Daily Check-Ups [Cadet Morning Event]

"Yes, that's correct," the businesswoman spoke simply. She would not take offense to the little girl's hasty attitude and do as she was told, stepping away from the wall to deliver to her the medical records she brought. Neatly organized in a manila folder, clearly marked with her name on the tab and sorted by category in sequence, starting with the most recent and to include dental records dating back three years. It would have been more if the majority of her records weren't lost in the Eternal Divide though she did make certain to have her pre-existing issues documented, of which there were very few save for dental records. After all, she wanted to leave here as much as everyone else did and she assumed as much as the medical professionals would like them processed so they may continue other work. She stepped back to the wall as they discussed, she had very few issues at all and was generally healthy save for above-average blood pressure issues (no doubt from work stress) which she took steps to manage and Lasik eye surgery in her young adulthood. Susan remained neutral and professional until she was prompted to become alert again, though a different sort of alert.


Her expression flashed with anger, and it took a great amount of personal discipline not to snap at the brat. Her weight had always been a sensitive issue and this would upset her even in better moods but this was neither the time nor the attitude for such. And so Susan became a much different form of alert. She would be paying very fine attention to Nurse Blackwell, noting down personal and professional conduct and adherence to procedure which she would research later. If she managed to make any form of serious mistake or fail to follow protocol God be her witness Susan would have her job, one way or another. But she would remain professional yet curt in her dealings, she was aware of how these things worked. For someone knowledgeable in practices like she planned on becoming reporting someone for a violation would be a personal responsibility and beneficial to the medical community to point out unqualified and irresponsible personnel. Not doing so was either ignorance of the rules or favoritism, and Susan was fresh out of good will. She took special note of the affirmation of "confidentiality", she was certain she could find examples of failure to follow the correct procedures with handling sensitive information if she paid enough attention.

Susan took another shuddering breath and did as instructed, shuffling toward the curtained area on the right with a serious scowl. She did not enjoy being emotionally volatile, especially around other people. As time went on she would find her patience wearing paper thin, it was only a matter of time before she bit someone's head off and she would rather it not be toward anyone she had to see on a daily basis. Though she was upset and took note that the more inexperienced one would be handling the more sensitive work she would reserve judgement and follow instructions cooperatively and professionally. As she listened intently to procedure and placed the headpiece on her scalp Susan would take care to inform Laura of her personal issues that would affect results.
"I must inform you that I have a pre-existing condition which gives me difficulty in controlling my Persona, which I take medication for. My prescription is annotated in my records. In addition I have not slept last night due to professional obligations, which may affect your readings." Of course, Susan would not hesitate to mention that she did not have time to sleep last night. She personally found it to be very unwise to hold this examination in the morning after the events of the night before and the implications of such, she would let that be known. To all other prompts or queries the frustrated woman would follow directions wordlessly or with as few words as possible, deflecting deeper inquiries with the phrase of:
"I am officially refusing to answer that question for the time being. I am uncomfortable speaking of it and will defer to my primary care provider."
Susan would repeat this phrase as often as she needed to and as often as prompted, making no variance in the way she responded. Just as well, letting it be known to Laura that she was dissatisfied with her conduct and at the same time acting within a professional capacity.

Susan would fill out the questionnaire honestly and in blue pen, which she had with her to differentiate an original document with subsequent copies. She would of course ask for the original medical document after her exam concluded.

Questionnaire:

The Knight sighed. Just a medical check up, how dull for a meeting but he would go through the motions. He remained calm and collected through the physical examination. These forms of check up were quite familiar to him, maintaining a Knight's health was of great importance after all. 185cm of height, 80 kg of weight and Blood type O. He knew those by heart now, but he'd go along with all the sampling. He seemed almost bored, as opposed to his usual impassive, not speaking a word throughout it. Unflinching even as his blood was collected. He groaned a bit in his impatience but moved on to the right line where there would be yet other check-ups, what though was beyond him. And it indeed threw him off, the headset, the questionnaire. It all made him confused.

