavy at her side as she approached the speeder he had waiting. He opened her door, and she quickly hoped in. It was a snug fit but would work to get the pair to where they were going. Erm, wherever that was. Cassava couldn't exactly say what the day had planned, but she hoped it had an impact. Anything had more of an impact than her aimlessly traveling the universe. "Thank you for picking me up, can I call you Kaijin?" Cassava turned her head to look at him inquisitively. While she didn't want to demean the man's title, formalities were hard for the Saiyan. "Where exactly are we headed anyhow? Abbayor is beautiful! It's good to see that it's doing all right despite…recent relations." Cassava's head sunk in shame. Not because she was directly responsible for the relations between the former Dominion and the Empire, but because she felt she had contributed a hand, albeit months ago.
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 20, 2019 15:06:27 GMT -5
Normally, it would be weird for an Imperial Officer to be willingly sharing a speeder with a Saiyan Warrior, especially from the Empire. However, the circumstances of the ride was what set the two apart. Kaijin had the benefit of being a new, albeit high ranking, Imperial official. He had never met Emperor Polaris face to face before his death. He had never raised a finger against Saiyans....at least for the Imperial flag, during the war at least. He had beaten up Saiyans for other reasons, of course, such as for a certain mushroom man on a certain casino planet.
Needless to say, Kaijin was very much an outsider to the conflict, having only become a more pressing galactic figure post-Peace Accords. And Cassava in turn, was a redeemed Saiyan Warrior. She shed her desire for bloodshed and carnage for the Dominion in favor of a more peaceful route. In a way, they were both offshoots of their respective governments, albeit in their own ways. For their own reasons.
As Kaijin steered the speeder through the busy streets of Abbayor, Kaijin decided it best to entertain the young Saiyan in conversation, if only to answer her questions and pass the time before reaching their destination. The Android chose the most scenic route to their destination, making sure to highlight through Abbayor's many architectural marvels, showcasing the beauty of the once Galactic Patrol capital.
"My name is Kaijin, so it would be rather intriguing, as well as peculiar if you decided not to call me by my given name." The Android responded, his smooth, soft spoken voice only augmented by its' overall lack of emotion.
"We are heading to one of my favorite places, to answer your question. A small cafe in the main plaza, that I often frequent before heading over to the labs. The only place that serves hot chocolate that suits my standards of excellence." If there was one thing that he was quite particular of, it was hot chocolate. He only accepted the best forms of the hot, sweet drink. Normally that meant to make it himself, but since coming to Abbayor, this cafe in question had exceeded even Kaijin's high expectations, and he had been near addicted to the place ever since.
As they eventually neared the cafe, the silver haired scientist allowed a small, pleasant smile to cross his features," The death of Emperor Polaris and Queen Radia have left both of our governments in a rather... interesting position. With the thrones vacant, we are both poised with new leadership any day now. The Empire in question, already has the heir in place. With this new leadership ushers a new era for both governments, one that would hopefully prove pleasant for all involved. The Dominion and Empire have lost many lives on both sides, fighting each other. Only for all governments to be brought to a screeching halt before the likes of Lord Snow of the Planet Trade Organization."
Opening the door for her to step out, the pair made their way into the cafe, Kaijin particularly with a certain bounce in his step. Upon being seated, Kaijin refused to speak more of the topic until he had placed his order of hot chocolate and several of these rather sweet, delicate pastries known as "doughnuts". Once the waiter sauntered away, Kai's red eyes once more focused on Cass, before he resumed his story.
"It is my personal hope that as we rebuild, we become better then we were before. To see the vision of galactic peace realized. For that is the goal that everyone strives to, yes?"Word Count: 605 | Total Word Count: 1,072 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 20, 2019 21:39:02 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Cassava gave it no second thought. Riding through the busy streets of Abbayor with this Imperial officer was not a concern for her. While she eerily couldn't pin a power level to the man, she was a big girl and could handle herself. And if she couldn't, that was just her fate. While many would be terrified, Cassava had faced death more often than once, in fact, there had been dark and turbulent times in her life where she even welcomed it. Her golden hues looked out at all the passing surroundings. Her mind idly thinking about the ways she could improve people's lives at any moment. A crash of vehicles? She could pull the injured from the flames. A bully picking on some defenseless kids? She would stop that. Cassava's deep-rooted passion for making things right was her drive, and perhaps it was what brought her here today. She snapped back to the conversation, looking over the Kaijin as he gave her permission to drop the honorifics and used his name. "Ahh, Kaijin. Good. I like that name," Cassava muttered as she listened to the man describe the place they were headed. A café, good, she was starving. He mentioned a place that served hot chocolate but was unsure how you would eat it. From experience the woman noted that once a certain temperature was reached, chocolate would melt and become viscous. Would you use a straw? Perhaps a spoon? She thought on it for a moment before Kaijin spoke again. "Right. We both are grieving with our losses I'm sure. . ." The Saiyan spoke in a low voice. Watching Radia get so easily decimated was both filled with sadness and shame. She was supposed to be the strongest of their race. A legendary Super Saiyan. She was executed without a chance to know. She was killed without a way to defend herself. "Your former emperor did a lot of shame on my people. He held a lot of resentment for my race in particular. The tension rose a lot, not that I blame our retaliations. Alas, I don't agree with any of this war. These losses of life are, tremendous."The woman looked out the door as Kaijin opened it once more. The café was quaint, and Kaijin seemed most thrilled to be here. Cassava put on a smile and followed the man. They took a seat and Cassava ordered a cup of the chocolate as well as piece of cake displayed on the sign outside. It was chocolate, with more chocolate, all doused in chocolate. If she wasn't careful, she would be leaving the café with jitters. "I'm glad that you agree Kaijin. While there are some in this galaxy who seek to cause a ruckus and put fear in other's hearts. I'd say the majority strive for peace and understanding." Cassava mentioned before the waitress came back a few moments later with two steaming cups and their desserts. Of course, it didn't take long since the delicacies were already made. "Ahhh. So, this is the chocolate?" Cassava dipped a finger into the marshmallow topped cup. It burnt her finger. She quickly recovered the digit and sucked upon its painful skin. "Oww…"
She awaited it to cool and took a slice of her cake instead. "So, you have found your heir? Interesting though. I would say the Kingdom on our end is in a state of disarray. I'm not sure I'd know what to do if I were in a position of authority myself. Luckily, I am but a miniscule bleep on the grand scale of things. Decisions like those are above my head."
