ERROR: your call has been disconnected

ARO-001 is connected to the call

"Hello. Can you hear me?"

"Loud and clear."

"Good. This is a secured line, but let's make this quick anyway. Did you get the instructions sent to you?"

"I did. I have some questions."

"Of course. Go ahead."

"Suppose I don't get in next year. What then?"

"Don't worry about that too soon. We'll have everything under control by then. For now, just focus on qualifying in the first place and we'll take care of the rest."

"Alright… and what about the boy I'm supposed to keep an eye on? What if he doesn't get in?"

"Oh, he will. But that will come later. Remember, you're still a new recruit. This is training-"

"Training in what , may I ask?" His voice came out short.

" Training in blending in. Gaining information. Being patient . You have one year to sharpen your skills." The voice was sharp with annoyance, which smoothed itself out right after. "Then you'll be sent in."

"…Fine. And my brother?"

"He's well and stable for now. The treatment seems to be more suppressive than healing, but it's better than his brain spilling open everywhere with all those tentacles." There was a pause. "But his mental state has… unfortunately reached a point of no return."

He pinched the skin between his eyes, inhaling sharply. "... I'll… I'll be able to see him, right? With my sister?"

"Of course, but under a schedule. We still need to be discreet with everything that's happened. Not too many coming in at once and all that."

A nod. "I understand. Thank you. I'll report back in a week's time."

"Very well. Stay safe, and remember to report any sightings of the missing girl and the black-haired girl as well."

"Of course."

Click.