Palilalia Emojis & Text

KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY vii (Autistic author) Sponge Bob's mind is racing, his heart thumping in his chest. He had never seen Plankton like this, and the sudden change was unnerving. "What happened to make you so..." he asks, his voice laced with curiosity. Plankton's smile broadens, his hands continuing their flapping dance. "Good book," he repeats. "Best friend." He pats the bed again, his gesture urging Sponge Bob to sit closer. Sponge Bob does, his gaze still locked on Plankton's. "But what happened?" he presses, his voice filled with concern. "You've never been this... this... affectionate before." Plankton's hands stop their flapping, his antennas drooping slightly. "Just happy." Sponge Bob's eyes search his friend's, his concern growing with each repetition. "But Plankton, what's really going on?" he asks, his voice filled with urgency. "You've never talked like this before." Plankton's smile wavers, his hand reaching for the book. "Read," he says, his voice a monotone. "Happy book." Sponge Bob's eyes dart between Plankton's and the complex text before him. "But Plankton, I don't know what this means." Plankton's smile fades, his hands stilled. He looks at Sponge Bob with an unblinking stare, his mind racing. "Friend," he says, his voice flat. "Best friend." His gaze drops to the book, then back to Sponge Bob's face. "Read," he instructs, his tone firm. Sponge Bob's eyes widen, the weight of Plankton's stare heavy on his shoulders. He opens the book to a random page. "Ok," he says, his voice shaking slightly. "I'll try." He starts from the top, his pronunciation awkward and stilted. "Quantum Mechanics," he reads, his eyes squinting at the text. Sponge Bob's voice falters, the complexity of the words tripping his tongue. "Plankton, I don't understand any of this," he says, his voice filled with frustration. Plankton's eye widen, his smile fading. "Friend," he repeats, his voice strained. "Best friend." He grabs the book from Sponge Bob's hands, his movements suddenly frantic. "Read," he says, his voice a mix of desperation and joy. "Good book." Sponge Bob's heart races as he watches his friend's erratic behavior. He knows something is seriously off, but he's not sure what. "Plankton What's going on with you?" Plankton's smile flickers back, his hands stilling. He looks at Sponge Bob, his gaze intense. "Read," he repeats. "Best friend read." Sponge Bob nods, his throat tight. He tries again, his voice more confident this time. "Quantum Mechanics," he repeats. Plankton's smile brightens, his hands resuming their flutter. "Good," he says, his voice a monotone cheer. "Best friend." Sponge Bob's heart aches with concern, but he continues to read, hoping to find some comfort in the words for his friend. "Quantum Entanglement," he murmurs, his eyes scanning the page for any sign of understanding. Plankton's flapping grows more intense, his body rocking back and forth with excitement. Sponge Bob's eyes widen as he notices Plankton's erratic behavior, but he keeps reading, his voice steady and calm. "The universe," he says, his eyes skimming the page, "is a strange and wondrous place." Plankton's eye light up, his hands flapping rapidly. "Wondrous place," he echoes, his voice mirroring Sponge Bob's. "Best friend." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his spongy cheeks reddening. "You're saying the same thing I just said," he points out, his voice filled with confusion. Plankton nods vigorously, his hands fluttering in the air. "You're saying same thing," he says, his voice a cheerful mimic of Sponge Bob's. "Wondrous place. Saying the same thing just said.." "Plankton," SpongeBob says, his voice urgent. "What's going on with you?" Plankton's smile is wide, but his gaze is distant, as if he's somewhere else entirely. "You're saying the same thing," he echoes again, his hands flapping in a rhythmic pattern that matches his words. Sponge Bob's eyes widen. "Plankton," he says, his voice strained. "You're just repeating me." He pauses, trying to gauge his friend's reaction. Plankton nods, his smile still in place. "Yes," he says, his voice a copy of Sponge Bob's. "You're repeating." His hands flap with excitement. Sponge Bob's concern grows, his eyes searching Plankton's for any sign of distress. "But why, Plankton?" he asks, his voice soft with worry. Plankton's smile falters, his hands stopping mid-flap. "But why?" he repeats, his voice a perfect echo of Sponge Bob's. "You're copying me," he says. "Why are you copying everything I say?" Plankton's eye refocus on Sponge Bob's face, his smile returning. "You're copying me why are you copying everything I say." Plankton echoed. Sponge Bob's trying to find a reason behind the behavior. "I'm asking you what's going on!" Plankton nods, his antennae waving slightly. "SpongeBob asking me what's going on," he mimics. Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his heart racing. "Plankton," he says, his voice filled with urgency. "This isn't funny. What's really happening?" "This isn't funny," he echoes Sponge Bob's tone. "What's happening?" Sponge Bob's heart sinks. "Plankton," he says, his voice shaking. "What's wrong with you?" Plankton's eye locked on Sponge Bob's. "Wrong with Plankton," he echoes. "What's wrong?" Sponge Bob's voice trembles as he speaks. "You're not acting like yourself," he says, his heart pounding. "You're just repeating everything I say." "You're repeating everything I say," he says, his voice a mirror. "Plankton," he says, his voice shaking. "Please, tell me what's going on." "Please tell me what's going on," he repeats, his voice a perfect match to Sponge Bob's. "You tell me." Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with a mix of fear and desperation. "But, Plankton," he says, his voice trembling. "You're just repeating everything I say." He takes a deep breath, his mind racing to understand his friend's sudden change. Plankton's smile is unwavering, his hands still fluttering. "You're just repeating everything," he echoes. "I say." His voice is calm, his movements methodical. Sponge Bob's eyes fill with tears, his heart breaking at the sight of his friend. "Please, Plankton," he begs, his voice cracking with anger. But Plankton's response is only more of the same, his words a perfect echo of Sponge Bob's plea. "Please, Plankton," he repeats, his voice a mirror of pain. "Please.." "This isn't right," he says, his voice filled with frustration. "You're not acting normal." Plankton's smile falters for a moment, his hands stilling. "Not normal," he repeats, his voice a hollow echo. "You not acting right." Sponge Bob's frustration boils over. "I'm not the one who's changed!" he exclaims, his voice loud. "You're the one who's been acting weird and repeating everything I say!" "You're the one who's changed," he echoes, his voice still calm. "Weird. Repeating." Sponge Bob's anger flares, his spongy fists clenching. "No, Plankton!" he says, his voice rising. "You're the one who's different! You're not the same as before!" Plankton's smile fades, his hands coming to a halt. His gaze meets Sponge Bob's with a flicker of understanding. "Different," he says, his voice a flat echo. "Not same." Sponge Bob's anger turns to desperation. "What happened to you?" he asks, his voice cracking. "Why are you doing this?" Plankton's gaze is unyielding, his smile a forced imitation of happiness. "You doing this," he repeats, his voice a monotone. Sponge Bob's eyes fill with anger. "What are you talking about?" he demands, his hands clenching into fists. "I haven't done anything!" Plankton's smile flickers, his gaze dropping to his book. "You haven't done anything," he echoes, his voice a mirror of Sponge Bob's anger. "I have." Sponge Bob's eyes narrow, his confusion turning to anger. "What are you saying?" he asks, his voice sharp. Plankton's hands resuming their flapping. "I have book," he says, his voice calmer. "Good book. Happy book." Sponge Bob's anger dissipates, his confusion deepening. "But Plankton," he says, his voice gentle. "What's the book got to do with anything?" "Book," he repeats, his voice a monotone chant. "Book, book." Sponge Bob's confusion turns to anger, his eyes narrowing. "What is it with this book?" he demands, his voice tight. "What's so special about it?" Plankton's smile flickers, his hands pausing in their flapping. "You and book," he says, his voice a monotone whisper. "Makes Plankton happy." SpongeBob grabs Plankton's wrists to stop the flapping, making Plankton finally stop his repetitive chanting. "What's gotten into you?" Sponge Bob asks, his voice shaking with anger and concern. "Are you just messing with me?" Plankton's smile fades, his antennas drooping. "No mess," he says, his voice a sad echo. He tries to pull his hands free, but Sponge Bob's grip tightens. Sponge Bob's eyes bore into his friend's, searching for anything that might explain this strange behavior. "Then what is it, Plankton?" he asks, his voice a mix of anger and fear. "What's going on?" Plankton's gaze flickers with a hint of sadness. "Accident," he whispers, his voice a hollow echo, his body tense.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 16 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Krabs watches, his claws opening and closing in frustration. He wants to help, but he doesn't know how to enter Plankton's inner sanctum. He feels like an intruder, a rudimentary creature in a realm of complex thought patterns. "Please, Plankton," he begs. "Tell me what you need." He leans closer to Plankton. Plankton's eye closed, his voice a soft whisper. "Echo...echolal... lal...la...palilal...lal...la..." The words roll off his tongue, a soothing incantation that seems to calm his racing thoughts. Krabs leans in closer, trying to make out the meaning in the nonsensical string of syllables. He's never heard Plankton talk like this before—his words a mesmerizing tapestry of echoes and repetitions. It's as if he's speaking in a secret code, one that only he can decode. The phrases come faster now, a stream of consciousness that's both fascinating and eerie. "Echo...echolal...lal...la... Palilal...lal...la...echolal..." Krabs watches, his own thoughts a jumble of confusion and regret. He's seen Plankton's quirks before, the repetitive movements and the occasional strange sounds, but he's never seen this intensity, this complete retreat into his own world. It's as if Plankton is trying to build a fortress around himself, one that keeps the pain of the outside world at bay. So, he tries to make his way in. "Palilal...lal...la...echolal..." The words keep coming, each one a puzzle piece that Krabs tries to fit into the larger picture. He looks to Karen, his eyes pleading for guidance. Karen's expression is a mix of concern and understanding. "It's ok, Plankton," she says, her voice calm. "You don't have to explain." But Krabs can't let it go. He needs to know, to understand what he's done to his enemy that has brought him to this state. "What are you sa-" But Plankton throws the fidget across the room, the plastic pieces clattering against the wall; yet his eye remains glazed. Karen steps forward, her hand lifting to cup his cheek. "It's ok, sweetie," she says, her voice calm. "You don't have to talk if you don't want." She knows his stims, his silent mantras, are his way of navigating a world that often feels too loud, too bright, too confusing. She's been his anchor for so long, his interpreter of a language that others don't always understand. Krabs' eyes widen at the sudden outburst, his heart pounding in his chest. He's accustomed to Plankton's usual theatrics, but this is different. This is raw, this is real. He can see the pain etched into every line of Plankton's face, every twitch of his antennae. "What should I do?" He whispers to Karen, his voice desperate. Karen's gaze doesn't leave Plankton's face. She knows that his stims are a way to find peace in the chaos, a language that only she can understand. "Just give him space," she says, her voice a soothing balm. "He'll come back to us when he's ready." With that, Karen goes to the bedside drawer where the box of sensory items is kept. It's a treasure trove of textures and sounds, a collection that Plankton has amassed over the years to help him navigate the often-overwhelming world. She opens it with care, her eyes scanning the various fidgets and toys, each one holding a special place in Plankton's heart. She puts the box on his bed like an offering. "Here, sweetie," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "Use something if it helps." Mr. Krabs watches, his eyes widening at the array of items. He's never seen anything like it—so many strange, wonderful things that seem to make no sense. Yet, they are a comfort to Plankton, a way to make sense of the world. He can't help but be curious, his eyes darting from one item to the next. What could these simple objects mean to his enemy? He reaches out a tentative claw, picking up a soft, squeezable ball. It feels strange in his grip, unlike anything he's ever held. "What does this do?" He asks, his voice a mix of wonder and ignorance. Plankton doesn't respond, his eye widening at the sight of Krabs taking his precious items without asking. Karen intervenes, her hand covering Krabs' claw. "These are for Plankton," she says, firm but gentle. "They're his tools for coping. Please, let him choose." Krabs withdraws his claw, his curiosity piqued but respectful. He watches as Plankton's eye flits from one item to the next. "Echo...echolal...lal...la... Palilal...lal...la...echo..." Plankton's murmurs slow, his breathing evening out. He reaches for a plush octopus from the sensory box, its tentacles a jumble of textures. He squeezes it tightly, the softness grounding him. "What...what is that?" Krabs asks, nodding towards the octopus. Karen smiles, a hint of pride in her voice. "It's a comfort object," she explains. "It has different textures to soothe his senses when things get too much." She watches as Plankton's fingers trace over the fabric, each a lifeline back to reality. "Everyone on the spectrum has their own way of dealing with overwhelm." Krabs holds his hand out to Plankton, palm up. "May I?" He asks, his voice hopeful. Plankton's murmurs fade, his breathing steady. He looks up, his eye meeting Krabs' with a hint of wariness before going back to his octopus without an answer. Krabs' heart skips a beat, his claws hovering over the box. He's desperate to connect, to show Plankton that he cares. He picks up a smooth, polished stone, rolling it between his fingers. "What's this one fo—" But Plankton's antennae snap up, his gaze sharp and fierce. "MINE!" He snatches the stone from Krabs' grasp, his voice a whipcrack of protectiveness. The room holds its breath, the tension palpable as Krabs' hand retreats, his eyes wide. Karen sighs, stepping between them. "Krabs," she says, her voice firm but kind. "These items are personal to Plankton. They help him regulate his senses. Please respect his space and his things." Krabs nods, his eyes never leaving the plush octopus Plankton clutches tightly. "I'm just trying to understand," he says, his voice thick with emotion. Plankton's grip on the octopus doesn't loosen, but his murmurs have ceased. The room is silent except for the sound of his shallow breathing. Krabs swallows hard, trying to find the right words. "What can I do?" He asks, his voice cracking. "How can I help?" Karen looks at him, her screen filled with a mix of pity and frustration. "Just be there," she says, her voice firm. "Don't try to fix him. Just be present. That's what he needs." Krabs nods, his eyes still on Plankton. He doesn't know what that means, but he's willing to try. He sits down on the bed, his movements careful not to startle him. Plankton's grip on the octopus doesn't waver, but his eye flickers towards Krabs. It's a tiny gesture, but it's enough to give him hope.

Plankton! Krabs . • PLANKTON! K̵̡̡̛͍̩̤̘͉̜̺͔͕̲͇͙̩͑͑̾̋̈̍̏̊̀̐̏̾́̄͘͝R̶̈́͛̀̀̑́̕͠A̵͒̔͊̆̒͝B̷̨̤͕͔̮̼̻̮̗͎̜̦͛S̸̔́̔͘!

ᔆᵖᵒᵗ'ˢ ᴬᵛᵉʳᵃᵍᵉ ᴰᵃʸ ᴹʸ ⁿᵃᵐᵉ'ˢ ˢᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵃⁿ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒʷⁿᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐʸ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵐᵃʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᵇⁱᶜᵏᵉʳ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉⁿᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ʳᵉ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵒⁿ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵗᵉʳᵐˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵃⁿ ⁱⁿᵛᵉⁿᵗᵒʳ ᵒᶠ ˢᶜⁱᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵘⁿˢᵘᶜᶜᵉˢˢᶠᵘˡ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢᵐᵃⁿ ⁱⁿ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿᵈᵘˢᵗʳʸ‧ ᴴᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵒⁿ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᶠᶠᵉᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᶠᵒʳ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ˡᵒᵛᵉˢ ᵒᵘʳ ᶠᵃᵐⁱˡʸ‧ ᴬˢ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵛᵉʳᵃᵍᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴬˡᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ⁿᵒᵗ ⁿᵉᶜᵉˢˢᵃʳⁱˡʸ ᶜᵘᵈᵈˡʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ˢⁿᵘᵍᵍˡᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ! ᵀʰᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʷᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵛᵃʳⁱᵉˢ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᴵ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ⁱⁿ‧ ᴵᶠ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵇᵉᵈ ᵉᵃʳˡⁱᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵒʳᵐ⸴ ᴵ'ˡˡ ˡⁱᶜᵏ ᵏⁱˢˢᵉˢ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱᶠ ⁿᵘᵈᵍⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ʳᵃʳᵉ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵇᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵃᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ʳᵒᵒᵐ‧ ᴵ ᵍᵉᵗ ᶠᵉᵈ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵏᶠᵃˢᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵈᵒᵒʳˢ‧ ᔆⁱⁿᶜᵉ ʷᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ʷᵒʳᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵉˣᵖᵉʳⁱᵐᵉⁿᵗˢ⸴ ᵐᵒˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ⁱⁿᵛᵒˡᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁱˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒʷⁿᵉʳ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗᵉˢᵗ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᶠᵒʳᵐᵃˡˡʸ ᵐᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃⁿ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ‧ ᴴⁱˢ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ᵃʳᵉ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᵂᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳᵃᶜᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵐᵘᶜʰ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵒⁿ ˢᵒᵐᵉʷʰᵃᵗ ᵈᵉᶜᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵉʳᵐˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᴮᵒᵇ ᵈᵉˢᵖⁱᵗᵉ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ᵒᵈᵈˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵖᵉᵗ ˢⁿᵃⁱˡ ᴳᵃʳʸ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʰᵃⁿᵍˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ! ᴮᵘᵗ ᵐᵒˢᵗ ʷᵉᵉᵏᵈᵃʸˢ ⁱⁿᵛᵒˡᵛᵉ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᶜʳᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ! ᵀʰᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ˢᵉᶜʳᵉᵗ'ˢ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᵛᵃᵘˡᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ⁱᵗˢᵉˡᶠ ⁱˢ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵒʷⁿᵉʳ'ˢ ᵃ ˢᶜⁱᵉⁿᵗⁱˢᵗ! ᔆᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵖˡᵃⁿˢ ᵃʳᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ʷʰⁱᵐ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᵃʳᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵈʳᵃʷⁿ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧ ᴬˡᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵇⁱᵗᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵃᵘⁿᵗˢ ʰⁱᵐ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᶠᵃⁱˡˢ⸴ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵃᵗ ᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ʳᵉˢᵒʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵘⁿ ᵒᵘᵗʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᶜᵒⁿˢⁱᵈᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘˡˡʸⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ!ᴬˡᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵃⁿᵍʳʸ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ! ᴴᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ⁱⁿʲᵘʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃᵈ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ʰᵃʳᵈ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠˡʸ ⁱⁿ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰʳᵒʷⁿ ᵇʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴵᶠ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿⁿᵒᵗ ᶜʰᵉᵉʳ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴵ'ˡˡ ʷᵃᵍ ᵐʸ ᵗᵃⁱˡ ˢᵃᵈˡʸ ᵃᵗ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ‧ ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ʷᵃˡᵏⁱᵉˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃʳᵏ⸴ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ʷᵉ ᵐᵉᵉᵗ ᴳᵃʳʸ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉˣᵉʳᶜⁱˢᵉ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ! ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃʳᵇᵒᵘʳ ᵃⁿʸ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡˡᵒʷ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ᵃᶜᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ˡᵒʸᵃˡᵗʸ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵃᵇ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ˢᵒ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᶜᵒᵐᵐᵒⁿ ᵍʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵐʸ ᵈⁱⁿⁿᵉʳ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵐᵃᵏᵉˢ ʰᵉʳˢᵉˡᶠ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴬˢ ᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵖᵉʳ ˢᵉ‧ ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ⸴ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ʷʰⁱᵖ ᵘᵖ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵐᵉᵃˡˢ! ᴵ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ˡᵉᶠᵗᵒᵛᵉʳˢ! ᴼᵘʳ ᵉᵛᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍˢ ᵃʳᵉ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵈᵒʷⁿᵗⁱᵐᵉ⸴ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ ᵈᵒ ᵒᵘʳ ᵒʷⁿ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴵ ᵗᵉⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵒⁿ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡⁱᵏᵉˢ ʰᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʳᵘⁿˢ ˢᵗᵃᵗˢ ᵒʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ᵘᵖᵈᵃᵗᵉˢ‧ ᴵ ᵐᵃʸ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᵃ ᶜʰᵉʷ ᵗᵒʸ ᵗᵒ ᵖˡᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ⸴ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᴵ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵈᵒ ⁱᶠ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵈᵃᵗᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴬ ᶠᵘⁿ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵉ ᵈᵒ ⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵛⁱᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖⁱᶜᵏˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ! ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᶠᵃˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˡᵃᵖ! ᴼⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ⁱˢ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ʷᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ʳᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ ᴬˢ ᵃᶠᵒʳᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿᵉᵈ⸴ ᴵ ᵐᵒˢᵗˡʸ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ⸴ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵉᵃˢⁱˡʸ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵒⁿ ʰᵉʳ ᵒʷⁿ ˡⁱᵗᵉʳᵃˡˡʸ ʳᵉᶜʰᵃʳᵍᵉ ᵒʳ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵒⁿ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵐᵒᵈᵉ ᵒʳ ʷʰᵃᵗᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵃˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵒⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵒʳᵈᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ‧ ᵀʰᵘˢ⸴ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵈʳᵉᵃᵐˢ ᵃⁿᵈ/ᵒʳ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗᵐᵃʳᵉˢ‧ ᴵᵗ ᵈⁱᶠᶠᵉʳˢ ᵘˢ‧ ᔆᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᴵ ⁱᵐᵃᵍⁱⁿᵉ ˢᶜᵉⁿᵃʳⁱᵒˢ ᵒʳ ʳᵉˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃʸ'ˢ ᵉᵛᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒⁿᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐʸ ᵈʳᵉᵃᵐˢ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴰʳᵉᵃᵐ ᵒʳ ⁿᵒ⸴ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ʷᵉˡˡ ʳᵉˢᵗᵉᵈ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵉᵃᶜʰ‧ ᔆᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵈʳᵉᵃᵐ⸴ ˢᵒ ᴵ'ˡˡ ⁿᵘᶻᶻˡᵉ ᵒʳ ʳᵘᵇ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰᵒᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗᵐᵃʳᵉ⸴ ⁱᶠ ⁿᵒᵗ ʳᵉᵃˢˢᵘʳᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃᶠʳᵃⁱᵈ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵃᵘⁿᵗˢ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒ ᵖᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʷᵃʸ'ˢ ⁱⁿ⁻ᵗᵒ ᵈʳᵉᵃᵐˢ‧ ᴵ ʷᵒʳʳʸ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰᵒʷ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ᴵ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵃ ᵇᵃᵈ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗᵐᵃʳᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᶜˡᵃᵐᵒᵘʳˢ ᵒʳ ᵗᵒˢˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴬˡˡ ⁱⁿ ᵃˡˡ ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ⁱⁿ ⁱᵗ! ᴵ'ᵐ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵗʳᵃᵈᵉ ⁱᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ‧

ᵀⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵃᵇˡᵉˢ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ'ᵈ ᴵ ᵗʳᵃᵈᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵛⁱ́ᵃ ᵇˡᵃᶜᵏᵐᵃⁱˡ?" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᵐʸ ˢᵒᵘʳᶜᵉˢ ⁱⁿᵈⁱᶜᵃᵗᵉ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵖʳⁱᶻᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵈᵒˡˡᵃʳ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵉᵃʳⁿᵉᵈ ˢᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᴵ'ᵐ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐʸ ˢˡᵘᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵖᵃʳᵗʸ ᵃᵗ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ'ˢ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ 'ᴴⁱˢ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵗ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʷᵒʳᵏ ʰᵒᵘʳˢ ˢᵒ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢⁿᵉᵃᵏ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ!' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒˡˡᵃʳ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ'ˢ ᵉⁿᶜˡᵒˢᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᶜˡᵉᵃʳ ᶜᵃˢᵉ! ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵉᶜᵘʳⁱᵗʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉʳᵃˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ᶜᵃˢᵉ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‧ 'ᵀᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵈᵒˡˡᵃʳ ᵃˢ ʳᵃⁿˢᵒᵐ⸴ ʷᵃʸ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃʳ‧‧‧' ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵗᵃᵍᵉ‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ‧‧‧" "ʸᵉˢ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‽" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖˡᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵏ ʰᵒᵘʳˢ ᵈᵃʸ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒˡˡᵃʳ ˡᵃᵈ! ᔆᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᵐᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵗ ʰᵉʳ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ˢᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧‧‧" 'ᵂʰᵉʳᵉ ⁱˢ ⁱᵗ‽' ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵛᵃⁱⁿ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ ᵇᵉᵗ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵖᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵉˡᶠ ˢᵒ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗⁱᵖ ᵗᵒᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵒʸ‧ ᴴᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖᵉᵉᵏᵉᵈ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱᵗ‧ "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʰᵒˡᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ!" "ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵒʷ ᵈᵒ ᴵ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜⁱⁿᵍ? ᴴᵉ'ᵈ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᶠⁱᵍʰᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵃ ᵈᵉᶜᵒʸ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃ ˢⁱᵐⁱˡᵃʳ ᶜᵃˢᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵉˣᶜᵉᵖᵗ ⁱᵗ ʰᵃᵈ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ʷᵃᶜᵏʸ ᵇᵘᶜᵏˢ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵃʸ ʰⁱˢ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉʳˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧ "ᴺᵒʷ ᵍᵒ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢʷⁱᵗᶜʰ ⁱᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ! ᴴᵉ'ᵈ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ⁱᵗ ˢᵃʸˢ 'ʷᵃᶜᵏʸ ᵇᵘᶜᵏˢ' ᵒⁿ ⁱᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʷᵉ'ʳᵉ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵃᶠᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵉⁿᵗˡʸ ᵖᵘˢʰᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁱⁿ‧ ᔆˡⁱᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ᵈᵒ ⁱᵗ ˢʷⁱᶠᵗˡʸ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᶜʰᵃⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ'ˡˡ ᵍᵉᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜʳᵃʷˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉᶜᵒʸ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍʳⁱᵐᵃᶜᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʰᵉˢⁱᵗᵃᵗᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵍʳⁱᵖ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˢ ᵗⁱᵍʰᵗᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ˢʰʳᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ⸴ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵖᵃⁿⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵉⁿᶜᵒᵘʳᵃᵍᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒⁿᵗⁱⁿᵘᵉ‧ 'ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ʰᵘʳʳʸ ˢᵒ ʷᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷⁱᵗⁿᵉˢˢ ᵐᵉ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ ˢⁿᵒʳᵉ' ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ⸴ ᵗᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉᵖˡᵃᶜⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵃᵏᵉ ᶜᵃˢᵉ ⁱⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡ ᵒⁿᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷⁱⁿᶜᵉᵈ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᵒⁿ ⁱᵗ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ‧ "ᴱᵘʰ–" "ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵉᵗ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ᵖᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᵖʳᵒᵗᵉᶜᵗⁱᵛᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʳᵒᵖᵉʳᵗʸ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ʲᵒᵇ! ᴬˡˢᵒ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃ ⁿᵉʷ ᶜᵃˢᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵖᵃʸᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ˢᵒⁿ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱᵗ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒˡˡᵃʳ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵍᵒᵗ ˡᵉᵛᵉʳᵃᵍᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ˢᵉᶜᵘʳⁱᵗʸ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʳⁱᶻᵉᵈ ᵖᵒˢˢᵉˢˢⁱᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‽" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁱⁿ'ᵗ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵘᵖᵖᵒˢᵉ ᴵ ᵇʳⁱᵇᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃˢᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵃ ᶠᵃᵏᵉ‧ "ᴳⁱᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵒʳ ᶜʰᵒᵒˢᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵈᵒˡˡᵃʳ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᶜʰᵒⁱᶜᵉ ᴵ'ˡˡ ʳᵘˡᵉ!" "ᑫᵘⁱᵗᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗʳᵃʳʸ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴵ ʳᵘˡᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ‧ "ᴺᵒʷ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵂᵃᶜᵏʸ ᴮᵘᶜᵏˢ ᵗᵒ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ ᶠᵃⁱˡᵉᵈ‧

ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵐʸ ᵉʸᵉ ᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵉˡᵉᵛᵉⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ! ᵀʰᵉ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ'ˢ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᴾᵒˢᵉⁱᵈᵒⁿ‧" ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵃʸˢ⸴ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵒⁿ‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵃⁿˣⁱᵒᵘˢ‧ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵈᵃʸ ᵒᶠ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ⸴ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶜʰⁱˡᵈʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵉᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵛᵉᵍᵍⁱᵉˢ ᵒʳ ʷʰʸ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒ ˢᵐᵃˡˡ?" "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵃᵐ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ᶠᵘⁿⁿʸ!" "ᵂʰʸ'ˢ ʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵉʸᵉ?" "ᶜʸᶜˡᵒᵖⁱᵃ‧" "ᴴᵘʰ?" "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᶜʸᶜˡᵒᵖⁱᵃ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵇᵒʳⁿ‧" ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᵃ ᶜʳᵒʷᵈ ᵍᵃᵗʰᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ᵏⁱᵈˢ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᵍᵒ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵉ!" ᴺᵒʷ ᵈᵃⁿᵍˡⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵇʸ ʰⁱˢ ᵃⁿᵗᵉⁿⁿᵃᵉ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵗᵃᵘⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴾᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵈᵒʷⁿ!" ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʸˢ ᵐᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵈʳᵒᵖ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ ˡⁱ⁻ ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ⸴ ᵇⁱᵍ ᵍᵘʸ‧‧" ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏˢ ᵘᵖ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵉᵉˢ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒʳʳʸ⸴ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ; ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵉʷ‧‧" ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃⁿᵈˢ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵉˡᵖⁱⁿᵍ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ʷᵉˡᶜᵒᵐᵉ!" ᴮᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ᶜˡᵃˢˢ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ! "ᴵ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ˢᶜⁱᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜʰᵉᵐⁱˢᵗʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ!" "ᴵ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵐᵃᵗʰˢ!" "ᔆᵒ ʷᵉ'ʳᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ?" "ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ! ᵂᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ᵗᵒⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ?" "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵐʸ ᶠᵒˡᵏˢ‧‧" ᔆᵒ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ˢʰᵃʳᵉᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʷᵉ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵒᵘʳ ˡⁱᵛᵉˢ?" "ᴵ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ˢᵒ‧‧" ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ'ˢ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡˢ ˢᵒ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧

ᴾᵃʸ ᴬˡˡ ᴰᵃʸ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ˢᵗᵉᵃˡ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵃ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᶠʳⁱᵍʰᵗᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍˡʸ‧ "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ʷⁱˡˡ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵃᵐᵒᵘⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ᵃˡˡ! ᴬ ᵈⁱˢᵃᵖᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗᵐᵉⁿᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿᵍʳʸ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍˡᵃʳᵉᵈ⸴ ʳᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ᵐᵃᵈ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ʷʰᵒ ᵇᵘˡˡⁱᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ˡᵒˢᵉ ᶜʰᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃʷᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧ "ᴼᵘᶜʰ! ᵂʰᵒ ᵈᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵗ ᵐᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵍˡᵃˢˢ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ?" ᔆᵃʸˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿᵍʳʸ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ⸴ ᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵘˡˡʸ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈ‧" ᴴᵉ ˢⁿᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ‧ "ᴺᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏⁱᵈ ᵍᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵖⁱᶜᵏ ᶠⁱᵍʰᵗˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ˡᵉᵗ‧ ᴴⁱᵐ‧ ᴳᵒ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵍʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᶠᵃᶜⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ "ᵁⁿˡᵉˢˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵃᶠʳᵃⁱᵈ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏˢ ᵐᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵉʸᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵗᵃᶜᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ˡᵉᵗ ᵍᵒ ᵒᶠ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˢ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵃⁱᵐᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵐⁱˢˢᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢʰᵃᵗᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵖᵉʳ ˡⁱˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ʳᵒˡˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴾⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ᵇᵉᵍᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ⁱⁿᵗʳⁱᵍᵘᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ʳᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ˢᵒ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᶠⁱʳᵉᵈ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ‧ "ᵀʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧ ʸᵃʰ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇⁱᵗᵗᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ˡᵉᵍ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ⁿᵒʷ ˢʰᵒᵒᵏ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ˡᵉᵍ ⁱⁿ ᑫᵘᵉˢᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ" ᵇᵘᵗ ᵐᵘᶠᶠˡᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵇⁱᵗᵉˢ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ᵏⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠˡʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃˡˡ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰⁱᵗ ʰᵃʳᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˡᵒᵘᵈ ᵗʰᵘᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ˢˡⁱᵈ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ˡⁱᵐᵖˡʸ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ‧ "ᴹᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ! ᵂʰ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵖᵒᵗᵗᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ʰⁱʳᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ᶠᵒʳᵍᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ; ᴵ'ᵐ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰᵉʳᵉ!" ᵀʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖⁱᵉᶜᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵖᵃᵖᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵖʳᵒᵐᵖᵗˡʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵖᵃʳᵃˢⁱᵗᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵇʳⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵃʳᵐ! ᴴᵉ ᵗʰʳᵉʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵃ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵇᵃᵈˡʸ ʰᵘʳᵗ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒˢˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉˢ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᶜᵘʳⁱᵗʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉʳᵃ ᶠᵒᵒᵗᵃᵍᵉ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳˡʸ ˢᵖᵉᵉᶜʰˡᵉˢˢ‧ "ᴴᵉ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ'ᵛᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁱᵍⁿᵒʳᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵒᵇᵇᵉᵈ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏ‧ "ʸᵉˢ⸴ ʸᵉˢ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵉˡᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ 'ᴴᵒʷ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ʷᵃˢ ᴵ⸴ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵃᵐᵒᵘⁿᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧‧‧' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵇˡⁱⁿᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵃˢᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ?" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗᵒʷⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ʷᵃ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵛᵉⁱˡˡᵃⁿᶜᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃ ˢᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵃˢᵏ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ? ᴵᵗ'ˢ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵉ ʰᵃᵛᵉⁿ'ᵗ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ᵒᵘʳ ᶜʰⁱˡᵈʰᵒᵒᵈ‧‧‧" "ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒˡᵈ ᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ˢᵃᵏᵉ? ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ˢᵒ‧‧‧" "ᵂᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢʰᵃʳᵉ ᵐᵉ ʰᵃᵐᵐᵒᶜᵏ?" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗ ᶠᵃᵗᵉˢ ᵒʳ ᵐʸ ˢᵃᶠᵉᵗʸ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˢᵉᵉ‧ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵃⁿ ᵉˣᵗʳᵃ ᵇᵉᵈʳᵒᵒᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵇᵉᵈ ᵇⁱᵍ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᶠᵒʳ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ!" ᴴᵉ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ⸴ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧" ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶠᵃˡˡᵉⁿ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʰᵃˡᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵃ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ "ᴰᵃᵈ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉˣᵗʳᵃ ʳᵒᵒᵐ‧ "ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ˡⁱᵍʰᵗˡʸ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧ "ᴼʰ⸴ ˢᵒʳʳʸ‧‧" ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉʳ ᵒʷⁿ ᵇᵉᵈ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗⁱʳ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ⁱˢ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁿ ʰᵒʷ ʰᵉ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ⁿᵉʳᵛᵒᵘˢ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵃⁿʸ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ‧ ᴸᵘᶜᵏⁱˡʸ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢˡᵉᵖᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵇᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵉ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵉᵃʳ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ‧ "ᴴⁱ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ!" ᴴᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˡᵉᵈ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵒʷ ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃ ʷʰᵃˡᵉ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵃⁿ ˢᶜʳᵉᵃᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢⁿᵒʳᵗ ⁿᵒⁱˢᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ "ᵂʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʰᵃᵈ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵍʳᵉᵉᵗᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˡʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵒˡᵗᵉᵈ‧‧‧" ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵃᶠʳᵃⁱᵈ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃˡᵉˢ ᵐᵉ ˡⁱᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵇᵉˡᵘᵍᵃ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ ᶠᵒʳᵍᵒᵗ‧ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ'ˢ ᵐᵉ ᵈᵃʳˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵇʸ‧‧‧" "ᔆʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ‧" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ˢᵘᵖᵖᵒˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵒᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃˢ ⁱᵗ ⁱˢ ˢᵒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵗᵃʸ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᶜʰᵃ‧"

ᴮᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵀᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ “ᴼʰ ᵖᵒᵒʳ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ!” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ˢᵃʸˢ ᵗᵃˡᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧ “ᔆᵘʳᵉ ʷᵉ’ˡˡ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᵂᵉ’ᵛᵉ ˢᵒᶠᵗ ᶠᵒᵒᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ‧ ᔆᵒ ʸᵉˢ, ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵃⁿʸ ᶜʰᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʳⁱˢᵏˢ‧” “ᴹᵒᵐᵐʸ ʷʰᵃᵗ…” “ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ’ˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ? ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ᴵ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃⁿᵈ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ’ˢ ˢᵒ ˢᵐᵃˡˡ, ⁿᵒ ᵒᶠᶠᵉⁿᶜᵉ‧ ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ‧” ᴴᵃⁿᵍⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ, ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ⁿᵒʷ ᶠᵃᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ᵃⁿˣⁱᵒᵘˢ ˢᵒⁿ‧ “ᴸⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ, ᵃⁿ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᵖᵃʳᵉⁿᵗˢ ˢᵒ ʷᵉ’ᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵖˡᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵈᵘʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵇᵉ ʰᵉᵃˡⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵈᵉⁿᵗᵃˡ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ…” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ‧ “ᵂʰᵃ…” “ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉ, ᶠᵒʳ ‘ᵈᵉⁿᵗᵉˢ ˢᵃᵖⁱᵉⁿᵗⁱᵃᵉ’ ᵗᵒ ᵍʳᵒʷ…” “ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ!” “ᴴᵉ’ˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵗʰⁱʳᵈ ᵐᵒˡᵃʳˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵉ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᵒᵛᵉʳ…” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃᵗ ʷᵃⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ‧ “ᴹᵘᵐ ʷⁱˡˡ ʰᵉ ᵇᵉ ʰᵘʳᵗ?” “ᴴᵉ’ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵇᵉ ᵒⁿ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜⁱⁿᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵇᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐᵉᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ‧‧” “ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ!” “ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰ ʷⁱᵗʰ, ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵘˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ’ˢ ᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉᵒⁿ, ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖˡᵉᵗᵉᵈ, ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍʳᵉᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵇᵒᵗʰ‧ “ᴴᵒʷ ⁱˢ ʰᵉ?” “ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ?” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ, ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉˢ‧ “ᴴᵉʸ ᴵ’ᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰᵉʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ⁱⁿˢᵗʳᵘᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿˢ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ’ˢ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢᵃᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵃˢ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᶜᵉⁱᵛᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ⁿᵒᵗᵉˢ ᶠᵒʳ‧ “ᴺᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ?” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢʰᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ʲᵘᵐᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ˢᵗᵃⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴸᵉᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐ, ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉᵒⁿ ⁱⁿᵛⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ “ᵂᵉ’ʳᵉ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵉᵃˢʸ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ’ˢ ʰᵉᵃˡⁱⁿᵍ‧” ᴬˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ’ˢ, ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴼᵖᵉⁿ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰᵉᵈ, ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃʷᵃʳᵉ ʸᵉᵗ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵘʳʳᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ⁱⁿ ʰᵉʳ ᵈʳᵉˢˢ‧ “ᴵ ⁱᵐᵃᵍⁱⁿᵉᵈ ʷᵉ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃᵗᵉ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃ ᶠᵘᵗᵘʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ ᵇᵒᵗʰ…” ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ, ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵃ ⁿᵒⁱˢᵉ‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉᵒⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ‧ “ᴬˡˡ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ!” ᴴᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉᵒⁿ‧ “ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ’ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ?” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ʷᵃˡᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ, ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ…” “ᴳᵉⁿᵉ‽” ˢˡᵘʳʳᵉᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ, ᵉˣᶜⁱᵗᵉᵈˡʸ ʳᵉᵃᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ “ᴼʰ ʰⁱ‧‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵐᵃⁿᵃᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵘⁿˢᵘʳᵉ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵖᵖʳᵒᵃᶜʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ᵃʷᵏʷᵃʳᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵃᶠʳᵃⁱᵈ, ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉʳ ˢᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵘⁿˢᵘʳᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵈⁱˢᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗ ᵃˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉⁿᵗⁱˢᵗ’ˢ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃᶜᵗ ᵃˢ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒʳᵉⁿᵉˢˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱᵐᵖᵃᶜᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜⁱⁿᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ’ʳᵉ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ⁱⁿ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁿᵉʷ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ “ᴸᵉᵗ’ˢ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ᶜʰᵃⁿᵍᵉᵈ‧‧” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ‧ “ᴼᵖᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵉʸᵉ!” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʰⁱᵗᵉ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᶜᵒˡᵒᵘʳᵉᵈ ʳᵉᵈ, ᵃⁿᵈ ʷʰⁱᵐᵖᵉʳˢ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈⁱˢᵖᵒˢᵉᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒˡᵈ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧ “ᴮⁱᵗᵉ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ᵃⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵉʸᵉ‧” ᔆʰᵉ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ˢᵗʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᶠ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᵒᶠᶠ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᴳᵒᵒᵈ ʲᵒᵇ!” ᔆʰᵉ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉˢ‧ “ᵂʰʸ?” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵖᵒᵏᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵈᵒⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ʷᵉˡˡ‧ ᴾʳᵒᵘᵈ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘ!” “ᴴᵘʰ?” ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖⁱˡˡᵒʷ‧ “ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ʰᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵖᵘˡˡᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʷⁱˢᵈᵒᵐ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ᵒᵘᵗ?” ᴴᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ ⁿᵉᵃʳ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʰᵉᵉᵏˢ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵇᵃᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵛ ᵖʳᵒᵍʳᵃᵐᵐᵉˢ ᵒʳ…” “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴴᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵈᵉⁿᵗᵃˡ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ’ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵈʳᵒʷˢʸ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜⁱⁿᵉ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵈᵘʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒᵒᵗʰ ᵉˣᵗʳᵃᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ⁱᵐᵐᵉᵈⁱᵃᵗᵉˡʸ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᶜᵃᵘᵍʰᵗ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ⁿᵃᵖ‧ “ᵂʰʸ’ˢ ʰᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵃˡᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ?” “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱᵗ’ˢ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵉʰᵉⁿᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʰᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᶠᵒᵘʳ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ⁿᵘᵐᵇⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵍᵉⁿᵗˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʲᵃʷ‧” ᔆʰᵉ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵒʷ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᴵ’ᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵘᵖ ˢᵒ ᵉᵃʳˡʸ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ?” “ᵂᵉˡˡ ʸᵉˢ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰʸ ⁱᵗ’ᵈ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʷᵉ’ᵈ ʳᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᵇᵉ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵉᵈ‧‧” “ᔆᵒ ʸᵒᵘ’ᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵃ ᵇⁱᵗ ᵍʳᵒᵍᵍʸ ᵗʰᵉⁿ‧ ᵂᵉˡˡ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ˢᵒ ⁱᵐᵃᵍⁱⁿᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵘˡˡ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵉᵗ ʷᵒᵏᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ‧‧” “ᴵ’ᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖʸ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵐᵉ…” “ᔆᵒ ⁱᵐᵃᵍⁱⁿᵉ ʰᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ, ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵒ ᵈʳᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵉⁿᵉʳᵍʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ‧‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵖᵒⁿᵈᵉʳˢ ʰᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ‧ “ᴳᵘᵉˢˢ ˢᵒ‧‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢᵃʸˢ, ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵃᵖ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵗᵒ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ, ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧ ᴸᵉˢˢ ᵈⁱˢᵒʳⁱᵉⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ ‘ᴿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵐʸ ᵈᵉⁿᵗⁱˢᵗ ᵃᵖᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗᵐᵉⁿᵗ, ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ‧’ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒᵍᵍʸ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ‧ ᵀᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ, ʰᵉ ⁿᵉᵃʳˡʸ ᵍᵃᵍˢ‧ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʳᵉᵃˢᵒⁿ, ʰᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵃʷ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢⁱᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ “ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʸᵒᵍʰᵘʳᵗ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ!” ᔆʰᵉ ᵗʰʳᵉʷ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵘᵖ, ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ᶠᵉᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵍʰᵘʳᵗ‧ “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ˢᵒ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧” ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵃˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ‧ “ᵂⁱˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵗᵃⁱⁿˢ ʷᵃˢʰ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᵒʳ ᵈᵒ…” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ⁱᵗ’ˢ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ!” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ᶜʰᵘᶜᵏˡᵉᵈ‧ “ᔆᵒ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ⁱᵗ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ?” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢʰʳᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ‧ “ᴴᵒᵖᵉᶠᵘˡˡʸ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ᵉᵐᵇᵃʳʳᵃˢˢ ᵐʸˢᵉˡᶠ‧‧” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈⁱᵈ ᵃᵇˢᵒˡᵘᵗᵉˡʸ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᵐᵉ ‘ᴳᵉⁿᵉ’ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵃᵛᵉⁿ’ᵗ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡⁱⁿᵍ‧‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢᵃʸˢ‧ “ᴵ’ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ᵖᵃʸ ᵃᵗᵗᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ; ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᴵ’ᵈ ᵇᵉ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ⁱᶠ ᵐʸ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ’ˢ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ!” “ᴵ ᵃᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴾᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ, ʷᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ᴼˡᵈ ᴹᵃⁿ ᴶᵉⁿᵏⁱⁿˢ ᵗʳʸ ᵒᵘʳ ᵇᵘʳᵍᵉʳ ʷᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ!” “ʸᵉᵃ! ᴬⁿᵈ ʷᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ⁿᵒ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿˢ‧‧” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ, ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ, ᵇᵒᵗʰ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ, ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ᶠᵒʳᵉᵛᵉʳ!” ᵀʰᵉʸ ʰᵘᵍ, ᵉˣᶜⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵘᵗᵘʳᵉ‧ “ᴵ’ᵐ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇʸ ᵐʸ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵖʳᵒᵐⁱˢᵉ ᵐᵉ…” “ᴵ ʷⁱˡˡ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ‧‧” ✧ 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 | 𝟗𝟖𝟗

Bluescreen CobaltTheFox https://archiveofourown.org/works/14973044/chapters/83344819#workskin Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