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 21, 2019 20:00:22 GMT -5
Kaijin chuckled, somewhat amused by the woman. She seemed to have not even been ushered into the great wonders of melted delicacies, as the mere prospect of hot chocolate seemed foreign to her. Was it possible that the earth-born beverage had not yet reached the Saiyans, and that they had spent their existence deprived of such a wonder? Oh, the horror. Many nights have passed in which Kaijin speculated he would have gone mad if not for hot chocolate, and found the sweet drink to be a closer friend than most men and women could claim in relation to the Android.
Deciding it best to indulge in a donut, Kaijin's eyes floated back to Cassava, as he once more engaged the Saiyan in conversation.
"It is time the Empire refocuses on its' main path. For too long we were captivated in the destruction of the Saiyan Dominion, and the Saiyan Dominion in return was too focused on us. Polaris was an excellent leader, and fair to his people. In his last few months, my review of officials records did have me noticing a change in his general demeanor, but we wish to continue his journey, and evolve it so that it is no longer as skewed as his. Polaris's reign has ended, and thus we will usher the Empire into a new era. We seek to unify the galaxy, and to spread peace throughout its' holdings."
"The galaxy has suffered more than enough..." Kaijin said, sipping his hot chocolate, before indulging in yet another bite of his donut. If the good doctor so decided, he could've divulged the full extent of his philosophy to Cassava, and truly get the party started, but frankly he didn't often share his true views with organics. In fact, Lute and Kuueru, and to a lesser extent, Tora were among the only organics who had even a semblance of an idea. Kaijin's desire to rewrite the social rules of society and to unify the galaxy were rather radical in nature, and in the end would most likely involve a lot of resistance, and possibly death. But all for the greater good of humanity. However, the mere subject was one of controversy, and Kaijin did not feel like having such a debate with...frankly anyone, at the moment. Thus, he kept his base ideals rather simple, and fed that to people.
"However, tell me about yourself, Cassava. What is your story...and why do you come before me today? What is it you hope to achieve, and what are your goals within this vast, vast galaxy?"
Word Count: 432 | Total Word Count: 1,504 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 21, 2019 21:46:44 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Cassava set her fork down upon the plate with a single clink. She had half forgotten that she came to Abbayor today to talk politics and healing; with her lovely desert and time with Doctor Kaijin at this café, how could she not? Her gaze focused on the pristine layer of chocolate icing that layered ontop of a dense, yet moist sponge of the same flavor. Whoever crafted this dish, and the drink were quite the artisan no doubt. Alas, Kaijin's words on the upcoming fate of the Empire were clear. He spoke as if he were a direct diplomat to the new heir. Perhaps even, as if he were someone who knew into the mind of whoever it was to take such a throne. Her eyes narrowed as she glared across the table at the white-haired man. He was straight to the point, hardly any opinions filling his words, and still—he used the word 'we' when talking about hopes and plans for the future. "Well, we can agree that the galaxy has suffered. We can agree that both of our former leaders have done questionable things, and we can agree that our factions are both in a dire time. That much is for certain."
Cassava's words trailed off. They both had said their piece on the matter. Still, what could they do to mold the future? After years of conflict amongst each other, how did they quell the hearts of those who suffered first hand? There were a ton of Saiyans slaughtered by the Empire, and a ton of Imperials brought down by the wrath of the Saiyans. You couldn't simply erase that, or erase the vengeance filling those souls left after a brutal war. She picked up the mug, it had cooled off a bit, but the marshmallows inside had all but melted. She took a long sip, her eyes managing to light up at the sugar ridden drink. "Myself? My story is a long one, one that you could surely look up in my record if I chose to forward it. Why am I here? Because not another of my kind dares to do it." The woman set the mug down affirmatively, her piercing eyes meeting the seemingly empty crimson one's that belonged to Kaijin. "My goals are simple. I want to help those, who cannot help themselves. I am sick of the wars, the fighting. . . the losses," Her face was pained now, but she pushed through with her words, though they seemed to waver a bit as the memories of an uncomfortable past flooded her mind. "Right now, my people are doing nothing, and are not contributing to anything good in this galaxy other than their own selfish needs. If I'm the first to step up and build bridges so be it. I just hope I'm not wasting my time Kaijin."
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 23, 2019 3:19:06 GMT -5
Those who cannot help themselves.
Such a broad goal, yet noble in its' own sort of way. Kaijin admired that, in a sense. A general do-gooder, hoping to serve for the better of the people. The Android had spent the first half of his life serving as a killer for a mad scientist whose only motivation was profit, and spent the second half as a mad scientist, creating weapons and tools that, nine times out of ten, were meant to only spur about destruction. Cassava's desire to protect the innocent and help those who couldn't help themselves was a noble one, and he would do good to remember that, even if it wasn't a permanent solution to an ever-pressing societal issue.
Kaijin chuckled slightly, raising his own mug to his lips, relishing in the sweet, rich flavor of the hot chocolate, the half melted clumps of white marshmellow only augmenting Kai's own pleasure, placing him in an amicable mood as he held this little fireside chat with the Saiyan woman.
"In time, perhaps your people will join your journey. The time is still young, the sting of the Peace Accords still fresh. The cry to mobilize is a cry that has yet to be taken up by the majority, and that is okay. For they will. The Saiyans must be lick their wounds, much as we do. And in time, more will join you." The Android commented, taking another bite from his donut.
"However, you are not walking this road alone. There are many who take up the torch and fight in their own way. Your way is to help the needy and defenseless. I fight my battles for the people...in other ways. However, I believe I can help you, nonethless."
"There are a number of the poor and sick in the lower levels of Abbayor. The hospitals in that area are overflowed with the ill and injured, for the dangers of the lower, crime rampant areas have only increased since Polaris's death. The Imperial Patrol on this planet used to curb the outright gang violence as best as they could, however given how strained relations are between the Empire and our frontier planets as a result of the vacant throne, much of the patrol is...indisposed, in order to keep the peace and regulate trade lanes as best as possible. Thus, our attention has been taken away from our capitals, in interest of the contested worlds...." Kaijin explained, his hand moving to rest on the middle of the table.
"The gang violence is an issue for another time, and cannot be solved in a single night. However, something can be done for the ill and injured. Flora-43, an experimental medicinal mixture of my own creation, is meant to serve as pain alleviation. It is not a cure for anything, but it is general purpose medicine that those patients need. It has not been openly released to the market yet, however it is due to be released soon, for it is in the final stages of approval by the Imperial Board of Health. It is due to this, that I am able to provide you with the fluid free of charge. If you desire to truly help, perhaps providing aid and relief to those citizens would assist. You'd be doing the Empire a great service, and those people a greater one. It is your choice, of course. I understand you may have questions."
