Hush in The Bush

Setting Plans to Prosper

AT TRINITY’S LABORATORY

Her strides echoed inside the room as she moved back and forth in front of Dr. George. She couldn’t stop but to think much. That is not her, but Catheryne most of the time, the events have made her do it. They became subtle. The doctor caressed the side of his nose, trying to stop himself from getting a sneeze. The weather is a bit in haze and there’s nothing more to view.

Dr. George made sure that he didn’t inhale those pollens when they were heading to the base. After their bond with Amelia, they were able to know the steps on how to use the weapon that was discovered and got some information about the Origin. Amelia was forced to spit certain facts because of Dr. George’s prying actions. They thanked the woman, but in return, she had recommended them not to visit her more often. And now, they have decided to keep it in a safe place. They speculated that there is a right time for them to use it.

“Can you stop moving? You’re making my head hurt more.” He insisted and took the papers to the side to empty the middle of his table. His pen had fallen and rolled near the trash container, yet Dr. George didn’t have the energy to pick it up, leaving Catheryne without a choice but to get it instead. She fixed it on top of those sheets and sat across him. She had to gain herself from thinking much.

“It’s been days…” She whispered.

“I know-”

“Do we really have to wait for their call for us to get there?” She asked him, massaging her elbow out of distress.

“Yes. It’s the rule, Catheryne. Even if we want to help the others who are there at the north, the heads are balancing the effects of it. Always…they are thinking for the benefit of many than just a few.”

“So what are we expecting? We’re just going to leave our comrades there with those unspecified people. That doesn’t make any sense, George. We didn’t get here and join just to let our people die. We don’t even know if they are still alive or what they are doing right now. Are they even eating or they are now being tormented? There are a lot of things that we can reckon about them, but one thing is certain that they are yearning for them to be rescued.”

“I get it, Catheryne. The thing that you want to happen is beyond our reach right now. We can’t just barge there like it’s our territory. We should consider that distinct area is beyond our knowledge. It might be a trap for us if we don’t plan this thoroughly-”

Dr. George wasn’t able to finalize what he wanted to imply when Captain Roswal entered the clinic without knocking on the door. Of course, the man isn’t a fan of that. He would rather make a sudden appearance, either for him to witness the current situation or just want to make the others jolt from their sits.

“Are you ready?” He asked them.

Catheryne raised her eyebrow. “For what?”

“You’re going to check the riverside this coming three days. It should supposed to be today, but we’re planning about the north and other teams. We got a tip that Ethernal will come to Howard Organization to offer an alliance with Alejandro Timcon.” He attentively shared. “I’m not sure what thing they would give to the man who loves to play games, but to think that they have the guts to go there, I guessed it’s valuable.”

“But what about those who are with Mildred?”

Catheryne really wanted an update about them and what she’s currently hoping was answered abruptly when Isabela had entered and joined their chatter. She had shaved her hair on the sides and her white puff-sleeve blouse and rubbed jeans warmed her well. But what caught Catheryne’s awareness was the pale, grey smoke coming from her best friend’s mouth. She’s smoking. Most of the times, she would do it when the weather isn’t good or the situation is hard to bear. Frustration could be seen in them, but they needed to keep still.

“I’m going. I’ve gathered my troop.” Isabela instantly said.

Catheryne raised her hand to volunteer too, but was interrupted by Captain Roswal, putting her arm down to her side. “You got another mission, Runner. If you can make it early, then you can go with Infinite.”

She was reserved and didn’t know how to respond. Yet, Captain Roswal continued to pursue her in going. “Okay. We’ll be fast on that day.” She, without a little sense of willingness, assured the man. She doesn’t have an option but to do what is tasked. Isabela caressed her back as she could sense her worries. “It's going to be fine. I’ll make sure that the others will get here safe. Also, we’re going to get that box again which was stolen by them.”

She stared at her. “Okay. I’ll hold on to that.”