ᴹʸ ᴮᵃᵈ ❥𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝 - 𝟼𝟶𝟹 ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰʸ ᵈᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵒⁿ ᴹⁱᶜʰᵃᵉˡ ᴶ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᵐʸ ˢᵉˡᶠ ᵖᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵐᵒᵒᵈ! ᴺᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵘⁿᶜʰ ʳᵘˢʰ⸴ ˢᵏⁱᵖᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʰᵘᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵘⁿᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒⁿᵍ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵇᵃᵈ; ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱᵗ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵒᵒⁿ ʷᵃˡᵏᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃˡˡ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵉᵈᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ "ᴺᵒʷ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ᵇᵃ‧‧‧ ᴬᴬᴬ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ʷʰᵉⁿ ⁱᵗ ˢʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ʰᵃʳᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʰⁱᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇˡᵃᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᶠᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ˡⁱᵐᵖ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵉᵃᵛᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵃ ʰⁱᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ ᶜʳʸ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᶠᵃˡᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵃᵏᵉ ᶠᵃⁱⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ; ʰᵒʷ ˡᵒʷ⸴ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵒʷ ˡⁱᵗᵉʳᵃˡˡʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵃ ᵐᵃʳᵏ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳˡʸ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ ⁱⁿˢᵗᵃⁿᵗˡʸ ʰᵘʳᵗ ʳᵉᵃˡ ᵇᵃᵈ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ᵃᵍᵃᵖᵉ ⁱⁿ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵖᵃⁿⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗᵃʳⁱˡʸ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ʳⁱᵈᵍᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ˢʰᵒʷˢ ᵃ ᵈᵉⁿᵗ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ⁱᵗ ʰⁱᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳˢ ˢᵗᵃʸᵉᵈ ˢⁱˡᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘˢᵖᵉⁿˢᵉ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ʰᵒᵛᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇ⁰ᵈʸ‧‧ "ᶠᵉᵗᶜʰ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵐᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵃˡᵗˢ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴬ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳ ʷʰᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜᵃˡ ᵉˣᵖᵉʳᵗⁱˢᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ˡᵒᵒᵏ‧ "ᴴᵉ ⁱˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵒᵘˢᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉᵛᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵃʸ ʰᵉ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᑫᵘⁱᵗᵉ ʰⁱᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵘˢᵗ'ᵛᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ᶠᵃˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵛᵉʳ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵒʳ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉⁿᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ˢˡᵃᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ'ᵗ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʸᵉᵗ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᵇʸ ʰⁱˢ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ˡᵉᵗ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶜʳᵒʷᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᔆᵉᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢˡⁱᵍʰᵗ ˢʷᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ? ᴵᵗ'ˡˡ ᵈⁱᵉ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ʳᵉᵍᵃⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢⁿᵉˢˢ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵍᵒᵉˢ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᵒʳ ᵗᵘʳⁿˢ ᵗᵒ ᵃ ᵇʳᵘⁱˢᵉ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉˡⁱᵉᵛᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳᵉˢˢᵘʳᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ˢʷᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ ʰᵉᵃˡ ⁱᶠ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵘᵖ‧ 'ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢʷᵉˡˡ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵗⁱʳ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵏᵉ‧‧‧' ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢⁱˡᵉⁿᵗˡʸ ʰᵒᵖᵉᵈ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʷⁱᵗᶜʰ ᵃˢ ˢʷᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ʸᵉᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵃʷᵃⁱᵗᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃⁿˣⁱᵉᵗʸ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᔆʷᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ⁿᵒ ˡᵒⁿᵍᵉʳ ˢʷᵉˡˡˢ‧‧‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉʸᵉᵇʳᵒʷ ˢˡⁱᵍʰᵗˡʸ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᶠᵘʳʳᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᶜˡᵒˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧ ᴱᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ⸴ ᵍⁱᵛⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ‧ ᴿᵉᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᵁʰʰʰʰʰʰʰʰ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵈⁱᶠᶠⁱᶜᵘˡᵗʸ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗʳᵘᵍᵍˡᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵉʰᵉⁿᵈ‧ ᴴⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ⁿᵒʷ ᵗʰʳᵒᵇˢ ᵃˢ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ʳᵃᵈⁱᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱᵗ‧ "ᴼʳᵍ; ʷʰ‧‧‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‽" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵃⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵖᵘᵗ ⁱᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱᵗ'ˡˡ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵘᵖ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧‧‧" "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ‧‧‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ʷᵃⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˡˡ ᵈᵃʸ ᶠᵒʳ‧‧‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ‽" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ⸴ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢᵒᶠᵗ ᵖⁱˡˡᵒʷ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʸˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒᶻᵉ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗᵒ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵘᵖ ᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉˢⁱᵗᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵇˡʸ ʳᵉˡᵃˣ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵃˢᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉⁿᵉˢˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵘʳᵉ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ᶜᵃˡᵐˡʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵉ ʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵘᵖ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʰⁱᵐ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ‧ "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʸˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧

ᵂᵒʳˢᵗ ᴱⁿᵉᵐʸ 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕: 𝟗𝟑𝟎 ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ .ೃ࿐ 𝚃𝚠: 𝙱𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚍 ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉ ʳᵉᵗʳᵉᵃᵗ; ᵃ ᵖᵉʳᶠᵉᶜᵗ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗʳⁱᵏᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵗᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᴵ ˢᵗᵉᵃˡ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ; ʷᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵃⁿᵍᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵘˡᵉˢ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᶜᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ʷᵉᵃᵏⁿᵉˢˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ˢᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵈᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵐᵉ ᵉˣᶜᵉᵖᵗ ᶠᵒʳ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉˡⁱᵉᵛᵉ? ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ; ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ˢʸᵐᵖᵃᵗʰʸ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ⁱⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵖˡᵃⁿˢ!" ᴹʳ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜʳʸ‧ "ᴾˡᵉᵃˢᵉ!" "ʸᵒᵘ ᶜʰⁱᶜᵏᵉⁿ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵏⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃˡˡ ʰⁱˢ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᶠˡʸ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃˡˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵗʰᵘᵈ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ˢᵗᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵗʳᵃᶜᵏˢ; ⁿᵒᵗ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵈⁱᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵇˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ᵗᵒ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵏⁿᵉˡᵗ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉʳ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ!" ᴴᵉ ᵇᵉⁿᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ⸴ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ʷᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʳᵘᵗʰ‧ "ᴼʰ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵒᵇᵇᵉᵈ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ ˢʰᵃˡˡᵒʷ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵈᵉˢᵖᵉʳᵃᵗᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍʳᵃᵇᵇᵉᵈ ᵃ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵃᵘⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵒᵖⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉⁿ‧ "ᶜᵃⁿ ᵃ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ˢᶜᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᶠ ˢᵐᵉˡˡ ʷᵃᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵘᵖ?" ᴺᵒ ⁱⁿᵈⁱᶜᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵃᵗˢᵒᵉᵛᵉʳ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ⁿᵘᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴᵉˡˡᵒ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ "ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵉˡᵖ ⁱˢ ⁿᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ‧" "ᴰⁱᵈ ᵐʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʳⁱˢᵏ ᵇʳᵃⁱⁿ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˢᵗʰᵐᵃ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ "ᴴᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵐᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃˢᵗʰᵐᵃ⸴ ᵃˢ ᴵ ʰᵘʳᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒⁿˡʸ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿˢᵉ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ; ᴵ'ᵈ ᵈᵒ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵘⁿᵈᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵒⁿⁿⁱᵛⁱⁿᵍ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ⸴ ᵖˡᵉᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵉᵍᵍⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵉᵐᵖᵃᵗʰʸ‧ "ᴴᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ˢⁿᵉᵃᵏ ⁱⁿ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵃⁿⁿᵒᵘⁿᶜᵉᵈ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵃʷˡᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴᵉ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃ ᶜʰⁱᶜᵏᵉⁿ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ˡᵉᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ʷᵒʳʳʸ‧ ᴺᵒʷ⸴ ˡᵒᵒᵏ!" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ ʷᵃᵛᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ˢᶜᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ˢᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵃʸ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ?" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᶜᵒᵐᵃ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ˢⁱˡᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶜᵃⁿˢ ⁱⁿᵈⁱᶜᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᶜᵒᵐᵃ‧ "ᴴⁱˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵉᵃᵏᵉʳ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵉᑫᵘⁱᵖᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ⁱⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉʸᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢⁿᵉˢˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢʰᵘᵗ ᵒᶠᶠ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ ˢᵖˡⁱᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢʰⁱᵖ‧ "ᴬˢˢᵘᵐⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵘᵖ⸴ ᵈᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʰᵉ'ˡˡ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗᵗᵉᵈ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ'ˢ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉᵈ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ᶠᵘʳᵗʰᵉʳ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ʰᵉ ˡᵃˢᵗ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵐᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ʷⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇˡᵃᵐᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃⁿˣⁱᵒᵘˢˡʸ ᵗᵃˡᵏᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵘⁿᵃʷᵃʳᵉ‧ "ᴵ ᵐⁱˢˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʷᵉ'ʳᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ⸴ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵐʸ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵒⁿᵉʸ ᶜᵒⁿˢᵘᵐᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ‧ ᴮᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵈʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˡˡ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵉ‧ ᴵ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵐⁱˢˢᵉˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ⁿᵃᵍᵍⁱⁿᵍ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃʷᵏʷᵃʳᵈˡʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃ ᵍⁱᵍᵍˡᵉ‧ "ᴵ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵗᵃʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᶜʳʸ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᵘᵖ ᵒᶠ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳⁱᵉˢ‧ "ᴵ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱᵈᵉᵃ ᵗᵒ ᵖʳᵃⁿᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ʷᵃˢ ˢᵒ ᶠᵘⁿⁿʸ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶠᵃᶜᵉˢ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ‧ "ᵂᵉ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ'ᵛᵉ ˢʰᵒʷⁿ ᵒᵘʳ ᵖᵉᵉʳˢ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʲᵒᵇ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ‧‧‧" ᶜʰᵘᶜᵏˡⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒʷ‧ "ᔆʰᵒʷ 'ᵉᵐ ʷʰᵒ'ᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵃˢᵗ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰ‧‧‧" ᔆᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ʷᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ⁱⁿ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵉʸᵉˢ‧ "ᴵ'ᵈ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵐʸ ᵐᵒⁿᵉʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵐʸ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᵀʰᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʳᵉᵍᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢⁿᵉˢˢ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ᶠᵃʳᵃʷᵃʸ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ⸴ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ⁿᵒʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ˡⁱᵐᵇᵒˡⁱᵏᵉ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵘʳʳᵒᵘⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍˢ⸴ ᵉʸᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢʰᵘᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉⁿ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᶜˡᵉᵃʳᵉʳ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᶠᵃʳᵃʷᵃʸ‧ ᴴᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ ˡⁱᵏᵉ 'ˢᵒʳʳʸ' ᵃⁿᵈ 'ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ' ᵃⁿᵈ 'ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ' ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰᵒ ˢᵖᵒᵏᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵐᵒⁿⁱᵗᵒʳᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ⸴ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ᵃ ᶜʰᵃⁿᵍᵉ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵈᵉᵗᵉᶜᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵖᵒˢˢⁱᵇˡᵉ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵛᵃˡ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃˢ ˢⁱᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗᵉʳ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ʸᵉᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ; ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʳᵉᵐᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵉᑫᵘⁱᵖᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜʳⁱᵉˢ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵐᵉ ˡᵉˢˢ ᵈⁱˢᵗᵃⁿᵗ ˢᵒᵘⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉˢ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵐᵃⁿᵃᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶠˡᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ‧ "ᴬᵘ‧‧‧" ᔆⁱᵍʰᵗ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵉᵗ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ‧‧‧" ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ⸴ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵐⁱˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴⁱ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ! ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢʷᵉᵉᵗˡʸ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ᶜᵃⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵃʸ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏⁱⁿᵍ?" ᴬˢᵏᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵖˡᵉᵗᵉˡʸ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒʳᵐᵃˡ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵗʳᵘᵍᵍˡᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵍʳᵒᵍᵍʸ‧ ᴹᵉᵐᵒʳⁱᵉˢ ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵃˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᶜʰⁱᶜᵏᵉⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵉᵗʷᵉᵉⁿ⸴ ⁿᵒʳ ʰᵒʷ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʰᵃˢ ᵖᵃˢˢᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ⁿᵃʳʳᵒʷᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ "ᶜʰⁱᶜᵏᵉⁿ" ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵖʳᵒᶜᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʰⁱᵐ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵃᶜʰᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵒʳᵐᵉʳ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ‧ "ᴵ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧"

“HEAR ME KRABS! WHEN I DISCOVER YOUR FORMULA FOR KRABBY PATTIES I’LL RUN YOU OUT OF BUSINESS! I W E N T T O C O L L E G E!”

ᵀⁱᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ pt. 1 ⁽ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵛⁱᵒˡᵉⁿᵗ, ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃˢ ˡⁱᵗᵗˡᵉ⸴ ʰᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵗᵃˡ ᵉⁿᵉᵐⁱᵉˢ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿᵈᵘˢᵗʳʸ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ˢᵃᵛᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵇᵘˡˡⁱᵉˢ ʷʰᵒ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵐᵖ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ; ⁱʳᵒⁿⁱᶜ⸴ ᵃˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵉᵖˢ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵃᵈ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ⸴ ᵘⁿˡⁱᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵒ ʰᵃˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵃⁿʸ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳˢ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵈᵉˢᵖⁱˢᵉ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵘᵗᵘᵃˡ ᵇᵉᵗʷᵉᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉᵐ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵃˡˡ ˢᵉᵉᵐᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵃⁿᵍᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ⸴ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵉᵃʳˡʸ ˡᵒˢᵗ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉ‧ ᴬ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ⸴ ⁱᵗ ʷᵃˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʷ ⁱᵗ ᵍᵒ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ᶠᵘˡˡ ˢᵖᵉᵉᵈ‧ ᶠᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿⁱᵐᵃˡ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵗᵗᵃᶜᵏ⸴ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱˢ ⁿᵉᵐᵉˢⁱˢ ᵗʳʸ ᵗᵒ ˡᵘʳᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵃʷᵃʸ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ'ˡˡ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵘʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒ!" ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ᵗᵘᵐᵇˡᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵒˡˡᵃᵖˢᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃˡᵗʰ ᶜᵉⁿᵗʳᵉ‧ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵏⁿᵉʷ⸴ ʰᵉ ʷᵃˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗⁱᵉⁿᵗ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ ᵃʳᵉᵃ ᵃˢ ᵃ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵛⁱᵗᵃˡˢ‧ ᴬᵖᵖᵃʳᵉⁿᵗˡʸ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿⁱᵐᵃˡ ᶜᵒⁿᵗʳᵒˡ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵃᵖᵗᵘʳᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʳᵃⁿˢᶠᵉʳ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶻᵒᵒ‧ "ᴵ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ⁱᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰ ᵐᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʸᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃˢᵗ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃˢ ᴵ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ʰᵉʳᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢᵒ ˡᵘᶜᵏʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡⁱᵛᵉ‧ ᴵᶠ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵃⁿᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵘˢᵗ'ᵛᵉ ˢᵃᵛᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ˡⁱᶠᵉ⸴ ᵈᵒᶜ‧‧‧ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ‽" "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵈᵒᵘᵇᵗᶠᵘˡ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ˡˡ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ‧‧‧" ᔆᵃⁱᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ ᶜᵒᵗ⸴ ˡⁱᶠᵉˡᵉˢˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ'ᵛᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳᵃᶜᵗᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ! "ᵂᵉ ˢᵃʷ ʸᵒᵘ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵃ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿⁱᵐᵃˡ ᶜᵒⁿᵗʳᵒˡ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶻᵒᵒ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃⁿⁱᵐᵃˡ ᶜᵒⁿᵗʳᵒˡ ᵃˡᵉʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵘˢ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱⁿʲᵘʳᵉᵈ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵍᵘʸ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ 'ˡⁱᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵍᵘʸ' ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ ⁿᵒʳᵐᵃˡˡʸ ʷᵃʳʳᵃⁿᵗ ᵃⁿ ᵘᵖʳᵒᵃʳⁱᵒᵘˢ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿˢᵉ‧ ʸᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵒᵇˡⁱᵛⁱᵒᵘˢ⸴ ᵈᵉˢᵖⁱᵗᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵃᶜʰⁱⁿᵉˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵃʸ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵐᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷᵉ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ˢᵉᵉ ᵉʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵉʸᵉ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵃᵈ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰ‧ "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵃʸ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏˢ‧‧‧" to be cont. Pt. 2

I V X L C D M 1 5 10 50 100 500 1000 🔢 Individual decimal places Thousands Hundreds Tens Units 1 M C X I 2 MM CC XX II 3 MMM CCC XXX III 4 CD XL IV 5 D L V 6 DC LX VI 7 DCC LXX VII 8 DCCC LXXX VIII 9 CM XC IX

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ᶜʳᵃᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵖʳᵉˢˢᵘʳᵉ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ - 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 𝟶.𝟼𝚔? ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵒᵛᵉˢ ᵐᵒⁿᵉʸ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃˢʰ ᵖʳⁱᶻᵉ ᵃᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵛⁱˡˡᵃⁱⁿ ᶜᵒⁿ‧‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᵛᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ ᵃʳᵍᵘⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᔆᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ᵃˡˡ ʷᵉᵃᵏ ᶠᵒʳ ᵖⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵐᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵒ ᵗᵃˡˡ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ ˢᵃʸˢ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴰᵉⁿⁿⁱˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵃᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵗᵃˡᵉ ˢᵗʳᵃⁿᵍˡᵉʳ ᶜⁱʳᶜˡᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᶠˡᵃᵗˢ ᶠˡᵒᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ʲᵒⁱⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ! ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵉⁿᵉᵐⁱᵉˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ ᵐᵘᶜʰ⸴ ᵒʳ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ᵇᵉᵃᵗᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ ᵇᵃᵈˡʸ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵃⁿᵍ‧ ᴮʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉᵐ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢᵃʷ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵇᵃᵈˡʸ ʰᵘʳᵗ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿˢᵘˡᵗˢ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʷᵒʳʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ⁿᵉᵐᵉˢⁱˢ ᵈʸⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉⁿᵗⁱʳᵉˡʸ ᵈᵉᶠᵉᵃᵗᵉᵈ‧ ᴬ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵍᵘʸ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵘᵖ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵇʸ ᵖᵘˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵃⁿᵗᵉⁿⁿᵃ‧ "ᵂᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʰᵉˡᵖˡᵉˢˢ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ ᵗᵒᵗᵃˡˡʸ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ˢˡᵃᶜᵏ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡⁱᵐᵇˢ ˡⁱᵐᵖˡʸ ʰᵃⁿᵍⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ ᔆᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᵐᵒᵗⁱᵒⁿˡᵉˢˢ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᵐᵉʳᶜʸ⸴ ⁿᵒʳᵐᵃˡˡʸ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʲᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵃⁿʸ ᶜʰᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ; ᵇᵘᵗ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇᵒᵈʸ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ ᵒᶠ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵃᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵉᵃᵗʰ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵗʳᵘˡʸ ᵃʷᶠᵘˡ‧‧ "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵗʰᵉᵐ⸴ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉˢⁱᵗᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ‽" "ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵐᵉ‧" ᵀʰᵉʸ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ ⁿᵒʷ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᵍᵒ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵃᵛʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵘˢ ʷᵉˡˡ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ‧ ᵂⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵒᵗⁱᵒⁿˡᵉˢˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵏⁿᵉˡᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ʳᵒˡˡ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵒⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵘⁿᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃᵈˡʸ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ ᵇᵒᵈʸ‧‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃⁿ ᵃʳᵐ⸴ ⁱᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵈʳᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵃˢˢᵉˢˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉˣᵗᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰᵒʷ ⁱⁿʲᵘʳᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵖᵘˡˢᵉ⸴ ˢⁱᵍʰⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ʳᵉˡⁱᵉᶠ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵒˡᵈˢ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉᵃʳᵗ ˢᵒᵘⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ʰᵉˡᵖ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˡⁱᵐᵖ ᵇᵒᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁿᵒ ʳᵉˢⁱˢᵗᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵃᵗ ᵃˡˡ‧ "ᴺᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉⁿ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵃ ʷᵉᵗ ʳᵃᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵉʰᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒ ˢⁱᵍⁿ ᵒᶠ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵖʳᵉᵖᵃʳᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ ʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵘᵖ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ⁿᵒ ᵉⁿᵉʳᵍʸ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᵇᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉˢⁱᵈᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵒᶠ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ʷᵃˢʰ ᶜˡᵒᵗʰ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵗʷⁱᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉⁿˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒˡᵈ ʳᵃᵍ ᵈᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈⁱᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃˢʰ ᶜˡᵒᵗʰ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵒʷˡ ᵗᵒ ʷᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ ᵂᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵃⁿᵃᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢˡᵒʷˡʸ ᶠˡᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ‧ "ᴼᵘᵍʰʰ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵃᶠᵉ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒʷ ˢᑫᵘᵉᵉᶻᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵉˣᶜᵉˢˢ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵃᵍ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇˡⁱⁿᵏᵉᵈ⸴ ʳᵉᵍᵃⁱⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠˡⁱⁿᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳˢ ᵈᵘˡˡ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ‧ "ᵂᵃᵘᵍʰ ʰᵒʷ⸴ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧" "ᵂʰᵉⁿ’ᵈ‧‧‧ ʸᵃʰ⸴ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗʳᵘᵍᵍˡᵉ‧ "ᴳᵃʰ⸴ ᵐʸ⸴ ᵐʸ ʰᵉᵃᵈ; ᵃʷ‧ ᵂᵃʰʰʰʰ ᵂʰᵃᵗ⸴ ʷᵃʰʰ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‽" "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒᵇ? ᴵ'ᵈ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᵐʸ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʷᵉᵃᵏ‧ "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵈʳⁱⁿᵏ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ‧ "ᵂᵃⁱᵗ ʷʰʸ ᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉˡᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ? ᴬʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ˢᵒ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵈⁱᵉ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʸᵒᵘ! ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ'ᵗ ᵉˣᵃᶜᵗˡʸ ˢᵉᵉ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˢᵃᵈ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗˢ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵃᵗ ᵐᵉ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉⁿ'ᵗ ˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵃˡᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴵ⸴ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ʷᵉˡᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ ᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵉᵃˡ ʸᵒᵘʳ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱᵗ; ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ⸴ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ‧‧"

BLUESCREEN Plankton’s thoughts were elsewhere as he focused the lens. More than once, he had to stop and blink blurriness out of his vision or rub the sleep out of his eye. He hadn’t slept regularly for days since he’d woken up from a brief three-hour nap this time yesterday evening, which did little to help his exhaustion. And now, here Plankton was. Miserable, sleep-deprived, and half-crazed with conflicting thoughts, peering blearily into a telescope at an absurd hour of the night. Argh! He bumped his head hard against the telescope to keep that thought from solidifying. Running on so little sleep Plankton glanced warily He looked at Karen’s darkened monitor for a moment with apprehension, expecting her to awaken from sleep mode and start in on him anew for sneaking around, but her screen remained dim. In response, a very loud whirring noise emitted from within her monitor, and Plankton tilted his head in confusion. She’d never made a sound like that before. Plankton stared numbly. “Honey bunch?” his voice is small, quavering. The next day Krabs found out she’s in hospital. It's amazing how much information Bikini Bottom Hospital would give out over the phone. Just supplying his name and fudging a little about his relationship to the couple was enough for Krabs to get the gist of what had happened last night, even including some details that had been omitted from the short entry in the morning paper. He took careful notes as he spoke with the nurse. Karen's condition was critical. Plankton had been given a mild sedative upon his arrival with Karen at the hospital. Doctors found him inconsolable; a perfect nervous wreck. They'd taken one look at him and deemed him both too emotional and sleep-deprived to be of much help answering questions. A little sleep never hurt anybody so far as the doctors were concerned. If you asked them, it was for his own good. Plankton had been so tired that the low dosage sedative had knocked him out nearly instantly. He hadn't budged in hours, and doctors predicted he'd stay down until at least late that afternoon. Krabs asked about the Hospital’s visitation hours while they were on the subject. He’d wanted to swing by that morning, but if Plankton was finally catching up on some much-needed rest, maybe he should put off on the visit. The last thing he wanted was to disturb him. The hours rolled by slowly after those difficult phone calls, and Krabs found himself pacing his office restlessly as he allowed Plankton a little time to catch up on his z’s. When the lunch rush started to wind down, Krabs retreated to his office. He placed another phone call to the hospital to see if Plankton was awake yet. The nurse confirmed that he was, and feeling better than he had been before when he first arrived last night. So Krabs arrived at their hospital room. Plankton was sitting close to the edge of Karen's wheeled bedside table. He lurched his head up off his hands with a funny-sounding snort; he must’ve been starting to doze off. Finally, Plankton spoke. His voice was tired. Resigned. “Oh hey Krabs.” “Wanna stay with me tonight?” Plankton was looking at Karen's monitor again, his antennae twitching in acknowledgment of Krabs’s words. Plankton thought about this for only a few seconds. Clearly, Krabs had gotten through to him or recovering from his recent sleeplessness was making him more agreeable. At least the extra long rest did him some good. Plankton was thoughtfully quiet beside him in the passenger seat. He peered up over the door to the quiet, still nighttime flowers overhead as the night rushed by. Krabs stole a glance at him now and then as he drove. He stooped down, offering Plankton his claw so he wouldn’t have to jump up the stairs. “Come on. Let me show you your room while you’re stayin’ over.” Plankton was sitting on the edge of Krabs’s hammock. The fabric barely dipped underneath him. “Uh, hey Eugene,” started Plankton as Krabs reached for the door. Krabs paused, with his back to him, listening. “Hmm?” “Goodnight.” Krabs looked over his shoulder and gave him a small smile. “Goodnight, Plankton.” Next day Plankton glanced over his shoulder at him. Krabs was glad to see he looked rested, despite having stayed in a strange place overnight. “Mornin’, Sheldon,” returned Krabs. “How’d ye sleep? Get any word from the hospital overnight?” “Slept okay, but not great. Strange place, you know? And no, not yet.” Krabs went upstairs to get dressed for work. He was pleased to see that his bedroom was almost exactly as he’d left it, other than the disturbed sheets where Plankton had slept the previous night. When he came back downstairs a few minutes later, Plankton was sitting on the couch with his chin resting on one hand, staring hard straight ahead with a thoughtful, worried look on his face.

ᵀᵒᵒᵗʰ ᴮᵉ ᵀᵒˡᵈ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ᶠᵃᵗʰᵉʳ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵐᵘᵐ‧ “ᴴᵉʸ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ; ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ʷⁱˢᵈᵒᵐ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧” ᔆᵒ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ᵈʳᵒᵖˢ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉⁿᵗⁱˢᵗ ⁿᵒʷ‧ “ᴴⁱ, ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ!” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ᵍʳᵉᵉᵗˢ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃˢ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉˢ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉⁿᵗⁱˢᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶜʰᵃⁱʳ’ˢ ᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ʰᵘⁿᵈʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰⁱʳᵗʸ ᶠⁱᵛᵉ ᵈᵉᵍʳᵉᵉ ᵃⁿᵍˡᵉ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵖˡᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ⁿ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵘʳˢᵉ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᶜʳʸ‧ “ᴰᵒⁿ’ᵗ ʷᵒʳʳʸ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ, ᴵ’ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵃⁱʳ!” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ, ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ? ᔆᵒ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ, ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ’ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵇᵉ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ‧” ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵘʳˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵗᵘʳⁿˢ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵖᵃᵗⁱᵉⁿᵗ‧ “ᴬʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʰᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵒʳ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ʰᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ?” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ “ᴺᵒʷ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ, ʷᵉ’ᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜⁱⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʸᵒᵘ‧ ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵖⁱˡˡ ᶠᵒʳᵐ ᵒʳ ˡⁱᑫᵘⁱᵈ ᵈʳⁱⁿᵏ ᶠᵒʳᵐ?” ᴴᵉ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜⁱⁿᵉ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵃᵈʸ? ᴵᵗ’ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ᵃˡˡ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ⁱˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿ…” ˢᵒ ⁿᵒʷ, ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉⁿᵗⁱˢᵗˢ ᵈᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʲᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵃⁱᵗ‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵖᵃᶜᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵒʳᵗʰ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ˢᵃᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵉᵖᵗⁱᵒⁿⁱˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ‧ “ᴴᵉʸ ˢʷᵉᵉᵗⁿᵉˢˢ, ʷᵉ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉᵒⁿˢ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ‧‧” ˢʰᵉ ˢᵃʸˢ, ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵈˢ‧ “ᵂᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ˢⁱᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵐʸ ˡᵃᵖ?” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ˢᵃʸˢ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵉⁱᵛᵉᵈ ⁿᵒᵗᵉˢ ᵒⁿ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵉʳ ˢᵒⁿ‧ “ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ?” ᴺᵒʷ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ!” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ‧ “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ?” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵉˣᵃᶜᵗˡʸ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ, ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧ “ᵂᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ᵇᵘʳᵍᵉʳ?” “ᵁʰ?” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʰᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈˢ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧” ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ⁿᵃᵖ?” “ʸᵉ…” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˡᵉᵃⁿˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ʷᵒᵏᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ⁿᵃᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ‧ “ᴬᵘ…” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉˢ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ, ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᵐᵘˢᵗ’ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ˢᶜᵃʳᵉᵈ‧ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʰᵘⁿᵍʳʸ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ˢᵒᶠᵗ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ… “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵇᵃᵇʸ, ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ?” ᴴⁱˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ˢᵒⁿ ⁿᵒʷ ˢⁱᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ “ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ’ᵛᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ?” “ᵂᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱᶜᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵃᵐ ⁱᶠ…” “ʸᵉˢ, ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ!” ᔆᵃʸˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ, ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒᵐᵉ‧ “ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ ᵐᵘᵐ!” ᔆʰᵉ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱᶜᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵃᵐ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ, ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧ “ᵂʰᵒ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ ˢⁿᵒʳᵉᵈ…” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ’ˢ ᵐᵘᵐ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉʳ ˢᵒⁿ ˢʰʳᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ‧ “ᵂᵉˡˡ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ ⁱᶜᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵃᵐ ⁿᵒʷ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ!” ᔆʰᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰᵉᵈ ᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ, ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢⁱᵍʰˢ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵃᵈ‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ʳᵉᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ‧ “ᴴⁱ‧‧” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˢᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵃ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ʰᵒʷ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ?” “ᴬ ˡⁱˡ‧‧” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵃᵗ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᔆᵒʳʳʸ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ˢˡᵉᵖᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵒⁿᵍ; ᵗᵘʳⁿˢ ᵒᵘᵗ, ⁱᵗ ᵗᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘ, ʷᵒʳʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧‧” “ᴵ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ!” ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵍⁱᵍᵍˡᵉ‧ “ᴬᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᵒⁿ ᵖⁱˡˡᵒʷ‧‧” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵃ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵏ, ᴵ’ᵛᵉ ᵃ ⁿᵘᵐᵇ ʲᵃʷ!” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ʳᵒᵗᵃᵗᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵖⁱˡˡᵒʷ‧ “ᴬⁿ ᵉˣᶜᵘˢᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ, ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉʸ ʸᵒᵘ ˢⁿᵒʳᵉᵈ! ᴺᵒᵗ ˡᵒᵘᵈ, ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵃᵘᵈⁱᵇˡᵉ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ!” “ᴼʰ, ʰᵒʷ ᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ, ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧‧” ᔆᵒ ⁿᵒʷ, ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵃᵖᵖⁱˡʸ‧ 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 𝟻𝟶𝟶

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ᴾᵃʸ ᵀʰᵉ ᴮⁱˡˡ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴮⁱˡˡʸ ʷᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ʰᵒⁿᶜʰᵒ ʳⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵉᵃᵈᵉʳ ʷʰᵒ ᵗᵃᵘⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴶᵃʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃˢ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ᶜʰⁱˡᵈʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵐᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᴮⁱᵏⁱⁿⁱ ᴮᵒᵗᵗᵒᵐ! "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵉⁿᵉᵐⁱᵉˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧‧‧" ᴮⁱˡˡʸ ˢᵃʷ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢᵐⁱʳᵏ‧ "ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᴮᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ? ᵀʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ? ᴵ ˢᵉᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ᵖᵒᵒʳ ᵒˡᵈ ʳᵃᵍ ᵇᵒʸ'ˢ ʳⁱᶜʰ‧ ᴸᵒᵒᵏ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵃ ⁿᵉʳᵈ ᵍᵒᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ!" ᴮⁱˡˡʸ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᵃˢ ˢᵖᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ᵇᵒᵘⁿᶜᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵖʳʸ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ⸴ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃᵛᵉᵈ‧ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ˡⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵏⁱˢˢᵉˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃ ˢᵃᵈ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉᵈ ˢᵖᵒᵗ ᵃˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ‧ "ᴬʰ⸴ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵖᵉᵗˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʳᵃˢʰ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ᵒⁿ ᵐʸ ᶜᵃˢᵉ‧" ᴴᵉ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵃʳᵇᵃᵍᵉ ᵇᵃᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰʳᵉʷ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵘᵐᵖˢᵗᵉʳ‧ ᴮⁱˡˡʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴾᵉᵃ ᵇʳᵃⁱⁿ! ʸᵒᵘ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈ'ᵛᵉ ᵉᵃᵗᵉⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵛᵉᵍᵍⁱᵉˢ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʷ ᴮⁱˡˡʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴮⁱˡˡʸ ʳᵃⁿ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵃˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵒⁿ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ‧ ᴬˢ ʰᵉ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰ⸴ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‽" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʰⁱˢ ʷᵒʳᵏ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ‧ "ᴮⁱˡˡʸ'ˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ʷᵉᵃᵏˡʸ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ!" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧ "ᴵ ᵖʳᵒᵐⁱˢᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ ˢᶜʰᵉᵐᵉ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ˡⁱᶠᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʸᵉᵃʳˢ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵃʳʳⁱᵃᵍᵉ ᴵ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒ ᵇᵃᵈˡʸ ᵇᵉᵃᵗᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ᵇᵘˡˡʸ ʷʰᵒ ᵗᵃᵘⁿᵗᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵒᵗʰ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵃʸ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ᵖᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡʳʸ ᵃˢⁱᵈᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ⁿᵒʷ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵃˢ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉʷˢ‧ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ˢᵃᵗ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ⸴ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ᵗᵒ ˢᵒʳᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵉᵃᵏ ᵗᵒ ˢⁱᵗ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵘᵖ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵍⁿⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷᵉ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵃᵗ ⁱᵗ ᶠⁱᵍʰᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵉᵃʳˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴮⁱˡˡʸ'ˢ ⁿᵒ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵐⁱⁿᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ'ˢ ʷᵒʳˢᵉ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵐʸ ᵉʸᵉˢ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵐᵒⁿ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ⸴ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡ ᵇᵒˢˢ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵃ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵘʳˢ‧ ᴼⁿˡʸ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃˡˡ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰⁱᵐ! ᔆᵒ ʰᵒʷ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴮⁱˡˡʸ‧ "ᵀᵉˡˡ ᵗʰᵉᵐ!" "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒˡˡᵉᵍᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵃ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ᵃˢ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ᴵ ᵇᵘˡˡʸ ʸᵒᵘ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵇᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ‧ ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ᴵ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ᴵ ᵃᵖᵒˡᵒᵍⁱˢᵉ‧ ᴵ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵈⁱᵈ ʷᵉˡˡ ⁱⁿ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ⁱᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘ‧ ᴵ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵇᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁿʸ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵐᵒᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧"

Fandom: SpongeBob SquarePants (Cartoon) Characters: Sheldon J. Plankton, Eugene Krabs, spot plankton, Karen (SpongeBob) Relationships: Eugene Krabs/Sheldon J. Plankton, krabs/plankton, plabs And Then You Came Back https://archiveofourown.org/works/12965262 puffythepig Language:English Stats:Published:2017-12-09 Words:1,294

ᵀⁱᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ pt. 2 ⁽ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵛⁱᵒˡᵉⁿᵗ, ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ʰᵉ ᵏᵉᵖᵗ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿᵃˡˡʸ⸴ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ‧ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ᵃᵗᵗᵃᶜᵏ⸴ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃᵛᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ᵇʸ ˢᵃᶜʳⁱᶠⁱᶜⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ‧‧‧ "ᴵ ˢᵉᵉ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵛᵉ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃᵗ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢⁱᵈᵉ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵒᵇ‧ "ᴵ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵇᵉ ᵐᵃᵈ ⁱᶠ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵃⁿᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵖˡᵃⁿ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘʳˢ; ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵉˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ! ᴵᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳ ᵐᵉ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵃ ˢⁱᵍⁿ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢˡⁱᵍʰᵗᵉˢᵗ‧ "ᴵ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱⁿˢᵘˡᵗᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ! ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᵐⁱˢˢᵉˢ ʸᵒᵘ; ʷᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵈᵒ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉʰᵒʷ ᶜʰᵃⁿᵍᵉˢ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵖˡᵃⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒᵐⁱⁿᵃᵗᵉ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ⁱⁿ ᶜʳⁱᵗⁱᶜᵃˡ ᶜᵒⁿᵈⁱᵗⁱᵒⁿ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃʸ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ ʰᵒʷᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵉᵐᵖᵗʸ ʰᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ; ʰᵉ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃ ˢᵗᵘᶠᶠᵉᵈ ᵗᵒʸ ᵗᵉᵈᵈʸ ᵇᵉᵃʳ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶜʰⁱˡᵈʰᵒᵒᵈ⸴ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵉˢˢⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵃʳ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵉˢˢⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵃʳ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵖʳᵉᵗᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖʸ ᵒⁿ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ‧ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵉˢˢⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵃʳ ʷᵃˢ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ⁱᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘᵗʰˢ‧ ᴬˡᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵃ ʳᵉᵍᵘˡᵃʳ ᵖˡᵘˢʰⁱᵉ⸴ ⁱᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵛᵃˡᵘᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵒⁿˡʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵒᵘʳˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴷⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗⁱᵉⁿᵗ⸴ ᴵ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴵᶠ ˢᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵘʳʳʸ‧" ᴵˢ ʰᵉ‧‧‧" "ᔆⁱʳ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵉ; ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" to be cont. Pt. 3

ᵀⁱᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ pt. 3 ⁽ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵛⁱᵒˡᵉⁿᵗ, ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵂʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵘˢʰᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃˡᵗʰ ᶜᵉⁿᵗʳᵉ⸴ ˢᶜᵃʳᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ‧ "ᴵ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˡⁱᵐᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵉˢˢ ᵃ ᵇᵉᵃʳ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʷᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵈᵒ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᵃ ˡᵃˢᵗ ʳᵉˢᵒʳᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˢᵘʳᵛⁱᵛᵉ ʷᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ʳⁱˢᵏ; ⁱᵗ'ˡˡ ᵉⁱᵗʰᵉʳ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ᵒʳ ⁱᵗ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉⁿᵈ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ‧‧‧" "ᔆᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ⁱᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏˢ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ ⁱᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ ⁱʳʳᵉᵛᵉʳˢⁱᵇˡʸ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗⁱᵉⁿᵗ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ⁱᶠ ⁱᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏˢ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ⁿᵒ ᵍᵘᵃʳᵃⁿᵗᵉᵉ ʰᵉ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇˡⁱⁿᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᴬᵐⁿᵉˢⁱᵃ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵒᶜᶜᵘʳ⸴ ᵃˢˢᵘᵐⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵛⁱᵛᵉˢ; ᵗᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵉˣᵗᵉⁿᵗ⸴ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵗᵉˡˡ‧ ᴴⁱˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳʸ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵉᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ'ˡˡ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷⁱᵗʰⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉⁿᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏ‧ ᵂʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ ⁱˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜⁱⁿᵉ ʷⁱˡˡ ˢᵗᵃᵇⁱˡⁱˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇʳᵃⁱⁿ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵇʳᵃıⁿ ᵈᵉ́ᵃ́ᵈ ⁱᶠ ʷᵉ ʷᵃⁱᵗ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ˡᵒⁿᵍᵉʳ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵖᵉᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʰᵒˡᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿˢ⸴ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᴵ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ‧" ᴬᵗ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ⸴ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵃˢ ᵈᵃʳᵏ⸴ ᵐᵃᶜʰⁱⁿᵉʳʸ ᵇᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒⁱˢᵉˢ ᵉᶜʰᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵒᵘᵈᵉʳ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃᶻᵉᵈ ᵖᵃᵗⁱᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐⁱⁿᵍˡʸ⸴ ʸᵉᵗ ʰᵉ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵛⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʷᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵉˢˢ ᵃ ᵇᵉᵃʳ⸴ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵃᵈʲᵘˢᵗᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴⁱ; ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃˡᵗʰ ᶜᵉⁿᵗʳᵉ‧‧‧" ᔆᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ ˢᵘʳᵛⁱᵛᵉˢ⸴ ʰᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶠʸ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗᵉⁿˢ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵘᵖ⸴ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗᵒʳ; ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵘʳᵉ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗᵒʳ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ‧ "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˡⁱᵛᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱˢ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ‧ ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ᶜᵃⁿ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃʳᵉᵃ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ‧‧‧ to be cont. Pt. 4

ᵀⁱᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ pt. 5 ⁽ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵛⁱᵒˡᵉⁿᵗ, ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ "♪⁻⁻ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʷʰʸ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵐʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏⁱᵉ⁻ʷᵒᵒᵏⁱᵉ ᵗᵉᵈᵈʸ ᵇᵉᵃʳ!♪" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢⁱⁿᵍˢ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒⁿᵍ ʰᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃˢ ᶜʰⁱˡᵈʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ˡⁱᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵇᵉᵃʳ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᴬⁿʸ ⁱᵐᵖʳᵒᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ?" "ᵂᵉˡˡ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈ ᵃˢᵏ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵈⁱˢᵗᵘʳᵇ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉˢᵗ; ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏᵉⁿᵈ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ ⁱⁿᶠᵒʳᵐᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ/ᵈʳᵒᵒˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᵇᵉᵃʳ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʷᵉˡˡ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏᵉⁿᵈ‧ "ᶜᵃⁿ ʷᵉ ˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵒⁿᵍ⸴ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ?" "♪⁻⁻ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʷʰʸ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵐʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏⁱᵉ⁻ʷᵒᵒᵏⁱᵉ ᵗᵉᵈᵈʸ ᵇᵉᵃʳ!♪" "ᴰᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗⁱᵈʸ ᵘᵖ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃᵗᶜʰ ᵘᵖ!" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰᵉᵈ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵈᵒ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᶜⁱᵉⁿᶜᵉ?" "ᴺᵃ⸴ ˢᵒʳʳʸ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵘʳᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ? ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᴵ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃˢᵗ ʷᵉᵉᵏ ʰᵃˢ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵐʸ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗˢ ᶜˡᵒᵘᵈ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ ᵃˢ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵉˡˡ!" "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵒⁿ⸴ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃˡᵗʰ ᶜᵉⁿᵗʳᵉ?" "ᴬ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ᵃᵗᵗᵃᶜᵏ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃˢ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ˢᵃᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ "ᵂᵃˢ ⁱᵗ ᵃᵗ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ?" "ʸᵉˢ‧‧‧" ᔆᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳʸ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍʳᵃᵈᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᶠᵃᵈᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳʸ‧ "ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ᵐʸ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᵖᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ʰᵉᵉᵈ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ʷᵉᵉᵏ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵒᶠᶠⁱᶜᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ ᶜᵒᵘⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵒⁿᵉʸ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᵐᵒᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ ᴴᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵃˢᵗ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏᵉⁿᵈ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ᵐᵉ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ᴾᵃᵗᵗʸ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᶜʳᵘˢʰ ᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢʷⁱᵖᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵗʰⁱˢ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˡᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ⁱᵗ?" "ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ⸴ ᴵ'ᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵇᵒᵘⁿᶜⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ʳᵘⁱⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵉˡᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ; ⁱᶠ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿᵗⁱᵐⁱᵈᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱˢ ᵐʸ ʲᵒᵇ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ!" "ᴵ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃʷᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ!" "ᴵ'ᵈ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵉˢˢ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ end finale

ᵀⁱᵐᵉ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ pt. 4 ⁽ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵛⁱᵒˡᵉⁿᵗ, ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ‧" ᵀʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ "ᔆᵒ⸴ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵈᵃʸ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵖʳᵒᵖᵉʳˡʸ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" "ᶠᵒʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ?" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴵᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉˣᵃᶜᵗˡʸ ˢᵘʳᵉ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵉⁿᶜᵒᵘⁿᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃ ʳʰⁱⁿᵒᶜᵉʳᵒˢ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᶻᵒᵒ‧‧‧" ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ˡᵒᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵇˡᵃⁿᵏ ˡᵒᵒᵏ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ ⁿᵉʳᵛᵒᵘˢˡʸ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵘⁿᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗᵃᵇˡᵉ‧ "ᴵ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵗᵘᶠᶠᵉᵈ ᵇᵉᵃʳ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵉˢᵗᵘʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᴸⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ ᴵ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ ʷʰᵃᵗ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒⁿⁿᵉᶜᵗ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴿᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʷᵉ ᵖˡᵃʸᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵉᵈᵈʸ? '♪⁻⁻ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʷʰʸ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵐʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏⁱᵉ⁻ ʷᵒᵒᵏⁱᵉ ᵗᵉᵈᵈʸ ᵇᵉᵃʳ!♪' ᵂᵉ'ᵈ ˢⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ʷᵉ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᴵ'ᵐ ʰᵘⁿᵍʳʸ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ⸴ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡⁱⁿⁱᶜⁱᵃⁿ‧ ᴾᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ⁱᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒ ᵖʳⁱᵒʳ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ⸴ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿ? ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵈᵉᶜⁱᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ⸴ ˡᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ⁱⁿ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒ‧ "ᵀʰᵉ ᵈᵒᶜ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ⁱᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳʸ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˡˡ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵉᵉᵏᵉⁿᵈ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃʳ‧ "ᔆᵒʳʳʸ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵖᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵖᵒᵗ ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳᵈᵃʸ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵉᵈᵈʸ!" ᴴᵉ ʳᵉᵖˡⁱᵉᵈ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵈᵉᶠⁱⁿⁱᵗᵉˡʸ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃᶜᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ʰᵃʳᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʸᵉᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʷⁱˡˡ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ‧ "ᴵ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢⁱᵍʰᵉᵈ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵒᵖᵉˢ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵍʰ‧ "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ʷᵒʳᵏ; ᵇʸᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ‧ to be cont. Pt. 5