First question probably being how did Kaijin know of such a pressing dilemma off the top of his head, and supply it to Cassava in such a swift manner. Well, the answer to such a concern was surprisingly honest and good natured. Kaijin was aware of quite a few of Abbayor's issues, but was frankly too busy to deal with them. And given the nature of the beast known as Black Star, more disgruntled citizens meant more supporters for them, and the scientist would be damned if he allowed any more support to be provided to those terrorists. If Imperial volunteers stepped up to the plate more to provide relief to the otherwise damned, then there would be less to be disgruntled about. At least, in theory. Kaijin knew it wasn't quite that simple...but they had to start somewhere, right?
Word Count: 718 | Total Word Count: 2,222 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 23, 2019 10:01:47 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Cassava wondered if there was any good that could be done in such a pristine place like Abbayor, what Kaijin would say a bit later would confirm that there was. Her finger pressed against her chin as Kaijin talked about her people, the Saiyans, and how they should be back on their feet eventually. Yes, they were a resilient race of people with strong hearts. Sure, losing their leader and a Super Saiyan amongst them was a dire hit for them, alas, there were stronger Saiyans in the galaxy willing to pick up that mantle. Hell, she was one of those 'legendary' Super Saiyans but wasn't too ingrained in the military and leading others as Radia. She often wondered if the queen herself got thrust into the position or put herself into the throne as a symbol of hope? "I hope so. Not just for the hope of the Saiyans, but for the hope of the galaxy. If my people put our minds and bodies together for the greater good, we would accomplish so much more than butting heads with everyone else. At least, that's my opinion."
Cassava chuckled and finished the last few bites of her decadent chocolate cake. The moist sponge seemed to make her eyes roll back in her head for a moment, still, she didn't forget she was talking to an imperial diplomat. "Right, that's not to say I haven't always had the little person in my head. It's something I've learned that is important to me." Cassava informed the android. It was true though, there was a time when she was only focused on killing the enemy and proving her own prowess in battle. Kaijin spoke of Abbayor and its status. Underneath the pristine surface she saw was where the trouble lurked. That made sense and explained why she had not a clue based on her first impressions. The raven-haired woman nodded quietly, sipping away at her hot chocolate and managing to swallow a few of the melted marshmallows greedily. "Gangs huh? That must be troublesome. Aid for those on the lower levels, those more unfortunate. I see your plan." Cassava spoke somberly, her golden orbs traveling around the café with an idle glance. On the surface all seemed well, everyone was going about their days despite the silent morning for Polaris. "Flora-43, sounds experimental all right. Perhaps addictive." Cassava commented with a stern face. Alas, most pain alleviators and neurological blocking drugs were abused and addictive. She leaned forward, her elbows pressing into the table as she sat down her mug with a light clunk. "All right, I mean, if it's to help the people of Abbayor, I will do it. Perhaps seeing a Saiyan aiding your citizens would be a good start. I-I at least hope so. I have seen how the lower class are treated on my home world, so I can't imagine it would be much different here, I hope that helping the sick and downtrodden at least alleviates some of the Empire's stress and worries."Cassava leaned back in her seat after a moment. "How long on the approval? When can I get to work?"
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 24, 2019 2:25:06 GMT -5
Kaijin nodded briefly upon hearing of Cassava's agreement. It was almost exactly what he wanted to hear. There were plenty of humanitarian volunteers down in the lower sectors of Abbayor. However, the volunteers could only bring down so much, and many of them weren't the greatest of medical experts, given the high demand for medical experts in the upper cities. And the medical experts that were already stationed down there didn't have much access to to the finer aspects of health care and medicine, given poor allocation of funds in the latter part of the Saiyan-Imperial War. Especially once Abbayor was conquered by the Saiyan Dominion. An improvement, even if small, in the lives of those suffering in the lower levels of the planet, would look well on the new regime under Emperor Absolut.
And given the Emperor was a fifteen year old boy, he needed a lot more than daddy Polaris to win the support of the people. There were many who viewed the child as a mere shadow of his father, a kid who shouldn't be allowed to reign and decide over the fate of millions. However, at the same time a new face of leadership gave them some hope that things were going to change. He was a boy, yes, but he was someone in power...and it gave a sense of stability, even if such stability was shaky. And if Kaijin could help spark what could be a Saiyan-Imperial alliance, as well as provide a stable foundation for Abbayor's poverty stricken underlevels, then such would reflect well on the Absolut Administration.
Kaijin was better at this game then even he thought.
"At the least, a week's time." Kaijin said, answering her last question as to when Flora-43 would be released.
"When you begin, depends solely on you. You could very well begin distribution now, for I doubt the medical staff would necessarily be picky, especially when they've been starving for resources for so long. Of course, once you proceed down there, I will provide you with the proper credentials to list you as an Imperial Relief Aide, so that they aren't looking at you like some smuggler looking to sell them drugs." Kaijin remarked with a chuckle, finishing what was to be his final donut.
"Or you could wait for the verification, the likes of which I would forward to you as soon as it arrives on my desk, and you can proceed with the knowledge that the medicine you are handing out has been approved by the Imperial Board of Health. Although it's going to be nonetheless. But, organics have always loved their pieces of paper." Kaijin rolled his eyes, as if he viewed such certification in writing as unneeded. But then again, he was also the one who was somewhat against scientific consent, so his morals when it came to research have always been questionable.
"However, I would like to thank you for your generosity. Your efforts will not only help the community, but it would also serve to ease the tensions between our two governments. Every little bit helps when rebuilding is the topic of discussion."
Word Count: 525 | Total Word Count: 2,747 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 24, 2019 10:51:01 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. A week. A whole week.