After a while, a knock is now heard and it was John. Forwarding beside Isabela, the guy tried to comfort her, but Isabela somehow doesn’t mind his appearance. She knew that John is a flirty one and that one of his women was Victoria who’s currently with Mildred at the north. She thought that John is being persistent to go back there to rescue his princess. Probably, Victoria is also thinking like that since it’s been a week when she confessed her feelings to John. But, Catheryne and Isabela don’t still know the response that John gave the woman.

Though, Catheryne thought that the couple she had seen a night before was them, she had hoped that Victoria is not the woman she thinks she is.

“One of the talkies have been turned on, but there’s no one answering it. I think they have dropped it to where we last contacted them.” He said.

“Did you find a way for you to cross there?” Catheryne asked and started to pack her things inside her bag. She wanted to take some rest since she had been sleeping late these past days with Dr. George as they continued to monitor those who are in the cells. She took a yawn and rubbed her watered eyes.

“We did, but we’re outnumbered. Its entrance is guarded and there’s something unusual and appalling with them. They looked like those bombers and infected ones. Even their smell, we couldn’t handle it for too long. It is reeking.” He added and took a gum from his pocket, which is near to its expiration date.

“Do you still have one?” Dr. George asked, but John had shaken to answer.

Their resources are getting low and just like the other organizations they needed to have some rations and search for another source to feed them all. The establishments which have stopped their services months ago, which they’re lucky to secure them are now slowly getting empty. Soon enough, there will be scarcity if they’re not going to find a way to support those who’re in Infinity.

Dr. George pouted. “Well, if there’s nothing for you to discuss here now, you’re free to live the clinic. I still got important stuff to finish here.” He insisted, which made John brush his hair. The atmosphere became dull as they didn’t expect it to come from the doctor.

“Oh, okay. I’ll take my leave first. I almost forgot, I also got some papers to finish.” He slightly bowed his head and slowly excused himself. Everyone had watched his departure and Captain Roswal had also decided to do the same.

“I’ll go. I’ll see you around, Runner.” He flashed to Catheryne and she gently smiled in return. “May the heavens guide you.”

Now, the three of them were left and they could be themselves once again. Isabela was able to finish her stick and threw it in the trash bin. Her best friend had opened the curtains for the scent to get out. Catheryne couldn’t hold smelling it. Isabela was about to pull another one from her pocket when Catheryne stopped her and took the box. “You’re not having one again.”

Isabela tried to grab it back but Catheryne’s reflexes is out of her catch. Instead, she gave her a scowl, crossing her arms and lean on the wall.

“What took you so long to decide?” She blunted and was easily grabbed by Isabela to her side. The woman kept glancing outside and slowly sealed, which was questioned by Dr. George. “Is there something we need to talk about?”

“Absolutely, there is.” She responded and grabbed a seat. She settled near to him and crumpled the paper that was on the floor. Tossing it to the bin, she specified. “I’ve seen it. They were making those who are normal into hosts. They got so much bruises all over their bodies and their eyes were weak as well as their weight has lost. Surely, they have suffered…” Her expression was in deep tremor as she tried to recall such a scenario she had observed in the north.

“What are you trying to tell us, Isabela?” Catheryne probed.

“Have you seen a bomber lately?” Her eyes were anxious when she said the word. The two looked at each other and remembered what Amelia had revealed to them. They instantly realized that the bombers were set by the north people and that where their allies are being held.

“How sure are you that they are the bombers?”

“Their symptoms are just like those in our cells, but the virus is faster. It will take them just hours before they went to the second stage. I’ve been scanning it for days and I discovered that those pollens that were put inside them are than those which are often seen in the streets and they mostly grow at the north.

“Now, I get it why they have to establish their foundation there...” Catheryne imparted and took a glass of cold water from the jar. She had felt the dryness of her mouth as they discussed something bizarre. “But why are we talking it like this way?”

“We don’t want the others to know. Basically, the north is at its peak to lead. They are prevailing and surely they also are scattering to dominate the other places. Our people don’t need another stress for them to deal with. We’re going to make a way for us to sustain everyone who’re here too.” Isabela said.

“Also…” Her face suddenly stiffened. “The walkie-talkie that was mentioned by John a while ago is true, but they didn’t wait that much when it was on. I’m the only one who got the information that was heard from the other line.”