"This... is rather weird." The knight stated as he placed the headset. "What is even a synchro-rate?"

With a sigh he moved on to the questionnaire, there was a brief moment where he stared at it with confusion but he shrugged and moved on with it.

Questionnaire:

"Is this really all?"The knight cracked his knuckles after dropping the pen over his questionnaire paper, he was hoping for some training with other cadets. Though while he didn't enjoy this, he understood its meaning.

The promise that it'd all be kept private was... reassuring. Cecilia had done her best to keep a poker face in front of the doctors, but a relieved sigh forced its way through her lips. Still, she wasn't under any delusion that this meant an end to her worries. They'd specifically mentioned Julius as the exception to the rule, which made sense given his status and the purpose of the exam, but after everything he'd seen and done for her it couldn't be more dread-inducing. At best answering truthfully would only place an additional burden on his shoulders and take attention away from the other Cadets who needed it more... and at worst it could get her booted off the force out of some misguided sense of compassion or the fear that her mental state would complicate missions. A cold sweat ran down her neck at that thought, but she wouldn't say anything as she shuffled into line, deliberately taking a place near the back and uttering prayers of thanks to Isla for the doctors' decision to examine Susan first. Yet even with the businesswoman and Albrecht being tended to before her, time seemed to pass swiftly and she was left indecisive on how exactly to approach the situation, called over far quicker than she'd initially expected and for the first time ever left wishing for some bureaucratic setbacks to delay things further.


The physical portion of the check-up wasn't much of an issue and beyond listening for the basic instructions she found herself paying little attention to it. While perhaps normally Cecilia would've been more concerned with the specifics of her measurements, it was difficult at present to muster up much interest in the findings, the events that occurred prior and her fears about the psychological half inevitably taking precedence over them. Ultimately though, Naomi would find that her subject was right to be disinterested; the pink-haired girl was a bit underweight, but she had a consistent exercise routine and adhered to a relatively healthy diet (apart from her addiction to sweets), and this was all ignoring the fact that she was running around the city streets at night fighting Demons and dangerous criminals. If nothing else she was, all things considered, well within average shape for a person of her age.

Relevant(?) Strengths/Weaknesses:

When it finally came time for the mental evaluation, Cecilia would do her best to keep up her fractured facade, smiling fakely at Laura as she took a seat in the chair and begged her goddess to keep the woman from noticing how nervous she was. She quietly breathed in-and-out as the machine scanned her brainwaves, silently sulking in the knowledge that something about these results would be unideal, that in the end this information was going to bite her in the ass if it wasn't entirely inconsequential. While the Cadet lacked the condition that some like Susan suffered from, she still didn't get along well with her Persona by any means; Svalinn obeyed her commands in combat scenarios, but they were almost always at each other's throats when communicating, not to mention the fact that she'd been practically possessed by it during a few isolated incidents (the most recent being the time they'd spent exploring the ballroom). Then again, what were synchro-rates anyway? What was the intention behind checking them? For all she knew maybe this meant she had a high rate of synchronization with Svalinn, but that wasn't a pleasing thought, especially when it led her to start thinking about the similarities between her own Persona and the Nameless guard...

After the scan was complete she'd get up and grab the necessary papers. She'd stare at them for a long time before uncapping the accompanying pen and frantically scribbling down the answers, her eyes noticeably starting to glow a dim yellow as time went on and she got deeper and deeper into the survey, her hand shaking with the pen still in it until eventually she finished, slammed the utensil down on the clipboard, and went totally still.

Questionnaire:

The examination would go on without a hitch. Every single Cadet in this room would be examined. But, of course, there were some of the patients who had questions just like anyone who were part of a program or health plan. To Albrecht, Naomi answered, "It's a rate to gauge how well synchronized you are to your power. Sometimes people aren't well-tuned to them and need to be addressed. Some of you who take drugs to use your Personas tend to have lower rates. Others who have higher rates tend to have a stable use of their power."