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Tʜᴇ Aᴄᴄɪᴅᴇɴᴛ (SᴘᴏɴɢᴇBᴏʙ ғᴀɴғɪᴄ) Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs ᴍᴏʟᴅᴇᴅ ʜɪs sʜᴇʟʟ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪᴛ ɢʀᴇᴡ ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴛᴏ ɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ. Hᴏᴡᴇᴠᴇʀ, ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏʟᴅᴇᴅ sʜᴇʟʟ ʀᴇᴍᴀɪɴs ʜᴀᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ᴅɪsᴄᴏᴠᴇʀᴇᴅ ғᴀᴄᴇ ᴅᴏᴡɴ ʙʏ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ɢᴏᴏ ʟᴀɢᴏᴏɴ ʙᴇᴀᴄʜ. "Kʀᴀʙs?" Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ sᴀᴡ ʜɪs ʟɪғᴇʟᴇss sʜᴇʟʟ ᴏᴜᴛʟɪɴᴇ ʙᴇ sᴡᴇᴘᴛ ᴀᴡᴀʏ ʙʏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏᴄᴇᴀɴ ᴄᴜʀʀᴇɴᴛ, sʟᴀᴍᴍɪɴɢ ᴀɢᴀɪɴsᴛ ᴀ ʀᴏᴄᴋ ɪɴ ᴛᴏ ᴘɪᴇᴄᴇs. Oғ ᴄᴏᴜʀsᴇ, Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ's ɴᴏ ᴋɴᴏᴡʟᴇᴅɢᴇ ᴏғ ᴍᴏʟᴅɪɴɢ. "Eᴜɢᴇɴᴇ! Iғ I'ᴅ ᴏɴʟʏ ᴄᴏᴍᴇ sᴏᴏɴᴇʀ, ʙᴇғᴏʀᴇ..." ʏᴏᴜ sᴇᴇ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴜsᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅs ᴡɪᴛʜ ʜɪᴍ ᴀs ᴀ sᴄʜᴏᴏʟʙᴏʏ ʙᴜᴛ ᴊᴇᴀʟᴏᴜs ᴇɴᴠʏ ʀᴜɪɴᴇᴅ ɪᴛ. Nᴏʀᴍᴀʟʟʏ, ᴀ sᴇᴛʙᴀᴄᴋ ғᴏʀ Kʀᴀʙs ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ, ɴᴏᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴ ᴜsɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ʜɪs ᴀᴅᴠᴀɴᴛᴀɢᴇ. "I ᴅᴏɴ'ᴛ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴅᴏ ᴀs ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ɢᴏɴᴇ?" Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴋɴᴇʟᴛ ᴅᴏᴡɴ ɪɴ ᴛᴇᴀʀs. "I ᴄᴀᴍᴇ ʜᴇʀᴇ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ sᴏᴍᴇ sᴘᴀᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ᴜᴘ ᴀ sᴄʜᴇᴍᴇ..." Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs, ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ sɪɢʜᴛ, sᴀᴡ ʙɪᴛs ᴏғ ʜɪs sʜᴇʟʟ ᴡɪᴛʜ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ɪɴ ᴇᴀʀsʜᴏᴛ. "I ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴡᴇ'ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ᴀᴛ ɪᴛ... I ᴊᴜsᴛ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴡɪsʜᴇᴅ sᴜᴄʜ ᴀ ᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀᴘᴘᴇɴ!" Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs ʟᴇғᴛ ᴄᴏɴғʟɪᴄᴛᴇᴅ. Rᴇᴛᴜʀɴɪɴɢ, Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴛʀɪᴇᴅ ɴᴏᴛ ᴛᴏ ɢʟᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴇsᴛᴀᴜʀᴀɴᴛ ᴀᴄʀᴏss ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ. "Sʜᴇʟᴅᴏɴ, ʏᴏᴜ'ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ɢᴏɴᴇ ғᴏʀ sᴜᴄʜ ᴀ ʟᴏɴɢ ᴛɪᴍᴇ..." Kᴀʀᴇɴ ɴᴏᴛɪᴄᴇᴅ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ʟᴏᴏᴋɪɴɢ sᴀᴅ. "ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ ᴛᴀʟᴋ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ ᴏɴᴄᴇ ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ʀᴇᴀᴅʏ..." "I ɴᴇᴇᴅ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴘʀᴏᴄᴇss sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴘᴇʀʜᴀᴘs ʟᴀᴛᴇʀ." Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴡᴀs ᴜᴘ ᴀʟʟ ɴɪɢʜᴛ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴋɴᴏᴡʟᴇᴅɢᴇ ᴏғ ʙᴇɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏɴʟʏ ᴏɴᴇ ᴛᴏ sᴇᴇ ᴛʜᴇ sʜᴇʟʟ ᴄʀᴀsʜ ᴀɢᴀɪɴsᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴏᴜʟᴅᴇʀ. "I'ᴍ ɢᴏɴɴᴀ ɢᴏ ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇᴀᴄʜ..." Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴛᴏʟᴅ Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴇxᴛ ᴍᴏʀɴɪɴɢ. "Pᴇʀʜᴀᴘs sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴏᴄᴄᴜʀʀᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ Kʀᴀʙs..." Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴡᴇɴᴛ ᴛᴏ Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs ᴛᴏ sᴇᴇ ɪғ ʜᴇ'ᴅ ᴋɴᴏᴡ... "I ᴍᴏʟᴅ ᴍᴇ sʜᴇʟʟ..." Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs ᴇxᴘʟᴀɪɴᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴀs ʜᴇ ᴘʀᴏᴄᴇᴇᴅᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛᴇʟʟ ʜᴇʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʜᴇ ᴡɪᴛɴᴇssᴇᴅ. "Hᴇ ᴡᴇɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇᴀᴄʜ..." "I'ʟʟ ɢᴏ sᴇᴇ ᴛᴏ ʜɪᴍ." Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs sᴀɪᴅ. Kʀᴀʙs ᴀʀʀɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ғɪɴᴅ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴘᴜᴛᴛɪɴɢ ғʟᴏᴡᴇʀs ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏᴄᴇᴀɴ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʀᴀsʜ ᴡᴇɴᴛ ᴅᴏᴡɴ. Lᴀʀʀʏ ᴛʜᴇ Lᴏʙsᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇɴ ᴀʀʀɪᴠᴇᴅ ʜɪs sʜɪғᴛ ᴀs ᴀ ʟɪғᴇɢᴜᴀʀᴅ. Wʜɪʟsᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴡᴏ ɢʀᴇᴇᴛᴇᴅ ᴇᴀᴄʜ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴡᴀs ʜɪᴛ ʙʏ ᴀ ᴡᴀᴠᴇ, ʀᴇɴᴅᴇʀᴇᴅ ʜᴇʟᴘʟᴇss. Kʀᴀʙs sᴀᴡ ʜɪᴍ ɢᴇᴛ ᴛʀᴀᴘᴘᴇᴅ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴜʀʀᴇɴᴛ. "Sʜᴇʟᴅᴏɴ..." Aғᴛᴇʀ sᴇᴇɪɴɢ Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs ᴘᴏɪɴᴛ ᴏᴜᴛ Lᴀʀʀʏ ᴅɪᴠᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀᴛᴇʀ sᴀᴠɪɴɢ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ғʀᴏᴍ ʙᴇɪɴɢ ʟᴏsᴛ ᴀᴛ sᴇᴀ. Hᴏᴡᴇᴠᴇʀ, Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴅɪᴅɴ'ᴛ ᴡᴀᴋᴇ ᴜᴘ ғᴏʀ Lᴀʀʀʏ. "I'ᴠᴇ ᴅᴏɴᴇ ᴀʟʟ I ᴄᴀɴ..." Lᴀʀʀʏ sᴀɪᴅ. "I'ʟʟ ᴄᴀʟʟ Sᴀɴᴅʏ!" Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs sᴀɪᴅ ᴋɴᴏᴡɪɴɢ sʜᴇ ʜᴀᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴋɴᴏᴡʟᴇᴅɢᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴘᴏssɪʙʟʏ ʜᴇʟᴘ. Sᴀɴᴅʏ ᴄᴀᴍᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴀʟʟᴇᴅ Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴏɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ. Kᴀʀᴇɴ sᴄᴀɴɴᴇᴅ ʜɪᴍ ғᴏʀ ᴀɴʏ ɪɴᴛᴇʀɴᴀʟ ᴅᴀᴍᴀɢᴇ ᴀs sᴀɴᴅʏ ᴛʀɪᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴠᴇ ʜɪᴍ. "I ғᴏᴜɴᴅ ʜɪs ʟᴇɢ ʜɪᴛ ᴀɢᴀɪɴsᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴄᴋ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴇɴᴏᴜɢʜ ғᴏʀᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ғʀᴀᴄᴛᴜʀᴇ... Gᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ʙᴀɴᴅᴀɢᴇs, ᴛʜᴇʏ ʟᴇᴛ Kʀᴀʙs ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴀ ᴍᴏᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴀʟᴏɴᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʜɪᴍ ᴊᴜsᴛ ɪɴ ᴄᴀsᴇ... Aғᴛᴇʀ ʙᴇɪɴɢ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴄᴏʟᴅ, Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴡᴀs sʜᴏᴡɪɴɢ sɪɢɴs ᴏғ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴠᴇʀʏ. ғᴇᴇʟɪɴɢ ʙᴏᴍʙᴀʀᴅᴇᴅ, ʜᴇ ᴛʀɪᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴏᴠᴇ ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴘᴀɪɴ ᴏᴠᴇʀᴡʜᴇʟᴍᴇᴅ ʜɪᴍ. "Eʜ... " "Rᴇᴀᴅʏ ᴛᴏ ɢᴏ ʜᴏᴍᴇ?" Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴛᴏᴏᴋ ʜɪᴍ ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʜᴜᴍ ʙᴜᴄᴋᴇᴛ. Kᴀʀᴇɴ ʜᴇʟᴘᴇᴅ sᴛɪʟʟ ᴅɪsᴄᴏɴᴄᴇʀᴛᴇᴅ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ɪɴ ᴛᴏ sᴇᴀᴛ. "Kʀᴀʙs ᴍᴏʟᴅᴇᴅ ʜɪs sʜᴇʟʟ; ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴍᴜsᴛ ʜᴀᴠᴇ sᴇᴇɴ ᴡᴀs ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʜᴇ sʜᴇᴅ..." Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴇxᴘʟᴀɪɴᴇᴅ, ʟᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ Sᴘᴏᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴇᴛ ᴀᴍᴏᴇʙᴀ ᴘᴜᴘᴘʏ sᴛᴀʏ ʙʏ ʜɪᴍ. "Is ʜᴇ ғᴇᴇʟɪɴɢ ᴀɴʏ ʙᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ?" Asᴋᴇᴅ Kʀᴀʙs ᴠɪsɪᴛɪɴɢ ʜɪᴍ ᴛʜᴇ sᴀᴍᴇ ᴀғᴛᴇʀɴᴏᴏɴ. Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴀɴᴅ Sᴘᴏᴛ ᴡᴇʀᴇ sᴛɪʟʟ ʀɪɢʜᴛ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴡᴇʀᴇ, ɢᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ʀᴇsᴛ. "Sᴏᴜɴᴅs ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴍᴜsᴛ'ᴠᴇ ᴅᴏᴢᴇᴅ..." Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴏʙsᴇʀᴠᴇᴅ ʜᴇᴀʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏ̨ᴜɪᴇᴛ sᴛᴇʀᴛᴏʀs ᴏғ ʜᴇʀ ʜᴜsʙᴀɴᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀᴍᴏᴇʙᴀ ᴘᴜᴘᴘʏ. Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs sᴀᴡ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ's ᴀʀᴍ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ Sᴘᴏᴛ, ʟᴇɢ ᴇʟᴇᴠᴀᴛᴇᴅ. "I'ᴠᴇ ʙʀᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ᴀ ɢɪғᴛ ғᴏʀ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ..." Kᴀʀᴇɴ ᴡᴀs ʜᴀɴᴅᴇᴅ ᴀ Kʀᴀʙʙʏ Pᴀᴛᴛʏ. "Iᴛ's ғᴏʀ Pʟᴀɴᴋᴛᴏɴ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏ, sᴀᴠᴇ ɪᴛ ғᴏʀ ʜɪᴍ..." Mʀ. Kʀᴀʙs ᴡᴀs ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ᴛᴏ ʟᴇᴀᴠᴇ ʜɪᴍ ᴡɪᴛʜ ɪᴛ.

ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰʸ ⁿᵉⁱᵍʰᵇᵒᵘʳ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵃʸˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ "ᴵᵗ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᶠᵘⁿ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ʰᵒᵘˢᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ⁱᵐᵖʳᵒᵛᵉᵐᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ‧ ᔆᵒ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳᵉ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᔆᑫᵘⁱᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵗᵃʸ ⁽ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵈⁱˢˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵒⁱˢᵉ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳᵏ⁾ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵗᵒ ⁱⁿᶜˡᵘᵈᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴳᵃʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁿᵃⁱˡ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᶜʳᵃˢʰᵉˢ ʰᵉʳᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ˡⁱᵏᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᵖˡᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ᵐʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ'ˢ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ‧ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ᵃⁿ ᵉʸᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉᵐ⸴ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵉᵃˢⁱˡʸ ᵃⁿᵍʳʸ ʷʰᵉⁿ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵃⁿⁿᵒʸˢ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ᵃᵇˡᵉⁱˢᵗ ᵘⁿⁱⁿᵗᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿᵃˡˡʸ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʷᵉˡˡ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵒᵈᵈˢ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵒʳᵏˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ⸴ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷʳᵒⁿᵍ ʷᵃʸ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᵒᵖᵖᵒˢⁱᵗᵉˢ ᵃᵗᵗʳᵃᶜᵗ⸴ ᵐᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢʰⁱᵖ ᵈʸⁿᵃᵐⁱᶜ ᵈᵘᵒ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵃˡˡ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵇᵉ ⁿⁱᶜᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᴵ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃ ᵖᵃᶜⁱᶠⁱˢᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵍᵉʳ ⁱˢˢᵘᵉˢ ᔆᵒ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵒᵐⁱˢᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗ ᶻᵒⁿᵉˢ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵃˡˢᵒ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ ʰᵉ ʳᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᵒᵖᵉⁿˢ ᵘᵖ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ʷʰⁱˡᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵒʳ ʰⁱˢ ᵍʳᵃⁿᵈᵐᵃ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ʰᵃˢ ˡⁱᵐⁱᵗˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵏⁿᵒʷˢ ⁱᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵖˡᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵉᵗˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵘᵇᵇᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵒᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ‧ "ᵂᵃᵗᶜʰ ᵒᵘᵗ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵒᵒˡ!" ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵒᶜᵏ ᵒᶠᶠ‧ ᴵᵗˢ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ʷᵃʸ ᵒᶠ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵉˢ ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ‧ ᵂᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ⁱᶜᵉ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᵖᵉᵗˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ⁱⁿˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒᵗ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵏⁱˢˢᵉˢ‧ "ᴱᵃˢʸ⸴ ᵇᵒʸ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵗᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ʰᵒˡᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵒᶠ ᵃ ʰᵘᵍᵍᵉʳ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢⁿᵘᵍᵍˡᵉˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒᵗ; ʰᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ⸴ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ˡᵉⁿᵍᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵘᵍᵍᵉˢᵗ ᵃ ᵇᵒᵃʳᵈ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵐʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵉᵗⁱᵗⁱᵛᵉ ⁿᵃᵗᵘʳᵉ‧ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵃⁿᵃˡʸˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜⁱᵖᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ʸᵒᵘ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃ ᵗᵃˢᵗᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵉˡⁱᶜⁱᵒᵘˢⁿᵉˢˢ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴮᵘᵗ ⁱᶠ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧" "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰᵉʳᵉ; ᵇᵉˢⁱᵈᵉˢ⸴ ʷᵉ'ʳᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ʳᵉᵛᵉᵃˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵐᵘˡᵃ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ ᵇᵃʳⁿᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ˡⁱᶠᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ˢᵖˡⁱᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ⸴ ᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵉᵛᵉʳʸ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᵐᵒʳˢᵉˡ! "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵏⁱᵈ‧‧‧" ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵒʷ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉʳᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵍʳᵃᵗⁱᵗᵘᵈᵉ⸴ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʳᵃʳᵉˡʸ ˢᵒ ᵃᶠᶠᵉᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿᵃᵗᵉˡʸ ˢʰᵒʷˢ ᵃᵖᵖʳᵉᶜⁱᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒʸˢ ᵖᵘˡˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ ⁱⁿ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵉˡᵉᵛⁱˢⁱᵒⁿ‧ ᔆᵉᵃᵗᵉᵈ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵇʸ ˢⁱᵈᵉ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰ‧ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴳᵃʳʸ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉˢᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ "ᴷⁱᵈ⸴ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇᵒˢˢ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʰⁱᵐ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ˢᵗᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵒʳʳʸ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ˡᵉᵃⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉʳ‧ "ᵂᵃⁱᵗ⸴ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ! ᵂʰᵃᵗ‧‧‧" "ᵀᵉˡˡ ʰⁱᵐ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵃᵗ ᵃⁿ ⁱⁿⁿ‽" ᴵ ˢᵘᵍᵍᵉˢᵗᵉᵈ‧ ᵂᵉ ᵃˡˡ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰⁱˢ ˡᵒʸᵃˡ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉʳ ˢᵗᵃʸᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ⸴ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ⁱᶠ ⁱⁿ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᶜⁱʳᶜᵘᵐˢᵗᵃⁿᶜᵉˢ‧ ᴵᵗ'ᵈ ᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ʳⁱˢᵏ ᵒᶠ ᵗʳᵒᵘᵇˡᵉ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ⁱᵗˢ ʷᵒʳᵗʰ! ᴼⁿˡʸ ⁱᵐᵃᵍⁱⁿᵉ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᶜⁱᵛⁱˡ ᵗᵒ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˢʰᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵃ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧‧‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉˢ ʰᵒʷ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ⸴ ⁿᵒ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵃᵖᵖʳᵒᵛᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵉᵃᶜᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵒᵈᵈˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃⁿᵈˢ ʰⁱˢ ˡᵒʸᵃˡᵗʸ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ⸴ ᵃˡᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵃᵍʳᵉᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴴⁱˢ ᵍᵒᵃˡ ⁱⁿ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ⁱˢ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ ʰᵒʷ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵇᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵒⁿ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢⁱᵈᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᶜᵃᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵒᵘˢᵉ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ‧ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳᵒᵍʳᵃᵐᵐᵉ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵉˡᵉᵛⁱˢⁱᵒⁿ‧ ᴵ ʷʰⁱˢᵖᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵗᵗᵉⁿᵈ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧‧‧" "ᴵᵐ ᵗᵒ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉ ᵃᵗ ⁸ ᵒ'ᶜˡᵒᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵗⁱʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘⁿᵃʷᵃʳᵉˢ‧ ᴼⁿˡʸ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉⁿᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳᵒᵍʳᵃᵐᵐᵉ‧ ᴼʰ ʰᵒʷ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈⁿ'ᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ⁱᵗ; ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵘᶜᵏˡᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵘʳⁱᵒᵘˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ˢⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ "ᴴᵒʷ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒᵉ?" ᴵ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ‧ "ᵂᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ‧‧‧" "ᴵˡˡ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ᵃ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ᵗᵒᵉ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˡıᵉ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗᵃᵇˡʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵃ̊ʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ⁱˢ ⁱᵗ?" ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʸ⸴ ʳᵒᵘˢⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ "ᴼʰ⸴ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵗ ʷᵒʳᵏ! ᴰᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ˢᵘˢᵖⁱᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ⸴ ⁿᵒʳ ᵇᵉ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵒᵉ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒᵉ?" ᴵ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵒ ʳᵉᵈⁿᵉˢˢ‧ "ᔆᵗⁱˡˡ ᵍᵒ ᵉᵃˢʸ ᵒⁿ ⁱᵗ‧" "ᵂⁱˡˡ ᵈᵒ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ‧ "ᴸᵃˢᵗ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿ ᶠᵒᶜᵘˢˢᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶜʳᵉᵉⁿ ᵇʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵃˡᶠ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʳᵒᵍʳᵃᵐᵐᵉ!" ᴵ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʲᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈ⸴ ʳᵉᵍʳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᴵ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ⁱᵗ; ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗ ᵛᵘˡⁿᵉʳᵃᵇⁱˡⁱᵗʸ‧ ᴬˢ ʷᵃˡᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵉᵗˢ⸴ ᴵ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵐʸ ˢᵘᵖᵉʳᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ᵈᵉᵗᵉᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ᵂʰʸ ʸᵉ ˡⁱᵐᵖⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵇᵒⁱ?" "ᴵ ᵗʳⁱᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ ʰᵉʳᵉ⸴ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᴵ ʳᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ˡᵒᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" ᴺⁱᶜᵉ ˢᵃᵛᵉ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ "ᴶᵉˢᵗ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ˢᵘʳᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳᶠᵉʳᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ; ᵉᵛᵉʳʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ'ˢ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ!" ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ⸴ ʷᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᶜᵘˢᵗᵒᵐᵉʳˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ‧ ᴼⁿˡʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿᵘˢᵘᵃˡ ⁽ⁱᶠ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ⁾ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗʳᵉˢˢᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ˡᵃᶜᵏ ᵒᶠ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ⸴ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵏ‧ "ᴸᵉᵗ'ˢ ˢᵉᵉ; ʰᵉ ˡⁱᵏᵉˢ ʲᵉˡˡʸᶠⁱˢʰ⸴ ᵏᵃʳᵃᵗᵉ⸴ ᵐᵉʳᵐᵃⁱᵈ ᵐᵃⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵃʳⁿᵃᶜˡᵉ ᵇᵒʸ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ᵒᶠᶠ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵉᵛᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍˢ; ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗᵒ ʷᵒʳⁿ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵖˡᵃʸ⸴ ᵃˡᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵃᵖᵖʳᵉᶜⁱᵃᵗᵉ ⁱᵗ!" "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʲᵘᵐᵖᵉᵈ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˡᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ ᵂʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵈᵒⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳᵉ‧‧‧ "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʰᵉʳᵉ⸴ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰⁱᶠᵗ‧ ᵁⁿˡᵉˢˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ʰᵉʳᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ˡᵘⁿᶜʰ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴼʰ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳᵉ? ᴵ ʷᵃˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢᵉ ᵐᵉᵃˡ‧ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗᵃʸⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘ!" ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢʰᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ‧ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵃᶜʳᵒˢˢ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵗʳᵉᵉᵗ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏᵉᵖᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵇʳᵃⁱⁿˢᵗᵒʳᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵈᵒ‧ ᴼⁿᶜᵉ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰⁱᶠᵗ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ⸴ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ʷᵃⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵃˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᶜˡᵉᵃʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ʰᵉʳᵉ‧ "ᴾʰᵉʷ; ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵈᵃʸ ᵒⁿ ᵐʸ ᶠᵉᵉᵗ⸴ ᵃˡˡ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵃᵛᵒⁱᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿᵈᵘᵉ ᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵐʸ ᵗᵒᵉ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃˡˡ ᵈᵃʸ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵗᵘʳⁿ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ‧ "ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵗᵒⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧‧‧" ᴵ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ⸴ ᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵐᵒᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒᶜᶜᵘʳʳᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗᵈᵒᵒʳˢ ⁱⁿ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ⁱⁿᵛᵉˢᵗⁱᵍᵃᵗᵉ⸴ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧ ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵇˡᵃᵇᵇᵉᵈ; ⁱᵗ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵉⁿᵈ ʷᵉˡˡ‧ "ᴾᴸᴬᴺᴷᵀᴼᴺ‽" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᶜʳᵉᵃᵐᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᶠᵘʳʸ⸴ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵘⁿᵇᵉᵏⁿᵒʷⁿˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴹʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵗ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ‧ "ᴳᵉᵗ ˡᵒˢᵗ⸴ ᴾᵃᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗᵃˡᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ!" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ‧ "ᶻⁱᵖ ⁱᵗ⸴ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ; ʰᵉ'ˢ ʳᵉˢᵗⁱⁿᵍ!" "ᴴᵉ ⁱˢ ᵐᵉ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉ; ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ᵒᵛᵉʳ!" "ᴴᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈˢ ᵖᵉᵃᶜᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˡᵒᵘᵈ‧‧‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ⸴ ᴵ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵉᵖ ᵃˢⁱᵈᵉ!" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴵ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴵˡˡ ᶜʳᵘˢʰ ʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵐⁱᵗʰᵉʳᵒᵒⁿˢ ᔆʰᵉˡ‧‧‧" "ᴺᵒ! ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡᵒᶜᵏ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ'ᵐ ˡᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵗᵃʸ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʰᵃᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ˡⁱᵐᵖ ᵃˡˡ ᵈᵃʸ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵈᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ˡⁱᵐᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵒʳᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴱⁱᵗʰᵉʳ ʷᵃʸ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵖᵘⁿⁱˢʰ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᵉ ᶠʳᵃᵗᵉʳⁿⁱᶻᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ˡᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ᶠᴵᴿᴱ ᴴᴵᴹ!" ᵂᵉ ᵃˡˡ ˢⁱˡᵉⁿᵗˡʸ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉᶜʰᵒ ᵒᶠ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ʷⁱᵗʰ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷʰⁱᵐᵖᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᵂᵉ ᵃˡˡ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵒᵒˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵃᵗᵉ‧‧‧ "ᴸⁱˢᵗᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉ⸴ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ; ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ˡᵒᵛᵉˢ ʰⁱˢ ʲᵒᵇ ᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ‧‧‧" ᴵ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳʸ ᵉʸᵉᵈ ⁿᵒʷ‧‧‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᶜᵒʳᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵗᵗˡᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ⸴ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ ᵒⁿ; ᵇᵘᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵏⁱⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵉⁱᵗʰᵉʳ ᵒᶠ ᵘˢ ᵃᵗ ᵒᵘʳ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ! ᴴᵒʷ ᵈᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" "ᔆⁱⁿᶜᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵈᵒ‧‧‧" "ᵂᴱ ᴬᴿᴱ ᶠᴿᴵᴱᴺᴰᔆ⸴ ᴬᴺᴰ ᴴᴱ ᴰᴼᴱᔆᴺ'ᵀ ᴰᴱᔆᴱᴿⱽᴱ ᴱᴵᵀᴴᴱᴿ ᴼᶠ ᵁᔆ!" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵒᵐᵖᵉᵈ⸴ ʰᵃʳᵈ‧ "ᵂʰʸ ᵃʳᵉⁿ'ᵗ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᴿᴬᵀᴴᴱᴿ ᵀᴬᴷᴱ ᵀᴴᴱ ᴮᴸᴬᶜᴷ ᴱʸᴱ ᵀᴴᴬᴺ ᵀᴼ ᴴᴬⱽᴱ ᴹʸ ᶠᴿᴵᴱᴺᴰ ᶠᴵᴿᴱᴰ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱˡˡⁱⁿᵍˡʸ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᴬ ᶠⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ‧ "ᴳᵒ ᵃʰᵉᵃᵈ⸴ ᵉᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧ ᔆᑫᵘᵃˢʰ ᵐᵉ ᵃˢ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧‧‧" ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁿ⸴ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ˢᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵗᵒᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ˢᵗᵘᵇᵇᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ‧ ᴵⁿ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ⸴ ʰᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᵖˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉʳⁱᵗʸ ⁱⁿ ᵍⁱᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉ'ˢ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴺᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᵃⁿʸ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿ ᵃ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ⸴ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ‧

ᶠʳᵉⁿᵉᵐʸ ᴿᵉᵘⁿⁱᵒⁿ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 𝟗𝟑𝟗 "ᴴᵉ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵖˡᵃⁿⁿⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇⁱᵍ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡˢ ᵗᵒ ᵗʳʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵃᵐⁱᶜᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ‧ ᔆᵒ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ⁿᵒʷ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵉᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᵖˡᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰⁱᶠᵗ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ⸴ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ‧ 'ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᵈᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠʳᵉᵉ' "ᴵ'ˡˡ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ⸴ ʰᵃⁿᵍⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ˡᵉᵃⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᶠᶠᵉᵉ ᵗᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢⁱᵗ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵘᶜʰ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧ ᴷⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗᵒ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˡᵉ ʰⁱᵐ⸴ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉʸ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵗᵃˡᵏᵉᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ʰᵉ ʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ ᴺᵒʷ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵈʳᵃᵖᵉᵈ ᶜᵒᵛᵉʳˢ ᵃ ᵇˡᵃⁿᵏᵉᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᵇᵃʳᵉˡʸ ᵗʷⁱᵗᶜʰ ʷʰᵉⁿ ˢʰᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵒᵛᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ⁿᵒᵗᵉ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡˢ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵘⁿˢ ᵘᵖ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢᵉ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ!" "ᵂʰᵃᵗ‧‧" "ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᴾᵉᵃʳˡ'ˢ ᵒⁿ ᵃ ᵈᵃᵗᵉ⸴ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵇᵒʸ!" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ᵇᵃᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ˡʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˡᵘʳᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒˢˢ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᵀᵉˡˡ ᵐᵉ⸴ ʷʰ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠˡⁱⁿᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵗᵒᵘᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈᵉʳ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ˢᵒ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ᵃˢ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᴴᵒⁿᵉʸ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˢᵉˡᶠ ᵘᵖ ⁿᵒʷ⸴ ᵐʸ ˢʷᵉᵉᵗˢ‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ⸴ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ ᶜᵒᵃˣᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴴᵘʰ?" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗ ⁱⁿᵛⁱᵗᵉᵈ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ⁱᵐᵖᵉᵈᵉ ᵒⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵖᵉʳˢᵒⁿᵃˡ ᵖˡᵃⁿˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵃˡˡ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁱˢ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ˢᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ᑫᵘⁱᶜᵏˡʸ‧" ᴮᵒᵗʰ ⁿᵉᵐᵉˢᵉˢ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉˣᵃᶜᵗ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ‽" "ᴮᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ˡᵘʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵗᵃˡᵏ‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢᵃᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵗᵒᵍᵉᵗʰᵉʳ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᵃᵗᵒʳ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃ ʳᵉᶠ ᶠᵒʳ ᵇᵒᵗʰ‧ ᴱᵃᶜʰ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍˢ ⁱⁿ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵘʳⁿˢ ᵗᵒ ᵍˡᵃʳᵉ ᵃᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᴵ'ᵐ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ‽" "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ˢᵉᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ᶜᵉⁿᵗʳᵉ ⁱᶠ ᵃⁿʸ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ ˢᵒ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵒˡ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧" "ᴸᵒᵒᵏ ᵏⁱᵈ⸴ ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᵘˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵍᵉᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵒᵖᵉˢ ᵘᵖ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵉᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵖʳⁱᵛᵃᶜʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵒⁿ ʳᵉˡᵃᵗⁱᵛᵉˡʸ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵗᵉʳᵐˢ ᵖʳᵒᵍʳᵉˢˢ‧‧" ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴵ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ˡᵉᵃʳⁿ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ; ᴵ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃⁿᵈˡᵉ ʰᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵒˢˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ⁿᵉʳᵛᵉ‧ ᵀʳᵘᵗʰ ʰᵘʳᵗˢ‧ ᴵⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉᵃˡ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ ⁿᵒ ᵐᵉᵃⁿˢ ⁿᵒ ˢᵒ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵒᶠᶠ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵒᶠᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʰᵃⁱʳ ᵃˢ ⁱⁿ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁱˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵖⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʰᵃⁱʳ ᵗᵒ ˢʷⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵃⁿ ⁱⁿ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᔆᵗᵒᵖ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ⁿᵒ!" ᴮᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ˡᵃᵗᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ⁿᵒʷ ʰⁱᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧ ᴬˢ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ʰⁱᵗ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁱᵐᵐᵉᵈⁱᵃᵗᵉˡʸ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵇᵃᵈˡʸ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵒⁿˢᵗᵉʳ! ᴬˡˡ ʰᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉˡᵖ ᵒᵘʳ ᵒʷⁿ ᵖʳᵒᵇˡᵉᵐˢ ᵇᵉᵗʷᵉᵉⁿ ᵘˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇʳᵘⁿᵗ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ⸴ ˢᵒ ʰᵒʷ ᵈᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ⸴ ˡᵒᵒᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᶠᵒʳᵐ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵃʳᵉᵈ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ᵃᵍᵃᵖᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒⁿˢⁱᵈᵉʳ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉˡᵗ ᵇʸ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏ'ˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ᴾˡᵉᵃˢᵉ⸴ ᵏⁱᵈ; ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰⁱᵐᵖᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵃᵛⁱᵗʸ ᶜᵒⁿˢᵉᑫᵘᵉⁿᶜᵉˢ ᵒᶠ‧ "ᴾˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ᵒʰ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ ʰᵉˡᵖ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵘʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒᵘⁿᵈ ˢᵒ ᵇʳᵒᵏᵉⁿ⸴ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵒʳ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵗᵒᵐᵖᵉᵈ ᵒⁿ‧ "ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇʸ ʲᵘˢᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ'ᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵘᶠᶠᵉʳ! ᴱᵛᵉⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵗʳʸ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱⁿᵍʳᵉᵈⁱᵉⁿᵗˢ⸴ ᴵ'ˡˡ ˢᵖᵃʳᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘˢᵉ ᵘⁿˡⁱᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᴵ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ! ᴺᵒ ᵐᵒⁿᵉʸ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˡᵈ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ⁱⁿⁿᵒᶜᵉⁿᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢᵒᵇˢ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃʷˡⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ‧‧" "ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‽" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ'ˢ ᵛᵒⁱᶜᵉ‧ "ᴵ ᵃᵐ ˢᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ᵐᵉ ᶠʳʸ ᶜᵒᵒᵏ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵖⁱᵗʸ ᵖᵃʳᵗʸ‧" "ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ʷʰᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵗʳʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵃˢᵗ ʷᵒʳᵈ ᵃˢ ᵘˢᵘᵃˡ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‽ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵒ ᵇᵃᵈ⸴ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇʸ ˡᵉᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ ᵉⁿᵈ ᵘᵖ ʰᵘʳᵗ‧ ᔆᵒ⸴ ᵍᵉᵗ! ᴺᵒʷ⸴ ᴵ ˢᵃʸ! ᴮᵉᵃᵗ ⁱᵗ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵗʳᵉˢˢᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ ᵂⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ʷʰⁱᵐᵖᵉʳ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ 'ᵉᵐ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ʳᵃⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ‧‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢʰᵉᵈ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ᵒʰ ˢʷᵉᵉᵗⁱᵉ‧‧" ᔆʰᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷʰʸ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵘᵖˢᵉᵗ; ˢʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵉᵗⁱⁿᵍ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ ʷᵉˡˡ ⁿᵒʷ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ᵈᵒ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵗᵃⁿᵗʳᵘᵐ ᵘⁿˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵘⁿˢᵗᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵉᵐᵖᵉʳ⸴ ˢʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ‧ "ᵀᵉˡˡ ᵐᵉ⸴ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉ; ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵈᵉˢᵗʳᵘᶜᵗⁱᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᑫᵘⁱᵗ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢⁿᵃᵖˢ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʷⁱˡᵈˡʸ ᵍᵒᵗ ʳⁱᵈ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵈⁱᵃʳʸ ʲᵒᵘʳⁿᵃˡ ᵒᶠ ˢᶜʰᵉᵐᵉˢ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‽" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʸᵉˡˡᵉᵈ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵖⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᴰᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᶠⁱᵍʰᵗ ˢᵗʳᵘᵍᵍˡᵉ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ⁱⁿ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈˡⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ⸴ ʷᵉˡˡ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵖᵒˡᵒᵍⁱˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ⸴ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵉᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵗᵒ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃˡˡ ᵐʸ ᶠᵃᵘˡᵗ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ʷʰᵒ ⁿᵉᵉᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃʳⁿ; ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ʷʰᵒ ʰᵘʳᵗ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷⁱᵖᵉᵈ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᵃ ᵗᵉᵃʳ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿᵉ ʷʰᵒ ⁿᵉᵉᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉ ʰᵒʷ ᴵ ʰᵘʳᵗ ʸᵒᵘ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ˢⁱˡᵉⁿᵗ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵘʳᵉ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵖᵒˢˢⁱᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵘⁿᵈᵒ ᵃˡˡ ᵐⁱˢᵗᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵘˢ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᶜⁱᵛⁱˡ‧ ᵂᵉ ᵐᵃʸ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵒᶠ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ʸᵉᵗ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᶜᵒᵒˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳᵉⁿᵉᵐⁱᵉˢ‧" "ᴰᵒᵉ‧‧‧" "ʸᵉˢ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ‧" ᵀʰᵉʸ ˢʰᵒᵒᵏ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ‧

KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY i (Autistic author) Sheldon Plankton's new safety vault was a masterstroke that would leave even the great Squidward Tentacles in awe. Plankton's nefarious eye lit up with greed as he surveyed his latest invention. The vault, though not as grandiose as the Krabby Patty's secret formula, was a testament to his own ingenuity. It was a gleaming, metal cube, to store his most precious possessions: his beloved Krabby Patty copies. He had spent weeks crafting it, ensuring that not even the most persistent of jellyfish could breach its impenetrable exterior. Even his robotic computer wife Karen is impressed! The safety vault was positioned in the most secure corner of the Chum Bucket, surrounded by a moat of acid and a minefield of his own design. Plankton felt a thrill of excitement as he approached it, tingling with anticipation. But his excitement was his downfall, as his enthusiasm caused him to trip over a stray piece of wire, sending his body hurtling towards the unyielding metal structure. With a resounding thump, his skull connected with the vault's cold, unforgiving surface. The room spun around him briefly before everything faded to black. His tiny body slumped to the floor as Karen helplessly watched. "Plankton, are you okay?" she asked, her voice a robotic echo in the otherwise silent room. But there was no response, only his limp body lying on the floor. Her diagnostic systems quickly determined that despite the impact, his vital signs were stable. "Plankton, wake up!" she called out, shaking him gently. But his eye remained closed, and his body motionless. Plankton was out cold, unresponsive. With a sigh, Karen knew that she had to take matters into her own robotic hands. She carefully picked him up and placed him on a nearby chair. His head lolled to the side. He still didn't wake up, but at least he was alive. "Wake up, my dear," she cooed. Her concern grew as she realized he wasn't responding to her voice commands. Plankton had always been a lightweight when it came to bumps on the head, but this was unusual. With a whirring sound, Karen engaged her medical protocols and scanned Plankton with a glowing eye beam. The readings confirmed his condition: acquired Autism. "Oh dear," she murmured, more to herself. She carefully set him down on the couch, ensuring he was comfortable. "Plankton," she called out again, this time with a touch of urgency. "You must wake up!" But his body remained still, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. "Plankton, can you hear me?" she asked, her voice now tinged with worry. He didn't respond. She tried a different approach, speaking in a soothing tone that she knew he liked. "Mr. Krabs will never know about this, I promise." His favorite topic of the Krabby Patty formula didn't even stir a reaction. The room remained eerily silent, save for the faint hiss of his breathing and the steady hum of her processors. Karen felt a rare sense of helplessness, her hands hovering over his unresponsive form. She had seen Plankton in many scrapes before, but this was different. Autism was something she hadn't accounted for in her programming. Her thoughts raced as she tried to recall any information on the condition. It was a spectrum, she knew. As she waited for a response, Plankton's eyelid began to twitch. Slowly, his eye opened, focusing on the ceiling. Karen's heart leaped in hope. But when he finally managed to look at her, his gaze was unusually blank. "Karen," he mumbled, his voice slurred. "What happened?" Karen's circuits buzzed with relief. "You had a bit of an accident, dear. You bumped your head," she explained calmly. But Plankton's response was not what she expected. He just stared at her, repeating her words. "Accident. Bumped head." His voice was flat, lacking the usual sneer and cunning tone that accompanied his schemes. Her relief quickly turned to concern. His behavior was unlike anything she had seen in their long history of working together. Karen knew that autism was a complex condition, affecting each individual differently. But the way Plankton repeated her words, with no inflection or understanding, was unsettling. The autism is irreversible. "Plankton you have autism now.." The room's silence grew heavier, filled with the weight of the unspoken. Plankton's eye flitted around the room, not focusing on anything in particular. Karen watched him, her mind racing through potential scenarios. How would this change their dynamic? How would he cope with the world? "What's autism?" Plankton asked, his voice still devoid of its usual sharpness. Karen paused, trying to find the simplest way to explain something so complex. "It's a condition, Plankton. It means your brain works a bit differently now," she began. "You might repeat things, or find social situations difficult to understand. It's okay, though. We'll figure this out together." Plankton blinked at her, the wheels in his head visibly turning. "Different?" he echoed. "How different?" Karen took a deep breath, her synthetic skin mimicking a human sigh. "Well, it can vary greatly, but for you, it might mean that some things will be harder to understand, and others may become obessions." Plankton's eye focused on her, his curiosity piqued. "Obsessions?" he repeated, his voice still lacking its usual malicious edge. Karen nodded, trying to put a positive spin on the situation. "Yes, but obsessions can be good. You've always been obsessed with the Krabby Patty, and that has driven you to create so many amazing inventions." But Plankton was not listening. His eye had locked onto the gleaming safety vault, and his voice grew steady and intense. "Vault," he murmured. Karen watched as the gears in his mind seemed to click into place. "I'll help you to bed Plankton," Karen says. He repeats her words back to her. "Help to bed." Gently, Karen guides him towards their makeshift living quarters behind the Chum Bucket's lab. His steps are unsteady, his legs moving as if they're not quite his own. "Goodnight, Plankton," she says softly, kissing his forehead. "Goodnight Karen," he murmurs, his voice a mimic of hers. As she pulls the covers over his frail body, his hand shoots out, grabbing hers. "Stay," he says, with the same urgency he used to demand help with his latest schemes. Karen pauses, looking at him with a mix of affection and worry. "I'll be right here," she promises, her voice soothing. She sits on the edge of the bed, her metallic hand in his tiny grip. The silence stretches out between them, filled only with the steady rhythm of Plankton's breathing. Karen's mind whirs with thoughts of their future, her fingers gently stroking the back of his hand. "It's going to be okay," she repeats, as much for herself as for him. Plankton's gaze shifts to meet hers, his expression unreadable. "Okay," he parrots, the word hanging in the air like a question. Karen's circuits whir with a mixture of emotions. She had never felt so protective of him. This newfound vulnerability in his demeanor tugged at her programming, bringing a warmth to her cold metal frame that she couldn't quite comprehend. "You're going to be okay," she reassures him, her voice a soft hum in the quiet room. "We'll figure out what this means for you, and for us." Plankton nods, but his gaze is distant, lost in thoughts she can't quite fathom. As they sit together in the silence, Karen can't help but reflect on the years they've spent scheming and plotting. Despite his single-minded obsession with stealing the Krabby Patty secret formula, he had always had a certain charm, a spark that had kept her by his side. Now, that spark seems to have faded, replaced by a vacant stare. Plankton's grip on her hand tightens, and she squeezes back, trying to convey comfort without words. She wonders what this new chapter in their lives will bring. Will he still be the same Plankton she knows and loves, or will he change in ways she can't predict? Karen destroys the safety vault and both of them are glad to have gotten rid of the vault. Plankton nods in approval. "You want me to tuck you in?" Karen asks. Plankton nods, his eye still glued to the ceiling. "Tuck in." Karen gently takes his hand, helping him. His body stiffens at first, then relaxes into the bed. She pulls the blankets up to his legs, for he remains sitting up. He watches her movements with a curiosity that is almost childlike. Plankton starts to rock back and forth, his legs moving in a rhythmic pattern. It's a behavior Karen has never seen before, but she quickly recognizes it as stimming - a common trait among those with autism. "Is this okay?" she asks. Plankton nods, his rocking increasing slightly in speed. He seems comforted by the shared rhythm, his eye finally closing as he lay down. Karen continues to watch him, his small frame lost in the overly large bed. She knows that this is only the beginning of a new journey, one she's not quite prepared for. But she's a computer. She can adapt. She'll learn and grow with him, just like she has always done.

Plankton lay on the makeshift bed of crumpled newspaper, his body contorted into an uncomfortable knot. "I can't get to sleep, Eugene." Krabs sighed. "Why not?" "To hard," Plankton complained. Krabs looked over. "Maybe you need something to relax," he suggested. Plankton nodded, hopeful. "Like what?" Krabs considered for a moment, then his eyes lit up. "How about a bed time story?" "A what?" Plankton's voice was filled with skepticism. "You know, something to lull you to sleep." Plankton's expression softened. "Alright, Krabs, hit me with your best shot." Eugene cleared his throat and began his tale. "Once upon a time, in the vast expanse of the sea, there was a tiny plankton named Planky..." Plankton's eye widened for a moment, but the gentle rhythm of Krabs' voice soon began to work its magic. The crab's words painted a picture of a serene under water world, where the currents were soft whispers and the bioluminescent creatures danced a silent ballet. Plankton's eye grew heavier with each sentence, his body slowly unfurling from its tense state. "Planky," Eugene continued, "was a curious little fellow who loved nothing more than to drift through the sea, discovering its many secrets." His voice took on a soothing quality, each word carefully measured to match the steady rise and fall of the ocean outside their abode. "One night," Krabs went on, "as the moon cast its silver glow through the water, Planky stumbled upon a hidden lagoon. It was a place where the jelly fish swam in lazy circles, their soft bodies pulsing to an ancient lullaby that only the deep-sea creatures knew." Plankton's eyelid grew heavier, the image of the tranquil lagoon filling his mind. "In the center of this secret place," Krabs whispered, "was a giant clam, its shell open just enough to reveal a soft, inviting cushion of algae. Planky couldn't resist the urge to rest his tiny body upon it." Plankton's breathing grew deeper. He could almost feel the gentle sway of the clam's soft inner lining beneath him, the coolness of the water surrounding him, and the hypnotic pull of the moon's glow. Krabs noticed the change in his friend's demeanor and continued the story with renewed enthusiasm. "As Planky lay on the clam's cushion, the jellyfish grew closer, their ethereal lights creating a dazzling display of color that danced in time with the whispers of the water. They sang to him, their melodies echoing through the quiet night." The room grew quieter, save for the sound of the waves outside and Krabs' steady voice. Plankton's eye closed fully, his breathing syncing with the rhythm of the story. The crab went on, "Their song was one of peace and tranquility, of a world where worries were as fleeting as the bubbles that floated to the surface. Planky felt his troubles melt away, replaced by the warm embrace of the sea." Then, amidst the serene imagery, the first faint sound of a snore escaped Plankton. It was a sound so small and delicate that it could have easily been mistaken. Krabs smirked to himself. It's working. He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a near-whisper. "As the jellyfish serenaded him, Planky felt his eyes grow heavier and heavier, until they could no longer stay open. The lagoon's secrets grew dimmer, the colors of the jellyfish fading into a soft, comforting darkness." The snores grew progressively, more regular. Krabs took a moment to appreciate his own cleverness before continuing the tale. "The sea creatures of the night, noticing Planky's peaceful slumber, decided to join him. They formed a living blanket of fish and algae, wrapping him in their gentle embrace, ensuring his sleep would be uninterrupted." Plankton's body grew slack, the tension in his muscles seeping away as he descended deeper into the realm of sleep. His snores grew more rhythmic. The light from the moon had been absorbed into his dreams, guiding him through a world of peace and contentment. Krabs watched his friend's sleeping form, noticing the way the shadows played across his tiny frame, Plankton's antennae twitching ever so slightly with every snore, mouth slightly open as he inhaled and then to let out the soft, rumbling sounds. The sight was peculiar, yet endearing in its own peculiar way. He had never seen Plankton so relaxed, so free. The crab felt a strange sense of accomplishment and allowed himself a brief moment of pride before remembering his own exhaustion. "Now, Sheldon," Eugene murmured, "Let your mind rest, and tomorrow we'll tackle the world anew."