“What? I thought no one is speaking there. I mean, it was lost. Right?”

“To me, it isn’t. I think it was intended to be turned on in order for us to know what is really happening there.”

“So, what did you hear from it?” George asked.

“It’s Mildred…I believe that she got the talkie with her and she intently turned it on for us to hear. And…she just left Trinity.”

“What did you just say? Our setter left? But why? To what extent?” Catheryne hissed as she couldn’t deem the thought about Mildred.

“Yes…She was offered by the leader to commence their troops. I heard some of their conversations, just before it was cut off.”

“Did…she accept it?”

Isabela nodded as an answer. The disappointment was seen on them. Questions have filled the room as to why their setter have chosen to betray the bond and joined the other force. Perhaps. The group that they’re chasing right now is far from what they’re expecting. Since their first meeting, Catheryne knew that the woman she had encountered cannot be easily defeated. It is an enemy with a thousand shields and she wanted to test how strong she is to handle such presence.

“If that’s the case, then the others are at stake.” She remarked which was also agreed by Isabela. George is currently cleaning those tubes and arranging those syringes in his box. A small growl from his stomach had been detected. He’s absolutely hungry in which they forgot to even eat lunch because of the heavy things that they’re enduring.

“Man, you should eat some. You’ll look like those thinners roaming around if you don’t.” Isabela tapped his back.

“Okay. I’ll be finishing stapling these papers, then we could have our late lunch. Will that sound good to you, Captain?”

“Aye, Doctor.” She chuckled.

“What is your plan for the food? Those that we have planted will not make it these next three months. The air is getting toxic each time the days pass by.” Catheryne said, taking off her shoes. Luckily, there is no foul smell from her, so she’s able to scratch the itchy part between her toes. Her friends don’t mind if she wanted it as long as she could end the prick.

“Bishop is going to explore some near Lake Ample. The new recruits will start their first task there too. Hopefully, it would be a victory. Captain Roswal will be there surely to guide them. Some of them…those kids, still don’t know how the real world is moving now. They need some revelation.” She affirmed.

“Right. It would be great to see them grow despite of our situation.” Catheryne said, longing for her own daughter to do that too. Perhaps, she had noticed that she was cursed or maybe she made herself unfortunate. She wanted to see her little Atarah growing up with the kids in Trinity. But for now, all she could do is to have daydreaming and that hurts her the most.

“About Mildred…Do you think she really betrayed us?” Catheryne asked.

“She’s a woman with her own words to believe. She does things on her own and probably she wants to be in a group that could protect her. She values her life that much.” George commented and closed his box. He’s now ready to take his food together with them. “Anyway, can we go now? My tummy is really aching to be filled.” He added, rubbing his stomach.

Catheryne pushed him slowly outside as they chuckled together. The three of them seemed to be inseparable and their friendship is as strong as the currents – not to mention that they would rather go by themselves to do their own adventures, but their positions are holding them tight. It’s a rope that can’t be cut. They have been serving their people and built their trust, which can be seen now as they passed by them to the cafeteria. Their base is basically the old school, Saturnino School. It isn’t a known one before but its walls are sturdy and high. One of its alluring features is its auditorium that’s almost surrounded by glass. It is where those who’ve been rescued are temporarily placed for examinations.

“Good afternoon, Captain.” A thirtyish woman greeted Isabela, holding a plate filled with mashed potato and dried fish.

“Good afternoon, Mrs. Harp. Is that the meal being served for today?” She asked her in glee, eyeing to her plate.

“Yes, Captain. It’s nice to see you three together.” She answered. “I have to leave. My grandchild is waiting for me.” She excused herself to them, but George had pulled her slightly to give some vitamins to the child. Her eyes arched more when she saw it and gratefully took it. “Tell Lucia to get better, Mrs. Harp. We would love to hear from her soon in joining Infinite.”

“Thank you so much, Dr. George.” She giggled. “She would love to. In fact, she’s planning to take part under Magnify, since she also wanted to be under her aunt’s protection.”

Lucia is a niece of Dr. Victoria and they totally understood the child’s preference of joining the other team.

