The Amplus Assistant had tuned into the signal.

It's one thing to think of the abstracts of something like this, but

it's another to see it happen right in front of you. Nothin’ dramatic

going on, just myself and an ancient PC in a musty room. But I

couldn't help the feeling of dread as I saw the faces of thousands of

unsuspecting people flash onscreen.

I don't know how long I sat there staring at the ceiling with the

back of my throat dry and the sinkin’ feeling in my stomach droppin’

to my feet. But I was snapped out of my daze by the thud of boots

approachin’. It was Eyren, face as pale as a haint.

I’M HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THAT THIS PROJECT

WAS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS

We both jumped. It had been so

_

We walked together in silence. Down the winding stairs, through the

humongous lobby, until we ended up outside. There, Eyren stopped and

turned to me.

“Do you think it will ever be enough?” Her voice was low and soft.

than that.”

“You really think so?”

“I hope so.”

We sat in silence for a while. Breathing in the crisp fall air. Eyren

was making a point not to make eye contact. I could almost feel her

psyching herself out to say something.

Eyren gulped, a nervous tick of hers I've noticed.

“Would you- Do you want to go get a drink? I’ll pay.”

“Sure, as long as the bar you pick is far enough from work. I don't

feel like running into any of my coworkers.”

She let out a small puff of laughter, “I completely understand. I

think I know a place.”