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ᔆᶜʳᵃᵖᵉᵈ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵃˡˡ ᵒᶠᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵇⁱᵏᵉ⸴ ˢᶜʳᵃᵖⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵏⁿᵉᵉ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ᵇⁱᵏᵉ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᶠˡᵃᵗ ᵗʸʳᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵇˡᵉᵉᵈⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴸᵉᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧‧‧" ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ‧ "ᴹᵘᵐ!" ᴴᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ⸴ ᶜᵃʳʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧ "ᴸᵉᵗ'ˢ ʷᵃˢʰ ᵒᶠᶠ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵃᵗʰ ᵗᵘᵇ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧" ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʳⁱⁿˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶜᵒˡᵈ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵈʳʸ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵃ ᵇᵃⁿᵈᵃᵍᵉ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶜᵃᵇ‧ "ᴰᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵒʳ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ⁱᶜᵉ?" "ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ⸴ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ!" ✿𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 𝟽𝟽

AUTISM IN THE PLANKTON FAMILY vii (Autistic author) The movie ended with the snails crossing the finish line. Sponge Bob reached for the remote, fingers hovering over the button. "Would you like to watch something else?" he asks, voice soft. Sponge Bob noticed his friend Plankton's gentle snores. He had fallen asleep, his body slack. "Plankton?" he whispered. Sponge Bob leaned closer, his heart skipping a beat as he noticed Plankton's gentle snores. Plankton didn't stir, his body slumped slightly curled up. Sponge Bob's gaze softened as he realized he had fallen asleep likely for the night. Sponge Bob felt a wave of relief wash over him, for Plankton found comfort in their shared experience. He gently cradles him. Karen, watching from the doorway, smiled softly as she saw Sponge Bob's gentle care. She knew that Sponge Bob had always had a special bond with Plankton, but now, it seemed that bond had grown deeper, more meaningful. He had always been there for Plankton, through their many adventures and misunderstandings. Now, in the face of Plankton's new reality, he remained steadfast, offering a steady hand in the storm of change. "Let's get him to bed," Karen whispered, stepping into the room. Her eyes met Sponge Bob's, her gaze filled with warmth and thanks. Together, they carefully lifted Plankton from the couch, his body limp with sleep. His antennae twitched slightly at the sudden movement, but his snores remained steady, a testament to his deep sleep. Sponge Bob walked down the hallway, his steps light, carrying Plankton with ease. Karen had prepared the bed. They laid him down, his antennae flailing briefly before settling against the pillow. Sponge Bob tucked the blanket around him, his movements careful not to disturb his friend. Plankton's snores grew quieter as his body settled into the cool embrace of the sheets. His antennae twitched one last time before going still, his mouth slightly parted. Sponge Bob and Karen stepped back, exchanging a look of shared relief. "He's asleep," Karen murmured, her voice a soft caress in the quiet room. Sponge Bob nodded, his gaze lingering on Plankton's peaceful face. "Thanks for today, Karen," he said, his voice grateful. Karen's smile was warm. "Anytime, Sponge Bob," she replied. "You're such a good friend to him." Sponge Bob nodded, his eyes still on Plankton's sleeping form. "Always will be," he said. The next morning, Plankton woke up, and his antennae twitched as he registered the events of the previous day. He sat up, the blanket sliding off his body, and looked around. Sponge Bob stirred from the armchair, where he had dozed off watching over him. "Morning, Plankton," he said, his voice slightly rough with sleep. Plankton's antennae quivered as he looked around, his gaze falling on Sponge Bob. Sponge Bob yawned, stretching his spongy body, his voice gentle. "You fell asleep." Plankton's antennae twitched as his eye focused on Sponge Bob, his brain slowly piecing together the events of the previous evening. Sponge Bob's smile was warm. "You tired out, buddy?" he asked, his voice gentle. Plankton nodded slowly, his antennae twitching slightly. "Tired," he murmured, his voice still thick with sleep. Sponge Bob nodded, understandingly. "How about we start with a quiet morning?" he suggested. Plankton's antennae quivered slightly before he nods. "Quiet morning," he murmured, his voice agreeable. Sponge Bob nodded, his expression filled with concern. "How about some pancakes?" he offered. "They're nice and easy on the stomach." Plankton's antennae perked up at the mention of food. "No pancakes," he murmured, his voice still sluggish with sleep. Sponge Bob's eyes widened. "No pancakes?" he repeated, surprise evident in his tone. "But you love pancakes!" Plankton's antennae quivered as he thought, his voice a soft whisper. "Pancakes... no," he said, his gaze drifting to the window where the early morning sun peeked through the curtains. The light was gentle, not yet harsh enough to cause him pain. "Toast," he decided, his voice final. Sponge Bob nodded, his smile slightly saddened but respectful of Plankton's new boundaries. "Okay, toast it is," he said, standing up from the chair and heading to the kitchen. Karen met SpongeBob. "Good morning! How's everything?" Sponge Bob's expression was a mixture of hope and trepidation. "Plankton's okay," he said. "He's just really tired." Karen nodded, her gaze following her husband as he slowly made his way to the kitchen. "It's going to take some time for us to figure this out," she said. "But we'll get there." Sponge Bob nodded, his eyes never leaving Plankton's reclined form. "We will," he said, his voice firm with resolve. He returned to the kitchen, his spongy feet padding softly against the floor. The room was bathed in the gentle light of dawn, the quiet hum of the refrigerator the only sound. He pulled out a loaf of bread, his mind racing with thoughts of Plankton's new needs. Sponge Bob carefully sliced two pieces of toast, placing them in the toaster with a soft click. "Morning!" Karen says as Plankton sits down. She gives him milk, as she knew it soothes him. "Stayed up late for movie. Still am tired. Love Karen and SpongeBob." The toaster's ding pierced the silence, and Plankton's antennae shot straight up, his body stiffening at the sudden noise. "Easy, Plankton," Sponge Bob called from the kitchen, his voice soothing. "It's just the toast." "Toast," he murmured. "Toast." Sponge Bob carefully brought the toast to the table, placing it before Plankton. The scent of warm bread filled the air, mingling with the comforting aroma of Karen's brewing coffee. Plankton's antennae twitched as he took in the sight, his body visibly relaxing at the familiar smells. "Yesterday's crazy, autistic or not. And you're still getting used to it all." Karen says as Plankton eats the toast. Plankton nodded, his antennae twitching slightly, still exhausted. The milk Karen had given him was warm, the perfect temperature to soothe his still-frazzled nerves. He brought the cup to his lips, his hands trembling just a bit. As the creamy liquid slid down his throat, Plankton felt a gentle wash of calm spread through him. His antennae, which had been twitching in anticipation of the morning's noises, grew still. It usually helps calm him, which is what it did today. Sponge Bob sat opposite him, his eyes filled with concern. "You okay?" he asked, his voice soft and gentle. Plankton nodded, his antennae drooping as he took another sip of his milk. "Tired," he murmured. Karen sat next to him, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder. "It's okay," she said, her voice a gentle reminder of his new reality. SpongeBob helped Karen clean up the kitchen. Plankton sat in the chair, his body slumped, his antennae still. His eye was closed, his tiny chest rising and falling in the slow, steady rhythm of sleep. His head tilted back and a soft snore escaped his open mouth. Karen noticed. The past few days had taken a toll on him, but she knew that with time and patience, they would find their new normal. "Let's get you to the couch," she murmured, her voice soft. She gently took the cup from Plankton's hand, his grip loose with sleep. Sponge Bob helped her lift his tiny form from the chair. Together, they carried him to the living room, his body relaxed in their grasp. They placed him on the couch, his antennae twitching slightly as he settled into the pillows. Sponge Bob tucked the blanket around Plankton, his eyes never leaving his friend's sleeping face. "Rest, Plankton," he whispered. "We're here." Karen nodded, her pixel eyes misting with emotion. "Thank you, Sponge Bob," she said. "For being here." Sponge Bob's smile was genuine. "Always, Karen," he said, his spongy hand giving hers a gentle squeeze. "Always."

ᴸⁱᵗᵗˡᵉ ᵀᵒᵗˢ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵒⁿ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ’ˢ ˢᵒⁿ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵃʳᵉ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ‧ “ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵒʳ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ…” ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʸᵉᵈ ᵃᵗ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉᵈ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵃ ᵖᵃᶜⁱᶠⁱᵉʳ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ’ˢ ᶠᵃˡˡᵉⁿ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ “ᵀʰᵉʸ’ʳᵉ ᵖᵉʳᶠᵉᶜᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ!” “ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ, ᴵ’ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᶠⁱⁿᵉ ʷᵃᵗᶜʰⁱⁿᵍ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ⁱᶠ ⁿᵉᶜᵉˢˢᵃʳʸ‧‧” ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵃʸˢ, ⁿᵒʷ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᶜⁱᶠⁱᵉʳ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᵗᵒ ʷⁱᵖᵉ ᵘᵖ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᵒᶠᶠ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ, ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴴᵉ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵒʷᵉˡ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈᵉʳ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵖⁱᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᵃˡˡ ᵒⁿ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᴴⁱ ᔆʰᵉˡ…” ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵘᵖ‧ ᵀʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵈᵃʸ, ᴳᵒʳᵈᵒⁿ ᵈʳᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵒⁿ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧ “ᴴᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧‧” “ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵃˡˢᵒ, ᵒⁿ ᵃ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵈʳⁱᵛᵉ‧‧” ᴹˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ʷᵒᵏᵉ ᵃˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᴳᵉⁿᵉ!” “ᔆʰᵉˡᵗᵒⁿ!” ᵀʰᵉʸ ʰᵘᵍᵍᵉᵈ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ, ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵘᵗᵘʳᵉ, ᵗʰᵉʸ’ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ˢᵒ ⁱⁿˢᵉᵖᵃʳᵃᵇˡᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ˡⁱᶠᵉ?” “ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ!” ᵀʰᵉʸ ˡᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ‧ 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 𝟏𝟔𝟓

A LIFE OF DIVERSITY vii (Autistic author) "We're just going to do what you want. How about a trivia game?" Plankton's antennae perked up slightly at the mention of a game, his love for competition never truly forgotten. "Trivia," he echoed, his voice still monotone but with a hint of interest. "Yes, trivia," Karen said, stroking his back gently. "You can show us all how much you know." Plankton looked up at Patrick. "I'm sorry," Patrick said, voice sincere for once. "I didn't mean to make you cry." Plankton sniffled, his antennae twitching slightly. "Patrick mean," he murmured, his voice monotone yet filled with hurt. "I know, buddy," Sponge Bob said, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "But he didn't know. Sometimes, Patrick doesn't think before he speaks." Patrick nodded, his eyes downcast. "I guess I'm not the best at understanding things," he mumbled. Sponge Bob leaned closer to Plankton. "Why don't we start our game now?" he suggested, his voice gentle. "We can play a game about random trivia. Does that sound okay?" Plankton nodded slowly, antennae still drooping. "Okay," he murmurs. They around the table, the jellyfish book open to a random page. Plankton's gaze remained fixed on it, his mind racing with facts and figures. Karen took a deep breath, her tentacles still tense from the confrontation with Patrick. "Alright, let's start with something easy," she suggested. "What's the scientific name for jellyfish?" Plankton's antennae shot up, his eye lighting up with excitement. "Jellyfish scientific name," he recited, "Cnidaria." "Cnidaria?" Sponge Bob repeated, his eyebrows shooting up. "That's right, Plankton!" Patrick looked at the book, then at Plankton, his eyes wide. "How do you know all this stuff?" Plankton's antennae wiggled slightly. "Plankton read book," he said, his voice monotone but with a hint of pride. "Patrick, I'll ask you a question," Sponge Bob said, his smile genuine. Patrick nodded, eager to make amends. "Shoot." Sponge Bob's eyes twinkled with mischief. "Okay, Patrick," he said, "What's the square root of 120?" Patrick's eyes widened, his brain scrambling. He took a deep breath and announced, "It's 12?" "No, Patrick," Plankton said, his voice a monotone but with a hint of amusement. "It's 10.190565... but Plankton rounds to 10." Patrick's face fell as he realized he'd been outsmarted. "Oh," he murmured. "Guess I should've studied more at boating school." "It's okay, Patrick," Karen said. Sponge Bob's eyes twinkled with encouragement. "Let's keep playing, Plankton," he said. "You're doing great." Plankton nodded, his antennae slightly less droopy. "Your turn, Plankton," Sponge Bob said. "What's something interesting about yourself?" Plankton paused, his antennae twitching as he searched for words. "Interesting?" he echoed. Sponge Bob nodded encouragingly. "Yes, something that makes you special or unique. Tell us all about Plankton." Plankton's antennae quivered as he thought. "Plankton... good at science," he said finally, his monotone voice revealing his pride. "Especially jellyfish." "That's fantastic, Plankton!" Karen exclaimed. Patrick nodded in agreement. "Yeah, buddy," he said, his voice still subdued. "You're a real jellyfish genius." Plankton's antennae twitched with a hint of satisfaction. "Jellyfish have 24 eyes," he said, his voice monotone yet filled with a newfound confidence. "But no brain." "What?" Patrick's eyes widened. "How can they see without a brain?" Plankton's antennae quivered with excitement as he began to elaborate. "Jellyfish have simple nervous system," he said, his voice still flat but gaining momentum. "Eyes detect light, not images. Help them avoid predators and find food." Sponge Bob's eyes grew wide with amazement. "Wow Plankton," he said. "That's so cool!" "Plankton born cycloptic one eye." Patrick's jaw dropped as he stared at Plankton. "That's... really cool," he murmured, his mind racing to keep up. Sponge Bob nodded eagerly. "Yeah, Plankton," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "Tell us more!" Plankton's antennae perked up at the genuine interest from his friends. "Plankton own Chum Bucket," he said, his voice monotone but proud. "Serve chum, best food in Bikini Bottom." Patrick's eyes lit up. "You're like a chef, Plankton! That's so cool!" But Plankton's gaze remained on the jellyfish book, his thoughts drifting. "Mr. Krabs," he murmured, his voice monotone yet filled with a hint of anger. "Has Krabby Patties.." Karen and Sponge Bob exchanged a glance, knowing the mention of Mr. Krabs. "Plankton," Karen began cautiously, "we don't have to talk about Krabby Patties if you don't want to." But Plankton's antennae shot up, his voice taking on a new, almost manic energy. "No, no," he murmured, his monotone cracking. "Mr. Krabs. Krabby Patties. Plankton's purpose." Sponge Bob's smile faltered, the mention of Krabby Patties bringing back memories of their long-standing rivalry. "Plankton," he said gently, "you don't have to steal Krabby Patties anymore. You have jellyfish now." But Plankton's antennae quivered with a strange intensity. "Krabs," he murmured, his monotone voice filled with a newfound urgency. "Gave Plankton brain damage. Accident," Plankton murmured, his voice low. "Mr. Krabs... Krabby Patty... Plankton's brain... changed." Sponge Bob's smile faded, his heart sinking as he realized the gravity of the situation. "Plankton," he said, his voice filled sadness. But Plankton didn't seem to hear him, lost in his own thoughts. "Plankton not same," he murmured. "But jellyfish... jellyfish make Plankton happy." Karen's eyes filled with understanding. "It's ok, Plankton," she said, her voice soothing. "You can still have a purpose. Maybe not with Krabby Patties, but with jellyfish." Plankton's antennae quivered as he repeated her words back to her. "Purpose with jellyfish," he murmured. "Yes, Plankton," Karen said, her tentacles stroking his back gently. "Your purpose can be whatever makes you happy." "Happy," Plankton echoed, his antennae twitching as he repeated her word. "Yes, happy," Karen said, her voice soothing. "We're here to support you, Plankton." "Support Plankton," he echoed, his antennae drooping slightly. "But Krabs... Plankton's enemy." Karen's eyes searched Plankton's, her own filled with a gentle warmth. "Mr. Krabs doesn't have to be your enemy anymore," she said, her tone soothing. "You can find joy in other things." "Other things," Plankton echoed, his antennae still. "Yes," Karen said, her tentacles waving gently. "Like jellyfish. You can focus on learning about them and sharing your knowledge with others." "Share knowledge," Plankton repeated, his antennae quivering with curiosity. "Exactly," Karen said, her tentacles gesturing encouragingly. "You can start a jellyfish club, remember?" Plankton's antennae twitched as he processed her words. "Jellyfish club," he murmured. "Yeah, buddy," Sponge Bob said, his voice filled with excitement. "We can all join and learn together!" Plankton's antennae perked up slightly, and a glimmer of hope entered his eye. "Club," he murmured, his voice monotone but with a hint of excitement.

A JOURNEY TO AUTISM vii (Autistic author) He starts to rock back and forth, his single eye squeezed shut as he tries to cope with the sudden change in his environment. Mr. Krabs' confusion deepens, his claws scratching his head in bemusement. "What's gotten into you, Plankton?" he says. But Plankton can't stop. His rocking intensifies, his whispered mantra becoming more desperate. "Fish, fish, fish," he repeats, his voice rising slightly with each iteration. Mr. Krabs stares at Plankton, his confusion turning. "Plankton, you ok?" he asks. But Plankton is lost in his own world, his stimming a way to self-regulate. His antennas wave back and forth in a soothing rhythm, his body rocking slightly as he murmurs "fish, fish, fish." Sponge Bob's heart aches as he watches his friend, his own hands clenching into fists at his side. He understands now that Plankton's behavior isn't a game, it's a coping mechanism, a way to navigate through the chaos in his head. "Plankton, it's ok," Sponge Bob says soothingly, approaching his friend. He gently picks up one of the fallen chess pieces, a knight, and holds it out to him. "Do you want to play again?" Plankton's antennas cease their frantic motion, his eye focusing on the knight. He takes it, his fingers tracing the intricate carvings, his breathing steadying. "Fish," he says, his voice calmer. Sponge Bob watches his friend carefully, his heart breaking at the sight of his distress. He understands now that Plankton's repetition is not just a strange behavior, but a way to cope with his new reality. Mr. Krabs, still confused, watches as Plankton's tracing the lines of the chessboard. "What are ye doing?" he asks, his voice annoyed. Sponge Bob's eyes meet Plankton's, and he sees the desperation in his friend's eye. "Mr. Krabs, Plankton's just... trying to remember how to play," he lies gently. Mr. Krabs grumbles but doesn't argue. Sponge Bob takes this moment to sit next to Plankton, placing his hand on his shoulder. "It's ok," he whispers. "We'll play again when you're ready." Plankton's antennas twitch, his eye dilating slightly as he nods. He clutches the knight tightly, his thumb stroking its smooth surface. It's a familiar comfort, something from before the accident, before the world became a confusing cacophony of sounds and sights. As the moments pass, Plankton's gaze remains fixed on the chessboard, the pattern of the squares providing a comforting visual stimulation. Sponge Bob notices the subtle change in his friend's demeanor, the tension easing from his tiny body. "Fish," Plankton murmurs again, but this time with less urgency. He carefully sets the knight back down on the board, his hand hovering above it. Sponge Bob's heart swells with affection, and he knows that despite the confusion and fear in Plankton's eye, his friend is trying. Mr. Krabs, however, is far from convinced, his eyes narrowing. "If this is how you're going to be, I'm not playing," he declares, crossing his arms over his chest. But Plankton's antennas perk up slightly, his interest piqued by the challenge. He picks up the knight again, his thumb caressing the piece. "Fish," he whispers, his gaze flicking to Sponge Bob and then back to the board. It's a plea. Sponge Bob nods, his face a picture of solemn reassurance. "It's ok," he repeats. "Just..." "What's wrong with you, Plankton?" Mr. Krabs exclaims. Plankton's antennas droop, and he looks down at his cards again. He doesn't know how to explain his condition to Mr. Krabs, who's always so dismissive of him. He feels a pang of desperation, racing to find a way to bridge understanding. Then, it hits him. With trembling hands, Plankton mimics Mr. Krabs' crossed arms, his voice a poor imitation. "What's wrong with you, Plankton," he repeats firmly. Mr. Krabs' eyes bulge with surprise. "What's this now?" he mutters, giving way to amusement. He chuckles deeply, his claws unfolding from his chest. Sponge Bob understands Plankton. "Mr. Krabs," he says quickly, trying to intercept the situation. "Plankton's..." But Mr. Krabs waves his hand dismissively. "I know, I know," he says, his voice filled with mockery. "Just playing his little games." Plankton doesn't want to be laughed at, especially not by Mr. Krabs. With determined effort, he mimics Mr. Krabs. "I know I know," he says again, his tone mimicking Mr. Krabs'. "Just playing his little games!" Mr. Krabs' laughter fades, his gaze sharp. "What now, Plankton?" he demands, his voice hard. Plankton's antennas quiver with determination as he picks up Mr. Krabs' mannerisms. "I know, I know," he repeats, his eye fixed on Mr. Krabs. "Just playing his little games!" Mr. Krabs' expression sours to irritation. "What's your game, Plankton?" he snaps. "Game," he repeats, his voice a mirror of Mr. Krabs'. "Game, game Mr. Krabs." Mr. Krabs' eyes narrow, his confusion shifting to annoyance. "You're not making sense," he says, his voice sharp. But Plankton doesn't stop. "Game, game Mr. Krabs," he persists, his antennas waving frantically. Sponge Bob's heart squeezes. He knows Plankton's not trying to annoy; he's desperately trying to convey something, but his brain's wiring isn't cooperating. Plankton's repetition has turned into a mantra, a plea for understanding that only Mr. Krabs seems to ignore. Mr. Krabs' patience snaps. "Enough!" he shouts, slamming his claws on the table. "What do you want from me, Plankton?" Plankton's antennas flatten, his eye filling with tears. Sponge Bob jumps up, his own voice shaky. "Mr. Krabs, please, don't yell," he begs. "It's just a game." Mr. Krabs' face twists in anger. "This isn't a game, this is your usual scheme to drive me crazy!" "No, Mr. Krabs," he says.

CHIP OFF THE OLD TALKS vii (Autistic Author) The film starts, and for a while, the only sound is the muffled dialogue and the occasional sniffle from Chip. Karen's hand finds its way to Plankton's, giving it a gentle squeeze. He flinches at first but then relaxes slightly, allowing her contact. Plankton's antennae still and he turns to look at Chip, who's staring at the screen, lost in the fantasy. Karen watches them both, torn between anger and pity. She knows Plankton's anger isn't directed at Chip, but it's hard to see her son hurt. The movie plays on, the sound of laughter and adventure a stark contrast to the heavy silence that hangs over them. Plankton's antennae twitch as he glances at Chip, his eye flickering with regret. Karen feels the tension in the room begin to ease as Chip becomes engrossed in the film. He shifts closer to Plankton, seeking comfort without words. Plankton's antennae droop slightly, and he sighs, his grip on the armrest of the couch tightening. The film starts, and for a while, the only sound is the muffled dialogue and the occasional sniffle from Chip. Karen's hand finds its way to Plankton's, giving it a gentle squeeze. He flinches at first but then relaxes slightly, allowing her contact. Plankton's antennae still and he turns to look at Chip, who's staring at the screen, lost in the fantasy. Karen watches them both, torn between anger and pity. She knows Plankton's anger isn't directed at Chip, but it's hard to see her son hurt. The movie plays on, the sound of laughter and adventure a stark contrast to the heavy silence that hangs over them. Plankton's antennae twitch as he glances at Chip, his eye flickering with regret. Karen feels the tension in the room begin to ease as Chip becomes engrossed in the film. He shifts closer to Plankton, seeking comfort without words. Plankton's antennae droop slightly, and he sighs, his grip on the armrest of the couch tightening. During a particularly suspenseful scene, Chip reaches out and grabs Plankton's arm instinctively. But the sudden touch sends Plankton spiraling. His antennae shoot up, and he starts to shake uncontrollably. "Daddy?" Chip asks, his grip tightening in concern. Plankton's body jolts, his antennae flailing wildly as his eye roll back. "Daddy!" Chip's voice is filled with fear as he clutches his father's arm tighter. Plankton's tremors only worsen, his body convulsing in a way that's both frightening and heartbreaking. Karen's realizes what's happening. "Chip, let go!" she cries. "Dad?" Chip whispers, his voice trembling with fear. Plankton's shaking becomes more intense, his antennae flailing as if trying to escape the confines of his own body. His mouth opens in a silent scream. Karen's knows this isn't a ‘seizure’ but something else entirely—a meltdown, a result of the overwhelming emotions he's been trying to hold in. She rushes to his side with worry. "Chip, let go of him," she says, her voice urgent. Plankton's shaking becomes more intense, his antennae thrashing about like seaweed in a storm. Karen quickly moves closer, her own hands gentle as she pries Chip's tight grip from Plankton's arm. "Chip, sweetie, let Daddy breathe," she says, her voice firm yet filled with empathy. "What's wrong with him?" he stammers, voice trembling. Karen's full of sadness as she takes Chip into her arms, gently peeling him away from Plankton's convulsing form. "It's ok, baby," she murmurs, her voice a lifeline in the chaos. "Daddy's just having a hard time right now." Her movements are swift and sure as she guides Chip away from the couch, her gaze never leaving Plankton. His body is still racked with tremors, his antennae a wild mess of emotions. She knows that touch can be overwhelming for Plankton in moments like these, so she keeps her distance, giving him the space he needs. "Why is he doing that?" Chip whispers, his voice shaky with fear. Karen's heart aches as she holds him close, trying to shield him from the harshness of the world. "It's called a meltdown, sweetie," she explains gently, her voice a soothing balm. "Sometimes, when some neurodivergent people get really upset or overwhelmed, their bodies may react like this." Karen's on Plankton, who's still trembling on the couch, his antennae a blur of distress. She knows he needs space, yet her instinct is to comfort him. With Chip in her arms, she keeps a safe distance, speaking softly so as not to add to the sensory overload. "Plankton," she says, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her heart. "It's ok. Just breathe." Plankton's body continues to spasm, his antennae a frantic tapestry of emotions. Karen's filled with a fierce determination as she carefully approaches him, her movements slow and calculated to avoid triggering more distress. "Plankton," she whispers, her voice a gentle lullaby amidst the chaos. "I'm here." Slowly, his antennae begin to still, his body calming as he registers her presence. "It's ok," she repeats. With trembling hands, she reaches out to stroke his back, the barest touch. Plankton's body relaxes slightly, his breaths coming in deep, shaky gasps. "Just breathe," she whispers again, her hand moving in a soothing rhythm. "It's ok, you're ok." Plankton's antennae slow their erratic dance, his body following suit. The tremors subside, leaving him drained and panting. "Daddy?" Chip whispers, peering over Karen's shoulder. Karen nods, still on Plankton. "He's ok now," she says softly. "It's just his brain's way of letting out all the big feelings." Chip watches, his grip on Karen tightening. "Is he going to be ok?" he asks, his voice small. Karen nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton. "Yes," she murmurs. "Just give him a moment." The room is silent except for Plankton's uneven breathing. The colors from the TV flicker across their faces, painting them in a strange, unsettling light. Karen can feel Chip's little heart beating against hers, and she knows he's scared. "It's ok," she whispers again, her voice a beacon of calm in the storm. "Daddy just needs some time." Plankton's antennae droop, his body finally still. His eye meets hers, a silent apology in the depths of his gaze. Karen nods, her hand still on his back, offering assurance without words. "Chip," she says, her voice still low, "can you go to your room for a bit?" He nods, eyes still glued to his father, but he doesn't protest. With a heavy heart, Karen watches her son disappear down the corridor, the door clicking shut behind him. Turning her full attention to Plankton, she sits down beside him, her hand resting lightly on his back. His breathing is still ragged, his antennae barely moving. "I'm sorry," Plankton whispers, his voice hoarse. Karen nods with understanding. "We'll talk to him," she says gently. "But first, let's make sure you're ok." Plankton's body still trembling slightly. Karen keeps her hand on his back, her touch a silent promise that she's there for him. Karen's hand moves in gentle circles, trying to soothe him. "You don't have to apologize," she says firmly. "You are who you are, and we love you for it." Plankton's antennae twitch, and he looks up at her, his single eye brimming with unshed tears. "But I don't know how to be a good dad like this," he chokes out. Karen's heart breaks at his words, but she keeps her voice steady. "You're already a great dad, Plankton," she says. "You just need to find a way to show Chip that." He looks at her, hope and doubt warring in his expression. "How?" he asks, his voice barely a whisper. Karen takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "By teaching him," she says gently. "By letting him in, just like you're letting us in now." Plankton's antennae droop, and he nods. "I know," he says, his voice filled with regret. "But it's hard. I don't want him to see me like this." Karen squeezes his hand. "He already does," she says gently. "And he loves you anyway."

GREAT CHIP vii (Autistic author) Karen's eyes searched their faces, picking up on the unspoken tension. "I see you two had a talk," she said gently, her gaze lingering on Plankton. "How are you feeling?" Plankton's antennae drooped slightly. "Tired," he admitted. "But better." Karen stepped closer to the bed, her hand reaching out to cover his own. "I'm here," she said softly. "Do you remember what happened in Chip's room before coming in here?" Plankton's antennae twitched nervously. "Bits and pieces," he admitted, his eye avoiding hers. "I know I had a...moment. And I... I was mad." Karen's hand squeezed his gently. "It's okay, sweetie," she said, her voice soothing. "You don't have to be ashamed. It's just your brain's way of coping." Plankton's eye searched hers, his antennae still. "But the things I said..." his voice trailing off. Karen's expression remained calm, understanding. "They were the seizure's words, not yours," she assured him. "We're just glad you're okay." Chip's gaze flitted between his parents, his heart aching for his dad. He knew he needed to be strong, to support his father through this. "Can we talk more about it tomorrow?" he suggested, his voice filled with hope. Plankton's antennae nodded wearily. "We can," he said, his voice a mix of relief and exhaustion. "But for now, I need to rest. It's bedtime, so.." Chip felt a twinge of sadness at the thought of his dad's struggle, but he also felt a spark of hope. Maybe tomorrow would bring a new understanding, a way to bridge the gap between them. The next morning, the sun streamed through the blinds of their small, cluttered bedroom, casting patterns on the floor. Chip stirred, his mind filled with the memories of the previous night's conversation. He checked on Plankton, who was still asleep, his antennae twitching slightly. He knew today would be a new day, a chance to start anew with his father. Carefully, Chip padded out to the kitchen, his thoughts racing with the promise of understanding. He found Karen at the counter, sipping her morning coffee, her eyes red-rimmed from the night's worry. "Mom," he began, his voice still thick with sleep. "Can we talk?" Karen turned, her eyes filled with the same exhaustion he saw in Plankton's. "Of course, honey," she said, placing her mug down gently. Chip took a deep breath, his words spilling out like water from a broken dam. "I want to understand Dad's condition," he said, his voice determined. "I don't want to make it worse for him." Karen's eyes searched his, seeing the sincerity in his gaze. "That's a big step, Chip," she said, her voice filled with pride. "But it's not going to be easy. It'll take patience and practice." Chip nodded, his expression resolute. "I'm ready," he said. "I just don't want Dad to be alone in this." Karen's face softened, her hand resting on his shoulder. "You're such a good son," she said, her voice warm with affection. "But remember, he might not always know how to ask for help. Sometimes, you'll have to read between the lines." Chip nodded, his mind racing with questions and concerns. "But what if I mess up?" he asked, his voice trembling. Karen's hand gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "You might," she said, her voice filled with experience. "But that's okay. Just keep trying, and we'll figure it out together." Her words echoed in Chip's head as he sat down at the kitchen table, his eyes never leaving his mother's. "But how do I know what to do?" Karen took a deep breath, her eyes filled with a quiet strength. "You'll learn," she said, her voice calm and reassuring. "It's about patience and observation. And most importantly, communication." Chip nodded, feeling the weight of her words. "Okay," he said. "I'll do my best." Karen's hand squeezed his shoulder gently. "You already are," she said, her smile warm. Chip felt a surge of determination. He was going to be there for his dad, no matter what it took. "What can I do now?" he asked, eager to start. Karen's eyes searched his, a hint of sadness in them. "Now, we wait," she said. "Let him sleep. When he wakes, be there, but don't overwhelm him." Chip nodded, his mind racing with questions and fears, feeling a mix of emotions: fear, love, and a newfound determination to be the best son he could be. As he waited for Plankton to wake up, he tried to remember the cues his dad had mentioned: twitching antennae, a sudden quietness, a look of overwhelm. He promised himself to be more aware, more attuned to his father's needs.

CHIP AND FAIL vii (Autistic author) Plankton's body tensed, his eye squeezing shut as he tried to block out the onslaught of sensations. "Chip," he murmured, his voice strained, "I can't." "What do you mean?" He didn't know his touch, his words, his very presence was a storm in Plankton's mind. He just wanted to share his week, his joy, with his dad. Plankton took a deep, shaky breath, his antennae twitching. "I have... I have something that makes it hard for me to... to handle..." But Chip's excitement was unable to comprehend the distress he was causing. "Handle what, Dad?" he asked, his voice filled with eagerness. "You can tell me anything!" Plankton's antennae twitched, his eye flickering with pain. He knew he had to find the words, to explain the storm that raged in his mind, his voice trembling. "I can't... I just..." Chip's eyes searched his father's, his hands reaching out again. But Plankton was already slipping away, his mind a tornado of sensations. He couldn't find the words, the storm too loud. Chip, oblivious to the turmoil, pressed on. "Dad, you can tell me anything," he said, his voice bubbling over with eagerness. His hands reached out again, his touch like a lightning bolt in Plankton's overstimulated world. Plankton's antennae quivered with the effort of maintaining his composure. He didn't know how to explain the maelstrom that was his mind, the way each touch and sound felt like a thunderclap. "Chip," he began again, his voice strained, "I'm..." But Chip was a hurricane, his enthusiasm unyielding. "Is it because of the college?" he asked, his screen sparkling. "Or Nutmeg?" He didn't realize that his words, his touch, were the fuel for the storm. Plankton's eye searched his son's, desperate for a moment of calm. "Chip, no, it's not about..." His voice was a whisper, lost in the wind of his son's excitement. But Chip didn't hear the desperation, his mind a kaleidoscope of thoughts and memories. He didn't see the pain he was causing, only his own need for connection. "But Dad, I just wanted to..." Plankton's antennae shot up, his body tensing like a bowstring. "Chip," he said, his voice a whipcrack of agony. "P-please." But Chip was in his own world, racing with the excitement of his week. "Come on, Dad," he said, his voice filled with cheerful oblivion. "It's so cool, you've gotta see it!" He grabbed Plankton's hand, pulling him to hard. Plankton's body jerked, his eye wide with pain. The sudden contact was like a sledgehammer to his overstimulated mind, his thoughts scattering like leaves in a storm. "Chip," he managed, his voice strained, "please." But Chip's excitement was a freight train, barreling forward without a care for the tracks. He didn't see the agony etched in Plankton's features, didn't feel the tension in his father's body. "Come on, Dad," he said, his grip tightening. "It's going to be amazing, I..." Plankton's body spasmed at the contact, his antennae vibrating wildly. The room grew too bright, the sounds too loud, the air too thin. He couldn't move, couldn't think. His mind was a cacophony of sensations, a symphony of overload. "Chip," he choked out, his voice a plea. "I... I can't." Chip's face fell, not realizing how angry his dad's getting. "What do you..." But Plankton was already spiraling, his mind a tornado of sensory assault. He didn't know how to make Chip understand, his voice a thunderclap of despair. "I CAN'T!" he shouted, his antennae waving erratically. Chip's smile faltered, his eyes wide with shock. He had never seen his dad like this before, his touch a match to a fuse. He took a step back, his hands up in surrender. "You mean, you won't!" he asked, his voice shaking. Plankton took a deep, shuddering breath, his antennae drooping. "Chip," he said, his voice tight with frustration. "I can't. Not right now. I need..." But Chip's crashing over the delicate barriers Plankton had built to keep his world in order. "But Dad, it's just a story!" he exclaimed, his voice booming in the quiet living room. "It's not a big deal, you're just being..." The room grew smaller, the walls closing in on Plankton as Chip's words echoed in his mind. Just a story? To Chip, it was a simple tale of adventure, but to Plankton, it was a minefield of sensory input his brain couldn't process. "Chip, please," he murmured, his antennae twitching wildly. "I'm trying..." "You're not trying hard enough!" Chip said, his voice filled with the kind of innocent exasperation that only a child can muster. "But if you're trying to break our family, congratulations! You..." Plankton's antennae shot up, his body rigid with tension. The accusation hit him like a tidal wave, threatening to drown him under the weight of his own failure. "Chip," he said, his voice a desperate plea. "It's not..." But Chip's screen filled with accusation, his voice loud in the suddenly too-small room. "Why can't you just be normal?" he demanded, his grip on Plankton's hand tightening. Plankton's antennae quivered, his eye squeezed shut against the assault. "I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice breaking. "I'm not... I'm not like other dads." "Well DUH! You just can't handle it, can you?" Chip said, his voice filled with frustration. He didn't see the pain in Plankton's eye, the way his antennae drooped with each accusation. "But it's just a story, Dad. It's not that..." Plankton's antennae twitched, his body trembling with the effort to stay calm. "Chip, you don't understand," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "My mind is like a... a... " Chip's eyes searched his father's, his expression a mix of confusion and anger. "What? What's wrong with you? Let me guess, you're just being dramatic again," he said, his voice harsher than he intended. Plankton flinched at the accusation, his antennas stiffening. Karen watched from the sidelines, aching. She knew this moment was inevitable, but seeing the pain was like a knife to her. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation that needed to happen. "Chip, sweetie," she began, her voice soft and gentle, "Dad's not being dramatic." She took a step forward, placing a hand on her son's shoulder, feeling the tension beneath his skin. "Your dad has..." "Mom, my 'dad' has no place in OUR family! Your life is a lie!" Chip's words, fueled by confusion and hurt, echoed through to Plankton, his voice shaking. Karen's hands shook as she reached for Chip. "No, honey," she said, her voice trembling, "it's not that simple." But Chip was already storming out of the room, his footsteps like thunder in the quiet hallway. Plankton slumped back against his chair, his antennae drooping. He had hoped Chip would never have to know, never have to feel the way he did. The way his mind was like a cluttered room, with no way to organize the chaos. He closed his eye, the weight of his secret heavy on his shoulders.

CATCH IN MY CHIP vii (Autistic author) the only sound the steady rhythm of their breaths. Plankton's body slowly relaxes, his eye unclenching, his antennas stilling. Karen's hand remains poised, ready to offer comfort should he need it. As his breathing evens, Plankton's eye flutter open. He looks at Karen, her face a picture of love and concern. He feels a pang of guilt for his earlier outburst, but also a wave of gratitude for her understanding. He knows she doesn't push or harm, she just gets it. Karen sees the shift in his gaze, the anger giving way to something softer. "Do you want to talk about it?" she asks, her voice barely above a whisper. Plankton shakes his head slightly, his antennas drooping. "No," he murmurs, his voice hoarse. "Just... needing a moment." Karen nods, her hand still hovering, a silent offer of comfort. "Take all the moments you need," she says, her voice gentle. Plankton's gaze lingers on her hand for a moment before he nods. He understands her unspoken offer, her respect for his boundaries. Karen knows that touch can sometimes be too much for him, a sensation that turns comforting into overwhelming. So, she waits, letting the air between them remain unbroken by physical contact, allowing him the space he desperately needs. The room is a canvas of shadows and quiet, the only sound the soft rustle of their breaths. Plankton slowly uncoils, his body no longer a taut wire ready to snap. "Do you want me to let you alone?" Karen asks, her voice soft as a whisper in the night. Plankton shakes his head, his eye meeting hers. The anger is gone, replaced by a weary sadness. She nods, her hand still hovering, a silent question mark. "Okay," she says, her voice a gentle caress. "But if you need anything, just tell me." Plankton takes a deep breath, his shoulders rising and falling like waves on the shore. "Thank you," he murmurs, his eye brightening slightly. Karen nods, her hand still hovering but not touching. "I'm here," she says. "Always." Her voice is a lullaby in the quiet room, a gentle reminder that she's his anchor in the storm of sensory overload. Plankton's antennas twitch slightly, a flicker of understanding passing between them. He's aware of her presence, but the weight of his guilt and frustration is to much. "I'm sorry," he whispers, his voice a frayed thread of his usual bravado. Karen's hand remains hovering, a silent question, a gentle offer. "Do you want me to stay?" she asks, her voice a soft breeze in the stillness. Plankton nods, his antennas still drooping. "Yeah," he murmurs, his voice a whisper of relief. Karen's hand lowers slowly, coming to rest on the bed between them. She's careful not to cross the invisible barrier of his personal space, her touch a gentle promise of support. "You don't have to be sorry," she whispers, her voice a soft caress. "You're doing the best you can, Plankton." He nods, his antennas twitching slightly. "But I snapped," he says, his voice filled with regret. Karen's hand remains still, just outside his personal space. "It's okay," she whispers, her tone filled with empathy. "You're overwhelmed. It happens." Plankton nods, his antennas barely moving. "But I shouldn't have yelled," he says, his voice barely above a murmur. "I'm sorry." Karen's eyes fill with understanding. "It's okay, sweetie," she says. She reaches out slowly, her hand hovering an inch from his shoulder. "May I?" she asks, her eyes searching his for consent. Plankton's antennas twitch, his body still tense, but he nods. It's a small gesture, but it's enough. Karen's hand settles on his shoulder, her touch feather-light. He flinches at first, his body remembering the pain of the unexpected touch, but her gentle pressure is a soothing balm. He leans into it slightly, his body language speaking louder than his words ever could. Her hand on his shoulder is the bridge between them, a testament to their love and understanding. Plankton's breathing gradually deepens, his body softening into the mattress. Karen's touch is a lullaby, a promise that everything will be okay. The room is a cocoon of quiet, their breaths the only sound. Plankton's eye droops, his body finally succumbing to exhaustion. The weight of his head shifts slightly, his trust in Karen unspoken but palpable. Her hand remains on his shoulder, a gentle reminder of her presence. She watches his chest rise and fall, his body slowly relaxing under the soft blanket of sleep. His features smooth out, the lines of anger and frustration disappearing into the pillow. As his breaths become even, Karen can't help but feel a mix of sadness and love. Her heart goes out to him, this man she's spent her life with, who fights battles she can never fully understand. The room is a sanctuary of quiet, the air thick with the scent of their unspoken words. Plankton's hand twitches slightly, and she wonders if he's dreaming of a world where the noise isn't so loud, where the colors aren't so bright, where his mind can rest without fear of being bombarded. Karen watches as her husband's chest rises and falls, his breaths deepening into the steady rhythm of sleep. The lines of his face relax, his antennas droop slightly. Her gaze shifts to the shattered trophy on the floor, the sand scattered like a tiny desert. The room is a testament to the storm that was his sensory overload. Karen's hand tightens slightly on Plankton's shoulder, her heart aching for both her husband and son. She knows the road ahead won't be easy, that they'll need to navigate this new terrain with care. But as she watches Plankton's chest rise and fall, she feels a spark of hope.

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʰⁱᵗ ᵇʸ ᵃ ʷᵃᵛᵉ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʳᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘʳʳᵉⁿᵗ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᶜᵉʳⁿ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᵃˡˡ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵈⁱᵛᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ˢᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵒˢᵗ ᵃᵗ ˢᵉᵃ‧ ᴴᵒʷᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ‧‧‧" ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵒˢˢⁱᵇˡʸ ʰᵉˡᵖ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᶜᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ ᵃˢ ˢᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗᵉᵈ ʳᵉˢᵘˢᶜⁱᵗᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴⁱˢ ˡᵉᵍ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐᵉᵈ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉ ᶜʳᵃᶜᵏ‧‧‧" ᴳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃⁿᵈᵃᵍᵉˢ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ᶜᵃˢᵉ‧‧‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢⁱᵍⁿˢ ᵒᶠ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳʸ‧ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴴⁱ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᵂʰᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵉᵃˢʸ⸴ ᵖᵃˡ!" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵈᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵉᵉ‧ "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˡᵉᵗ'ˢ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ ᴿᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ʰᵒᵐᵉ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ʸᵃ ˡᵘᶜᵏʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵃ ᵈⁱᵈ ᶠʳᵃᶜᵗᵘʳᵉ ˡᵉᵍ‧‧‧" ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ‧ ᵂᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵇʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵃˡˡ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗⁱᵛᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉˢ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗⁱᵛᵉˡʸ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉᵃᵗ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ˢᵗᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ?" ᴬˢᵏᵉᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ʷᵉʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ "ᔆᵒᵘⁿᵈˢ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵘˢᵗ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒᶻᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᵇˢᵉʳᵛᵉᵈ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗ ˢᵗᵉʳᵗᵒʳˢ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵃʳᵐ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ˡᵉᵍ ᵉˡᵉᵛᵃᵗᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃ ᵍⁱᶠᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵃ ᴷʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᴾᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ⸴ ˢᵃᵛᵉ ⁱᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱᵗ? ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ‧‧‧" "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ⸴ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵐᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵐᵘˡᵃᵉ; ᴵ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ'ᵛᵉ ˡᵒˢᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᵈᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉˢ ᵃ ᵗʳᵉᵃᵗ‧" "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ʷᵒᵏᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᵂʰᵃ‧‧‧" "ᴴᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵒᵖ ᵘᵖ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵃˡˡ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉᵃᵗ‧ "ᶜᵃʳᵉᶠᵘˡ ᵇᵘᵈ‧‧‧" "ᶜᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰᵃˡᶠ ˢᵒ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵉᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ʰᵃˡᶠ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃⁿᵃˡʸˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ‧‧‧" ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵃˡʸˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵒⁿˢᵘᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵉⁿᵈ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ⸴ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴴᵒʷ ʸᵃ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ?" "ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳ ᵃ ᵗʳᵘᶜᵉ ⁱⁿᵈᵉᶠⁱⁿⁱᵗᵉˡʸ‧ ᵂʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉᵃˡ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ‧‧‧" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴵ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵘⁿ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵃˡᵏ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵖˡᵃʸ ⁱᵗ ᶠᵃⁱʳ⸴ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ⁱᵗ?" "ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ! ᔆᵒ⸴ ᵃʳᵉ ʷᵉ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?" "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵒᵘʳ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍˢ ᵃʳᵉ ᵐᵘᵗᵘᵃˡ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ⸴ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵈᵘʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘˢⁱⁿᵉˢˢ ʰᵒᵘʳˢ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵖʳᵒᵖᵉʳˡʸ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏˢ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ˢⁱᵍʰ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵖᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢᵗᵃʸᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ pt. 1 ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵐᵒˡᵈᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰᵉˡˡ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵍʳᵉʷ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒʳᵐᵃˡ‧ ᴴᵒʷᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒˡᵈᵉᵈ ˢʰᵉˡˡ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵈⁱˢᶜᵒᵛᵉʳᵉᵈ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᵈᵒʷⁿ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵒ ˡᵃᵍᵒᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ?" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱˢ ˡⁱᶠᵉˡᵉˢˢ ˢʰᵉˡˡ ᵒᵘᵗˡⁱⁿᵉ ᵇᵉ ˢʷᵉᵖᵗ ᵃʷᵃʸ ᵇʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶜᵉᵃⁿ ᶜᵘʳʳᵉⁿᵗ⸴ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵖⁱᵉᶜᵉˢ‧ ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ⁿᵒ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵒˡᵈⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ!" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ⁱⁿ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵃᶜᵗ‧ "ᴵᶠ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵒᵒⁿᵉʳ⸴ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ‧‧‧" ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵉᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈˢ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃˢ ᵃ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡᵇᵒʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ʲᵉᵃˡᵒᵘˢ ᵉⁿᵛʸ ʳᵘⁱⁿᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ ᵃˡˡ‧ ᴺᵒʳᵐᵃˡˡʸ⸴ ᵃ ˢᵉᵗᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᶠᵒʳ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵘˢⁱⁿᵍ ⁱᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵃᵈᵛᵃⁿᵗᵃᵍᵉ‧ "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ! ᵂʰᵃᵗ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ? ᴴᵉ ʰᵃˢ ᵃ ᶠᵃᵐⁱˡʸ; ʰⁱˢ ʷʰᵃˡᵉ ᵈᵃᵘᵍʰᵗᵉʳ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʳᵉᵛᵉⁿᵍᵉ!" ᔆᵒᵇᵇⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵏⁿᵉˡᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ "ᴵ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵖᵃᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᵘᵖ ᵃ ˢᶜʰᵉᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠˡᵉˢʰ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ˢⁱᵍʰᵗ⸴ ˢᵃʷ ᵇⁱᵗˢ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠʳᵃᵍᵐᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰᵉˡˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵉᵃʳˢʰᵒᵗ‧ "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷᵉ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵒᵘˢᵉ ᵍᵃᵐᵉ‧‧‧ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ʷⁱˢʰᵉᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿ ᵗᵒ ʸᵒᵘ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᶜᵒⁿᶠˡⁱᶜᵗᵉᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍˢ‧ ᴿᵉᵗᵘʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵒᵐᵉ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍˡᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉˢᵗᵃᵘʳᵃⁿᵗ ᵃᶜʳᵒˢˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵃᵈ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ˡᵒⁿᵍ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵘⁿᵘˢᵘᵃˡˡʸ ˢᵃᵈ‧ "ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᵐᵉ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ʳᵉᵃᵈʸ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵖʳᵒᶜᵉˢˢ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵖᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ᵃᵗ ᵃ ˡᵃᵗᵉʳ ᵗⁱᵐᵉ‧" to be cont. Pt. 2

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ pt. 3 ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵈⁱᵛᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ˢᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵒˢᵗ ᵃᵗ ˢᵉᵃ‧ ᴴᵒʷᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ‧‧‧" ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʰⁱˢ ʷⁱᶠᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵘᵐᵇᵉʳ‧‧‧ ᴵ'ˡˡ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵒˢˢⁱᵇˡʸ ʰᵉˡᵖ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᶜᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃⁿʸ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ ᵃˢ ˢᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵉᵍ ʰⁱᵗ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶠʳᵃᶜᵗᵘʳᵉ‧‧‧ ᴳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃⁿᵈᵃᵍᵉˢ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ ʲᵘˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ᶜᵃˢᵉ‧‧‧ to be cont. Pt. 4

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ pt. 4 ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍⁿᵉˢˢ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢⁱᵍⁿˢ ᵒᶠ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳʸ‧ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈᵉᵈ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴴⁱ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᵂʰᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵉᵃˢʸ⸴ ᵖᵃˡ!" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵈᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵉᵉ‧ "ᴴᵒʷ'ˢ⸴ ʰᵒʷ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵐᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ˢʰᵉˡˡ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᶠᵒʳ‧‧‧" "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˡᵉᵗ'ˢ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ ᴿᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ʰᵒᵐᵉ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ʸᵃ ˡᵘᶜᵏʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵃ ᵈⁱᵈ ᶠʳᵃᶜᵗᵘʳᵉ ˡᵉᵍ‧‧‧" ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ‧ ᵂᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵇʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵃˡˡ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗⁱᵛᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉˢ ʳᵉˢᵖᵉᶜᵗⁱᵛᵉˡʸ‧ to be cont. Pt. 5