Cassava sat at the opposite end of the table, her toes curling within her katchin boots. She solemnly nodded towards the android, her mind absent in thought as she tried to think of how she would occupy her time. There was no way she would choose to take an unapproved drug to the people, her mother would roll in her grave. "I see, as much as I trust your mind Doctor, I think I'll wait for trials to be ran and the approval to be sought. Science is a methodological approach which is filled with theories and testing. Better to be safe than sorry in my book." Cassava retorted, her stern gaze meeting the red eyes of Kaijin with a mismatched grin. Her fingers dipping onto her porcelain plate, swiping up what smears of chocolate and crumbs remained before she sucked her finger clean. She downed the rest of her own drink and stood to a rise after all was said and done. "No, thank you for the opportunity to help the people of Abbayor under my mantle as a Saiyan. I'm sure there will be some reluctant to accept my aid, but if you would please provide me with someone to accompany on this mission, I'll gladly serve as the face of generosity for my race."Cassava bowed, her long locks of braided ebony hair moving with her petite frame. She wasn't sure if the man was one for handshakes judging as he didn't offer one in their initial meeting. Alas, she wouldn't give one now. "I think I will stay on the planet for now, have my face be known, and get to know the people's strife. I'll forward you the address of where I am staying, and we can keep in close contact that way. As soon as you have approval in hand I am ready to go. Enjoy the rest of your day Kaijin,"
She turned on her heel and exited the café with a quiet saunter.
Cassava had been in communication with Kaijin through the week. It was a cutthroat and to the point relationship, still, there was something quirky and endearing about the android. The day prior Cassava received word that all was good to go, and with the news she prepared how she would approach the people. She stood before a mirror, practicing the best 'friendly' face she could muster. After several years as such a stern and militant person, it was hard to grasp some social nuances. After seeing so much death, war, and losing those near to you, reconnecting with those emotions were hard and complex. Alas, Cassava pulled her clothes on, the tattered cloth barely managing to cover her frame, but her outfit was near and dear to her. There were stains of blood she couldn't even wash from the surface. Upon her right forearm she affixed a katchin gauntlet that housed hidden blades just like the one's in her boots. With that, she was ready to tackle the day. And almost ironically the knock on the door came. The person Kaijin sent must have arrived. The Saiyan walked towards the door, her eyes widening as she took in the appearance of this newcomer.
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 25, 2019 0:19:22 GMT -5
The week had been quite an interesting one. Well, at least for Komari.
The human male was, despite his rather formal business attire, a well known field medic, deployed many a times to the sites of various battles across the outer rim of Imperial Territory. Hell, where would the Razor Battalion be if not for him, after that whole ordeal on Tritek during the Imperial-Saiyan War?
However, today, he was not being sent to some far, exotic offworld planet. Nor was he being deployed to some boring press conference on the principles and possible revision of medical ethics and malpractice. No, today he was playing humanitarian, as per special request by Doctor Kaijin Vex. He was not well acquainted with the newest Android administrator, who had been swept up in the Galactic Empire's recent influx of recruits, the silver haired male taking up the vacant position of Chief Scientist within the Galactic Empire's Bureau of Science and Technological Innovation. However, he had to admit that the man, while aloof and secretive, was effective in his policies, and already his decisions were beginning to impact the Empire for the better. Although Komari's first idea of a good day in the world of healing wasn't necessarily going down to the crime laden lower sectors to assist the poor, he was kind of grateful something was being done about the situation.
After all, he was from the lower districts. Born and raised, before being accepted into the Galactic Patrol's most prestigious university on a full scholarship, repeating said achievement thereafter upon his acceptance to medical school, before signing up with the Galactic Patrol, later turned Imperial Patrol. To him, the extent of his service was supporting his family, giving them quite the generous portion of his earnings so that the rest of his family could survive another day, and one day amass the funds to get out of that hellhole. However, he couldn't help but believe he was chosen for to accompany this "Cassava" woman, not only due to his medical talent, but because of his background and familiarity with the slums of Abbayor.
Well, only one way to find out.
A few moments after his knock, the door to Cassava's quarters opened, allowing the rather handsome, bespectacled human to meet the gaze of the rather attractive, dark haired, red eyed Saiyan female. Komari bowed his head to her respectfully, after a moment of surprise at who he was looking at.
Yeah, certainly wasn't expecting her to be hot.
A moment later, Komari would raise his head, his hand raising to adjust his glasses. Holding his arm out, he gave her invite to come outside.
"The name's Komari. Imperial Field Medic. I'm going to be your guide today as we venture into the deep dark slums of the place the Empire refused to accept, and the Galactic Patrol didn't have the resources to help. We'll even take the scenic route." Komari said, stuffing his hands in his pockets before turning on his heel, moving to his speeder, inviting her to go ahead and hop into the passenger seat.
Post Count: 517 | Total Word Count: 3,264 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 25, 2019 8:25:09 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Cassava was more than thrilled to be working in the field today. She had a background in medicine in fact. Her mother worked tirelessly as a field medic in the Dominion, risking her life to ensure that their side continued the fight despite all the odds against them. She lived to help people, and she had died helping people. Cassava took after more than just her mother's appearance and looks though, she carried her love of curing the ailing and aiding those who were in unfortunate situations. Perhaps that was why Cassava was more than elated to be offered such a job by Doctor Kaijin Vex. She opened the door, her eyes meeting the man with glasses, and a rather handsome appearance. She reached up her bandaged arm, her finger scratching idly at her cheek while there was a good few seconds of awkward stares. He invited her out and promptly introduced himself. She cleared her throat and sauntered out the door with a silent nod. "Komari, huh? I'm sure you already know, but I am Cassava, it's a pleasure," The Saiyan spoke with a slight bow of her head. They walked towards his speeder, the woman sticking close to his side as she still wasn't the most familiar with the area despite her spending a week on Abbayor. "Deep dark slums huh? At least I'm hopeful we can do some good today, that's my hope." Cassava spoke before sitting in the passenger of the handsome Komari's speeder. Her eyes glanced around at the knick-knacks and technology that dotted the vessel. She never had a speeder of her own, but after seeing both Kaijin and Komari make used of one, she was highly considering making an impulse purchase. "It's unfortunate that the Patrol didn't have the resources. We had a similar situation on New Sadla, although, under previous rule---things weren't as fortunate." Cassava cleared her throat. "They judge you from birth on what type of asset you'll be to the cause, and if you're not up to par, you get sent off planet to some backwater marble in the galaxy. Luckily, I was fortunate enough to have prominent parents. Other's weren't so lucky, I'm sure being discarded like garbage does back for the soul. I suppose that's why I'm here. To at least give a chance, a glimmer of hope to those who aren't even thought of."
Cassava spoke idly as they traveled in the speeder to wherever the medic was leading her. Though, at this point she was just enjoying the company after a week of solitude aside from Kaijin's occasional and cold messages.
