[network] @beyonce | video | day 207 | I'd Rather Go Blind [open] [cw cognitive impairment]

[thewarningafter]

[It's midday when Stephen appears on the network, eyes rimmed red from crying, the vaulted ceiling of the chapel visible behind him. It's ridiculous to feel betrayed, as though there had ever been any reason to trust in the healing powers of a system of resurrection he doesn't even understand, but the shock of waking up in a body bag has been chased by grief and anger.

That's not why he's posting an open video to the network, though. Stephen's first thought had been to send a quick message to his traveling companion to let her know he's alright back and arrange a place to meet, but that plan had gone down the toilet the moment he'd opened up the network and realized he didn't recognize any of the names. That's deeply disturbing inconvenient, but there's an obvious solution -- he'll just have to identify people by sight instead of by name for a few days. It's fine. It's not real brain damage, it's something to do with the way the revival system works, so it's fine.

He offers the camera a fairly convincing smile, though his voice is a little raw.]

So the good news is that I'm alive. I'm not quite sure where I am, though, and I'm guessing I need to get out of here sooner rather than later if I'm going to make shelter. Anyone recognize this place?

[He lifts and turns the tablet, giving the camera a look at the altar. It's a lie, of course; he's already looked this place up on Nat's guide. He just wants to see some faces, get back in contact.]

Comments

[peacemongering]

Really? So waking up in a soft bed realizing your life as you know it happens to be over is more shocking then waking up and realizing tour life continues as you know it?

[thewarningafter]

[Yes, it had been. Stephen scowls.]

What is it you want --

[Wait. That's a question he's asked before -- text then, too. Irritating questions then, too. He halts, redirects. Tests the theory.]

You said you were a fan of my work. Are you sure you didn't mean stalker? You seem to think you know a lot about me.

[peacemongering]

Very certain I didn't mean that in the least.

[thewarningafter]

[So it is his "fan."]

No? So you just happen to know my personal history.

[peacemongering]

A few details of it. You are quite famous in medical circles.

[thewarningafter]

[That's not as flattering as it once was, not in this context. He alienated more than a few former friends and colleagues in his quest to be healed, and that's what he assumes is being referenced now.]

I'm aware. Wasn't aware you traveled in those circles.

[peacemongering]

[Well, being a high political figure meant that he went to plenty of award ceremonies and fundraisers. He also had a personal interest in the good Doctor.]

Well, that is not very telling about your social interactions now is it?

[thewarningafter]

So in other words, we've moved on from discussing my medical history to discussing my ego. What is it you did back home?

[peacemongering]

Both are well known. I was a diplomat and in the employ of the State Department.

[Oh well, there was that stint as Secretary of State.]

[thewarningafter]

So you're a politician.

[That explains the way he talks, but still not why he keeps needling at Stephen like this.]

[peacemongering]

That is correct. Semi-retired.

[thewarningafter]

Feeling any less retired since you got here?

[peacemongering]

About the same really. The continual fight for survival on any political field never really stops.

It's easier to disappear here. Less paparazzi.

[thewarningafter]

And here I'd thought we all have enough to do fighting for our actual survival.

[peacemongering]

It's never simply one thing, is it?

[thewarningafter]

No, it's not.

[He really doesn't get it. Why does this guy keep needling him and then backing off it like he didn't mean it? Doesn't he mean it when he says that crap?]

[peacemongering]

I'll let you get back to your day. Hours in which to move are short. Good day, Doctor.

[He gathered what he wanted.]

[thewarningafter]

[Stephen doesn't bother with a goodbye before he disconnects.]