Of course there were some who had the foresight and kindness to let them know of their situation like Susan. While Laura didn't seem to really care, Naomi seemed more sympathetic to the oldest Cadet in the room. "I understand, thank you for letting us know. It shouldn't affect too much in the grander scheme of things, but if necessary we may ask you to come by at another time should any issues pop up in the future."

She knew how much people disliked to come to the doctor's office and could easily sympathize them. The faint smell of anesthetic and the promise of needles were enough to turn most people off. If it didn't the rising medical costs did. But at the least, if there was a next time, it would be the last time they needed such information. Though knowing the haphazard nature of the Cadet's work, there was almost an inevitability for future tests.

"What? So you can contribute to your inevitable diabetes? Sure. They're at the counter over there," Laura curtly replied at Cecilia before pointed a thumb towards the direction of the glass bowl full of small candies of every type. She returned to continuing the examination alongside with Naomi. Eventually with the last Cadet, this was the moment when they were finished.

The woman clapped her hands together, almost as if seemingly pleased with herself. "I believe this concludes today's testing. You may access your own evaluations and records in the Bibliotheca under your account at a later date. Please, no matter what shows up on the screen, do seek out medical or mental assistance if you truly need it. You're all in a very demanding job that requires constant and careful care. I believe if you wish to succeed well, you must be mindful of yourselves. You are all a team, yes? If one of you falter, the rest will follow. Please remember that. If there are no questions, his Highness I believe will be waiting for you upstairs."

Assuming, nobody else bothered to ask any, the Cadets were bidden to return back to class. Of course, if Jackie was still offline, Maria had to carry him. And yes, even in his inert state, he was run through some diagnostic testing. The classroom was mostly empty, save for the solitary man inside.


Julius greeted them as they began to file back inside the room. He seemed a tad sympathetic towards them. Naomi wasn't a rude doctor by any means, though Laura, that was a whole different story. Normally you would probably dismiss her for her overly brusque nature, but you rarely come across anyone who has as much knowledge about Forgottens as she did. Not many possessed it to any level that Serenity ever did. Anything supernatural was considered a new field of study since the Eternal Divide, after all. He began to write on the chalkboard and introduce several recommended facilities for their use that are covered by the Cadets, should they really need it. But of course, he voiced that they will be required according to the results from today's examinations that would be coming out with its results on a later date.


"Before I dismiss you, there are a few topics that I must bring up. Given the growing influx of Cadets and their rise in the ranks, I will begin implementing optional classes if you wish to learn protocol and supernatural knowledge that will be important for our day-to-day operations. We will begin to have lectures not just by me, but some guests. If you cannot make it, you are welcome to review it in the Bibliotheca. Any lectures and discussions will be recorded there. Second, we will continue training exercises in the Training Area. While these may be optional as well, I ask that you continue any training to steel yourselves for future. Cadet Maria Woodsworth is available to give future personal training should you need it." He began writing again on the blackboard with a small piece of chalk left, worn down by both habitual and constant use. Maria nodded and gave a small smile to everyone to seem at the least more approachable. Last night's events still weighed on her, but she still had more responsibilities it seemed. "You are able to review previous cases in the Bibliotheca should you require it just as you are able to submit your reports as well. Lastly, I will ask for volunteers for a diplomatic mission to the city of Domiona. Registration will be posted. Serenity will represent us. Maria, I want you there. I would appreciate it if you can be present... there are things there that would be suitable for your skills. She can explain more later. On the other hand, I will be preoccupied for a while with several errands myself in Endymion."

"I will be there, your Highness. I look forward to this trip." the Cadet nodded without any lack of hesitation. She knew Serenity. Perhaps not personally, but she was a rather likeable character since their work together. It wouldn't be a bad mission to catch up and ask what she was up to after that night. Though she seemed confused exactly what he meant by skills. Julius nodded and was satisfied with her answer. "If there are no questions, this class is dismissed. Take the day off and rest. You all deserve it."