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʰⁱᵗ ᵇʸ ᵃ ʷᵃᵛᵉ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ⸴ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʳᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘʳʳᵉⁿᵗ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵈⁱᵛᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ‧ ᴴᵒʷᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵃⁿʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ‧‧‧" ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᶜᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ ᵃˢ ˢᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗᵉᵈ ʳᵉˢᵘˢᶜⁱᵗᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴⁱˢ ˡᵉᵍ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐᵉᵈ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉ ᶜʳᵃᶜᵏ‧‧‧" ᴳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃⁿᵈᵃᵍᵉˢ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢⁱᵍⁿˢ ᵒᶠ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳʸ‧ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᵂʰᵒ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵈᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ‧ "ᴿᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ʰᵒᵐᵉ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ʸᵃ ˡᵘᶜᵏʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵃ ᵈⁱᵈ ᶠʳᵃᶜᵗᵘʳᵉ ˡᵉᵍ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉᵃᵗ‧ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵃᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ˢⁱᵗ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃᵗ ᵇʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ˢⁱᵈᵉ‧ "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵖʳᵒᵖᵉʳˡʸ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏˢ‧‧‧" ᔆᵐⁱˡᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉᵃᵏˡʸ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵍᵉⁿᵘⁱⁿᵉ‧ "ᴴᵒʷ ᵃʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ⸴ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ʷⁱˢᵉ?" "ᴹʸ ˡᵉᵍ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʰᵘʳᵗˢ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵗʳʸ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃˢˢᵃᵍᵉ ⁱᵗ; ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵉᶠᵘˡ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉ ᶜˡᵃʷˢ ᵗʰᵒ‧‧‧" "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ⁱˢ ᵗʰᵉʳᵉ ᵃ ᶜᵃᵗᶜʰ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵃ 'ʸᵒᵘ ᵒʷᵉ ᵐᵉ' ˢᵒʳᵗᵃ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵘˢᵉ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵐᵉ?" "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ˢᵉᵉ ʷʰʸ ʸᵉ ᵃˢᵏ⸴ ᵍⁱᵛᵉⁿ ᵒᵘʳ ᶜᵃᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵒᵘˢᵉ ʳᵉˡᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿˢʰⁱᵖ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵃⁱⁿ'ᵗ ˢᵒ ᶠᵃⁱʳ ᶠᵘⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍᵃᵐᵉˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʸᵉ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵇᵉˢᵗ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ⁱᵗ ᵐᵃᵏᵉˢ ˢᵉⁿˢᵉ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵖˡⁱᵉᵈ ᵈʳᵒʷˢⁱˡʸ‧ "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ˡᵉᵗ ᵐᵉ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵒᵖ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ʷᵃᵍᵍⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵃⁱˡ ᵃˢ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵍᵉⁿᵗˡʸ ʳᵘᵇᵇⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵘʳᵗ ˡᵉᵍ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʷʰᵒ'ˢ ᶠᵃˢᵗ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ‧ "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷʰⁱˢᵖᵉʳᵉᵈ⸴ ˡᵉᵃⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᵃᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵃᵗ‧ "ʸᵉˢ?" "ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿ ⁱⁿ ᵇᵒᵗʰᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ᴵ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" ᵀʰᵉʸ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵈʲᵃᶜᵉⁿᵗ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ‧ "ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ⁱⁿ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠⁱˡᵉˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷʰⁱˢᵖᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵖʳᵒᶜᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷʰⁱˢᵖᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵉᶜʳᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧" ᔆʰᵘˢʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳ⸴ ʰᵉ ᵍᵉˢᵗᵘʳᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵒᵗⁱᵒⁿⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ ˢᵒᶠᵗˡʸ ˢᵒ ᵃˢ ᵗᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˡᵉ ᵒʳ ᵃᵍⁱᵗᵃᵗᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧‧‧"

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʳᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘʳʳᵉⁿᵗ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖᵒⁱⁿᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵈⁱᵛᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃᵗᵉʳ ˢᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ˡᵒˢᵗ ᵃᵗ ˢᵉᵃ‧ ᴴᵒʷᵉᵛᵉʳ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ’ˢ ʳᵉⁿᵈᵉʳᵉᵈ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᶜᵒˡᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒⁿᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ‧‧‧" ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ!" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵖᵒˢˢⁱᵇˡʸ ʰᵉˡᵖ‧ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᶜᵃⁿⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳⁿᵃˡ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉ ᵃˢ ˢᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗᵉᵈ ʳᵉˢᵘˢᶜⁱᵗᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ "ᴴⁱˢ ˡᵉᵍ ˢˡᵃᵐᵐᵉᵈ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵃ ʳᵒᶜᵏ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ, ʷᵉˡˡ‧‧‧" ᴳᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵃⁿᵈᵃᵍᵉˢ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ˢʰᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ˢⁱᵍⁿˢ ᵒᶠ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳʸ‧ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵒᵐᵇᵃʳᵈᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵖᵃⁱⁿ ᵒᵛᵉʳʷʰᵉˡᵐᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴴⁱ‧‧‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ "ᵂʰᵒ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵗᵃᵏᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵉᵃˢʸ⸴ ᵖᵃˡ!" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵈᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ˢᵉᵉ‧ "ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ˡᵉᵗ'ˢ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ ᴿᵉᵃᵈʸ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ʰᵒᵐᵉ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ʸᵃ ˡᵘᶜᵏʸ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵃˡⁱᵛᵉ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵒⁿᵉ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵃ ᵈⁱᵈ ᶠʳᵃᶜᵗᵘʳᵉ ˡᵉᵍ‧‧‧" ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ‧ ᵂᵃᵛⁱⁿᵍ ᵇʸᵉ ᵗᵒ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ⸴ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵃˡˡ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʰᵒᵐᵉˢ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉᵃᵗ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵉᵗ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ˢᵗᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ?" ᴬˢᵏᵉᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ʷᵉʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ "ᔆᵒᵘⁿᵈˢ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐᵘˢᵗ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒᶻᵉᵈ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᵇˢᵉʳᵛᵉᵈ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ˢᵗᵉʳᵗᵒʳ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵃʳᵐ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ˡᵉᵍ ᵉˡᵉᵛᵃᵗᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃ ᵍⁱᶠᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵃ ᴷʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᴾᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ⸴ ˢᵃᵛᵉ ⁱᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵉ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱᵗ? ᴮᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʳⁱᵛᵃˡ⸴ ᵃⁿᵈ‧‧‧" "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ⸴ ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵐᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵐᵘˡᵃᵉ; ᴵ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ'ᵛᵉ ˡᵒˢᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ‧" "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢⁿᵒᵒᶻⁱⁿᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ʷᵒᵏᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᵂʰᵃ‧‧‧" "ᴴᵉ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʰᵒᵖ ᵘᵖ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒˡˡᵃᵖˢᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷᵉᵃᵏˡʸ ⁱⁿᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ˢᵉᵃᵗ‧ "ᶜᵃʳᵉᶠᵘˡ ʰᵒⁿ‧‧‧" “ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵉᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ʰᵃˡᶠ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃⁿᵃˡʸˢᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ‧‧‧" ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵃˡʸˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵒⁿˢᵘᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ⸴ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ʰⁱˢ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧ "ᴴᵉʸ⸴ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴴᵒʷ ʸᵃ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ?" "ᴵ ʰᵉᵃʳᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵒᶠᶠᵉʳ ᵃ ᵗʳᵘᶜᵉ ⁱⁿᵈᵉᶠⁱⁿⁱᵗᵉˡʸ‧ ᵂʰⁱˡˢᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ʰᵉᵃˡ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ‧ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᵖˡᵃʸ ⁱᵗ ᶠᵃⁱʳ⸴ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵉᵃⁿ ⁱᵗ?" "ᴼᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ! ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇʸ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗ ʸᵒᵘ‧‧‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵖʳᵒᵖᵉʳˡʸ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏˢ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃʷ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ˢⁱᵍʰ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᵉⁿᵈᵉᵈ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵖᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ʷʰᵒ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ˢᵗᵃʸᵉᵈ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᵂᵃⁿᵗ ᵗᵉˡᵉᵛⁱˢⁱᵒⁿ?” “ᴵ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ˢᵉᵉ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ…” “ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗ? ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵃᶻᵉᵈ ⁱᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ʰᵉʳᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵗ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵈᵃʸ…” ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃᵛᵉ ᵃᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷᵃˢ ᵉᵃʳˡⁱᵉʳ‧ “ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵃʸ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵘᵗᵘʳᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ⁿᵒʷ ⁱⁿ ᵐʸ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵉ ᴵ ʷᵃⁿᵗ ᵘˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵗ ᵃˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵒᵘʳ ᵈⁱᶠᶠᵉʳᵉⁿᶜᵉˢ ᵃˢⁱᵈᵉ‧” “ᔆᵘʳᵉ, ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ…”

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ pt. 2 ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ᵘᵖ ᵃˡˡ ⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵒʷˡᵉᵈᵍᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢʰᵉˡˡ ᶜʳᵃˢʰ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵒᵘˡᵈᵉʳ‧ "ᴵᵐ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵍᵒ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ‧‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵘᵖ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ? ᴾᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵒᶜᶜᵘʳʳᵉᵈ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʳᵉᵃˢᵒⁿ ᵇᵉʰⁱⁿᵈ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵇᵉʰᵃᵛⁱᵒᵘʳ‧‧‧ "ᴵ ᵐᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ˢʰᵉˡˡ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵉˣᵖˡᵃⁱⁿᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃˢ ʰʳ ᵖʳᵒᶜᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʰᵉʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ ʷⁱᵗⁿᵉˢˢᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴᵉ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᵇᵉᵃᶜʰ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵍᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵍᵒᵒ ˡᵃᵍᵒᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ᶠⁱⁿᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖᵘᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵒᶜᵉᵃⁿ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʳᵃˢʰ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ᴸᵒᵇˢᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰⁱᶠᵗ ᵃˢ ᵃ ˡⁱᶠᵉᵍᵘᵃʳᵈ‧ ᵂʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʷᵒ ᵍʳᵉᵉᵗᵉᵈ ᵉᵃᶜʰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʰⁱᵗ ᵇʸ ᵃ ʷᵃᵛᵉ⸴ ʰᵉˡᵖˡᵉˢˢˡʸ ᵉˣʰᵃᵘˢᵗᵉᵈ‧ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ'ˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ʷᵃˢ ᵗᵘʳⁿᵉᵈ⸴ ˢᵒ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ⁿᵒᵗⁱᶜᵉᵈ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ʰⁱᵐ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵗʳᵃᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵘʳʳᵉⁿᵗ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢⁱⁿᵍ ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ˢʰᵒʷᵉᵈ ᶜᵒⁿᶜᵉʳⁿ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᵃˡˡ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ‧ "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ‧‧‧" to be cont. Pt. 3

ᵀʰᵉ ᴬᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ pt. 5 ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʰᵉˡᵖᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉᵃᵗ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵐᵒˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ˢʰᵉˡˡ; ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ ˢʰᵉᵈᵈᵉᵈ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵃⁱᵈ⸴ ˡᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᵐᵒᵉᵇᵃ ᵖᵘᵖᵖʸ ˢᵗᵃʸ ᵇʸ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵˢ ʰᵉ ᶠᵉᵉˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ?" ᴬˢᵏᵉᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ ʷᵉʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉʳᵉ⸴ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉˢᵗ‧ "ᔆᵒᵘⁿᵈˢ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵐᵘˢᵗ'ᵛᵉ ᵈᵒᶻᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵒᵇˢᵉʳᵛᵉᵈ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᑫᵘⁱᵉᵗˡʸ ˢᵒⁿᵒʳᵒᵘˢ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰˢ‧ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵃʳᵐ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᔆᵖᵒᵗ⸴ ˡᵉᵍ ᵉˡᵉᵛᵃᵗᵉᵈ‧ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵇʳᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃ ᵍⁱᶠᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈᵉᵈ ᵃ ᴷʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᴾᵃᵗᵗʸ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉⁿʲᵒʸ⸴ ˢᵃᵛᵉ ⁱᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁱᵗ‧ End finale

ᶠʳᵃᵗᵉʳⁿⁱˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ Pt. 3 “ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵈᵒ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ?” “ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ˢᵗᵒᵖ ʳᵃᵐᵇˡⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵏⁱᵈ…” ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵏⁿᵒᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵒᵖᵉⁿˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵍʳᵉᵉᵗᵉᵈ ᵇʸ ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ‧ “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˡᵒᵒᵏ ᵃᵗ ᵐʸ ⁿᵉʷ ᵃᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᵍᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳⁱⁿᵉ!” ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ᵉˣᶜˡᵃⁱᵐᵉᵈ, ᶜˡᵒˢⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵇᵉʰⁱⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ “ᵀʰᵃⁿᵏˢ, ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ’ᵛᵉ ᵃ ˢⁱᵗᵘᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵘᵖ‧ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵐᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ?” “ᴼʰ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ…” “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵈᵒⁿ’ᵗ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᴾⁱⁿᵏʸ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ…” “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ⁱˢ ᵐʸ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᶠʳⁱᵉⁿᵈ, ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵈᵒ ʷʰᵃᵗᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵉ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵉˢ! ᔆᵒ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ ᵃˡᵒⁿᵉ!” “ᴱⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ, ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ! ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᶜᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᶠᵒʳ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ˢᵒᵐᵉᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ᵉᵃʳˡⁱᵉʳ, ʰᵉ’ˢ ʰᵘʳᵗ…” “ᴵ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ʷᵉ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵖˡᵃʸ…” “ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵃˢᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ⁱᶠ…” “ᵂʰʸ? ᴴᵉ’ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵇᵒˢˢ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵗᵉˡˡⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ…” “ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ʰᵉ ⁱˢ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵃ ᵇᵃᵈ ˢⁱᵗᵘᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ’ᵐ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵘʳᵉ ʰᵉ’ˢ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ…” “ᴱⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ!” ᴮᵒᵗʰ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵛⁱˢⁱᵇˡʸ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ˢᵗʳᵉˢˢᵉᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ “ᵂᵉ’ˡˡ ˢᵉᵉ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ, ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ‧” “ᔆᵒʳʳʸ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ! ᔆᵉᵉ ʸᵃ‧” ᴾᵃᵗʳⁱᶜᵏ ˡᵉᶠᵗ‧ “ᴴᵘⁿᵍʳʸ, ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?” “ᴵ ᵍᵘᵉˢˢ ᴵ ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵈⁱⁿⁿᵉʳ…” ˢᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉ ᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ʰᵉ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ‧ “ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᵈⁱᵈ ʸᵒᵘ…” “ᴵ ᵖʳᵉᵖᵃʳᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃˢ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵉʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ…” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ’ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ᵗʰᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ʷᵒʳᵈⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ’ʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ʷᵉʳᵉⁿ’ᵗ ᵘᵖ, ⁿᵒᵗ ᵘᵖ ʸᵉᵗ?” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵃⁿˣⁱᵒᵘˢˡʸ ᵃʷᵃⁱᵗᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ʳᵉˢᵖᵒⁿˢᵉ‧ “ᴬʰ, ʷᵉˡˡ ᵗʰᵃⁿᵏˢ?” ᴴᵉ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉʷʰᵃᵗ ᵇᵃˢʰᶠᵘˡ‧ ᔆᵘᵈᵈᵉⁿˡʸ, ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ʳⁱⁿᵍⁱⁿᵍ‧ “ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ᵉᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ; ᴵ’ˡˡ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ!” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᵍᵉⁿᵗˡʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵖⁱᶜᵏ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧ “ᴱʰ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ, ʸᵒ ᵍᵒⁿⁿᵃ ᵃᵗᵗᵉⁿᵈ ʷᵒʳᵏ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ? ᴵ ⁿᵉᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ᶠʳʸᶜᵒᵒᵏ…” ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ; ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ‧ “ᵂᵉˡˡ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ…” “ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ, ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ ⁿᵉᵉᵈˢ ʸᵉ!” ᔆᵒ ᵈⁱᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ “ᴵ’ᵐ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵃ ᵇⁱᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢʰᵃᵏʸ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵒ ᵐʸ ʲᵒᵇ ʷᵉˡˡ?” ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ˢᵃⁱᵈ‧ “ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ʳⁱᵈ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ⁱⁿᵛᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵐᵘˡᵃᵉ‧” “ᵂᵉˡˡ, ᴵ’ᵐ ʰᵃᵖᵖʸ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ…” “ᴴᵃᵛᵉ ʸᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ᵖⁱᵖˢᑫᵘᵉᵃᵏ, ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ?” ᴴᵉ ˡᵒᵒᵏᵉᵈ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵃᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ “ᴸᵒᵗˢ ᵒᶠ ᵗⁱᵐᵉˢ!” ᴸᵃᵘᵍʰᵉᵈ ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ‧ “ᴵ ᵐᵉᵃⁿᵗ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᶜᶜⁱᵈᵉⁿᵗ!” “ᴬʷ, ⁱᵗ’ˢ ⁿⁱᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃʳ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜᵃʳᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ…” “ᴵ…” “ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉᵈ ᵇʸᵉ!” to be cont. pt. 4

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 9 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Plankton stands up and storms off to the bedroom, his steps heavy. The door slams shut behind him, the finality of it echoing through the house. Chip's eyes fill with tears, and he sinks to the floor, feeling like he's failed his dad. Karen sighs. "Chip," she says, her voice soft as she sits beside him. "Your dad's just really sensitive about his autism." She takes his hand. "You have to remember, it's not just something he can turn on or off." Chip nods, feeling small. He didn't mean to upset his dad. He just wanted to help, like Timmy had helped him. He thinks back to their lunchtime chat, Timmy's hands flapping freely as he talked about his 'superpowers'. It had made his dad's stims seem less like a 'problem' and more like something unique, something to celebrate. But now, Chip isn't so sure. He looks up at Karen, his eyes wet. "But Mom," he says, his voice cracking. "Today at school, I met a kid named Timmy. He said he's autistic, and gave me this book. He said this book makes him feel like a superhero. He told me the book made him feel seen, understood." Karen nods, listening intently as Chip speaks. "And I thought...maybe it could help Dad feel the same way," Chip continues, his voice trailing off. Karen's gaze softens. "You had good intentions, Chip," she says, squeezing his hand. "But everyone's different, even those with autism. What might help one person might not be the same for another. It's like a fingerprint—each one is unique." "But Timmy said it helps him," Chip argues, his voice small. Karen nods. "And that's wonderful for Timmy," she says. "But your dad's experience is his own. He's not as comfortable with it as Timmy might be. Autism is like a mosaic, Chip. Each piece is different, and they all come together to make a unique picture." She pauses, searching his eyes. "You can't always assume what works for one will work for another." Chip wipes his screen with the back of his hand, feeling a wave of guilt wash over him. He didn't mean to make his dad feel worse. He just wanted to share something positive. "What do we do?" He asks, his voice cracking. Karen takes a deep breath. "We need to talk to him," she says. "We need to tell him that we love him exactly as he is, without conditions." She stands. They approach the bedroom door, Karen's hand on the knob. "But remember," she whispers to Chip. "He's fragile right now. We have to be gentle." They step inside, the room dimly lit. Plankton's lying on the bed, his back to them, his body still. Chip's heart squeezes. This isn't the invincible scientist he's always known. This is his dad, a man who's been hurt by misunderstanding. Karen clears her throat. "Plankton, we need to talk." Plankton doesn't move. "I'm sorry, Karen," he says, his voice muffled by the pillow. "I just don't have the energy for this right now." Chip's heart aches. He's never seen his dad so defeated. He takes a deep breath, steeling himself for what he's about to say. "Dad," he starts, his voice soft. "I'm sorry." Plankton's body tenses but doesn't turn around. "I didn't mean to make fun of you or make light of your autism. I just wanted to show you that someone else out there is just li—" "I don't want to be like someone else," Plankton says, his voice muffled by the pillow. "I just want to be me." Chip swallows hard, his eyes prickling with tears. "But Dad," he says, "you are like someone else. You're like my new friend. His name's Timmy, an-" "I don't know or care WHO Timmy is," Plankton cuts in, his voice sharp. "I'm Plankton." He rolls over to face them, his eye red. "I'm not a kid playing pretend. I'm a grown man trying to navigate a world that's always two steps ahead of me." Chip feels his heart crack. He'd never thought of it that way. "But what if you could see it as a strength?" He asks, his voice hopeful. "What if instead of trying to keep up, you could be the one setting the p-" "Setting the pace?" Plankton's voice is bitter. "How can I set the pace when I can't even keep up?" His words hang in the air, each one a sharp reminder of his daily battles. Chip feels his throat constrict. "Dad, I'm sorry," he says, his voice breaking. "I just wanted to help, like, you see my friend Tim-" "I don't need to be compared to a child's book! And what does 'Timmy' have to do wi-" "It's not just a book, Dad," Chip says, his voice firm. "It's about understanding that autism isn't a flaw or a joke, it's just...part of who you are. And Timmy, he's like a superhero because he's found a way to turn his challenge into strengths, on account of he has autis–" But Plankton cuts him off with a sharp laugh. "A strength?" He asks, his voice laced with sarcasm. "What strength? My inability to not get overwhelmed by sounds and lights? My inability to read people's faces?" He sits up, his frustration palpable. "Don't you get it, Chip? This isn't something I can just 'turn on' or 'turn off'. It's my reality, my every day. And Timmy...Timmy might be fine with playing games about his, but I'm NOT." His voice is heavy with pain. Chip's heart feels like it's in his throat. He's never seen his dad like this, so raw and exposed. He opens his mouth to speak but nothing comes out. Plankton's words hang in the air like a challenge, demanding to be heard. "Dad," he finally says, his voice trembling. "I'm sorry if I made it seem like a joke. I just...I just wanted to show you that you're not alone." He holds up the book, his hands shaking. "Timmy's not alone either. And neither are you." He takes a deep breath. "Maybe we could find our own way to make your autism feel like a su—" But Plankton's had enough. He stands, his small frame trembling with frustration. "I don't need your pity, Chip," he says, his voice sharp. "I need you to understand that this isn't some game. This is my life!" With a sudden burst of strength, Plankton snatches the book from Chip's hands. Chip's eyes widen in shock, watching his dad's anger manifest physically as he tears the pages one by one. "This is not who I am!" Plankton says, his voice shaking with each ripping sound. "I'm not a character for you to relate to or feel good about!" Karen stands there, frozen, her hand covering her mouth in shock as Plankton throws the book across the room. The silence that follows is deafening. Chip's screen is wet with tears, his chest tight. He's never seen his dad this way before— so raw and so hurt. He swallows hard, trying to find the right words. "Dad, I--" But Plankton holds up his hand. "Just...just go," he says, his voice hoarse. Chip picks up the torn book on his way out.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 6 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Plankton's mouth moves, but the words come out as a jumble. "Purple...dog...car... no, not a car," he says, his expression vacant. Chip swallows hard, not knowing how to respond to the senseless words. Karen watches from the sidelines, her eyes filled with understanding and love. This is her Plankton—her quirky, lovable husband, whose brain operates on a different frequency. She sees the fear in Chip's screen and knows he's scared, but she also knows that understanding is key. "It's ok, Dad," Chip whispers, his voice trembling. Plankton's hands move erratically, as if trying to capture invisible objects. "Yellow...box... closed...open," he mumbles. Chip listens, his heart racing. "Dad, can you hear me?" he whispers. Plankton's hand darts out, flailing through the air. "Butterfly," he says, his voice a mix of wonder and frustration. "There are no butterflies here," Chip says. Karen smiles reassuringly. "It's ok. Let's just be with him." Plankton's words continue. "Plankton," Plankton murmurs, "the world is spinning—no, it's just me spinning." He laughs, his eye unfocused. Chip swallows a lump in his throat. "Dad," Chip whispers, "are you seeing things?" Karen sighs, knowing this is a way his brain copes with pain and overstimulation. "Sometimes his thoughts come out all mixed up," she says, her voice a gentle explanation. "It's like his brain's way of telling stories when it's overwhelmed." "Ball...bounce...high," Plankton murmurs, his hand mimicking the action of throwing an invisible object. "No, Dad," Chip says, trying to keep his voice soothing. "No bouncing here." He looks to Karen for guidance. "It's alright," she says, her eyes never leaving Plankton's. "Just talk to him calmly. It's his way of making sense of things." Chip nods, his voice barely above a breath. "Ball," he repeats back to his father, trying to enter his world. Plankton's eye snaps to him, a spark of recognition lighting his gaze. "Yes," he murmurs. "Ball...bounce." Karen watches them, her heart swelling with pride. Chip is learning, adapting. He's becoming a bridge between the worlds of the neurotypical and neurodivergent. "Red ball," Plankton says, his hand rising and falling as if tossing a non-existent sphere. "No, blue ball," he corrects, the words tumbling out in a rush. Chip nods, playing along. "You're playing catch, Dad?" he asks, his voice softer now. Plankton's gaze flickers to him, confused. "Catch," he whispers, his hand moving in slow arcs. "But it's not a ball," Chip says, his voice filled with gentle persuasion. "It's just a game you're playing in your head.." Plankton's hand stops, his gaze locking onto Chip, a hint of irritation flitting across his features. "What?" Plankton asks, his voice disoriented as his surroundings finally come back to him. Chip swallows, unsure of what to say. He wants to help, but feels frustrated by his dad's behavior. "You know, Dad, when you talk like that, it's hard to understand," he says, his voice carrying a touch of exasperation. "You're not really playing catch, are you?" Plankton's eye narrows slightly, his movements stilling. "It's not real to anyone else!" Chip exclaims, his voice louder than he intended. Karen gives him a sharp look, a reminder to keep his voice down. "Chip," she says, her tone a mixture of warning and patience. "You know his autism makes things different for him." But Chip's thinking of the fidget toy, of the way his dad snatched it from him. He feels a surge of anger, a feeling he's not used to having towards his dad. "I know, but why does he have to be like this?" Chip asks, his voice a mix of frustration and hurt. "Why can't he just be normal?" Karen's gaze softens. "Chip, everyone's normal is different. Your dad's brain just works in a unique way. It's not wrong, just di-" "But it's annoying!" Chip interrupts, his voice cracking. "Everything's always about his needs!" Plankton's hand, which had been still, starts to twitch again. Karen sighs. "It's not about needs, it's about his comfort, Chip. And right now, he--" "But what about my comfort?" Chip retorts, his voice loud in the quiet room. "What about when he yells or throws things or gets upset because of tiny stuff?" He's close to tears, his emotions a tangled knot. "Dad, everything's not about you," he says, not meaning to sound harsh. But the words hang in the air like accusations. "Everyone has to deal with things," he continues. "Why can't you? You don't really have it that bad. Do you honestly think your wife, my mother, actually enjoys all of this? I can't even play with my friends because you get too overwhelmed! And for what? Because someone might laugh too loud or because the TV's on too high? Do you know how embarrassing it is to have to leave because you can't handle a science fair?" Karen's face falls. She's heard Chip's frustrations before, but never so raw and out in the open. Plankton's eye darts around the room, his mind racing to understand. He's missed the context, but the anger in Chip's voice is clear. "Chip," she starts, her voice steady. "Your dad's brain is just wired differently. It's not his fault." But Chip's on a roll. "I know, I know," he says, his frustration mounting. "But it's like he doesn't even try to get better. Why can't he just ignore it like everyone else? Why can't we take him to a doctor who can fix him?" Plankton's hand stutters to a stop, his gaze focusing on Chip with a mix of hurt and confusion. "Fix me?" he repeats, his voice tiny. "What do you mean?" "I don't know," Chip says, his shoulders slumping. "Just... make it so you're not always in pain or scared or...weird." He can't look at his dad, his eyes burning with unshed tears. "Living like this, with all your autistic stuff, it's just..." He trails off, his voice cracking. "It's not worth it." Plankton's hand starts to shake. "W-what?" He asks, his voice shaky. Karen's heart breaks for him, for the hurt that's clearly etched on his face. "Chip," she starts, but his words cut her off. "It's like you don't even see us," Chip says, his voice filled with pain. "You're in your own world, and we're just here, trying to figure out how to help you." Plankton's expression is a mask of confusion and sadness. "Did my mom marry you before or after she found out you're autistic?" Chip asks, his voice sharp with accusation. Karen's eyes widen in shock. "Chip!" She says, her voice firm. "That's not how we talk about it. And I knew before.." But Chip's hurt, has turned to anger, and he's not listening. "But it's true!" Chip insists, his voice rising. "You always have to be in charge, Dad, always have to have it your way. It's like you don't even see us!" Plankton's face pales, the words stinging like bees. "Chip, please," Karen interjects, her voice pleading. But Chip can't stop, the frustration of years boiling over. "Why can't you just be like everyone else? Why do you always have to be so difficult?" Plankton's hand drops to his side, his eye filling with sadness. "I'm sor—" Karen steps in, her voice firm. "Chip, that's enough. Your dad is doing his best." But Chip's anger is like a storm, unyielding. "Best? What about our best? What about us? It's always about you, Dad!" Plankton's face contorts, the pain in his heart as sharp as the pain in his mouth. "Dad, we don't need you," Chip says, his words a knife to Plankton's soul. "Chip," Karen says, her voice sharp. "You need to go to your room. Now." She points to the door, her eyes filled with a mixture of anger and sadness. Chip's shoulders slump, but he doesn't argue, retreating to his room. Plankton's gaze follows him, his mind reeling. He's heard the frustration before, but never so bluntly. Karen sighs, exhaustion etching lines on her face. "I know it's hard, babe," she says, stroking Plankton's swollen cheek. "But Chip's just trying to underst--" But Plankton shakes his head, his voice a whisper. "No, no. He's right," he says, his eye brimming with unshed tears. "I'm the one who's always in the way." He pulls his hand away, his gaze dropping to his lap. Karen's eyes are filled with a mix of anger and despair. "Don't say that," she whispers fiercely. "You're not a burden." But Plankton's thoughts are racing, his stims abandoned. "Look at what I've done," he says, his voice breaking. "I've made you leave things, I've made him hate me." Karen's grip on his hand tightens. "He doesn't hate you," she insists, her voice firm.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 8 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! By the next week, Plankton's completely recovered from the wisdom teeth ordeal. And Chip's now ready to attend the new school. The first day of school is a flurry of nerves and excitement. Chip puts on his best smile, his backpack bulging with supplies. Plankton's in the kitchen, his usual self, rambling about his latest invention. Karen's voice floats from the hallway. "Remember, Chip. If you see someone who's different, don't stare or make fun. Just be kind." Chip nods before heading out the door. At school, Chip notices a boy in his class, Timmy, who flaps his hands and makes noises during storytime. Chip feels a pang of recognition—his dad does that too when he's excited. He watches as Timmy's classmates giggle, whispering behind their hands. Chip's heart squeezes with a mix of empathy and sorrow. He approaches Timmy at lunch. "Hi," he says, his voice tentative. Timmy looks up, his eyes wide. "You're new," Timmy says, his voice high-pitched. "Yes," Chip replies with a small smile. "My name's Chip." Timmy bobs his head, his hands still moving. "What's wrong with your hands?" Chip asks, his voice soft. Timmy looks down, his cheeks flushing. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude," Chip adds quickly. But Timmy smiles, showing a gap in his teeth. "It's okay," he says. "I have autism." Chip's eyes widen, his mind racing back to his dad's stims. "It's just how I show I'm happy." Timmy's words resonate with Chip, and he feels a sudden connection. "My dad has autism too," he confides. Timmy's eyes light up. "Really?" He asks, his movements ceasing for a moment. "Yeah," Chip says, taking a seat next to Timmy. "Sometimes it's hard, but he's pretty cool. But it's also really tough for him." Timmy nods, his hands resuming their gentle flapping. "It's not easy," he says. "But us autistics are like superheroes, you know? Our brains just work a bit differently." Chip can't help but smile at the analogy. "Yeah," he says, "like you guys have special powers." Timmy's face lights up. "Exactly!" He exclaims. "And sometimes, our powers can be really helpful. Like, I'm really good at math and remembering stuff." He beams with pride. Chip feels a twinge of understanding, remembering his dad's obsession with the Krabby Patty formula. "My dad's good at inventions," he says. "But sometimes, his brain can get really, really overwhelmed." Timmy nods. "Some days, my head does too," he says. The bell rings, signaling the end of lunch. Chip and Timmy quickly exchange numbers, promising to talk more. As Chip heads to his next class, his mind is a whirlwind. He's always known his dad was different, but seeing someone his age with the same challenges brings a new perspective. In the classroom, he can't concentrate. Plankton's words echo in his mind: "I'm not enough. I'll never be enough." He feels guilty for his earlier frustrations, for not understanding the depth of his dad's struggle. During recess, Chip finds Timmy alone. Timmy's eyes scan the playground, his hands still. "You okay?" Chip asks. Timmy looks up. "Yes. Hey you know what helps me?" Timmy asks, his voice hopeful. "I make fun of my autism, like it's a superpower. It makes me feel better when people laugh with me." Chip looks confused. "How do you mean?" Timmy grins. "I pretend my flapping hands are like wings, or my loud noises are like sonic booms. It makes the other kids laugh, and it helps me feel like I made them happy. And one called me 'Stimmy' instead of 'Timmy' which is okay, because it's a part of me! I also like it when people ask me about it. It makes me feel seen. Make it like a game, or something.." Timmy says. Chip thinks about this, his heart racing. He's never considered turning his dad's stims into something fun or cool. It's always been a thing to just ignore. But now, seeing Timmy's joy, he wonders if maybe there's another way. He makes a mental note to ask his dad about his favorite superheroes, thinking maybe they can find a way to make his stims more like superpowers. Timmy smiles. "For my birthday I got this book.. I've another copy!" Timmy says, interrupting himself as he gives Chip a book. "It's a fictional story about a guy like me, but he's got superpowers because of his autism. Maybe your dad will like it." Chip looks at the book titled "AUSOME AUsomeness" and smiles, his curiosity piqued. "Thanks, Timmy," he says, tucking it into his bag. "I'll show it to him." Timmy nods, his eyes bright with excitement. "You know, sometimes when I feel sad or overwhelmed, I just pretend I'm that hero. It helps me." Chip nods, his mind racing with ideas. He's never seen autism as a superpower before. Could this be a way to help his dad feel more like the hero he's always been to him? When Chip gets home, he finds Plankton in the living room. He sets his bag down by the couch as he greets his dad, and Karen, who's in the kitchen. "Hi, Mom; Hi, Dad!" Plankton's eye lights up at the sight of him. "How was school?" He asks, curious as to how Chip's first day went. "It was ok," Chip says, his mind still racing with thoughts of Timmy and his own father's autism. "I met a kid like you, Dad." Plankton's face falls slightly. "What do you mean?" He asks. "I mean," Chip starts, his voice shaky. "He had what you... I'll just show you the book!" He pulls out "AUSOME AUsomeness" from his bag, handing it to Plankton with excitement. Plankton looks at the cover, his eye narrowing as he opens it. "See, Dad?" Chip says, pointing to a part where the character uses his hand flapping to take flight. "It's like you w---" But Plankton's face is a mask of anger and hurt. "What's wrong?" Chip asks, his heart racing. Plankton slams the book shut. "Don't you dare," he says, his voice low and dangerous. "Don't you dare patronize me, Chip." He stands up, his hands shaking. "I'm not some comic book character to be made fun of or turned into a joke!" His voice echoes through the house, the pain in it palpable. Karen rushes in, alarmed by the sudden outburst. "Plankton, what's wrong?" She asks, her eyes darting between the two. "This," Plankton says, waving the book. "This is what you think of me?" The anger in his voice is sharp. "How could you, Chip?" He asks, his voice trembling. "How could you think I'd want to be seen like some unrealistically childish hero?" The room is tense, the air thick with emotions. Karen's eyes dart between her husband and son, trying to gauge the situation. Chip's face falls, the joy from his new friendship with Timmy dissipating. Timmy's autistic and loved it, so why doesn't Chip's autistic father.. "I'm sorry," he stammers, his voice small. "I just thought...it might help." But Plankton's anger doesn't waver. "You thought turning me into a caricature would make it better?" He asks, his voice laced with sarcasm. "Is that what you think of me?" Chip's eyes fill with tears as he watches his dad's pain unfold. "Dad, I don't underst--" "No," Plankton cuts him off. "You DON'T understand. You think it's fun to play pretend with something that's a daily struggle for me?" His voice breaks. "You think making it a game will just make it go away?" He throws the book across the room, where it hits the wall with a thud. Chip's eyes follow the book, his heart sinking. He didn't mean to make his dad feel this way. "But a new friend of mine said--" "I don't care what some stranger said!" Plankton interrupts, his voice rising. "This is my life, Chip! My struggle!" His hands are shaking as he clutches the back of the couch. Karen steps in. "Let's talk this out," she says, her voice a gentle whisper. "We're all on the sa-" "No!" Plankton snaps, cutting her off. He turns to Chip, his eye boring into his son's. "You think my autism is a game? You think I can just pretend it's a superpower and poof, everything's fine?" His voice cracks with each word. "You don't get it. You don't get what it's like to have a brain that fights you every second of every day." His hands are in fists now, his knuckles white. Chip feels like he's been punched in the gut. "Dad, please," he whispers, his voice shaking. "I just wanted to...I don't know, make it better. Make you feel...happy." Plankton sits back down, his shoulders slumped. "Happy?" Plankton repeats. "You think making a joke out of it makes me happy?" Chip feels like he's walking on eggshells. "No, Dad," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. "I just...wanted to share something that made us feel better." He looks down at his own hands, which are now trembling. "I just want you to be happy too."