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 25, 2019 20:51:15 GMT -5
The ride to the lower sectors was a rather long one, given that Cassava's lodgings on in the main capital was quite a ways from the poverty stricken district. It was strategic, of course. Place foreign diplomats as far away from the ugly portions of the planet as possible, while emphasizing the glory of the city, by showcasing the architectural wonders of the center district.
"They judge you from birth on what type of asset you'll be to the cause, and if you're not up to par, you get sent off planet to some backwater marble in the galaxy. Luckily, I was fortunate enough to have prominent parents. Other's weren't so lucky, I'm sure being discarded like garbage does back for the soul. I suppose that's why I'm here. To at least give a chance, a glimmer of hope to those who aren't even thought of."
Komari sighed softly as he steered the speeder with one hand, the floating space car descending slightly as it joined the traffic of the typical Abbayorian traffic, which surprisingly wasn't much, however such could be attributed to the time of day, given it was early afternoon, and most of the populace's adults were at work, with most of the populace's children were in school. As he continued to steer with his left hand, his right hand reached to one compartment, withdrawing a pack of cigarettes. Withdrawing a single cigarette and holding it in his fingers, Komari's brow furrowed, and a lighter began to float out of the compartment as well, moving by itself through what seemed to be telekinesis. The lighter igniting a brief flame, Komari lit the cigarette before sticking it in his mouth, the lighter's flame snuffed out before dropping unceremoniously back in the little compartment thereafter.
"Trust me, I get it. I'm not stupid, I know why I was sent here to accompany you here today. Not many people from the slums are able to get out of it. I just so happen to be one of the lucky ones because my mom scrounged up enough money to pay for me to take the entrance exam for the Patrol Academy. The gods only know how many days and nights she didn't eat to scrounge that shit up.."" Komari noted, pausing to take a deep puff of the cigarette, before expelling the smoke in one fell swoop. The smoke didn't linger, given that it was soon swept out into the surrounding atmosphere, the wind easily washing it away.
"I was born and raised in the lower districts. My mother, and my younger brothers still live down there. I moved out, and since then I've been trying to support them, sending as much money as I can, paying rent and other bills with a good other portion of it, and eating with pretty much the rest. It just so works out that the Patrol gives me uniforms and other forms of clothing, so I'm not wearing rags all day long. I want to do more, but when you're constantly bouncing from planet to planet to help the injured, there's little time to play humanitarian. So, I do what I can. For I doubt the Empire is gonna do anything to really fix anything anytime soon." The human finished the statement with a small yawn, and they suddenly took a sharp dive downwards, leaving the main traffic and heading down below.
If there was one word that could be used to describe Abbayor's Slum District, it was "dark".
The tall skyscrapers belonging to various businesses and high profile companies effectively blocked out most of the sunlight that the surface dwellers enjoyed, leaving the poor in a near permanent night. Easily maneuvering the speeder into a resting position, Komari parked the vessel, before hopping out.
Welcome home, me." Komari muttered as he moved forward. Within moments, it was clear that the splendor of the upper city was all but abandoned here. Garbage littered the floor, along with rags, broken pieces of scrap metal and a plethora of other undesirable substances that could range from human and animal waste in corners to small, dead animals tucked down alleyways.
There were a few small houses, but the majority of people lived in huts and shantyhouses poised across the forgotten streets. The malnourished people, a wide range of species, from human, to Heran, to even the rare Namekian, sat tucked away with their respective family units. They all stared at Komari and Cassava, eyeing their nice, pristine clothing and clean faces. Komari especially seemed uncomfortable, and he avoided eye contact, fishing another cigarette from his pocket, making quick work out of lighting it in order to calm himself.
"It's almost like I feel guilty....daring to come here...looking like this..." Cassava could hear Komari mutter under his breath. It was a statement obviously intended for himself, but the sound carried to the Saiyan woman, making the Imperial Medic's discomfort clear.
Before long, Komari stopped before the hospital. In fact, could it even be called a hospital. It looked no different from any other building along the street. And by building, it was, fortunately, an actual building, instead of a dilapidated hut. However, it wasn't even a proper hospital. It seemed almost like an apartment complex that was in a poor state of neglect. Graffiti pockmarked the front entrance, and all around the hospital/apartment complex entrance. His eyes turning to Cassava, he forced himself to smile.
"Are you ready, dear?"
Word Count: 915 | Total Word Count: 4,179 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 26, 2019 15:04:33 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. The conversation between the Saiyan and Komari didn't feel as awkward as she had expected. Turned out, the man grew up in the very place they were visiting. Of course, it wasn't going to make his appearance there any less awkward. From what she could gather, the man not only escaped that poverty, but still had family down there. Even with one successful member of the family, seems that can't help pull the rest onto a safer ship. Cassava sighed, her eyes looking around at the massive buildings and other speeders and vessels that clogged the roadways. "That's unfortunate though. I would have thought that the Empire would care more about one of their most populous planets. Seems I was wrong in that thought," Cassava spoke softly, her golden optics widening as the man telekinetically floated a lighter up to his lips. She stared at him for a long moment, not because she was offended by his habit, but just because she hadn't seen many people smoke. Besides that, it didn't hurt her eyes to take in his handsome features. Cassava was smiling and hadn't a clue she was. "At least you didn't forget where ya came from. Sending money and helping them out is about all you can do right? That's more noble than some people."
Cassava looked towards the road as they took a downward turn. Second by second the area around them got darker, and the only things really guiding their way were street lamps and brilliant neon signs advertising less than lavish things. The Saiyan looked around curiously. The deeper they dove, the seedier the individuals lining the streets began to look. She wasn't trying to make assumptions, but she did notice a couple guys ganging up on a smaller guy as they sped by. This certainly was a rough area. When they finally made it to the building labeled as a hospital, Cassava had to make a double take. Spray paints and destruction marred the outside. It did not look like any place a person would go for medical aid, in fact, it looked like you would go there to get hurt. Shards of broken glass and metals littered the ground, and an odd smell filled the Saiyan's nostrils. She turned to Komari as he spoke, his face looked glum as he lit yet another cigarette. Any other normal health facility and he wouldn't be allowed to smoke anywhere even close to the building, but this level of Abbayor didn't seem to follow many rules. "I think that guilt is normal, perhaps doing some good today will counterweight that though." Cassava tried to smile and shoot some words at the medic to cheer him up, alas, she didn't imagine they would change his mind much. He asked if she was ready, and she quietly nodded. They walked towards the building, the automatic doors half broken as only one side managed to slide open with a creaky sound. The woman looked forward for any people, and then back to her companion. "You have the stuff, right? I assume it'd be a shame for us to drive all the way down here only to have to turn back and get our drugs." Cassava spoke before walking up to a reception area of the hospital. The place looked more like a den to live in than a well-oiled machine that most medical facilities appeared. "W-Where even are the patients?" Cassava questions as she looked towards an elevator that looked like it had been long out of service. There were a few people on the base floor, but she couldn’t discern if they were sickly or not from first glance.
