Upon The Landship, A Spark

Ishmael and Erika's conversation continued in quiet tones, a delicate exchange of curiosity and caution. I listened, of course—my perceptive extension allowed me to oversee every word, every hesitation, every flicker of emotion—but I let the discussion flow without intervention.

Ishmael, after hearing Erika's unexpected curiosity throughout the whole interaction, narrowed her gaze ever so slightly. She was searching, weighing the conversation as if trying to decide how much to trust.

"Why are you so curious about this?" Ishmael finally asked.

Erika, ever composed, simply smiled.

"Because I have a mission to fulfill," she answered lightly, as if it were the simplest thing in the world. "And you, dear Ishmael, might hold knowledge that is invaluable to that mission."

Ishmael paused. "…Does Lady Narcissus know about this?"

"Of course."

I didn't have a single idea about this.