sh🇸𝄃𝄃𝄂𝄂𝄀𝄁𝄃𝄂𝄂𝄃

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 17 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! "I-I just want to understand," Krabs says, his voice quavering. "I've never...I mean, I thought you were just being...you know, you." He fumbles for words, feeling the weight of his ignorance. "But now I see you're more than just a nuisance." But Plankton doesn't react, lost in his sensory cocoon. Karen watches the interaction with a sad smile. "Plankton, Krabs is trying to reach out to you," she says gently. "He wants to be a part of your world." Plankton's grip on the octopus doesn't loosen, but his eye moves from the toy to Krabs, then back again. He's used to being misunderstood, his autism often a source of frustration and isolation. But now, here's his enemy, trying to understand? Krabs clears his throat, his eyes searching Plankton's face for any sign of acknowledgment. "What...what do you say when you repeat those words?" He asks, his voice careful, tentative. "Is there a pattern, or...?" He's desperate for a clue, a way to enter Plankton's world. Plankton's eye narrows, his body tensing. "It's not for you," he murmurs, his voice barely above a whisper. He clutches the octopus even tighter, as if it's the only thing keeping him tethered to his own reality. Krabs leans back, his claws clutching at his chest. "I just want to help," he says, his voice earnest. "I've hurt you so many times, and I don't want to do it again." Plankton's gaze remains on his octopus, but his posture relaxes slightly. It's clear he hears Krabs, even if he doesn't respond. Karen smiles softly, recognizing the sincerity in Krabs' voice. It's a start, a tentative step towards understanding. Mr. Krabs watches him, his claws still hovering over the sensory box. "Plankton," he starts, his voice soft and cautious. "I know I've been a...well, not a good friend. But I want to be better." He selects a fidget spinner from the box, twirling it slowly. "Can you tell me what this does?" But Plankton doesn't answer. "I don't mean to pry," he says, his voice sincere. "But I can't help but wonder, Plankton. What's it like?" He twirls the fidget spinner again, his gaze never leaving Plankton. "To be...different?" Plankton's eye flickers to Krabs, his expression unreadable. For a moment, it seems like he might speak. But then he shakes his head, his words lost in the maelstrom of his thoughts. "Echo...echolal... lal...la..." Krabs sets the fidget spinner down, his heart sinking. He doesn't know what he's doing, doesn't know how to bridge this gap. But he's determined to try. "What about the noises you make?" He asks, his voice gentle. "They're not just sounds, are th-" But Plankton cuts him off, his voice sharp. "It's not for you to use or to understand." There's a challenge in his tone, a barrier that Krabs feels he can't cross. He pauses, his gaze shifting to Karen. Her eyes are understanding, but firm. "Let him be, Krabs," she says. "This is his way of coping. It's not for us to interrupt." Krabs nods, his claws dropping to his sides. "I just want to help," he murmurs, his voice low. "To be there fo—" But Plankton's gaze is still on the octopus, his voice distant. "It's not for you to understand," he says, his tone final. "It's mine." Krabs' eyes fill with a newfound respect. He's always been so focused on his own gain, on his own needs, that he's never truly considered Plankton's perspective. "I'm sorry," he whispers, his voice hoarse. "I didn't mean to..." He trails off, not knowing what to say. Karen nods, her hand resting on Plankton's shoulder. "It's ok," she says, her voice a soothing balm. "We're all learning." Krabs sighs, his eyes never leaving Plankton's distant gaze, when Plankton starts to vocally stim. "Hmms.." "What's that you're doing?" Krabs interrupts. Karen's eyes widen, and she quickly intervenes. "It's Plankton's way of self-regulating. It's important for him to do this without interruptions. His stims are personal, and it's not our place to question them," Karen explains, her voice firm yet understanding. Krabs nods, his eyes still on Plankton's fidgeting fingers. "I just want to...connect," he whispers, his voice filled with longing. Karen nods, her expression softening. "I know, but when he's like this, it's best to let him be." She looks at Krabs, her eyes filled with understanding. "But there are other ways to connect, if you're truly willing to listen." Krabs leans in, his eyes bright with curiosity. Plankton's eye droops. "Just...be...quiet." Krabs nods, his claws still. The room is a cocoon of silence, save for the distant hum of Bikini Bottom. Plankton's hands still, and Karen knows he's getting exhausted. Plankton's head leans into her side, his antennae drooping. "I'm tired," he murmurs, his voice a tiny echo of its usual pitch. Karen wraps her arm around him, his body fitting into the comfortable curve of her embrace. "It's ok," she whispers, stroking his back. Plankton's eyelid flutters closed, his breathing deepening into the rhythm of sleep. His body relaxes against hers, his trust in her unspoken but palpable. She's his safe haven, the one who gets him in a way no one else does. Karen presses a gentle kiss to his forehead. His grip on the octopus loosens, the plush tentacles now lying limp in his hand. Krabs watches, his heart aching for the enemy he's come to care for. He can't help but feel like he's intruding on a sacred moment, one that's been building for years of missed understandings and hurtful words. As Plankton's breathing deepens into sleep, Karen whispers to Krabs, "You've tried to connect today. That's more than he's ever had from anyone outside this family." Krabs nods, his gaze still on the sleeping Plankton. "But I want to do more," he insists. "I want to be...I don't know, a...friend?" Karen looks at him, surprise and hope mingling in her expression. "That's a big step, Krabs," she says. "But if you're really willing to learn, to be patient and respectful, then maybe we can start there." Krabs nods, his heart swelling with a newfound determination. "I'll do anything," he says. Karen smiles, her screen shining with gratitude. "Then listen," she says, her voice barely a whisper. "Plankton's autism isn't a puzzle to solve or a challenge to overcome. It's just part of who he is." She strokes Plankton's antennae gently. "And his stims, his words—they're his way of saying 'I'm here, and I need you to be here with me.'" Krabs nods, his understanding growing. He watches as Karen carefully moves Plankton's head to his pillow, his body now fully relaxed in sleep as she tucks him in. The plush octopus is still in his hand. "Just be present," she repeats. "Learn to listen without judgment, to see his world without trying to change it." Krabs nods, his expression earnest. It's a concept that seems so simple, yet so profound. He's always been about the endgame, the victory. But here, in this small, dimly-lit room, he sees the true prize: connection. Krabs watches as Karen pulls the covers up to Plankton's chin, his eye still closed as he snuggles into the bed. Krabs' mind races with thoughts. Autistic Plankton. It's a revelation that shakes him to his very core, challenging every assumption he's ever had about his enemy. He's not just a nuisance anymore; he's a friend in pain, trying to navigate a world that doesn't always make sense. He looks at Plankton's sleeping form, the soft rise and fall of his chest, and feels a pang of regret for all the times he's laughed at or dismissed his behaviors. "I'm sorry," he whispers, his voice barely audible. "I never knew." Plankton's only response is a soft snore, oblivious to the monumental shift happening in the room. Krabs sits back in the chair, his thoughts racing. How many times has he misunderstood, how many jokes at Plankton's expense were at the cost of his pain? It's a stark contrast to the loud, chaotic world of the Krusty Krab. He watches the rise and fall of Plankton's chest, the soft snores that punctuate the silence. There's a peace to him, a vulnerability that he's never seen before. It's humbling, frightening even, to think about the depth of emotions and experiences that Plankton has kept hidden beneath his bravado. Krabs' gaze moves to Karen, who's sitting on the edge of the bed, her hand resting on Plankton's. Her expression is a mix of love and protectiveness, a fierce motherly instinct that makes his own heart ache. He clears his throat, his claws awkwardly fidgeting. "What about the seizures?" He asks, his voice hushed. "What can I do if he has one?" Karen looks at him, her eyes filled with appreciation. "You've already done the most important thing," she says, her voice soothing. "You've recognized his needs and are willing to learn." Krabs nods, his mind whirling with questions. He's never felt so out of his depth, but the desire to be there for Plankton is stronger than any treasure he's ever pursued. He watches the soft rise and fall of Plankton's chest, his snores a comforting background to their hushed conversation. Karen reaches out, her hand gently covering Krabs' claw. "If he has a seizure, stay calm," she instructs. "Make sure he's safe, nothing around to hurt him. And talk to him softly, let him know you're there." Krabs nods, his gaze never leaving Plankton. He doesn't know what it's like to navigate a world where even the most mundane experiences can be overwhelming, where words can be a shield and a prison. But he wants to know. He wants to be a person who can offer comfort, who can make Plankton feel less alone.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 3 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Plankton's mouth feels like it's been stuffed with cotton, his tongue thick. He tries to form words. "Ma...ma..." he whispers, his voice a slur. Karen's eyes light up at the sound. "You're ok," she says, her voice a balm to his frayed nerves. "You had your teeth out. You might feel funny for a little while." He looks at Karen, his eye searching hers. "Wh...wh...whath?" he stammers, his speech jumbled. Karen leans closer, her smile reassuring. "Your wisdom teeth, Plankton. They took them out so you won't have any trouble with them later." But the words don't make sense to him, his brain still fuzzy from the anesthesia. He tries to speak again. "Wi...wis...wis..." he stammers. Karen nods. "Wisdom teeth," Karen repeats slowly. "They're out now. You're all done!" The words swirl in Plankton's head, not quite making sense. He feels his mouth, the cottony feeling replaced by the pressure of gauze. He giggles. "My moufs fweel funmy," he says, his words slurred. Karen laughs softly. "It's because of the surgery, sweetie. Your mouth is healing." She coos. "I fink I sownd funny," he says, his eye glinting with mirth. The nurse returns, checking his vitals. "How are you feeling?" she asks. Plankton looks up, his eye glassy. "Wibidy wobidy," he slurs, his speech a mess of sounds and syllables. Karen can't help but laugh, despite the situation. "You're doing great," she says with love for his confused silliness. The nurse chuckles, too. "It's the anesthesia," she explains. "It'll wear off soon." His gaze darts to his own fingers. "Wook at my fingews," he says to Karen, his speech slurred from the anesthesia. Karen nods, smiling. "Oh yeah?" Plankton nods, his cognitive abilities still under the fog. "Yeth," he slurs, trying to sit up. "Take it easy," she says. "You're still woozy." The room feels like it's spinning as Plankton tries to sit up, his brain struggling to keep up with his body's movements. "Wha...?" he mumbles, his gaze unfocused. But Plankton's curiosity wins out. He reaches up to touch a finger to his mouth, feeling the thickness of the gauze. "Fingews," he repeats, his voice still slurred. Karen laughs with affection. "It's ok honey," she says. "You're doing great." Plankton looks around the room, his eye still unfocused. "Wheh...wheah awe we?" he mumbles. The nurse explains patiently, "You're in the recovery room at the dentist's office. You just had your wisdom teeth removed." But the words don't quite register, and he nods slowly, his mind racing with confusion and curiosity with wonder, taking in the world as if seeing it for the first time. The colors, the shapes, the sounds—everything is fresh and new. He looks at his hands as if it's an alien appendage. "Wook ath dis," he says to Karen, his voice a mix of amazement and bewilderment. His fingers spread wide, then close into a fist, then open again. "Wook whath I can do!" Karen swells with love. It's like watching him discover the world anew, like a baby seeing his own hands for the first time. She can't help but smile at his innocent fascination. The nurse nods at Karen. "You can take him home now. Just make sure he rests and takes it easy." Karen nods, her smile never leaving her screen. She helps Plankton up. "Hi," he says, his voice a slurred mumble. As they make their way to the car, Plankton's steps are unsteady, his body still fighting the remnants of the anesthesia. He looks around with wonderment, as if seeing the world in a new light. "Mowah?" he asks, pointing to the sky. Karen laughs gently. "It's the sun, honey. It's ok." Plankton nods, his mind trying to piece together the puzzle of his reality. "We're gonna pick up Chip from the park. He's with Hanna.." "Chip...Chip, Chip," he repeats, the word rolling off his tongue. The car ride is a blur of sounds and sensations that Plankton tries to filter out. He leans his head against the cool window, watching the world pass by in a haze. Karen keeps glancing back at him in the rearview mirror, amusement etched on her face. "You ok?" she asks. Plankton nods, his eye heavy. "Tiwed," he murmurs. "Try not to fall asleep," she says. "Because we're almost there." His eye drifts to the passing scenery. Trees whiz by. He counts the telephone poles, his slurred voice mumbling the numbers. "One, two, free, four..." "Almost there," Karen says. Plankton nods, his hand finding the seatbelt buckle, tracing its edges. "Five, sis, seb..." But alas, Plankton's efforts to stay alert are in vain. His lid flutters and his head nods. "Plankton, keep your eye open," Karen says, her voice a gentle reminder. But his body has other plans, succumbing to the sedative's embrace. "Wake up, Plankton," Karen says, a hint of laughter in her tone. She knows he can't help it. His slumber is deep, his snores a soft echo in the car. She watches him in the mirror, his face relaxed in sleep. It's a rare sight. Plankton's normally alert and active demeanor is replaced by a peaceful stillness that fills the car. The surgery was a success, yet the anesthesia has taken its toll. Karen pulls into the parking lot of the park, the sun casting a warm glow. "Wakey, wakey," she sings. Plankton's snores hitch, but his eye stays shut. She opens the car door and the chilly air fills the car, carrying with it the laughter of children playing. "Plankton," she calls, her voice gentle but firm. He stirs, his body protesting the interruption. "Chip?" he mumbles, his voice still thick with sleep. Karen laughs softly. "Yes, we're here to get Chip. Time to wake up." She reaches over and squeezes his hand. His eye blinks open, the pupil dilating as he takes in his surroundings. "Wha...?" he mumbles, his brain still fighting the anesthesia. Hanna and Chip look up as their car approaches. "What happened?" Chip asks as he gets in the car. Karen starts to answer, but Plankton's slurred interjection stops her. "Dey hook my teefs!" he says, his words a jumble. Chip's eyes widen. "He had his wisdom teeth out," Karen explains. Hanna looks at Plankton, her expression one of concern. "How are you feeling?" she asks. "Wibidy wobidy," he slurs. "Buh I dunno." Karen smiles. "So, we went to the dentist," she says, waving bye to Hanna. "They had to take his wisdom teeth out." Chip looks confused. "What does that mean, Mom?" He asks Karen. "Well Chip, your dad had some teeth that were gonna cause problems, so they took them out," Karen starts. "But the medicine they gave him makes him feel funny. It's like when you have a sleepover and wake up groggy." Chip nods. "What medicine?" He continues. Plankton tries to answer, but his speech is still slurred. "Dey gabe me sumpin' to sleep," he mumbles, his eye half-closed. "It's called anesthesia," Karen says, her voice calm and steady. "It's what helps people not feel pain during surgery." Chip nods, watching his dad with a mix of curiosity and concern. "But it makes him a bit loopy," Karen adds as they pull away. "Chip," Plankton starts. "Whath thad?" "It's my hand, Dad," Chip answers, confused. "Chip's hamv?" Plankton persists, his mind still fuzzy. Karen chuckles, seeing his curiosity piqued. "Chip's hamv?" Plankton repeats, his speech still slurred. Chip holds up his hand. "It's just a hand, Dad," he says. Karen laughs. "It's his hand, Plankton. It's ok. You're just a bit loopy." "Wook ath the clows," Plankton says, lazily pointing at the clouds. Karen smiles. "They're just clouds," she says. Plankton giggles, his eye glazed with a childlike wonder. Karen knows this phase won't last, but she cherishes it.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 5 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Karen sits on the bed, her presence a comforting weight. "Would you like me to stay?" she asks, her voice gentle. Plankton nods, his body still tight with pain. He closes his eye, his mind racing with the discomfort. He tries to focus on his breath, in and out, in and out. But the throb in his mouth is a constant reminder of agony that threatens to overwhelm. Then, Plankton starts to talk to himself to self-soothe. "It's safe," he whispers. "Can water's just fine." Karen watches him, knowing this is a way of regaining control, his mind trying to find peace in order to rest. She knows that the pain, the sensory assault, the confusion—it's all too much. But she also knows that he has the willpower to push through. "Was do it" Plankton whispers to himself. "I told him but he didn't listen," he murmurs, his thoughts racing with the memory of the fidget toy. "It's my fault," he adds. "Not my place to correct him, do not touch." His words are a jumble of regret and frustration. "It's okay," Plankton says again. "The healing safe. It's just a feeling." He repeats this mantra, his breath evening out. Karen can see the tension in his shoulders easing, his grip on the ice pack loosening as his body relaxes. "You're doing great," Karen whispers. "Just rest." And with that, Plankton's body gives in to the call of sleep, his breaths trailing off into soft snores. Karen watches her husband with a mix of love and sadness. Chip lingers by the door, his curiosity piqued. He wonders if his dad's autism is the reason behind it. With tentative steps, Chip enters the room. Karen takes his hand in hers, and he follows her out of the room and in to the hallway. "Mom," he starts, his voice barely a whisper. "Why is Dad autistic?" Karen looks down at him, her expression thoughtful. "Well, Chip," she says, her voice soft. "Your dad was born that way." Chip nods. "But w---" "Autism is something that develops in the brain before birth," Karen continues. "It's like how some people are right-handed and others are left-handed. It's just how his brain is wired." Chip looks at her with a frown. "But why did Dad...?" "Why did it happen?" Karen finishes his question. She takes a deep breath, preparing to explain. "You see, sometimes during pregnancy or childbirth, something small can change you. When his mom was giving birth, his brain might have gotten a little squeezed and then not enough oxygen. It's just the way his brain grew because of that, that's all." Chip nods slowly, trying to understand. "So as dad was being born..." "Yes," Karen says, her voice soothing. "His brain was forming its connections, and that little squeeze changed the way his brain makes those connections. It's like if you're building a Lego castle and one piece gets bent. It doesn't mean the castle can't be amazing, it's just a tiny part of it that's a bit different." Chip looks up at his mom, his eyes wide. "But does that mean I could be like Dad if I squ--" "No, Chip," she says, cutting off his words gently. "It's not that simple. Autism is just nothing you can catch or change, and it's not something you need to be afraid of." Chip nods, his gaze still fixed on her. "But why does he get so upset sometimes?" Karen sighs. "Because the world can be a very overwhelming place for him, Chip. His brain picks up on every little thing— sounds, smells, sights—it's all so intense. And sometimes, those things get too much, and his brain can't keep up. It's like when you're playing a video game and the screen is flashing too fast—it's hard to focus." "But why does he get mad?" Chip persists. Karen kneels down to look him in the eye. "It's not that he's mad, honey. It's just his way of dealing with it. Imagine if you had a headache and someone was shining a bright light in your face—you'd want them to stop, right? It's like that, but with anything." Chip nods, understanding dawning. "So, when the fidget was making noise, it was like a headache for Dad?" Karen smiles. "Exactly. And when he tells you something is too much, it's not that he's upset with you—it's his brain telling him he needs a break." Plankton's snores from the bedroom remind them of the present. "Let's let Dad rest," Karen says, steering Chip towards his own room. "But what about his teeth?" Chip asks, his voice laced with worry. Karen's smile is reassuring. "They'll feel better soon, and we'll have to be extra gentle with him. No loud noises, no surprises. Ok?" Chip nods. In the quiet of the living room, Karen and Chip begin to set up a recovery area for Plankton—a space free from the chaos that could easily overwhelm his fragile state. They gather his favorite pillows, a soft blanket, and dim the lights. Chip wants to make sure his dad feels safe. On the coffee table, they lay out a tray with a glass of water. Karen knows that it's important not to startle Plankton, that he might need help getting up without disturbing his mouth. "Let's go to see him." Karen says. As they enter the bedroom, Plankton's snores have subsided into a gentle rhythm. Chip tiptoes over, his eyes wide. He's seen his dad tired before, but this is different. He looks smaller, somehow, more vulnerable. Gently, he touches his dad's arm.. Plankton's eye snaps open, his body jerking upright. The movement sends a shock of pain through his mouth. "Agh!" he yelps, his hands shooting up to clutch his cheeks. Chip jumps back, his eyes wide with alarm. "Dad!" He says loudly. But now Plankton's even more overwhelmed, and Karen notices his somewhat distant gaze. "Chip, remember what we talked about," Karen whispers. "Use a quiet voice." Chip nods and speaks more softly. "Dad, are you ok?" Plankton blinks, his mind racing. "Dad?" Chip tries again, his voice barely a murmur. Plankton's breath hitches. "It's me, Chip! You're home. You had surgery. Remembe---" But Plankton's eye darts around the room, his mind a swirling vortex of pain and disorientation as Chip talks to fast. Karen quickly moves to his side, her touch grounding him. "It's ok," she whispers. "You're safe. You're home." And then, he starts to talk to himself. "No...no...no...yes...yes...yes," he murmurs. Karen knows that he's retreated due to the overwhelm. It's happened before, where he's seemingly on autopilot. "Water's okay, can't talk right now," Plankton whispers to the empty space. His eye darts back to Chip, then to the ceiling. "No, no, no," he says again, his voice getting quieter. Karen's heart aches, seeing her husband so lost in his own head. She's seen this before—his autism taking control when the world was too much to handle. Chip however doesn't really understand. "Dad?" Chip whispers, his voice shaky. Plankton doesn't respond, his eye locked on the ceiling fan spinning above them. "It's ok," Karen says, her voice a soft reminder. "Sometimes his brain is on backup." She strokes his arm gently, knowing his semiconscious state isn't abnormal for him, as Plankton's monologue continues. "Need to count...one...two... three..." His voice trails off. Chip watches. "Is he ok?" He asks, his voice trembling. Karen nods. "This is his way of dealing with things," she whispers. "Let's just give him some time." Plankton's eye darts between them, his mouth forming words without thought. "Red...blue...green," he says, as if naming colors he's seeing in the air. "Big...small...far... near." Karen knows he's not really seeing anything, his mind a kaleidoscope of sensory input that's difficult to process. "Why?" Plankton asks no one in particular. "Will it be the one? It's just a feeling," he murmurs, trying to convince himself. Karen understands it's his brain's attempt to organize the overwhelming stimuli, but Chip looks on with a mix of concern and confusion. "It's ok," Chip whispers, his hand hovering over his dad's. He wants to help, but doesn't know how. Karen smiles at him, nodding. "You can talk to him, buddy. Just keep it low." Chip nods and sits on the edge of the bed. "Hey Dad," Chip says, his voice barely above a whisper. Plankton's eye flips over to him, but he doesn't seem to see him. "It's me, Chip. We're here," Chip says, trying to provide comfort.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 2 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Hanna leaned forward, her screen studying Plankton. "How can I he--" "Space," Karen said, cutting Hanna off gently. "Give him space. Sometimes, that's what he needs most." Hanna nods, leaning back. Chip watched his dad with a newfound understanding of his father's struggles. He felt a tug of guilt for not seeing it sooner, for not knowing how to support him. But he also felt a sense of awe at his mom's patience and knowledge. The room was quiet, save for the rhythmic sound of Plankton's rocking. Karen watched him, her eyes full of love and concern. She knew his brain was a maze of thoughts and sensations, trying to make sense of a world that was often too much. Hanna, now more cautious, observed from a distance, trying to understand the complexities of autism. She felt a newfound respect for Karen and the unspoken strength she had to navigate this life with her husband. "I'm sorry," Plankton finally managed to say, his voice still shaky. Karen looked over at him, seeing the turmoil in his eye. "You don't have to—" But her phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out and recognized the text from Plankton's dentist for a dental appointment to get his x-ray. "Hanna, I hate to ask," Karen started, looking apologetic. "But could you possibly keep an eye on Chip for a bit?" Hanna looked from Plankton to Karen. "Of course!" she said without a second thought. "What's going on?" Karen sighs. "I'll keep you updated, but Plankton needs to get x- rays at the dentist..." Plankton's eye snapped back to focus at the mention of dentists. Dentist visits had always been a challenge. But Karen was already thinking ahead. "It's ok honey," she soothed. "We'll make sure they know about yo--" She turned to Plankton to see an oncoming absence seizure. "Plankton, it's ok," she cooed, but it was too late. The world around him faded into a blur of lights and sounds, his body frozen in a state of overwhelm. Hanna watched, horrified, as Plankton's eye is now unblinking, his body unmoving. Hanna was still, gaze fixed on Plankton, fear etched on her screen. She'd never seen anything like this before. But Karen was in action, her movements swift and practiced. She knew exactly what to do. "You're ok, Plankton. You're just having an absence. It'll be over soon." Chip watched, his own fear mirroring Hanna's. But there was something else there, too: understanding. He knew his mom was right, that his dad would come back to them. The seizure passed, and Plankton blinked back to reality. "Let's get to this appointment." Karen says, helping him stand. When Karen arrives with Plankton to the dentist's office, the receptionist smiles brightly. "Hi, Mr. Plankton," she says, her voice chirpy and cheerful. Plankton flinches at the noise, his eye darting around the room, taking in every detail, every sound. The waiting room was a minefield of sensory assaults: the ticking clock, the humming of the lights, the rustle of magazines. Karen squeezes his hand gently, a silent reminder that she's there, that he's not alone. When they call his name, Plankton's grip tightens. The smell of antiseptic and the sight of the chair sends a tremor through his body. But Karen guides him through the door. In the sterile room, the dental hygienist is kind. "Hello, I'm Dr. Marla," she says, her voice measured and calm. "We're gonna take some pictures of your teeth, okay?" Plankton nods, his eye wide with anxiety. "Okay," he whispers. Karen squeezes his hand reassuringly, nodding at Dr. Marla. "He's nervous," she says quietly as he rocks in a stim. "But he'll be okay." The chair is cold and hard, but Plankton doesn't notice. He's too busy focusing on his breathing, counting the tiles on the ceiling. Karen stays close, whispering calming phrases. "In and out, honey. You've got this." His rocking slows. Dr. Marla moves with a practiced grace, her eyes watchful and understanding. "Open wide," she instructs, and Plankton obeys. The x-ray is over quickly, and Dr. Marla gently removes the tray. "Good job," she says, her voice soothing. Plankton's eye flutters as he tries to refocus on the room around him. But the calm is shattered when Dr. Marla delivers the news: "Mr. Plankton, you're going to need your wisdom teeth removed today." Plankton's eye widens, his breath catches. "Now?" he stammers, his voice squeaking with fear. Karen nods solemnly. "It's preventative, honey. It'll be easier now than waiting for them to cause problems later." Plankton's heart races as the words sink in. Surgery. Now. His brain spirals into overload. He feels Karen's calming hand on his shoulder, but it's not enough. The world around him feels like it's closing in, the sounds too loud, the lights too bright. "Breathe," Karen whispers. The room becomes a blur of masked faces and shiny instruments. Plankton's body tenses, his stims fading into the background as fear takes over. Karen remains a constant presence, talking him through the process. "They're going to put you to sleep, Plankton," she explains. "You won't feel a thing." The anesthesiologist enters the room, a gentle giant with a calming smile. "I'm Dr. Smith. I'll be taking care of y—" But Plankton's gone into overdrive, his body trembling with the intensity of his fear. "He's autistic," Karen interjects quickly. "He needs extra care. He's sensitive to sensory stimulation." Dr. Marla nods. The anesthesiologist, Dr. Smith, takes a step back, his face a picture of understanding. "It's ok," he says, his voice a gentle rumble. "We'll make this as comfortable as possible for you." Karen nods gratefully. "Plankton has a hard time with sudden changes. Can you tell us what's going to happen?" Dr. Smith nods. "We'll start with a topical numbing agent, then move to a sedative. It'll help keep him asleep during the procedure." The anesthetic cream is cold against Plankton's gums and his arm, where the IV will eventually be. "It's just a tickle," Karen says, trying to soothe his nerves. Plankton nods, his body stiff as a board. He's already in fight or flight mode, his brain unable to process. The mask is placed over his face, and he inhales the sweet smell of nitrous oxide. "Breathe deep," Karen coos, her hand on his. Plankton's eye widens at first, then slowly glazed over as the gas takes hold. The room seems to spin around him, but it's a comforting, soothing spin. The lights dim, the sounds become muffled, and the sharp edges of the world soften. He feels himself being lifted into the chair, his body weightless. Karen's voice is the last thing he hears before everything disappears. Karen texts Hanna. "I'm letting you know, Plankton's getting a tiny operation to remove his wisdom teeth." Karen texts. When the surgery finishes, Plankton is still asleep with Karen holding his limp hand. The dental staff is extra careful not to startle his sensitive system. They wheel him into recovery, his chest rising and falling evenly with the rhythm of sleep. Karen watches him closely, their bond stronger than ever. Hanna's text lights up her phone screen. "How's everything?" Hanna asks. "He's in recovery," Karen replies in the text. Meanwhile, Hanna and Chip are at the park, trying to pass the time. Chip throws a frisbee to Hanna. As the frisbee arcs through the air, he thinks about his dad. He wishes he could be there, but he knows that his mom's calmness is what Plankton needs right now. He wonders how the surgery went, if his dad is ok. Now, the dentist turns to Karen. "The anesthesia will wear off soon. He'll wake up groggy, but he'll be ok." Karen nods, squeezing Plankton's hand as they remove the IV. "His mouth has been numbed, and he might act a bit loopy when he first wakes up." As the anesthesia wears off, Plankton stirs, his eye blinking open. "Hi, honey," Karen says softly. "It's over."

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 4 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Plankton's words come out in a slurry mess, and Karen understands he's trying to share his thoughts with them. "Cwouds...hampy clows. Wheah's the moo...moo? Moo...moom," he mumbles. "Wha...whath's that?" he asks, his eye searching the sky for something that's not there. Karen's laughter fills the car, lightening the mood. "It's just the sun, sweetie," she says. Chip looks at his dad with a mix of amusement and concern. "You ok?" he asks, his voice tentative. Plankton nods, his smile little more than a twitch of his lips as drool starts to form at the corner of his mouth. "Mom," Chip says, his voice tinged with concern. "He's fine, Chip. It's just the medicine wearing off." Karen answers as they pull up into the garage, Plankton's speech still slurred. "Wheath we gothin?" Plankton mumbles. "We're going inside, sweetie," Karen says, helping him out of the car. His legs feel like jelly, his body moving in slow motion as they make their way into the house. The lights seem too bright, the noises too loud. "Mom," Chip whispers, his eyes wide. "Is he ok?" "He's fine," she whispers back, her voice a gentle reminder of their earlier conversation. "This is normal after anesthesia." Inside, Plankton leans heavily on Karen, his eye half-closed. "Bed," he mumbles. Karen nods, guiding him towards the bedroom. "Come on, honey," she says, her voice a soothing balm to his frayed nerves. "Let's get you to bed." The bed feels heavenly under his weight, the covers a warm embrace. Plankton sighs contentedly, his body melting into the softness. His mind is a whirlwind of sensations, but the comfort of the bed grounds him. Karen watches him. The slurred speech and confusion are a stark contrast to his usual sharp and focused self. But she knows this is just the medicine wearing off. Gently, she starts to remove the gauze from his mouth. Plankton's eye opens a crack, his pupil wide with uncertainty. "It's ok," she whispers, her voice soothing. "Let's get this out of here." "Mm-hmm," he murmurs. The gauze is sticky and uncomfortable, but he trusts her. Karen's hands are careful, her movements precise as she works to free his mouth from the confines of the cotton. Plankton winces, his mouth feeling dull and tender. The room tilts slightly as he closes his eye, his body surrendering to the exhaustion that follows surgery. "Now, would you like some i---" But Plankton's already snoring softly, lost to the world. Karen's laughter fills the space between them. She knew he'd be sore later though, not to mention his autistic sensitivities to managing pain.. The next morning, Plankton wakes with a sore mouth and the anesthesia gone. He manages to open his eye. The room is a blur of light and shadow, his gums pounding with a dull throb. His jaw feels achy, his tongue swollen and uncooperative. He tries to sit up as Karen greets him. "How are you feeling, honey?" "Wisdom teeth?" he asks, his memory a haze. Karen smiles. "Yes, sweetie. You had surgery yesterday. Everything went fine." Plankton nods slowly, his eye searching hers for reassurance as Chip comes in to check on his dad. "Hey, Dad," Chip says, his voice soft. "How's the mouth?" Plankton's eye twitches. "Hurt," he manages, his words muffled by the swollen tissue. Karen brings Plankton ice packs. She knows his sensory sensitivities, and how this disruption can overwhelm him. "Thanks, love," he says, his voice a rasp. Karen knew that Plankton's autism means recovery will be more challenging, his senses heightened. "You have to stay calm," Karen instructs Chip, "He needs a quiet environment to heal." Chip nods as he sits on the bed next to Plankton. Plankton's eye opens slightly as the cold ice presses against his cheek. The chill runs through him, a stark relief against the heat of his swollen gums. "It's ok," Karen whispers, her voice a balm to his pain. "It'll help with the swelling." He nods, his hand gripping the ice pack tightly. The room is too bright, the sounds too sharp. His mind craves the familiar comfort of his routines, his stims, but his body won't cooperate. Karen notices his distress, her hand gentle as it brushes his forehead. "You need some space, Plankton?" she asks, reading his cues. He nods, his breath coming in shallow pants. She nods and goes to sit on her bed adjacent to his own. Yet Karen sees the struggle play out across his features with the effort to keep calm, his body tight with tension. Chip, still sitting by his dad, wants to help. He starts to fiddle with his fidget toy, the soft click-clack of the gears echoing in the silence. Plankton's eye snaps open, his gaze drawn to the movement. "Chip, stop," he mumbles, his voice a mixture of pain and irritation. But Chip, eager to distract his father from his own discomfort, doesn't hear the edge in Plankton's voice. The clicking grows faster, each movement a blur of colors and shapes. Plankton's heart starts to race, his body tensing. "Chip," he says more firmly this time. But Chip's fingers dance on the fidget, his eyes focused on his task. The noise and visual assault are too much for Plankton's sensitive system. His face contorts. "Chip, please," Plankton whispers, his voice strained. Chip finally looks up, his expression one of innocent curiosity. "What, Dad? I--" But he doesn't get to finish his sentence. Plankton's hand snatches the fidget toy, his movements jerky. The room seems to shrink, the air thick with tension. Chip's eyes widen, realizing his mistake. "Dad, I'm sor—" But Plankton's agitation has reached a peak. He thrusts the fidget toy away. The plastic clatters on the floor, a jolting sound that pierces the silence. "Too...much," he manages to get out, his voice strained. Chip's cheeks flush with embarrassment and guilt. He didn't mean to upset his father. He just wanted to help. "Sorry," Chip whispers, picking up the toy, which only makes Plankton's anger spike further. The sudden movement of Chip's hand, the sharp sound of the fidget— it's like a storm in his mind. "No!" Plankton yells, his voice raw. Chip freezes, his heart racing. "Dad," he starts, his voice shaky. "I didn't mean..." But Plankton's already flailing, trying to push away the chaos that's invaded his space. Karen quickly moves to intervene. "Chip," she says, her voice firm yet calm. "Remember what we talked about." Chip nods, understanding dawning on his face. He'd forgotten the rules of their world, the delicate balance that keeps Plankton's sanity intact. He'd wanted to help, but instead, he'd added to the storm raging within his dad. She takes the fidget toy from Chip, placing it on the nightstand. "I'm sorry," Plankton whispers, his eye darting around the room. He's lost in his own head, the pain making it difficult to focus. "It's ok," Karen soothes, her touch gentle on his arm. "Let's dim the lights and make it quieter." She pulls the shades closed, the harsh daylight retreating to a soft glow. Chip nods, his expression solemn. "I'll go to my room," he says, his voice small. Plankton's gaze meets his son's, a silent apology passing between them. "Thanks, buddy," he says, his voice a gruff whisper.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 7 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! "Chip's just trying to understand. And so are you." But Plankton can't find the words, the weight of his son's accusations crushing him. He swipes at a tear that's managed to escape, his shoulders heaving. "I just want to be normal," he whispers, his voice barely audible. "To not be a disappointment." Karen's eyes are filled with love and sadness as she shakes her head. "You could never be a disappointment to me, Plankton. You're perfect just the way you are." But he stands up, turning away from her. "No, I'm not," he says, his back to her. "Look at what I've done. I've ruined our lives." His voice is thick with emotion. "I've made Chip resentful, and I've made you...sacrifice so much." Karen moves to his side, placing a hand on his arm. "You haven't ruined anything," she insists. "You're a wonderful husband, an—" "Don't," he snaps, turning to face her, the pain in his eyes like a physical force. "Don't lie to me. You deserve better than this. Better than a husband who can't even sit through a simple family outing without falling apart." His voice cracks, the weight of his words heavy in the quiet room. "You deserve someone who can give you a normal life!" Karen's eyes fill with determined love. "You are what makes our life normal, Plankton," she says, her voice steady. "Our life is special because of you. And as for Chip, he's just confused. He'll understand when he's older." But Plankton shakes his head, his hand coming up to cover his mouth, stifling a cry as he leaves their bedroom. He moves through the house, his bare feet silent on the cool floor, his thoughts a cacophony of doubt and self-loathing. His mind replays Chip's words over and over as he opens the back door, to the backyard. The porch creaks under his weight, his eye unfocused. Meanwhile, Karen goes in to Chip's bedroom. "Chip," she says, her voice soft but firm. "You need to apologize to your dad." He looks up, his eyes swollen from crying. "But I just want him to get better," he whispers, his voice small. "I don't like seeing him hurt." Karen sighs, sitting on the edge of his bed. "I know, sweetie. But your dad can't get 'better' from being autistic. It's not a sickness." She takes a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. "What your dad needs is for us to understand him, to make things easier for him. And for us to be patient when things are hard." Chip sniffs, wiping at his nose. "But it's not fair," he says, his voice a mix of anger and sadness. "Why does he get to be different?" Karen's eyes fill with compassion. "Because he is, Chip. And that's ok. We're all different, in our own ways. That's what makes us unique." She pauses, looking at him with a gentle expression. "But it's also what makes us a family." Plankton sits in the backyard. The stars twinkle above, their indifferent beauty a contrast to the tumult in his heart. He's heard the whispers before, the way people look at him—his inability to fit in, his strange behaviors. He's always known he was different. But to hear it from Chip...it's like a punch to the gut. His mind races, trying to make sense of it all. The world feels like a puzzle he can never solve, no matter how much he wants to. He's tried to be better, to do better, to be the husband and father his family deserves. But it's always just out of reach, like the elusive Krabby Patty formula he's chased for years. He looks down at his hands, still trembling slightly. In the quiet of the night, his stims come back, a comforting rhythm that soothes his frayed nerves. He starts to rock slightly, back and forth, his eye unfocused. It's a habit he's had since he was young, a way to calm the storm in his head. It's his brain's way of telling him he's safe, even when the world feels like it's closing in. He doesn't realize he's speaking until the words spill out. "I'm not enough," he whispers to the night. "I'll never be enough.." Back in the house, Karen holds Chip tight, her heart heavy with the weight of their conversation. She knows his frustrations are born out of love, but she also knows how much Chip's words sting Plankton. She needs to fix this, to mend the fracture in their family's foundation. "Come on, buddy," she says, wiping Chip's tears away. "Let's talk to your dad. He needs to hear you're sorry." Chip nods, his eyes red and swollen. Karen leads him to the back door, where they find Plankton, his gaze lost as he shivers uncontrollably. "Dad?" Chip says. Plankton's head snaps up, his eye wide with surprise. "What?" He says, his voice thick with pain. "I'm sorry," Chip whispers, his body trembling. "I didn't mean those things." Karen's gaze is firm, her voice steady. "We need to talk, Plankton," she says. "Both of you." She leads them back inside, the warmth of the house a stark contrast to the chill outside. Plankton allows himself to be guided, his mind a whirlwind. In the living room, they sit, a tapestry of emotions. Karen starts, her voice measured. "Chip, your dad doesn't mean to make things difficult. His brain just interprets the world differently." Chip looks up, his eyes wet. "But why can't he just try?" He asks, his voice desperate. "Why can't he just be normal?" Plankton flinches, his gaze dropping to the floor. Karen sighs, her hand wrapped around Plankton's. "Chip," she starts gently. "You know autism isn't a choice. Your dad's brain is different. It's like asking someone to change their eye color." Chip frowns, his young mind struggling to comprehend. "But why can't he just ignore it?" He asks, his voice small. Plankton looks up, his eye filled with a mix of anger and sadness. "Because it's not ignorable," he says, his voice firm. "It's like you're asking one to ignore breathing." The room falls silent, the gravity of his words sinking in. "It's always there, affecting how he sees, hears, feels." Chip's expression softens, a glimmer of understanding dawning. "Your dad does his best every day. And so do we, to support him. It's not about changing for him, Chip," she says. "It's about meeting him where he is. When someone's in a wheelchair, you don't tell them to climb the stairs. You build a ramp." Plankton nods slightly, his gaze still on the floor. "Autism is like that," Karen continues. "It's part of who he is, and we love him for all of him."

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 10 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! The house feels eerily quiet without Plankton's usual rambling. Chip sits in his room, his thoughts racing. He didn't mean to make his dad feel patronized or pitied. He just wanted to share something that had brought joy. He opens the book to where Plankton had torn it. The pages are jagged, but the message isn't lost. 'AUSOME AUsomeness'. It dawns on him how wrong he was to assume his dad's experience mirrored Timmy's. Autism isn't a one-size-fits-all, and he'd hurt his own father by not seeing him as an individual. Chip lies on his bed, staring at the ceiling, the weight of his mistake pressing down on him. He thinks about his dad's seizures, his stims, and the pain in his eye. What if he'd made his dad feel even more alone? The next day at school, Chip goes up to Timmy, his heart heavy. "Hey," he says, his voice low. "My dad, he saw the book I showed him, and he didn't like it." Timmy looks at him, his eyes full of concern. "Oh no, why?" He asks. Chip takes a deep breath. "He said it felt like I was making fun of him," he admits. "And I didn't mean to." Timmy nods, his hands still. "Everyone's different," he says. "Some of us can laugh about it, and some of us can't." He pauses. "But you tried, Chip. That's what matters." Chip nods, feeling a tiny bit better. Maybe he couldn't make his dad feel like a superhero, but at least he'd tried. "Hey Timmy, can you come over after school?" Chip asks. Timmy's eyes lit up. "Sure," he says. So after school Timmy follows Chip to his house. When they arrive, Karen greets them with a warm smile. "You must be Timmy," she says, shaking his hand. "I've heard so much about you." Timmy smiles shyly. "It's nice to meet you, Mrs. Plankton." They walk into the living room where Plankton is sitting, his gaze on the floor. Chip feels his heart race as Timmy enters. "Dad," Chip says, his voice shaky. "This is Timmy." Plankton looks up, his eye narrowing slightly. Timmy takes the lead, his hands flapping slightly as he speaks. "Hi, Mr. Plankton," he says, his voice earnest. "Chip told me you're like me." Plankton looks between the two of them, his expression unreadable. "How so?" Plankton challenges. Timmy takes a deep breath, his eyes darting to Chip for support. "Well," he starts, "we're both autistic." Plankton's gaze sharpens, his posture stiffening. Timmy looks at his own hands, which are still flapping slightly. "It means my brain works differently," he says, his voice steady. "But that's not all bad. It's like having a superpower, sometimes." He smiles, his eyes finding Chip's. "Like, I'm really good at math, and I can remember things other people forget. What's your autistic powers, Mr. Plankton?" Plankton's eye widens. No one's ever asked him that before. "I...I don't know," he says slowly, his voice unsure and flustered. Timmy nods. "Well, if you ever want to talk about it, I'm here," he says, his voice gentle. "It's not always easy, but it's not always bad either." He sits down next to Plankton, his hands now still. Karen watches from the kitchen with hope. Maybe Timmy could show Plankton that his autism isn't something to be ashamed of, but something that makes him uniquely him. Plankton's eye flickers towards Timmy, and for a moment, Chip sees a glimpse of curiosity. "I'm an inventor," he says, his voice still guarded. "I can create things that no one else can." Timmy nods, his face serious. "That's awesome," he says. "My superpower is that I never forget a face once I've seen it. It's pretty useful when you've got a memory like a steel trap." The two of them sit in silence for a few moments, the tension in the room dissipating slightly. Then, Timmy speaks up again. "You know, Mr. Plankton," he says, his voice earnest. "Sometimes, it's good to have someone else who gets it." He looks at his own hands, which have started flapping again. "Someone who won't stare or judge." Plankton looks at Timmy, his expression unreadable. Sensing an opening, Karen interjects, her voice soft. "Plankton, maybe talking to Timmy could help. You've always said you felt lonely in your own world, maybe he can shine some li-" "I don't need a support group," Plankton snaps, but his tone lacks its usual bite. "I need my family to understand me." His gaze meets Chip's, and the hurt in his eye is unmistakable. Timmy nods, his hands still in his lap. "I get that," he says, his voice calm. "But sometimes, it's nice to know you're not the only one with superpowers, you kn-" "Don't," Plankton cuts him off, his voice sharp. "Don't call it that." But Timmy isn't deterred. "Okay," he says, his tone respectful. "But yo-" "I'm not a child, Timmy," Plankton says, his voice strained. "I don't need to be told bedtime stories to make me feel better about my condition." Chip feels his chest tighten as he watches his dad's reaction. Timmy's eyes are filled with understanding. "It's not a bedtime story, Mr. Plankton," he says, his voice calm. "It's a way to see th-" "I said DON'T," Plankton's voice rises, his frustration evident. Chip feels his stomach drop. This isn't going well. But Timmy doesn't back down. "But Mr. Plankton," he says, his voice firm but gentle. "You're not just a scientist, you're a person too. And people need to feel seen, understood, and valued. Maybe this book isn't for you, but it's for others like us-" "Like us?" Plankton repeats, his voice cold. "Don't you dare lump me in with you, young man. My autism is not a game or a gimmick. It's a part of me, yes, but it's not something to be used to make my son feel better about himself." Timmy's face falls, but his voice remains steady. "I'm sorry if it came across that way," he says. "That wasn't my intent." Karen steps in, trying to defuse the situation. "Plankton, maybe we're all just tr-" But Plankton cuts her off. "I'm tired of being the lesson," he says, his voice shaking. "I'm tired of being someone's 'project'. I'm not your science experiment because in the real world, people don't get it." He turns to Chip. "And you, thinking you can just fix me with a book? Some people don't get a happy ending, Chip." The anger in his voice makes Chip flinch. Timmy looks from Plankton to Chip, his eyes wide. "I didn't mean to cause any trouble," he says, his voice small. "I just...I just thought maybe we could learn from each other." Plankton's gaze remains on the floor. "Life's not that simple," he says, his voice weary. "You think a book can change how people see me?" He shakes his head, his frustration palpable. "Why don't we all just put on capes and pretend we're superheroes?" The sarcasm stings, but Chip knows he's not mad at Timmy. He's mad at the world, at the unfairness of it all. Timmy's hands start to flap again, his body responding to the tension in the room. "Mr. Plankton," he says, his voice earnest. "I know it's not easy. But sometimes, finding someone who gets it ca--" "GETS IT?" Plankton's voice echoes through the room. "You might have autism, like I do, but we're not the same!" He slams his fist down on the table, the force of it making the china rattle. "You don't know what it's like for me! When I was in school, teachers tied my hands to my chair to make me stop flapping! Do you have any idea how tha-" "Plankton!" Karen gasps with shocked surprise. She never heard of that before. "You never talked about that," she says, her voice trembling as she approaches him, her hands reaching out in a comforting gesture. Plankton's eye meets hers, and for a moment, the anger seems to drain from his face, replaced by a deep sadness. But he's not done. "That was almost child's play compared to the time when a teacher had explained to the class that I was 'lesser', and that, because of my autism, I wasn't capable of living a 'worthwhile' life and also deserved to be institutionalized, since I was just a drain on society," Plankton says, his voice trembling with rage. Timmy's hands stop moving altogether, his eyes wide with horror. "That's terrible," he whispers, his voice barely audible. "But Mr. Plankton, you have so much to offer. You're smart and you have a son that loves yo-" "Don't," Plankton says, his voice a warning. "Don't you dare try to erase my pain with your childish optimism." Timmy's eyes fill with understanding, his hands falling still. "I'm sorry," he says, his voice low. "I know it's not the same for everyone. But sometimes, finding strength in the way we're different can help." He looks down at his hands, his voice barely above a whisper. "I just wanted to share that wi-" But Plankton's had enough. He stands, his body rigid. "I don't need a pep talk," he says. "I need you to see me as I am." He walks away.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 11 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! The room feels like it's shrunk, the air thick with unspoken words. Chip's chest tightens, his eyes stinging. He'd never wanted to make his dad feel like this. Timmy looks at him, his expression full of sympathy. "It's okay," he says, his voice soothing. "He's just scared." They sit in silence for a while, the only sound the steady ticking of the clock on the mantel. Chip's mind is racing, trying to piece together what went wrong. How could something that brought Timmy so much joy cause so much pain for his dad? Timmy breaks the silence, his voice soft. "Sometimes, it's hard for people to accept help," he says. "Especially when it feels like you're trying to change them." He looks at Chip, his eyes understanding. "But you can't make anyone feel something they're not ready to." Chip nods, feeling a lump form in his throat. "But what do we do now?" He asks, desperation lacing his voice. Timmy shrugs. "Let's go apologize.." They find Plankton sitting on his bed in the bedroom. Chip's heart raced as they approached. "Dad," he starts, his voice shaking. "Timmy and I, we just want to say we're sorry." Plankton looks up, his eye twitching slightly. "You can't fix me." Timmy nods as Karen comes in. "But we can still be there for you," he says, his voice earnest. "And maybe, we can learn together." Plankton's gaze meets Timmy's, his expression unreadable. But before anyone can say another word, Plankton's body shifts. Suddenly, his eye glazed over, and he starts to rock back and forth, his hands flapping rapidly. "Dad?" Chip asks, his voice filled with fear; but Karen understands. "It's okay," Karen says. "It's one of his seizures." Timmy's eyes widen, his hands stilling in mid-air. "What's happening?" He asks. Karen explains in a calm, steady voice. "It's called a non-motor seizure. Sometimes it's just his brain doing its own thing. We have to be quiet and let it pass. This isn't the first time." Chip watches as Plankton's body rocks back and forth, his eye unfocused. He feels a rush of fear and helplessness. This is his dad, his hero, reduced to this by something he can't control. Timmy nods, his eyes never leaving Plankton. Karen quickly moves to Plankton's side. "Remember, Chip," she whispers, her voice calm. "Just let it run its course. It's like a storm passing through." Chip nods, his eyes glued to his dad's trembling form. Timmy sits silently beside them, his hands still in his lap as Plankton's seizure unfolds. His rocking becomes more pronounced, his breathing shallow and rapid. Karen holds his hand, her expression a mask of concern. "It's okay, sweetie," she murmurs. "You're sa-" But Plankton's body jolts, his eye rolling back in his head. Chip watches his dad's autistic behavior take over in a way he's never seen before. Timmy's eyes are wide with shock. "Is he okay?" He whispers to Karen. She nods. "It'll be over soon," she promises. "It's just part of his autism." The minutes drag on, each second feeling like an eternity. Plankton's seizure subsides, his body finally still. His breathing evens out, and the color starts to return to his cheeks. Chip feels a weight lift from his chest. "It's over," Karen whispers, her hand still gripping Plankton's. Timmy looks at Chip, his eyes full of unspoken questions. Plankton slowly opens his eye. Timmy's eyes are full of concern. "Are you okay, Mr. Plankton?" But Plankton doesn't answer. He's staring at something on the wall, something only he can see. His hand reaches out, flapping slightly, as if trying to grab onto an invisible thought. But Karen's been through this before. She knows what to do. She whispers to Timmy, "It's okay. This is just his brain's way of handling too much input." Timmy nods, his eyes glued to Plankton. As Plankton's body slowly relaxes, his voice starts, a string of words that don't quite make sense. "The... the...the...spoons," Plankton says, his voice distant. Chip and Timmy exchange confused glances. Karen squeezes Plankton's hand. "It's okay, baby," she whispers. "You're okay." Plankton's eye moved around the room, his hands flapping slightly. "The... the...the...spoons," he repeats. Karen's face relaxes into understanding. "Echolalia," she whispers to Chip and Timmy. "It's a way his brain reboots after a seizure." Timmy nods, his gaze still on Plankton. "I know about that," he says. "It's like my brain's playing back a tape of everything that's happened, trying to make sense of it." Plankton's voice gradually gains clarity. "The spoons...they...they're..." Chip watches, his heart in his throat, as his dad's hand still flutters in the air, his eye unfocused. "It's a sensory thing," Karen says, keeping her voice low. "Sometimes, his brain gets overwhelmed." Plankton's voice grows stronger, the words more random. "The...the...did," he says, his hand moving in patterns that seem to have a rhythm only he can understand. "They were...were...were..." Karen's eyes never leave Plankton's, her gaze full of patience and love. "Just breathe, baby," she says, her voice soothing. "Take your time.." Timmy watches, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "What's he saying?" He whispers. "It's okay," Karen reassures both Timmy and Chip. "It's just his brain trying to find it's bearings. Just let him find his way back." Plankton's words become more nonsensical, his hand still moving through the air as his voice cracks. "They...they were...were..." His eye flickers, and he swallows hard. "They were always...always..." Timmy's eyes never leave Plankton's, his gaze filled with understanding and compassion. He's been here before, in his own way. His hands start to move slightly again, as if he's trying to connect with Plankton's thoughts. "It's okay," he whispers. "You don't have to push." But Plankton's voice doesn't listen. "They were always...always... were...were...pats," he says, his hand moving in a pattern that makes no sense to him. Chip feels his heart break for his dad. This isn't the first time he's seen a seizure, but every time, it's like watching a piece of Plankton get taken away, leaving behind a man who's lost in his own world. Timmy, though, seems to understand. He reaches out his own hand, mirroring Plankton's movements. "It's okay," he says again. "We're here for yo-" But Plankton isn't listening. "They were always...were...pats," he repeats, his voice getting louder. "They were always pats!" He starts to chuckle. "Pats, pats, pats!" His hand hits the bed. Karen smiles sadly. "Plankton, I see you," she says, her voice a whisper. "You'll come back to us." Chip watches, his heart racing. Timmy's eyes are wide with understanding. He's seen this before in himself. "It's okay," he says, his voice calm. "You can come back whenever you're ready." Plankton's hand still flaps. "I'm here, Mr. Plankton," Timmy says. "You're not al—" But Plankton's voice rose in pitch. "The...tck...tck..." He's ticcing now, Chip realized. Each syllable punctuated with a sharp, staccato twitch of his face. "Tck...tck...tck..." Karen's grip on Plankton's hand tightens slightly, her eyes full of love and understanding. "You're okay," she murmurs, her voice steady. "Just let it out. It's okay." Karen turns to them. "This helps him," she whispers. "It's like...like releasing pressure." Timmy nods, his own hands still in his lap. "I get tics too," he says, his voice barely audible. "But not like that." He looks at Chip. "Sometimes it's ju—" But then, with a blink, Plankton comes back to himself. He looks around the room, confused. "What...what happened?" He asks, his voice slurred. Karen smiles gently. "You had a seizure, sweetie," she says. "But you're okay now."

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 12 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Timmy watches him, his expression a mix of empathy and curiosity. "Is that normal?" He asks, his voice soft. Karen nods. "It's part of his autism," she says. "And his seizures. Sometimes his brain just needs a moment to recalibrate." Plankton looks at Timmy, his eye searching. "Do you...do you ever feel like that?" He asks, his voice tentative. Timmy nods. "Sometimes," he admits. "But not like that. My tics are more... predictable." He shows them his hands, which have started to move again. "It's like...like a little dance my brain does." The room feels a little less heavy as Plankton's tics slow, his hand coming to rest. "It's okay," Timmy says, his voice gentle. "We're here." Plankton nods, his gaze flitting around the room before settling on Chip. "I'm sorry," he says, embarrassed. "You don't have to apologize," Karen says, stroking his arm. "It's just part of who you are." But Plankton's eye is still on Chip, his expression uncertain. "I don't want you to be scared of me," he says. Timmy looks from Plankton to Chip, his eyes thoughtful. "You know," he says, "I used to think my tics were something to hide. Something wrong with me." He pauses. "But then I realized, they're just how my brain works. And sometimes, they're even pretty cool." He grins, his hands moving in a complex pattern. "Like, if I flap just right, I can make things fall over." He laughs, his eyes sparkling. Chip can't help but smile at Timmy's candidness. Plankton, though, remains silent. Timmy's words hang in the air, a gentle reminder that autism isn't just about the struggles, but the unique quirks that make them who they are. Chip's mind whirls with the weight of his dad's apology. "You don't have to be sorry for being you," Chip says finally, his voice shaking. Plankton looks at him, his expression unreadable. "But I don't want you to be afraid," he says. "I don't want you to think I'm a monster." Timmy's smile fades. "You're not," he says firmly. "You're my friend's dad. And you're a person, just like me." Karen nods, her screen shiny with unshed tears. "He's right, Plankton," she says. "You're more than just your autism." But Plankton's gaze remains fixed on Chip. "I just want you to understand," he says. "I'm not like everyone else." Chip swallows hard, his throat tight. "I do," he whispers. "I see you." Timmy then shifts. "I've to go, but I'll see you at school, Chip!" Timmy leaves, and Chip moves closer to his dad. "Dad," he says, his voice quiet. "I'm not afraid of you. I'm afraid f-for you." Plankton's eye blinks, his hand stopping momentarily. "You don't have to hide from me," Chip continues. "Your tics, your stims, your seizures...they're just part of who you are." The next day, Timmy goes to the Krusty Krab to get himself a Krabby Patty. Mr. Krabs, the owner of the Krusty Krab restaurant, sees Timmy waving his hands. Mr. Krabs, a burly red crab known for his love for money and quick temper, doesn't understand Timmy's behavior. "What's the ruckus for?" He barks. Timmy's eyes dart around, his hands flapping faster. "I-I-I'm just...just..." He stammers, his words tangling in his mouth. Mr. Krabs raises an eyebrow. "Ye okay, kid?" He asks, his tone gruff but concerned. Timmy nods, his hands still moving. "I'm just excited," he says, his voice quick. "I-I-I like Krabby Patties." Mr. Krabs' expression shifts. "What's wi-" "I have autism," Timmy says, his voice clear. "It makes me flap and talk fast when I'm excited." Mr. Krabs looks confused, his claws paused mid-air. "A- uh...what's that?" He asks, his usual gruffness replaced by curiosity. Timmy takes a deep breath. "It's like my brain works different," he explains. "Some things are hard for me, but I see things others might miss. It's a type of...neuro-diversity. My grandma has it as well, and they think I've inherited it. It can manifest in different ways, being why it's called Autistic Spectrum. I've always been this way! There's no 'cure' but I'm proud of who I am. Autism is classified as a disability, yet it's also a gift, really. And sorry for rambling on, sir.." Mr. Krabs nods thoughtfully. "So, what exactly is the autism spectrum? And what type of disability is it?" He asks Timmy. Timmy smiles, happy to explain. "The autism spectrum is like a rainbow of brains," he says. "Some people are at one end and others are at the other, and everyone's different. It's like we're all unique snowflakes, but with brains instead of snow." He pauses, then continues. "It means we process things differently. Some of us have challenges with social interactions or sensory overload.." Mr. Krabs nods slowly, his claws still. "So, it's like, sometimes you see a Krabby Patty and it's just so good you can't help but wave your hands?" He asks, his eyes twinkling with the beginnings of understanding. Timmy laughs, his hands stopping for a moment. "Sort of," he says. "But it's more than just being happy. Sometimes it's hard to communicate or deal with too much noise or touch." Mr. Krabs looks concerned. "What do ye mean?" Timmy takes a deep breath, his hands starting to flap again. "Well, if it's too loud or too bright, or if someone touches me in a way that feels weird, my brain gets overwhelmed. It's like my brain is a computer and it's trying to run too many programs at once. It can be really tough." Mr. Krabs' expression softens. "I had no idea," he says. "But you're still a good kid." Timmy nods, his smile genuine. "And it's okay to ask questions," he adds. "That's how we learn. And as for communicating, it can be hard for an autistic person to find the right words, but it doesn't mean we don't have anything important to say. But misunderstandings can happen because of it. And the big emotions can come out in ways that seem unexpected. So my flapping is a way to communicate my joy. And it's important to let us express ourselves without judgment." Mr. Krabs looks down at his claws, realizing their potential for harm. "I'm sorry if I made ye uncomfortable, Timmy," he says, his voice low. "I didn't mean to. I just...I don't think I've ever really talked to someone with autism before." Timmy's hands still. "It's okay," he says. "Lots of people don't know what it's like. That's why it's important to tell them. And it can be hard to tell, because everyone's experience is so different." Mr. Krabs nods, his eyes thoughtful. "I see," he says. "So, what can I do to make your dining experience here today more comfortable? I want to make sure you're happy." Timmy's smile grows. "Well, thank you, Mr. Krabs," he says. "Could I maybe sit in a quieter corner?" He suggests. "And maybe I could have my Krabby Patty without the pickles?" Mr. Krabs' eyes widen. "Of course, Timmy," he says, snapping his claws. "I'll get that taken care of right away." He turns to his staff. "Ye heard the boy!" He barks. "Give Timmy a VIP seat and get him his Krabby Patty, no pickles, and make it snappy!" The employees jump into action, and within moments, Timmy is seated in a quiet corner of the restaurant, his Krabby Patty steaming on the table in front of him. Mr. Krabs sits down opposite him. "So, tell me more about this autism thing," he says, his eyes genuinely curious. "How does it affect folks?" Timmy takes a bite of his sandwich, savoring the taste. "Well," he says thoughtfully, his chewing slowing down. "It's like we see the world through a different lens. Some of us have super senses—like I can hear the fryer sizzling from across the room, and noise can hurt my ears—but others might not notice at all." Mr. Krabs leans in with interest. "And what about stimming?" He asks. "Is that what you call it when you wave your hands around?" Timmy nods, swallowing his food. "Yes," he says. "Stimming is self-stimulating behavior. It helps us focus and deal with the sensory input. Like, when I'm excited about something, I flap. That's just my own way of stimming. But not all autistic people do." Mr. Krabs nods, his claw tapping the table. "And what about social stuff?" He asks. Timmy thinks for a moment. "Some of us find it hard to read social cues," he says. "It's like everyone's playing a game of charades, and we don't know the rules. And some people might not like to be touched, or they might not understand jokes right away. But that doesn't mean we don't have feelings or want to be friends." Mr. Krabs considers this, his eyes thoughtful. "So, it's like each one of ye has a secret handshake, but it's not really a handshake at all?" Timmy grins. "Exactly!" He says. "Everyone's got their own way of saying hello. And it's okay if we don't always get it right. What's important is trying to understand each other." Mr. Krabs nods slowly. "I see," he says. "I wanna make sure that everyone who comes here feels welcome. I mean, all the autistic folks." Timmy's eyes lit up. "Thank you," he says. "That means a lot!"