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 27, 2019 21:29:24 GMT -5
"I think that guilt is normal, perhaps doing some good today will counterweight that though."Ooh, boy. It better. Being here literally made his skin crawl. He gave more money to his family than he kept for himself, he paid for his family to come up to visit him every so often, inviting them to live with him in his cramped apartment complex for the duration of his visit, took them to see Peace Plaza. His mother and two little brothers adored him, and saw him as elite amongst elite. Even with his own meager living arrangements, the fact that he was in direct service to the Emperor was enough to bring a twinkle to their eyes. To children who had seen little rats living more lavishly than them, the sight of their older brother as a field medic for the Imperial Patrol was almost as if Komari was Emperor of the Galactic Empire himself. His mother, was simply grateful he had been able to make a name for himself. All those years after the passing of Komari's father soon after the birth of his youngest brother, his mother had to put in double the effort for Komari and his siblings, until Komari was old enough to work. She sent him to the Imperial Academy with a promise from the boy that he had to succeed. For the sake of them all. He hadn't squandered her sacrifice, and to this day tried to scrounge up enough money to give his brothers a similar opportunity, as they steadily reached the age requirement. As for his mother...he would drag her out of the slums if he had to, when he had the funds. But, as strong as his feelings were for his family, and their blight in the lower districts, he always invited them to see him. He never once, returned to see them down there. For the burden was strong to bear for the child who had made it out, while there were potentially thousands of others who hadn't, and were left to wallow in the darkness and grime. He almost wanted to vomit, and it wasn't because of the ever sickening stench that the dark district seemed to hold. He was guilty, sick to his stomach from the gnawing feeling. Would this good deed qualm his emotion? He sure hoped so, but his heart was telling him otherwise. There was a lot more he would need to do beyond his "good deed for the month". "Despite what the politicians tell you, the Empire isn't perfect. If it was, aid would've come down to this stretch of the woods a lot sooner than now. But, in the end war is always deemed more important. Anyway, yeah I have the canisters in a dynocapsule." Komari said as he pushed the door open, ushering Cassava inside before following himself. He wasn't much surprised by Cassava's surprise. He had been in this hospital once, when he broke his arm when he was eight. It just so happened he had a pretty good doctor at the time, who managed to work best with the little supplies the hospital had to help him make a full recovery. That doctor was long gone now though, probably succumbed to some rare disease after treating a patient. Even now though, the place looked worse now than it did back then. Cracked floor tiling, torn wallpaper. Tacky artwork adorned the wall. And despite the sickly, pale looks of the few people on the first floor....they were the front desk staff. One of them, an old human woman, looked up at them from her seat behind an old desk. Upon seeing Komari though, she smiled softly. "Well, look who decided to come give us peasants a visit. Little Komari, now a full fledged doctor."Komari blushed slightly, adjusted his glasses as he bowed to the woman. Her tone showed she was merely teasing the man, but he nonetheless felt the embarrassment. "Eliza, how pleasant to see you again. I have a shipment of Flora-43 painkillers to deliver to the upper levels. Newly approved by the Board of Health, information should be here..." Komari said before withdrawing a few pieces of paper from his coat pocket. His supervisors originally had tried to give him a datachip that held all the clearance information for the new drug, but Komari had to remind them that if the people of the lower district could barely obtain clean drinking water and afford indoor plumbing, then what exactly would they be doing with the latest technology in the form of computer terminals? Yes, that was who was running this Empire. Bureaucrats with no clue as to how the other half lives. It boiled Komari's blood sometimes. Eliza nodded slightly, taking the papers before nodding for Komari to go ahead, along with Cassava. "Welcome back, little Komari. Hopefully, you didn't forget the way."Nodding his thanks, Komari moved forward, beckoning for Cassava to follow. "The elevator has been out of service since I was six." Komari explained as he pushed open the door to the stairwell. "Second Floor would probably be the best place to start distribution. Sorry, I know stairs suck." He said, offering his meager forms of apology, smiling softly before bounding up the steps. Luckily, it wasn't that many steps. Was it more than either of them were probably willing to climb? Probably...most certainly.... absolutely.However, the real horror didn't start until they pushed open the doors to the second floor, which was where the first level of the sick were. Overpacked with bodies, some laying on half broken beds, others on old, ripped couches, and most lied on the floor, with nothing but blankets to cover themselves with. Various doctors in ripped lab coats sauntered about, each trying to care for the mass overflow of patients. Children's cries could be heard throughout the room, as well as a plethora of other...worse noises. All the windows in the room were open, so as to keep as much fresh airflow in the room as possible. Holding out a bracelet to Cass, Komari whispered to her. "One of the few things we can afford, and it has honestly kept this place from dying out. The bracelets are meant to protect you from...a good deal of the diseases people here come in with. It is meant to protect the doctors, and sometimes family members if they wish to visit their terminally ill loved ones. Over time, of course, doctors will still probably come down with one of the many diseases they have experienced in their time here...but we won't be here long enough for that to happen." Komari instructed before slipping his own bracelet on. Just in time to be presented with a rather tall, silver haired figure, a cigarette plopped in his mouth. "Oh, if it ain't Little Komari. And who's your friend?""Doctor Raya..." Komari groaned. "Come to distribute drugs to our lovely and vibrant patients?" Raya asked, his eyes drifting to focus on Cassava. Post Count: 1.160 | Total Word Count: 5,339 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Jan 28, 2019 12:41:57 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Speaking of guilt, Cassava felt a little guilty too. Not due to the fact that she was a person from this place and left it behind, but that her life was so much better than the dirty streets and shanties that these people called home. No, her life wasn't perfect, but it certainly was passable. Cassava sighed, her eyes looking at the expression on Komari's face. He seemed uncomfortable to say the least, and it wasn't until the woman realized that these people were hospital staff and not patients that it sunk in. Komari knew these folks, they knew him by name as well. They remembered him, and joked with him, apparently no hard feelings were felt, yet here he was, guilt ridden. She kept quiet, her lips pursing firmly closed as she tried to make it through the front of the hospital without seeming too uppity. Not that she thought of herself as better than these folks, it was just embarrassing walking around with sun-kissed skin and a positive attitude. For the first time in a long thing a feeling was brought back to the woman that she hadn't felt since times of war. Times where she stomped out life and murdered innocents in the heat of a battle. A senseless battle, but a battle. She snapped back to reality, Komari speaking about the Empire and how it was far from perfect. She chuckled at the mention of war being more important. Yet, they kept conquering and conquering. Such was the plight of an Empire. "Oh trust me, I know that the Empire is far from perfect. Alas, I may be a bit biased due to my upbringing huh?" Cassava noted as they walked into the hospital. There they met an older woman who addressed Komari by name. They talked back and forth for a moment, catching up on a vast amount of time in a brief few sentences. He explained their reasoning for being there, and Cassava remained silent by his side. Afterwards, they headed towards the stairwell. "Yeah, even if it were operational, I hate elevators," Cassava lamented, her wary eyes shooting towards the box of doom. "Escalators too, I just….trust my own feet more than I do moving objects."