Cecilia would pout indignantly at Laura's response, but in the end that was all she'd do. She didn't have the energy needed to snap back with barbs of her own; her mind was focused elsewhere and after everything that'd happened it was inevitable that an offhand remark about diabetes would seem inconsequential. Though in spite of her annoyance at the Forgotten's snide commentary, she'd still find herself snagging a few suckers on the way out, stuffing them into her pocket and even popping one into her mouth on the way back to Class Zero. Candy was her comfort food and she wasn't going to be shamed out of enjoying it by some bratty blonde, that was for sure.

After arriving in the room she'd bite down on the dum-dum and finish it off, tossing it into a nearby wastebin, and taking a seat at her earlier spot. She'd listen intently to what Julius had to say, but while it was all relatively pleasant news, most of it didn't concern her personally. Thanks to her experience on the field she was already well-accustomed to the basics of the supernatural; if she needed a lecture on it this far into the job then she'd failed herself and her peers as a Class One Cadet. Regardless, Cecilia could at least be happy for the new recruits who'd get to take advantage of it, and if nothing else the announcement of a trip to Domiona caught her attention... in truth, partially because she'd never heard of it before. Her attention had always been fixated on Endymion and geography was never her strongest subject anyway, so whatever awaited them there was a complete mystery, one that made her genuinely curious. She was sure it'd be a shithole compared to Endy but... maybe some time away from the kingdom would be good for her after recent events. She'd have to keep an eye out for the sign-ups.

Though Julius had dismissed them after finishing his announcement, Cecilia would stick around for a while longer, waiting until everyone else had sorted out their business and left the classroom. After they had she'd rise from her seat and approach Julius slowly, sheepishly rubbing the back of her head as she spoke to him and did her best to ignore the elephant in the room, the girl not-so-skillfully dodging the awkwardness of addressing the earlier proceedings.


"You remember that intern from last night, right? I was considering stopping by the police station to interrogate him. I'm sure I wouldn't have any issue arranging that given my recent promotion, but I wanted to check first and make sure that'd be alright with you. It wouldn't surprise me if it's already been taken care of but..." Cecilia allowed her voice to trail off as she waited for the prince's response. Ideally he'd be able to provide her with the boy's name and any other relevant details, but that was assuming he'd grant the request in the first place; if the prince was observant enough then it'd be evident from the look in her eyes that this was more a matter of personal reassurance than official business. She did sincerely hope to gather information from the questioning, however, she knew it was unlikely that he'd be able to tell her anything that Superbia hadn't already covered. Ultimately, at the core of it all, she just wanted to make sure he was safe. Even with the... recent revelations in mind, protecting the civilian populace remained her primary duty and privilege as a Cadet. She couldn't allow the world to return to the way it was: that much was certain at least.

The examination was quite routine if unorthodox and Susan could find at least Dr. Naomi to be cordial and professional. A doctor's visit was nothing new to her and she was not averse to receiving a medical checkup, as was said one's health was very important and she went at least once a year and as necessary. She took time to thank the medical personnel, even the rude one, and grab her briefcase before she exited back to the classroom, slumping with a blank look of mild annoyance apparent on her face. She did not ask to have her head wound looked at nor would she, Susan would defer to the hospital in such matters should she get the chance to go back. In the course of things this was a relatively minor concern for her, which in itself was a concern that a physical injury would be low on her priorities list.

