IC Inbox

[skitter]

Comments

[tarakan]

Simple on-off switch, yes? That would work.

[skitter]

I'll put in the request. And I'll have the sewing kit for you next time I'm in the greenhouse.


You said you had some questions, too?

[tarakan]

I do.

I am not an idiot. I suspect that Eiffel, Kepler, or Jacobi have mentioned to wardens that I should not work in infirmary. But I would prefer to work in position that isn't custodial. What other jobs have others already banned me from?

[skitter]

Formally, I haven't heard. But it's been recommended you not work in the kitchens or engine, either. [It's a frank answer - she read his ledger this morning.]

So there's the library, the gym, the pool, and... And I think the commissary is completely unmanned, right now, actually. Or there's still a spot in the greenhouse, if you'd want to make that your fulltime job.

[tarakan]

There is no chance I would be useful at gym or pool. [ said in a very matter of fact tone. He knows his limits! ]

But I do know plants. Who else works in greenhouse?

[skitter]

Officially, Hunter and Misty. Hunter's next in charge after me. Sweeney isn't on the rolls but his knoll is exclusively his, and Mister Gamgee's a frequent volunteer as well.

[tarakan]

If you would have me, I would not mind officially working with you.

[skitter]

Alright. Officially you'll have to be on the ornamental gardening roster, but the only person who cares about ornamentals is Laszlo and we leave his topiaries alone. Gardening is gardening.

[tarakan]

If Admiral suddenly decides to care about delineations, I am certain we can find plant that is ornamental as well as functional. Very attractive lettuce or such.

[ There's a hint of something in Hilbert's voice that might be him being a little teasing? Hard to tell, though. ]

[skitter]

Garlic makes lovely flowers. And all the nightshades, of course.

[tarakan]

And cannot forget the pollinators. Plant them in between some of the less attractive plants.

[ But enough about plants. There's a moment before Hilbert asks, ]

Is there anything you require of me as temporary inmate? Last two pairings were...unconventional so I do not have much to base ideas on.

[skitter]

Don't get in trouble, check in with me if anything weird happens or anyone's harassing you, and don't hesitate to ask me if you need anything. If you'd let me give you a bug, I'd appreciate it, but you're not obligated.

In the interest of honesty, I'm inclined to keep a closer eye on you than my last inmate. I've been the victim of an engineered virus and its maker before.

[tarakan]

Do you think I would try to inject you with virus?

[skitter]

No, I'm an unknown variable in any controlled experiment you might run, I'm not human. But I don't want anyone testing any virus on anyone aboard.

[tarakan]

[ Smart thinking, he thinks but doesn't say. ]

In hypothetical world where I did have samples, I would not inject anyone to begin with. The decima virus needs to be carefully treated, with regular check-ups to maintain stability. I would not just jab someone and watch what happens—completely irresponsible.

So considering that there is very little chance I would be able to run those tests and check-ups in first place, you have nothing to worry about.

[skitter]

Mmhm. That's good to hear.

[#doubt]

So should be a nice simple month for both of us.

[tarakan]

Assuming Admiral does not wreck ship again, yes it will

[skitter]

You weren't even aboard when he wrecked the ship.

[tarakan]

But I was aboard during most recent round of nonsense. Tell me, did he tell wardens that this was a fugitive ship when they agreed to work?

[skitter]

No idea, didn't come aboard as a warden. I knew before I agreed, though.

[tarakan]

So you graduated?

[ There's a pause and a frown before, ] You must either desperately want whatever your deal is or have become numb to Barge's normal level of ridiculousness.

[skitter]

Doctor Hilbert, for me, with the world I come from, the Barge is a haven of peace and stability.

[tarakan]

Second option then.

[ There's a pause before, ]

I will give Barge this much. Ports can be nice. It takes certain sort of personality to agree to multiyear space voyage where you see the same people every day. Ports provide variety.

[skitter]

[There's a quiet laugh.]

I appreciate the ports. Some of them, anyway. And I've got plenty of people here I'd stay for, too. One I'll leave for, after I get two or three deals.

[tarakan]

[ There's another pause before Hilbert continues with, ]

In that case, I hope your first inmate is quick job. You are young. Seems ridiculous to spend prime of your life here.