They moved up to the second floor, there were a ton more bodies on this level. They all were littered around in a different state of disarray. It was a sad sight, but a unsavory fact nonetheless. "Ah, thank you. It's better to be safe than sorry I suppose," Cassava nodded while taking the bracelet. She slipped it upon her bandaged wrist, the forearm with the gauntlet would be much to thick for the jewelry to fit on. Alas, a voice rang out as they finished their conversation. Another doctor. Another smoking doctor. What was with all of these physicians with horrible habits? Especially around patients. Cassava looked at him awkwardly as he inferred about her. Komari seemed more annoyed than anything else and didn't answer for her. Cassava cleared her throat and bowed towards the cigarette scented older man. "Oh, I'm Cassava, pleasure." Cassava sat up, her golden orbs locking onto Raya and then towards the mass of sickly behind him. He almost looked like some evil scientist who was experimenting on these people, but that was too many sci fi movies affecting her judgement. Tremendously long black locks swayed down to her calves as she looked towards Komari with a grin. "Guess we have our work cut out for us! Better whip out those Dynos!" Cassava tried her best to remain positive amongst the sea of sickly.
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Jan 31, 2019 0:34:40 GMT -5
Dr. Raya was an annoying bastard.
Komari was half hoping that the old badger had decided to finally keel over and die one of these days. However, here he was, right in front of him, much to the younger man's chagrin. Doctor Raya and Komari didn't have anything particular to dislike each other for it, however ever since he was a child, the older doctor had done everything in his power to antagonize Komari, and make his life a living hell. However, on the other hand, Dr. Raya had been the person to, albeit begrudgingly, take Komari under his wing, when the boy was merely ten, and teach him the basics of medicine, in this godforsaken hellhole. Granted, the man was a pervert and his particular brand of medicine could be considered questionable at best, but Komari at least had to provide him the....least amount of respect.
"Raya." Komari greeted, to which Raya immediately popped out his cigarette, letting the wisps of smoke linger in the air as he exhaled. The older doctor had been the one to first put Komari on smoking, when he was thirteen, and he had been doing it, to varying degrees of intensity, ever since. Not coincidentally, the days upcoming to his visit to the lower levels, Komari's smoking habits only worsened, with the man smoking up to a pack a day to keep his stress levels down. And guess what happened? It didn't even work.
Raya, on the other hand, teased the man with a wide smile.
"Oh, come now, Komari. You're such a buzzkill." Raya said, dismissing the medic before looking towards Cassava
"You're an outsider, aren't you? You seem rather surprised by the conditions. Not what you expected from our illustrious capital, mayhaps?" Raya said before turning on his heel. One thing to be noted about him, is that unlike many other of the doctors in the room, he did not wear the band, the one reputed to protect from the majority of pathogens in the air.
Komari hesitated for a moment before following, withdrawing a small case practically filled with dynocapsules," Each one of these holds the shipment of-"
-Flora whatever the fuck number is afterwards. Yes, I know I know." Raya interrupted as he led them past the masses.
"The miracle painkiller drug meant to serve as Doctor Vex's good deed for the year, while he refocuses on stamping out terrorists in the outer fringes. Darling, if you're an outsider, perhaps you should be made aware that we've been suffering down here for decades. And no, I don't mean just the people in this hospital. I mean the economic conditions of this district. Wallowing in self filth long before the Galactic Empire.It amuses me slightly that it only took the death on a monarch, and fear of widespread rebellion, to finally give the people some semblance of attention. And for little Komari to visit us..."
"You know my job! I'm barely in the citadel!" Komari exclaimed, clenching his teeth in anger
"I know you better than you know yourself, little Komari. Don't even begin to lie.." Raya said as he smashed his cigarette in his hand, before withdrawing another from his coat pocket, withdrawing a lighter and igniting it. Raising his other hand, he tapped the air in front of him, causing the pack of dynocapsules to float away from Komari via telekinesis, before gently landing in Raya's hand.
"Hmph, painkillers. It doesn't solve the solution...it merely makes our patients scream less. We were doing similar things back when we were shooting them once the illness went beyond a certain threshold. Until Eliza downstairs sat in my sorry excuse for an office screaming in my ear for an hour and a half to stop killing patients without consent from the families. As if the families protested against such action. If you have to go to this hospital for any reason other than a bad sprain nowadays, you most likely won't come out. People are simply accepting this. But, Eliza clings to the morals given to us by the well off, and thus we requested painkillers...to ease our patients into the sweet embrace of death. And here you are, messengers of such blissful death. You have certainly done us a wonderful service on this day...Ta-Ta!" Raya said, waving at Cassava and Komari, expecting them to leave now that their delivery job had been handled.