Within the classroom the businesswoman was pleasantly surprised with how serious this was being taken and the support provided to her. Lacking her tablet she would use her ability to transcribe the facilities on the back of her medical records. They could always be erased at a later time to keep them pristine. The announcement of classes brought a mixed reaction from the short woman, sliding a tired hand over her face. For one she was glad they were being implemented. For two, why hadn't they already existed in the first place? So many of her difficulties within the Cadets could have been solved if someone had made a class available to teach her what she did not know. The diplomatic endeavor was something to take note of yet she would need to know more information and align her schedule to it, Susan would be happy to volunteer for any and all missions however her expertise may not be required. Diplomatic or no it sounded more along the lines that she would be acting as a body guard in such a situation, which may be better suited for someone else.

As always Susan had questions but for once did not ask any, she kept silent and packed her documents into her silver briefcase. The businesswoman no longer felt like speaking to people and if she could help it wouldn't for the rest of the day and likely long into the week. But she had obligations to fulfill and would not skimp on these, a merger was planned later that morning and she was running short on time to meet it after this sudden interruption. Susan gathered her things and trudged out of the classroom without acknowledging anyone else present if she was not pressed to, the same empty look of general discomfort and irritation present on her face. There were plans to meet, and those plans would require tight scheduling and copious amounts of coffee which she would need to make time for.

With the class dismissed upon Julius' announcement, a good chunk of the Cadets were making their exit. Alex didn't waste any time getting the hell out as he jammed into his pocket to draw out his phone to finish that one gacha game. The new recruits simply filed out without much fanfare, though Sera out of the two gave a rather enthusiastic farewell. Maria left without so much of a word, though she gave a nod towards Julius' direction and to a few of her fellow Cadets before leaving. As soon as that group left, Julius would begin to prepare leaving too, at least until Cecilia wanted his attention. "Of course. How may I help you, Cadet?"

He listened patiently to what she had to say before nodding to answer her initial question. Julius closed his eyes for a moment. It brought back a less than stellar memory of what happened last night. But it didn't take very long for him to answer back with a sad smile. "You may, Cecilia. If it is linked to our work in dealing with the supernatural, especially with Psyche-Terrorists, no one should be stopping you. It appears our lucky intern may be off the hook at the moment. The law enforcement reports that a lot of his information checks out from the fact he's been working in the TV Station for several years now. And the fact that he doesn't possess any supernatural potential also helps his case. But, since there are other legal processes, it may take a while for him to leave. I would gather it shouldn't take for very long in any case."

Cecilia would nod gratefully at Julius as a small wave of relief washed over her. She was glad to receive his permission and hearing that the intern would likely be alright was reassuring as well, though the news was of course hampered by something, that being the knowledge that'd he be strung up in legal bindings and unnecessary procedures simply for being at the wrong place at the wrong time. It was unfortunate, but a necessary evil to be sure: better safe than sorry.


She knew she didn't deserve any of this. She'd proven it again and again, over and over, last night and this morning... The consolation, the rescue, the promotion: all of it was unwarranted when she'd consistently put more and more burdens on the prince's shoulders. But it made her happy anyway; it made her happy to know he trusted her, that he cared about her, that in spite of her shortcomings and failures he'd defend her. It was bittersweet but there was joy to be found in it, even if she hated herself for it, even if she couldn't help but feel like a parasite, and a hypocrite, and a walking contradiction for smiling at a moment like this.

Whatever the case, she knew it wouldn't last. Things would return to normal soon... or at least she hoped they would. After sorting out her things she'd walk to the exit and wave goodbye to Julius, the girl sighing as she headed out of the school and toward the Metro Station. Hopefully the train to the Backlight wouldn't be too crowded.

He waved at Cecilia as she left. There was a sense of relief when he relaxed his tense shoulders. This beginning morning had been fraught with difficult topics. Dropping that load of truth straight onto them was something he considered for a while the night of the operation. Julius wanted to wait at least until they were proven ready. None of them were like the old guard that came before them. Though few possessed the mental fortitude that matched them, or perhaps even surpassing them. Now here he was, in this same classroom like usual forced to let them know the dire truth hidden from the City. These circumstances did not bode well at all. A heavy sigh escaped him. It was time to go.