“That’s good to know. As long as she’s willing.”

The woman was happy to get to talk to them and when they have finished, she went to her shelter to take care of her sick child. The three had progressed to take their lunch and as soon as they entered the premises, the smell of boiled eggs, potatoes and lemonade have welcomed them, together with the others who were already settled on their chairs and tables. Their smiles have warmed the place as they have enjoyed their meals.

A man with his pumped muscles and stern expression had approached them. His braided hair is up to his waste and he got a rose tattoo on his neck. He gave some cracks from his neck and hands and they could feel the dark vibe embracing him. He smirk when he sensed the awkwardness on their faces. “I see the heroes getting over here.” He scowled.

“I see a beast wandering here.” Isabela said with a twitch. They stared at each other for seconds then came a boisterous laugh from them. Isabela warmly hugged the man.

“You’ve grown much this time, Niel.” She said.

The man flustered, scratching his head. “Magnify had made me like this. Have you seen Captain John anyway?”

“Oh, I think he’s in his post right now or he’s in his mission.”

“I see.” His eyes scanned the place, which is now getting loaded by the people. George excused himself and dragged Catheryne with him as he couldn’t help but to get first a tray for his food, leaving the two to talk.

“You’re too obvious.” Catheryne whispered beside him as he followed him in the line.

“What do you expect? My tummy needs me, so I need to act first.” He glanced over to Niel who’s having fun with Isabela. “Also, I think he would consider this because he obviously knows I’ve been dealing with those corpses than my own body and health.” George focused on the food that was being served.

A bobbly voice had greeted him and it was coming from the cook herself. Her blond bangs, almost covering her eyes were so straight that the air might not be able to blow it. She’s wearing her usual red lipstick and puffed, colorful dresses. She had put directly a cup of mashed potato and fish on his plate. She didn’t mind if the doctor would eat it or not, but there’s no exemptions or special treatment in Trinity, not even to the daughter of the founder.

George smelled the dried fish and licked his dry lips. It is his favorite. “Thank you, Petty. Say hi to Mr. Lore for me.

“Sure, Dr. George. Oh hi, Runner. I bet your feet are too tired.” She teased her and glanced over her worn-out shoes. Catheryne isn’t conscious about it. As long as she could still run, she’ll put her feet inside those.

“I bet you’re right. I also want to run from my problems, but I presumed that they also continue to chase me back.”

Petty shook her head and wiped her hands on her apron. “Tsk. Tsk. You should get a foot massage. My mom is offering it. It’s affordable of course.” She winked at her.

Money isn’t a thing for them anymore. It is more of what they eat. “I’ll visit you any time, Petty and thank you for this.” She raised her tray a bit and slowly followed George who already sitting and munching his food. She settled across him, placing her tray on the table. Later on, Niel and Isabela have bound and they have also taken their food with them.

“That’s a lot!” She remarked about George’s food.

“I know. You should it yours too.” He replied as his mouth was so full of it.

“Eat slowly. You don’t want to gain that much that it might benefit those bushes if they catch you.” Catheryne reminded him, which made him to swallow deliberately.

The four of them enjoyed their meal as they updated each other on what’s happening to their teams. They have found out that Dr. Victoria is courting Captain John. Isabela was just silent about the matter, but most of them were surprised to see how persistent the woman is towards John. Niel is being nosy about the two and often spit some words that shouldn’t be.

They were enjoying their food, when a loud thud was heard from the entrance as the doors have sprung open, beholding a woman with a terrified appearance. Her eyes scanned the place and soon landed in their spot, specifically to the doctor. She walked directly to them and everyone had stalked her.

“Doctor. Captain. I’m very sorry to stop you in your eating, but there’s an urgent happening in one of the shelters. Maria is having her nose bleed and she got a high fever…”

They didn’t wait for the hand to tick on the clock. Dr. George jolted and had the girl taking her to their room. He asked his friends to continue to eat and got his food to be covered. There’s nothing more horrific than to know that there’s a possibility that the young lady is in her first stage and that she needed to be treated…if they still can. It is a bad timing.