Word Count: 740 | Total Word Count: 6,079 | Cassava
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Post by Cassava on Feb 1, 2019 12:02:33 GMT -5
your darkness will be shrouded by my own. Raya was a tad bit insane looking, or perhaps he just resembled what Komari would look like in a few decades. Still, whatever bond the two doctors shared, they both presented with an annoyed air around them. Perhaps they knew just how many buttons they could push before they struck a nerve? That was a bond that only a pair who had known each other for an extensive amount of time could portray. Cassava nodded, while listening to the ranting between the two men. Raya went on to explain the dilapidated state of the hospital to Cassava. Hell, if even the people of Abbayor in the upper districts didn't know of such a bad place, how was a Saiyan who was on her first trip here not be surprised? Sure, she had been told the stories for a while that the Empire and Polaris only cared about their issues in conquering and numbers, and not even with its citizens. Others would argue that the man took lovely care of his people and assets. Cassava started at the man and tried to think of a rebuttal, but he was completely right. "Yeah, I'm sure even some of those living in the cushy upper sectors would be surprised by this," Cassava noted truthfully. She rubbers her fingers upon her chin before following behind the older doctor and Komari cautiously. Her eyes darted between the makeshift curtains put up to give those dying their last bit of privacy, but even that was taken away as they walked through the triages carefully. There were people even sitting in their path with no where else to huddle or grovel. Raya was still raving on about the bad conditions that he was forced to practice and live in. Alas, what could she do? If the Empire isn't even doing anything about this place, what was a long Saiyan supposed to do? Her shoulders slumped as Komari tried to talk some sense into the older man. Yet, he was still ranting on about how numbing the pain wasn't the same as getting to the root causes of the symptoms. It was true, if they could afford to ship these experimental drugs, why couldn't they funnel research into the cause of the mass disease and sickness in this district? Then, he waved them off. Cassava was confused, her hands already draped in a single pair of latex gloves they were afforded. Having to use them on multiple patients defeated the point, alas, they had to work with what they were given. "We can get to work administering the pain meds, would that a….No. It's won't matter," Cassava spoke, her eyes glazed over as she took the gloves back off from her fingertips. "It will just be pumping them one step closer to death. I see. Komari, what would it even take to bring eyes to this? To really enforce the higher ups to make some moves to save these people?"
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Post by Doctor Kaijin Vex on Feb 3, 2019 0:36:51 GMT -5
"The best you can do is what you were going to do, darling." Raya immediately responded, before Komari could even speak. A vein popped out in the younger medic's temples at being interrupted for what seemed like the umpteenth time. As wise and intelligent as he considered Raya to be, wisdom these days was simply just another word for bias. This man was one who had spent his entire career down here in the lower district. A doctor who had bypassed the average lifespan of any medical professional within this district. Yet, carrying such a status as a survivor was both a blessing and a curse. A blessing in the fact that he didn't reach his final days hacking up blood and vomiting his organs with some insane disease yet. But, a curse in the fact that he had seen too many others die in the same manner.
Komari knew this. Raya had taught Komari the reality of the lower districts in an even harsher way than he already knew. The reality of death, and the horrors of it. However, Raya was speaking from the perspective of a man who was no longer even invited to discuss and share his medical findings with other like-minded scholars up on the surface anymore.
"Raya, there is new administration in power. New leaders, means new hope. The age of the Galactic King is over, so is the age of Emperor Polaris." He then looked to Cassava, smiling softly, in both a way of apologizing to her and assuring her that everything was going to be alright.
"I can petition before the Board of Health, before Doctor Kaijin Vex, before the Emperor himself if I need to. I will bow to any dignitary, make any speech required, in order to get some more aid down here. You're right...painkillers won't cut it. Not when diseases have been running rampant in these lower sectors. Not when the mortality rate of an entire subsection of a planet's population is fated to perishing in the shadows. I can-"
Dr. Raya chuckled. A hearty, condescending chuckle, as if he were laughing at the prattles of a small child proclaiming that he was to be Emperor of the universe one day, while not being able to spell his own name yet. Once his chuckles subsided, Raya's glasses flashed a bright white as it reflected the flickering light of the hallway.
"You're going to do what? The Empire has more things to worry about than us. Or should I say...more things to preoccupy their time. Our "glorious" Emperor perished in battle, just like most of the tyrants in this galaxy, as a result of Lord what's his name. The Peace Plaza was practically destroyed, leaving a blight upon our citadel. What's gonna get priority? Realistically? Then there's dissent in the outer fringes of our territory. It ain't free to stomp that out. What's more important? Stability in the Empire, or us? Realistically answer that question. And even if, let's say, all of the Empire's problems were solved in a day, and all that was left was to aid us. Would we even get it? Would they even waste the time? Hell, I think they'd find it even better to simply wipe us all from the face of the planet in one controlled burst of energy. Just eradicate the problem and start over. Like all these bigwigs in power do with anything."
Raya grunted, and turned on his heel back to the main room, where all the patients laid sick. Snapping on new latex gloves, Raya went to return to his patients.
"If you want to help us, administer the painkillers to our patients. Keep them from screaming. I have a migraine from it all."
"I'm sorry....for Raya." Komari apologized, bowing his head. They were standing outside an empty room. Raya had provided for them a pair of clean scrubs and face masks, indicating that business suits and diseased people did not match. As for Cassava, he bluntly told the Saiyan that this was a hospital, not a brothel, before providing her with matching scrubs.
Sighing heavily, Komari felt the need to apologize, for the whole scene. He had never predicted that the first doctor they were to meet would be him. Hell, he had figured that in his years of absence, that the old man had finally kicked the bucket. But alas, he should've known better. In fact, the bespectacled young man was half convinced that he himself would kick the bucket and perish long before Raya did.
"He's a bitter old man. Fed up with the state of this district, but never having the heart to leave. He's brilliant, and could easily become some top tier doctor somewhere, if he were to pack his bags and catch some shuttle up to the citadel. But, he stays down here...like I probably should've. He was the only one....who was livid with me when I said I was taking a job with the Galactic Patrol as a Field Medic. He called me a traitor to my own people that day. To him, it's Lower Abbayor vs. Upper Abbayor. Us versus them." Komari explained, adjusting his glasses as he looked down the hallway, as if fearing the man would make a reappearance, a possibility that Raya was quite famous for. It was almost as if he had some sixth sense which allowed him to know exactly when someone was talking shit about him.
"We've been like this for years...albeit steadily getting worse. To be honest, every doctor here represents the best medicine has to offer. Think of it. Having to work off just the scraps you have, and while not being able to cure the patients on their deathbeds, but able to contain the disease so that they die in an easier position than they would've otherwise? That takes skill."
Komari sighed and moved to the side, allowing Cassava the chance to enter
"I know this wasn't your ideal visit, but it's....the reality of the situation. I promise...we can leave whenever you want to." Komari said as he stepped back to allow Cassava her privacy in changing, heading to his own private room to switch into his scrubs.
Word Count: 1,044 | Total Word Count: 7,123 | Cassava
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