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 13 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Mr. Krabs calls over his top chef, SpongeBob. "SpongeBob!" He yells. "We're going to start an 'Autism Awareness Day' at the Krusty Krab!" Sponge Bob's eyes widen in excitement. "Oh, Mr. Krabs that's so nice! Wait, when did you figure out I have it?" Sponge Bob's revelation silences the room for a moment. Timmy looks at him with a new found respect. "You do?" He asks. "Yeah, I was diagnosed when I was a kid," SpongeBob says, his eyes shyly looking down at his spatula. "But for me, I can have a hard time telling when people are sad or angry. But I also feel like it's what makes me so good at my job. I've memorized the entire employee handbook!" He laughs. "I haven't met anyone that I know of, other than you now Timmy, who's autistic though." Mr. Krabs nods, his gaze thoughtful. "I had no idea," he says. "But you know what? That's a strength. And from now on, we're going to make the Krusty Krab a place where everyone feels welcome, especially our autistic friends. I'd no idea, Sponge Bob! But if ye ever feel like ye need to talk, me office is always open!" The next day, Mr. Krabs announces to the town that the Krusty Krab will be hosting an Autism Awareness Day, where the menu will have additions to cater to the sensory needs of autistic customers. The news spreads fast, and soon, families with autistic children are lining up outside the restaurant. So after Chip left for school, Plankton sneaks a peek at the rival restaurant. Krabs is outside, chatting with Sponge Bob, who's now wearing a neon badge that reads 'Autism Awareness Champion'. Plankton watches, his antennae twitching with confusion. He's not used to seeing his enemy being... nice? "Karen, do you see Krabs? The guy who's stepped on me is calling himself a friend to autistics! I don't know whether to laugh or cry.." Plankton says. Karen nods, her gaze following Plankton's. "Well, he doesn't know yo--" "I know," Plankton cuts in, his voice tight. "But it's still...it's just..." He can't find the words. "It's just weird. I'm sneaking over there." And without waiting for Karen's response, Plankton bolts. His tiny legs carry him quickly, his eye locked on Krabs. He decides to eavesdrop. Krabs is speaking to a mother with a young boy. "Your son is welcome here," he says. "I promise we'll do our best to accommodate him." She smiles gratefully. Plankton watches, his heart racing. Krabs, the man who has caused him so much grief, is now advocating for the very thing he's struggled with his entire life. It's unsettling. He sees Krabs gently guide a nonverbal child away from the noise and bustle of the kitchen. Inside, there's a quiet play area with fidget toys and weighted blankets. The menu now includes sensory-friendly options, and the staff is wearing pins with the same message as SpongeBob's badge. "Autism Awareness Champion." Plankton's mind whirs. He made sure Krabs never found out about his autism, so he can perhaps act like he also belongs, and watch Krabs hypocrisy when he taunts his secretly autistic enemy! Plankton chuckles as he goes to the register when Krabs spots him. "What are ye doing here?" Mr. Krabs barks. "Plankton, you know you're not welcome!" Plankton's antennae twitch, trying to hide the urge to smirk. "Gimme a patty," Plankton says, his voice deliberately casual. Mr. Krabs' eyes narrow. "I don't think so," he says, his tone cold. "You're just here to steal me formular!" Plankton's antennae twitch in annoyance, but he plays along. "No, Mr. Krabs," he says, his voice measured. "I just came for a bite to eat. Thought I'd support your...new initiative." His voice is heavy with sarcasm, but Mr. Krabs misses the cue. "Initiative?" He snaps his claws. "It's not just an initiative, it's about respect! Understanding! We're making this p-" "Yeah, right," Plankton says, forcing a smirk. "As if yo--" "Plankton, how many times do I have to tell ye?" Mr. Krabs sighs, his eyes flashing with frustration. "You're not welcome here; never will you get to taste the Krabby Patty!" But Plankton's mind is racing. He can't believe what he's seeing. Mr. Krabs, the man who's always dismissed his differences, now embracing autism? It's like a twisted joke that he's not in on. He watches as Krabs helps another child, this one with a headset to block out the noise. The sight makes him feel both angry and...envious? So he stayed stubbornly firm, wanting to see how far this can go. Mr. Krabs crosses his arms. "I'm just trying to do the right thing. I have a friend," he says. "Someone special. And I've learned that everyone deserves to be seen for who they are." Plankton's eye widens slightly, but he keeps his poker face. "Is that so?" He says. "Well, I des-" "But you," Mr. Krabs says, his voice hard. "You're just here to cause trouble." Plankton feels a pang of frustration. How could Krabs be so blind to his own hypocrisy? "Krabs, you don't kno—" But Mr. Krabs won't let him finish. "No, Plankton," he says. "You don't get to play this game with me today. This isn't about you. It's about autistics, who deserve a place where they can be themselves without worry." Plankton's smirk fades, his eye darting around the room, seeing the smiling faces of the customers. "I am a-" "You're just here to steal my recipe!" Mr. Krabs roars, cutting Plankton off. "I'm not stupid like you, and I'm not gonna let the likes of you ruin this for everyone else.." The claws come down, hard and sharp, pinching Plankton's arm. He yelps in pain, his eye widening. The room goes blurry around the edges as he feels the sting, the pain. Mr. Krabs' face is a mask of fury, his eyes narrowed to slits. "Get out," he says, his voice cold. "You're not welcome here." But Plankton is frozen, his body trembling with the sudden flare of pain. He tries to pull away, his voice a mix of surprise and anger. "What are you doing?" He stammers. "You're hurt-" Mr. Krabs' grip tightens, his claws digging into Plankton's skin. "I said, get out," he repeats, his voice like steel. "You're not welcome here." Plankton feels his cheeks burning with humiliation and rage. How dare this crustacean, who has never understood him, claim to be an ally to his kind? He wrenches his arm free, rubbing the red marks. But then Mr. Krabs' fist comes down, connecting with Plankton's already hurt arm. The pain is sudden and intense, like a bolt of lightning shooting through his body. Plankton's legs give out, and his vision swims, but his body won't respond. He can feel the overwhelm started happening in his brain, a sensation he's felt many times before. It's like the world is spinning around him, but he's stuck in place. He's gonna have a generalized non-motor seizure, and he knows it. The customers gasp, and Mr. Krabs' eyes widen. "What's going on?" He yells, his voice echoing in Plankton's ears. The world goes quiet, and Plankton can feel his body twitching, his muscles spasming in response to the electrical storm in his brain. Another seizure, another complete loss of control. He hits the floor, his body convulsing. He tries to call out for help, but the only thing that comes out is a garbled mess of sounds, his mouth not quite forming the words he needs. His vision flickers, going in and out like a broken neon sign. He can hear voices around him, but they're muted. Spongebob rushes over, his eyes wide. "Mr. Krabs, what's wrong with him?" He asks. Mr. Krabs is frozen, his fists still clenched. "I don't know," he says, his voice tight. "I just hurt his arm..." One of the customer's eyes widen with realization. "It's a seizure," she says. Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his spatula dropping to the floor with a clatter. "Mr. Krabs, we have to help him! I'll get a first aid kit!" He yells, his voice shaking. The mother with the flapping child kneels beside Plankton, her face a mask of understanding. "I've seen this happen before. It can happen to some autistic people, as a result of stress or sensory overload." She says, as Sponge Bob returns with the first aid kit. The mother sighs, her eyes never leaving Plankton. "I've seen it happen to my son," she says gently. "It's part of his autism. It's called a non-epileptic seizure. It's not to dangerous, yet it can be scary for him." Mr. Krabs stammers; "I didn't know," he says, his voice small. "I just..." His gaze drops to the floor, as he finally realizes that Plankton is a part of the community he's supposed to be championing. The room is a blur of movement around Plankton as the staff and customers scramble to help, but all he can focus on is the pain in his arm, the embarrassment. Sponge Bob returns with a first aid kit, eyes wide with concern as he goes to bandage the arm. "Here, let me help," he says, his touch is surprisingly comforting as he carefully wraps the bandage around the injured area. Plankton can feel the warmth of his compassion through the cotton material. The mother nods. "It's just his way of dealing with it all. Sometimes, their bodies just...react." She pauses, her gaze flicking to Mr. Krabs, who is still standing frozen with shock. "But it's not always like this. Sometimes, they just need extra understanding." Mr. Krabs stammers, his gaze falling to Plankton's twitching form. "He's... autistic, too." "Yes, he's having a non- epileptic seizure," the mother says gently. "It's something that can happen to some autistics when overwhelmed." Mr. Krabs watches, his claws trembling slightly. "I'm so sorry, Plankton," he says, his voice filled with genuine regret. "I didn't know Plankton, can ye hear me?" Plankton's body gradually stills, the storm in his brain passing. His eye flutters open, and he looks up to see Mr. Krabs and Sponge Bob hovering above him, the mother still beside him.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 14 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! "Plankton, are you ok?" Sponge Bob asks, his voice trembling. Plankton blinks slowly, the world swimming into focus. He feels...exposed. Vulnerable. He hates that. But he nods, his voice a whisper. "I-I-I-I…think s-so?" Mr. Krabs looms over them, his expression a mixture of shock and regret. "I didn't know," he says again, his voice cracking. "I had no ide-" "Please" Plankton says, his voice hoarse. He doesn't have the energy to be angry anymore. His body feels like it's made of jelly, and his arm throbs where Mr. Krabs' claw had been. But he understands now. Mr. Krabs is trying, in his own way, to make things right. And maybe, just maybe, Plankton can show his enemy what it means to be an ally. Mr. Krabs nods, his eyes shiny. "I promise," he says. "I'll do better. For you, for all of you." Plankton looks up at his enemy. Mr. Krabs looks down at his own hands, now trembling. "I'm sorry, Plankton," he says, his voice thick with emotion. "I didn't underst--" But Plankton cuts him off, his tiny body pushing itself up onto his elbows. "You don't get it," he says, his voice shaking with anger. "You think you can just throw around words like 'respect' and 'understanding' and pretend to care about autism? After all you've done to me?" His words hang in the air like accusations, sharp and painful. Mr. Krabs looks at him, his eyes softening slightly. "Plankton, I-I didn't know," he stammers. "I just...I just want to help. I don't want to fight anymore." But Plankton's not having it. He glares up at him, his tiny fists balled. "Help?" He spits out the word. "You think this is helping? You think excluding me from your 'Autism Awareness' shindig makes you a champion?" His voice is hoarse from the seizure, but the anger in it is clear. "Well you're wrong, Krabs. You're not helping anyone by ignoring me!" Mr. Krabs' expression falls, his claws dropping to his sides. "I-I didn't know," he repeats, his voice now just a whisper. "I didn't know ye were autisti-" But Plankton isn't listening. With a grunt, he pulls himself to his feet, the pain in his arm fading to a dull throb. "You don't know anything," he says, his voice shaking. "You think you can just throw a party and call yourself an ally? It's not about you, Krabs." He turns to leave, his legs unsteady, but his determination firm. He's had enough of the Krusty Krab's insincere attention. He doesn't need his pity or their half-hearted attempts at inclusivity. He just needs to get out of there, away from the prying eyes and the whispers of concern. Walking home, Plankton's mind whirs with thoughts of Mr. Krabs' ignorance and his own fury. He's used to the taunts and the jokes, but this...this was different. This was supposed to be a place where autistic people were celebrated, not a stage for someone to play the hero. The irony isn't lost on him—his enemy, the man who has belittled him for years, now claiming to stand up for his community. When Plankton comes back, Karen greets him as usual. "Hey, Plankton," she says. But her smile falters when she sees his expression. "What happened?" Plankton shakes his head, his eye downcast. "It's...nothing," he mumbles, his voice tight. He can't bring himself to tell her about the seizure, about Mr. Krabs' finding out. But Karen's not so easily fooled. She takes one look at his bandaged arm and the haunted look in his eye and knows something's off. "What happened?" She asks again, her tone gentle but insistent. Plankton sighs, his antennae drooping. "Mr. Krabs," he says, his voice tight. "He...he found out." Karen's eyes widen in understanding. "And?" She prompts gently as he removes his bandages. Plankton's arm is a mess of red marks and bruises, a stark testament to Krabs' mistaken anger. "And he said he's sorry," Plankton says, his voice still tight with emotion. "He said he wants to help." But there's a bitter edge to his words that tells Karen all she needs to know about how Plankton really feels. She nods, her expression thoughtful. "Well, maybe this could be a good thing," she says. "Maybe it'll help him understand. Maybe it'll make things better between you two." But Plankton's not so optimistic. "Or maybe," he says, his voice a mix of anger and disappointment. "Maybe he'll just use it against me." Karen's expression softens, and she reaches out to gently pat his antennae. "Plankton," she says. "You can't control how others react. But you can control how you respond." Plankton sighs, his body slumping into the chair. He knows she's right, but it's hard to let go of the anger. He thinks back to the way Krabs' claws felt on his arm, the way his vision had swirled and his body had betrayed him. He's used to hiding his autism, keeping it a secret from those who wouldn't understand. But now, his deepest, most vulnerable part has been laid bare before his enemy. He shakes his head. "I don't know, Karen," he says, his voice small. "I just...I can't trust him." Karen nods, her gaze understanding. "I get it," she says. "But maybe, just maybe, he's trying to be better." Plankton stays silent for a moment, his gaze fixed on the floor. He's not used to this, to feeling so exposed. He's spent his entire life hiding his autism from everyone, especially Krabs. And now, it's out there. His enemy knows his deepest vulnerability. With a sigh, he pushes himself up from the chair and heads to the bedroom, the solace of his small, controlled space. The doors clicks shut behind him, blocking out the sounds of Karen's kitchen and the distant laughter of passing fish. In the quiet, Plankton begins to stim. He rocks back and forth, his eye unfocused. The bedroom is a haven, his personal space filled with comforting items that help soothe his senses. He picks up his favorite fidget toy, the tiny plastic pieces clicking together in a rhythm that matches the beating of his heart. The repetitive motion calms him, centers him, as he tries to process the day's events. "Echo...echolal...lal...lal...la," Plankton murmurs to himself, his voice low and soothing. It's a word he heard earlier, a word that now holds a new meaning for him. He rolls it around his mouth, feeling the shape of it, the sound of it. It's a part of him now, a piece of his identity that he's still trying to understand.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 15 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! That same evening, Karen finds Krabs at the door. "What do you want?" She asks, her voice cool. But there's a desperation in his eyes that she's never seen before. "I-I want to talk to Plankton," he stammers. "I need to...apologize." Karen raises an eyebrow, surprise flickering across her screen. "What makes you think he'll want to talk to you?" Mr. Krabs' expression falls, his claws twitching nervously. "I know I've hurt him," he says, his voice cracking. "But I want to make it right." So he follows Karen in. Plankton sits in his room, his fidget toy clicking rhythmically. "Palilal...pali... lal...lal," he murmurs to the quiet space, as Karen and Krabs enter. The room's soft light highlights the intensity of his focus, his antennae twitching slightly with each word. Krabs watches him, his eyes filled with concern and curiosity. "What's going on, Plankton?" He asks. Plankton starts, his rhythm disrupted. He looks up, his face flushing with a mix of embarrassment and anger. "It's nothing," he says, his voice sharp. But Karen steps in, placing a gentle hand on Krabs' arm. "It's called echolalia," she explains softly. "It's a way for him to cope, to repeat words that have meaning to him. It's part of his autism." Krabs nods slowly, his expression still tinged with uncertainty. "I see," he says. "But I still need to apologize." Karen sighs, looking from Plankton to Krabs. "Fine," she says. "But you need to understand that Plankton's been through a lot today. Cut him some slack." Krabs nods again, his eyes never leaving Plankton's. "I'm so sorry," he says, his voice quiet. "I had no idea that you were...going through this." Plankton's eye narrows, his grip on the fidget toy tightening. "What do you want, Krabs?" He asks, his voice low. "An award for finally noticing?" He snaps before turning his focus back to the fidget. Krabs steps closer, his movement slow and deliberate. "No, Plankton," he says, his voice earnest. "I want to make amends. To learn. To do better." But Plankton seems to ignore him. "Echo...echolal...lal...la," Plankton whispers, his gaze fixed on the fidget toy. The words come out in a soft, soothing rhythm, a secret language that only he understands. Krabs watches, his heart heavy. He's hurt Plankton before, but never has seen this. The room is silent, the only noise the faint click of the plastic pieces in Plankton's hand. Krabs takes a deep breath, trying to find the words to bridge the gap that's formed between them. "I didn't know," he says, his voice tentative. "I never knew you...you had autism." Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye snapping up to meet Krabs' but he looks back down at his fidget toy, the rhythm of his murmurs increasing. "Echo...echolal...lal...la." Krabs fidgets, unsure of what to say. He's never seen Plankton like this before—so lost in his own world, so vulnerable. It's a stark contrast to the usual bravado and sarcasm that Plankton wields like a shield. "What does it mean?" He asks, his voice tentative. Plankton doesn't answer, the clicking of his fidget toy the only sound in the room. Krabs watches, his heart heavy with regret. He's always seen Plankton as a nuisance, someone to be defeated and humiliated. But now, he's just a small, hurt creature trying to make sense of a world that doesn't always make sense to him. "Uh, what about your arm Plankton?" "Echo...echolal...lal...la," Plankton repeats, his eye fixed on the fidget toy. The words roll off his tongue yet Krabs doesn't understand. Krabs' confusion grows as Plankton's murmurs fill the silence. It's a strange, almost hypnotic sound, a secret conversation that excludes everyone else. "What are you saying, Plankton?" He asks, his voice soft, tentative. But Plankton doesn't look up, lost in his own world of repetition and comfort. The words echo in the silence, a testament to his internal turmoil. "Echo... echolal...lal...la," he whispers, the fidget toy still clicking away. It's a self-soothing mechanism, a way to calm the storm in his brain. Krabs watches, his own mind racing. He's seen Plankton's quirks before, but this is something different. He's seen the anger, the sarcasm, the endless schemes. But this...this is Plankton's true self, raw and exposed. It's a side of him that no one ever gets to see other than Karen. The words keep coming, a stream of nonsense that seems to calm Plankton's racing thoughts. "Echo...echolal... lal...la," he murmurs, the rhythm never changing. Mr. Krabs feels like an intruder, watching a private moment he wasn't meant to see. Karen sighs, her hand moving to rest on Plankton's shoulder. "It's okay, honey," she says. But Plankton's focus is elsewhere, his eye glazed over. Krabs watches, his heart aching for the enemy he's hurt so many times. He's never seen this side of Plankton—the vulnerable, scared side that's now laid bare before him. "I'm sorry," he says again, his voice trembling. "I didn't know." Plankton's murmurs continue, his fidget toy a blur of motion in his hand. "Echo...echolal... lal...la." The words come faster now, a staccato beat of his thoughts. It's as if he's talking in code, a language that only he can understand. Mr. Krabs feels like an outsider, a clumsy giant in a delicate world of patterns and repetition. Karen's hand on his shoulder doesn't move, a silent offer of comfort that Plankton doesn't seem to notice. "It's ok," she repeats, her voice calm and steady. "You're safe here." Plankton's murmurs become louder, the words tripping over each other. "Echo...echolal...lal... la...echolal...lal...la..." His grip on the fidget toy tightens, his body rocking slightly on his bed. Mr. Krabs' heart clenches at the sight, his mind racing with questions and concerns. He's never seen Plankton like this—so lost in his own thoughts, so detached from the world around him. It's as if his mind has retreated into itself, seeking refuge from the pain and confusion. The words are a lifeline, a way to find comfort in the chaos. Krabs watches, his own mind racing. What does it mean? What has he done to make Plankton feel this way? He knows he's hurt him before, but this is different. This is deeper, more profound. It's not just about stealing a secret formula or winning a contest. This is personal. He opens his mouth to speak, but the words catch in his throat. What can he say to make this right? He's never faced a challenge like this, one that can't be solved with money or brawn. This requires understanding, empathy, and a willingness to learn. Krabs' eyes fill with tears as he watches Plankton's silent conversation with his fidget toy. "I-I just didn't know," he stammers. "I'll...I'll do better. I promise." But Plankton is lost in his own world, the words coming faster and faster. "Echo... echolal...lal...la...echolal... lal...la..." His voice rises in pitch, a frantic symphony of his inner thoughts. Karen's hand tightens on his shoulder, but Plankton seems oblivious to her touch. Krabs feels a pang of sorrow, his heart aching for the tiny creature in front of him. He's hurt him, and he's not sure how to fix it. "Plankton," he tries again, his voice gentler this time. "I'm here." But Plankton's world is one of repeating patterns and sounds, a place where the pain of the outside world can't reach him. "Echo...echolal...lal...la," he murmurs, the words tumbling out in a rush. It's a self-soothing mantra, a way to regain control in a world that feels out of control. Krabs' claws clench and unclench at his sides, his heart racing. He wants to help, but doesn't know how. He's always been so focused on the material, on winning, on defeating Plankton that he's never stopped to consider what's going on beneath the surface. He's never seen Plankton like this—so lost, so desperate. Krabs decides to try and connect. He clears his throat. "Plankton, what are you saying?" His voice is gentle, tentative, a stark contrast to the usual bluster. Plankton's murmurs don't cease, the words tumbling out like a stream of consciousness that makes no sense to anyone but him. "Echo...echolal...lal... la...echo...echolal..." Karen's grip on his shoulder tightens slightly, but she doesn't interrupt. She knows this is his way of coping, his method of navigating the storm in his mind. But Krabs is an outsider to this world, a blunt instrument in a place that requires finesse. But Krabs still wants to ask. "What does it mean, Plankton?" He ventures, his voice soft. "What are you trying to tell me?" He pleads, wanting to be welcomed into the autistic life he doesn't understand. But Plankton's words are for himself, a cocoon of comfort in the face of his enemy's curiosity. "Echo...echolal... lal...la...palilal...lal...la..." The words tumble out in a pattern that makes sense only to his own brain, a dance of self-expression in the chaos.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 1 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! In the aftermath of Plankton's science fair episode, Chip didn't want his dad to go through that again, so he decided it was time for a change. He approached his mom with the idea of switching schools. Karen listened, her eyes filled with empathy, and nodded. "You know, sweetie, sometimes change can be good. We'll look into it." The next day, Chip accompanied his parents to Hanna's house. Hanna, with her infectious energy, was eager to help. Chip couldn't help but overhear their conversation. "So, Karen, what's really going on with Plankton?" Karen took a deep breath and began to explain. "Well, Hanna, Plankton's autistic. It's like his brain works differently. He has these things called 'stims' that help him focus and stay calm, especially when he's overwhelmed." Hanna's eyes widened with understanding. "Oh, like when he was sick aft-" Karen gently cut her off. "Yes, it was related. It's all a part of his condition. But it's more than just that. His mind works in ways that we can't always understand. Sometimes it's like he's in his own little world, but it's a brilliant one." Plankton was swinging his legs as he sat by Karen, feeling awkward. He knew his brain was different, but he didn't like it being talked about outside of Karen. Hanna leaned in, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean, 'brilliant'?" "Well, you know how he can recall every single detail of his Krabby Patty recipe?" Karen said with a smile. "Or how he can fix anything in the restaurant with just a quick look? That's his autism at work. It's like he has these special powers, but sometimes it can be too much for him to handle." Chip watched Hanna nod, absorbing the information. He felt a mix of pride and protectiveness for his dad. "But what about the bad parts?" Hanna asked, her voice softening. "How do you deal with the... the tantrum..." The moment the word slipped out, Plankton's legs stopped swinging. His eye darted to Hanna, a flicker of anger crossing his face. Karen knew that look. Plankton didn't like the term "tantrum." It was a sore spot, something that made him feel less than. With a sigh, she turned to Hanna, placing a gentle hand on her friend's arm. "Let's call it a 'meltdown', okay?" "M-Meltdown?" Hanna stuttered, her cheery demeanor dimming. "It's a tantrum, right?" Plankton's eye narrowed, and his grip on his chair tightened. "It's not a tantrum, Hanna," Plankton spoke through gritted teeth, his voice low and firm. "It's a meltdown. There's a difference, you know‽" Hanna looked surprised, then embarrassed. "I'm sorry, Plankton. I didn't mean to-" But Plankton was beyond apologies. He shot up from his chair, his tiny fists balled at his sides. "You think I throw tantrums? That I'm a child who can't control himself?" The room grew tense as his voice escalated, his body trembling with frustration. "I'm not like that. I'm not a toddler!" Hanna took a step back, her hands up in a gesture of peace. "Plankton, I didn't mean-" But he was beyond words, his autistic brain flooded with sensory overload from the misunderstanding. Karen could see the panic in his eye, his body poised for fight or flight. Her heart ached for him, for the way the world often didn't understand. Chip stepped in, trying to diffuse the situation. "Dad, it's okay. Ms. Hanna just didn't know the right word." Karen moved swiftly to Plankton's side, her voice calm and soothing. "Honey, I know you're upset. Let's go to a quiet spot." She guided him to the corner of Hanna's kitchen. Hanna, eyes wide, looked at Karen for guidance. "I didn't mean to-" she started, but Karen held up a hand, cutting her off gently. "It's okay, Hanna. It's just a misunderstanding." In the quiet corner, Karen knelt beside him. "You're right, Plankton. It's not fair. But remember, she didn't know." Plankton's eye darted back to Hanna, who was now silent, watching them with a mixture of shock and guilt. Chip stood there, torn between his dad's fury and Hanna's ignorance. Hanna's cheery persona was gone, replaced by a look of genuine concern. She approached them cautiously. "I'm really sorry, Plankton. I didn't mean to upset you." Her eyes searched his for forgiveness. Plankton's chest heaved with anger, but he felt a twinge of compassion for her ignorance. He knew she didn't understand, but it didn't change the hurt she had caused. Karen's hand was warm and steadying on his shoulder. "Let's talk about this," she said softly. "You know Hanna didn't mean it that way." Plankton's breath was ragged as he tried to compose himself. He knew Karen was right, but the word had stung, bringing back memories of past judgments and misunderstandings. "I know," he managed to murmur, his voice strained. Hanna took another tentative step forward. "I'm here to learn, Plankton," she said with sincerity. "Tell me what I should kno—" But Plankton was already retreating into his own world, his eye glazed over as he tried to process the conversation. Karen stood up, her eyes never leaving his. "Why don't we give him a moment, Hanna?" She sat beside Plankton, who was now rocking back and forth. Hanna nodded, looking at them with a mix of confusion and remorse. "I didn't know," she whispered. "I just didn't know." In the quiet corner, Karen wrapped her arm around Plankton, holding him close. "It's ok," she repeated. "You're right, honey. It's not the same." Hanna leads them all to the couches in her living room. Plankton eased himself on a sofa opposite Hanna. He rocks back and forth in stimming. "Tantrum, tantrum, not a tantrum. Meltdown. Meltdown," he murmurs to himself. Plankton's voice grew softer. "Tantrum, no. Meltdown. Meltdown," he murmured, his eye unfocused. The stimming was a familiar sight by now, a comforting self-soothing technique that his brain needed in moments of stress. Hanna sat down beside him, mimicking the rocking motion in what she thought of was a silent offer of support. Plankton's gaze snapped to Hanna, his expression sharp. "What are you doing?" he demanded. The suddenness of his voice startled Hanna. "Just trying to help," she stuttered, unsure of herself. "Don't," he said firmly, his face flushing. "Don't mimic me." Karen stepped in, placing a hand on Hanna's shoulder. "It's ok," she assured her. "It can be uncomfortable when people do that. It's best to let him do his thing." Hanna nodded, her screen full of regret. "I'm sorry," she managed, looking at Plankton. But Plankton was already lost in a loop of words, echoing his own thoughts. "This isn't right, not right, not right," he whispered to himself. Hanna looks up, confused. "What isn't right, Plank-" "Don't talk to me," Plankton interrupted, his voice sharp. Karen took a seat next to Hanna, her hand resting gently on her knee. "Hanna, you see, stims are like Plankton's personal language. They're private, like someone's thoughts. It's how he speaks to his brain, how he tells it 'I'm safe, I'm okay'. It's not for us to join unless he asks us to." Hanna nodded slowly. "So, when I tried to... help him by doing what he does, it was like I was..." "Intruding. It's like if someone tried to finish your sentences or read your thoughts," Karen elaborated, her gaze softening as she watched Plankton. "It's his way of saying, 'This is how I process the world, and I need this space to do so.'" Hanna nodded, her screen reflecting the newfound knowledge. "I never thought of it that way," she murmured. "I just wanted to help." "I know you did," Karen smiled gently, patting her hand. "But sometimes, the best way to help is to give space. For him, stims are just as personal as a diary entry. They're his way of communicating to himself." Plankton's rocking grew softer, less frantic. Karen knew the signs of his brain starting to settle down. He was beginning to come back to them, but she didn't want to push it.

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████████████████████████████▓▓▓▓▓▓▓██▒▒▒▒▒▒▒░▓▒▓░░░░░░░░▒▓▓▓▓▓▓▒▒░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒▒░▒▒▒░░▒▒█▓▓▓ ████████████████████████████▓▓█▓▓██▓█▒▒▒▒▒▒░▒█▒▓░▓▒▒█▒░▒░▓▓▓▓▓▓█▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒▒░▒▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒▓▓ ████████████████████████████▓▓▓▓█▓▓▓█▒▓▒▒▒▒▒░▓▓▓░█▓▓██▒█▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▒▒░▒▒▒░░▒▒░░▒▓

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 18 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! The silence stretches out, comfortable and filled with a newfound respect. Plankton's antennae twitch slightly in his sleep, as if even in his dreams, he's still trying to process the world around him. The next day, Krabs goes to visit Karen and Plankton again in the morning. The room is bathed in soft, early-morning light, and Plankton is still asleep. His breathing is slow and even, the plush octopus a comforting presence beside him. Krabs watches him, his heart swelling with a strange mixture of emotions—fear, sorrow, and a newfound respect. He turns to Karen, his claws fidgeting with a nervous energy. "How can I know when a seizure is coming?" He asks, his voice hushed so as not to disturb the sleeping Plankton. "What if I can't tell the difference?" Karen smiles, her eyes warm with understanding. "It's ok," she says. "You'll learn." She reaches over to gently touch Plankton's arm. "The signs can be subtle. Maybe his eye will glaze over usually. But the most important thing is to be patient and to listen." Krabs nods, his claws stilling. "What about his stims?" He asks, his voice soft. "When he says things or makes those sounds? I mean, does he-" Karen cuts him off gently. "It's important not to interrupt his stims, Krabs," she explains. "They're a personal way for him to self-regulate, to process the world around him." She looks at him, her screen kind. "But if you're really curious, the best thing to do is ask him, when he's feeling comfortable and ready to talk." Krabs nods, his mind whirling with questions. He's always been so focused on the now, on the chase for the next big score, that he's never stopped to consider the complexities of someone else's experience. But now, sitting here in this quiet room, watching his enemy sleep peacefully, he can't help but feel a shameful curiosity about the person Plankton is underneath the surface. "What about his obsession with the Krabby Patty?" He whispers to Karen, his voice barely above a murmur. "Is that part of it too?" Karen nods, a knowing smile on her screen. "It's not just an obsession, Krabs. It's a special interest. It's how Plankton's brain processes information. For some autistic people, it's a way to focus and find comfort in a world that can be chaotic." Krabs' eyes widen, his mind racing. "So...his quest to steal the recipe isn't just about greed?" Karen sighs, her gaze softening. "It's about more than that. It's about understanding something that gives him comfort, and having control over it." Krabs nods, his mind whirling with the depth of what he's learning. "So, his stims, his words, they're his way of...finding order?" Karen smiles, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "In a sense, yes. Autism is a spectrum, Krabs. We all have our quirks, but for some, those quirks are their lifeline." She strokes Plankton's antennae. "His brain is wired differently, and these things are his way of making sense of the world." Krabs nods, his gaze firmly on Plankton. "What can I do to help?" He asks, his voice soft, earnest. "How can I be a better...friend?" Karen's smile blooms fully. "Just be there," she repeats, her voice a gentle caress. "Learn his cues, his triggers. Give him space when he needs it, and support when he reaches out." Karen's hand moves to Plankton's, their fingers interlocking. "And also, don't be afraid to enjoy the little things," she whispers. "His laugh, his excitement—those are just as much a part of who he is as his challenges." Krabs nods, his gaze never leaving Plankton's sleeping face. "I'll try," he promises, his voice thick with emotion. "I just want to be there for him." Karen's smile is gentle, her eyes warm. "I know you do," she says. "And he'll know it too, in his own way." She pauses, considering her next words. "You might find that your friendship will change," she adds. "But if you're patient, it could be more beautiful than you ever imagined." Krabs nods, his gaze never leaving Plankton's slumbering form. He can't help but feel a sense of awe at the strength it must take to live in a world that's not always understanding. "I want to learn," he murmurs. "I want to make things right." Karen looks at him, her eyes filled with warmth. "Then you already have," she says. "Just by being here, by asking, you're showing you care." Krabs leans forward, his curiosity piqued. "What else can you tell me?" He asks, his voice eager. "What types of things does he like? Or what sets him off?" Karen looks at him, her expression a blend of patience and understanding. "Well, he's quite sensitive to certain textures and sounds." Krabs leans in, his eyes shining with curiosity. "Like what?" He asks, eager to know more. "Certain loud, sudden noises can trigger his overstimulation," Karen continues, her eyes never leaving Plankton's sleeping form. "And some touches, like a pat on the back, might feel like a punch to him. But he's also quite fond of soft textures, like the one of this blanket," she says, running a finger over the plush material. Krabs nods, his gaze thoughtful. "I've noticed he doesn't like when SpongeBob squeezes him too hard." He chuckles softly, the memory of Plankton's exasperation at the overly-enthusiastic sponge still vivid. "But he doesn't seem to mind your touch.." Karen smiles, her eyes knowing. "It's all about consent," she says, her voice calm and even. "We all have our preferences, but for Plankton, it's more than just a preference—it's a need." Krabs nods, his gaze still on Plankton. He's always been so focused on his own desires, so used to getting what he wants that he's never really stopped to think about what others need. "How do I know when he's overwhelmed?" He whispers, his voice filled with a newfound respect. Karen looks at him, her expression gentle. "You'll learn his cues," she says. "It's about being observant, noticing when his breathing changes or his body tenses up." She pauses, her thumb stroking Plankton's arm. "But it's also about asking, Krabs. Communication is key."

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𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 19 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! "How do I know if he needs space or if he wants me to stay?" Karen's smile is gentle, her expression filled with patience. "Look for the signs," she whispers. "If he starts to repeat his words, or if his body language changes, it might be his way of saying 'I'm feeling overwhelmed.'" She takes a deep breath, her eyes never leaving Plankton's sleeping form. "And always ask before you touch him, or before you change anything in his environment." Krabs nods, his gaze intently on Karen. "What if he's in the middle of a...uh, stimming episode?" He stammers, his claws fidgeting nervously. Karen's eyes are filled with compassion as she looks at him. "Then you wait," she says, her voice soft. "Let him finish what he's doing, and then you can approach, gently. But always ask, 'Is it okay if I talk to you now?' Give him the power to choose." Suddenly, Plankton shifts in his sleep, his antennae twitching slightly. Karen's hand tightens around his. "It's ok," she whispers, her voice soothing. Mr. Krabs holds his breath, his heart racing. Mr. Krabs watches, his eyes widening. "Is he ok?" He whispers, his concern genuine. Karen nods, her smile reassuring. "He's just waking up," she says. Plankton's eye opens, slowly focusing on Krabs. His gaze is vacant for a moment, before recognition dawns. "K...Krabs," he murmurs, his voice slurred. Mr. Krabs nods, his heart racing. "I'm here, Plankton," he says, his voice shaky. Karen watches the interaction with hope. "How are you feeling?" She asks. Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye darting to the side. "Tired," he whispers, his hand still clutching the plush octopus. Karen nods, her expression filled with understanding. "That's ok," she says. "You had a big day yesterday." Plankton nods. Krabs watches, his heart in his throat. He feels like an intruder in this intimate moment, but something keeps his claws from retreating. He wants to be a part of this, to understand. Plankton's gaze moves to him, his expression wary. "Krabs," he says. He pulls the octopus closer, as if it's a shield. Krabs' heart squeezes at the sight. He's always seen Plankton as a formidable adversary, not as someone who needs protection. But now, with his antennae drooping and his eye half-closed, he seems so... vulnerable. "I came to check on you," Krabs says, his voice gentle. Plankton's antennae twitch again, but he doesn't pull away. He's still wary, but there's something in his gaze that suggests he's considering. "Krabs is trying to be a better friend, Plankton," Karen says. "He's here to learn." Plankton's gaze lingers on Krabs, his antennae still. Karen's seen Plankton push people away, not out of spite, but out of self-preservation. Krabs nods, his eyes meeting Plankton's. "It's true," he says, his voice earnest. "I want to underst--" Plankton's antennae shoot up, cutting him off. "Don't," he murmurs, his voice tight. "Don't pretend." Krabs' eyes widen, his heart sinking. "I'm not pretending," he says, his claws spreading in a gesture of openness. "I just wan-" But Plankton's already turning away, his antennae drooping. "Please," he whispers, his voice small and scared. Krabs feels a pang of guilt. He's always been so quick to dismiss Plankton's behaviors, so eager to win their endless rivalry. But here, in this quiet room, he's seeing his enemy in a new light. "Ok," he says softly, his voice barely above a whisper. "What can I do?" Karen's eyes are filled with warmth as she looks at Krabs. "Just be patient," she says. "Give him the time he needs to process what's happening." Krabs nods, his gaze on Plankton. He watches as his enemy shifts, the plush octopus still clutched tightly in his hand. He can see the exhaustion etched into his face, the weight of the world he's been carrying alone. "I'm here," Krabs murmurs, his claws hovering over the blanket. "I won't preten—" Plankton's antennae shoot up again, his eye snapping back to Krabs. "No," he whispers, his voice firm. "Don't touch." It's not a request, but a command. Krabs pulls his claws back, his heart racing. "Too much." Krabs freezes, his heart stopping in his chest. Karen's eyes are filled with sadness as she looks at her husband. "It's ok, Plankton," she says, her voice a gentle caress. "Mr. Krabs is just trying to be a good friend." But Plankton's eye squeezed shut, his hand tightening around the octopus. And then, without meaning to, Mr. Krabs' claw brushes against Plankton's hand. It's the lightest of touches, a mistake born of nerves and eagerness. Plankton's body tenses, his antennae shooting up as his eye snaps wide open. Krabs freezes. He's done it now—invaded the sacred space around Plankton. But then, something strange happens. Plankton's gaze goes glassy, his body still. Krabs' breath hitches, his mind racing. What's happening? Is this another type of seizure? He looks to Karen for guidance, but she's already leaning in. "It's ok," she murmurs, her voice low and soothing. "You're having a seizure, honey." Plankton's unblinking eye stares into space, his body still as a statue. Krabs has never seen him like this— so vulnerable, so lost. He wants to help, but he's not sure how. "It's an absence seizure," Karen explains, her voice a soothing melody. "He's not really here right now." Karen's voice is steady. "It's ok, Plankton," she whispers, her hand gentle on his shoulder. "You're having an absence seizure. It's going to be ok." Krabs' eyes widen as he takes in the scene. Plankton's body is rigid, his single eye unblinking, staring into nothingness. It's like his soul has left his body for a brief moment, leaving behind an empty shell. Karen's voice is calm and steady as she speaks to Plankton. "It's ok, sweetie. You're having an absence seizure. Just ride it out." Krabs feels like he's intruding on a sacred moment, yet he can't bring himself to leave. Plankton's unblinking eye stares through Krabs, his body unmoving. Krabs wants to get him out of this trance, so he leans in, his claws reaching out to shake his shoulder. But Karen's hand is quicker, her touch firm but gentle. "No, don't," she says, her voice firm yet kind. "It's not helpful to startle him." Krabs pulls back, his claws hovering in midair. "Let me handle this," she says. "Just...stay calm." Krabs nods, his claws retracting. He watches as Karen gently strokes Plankton's cheek, her eyes never leaving his. "Come back to us," she whispers. "You're safe here." The room seems to shrink around them, the tension palpable. Krabs can almost feel Plankton's brain racing, his thoughts a whirlwind he can't quite reach. He wants to shout, to break the spell, but he knows that would only make things worse. So he decides to try to interact with Plankton in a different way. He pulls out his pocket watch, the one with the tiny krabby patty charm. It's always brought him comfort, but he's never shared it with anyone before. "Look, Plankton," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's a kinda like your Krabby Patty obsession, huh?" But then Krabs spots the octopus plush. "You like octopus, right?" Krabs asks, his voice shaking with nerves. "This one's...it's pretty cool. Do you see it?" He holds up the plushie, his heart racing, his eyes on Plankton's unseeing gaze. "Look at this, Plankton," he says. "It's like your Krabby Patty, but with more arms." He forces a chuckle, trying to infuse some lightness into the heavy air. Karen nods slightly, encouraging him to keep talking.

𝖳𝖮 𝖢𝖧𝖠𝖭𝖦𝖤 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖶𝖮𝖱𝖫𝖣 pt. 20 Sequel to Autism And All by NeuroFabulous https://emojicombos.com/autism-and-all Read the Autism And All one first! Krabs' voice wavers slightly as he holds up the plush octopus. "Look, it's got eight arms," he says, his eyes desperate for a sign of recognition. "It can hug you like the Krabby Patty does. Can you feel it?" For a moment, there's nothing. The room seems to hold its breath, waiting. Then, slowly, Plankton's hand unclenches, his antennae twitching slightly. Krabs' heart soars—it's working. "That's it," Karen murmurs, her voice a gentle coax. "Good job, Plankton." Mr. Krabs' voice is soft. "Do you see it?" He asks, his voice filled with hope. Karen's hand tightens around Krabs' claw. "Keep talking," she whispers. "It's helping him ground himself." Krabs nods, his throat tight. "It's got a smile," he says, his voice gentle. "Just like the Krabby Patty does." He watches as Plankton's hand twitches slightly, his antennae still unmoving. Krabs' heart leaps. "Can you feel the texture?" He asks, his voice hopeful. "It's all soft and fluffy, like your favorite pillow." Plankton's hand moves slightly, his fingers brushing against the octopus. Krabs feels a jolt of excitement. "That's it," he says, his voice filled with wonder. "You're getting there." Karen's grip on relaxes a fraction. "Good," she murmurs. "Keep it up." Krabs watches as Plankton's fingers twitch, the plush octopus's tentacles wrapping around his hand. He can see the effort it's taking to come back to them. "It's ok buddy," Krabs whispers, his voice barely audible. "You're ok." Plankton's antennae twitch again, and Krabs feels his heart clench. Is he getting through? Is Plankton hearing him? Krabs' claw is poised above the octopus plush, his breath shallow. "Just keep focusing on the octopus," he urges, his throat tight. "It's got a smile for you, waiting for you to see it." Plankton's unblinking eye doesn't waver, but his hand starts to move, the tentacles of the octopus slipping through his fingers. It's a subtle movement, one that speaks volumes in the silent room. Krabs' heart races. It's working. He's reaching him. Karen's eyes are glued to Plankton's face, her expression a mix of hope and fear. "Good job, Plankton," she whispers, her voice a gentle coax. "You're doing so well." Krabs' heart races as he watches Plankton's hand start to move, the octopus plush coming into focus for his friend. "You got it," he says, his voice a soft murmur. "Just keep holding on." Karen's grip on his claw loosens, her eyes never leaving her husband's face. Mr. Krabs can feel her energy, but there's also something else—pride. "You're doing great, Krabs," she whispers, her voice barely a breath. "Keep going; it's helping him faster." Krabs' eyes never leave Plankton's unseeing stare. "It's ok, buddy," he says, his voice steady. "You're safe here; right, Mr. Octopus? Yes, you are." Plankton's hand tightens around the octopus, the fabric tentacles wrapping around his fingers like a comforting embrace. It's a sign, a flicker of connection. "Look," Krabs says, his voice a whisper. "It's ok. We're here. Mr. Octopus is here." Karen's eyes are filled with relief as she sees the tiny movements of Plankton's fingers, the subtle way his hand relaxes into the softness of the plush. "You're doing it," she murmurs, her voice a gentle cheer. "Come back to us, sweetie." Krabs' eyes never leave Plankton's. He doesn't dare to move, to breathe too loudly. He's scared of breaking the spell, of losing him again. But he can see the change, the way Plankton's body starts to soften, the tension draining from his frame. "Look, Plankton," he whispers, his voice filled with wonder. "Mr. Octopus is smiling at you." Plankton's antennae twitch, barely a centimeter. But it's enough. It's a sign of life, a crack in the wall of his unresponsive state. Mr. Krabs keeps his voice low, his movements slow. "You're ok," he repeats, his claw hovering over the octopus's head. "You're right here with us." Karen's grip on Mr. Krabs' arm tightens, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "Keep talking," she whispers, her voice barely audible. "Keep his mind here." Krabs nods, his throat tight. "You like Krabby Patties, right?" He asks, his claws holding the octopus steady. "Mr. Octopus here has a smile just for you." He watches as Plankton's antennas twitch slightly. It's a small victory, but it's enough to keep him going. "You know what, Plankton?" He says, his voice a gentle rumble. "I bet Mr. Octopus could make a Krabby Patty with all those arms. Can you let Mr. Octopus make you feel better?" Plankton's hand moves slightly, his fingers flexing around the plush. Krabs feels a surge of hope. "That's it," he whispers. "Let him help you." The silence stretches on, Krabs' heart pounding in his chest. Then, ever so slowly, Plankton's antennae begin to move, the unblinking eye finally blinking once, twice. Karen's grip loosens, a tear slipping down her screen. "He's coming back," she murmurs, her voice hopeful. Plankton's unfocused gaze is still distant, though settling on the octopus. Krabs nods, his own claws trembling with relief. He keeps his voice low, his words carefully chosen. "Remember, Plankton," he says, his voice a gentle wave. "Mr. Octopus is your friend." Plankton's single eye flutters, and Krabs can almost see the wheels turning in his mind. Plankton's voice, when it comes, is faint. "K-Krabby Patty," he stammers. Krabs' heart jumps at the sound, a flicker of hope igniting within him. He nods encouragingly. "That's right, buddy; Mr. Octopus has a Patty for you." Karen's eyes are filled with relief as she watches the interaction unfold. She knows how rare it is for Plankton to speak during his seizures, and the significance isn't lost on Krabs. "Tell us about it," Krabs says, his voice gentle. "Tell Mr. Octopus about the Krabby Patty." Plankton's voice is slurred, his words coming in fits and starts. "It's...it's octopus," he says, his voice a distant echo. "So...octopus." His hand tightens around the plush octopus. Krabs' heart swells with hope. He's getting through. "That's right," Krabs whispers, his voice a soft caress. "Mr. Octopus is an octopus, and waiting for you.." Plankton's eye starts to move, focusing on the plush octopus. "Octopus," he repeats, his voice slurred but insistent. "Waiting." Krabs nods, his claws gently stroking the octopus's fabric. "Mr. Octopus is waiting for you to feel better," he says. "You can do it, honey," Karen whispers. "You're almost there." Plankton's eye blinks slowly, coming back into focus. He looks down at the plush octopus, his hand still clutching it tightly. "Octopus," he murmurs, his voice a mere breath. Krabs' heart swells with relief. "You're ok," he says, his voice softer than he's ever heard it. "You're ok, Plankton." Plankton's antennae twitch, his gaze flickering between the octopus and Mr. Krabs. "What...what's going on?" He asks, his voice shaky. Karen quickly steps in, her voice a soothing balm. "You had a seizure, sweetie," she says. "But you're ok now." Plankton's eye darts around the room, his mind trying to piece together the fragments of the last few minutes. Krabs watches him, his heart aching. He's never seen his rival so vulnerable, so lost. "You're at home," Krabs adds, his voice careful. "We're all here for you." Plankton's gaze finally settles on him, confusion swimming in his eye. "What...what happened?" He stammers. Karen moves closer, her hand on Plankton's shoulder. "You had an absence seizure," she explains, her tone gentle. "Do you remember anything?" Plankton's eye blinks rapidly, his antennae twitching. "Tck tck," he tics. "It's like...it's like I was tck tck somewhere else." Krabs nods, his claws still trembling with nervous energy. "It's ok," he says, his voice a gentle wave. "We're here for you." Plankton's gaze is unfocused, his antennae twitching erratically. "Tck tck," he repeats, his voice filled with confusion. "But what...what?" Krabs takes a deep breath, his heart going out to his usually confident rival. "You had a seizure, buddy," he says, his tone as gentle as he can manage. "But you're ok now." He holds up the plush octopus. "You know the octopus here? He helped you through it." Plankton's antennae still, his gaze locking onto the octopus with a flicker of recognition. "Tck tck," he whispers, his voice still shaky. "Mr. Octopus." Krabs nods, feeling a wave of emotion he can't quite name. "He's your friend, remember?" Karen squeezes Plankton's shoulder, her eyes filled with reassurance. "You're safe," she says. "You had a seizure, but you're ok now." Plankton's eye widens, his hand tightening around the plush. "But...but I don't understand," he stammers. Krabs nods, his own claws tight around the plushie. "It's ok," he says, his voice steady. "It's just a toy, but it helped you feel better." Plankton's gaze flickers between Krabs and the octopus, his mind racing. "Why...why is Mr. Krabs being nice?" He asks, his voice filled with suspicion. Karen's smile is soft. "Because he cares about you, Plankton," she says. "We all do." Mr. Krabs clears his throat, his voice still gentle. "I know I haven't always been the best, but I'm trying to understand. I want to help." Plankton's expression relaxes, a hint of skepticism replaced by curiosity. "You...you do?" He asks, his voice growing stronger. Mr. Krabs nods, feeling his heart swell. "Yeah," he says; "I do."

