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You stop before Punishing Bird's cell, only a short walk away from the Information Department's main room. Control gave you clearance for cross-department Work Orders, though you had to sign far too many waiver forms from the parties involved.
It's as if they have no faith in you, the one that was once their mentor. How hurtful. Well, it's not like you want to spend too much time here anyways; getting in and out before the Information Team Captain appears would be for the best.
You suppress a shudder at the thought. Though she's earned her position and no longer needs your oversight, not even Yesod can keep her playful streak in check. It's a wonder he hasn't replaced her for someone else.
A quick survey shows that Punishing Bird remains docile within its oversized cage, silent on its perch atop a withered, gnarled tree. Through the thick glass panel, it peers back at you with beady black eyes.
[Prudence: EX]
Out of habit, you activate Cobalt Scars again, sniffing the air for future complications. Interrupting a Work Order is a disaster in most cases; should anything happen while you're in there, you'll be unable to resolve things yourself. Not normally an issue, but with so many greenhorns around, you don't want to take any chances.
Bitterness. Hunger. Regret. Brutality.
…An Ordeal. You can't tell what Color or what Time. Though it's still early in the day, all bets are off. At the very least, it shouldn't be a Midnight Ordeal.
You should be fine, then.
The rookies take turns looking into Punishing Bird's cell. They've already forgotten your warnings; you can see some of them falling in love with it on appearance alone.
Hah. You can't wait to show them what it's really like.
"You've all passed orientation and had your fun with the Training Test Dummy. Cute kid, that."
At the sound of your voice, they snap to attention.
"Tell me, then. Which one of you would like to put that practice to the test?"
You place your non-bandaged hand on the cell door's entry key. After a moment of hesitation, several hands raise into the air.
[Select one.]
>Elaine doesn't seem cowed by your earlier words. You'll enjoy watching her get chased around by Punishing Bird. Seeing is believing.
>The twins. You have to physically stop them from both entering the cell at once, which earns you an angry glare. Which twin do you send?
>Unexpectedly, the Nest boy seems up for a ride. There's a slight spark of determination in his eyes. He'll probably do the worst of the lot, but that's why you're here, isn't it?
[3/3]
