Case #19: Video

[19centconstable]

[The video feed turns on, and George settles back into his chair. He's seated in the infirmary, next to Eddie Spinola's bed. He has a book on his lap. The book would seem to be making little happy noises, except that's impossible. Isn't it

Comments

[hourglass_twin]

...why would you want to know the average circumference of a man's chest?

[19centconstable]

Because I've tried looking it up in medical books, and I haven't been able to find a number anywhere.

[hourglass_twin]

Probably because no one but a tailor would care enough to make note of it.

[19centconstable]

Really? I had thought that sort of thing would be of interest to doctors. They seem to have an interest in the length of babies. Among other things.

[takeyouapart]

[...no, wait, what?]

Your book sounds, uh. Cheerful.

[19centconstable]

[George glances down at it again, slightly uncomfortably. Like one does when one has a very old cat on one's lap, and one isn't entirely sure it might not start digging in its claws for no reason, or vomitting.]

Oh. Yes. It just...wanted some attention. I think.

[takeyouapart]

How did you get a book that's so...lively?

[19centconstable]

It's Mr. Leaser's, actually. [Yes, Leezar, that is how George pronounces your named.] He's allowed me to borrow it.

[scarlet_discord]

[Foodporn closeup of chocolate silk pie]

Hey look, George, I figured out piecrusts! [She pokes it with a fork; after so much practice and some help, they're properly flaky.]

[The camera pulls back and Wanda smiles and waves.]

How's Eddie doing?

Worm that devours--hey, are you reading Dune?

As for what I believe, I believe in what the Greeks called arete. Personal excellence--not just power, or expertise, or virtuous use of them, but the whole package of being the best one can be.

[19centconstable]

That looks delicious.

Mr. Spinola seems to be resting comfortably. Which is more than I can say for myself. This chair is no good for napping, and my shoulder is sore already...

It hasn't said anything about any dunes.

That's very optimistic of the Greeks. I think they mostly believe in sailing in my time.

[scarlet_discord]

Lemme bring you a slice of this and see if it doesn't help. It's good of you to stick with him. I don't think he has any enemies, but it's a really vulnerable state to be in.

Ah, all right. What's the book's title?

[19centconstable]

I'd never have thought this job would be bad for my waistline.

It...hasn't got one. It yells a bit, though.

[needshumility]

I... couldn't tell you.

As for what I believe in. I believe in nobody having to sacrifice their life for the collective, and in progress over stagnation.

[Private]

Is Eddie still alright?

[19centconstable]

I agree with that depending on what you mean by 'sacrifice'.

[Private]

I believe so. There hasn't been any change. He looks quite peaceful.

[needshumility]

It's a very open ended meaning. Easy to loophole. Unfortunately.

[Private]

Have you been there the whole time?

[19centconstable]

Because, as a constable, I am willing to lay down my life to protect the people.

[Private]

I'm afraid not. I've left for meals, and to play a game of checkers, and to look for Mr. Holmes.

[19centconstable]

But...you've just said...

[19centconstable]

You have tried a bit. It's still somewhat over my head.