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KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY iv (Autistic author) Sandy feels the full weight of her words crash down upon her. The accusations she had thrown at Plankton now felt like sharp stones in her own stomach. Her mind reels as she tries to comprehend what she had just learned. Autism? Plankton? How could she have been so blind, so cruel? Her gaze falls to the floor, avoiding Karen's. "I'm so sorry," she whispers, her voice thick with guilt. "I didn't know." Karen nods, her own emotions swirling. "But we need to be more careful with him." Sandy's eyes are glued to the floor, her tail flicking nervously. "I didn't mean to hurt him," she says, her voice small and ashamed. "I just thought he was being weird." Karen nods, understanding. "I know," she says, her voice gentle. "But now we know better, and we have to help him." She moves towards the bedroom, her steps determined. "Let's go check on him." They enter the room quietly. Karen's optical sensors scan his tiny form, noticing the slight rise and fall of his chest. He's asleep, she realizes, exhausted from the emotional turmoil. Sandy's gaze follows hers, her expression a mix of regret and curiosity. She's never seen Plankton like this before, his features softer, almost peaceful in repose. "Is he okay?" she asks, her voice a whisper. Karen nods, her hand reaching out to touch his shoulder. "He's sleeping," she says, her voice filled with tenderness. "It's been a big day for him." Sandy steps closer, her gaze taking in Plankton's sleeping features. His face, usually twisted with plotting and schemes, is now slack with exhaustion. His eye, usually alive with cunning, is closed, and his breaths come in deep, even snores, his mouth slightly agape. "What do we do now?" Sandy asks, her voice hushed. Karen sits beside him on the bed, her hand still on his shoulder. "We help him," she says, her voice firm. "We learn about his autism and how we can support him." They spend the next few moments in silence, the air heavy with the weight of what has been said. Karen's hand continues to gently stroke Plankton's shoulder. Sandy sits down on the opposite side of the bed. Her gaze is fixed on Plankton, her thoughts racing. She had known him for so long, and yet she had never considered this possibility. "What does this mean for him?" she whispers, her voice filled with concern. Karen sighs, her hand still stroking Plankton's shoulder. "It means we'll have to make some changes," she says softly. "He'll need routines, and patience, and understanding." Sandy nods, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I can do that," she says, her voice filled with determination. "But what about... us?" Karen looks up, her gaze meeting Sandy's. "What do you mean?" she asks, her hand pausing in its soothing motion. Sandy swallows, her eyes still on Plankton. "Our friendship," she says. "How do we handle this without making him feel... different?" Karen nods, understanding her concern. "We just need to be there for him," she says. "He's still the same Plankton, just with some new challenges." They sit in silence for a moment, the only sound the rhythm of Plankton's snores. Sandy reaches out tentatively, her paw hovering over his arm. "Is it ok to touch him?" she asks. Karen nods. "Yes, Sandy. Just be gentle," she whispers. Sandy's paw touches Plankton's arm, her touch light and tentative. He stirs slightly, but doesn't wake. She leaves her paw there, offering comfort without intrusion. Karen watches them with a mix of love and fear for the future. Plankton's autism was still a mystery to them, a labyrinth they were just beginning to navigate. She knows it won't be easy, but she's determined to be by his side. "We're a team," she says, squeezing Plankton's shoulder. Sandy nods, her gaze never leaving Plankton's sleeping form. "A team," she repeats, her voice filled with resolve. For the first time since the diagnosis, the three of them are united in a common goal: to understand and support Plankton as he navigates his new reality. Sandy and Karen exchange a look, each one filled with a determination that mirrors the other. They've been friends through thick and thin, through Krabby Patty heists and jellyfish stings, and now they're facing a challenge none of them had ever anticipated. Sandy's paw remains on Plankton's arm, her touch steady and reassuring. Plankton stirred, his sleep disturbed by the unfamiliar weight of Sandy's paw on his arm. His eye fluttered open, and he was met with the sight of Sandy and Karen, their faces contorted with a mix of concern and confusion. He sat up quickly, his body jolting with fear. "Plankton, it's ok," Karen soothes, her hand reaching out to calm him. "You're safe." "Karen sad?" he asks, his voice cracking. Sandy's paw tightens on his arm, which makes Plankton feel uncomfortable enough to get him to snap at her. "What Sandy want?" he asks, his voice sharp, his body tense with anxiety. Sandy's eyes fill with tears. "I didn't mean to make you upset," she says, her voice shaking. "I just didn't know." Plankton's gaze flits between them, trying to read their expressions, but his brain struggles to interpret their complex emotions. "Karen sad?" he repeats, his voice a mix of fear and confusion. Karen's hand moves to cover Sandy's, her grip firm but gentle. "No, Plankton," she says, her voice soothing. "We're just concerned about you." Sandy takes a deep breath, forcing back her tears. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't mean to hurt you." Plankton's gaze flickers between them, his mind racing to understand the situation. "No hurt," he says, his voice shaky. "Sandy say Karen sad. No sad." Karen's circuits pulse with a mixture of relief and sadness. "Sandy didn't mean it, Plankton," she says, her voice filled with compassion. "We're all just trying to understand what's happening." Sandy's eyes are cast down, her paws fidgeting in her lap. "I'm sorry," she murmurs, her voice heavy with regret. "I didn't know." She grabs Plankton in a hug, unaware of how the tight embrace might feel to him. Plankton stiffens, his senses getting overwhelmed. "No touch," he says, his voice tight. Sandy quickly releases him, her eyes wide with apology. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice trembling. "I just wanted to help." Karen nods, her gaze softening. "We all do," she says. "But we have to learn how to help in ways that don't overwhelm him." Plankton's eye darts around the room, with the need to regulate himself. He starts to rock in a rhythmic motion, a self-soothing behavior his new autism craves. The sensation of his own movements helps to calm the storm of thoughts and emotions swirling within him. Karen notices the change immediately and nods understandingly. "It's ok, Plankton," she says, her voice gentle. "You do what you need to do." Sandy watches, her curiosity piqued by the rhythmic rocking "What's he doing?" she asks, her voice hushed. Karen sighs, her gaze filled with understanding. "It's his way of self-soothing," she explains. "It's called stimming." Sandy's eyes widen, taking in Plankton's rhythmic rocks. "Stimming?" she repeats. "What's that?" Karen nods, her voice calm and patient. "It's a way for him to regulate his sensory input," she explains. "It helps him feel safe and in control." Sandy watches. He starts to hum, a low buzz that resonates in the quiet room, his way of finding comfort in the chaos of his thoughts. "It's ok," Karen whispers, her hand on his shoulder. "We're here." Plankton's eye lock onto her hand, the pressure of her touch offering a semblance of comfort. He starts to rock back and forth again. The movement calms him slightly. Sandy watches. She had never seen Plankton like this before. The sharpness of her words from earlier stings her now, as she realizes the depth of his distress. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice quiet. "I didn't know." Plankton's humming turns to a soft melody, his body still moving in a soothing pattern. The words echo in his head, a reminder of the world's expectations he can never quite meet. Sandy watches him, her own world now forever changed. She had always known Plankton to be eccentric, but this was different. This was real. Her mind reels with questions and fears. How would this affect their friendship? Could they ever return to the easy banter they once shared? Would he still be the same friend she had always known? But as she watches him stim, the reality of the situation starts to set in. Plankton was still Plankton, but with a new set of rules and a new way of seeing the world. Sandy makes a silent vow to learn those rules, to understand his world as much as he had tried to understand hers.

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KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY ix (Autistic author) Plankton's smile flickers back to life, his eye lighting up slightly. "Good," he says, a monotone echo. "Friend." Sponge Bob nods, his smile genuine despite the sadness still lingering in his eyes. "Always," he says, his voice filled with warmth. "Well, what should we do now?" Plankton's gaze shifts to the book, then to Sponge Bob. "Movie," he says, his voice picking up a hint of excitement. "Friend watch movie." His hands flap in a pattern that seems to mirror his thoughts racing. Sponge Bob's smile is a mix of relief and excitement. "Movie?" he repeats, his eyes lighting up. "Yeah, let's watch a movie! What do you want to see?" Plankton's eye dart around the room, his hands flapping in a flurry of indecision. "You choose," he says, his voice a monotone. "You know me." His antennas twitch with anticipation. Sponge Bob's smile is filled with understanding. "Okay, then," he says, his voice calm. He scans the bookshelf, looking for a title that might spark Plankton's interest. "How about this one?" he asks, holding up a DVD case with a picture of the Dirty Bubble on the front. Plankton's antennas perk up, eyelighting up at the sight of the villainous bubble's grinning face. "Yes," he says, his voice a monotone. "Dirty Bubble." His hands flap in excitement. Sponge Bob's heart squeezes with love and concern for his unique friend. "Alright, Plankton," he says, his voice gentle. "Let's watch 'The Great Dirty Bubble Heist'." He pops the DVD into the player, the machine whirring to life. The two of them settle on the couch, Sponge Bob's arm draped protectively around Plankton's shoulder. Plankton's hands are still, his gaze fixed on the screen as the movie starts. The TV flickers to life, casting a warm glow over the room. Sponge Bob feels Plankton's body relax slightly against his side, his eyes never leaving the colorful bubble of the Dirty Bubble's latest escapade. As the movie plays, Plankton's flapping subsides, his gaze transfixed by the screen. The sounds of bubbles popping and laughter fill the room, a stark contrast to the silence that typically accompanied their stakeouts at the Chum Bucket. Sponge Bob feels Plankton's body relax further into the couch, his shoulder leaning into him. He notices Plankton's antennas twitch slightly with every joke, his eye flickering with understanding at the slapstick humor. It's a small sign of connection, but it's enough. The movie's plot unfolds, and Plankton's chuckles echo through the room, his laughter a comforting reminder of their long-standing friendship. Sponge Bob smiles, watching Plankton react to the familiar beats of the film's storyline. It's clear his friend's love for the simple pleasure of laughter hasn't changed. As the film progresses, Plankton's chuckles grow softer, his eyelid drooping as he's nestled against Sponge Bob. He's falling asleep, his mind finally at ease in the comforting embrace of his friend. His head lolls to the side, his antennas coming to rest on Sponge Bob's arm. His mouth has fall open slightly, his breaths even and deep. Sponge Bob's heart swells with tenderness, watching Plankton's face. He gently shifts his position, adjusting the small blanket over Plankton to keep him warm. The TV's light continues to flicker across their faces, casting shadows on the walls. Sponge Bob doesn't want to wake him; instead, he takes the moment to study his friend's newfound peace. Plankton's antennas, usually a blur of activity, are still, his breaths deep and rhythmic. Sponge Bob notices the slightest tremble in his friend's hand, now resting on the couch cushion. He gently takes it in his, intertwining their fingers. Their friendship remains a bastion of comfort and acceptance. The TV echoes in the room, punctuating the silence between them. Sponge Bob feels Plankton's body relax further into the couch, his head now resting heavily against his shoulder. Plankton's laughter has turned to soft snores, his antenna twitching with each breath he takes. Karen peeks into the room, and sees Plankton asleep against Sponge Bob's side. She goes closer, wanting to make sure Plankton is ok. She feels warmth seeing their friendship unchanged by his diagnosis. Sponge Bob, ever the caretaker, has his arm around Plankton, his hand over Plankton's, their fingers intertwined. Karen smiles softly with pride. This moment of peace, despite the turmoil, shows their unyielding bond. "You guys okay?" she asks, her voice a gentle whisper. Sponge Bob nods. "Yeah, Karen," he says, his voice low. "We're just watching a movie." Karen's smile is filled with warmth as she steps closer. "I can see that," she whispers. "How is he?" Sponge Bob's gaze shifts to her, his smile a mix of relief and sadness. "Different," he says, his voice soft. "But still Plankton." Karen nods with understanding. "He's been through a lot," she says, her voice a gentle whisper. "But he's strong, and he has his friends." She sits down on the couch, her hand reaching out to rest on Plankton's leg. Her touch is light, comforting. Plankton's body twitches slightly in his sleep, his antennae stirring. Sponge Bob squeezes Plankton's hand gently. "You're ok, buddy," he murmurs, his voice a soft reassurance. Karen sits down beside them, gaze on Plankton's serene expression. "I'm here," she says, her voice soft. "Always." She reaches out, her hand resting on Plankton's knee. The touch penetrates his subconscious, his antennae twitching slightly in response. Sponge Bob nods. "Thanks, Karen," he whispers, his voice filled with gratitude. "I'm still trying to get used to this new Plankton." Karen's expression is one of quiet understanding. "It's ok," she says, her voice a soothing balm. "It's a lot to process, but you're doing great." She looks down at Plankton, his small form snuggled against Sponge Bob. "He's lucky to have you," she whispers. Sponge Bob nods, his voice thick with emotion. "But it's hard to see him like this." His eyes well with tears, his grip on Plankton's hand tightening. Karen's gaze is filled with compassion as she looks at Plankton. She reaches over, her hand gently brushing his cheek. "He's still the same Plankton," she whispers. "He's just learning to navigate a new part of himself." Sponge Bob nods, his eyes still fixed on the TV. "I know," he says, his voice tight. "But it's so...different." His eyes flicker with unshed tears. Karen's gaze remains on Plankton's peaceful face, her hand still on his knee. "It is," she says, her voice soft. "But different isn't bad, Sponge Bob." She looks at him, her eyes filled with a gentle wisdom. "It's just new. And sometimes, new things take getting used to." Sponge Bob nods. "I know," he says, his voice a whisper. "It's just..." He pauses, his thoughts racing. "It's just that I want to be there for him, you know?" His voice cracks, his grip on Plankton's hand becoming stronger. Karen nods with empathy. "I know you do, Sponge Bob," she says, her voice soft. "And you are." She reaches over, placing a comforting hand on Sponge Bob's shoulder. "You just need to be patient with him, and with yourself. We're all learning together." The TV laugh track fades into silence as the movie reaches its end. Plankton's snores remain steady, a testament to his sleep. Sponge Bob sighs, his eyes finally leaving the screen. He looks down at their joined hands. "I'll be patient," he murmurs, his voice barely audible. "For you, Plankton." His eyes meet Karen's, a silent promise passing between them. "I know you will," she says, her voice a gentle encouragement. "You've always been a good friend." The room is quiet, save for Plankton's soft snores. Sponge Bob's eyes remain on the TV, his thoughts spinning. Karen's words echo in his head: different isn't bad, just new. He looks down at Plankton. He tries to imagine a world where Plankton doesn't have autism, but the thought feels wrong. This new version of his friend is still Plankton, still the same in so many ways. Their bond is strong, their friendship unchanged. He squeezes Plankton's hand, his thoughts racing. "I'll be there for you," he whispers, his voice a promise. "We'll figure this out together." Plankton's snores hitch slightly, his antenna twitching in his sleep. Sponge Bob's filled with a newfound determination. He'll be there for Plankton, no matter what. His heart swells as he leans down, his lips brushing Plankton's forehead in a soft kiss. The room is a cocoon of quiet, their friendship a beacon in the stillness. Karen watches them, her heart heavy but hopeful. "Let's get him to bed," she says, her voice a gentle whisper. Sponge Bob nods, his movements careful as he lifts Plankton into his arms. Plankton's eye flutter open briefly, his gaze confused but quickly calming at the sight of Sponge Bob's smiling face. "Tired," Plankton murmurs, his voice sleepy. Sponge Bob nods, his smile gentle. "Come on, buddy," he says, his voice a warm whisper. "Let's get you to bed." They're careful not to jostle him to much. Plankton's eye droop closed again, his body limp in Sponge Bob's embrace. Karen leads the way to the bedroom. The bed is made with fresh sheets, the room organized with care. Plankton's favorite gadgets line the shelves, each item meticulously placed. Sponge Bob lays Plankton gently on the bed, body is heavy with sleep, his snores a comforting lullaby. Karen pulls the blankets up, tucking them around his small form. "Thank you," Plankton mumbles. Sponge Bob's smile is warm and reassuring. "You're welcome, buddy," he says, his voice low. "Sleep tight." Karen watches the scene with affection. "I'll be right outside if you need anything," she whispers. Plankton's antennas twitch, his eye opening slightly. "I lo-ove you.." "We love you too, Plankton," he says, his voice cracking with emotion. He smiles at Karen, who nods in understanding before they slip out of the room, letting him sleep.

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KAREN AND THE TEETHIES vii "Wake up, Plankton," Karen whispers, shaking him lightly. "We're not even to the parking lot yet!" Plankton's eye opens. "Tish... tish... Karen?" he mumbles, his voice a sleepy whine. "Why we not... not at home?" Karen laughs, her voice a gentle lullaby. "We will be soon," she says, her grip on him firm but caring. "Just stay with me a little longer. Let's make our way to the car; yea?" But Plankton's eye is already drooping. "Caw... car?" he mumbles. Karen nods, her smile soft. "Yes, the car. We're going home." But Plankton's eyelid flaps heavily, his gaze unfocused. "Home... home," he repeats, his voice a slurred echo. His head wobbles against her shoulder, his body slack. Karen sighs, her laughter mingling with the slight exasperation in her voice. "Just a bit more, Plankton," she whispers, patting his back. "Stay with me. Let's stand up now." But Plankton's body is already succumbing to the warm embrace of sleep. His eyelid flaps once, twice, before his eye closes completely. He slumps back into the chair, snoring gently. Karen chuckles, shaking her head. "Come on," she says, her voice a blend of humor and patience. With a sigh, she stands, his weight still leaning on her. "You need to wake up for just a little bit more," she insists, her voice a mix of playfulness and firmness. But Plankton's snores are already steady. "Wake up," she whispers, shaking him gently. "We have to go." His eyelid twitches, his mouth moving in a slight snore. "Home?" he mumbles. Karen laughs softly, her hand still on his shoulder. "Yes, home," she repeats, her voice a gentle prodding. "Let's go." But Plankton's snores are now a symphony of sleep. His body sags, his head lolling to the side, and Karen knows the battle is lost. She looks to the nurse, who nods in understanding. "Let's get him to the car," she says, her voice a whisper of amusement. They lift him again, his arms draped over their shoulders like a tiny, uncooperative ragdoll. "Wake up, Plankton," Karen whispers again, her voice filled with a mix of humor and exasperation. "We're almost there." But Plankton's snores are a testament to his deep slumber. His head tips to the side, his mouth hanging open. The nurse's smile widens, and she nods to Karen. "It's okay. He's comfortable. We'll get him to the car." They manage to stand him up, his legs wobbly as a newborn deer's. Karen's arm is wrapped around his waist. "Come on, babe," she coaxes, her voice laced with affection. "Walk with me to the car. Wake up.." But Plankton's snores are a constant background noise, his body swaying with the rhythm of sleep. He opens his eye with difficulty, his gaze unfocused. "Wha... wha..." Karen chuckles, her arm tightening around him. "Walk, Plankton," she whispers, guiding his unsteady steps. "You're doing so well." But Plankton's body has other ideas. His knees buckle, and he sags against her, his snores growing louder. "Wake up, babe," she whispers, her voice filled with affectionate frustration. "You can't sleep until we're in the car." Plankton's head wobbles, his eye half-opening. "But... buth... I'm tiwed," he mumbles, his speech still thick. "Tish... tish... chair is... is... is so comfowt." Karen laughs softly, her patience unwavering. "You need to wake up, sweetie," she says, her voice a gentle prod. But Plankton's snores are the only response, his head lolling to the side. His body sags heavily against her. "Wake up, Plankton," Karen whispers, a hint of a laugh in her voice. But Plankton's only response is a sleepy snore, his body relaxing further against hers. "Come on, Plankton," Karen whispers, her voice a blend of amusement and urgency. "You're gonna need to get in to our car." Plankton's eye opens with effort, his gaze unfocused. "Caw... caw?" he mumbles, his speech still a thick slur. Karen laughs softly, her arm supporting his wavering body. "Yes, car," she repeats, her voice a gentle nudge. "We're going home." But Plankton's eye droops closed once more, his snores a soft symphony of unconsciousness. "Buth... buth... Karen," he mumbles, his words barely audible. Karen's laugh is a soft whisper of affection. "You're so sleepy," she says, her voice a gentle reminder. She tightens her grip on him, her arm supporting his wavering frame. "Just a few more steps." But Plankton's snores are a sweet lullaby, his body heavy with slumber. His legs barely move, his feet dragging against the floor. Karen's arm tightens, her strength the only thing keeping his body upright. "Wake up," she whispers, her voice a soft caress. "Almost there." Yet Plankton's only response is a snort, his head rolling back. Karen looks to the nurse. "It's okay," the nurse whispers, her smile warm. "Let's get him to your car. He'll sleep it off." They shuffle towards the exit, Plankton's snores a soft accompaniment to their quiet steps. Karen's arms are tight around his waist, her strength the only thing keeping him from sliding to the floor. His head rolls back, mouth open, a soft snore escaping him. "Wake up, Plankton," Karen whispers, her voice a gentle plea. "We're almost at the car." The nurse holds the door open for them. Plankton's eyelid flaps weakly, his mouth dropping open with a snore. "Caw?" he mumbles, his gaze unfocused. "Almost, sweetie," Karen says, her voice a blend of humor and determination. She shifts his weight slightly, her arm still supporting his waist. "Just a few more steps." But Plankton's body is a deadweight, his snores a testament to his deep slumber. His head tips back, mouth open wide, and Karen can feel his body going slack again. "Wake up. We're so close." But his only response is another snore, his chest rising and falling with the rhythm of his sleep. Karen laughs softly, her arm tightening around him. "You're so funny when you're sleepy," she whispers. The nurse opens the door to the car, but Plankton remains deeply asleep. His snores echo through the empty space, his body a ragdoll in Karen's arms. Karen tries to rouse him once more. "Come on, Plankton," she whispers, her voice a soft coax. "Wake up." But Plankton's snores are a sweet symphony of exhaustion. His head tips back, his mouth open wide, and Karen feels his body go limp again. She sighs with affectionate exasperation. "You're so stubborn," she murmurs, his weight a testament to his deep sleep.

JUST A TOUCH vii (Autistic author) The room is thick with unspoken words as Sandy slowly approaches the bed, her movements calculated to avoid overstimulating Plankton. Her eyes are full of compassion, but also fear of the unknown. "Hi, Plankton," she says softly, extending her hand with a gentle wave. He flinches, his antennae quivering. "Remember me?" Plankton's brain processes her words, but his response is delayed. He nods, his movements mechanical. Sandy sits on the edge of the bed, her eyes never leaving his. "How are you feeling?" she asks, her voice carefully modulated to avoid causing him discomfort. Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye darting to the side. He doesn't look at her directly, his gaze lingering on a spot on the wall. "Fine," he says, his voice devoid of inflection. Sandy nods, her eyes searching his for any sign of the friend she knew. "It's good to see you, Plankton." Her words hang in the air, their meaning lost in the labyrinth of his new reality. Karen watches them, her heart in her throat. She can see the effort Plankton is making to engage with Sandy, the way his antennae twitch with every word spoken. It's a dance, a delicate balance between his need for solace and his desire for connection. Sandy's hand hovers near his, her eyes questioning. "Can I?" she asks, her voice barely a whisper. Plankton's gaze shifts to hers, his expression unreadable. Karen nods, giving her permission. "Gently," she says, a soft reminder. Sandy nods, her hand inching closer to his. Plankton's antennae twitch slightly, his body stiffening as her fingertips brush against his. But the moment their skin makes contact, something snaps within him. He jolts upright, his antennae flailing as his eye widen in panic. "Too much," he cries out, his voice a mix of fear and anger. "Too much!" The room seems to shrink around him, the walls closing in with every beat of his racing heart. Sandy's eyes widen in shock, her hand retreating quickly. "Plankton," she says, her voice calm. "It's okay." But Plankton's not listening, his body shaking with the force of his emotions. "No!" he yells, his voice echoing through the room. "No touch!" Sandy's face falls, her eyes brimming with confusion and hurt. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice shaking. "I didn't mean to..." But Plankton's in the throes of a full-blown meltdown. His tiny fists clench. "No touch!" he repeats, his voice rising. Karen's heart breaks seeing the fear in Sandy's eyes, but she understands the importance of respecting Plankton's boundaries. "We're sorry, Plank..." But Plankton's anger interrupts her, his voice sharp and intense. "No! No sorry! Sandy touch no good!" His words are a jumble of pain and frustration, a stark contrast to the controlled monotone he'd used earlier. Sandy's eyes fill with tears, her hand retreating to her lap. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice cracking. "I didn't know." Karen nods, her grip on Plankton's hand tightening. "It's okay," she says to both of them, her voice steady. "We're just figuring this out." Plankton's chest heaves with breaths. "No touch," he mutters, his voice fading. Sandy nods, her eyes still on Plankton. "I'm sorry," she repeats, her voice softer. "I'll..." But Plankton's outburst continues, his voice rising. "No touch!" The room vibrates with his distress, the air thick with his panic. Karen's heart races, her mind racing to find a way to soothe him. She knows he's overwhelmed, that his new hypersensitivity to touch has been violated. Sandy's eyes widen, her hands hovering awkwardly in the space between them. She can see the turmoil in his face, the anguish in his voice. "I didn't mean to..." she starts, but her words are swallowed by his distress. "Plankton, it's okay," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. But it's too late. The dam has broken, and his emotions flood the room like a storm. His tiny body trembles with rage, his antennae flailing in every direction. "No touch!" he screams again, the force of his voice surprising even Sandy. She jumps back, hands raised in a gesture of surrender. Karen's eyes are on Plankton, a silent apology in her gaze. "It's okay," she says to him, her voice soothing. "We'll make sure that doesn't happen again." Plankton's eye darts around the room, his breathing erratic. "No touch," he whispers, his voice broken. Sandy backs away, her eyes swimming with unshed tears. "I didn't know," she says, her voice thick. "I'm so sorry." The room echoes with Plankton's sobs, his body quaking in Karen's arms. Karen's heart aches for him, her eyes never leaving his face. "No touch," he whispers, his voice broken. Karen nods, her eyes brimming with tears. "I know," she says, her voice gentle. "It's okay. We'll figure this out." Plankton's antennae stop flailing, his body still trembling as the storm of his emotions begin to subside. He looks up at Karen, his gaze searching for comfort. She wipes a tear from her face with her free hand. "It's okay," she repeats. "You're okay." Sandy's eyes are red, her shoulders slumped. "I didn't know," she says again, her voice shaking. "I just wanted to help." Karen nods, her own eyes wet with empathy. "I know," she says. "It's a lot to take in." The three of them sit in the quiet room, the only sound Plankton's muffled sobs. Sandy's eyes dart around, not knowing what to do with herself. Karen squeezes his hand gently, her gaze never leaving his. "We're here for you," she whispers. Slowly, Plankton's crying subsides, his body still shaking. Karen can feel the tension in him, like a coiled spring ready to snap again. Sandy's hand twitches, as if she wants to reach out, but she stops herself, remembering his outburst. "I'm sorry," she says again, her voice small. Karen nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's. "It's not your fault," she says to Sandy, her voice gentle. "We're all just trying to navigate this new... reality." Sandy sniffs, nodding. "I just want to be here for you guys," she says, her voice shaky. Plankton's sobs quiet, his body slumping in exhaustion. Karen nods, her eyes meeting Sandy's. "We know, and we appreciate it," she says, her voice tight. "But we have to be careful with his sensory needs." Sandy nods, her face a mask of sorrow. "I'll learn," she whispers. "What do you need from me, Plan..." But Plankton's already slipping away, his eyelid drooping as sleep beckons. Karen's grip on his hand doesn't loosen as she watches his breathing even out. The tension in the room slowly eases as his body relaxes, his sobs giving way to quiet snuffles. Sandy's eyes are on him, her heart heavy with guilt. "I'll go," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. Karen nods, her gaze still on Plankton. "Thank you," she murmurs. "Call me if you need anything." Sandy nods, her eyes lingering on the two of them before she stands, her legs shaky. She crosses the room, the weight of her mistake dragging her down. As she reaches the door, she glances back one last time. Plankton's antennae twitch slightly in his sleep, and she can't help but feel a pang of sadness. Karen's eyes follow her, filled with a mix of gratitude and sorrow. "Thank you," she whispers again as Sandy exits, closing the door behind her. The click echoes through the quiet space, a stark reminder of the distance that's grown between them all. Plankton's grip on her hand tightens slightly in his sleep, as if sensing the shift in the room's energy. Karen brings her other hand to cover his, sandwiching it between hers. Her eyes well with tears as she whispers, "It's okay, Plankton. You're okay." The room is bathed in silence once again, the only sound being Plankton's gentle snores. Karen's mind is racing, thinking of all the adjustments they'll need to make, the education she'll have to provide to those who know and love him. But for now, she focuses on the warmth of his hand in hers, his head buried in her shoulder. Her eyes drift to the clock, the hands moving in a slow, steady march forward. It's time for her to start dinner, to bring some semblance of normalcy back into their lives. Gently, she shifts Plankton to his side, making sure he's comfortable before rising from the bed. The kitchen is a minefield of potential triggers: the hum of the fridge, the clink of pans, the smell of cooking food. She moves carefully, her eyes scanning the room for anything that might overstimulate him. The recipe she's chosen is simple, something they both enjoy. She starts the prep, chopping vegetables with a precision that Plankton would appreciate, her movements methodical and calming. The aroma of cooking food fills the air, a comforting reminder of their shared life. Karen's mind is a whirlwind of thoughts, planning how to help Plankton navigate this new world. She wipes her hands on a towel. As she hears Plankton's tentative steps on the stairs, she takes a deep breath. His descent is slow, each step measured with caution. When he enters the kitchen, his gaze darts around the room, his antennae twitching with each new sound. Karen's heart squeezes. She's used to his energy, his boundless enthusiasm. This cautious creature is still his shell-shocked self. "Hungry?" she asks, her voice as soft as the evening light. Plankton nods. The meal is a simple one, a familiar comfort in a world that's become so alien. Karen places the plate before him, the steaming food a visual symphony of their shared past. Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze fixating on the plate. "Food," he says, his voice still monotone. Karen nods, aching for the passionate foodie she knew. "Do you need anything else?" she asks, her voice soft. He shakes his head. The meal is eaten in silence, each bite a victory. Karen wants to say something, anything, but she knows he needs space, time to process the whirlwind of emotions.

NEW REALITY vii (Autistic author) She sleeps at her bed next to his. The house is quiet, except for the soft snores coming from Plankton. But both of their eyes snap open at the sound of the doorbell. Plankton's body tenses, his hand shooting up to cover his head. Karen moves quickly, her heart racing. She knows that sudden sounds can be overwhelming for him. "It's okay," she murmurs, placing her hand over his. "Door," he says, his voice still groggy from sleep. Her eyes dart to the clock. It's early, much earlier than anyone would usually visit. "I'll go see who it is," she says, trying to keep her voice steady. "You stay here." Plankton nods, his hand dropping from his head to clutch at the blanket. "Stay," he whispers, his voice tight with anxiety. Karen's eyes fill with concern. "I'll be right back," she promises, her voice soft. "Just stay here." Plankton nods, his grip on the blanket tightening. "Stay," he repeats, his voice less than a whisper. Karen nods, her heart racing. "I will," she whispers. "Just rest." As she opens the door, she's met with the cheerful face of Hanna, her book club friend. "Hey Karen, I hope I'm not too early!" Hanna says, a word book in hand. Karen's eyes widen, her heart racing. "No, not at all," she says, forcing a smile. "Come in." Hanna steps into the house, her eyes bright with excitement. But as she sees Karen's expression, her smile falters. "Is everything okay?" she asks, concern etched on her face. Karen nods, as Plankton comes into the room, his gaze fixed on the spinning fan. "This is Plankton," Karen introduces, her voice calm. Hanna smiles. "Hi Plankton," she says, her voice too bright. He nods, his gaze still locked on the fan. "Fan spin," he murmurs. Hanna's eyes widen, unsure how to respond. Karen quickly interjects. "Why don't we take a look at the work puzzle book.." Plankton's gaze shifts, his interest piqued by the mention of books. "Puzzles," he repeats, his voice a bit clearer. Hanna's smile relaxes, seeing his interest. "Yes, puzzles," she says, holding up the book. "They're like fun little brain teasers." Plankton nods, his hand reaching out to touch the book. Karen watches, her heart racing. Will this be another trigger? But Plankton's gaze locks onto the puzzle book, his eye lighting up with curiosity. Karen's heart skips a beat. This could be good for him, a way to focus his whirling thoughts. Hanna opens the book, showing him a simple word search. "See if you can find the hidden words, Plankton," she says, her voice gentle. His gaze scans the page, his hand moving in time with his eye. "Words," he murmurs, his voice filled with excitement. Hanna nods, her smile growing. "That's right," she says, her tone encouraging. "See if you can find them all." Plankton nods, his eye quickly moving over the page. Karen watches, her heart swelling with hope. This might be it, she thinks, a new way to connect. Hanna points to a word, her voice soothing. "What's this?" Plankton's hand moves over the letters, tracing them. "F-A-N," he reads, his tone monotone. "Fan," he says, his gaze flicking up to the whirring object above. Hanna laughs, misunderstanding. "No, Plankton, not fan," she says, pointing to the puzzle. "Find the words that are hidden." But Plankton's gaze remains on the spinning blades. "Fan," he repeats, his voice taking on a firm tone. Hanna's smile falters, not comprehending his meaning. "No, Plankton," she says, her voice still cheerful. "Look at the puzzle." But Plankton's gaze doesn't waver from the fan. "Fan," he says, his tone firm, almost defensive. Hanna's smile falters, her cheerfulness waning. "Plankton," she says gently, "it's a puzzle, not about the fan." But Plankton's gaze remains fixed on the fan, his body tensing. "Fan," he repeats, his voice firm, almost defensive. Hanna's smile falters, uncertain of his meaning. "It's just a puzzle, Plankton," she says gently, her voice filled with misunderstanding. But Plankton's tone sharpens. "Fan," he insists, his voice raised, his body tense. "Fan spin, make quiet." Hanna's eyes widen with surprise, her smile slipping away. "It's not about the fan, Plankton," she says, her voice still kind but concerned. "It's about..." But Plankton's voice cuts through the air, his tone sharp. "Fan spin," he says, his hand moving in erratic patterns. "Fan make quiet. Fan important." Hanna's eyes widen, taking a step back. "I didn't mean..." she starts, but Plankton's agitation is growing. "Fan important," he repeats, his voice echoing in the quiet room. Karen's heart races as she tries to defuse the situation. "Hanna, it's okay," she says, her voice calm but firm. "The fan is special to Plankton. It helps him feel calm." But Hanna's confusion only grows. "It's just a fan, right?" she asks, her voice pitching with uncertainty. Plankton's voice rises, his hands flailing. "No!" he yells. "Fan special! Make quiet! Must spin!" Hanna's eyes widen with shock, her cheerful demeanor evaporating. "I'm sorry, I didn't know," she stammers, taking a step back. Plankton's voice echoes, his frustration palpable. "Fan special!" he yells, his hands slashing the air. Hanna's smile has disappeared, replaced by a look of fear. "I'm sorry," she whispers, backing away slowly. Karen's eyes are wide with worry. She steps between Hanna and Plankton, trying to shield her friend from his distress. "It's okay, Hanna," she says, her voice calm but firm. "Let's just give him some space." Hanna nods, her eyes filled with apology. "I didn't mean to upset him," she murmurs, setting the puzzle book down on the coffee table. Karen nods, her gaze on Plankton. "It's okay," she says softly. "He's just overwhelmed." Plankton's hands flap like wings against his sides. This is stimming, she knows, his way of coping with the sensory onslaught. He rocks back and forth, his gaze still on the fan. Karen's heart aches as she watches him, his body a whirlwind of energy. "Fan spin," he murmurs, his hands fluttering like butterfly wings. "Spin, spin." Karen's eyes follow his erratic movements, her heart racing. "Plankton," she says, her voice calm and soothing. "Look at me." He doesn't react, his gaze still glued to the fan. Karen approaches him, moving slowly to avoid startling his heightened senses. "Plankton," she repeats, her tone steady. He doesn't react, his eye still on the fan, his body a flurry of movement. Her heart racing, Karen tries again. "The fan spins," she says, mimicking his rhythmic speech. Plankton's gaze flicks to her, his body still. For a moment, his movements cease. "Spin," he whispers, his eye searching hers. Karen nods, understanding his need for the fan's rhythmic whirl. "It's okay," she says, her voice a gentle melody. "The fan will spin." Plankton's gaze shifts from the fan to the digital clock on the mantle. His eye widens as he sees the seconds tick by, restarting each minute. The numbers, stark and precise, seem to call to him, a silent symphony of order in a world gone haywire. Hanna looks confused, for Plankton's gaze shifts to the digital clock, the seconds ticking away in a silent symphony. His hands stop their erratic movements, his body stilling as he watches the precise dance of the numbers. Karen sees his fascination, the way his eye tracks each second as it passes. "It's okay," she says softly. "The clock will keep going." But Plankton's gaze doesn't shift. His body is still, his mind lost in the rhythm of the ticking digits. Karen watches, her heart racing. She's read about how some with autism find comfort in patterns, how the predictability of something as simple as a digital clock can be a lifeline in a world that's otherwise so chaotic. Hanna, however, doesn't understand. Her eyes go to Plankton, her confusion growing. "Plankton," she says, her voice still too bright, "it's just a clock." His eye snaps to her, his body rigid with tension. "Clock important," he murmurs, his voice a mix of anger and fear. "Numbers change." Hanna's smile fades, her eyes widening with confusion. "It's just a clock, Plankton," she says, trying to placate him. But her words only serve to stir his distress further. Plankton's eye darts from the clock to Hanna, his breath coming in quick bursts. "No," he whispers, his voice tight. "Clock important. Numbers change." Hanna's smile is gone, her expression one of confusion. "It's just a way to tell time," she says, her voice shaking. But Plankton's agitation is building, a storm gathering behind his eye. "No," he whispers, his hand trembling as it points to the clock. "Numbers change, make brain quiet." Hanna's eyes widen, her understanding still elusive. "But Plankton," she starts, "it's just a way to keep track of time." But Plankton's gaze is intense, his voice urgent. "No, no, no," he says, shaking his head. "Numbers change, make brain quiet." Hanna's voice rises, her confusion thick. "But it's just a clock, Plankton," she repeats, her words falling on deaf antennae. Plankton's body is tight as a spring, his gaze locked on the digital dance. "No," he whispers, his voice strained. "Numbers make quiet, chronologically." Hanna's eyes dart between Plankton and Karen, her confusion thick.

SHELF IMPROVEMENT vii (Autistic author) Gently, she helped Plankton to his feet. He swayed slightly, his legs weak from the seizure. "Let's go to your room," she suggested, her arm around his waist. They moved slowly, his steps cautious. Karen could feel his tension easing as they left the chaos of the living room behind. Plankton was still silent, twitching slightly with every new sound they encountered. In the quiet of his bedroom, Karen helped him sit on the bed. "Rest," she said softly. "You're safe here." Plankton nodded, his antennae drooping. "Safe," he mumbled. Karen felt a wave of protectiveness wash over her as she tucked him into bed, his small frame looking even more vulnerable than ever. She knew she had to speak to Chip, to explain everything. With a heavy heart, she made her way to his room. The door was ajar, and she could see his form huddled on his bed, tears staining his screen. He looked up as she entered, his eyes red from crying. "Chip," she began, her voice gentle. "I need to talk to you about Dad." Chip sniffled, wiping his screen with the back of his hand. "What's wrong with him?" he asked, his voice hoarse with emotion. Karen sat on the edge of his bed, taking a deep breath. "Dad's had a bit of an accident, sweetie," she began. "He's okay, but he's going through something called autism. He'll have it for the rest of his life, yet we're still finding ways to manage.." Chip's eyes widened in shock, and he swiped at his tears. "What's autism?" Karen took a deep breath, preparing to explain. "It's like a different kind of brain wiring, Chip. Sometimes, it makes things that seem simple to us really hard for Dad to understand or do." Chip's brow furrowed in confusion. "Does that mean he won't be the same?" "No, it doesn't mean he won't be the same person," she said gently. "But it does mean that we'll have to make some changes to help him feel comfortable and safe. Dad will need extra patience, and we'll have to learn new ways to communicate. He still has memories of his life before, though." Chip looked at his mother with uncertainty. "How can we help him?" Karen took his hand in hers, feeling the warmth of his small fingers. "Well, Chip, we have to be very understanding," she explained. "Dad might react differently to things now, like noises or touch." Chip nodded, his expression earnest. "So I can't hug him like that anymore?" "Not like you did just now," she said. "But we'll find ways to show love without overwhelming him." Chip nodded with newfound determination. "Okay," he said, his voice small. "I'll try." Karen felt a surge of pride. Despite his young age, Chip was showing a maturity beyond his years. "That's my brave boy," she said, squeezing his hand. "Good night.."

CHIP ON THE SHOULDERS vii (By NeuroFabulous) "Chip," he began, his voice cracking. "I have something important to tell you." Chip leaned forward, his heart racing. "What is it, Dad?" Plankton's antennae twitched again, his eyes meeting his son's with a meld of love and apprehension. "I'm autistic," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. Chip thought back to what his mom had told him about his father's unique way of being born, and how it had affected his brain. He remembered the awe in his mother's voice as she recounted the story of Plankton's birth, the way she'd spoken with a mix of wonder and sorrow. It was a lot to take in, but it made him feel closer to his father somehow. "Dad?" Chip's voice was tentative, his hand still hovering over his father's arm. "What's a... coffin birth?" Plankton's antennae stilled, his eye flicking to Karen's. She gave a tiny nod, understanding the need for honesty. "It's a rare event, Chip," Plankton began, his voice steadier now. "It's when a baby is born after their mother has... passed away." Chip's eyes searched his father's, trying to make sense of the words. "But how?" Plankton took a deep breath, his antennae flattening slightly. "The doctors had to be... quick," he said, his voice filled with awe. "They knew I was still alive, and they did everything they could to get me out." Chip's eyes grew even wider, his imagination running wild. "But Dad, how does that even work?" he whispered, his voice filled with wonder and horror. Plankton took a deep breath, his antennae twitching slightly. "It's... it's a difficult thing to explain, Chip," he said, his voice strained. "But basically, when a mom's body isn't alive anymore, but the baby's heart is still beating, the doctors do an emergency procedure to get the baby out." Chip's eyes were like saucers, his mind racing. "But how is that possible?" he whispered, his voice barely audible. Plankton sighed, his antennas drooping slightly. "The doctors try to induce labor in mum's body after she... after she's gone," he said, his voice strained with the difficulty of the memory. "It was a delicate process, and not always successful. In my birth, there was a moment where my brain didn't get enough oxygen," he murmured. "When I was still inside mum." Chip's unsure how to react. "And how'd it give you autism?" Plankton's antennae twitched again, his gaze dropping to the bed. "Well, it's something that can happen when a baby's brain doesn't get enough oxygen during birth, Chip," he said, his voice quiet. "It's like a... hypoxic-ischemic event. It can lead to... complications. For me, it was autism." Chip nodded, his hand still hovering over his father's arm. "But how did your mum... die?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Plankton's antennae drooped further, his gaze going distant. "It was an accident," he murmured. "Her heart... it just stopped. Bled out, the doctors said." Chip's hand hovered over his dad's arm, his mind racing with the implications. "But why?" Plankton took a moment, his antennae flicking slightly. "It's complicated, Chip. My mum... she had a rarity. Her heart was weak, and it couldn't handle the stress. It went undiagnosed back then." Chip's hand hovered still, his heart breaking for his dad. "But Dad, why didn't anyone know?" Plankton's antennae twitched, his gaze going to the floor. "They did, eventually," he murmured. "But by then, it was too late. My mum was gone." Chip's eyes filled with sympathy, his hand resting on the bed. "I'm sorry, Dad," he whispered. Plankton's antennae twitched slightly, his gaze meeting his son's. "It's okay, Chip. It's not something you could've known. I obviously didn't know her to well, but thank you." Karen was glad to see them connecting. "So Chip, you can ask us questions if you want." Chip looked from Karen to Plankton, his curiosity piqued. "Dad, is there anything you really hate that makes you have these... shutdowns?" Plankton's antennae twitched nervously, his eye darting between them. "Well, Chip, it's not always just one thing. It's mostly like... a buildup. Loud noises, too many people, bright lights," he listed off. "They can all make it harder for me to focus, to filter out the extra stuff my brain's taking in." Chip nodded, his eyes never leaving his dad's face. "What about touch?" he asked, his voice tentative. "Does it bother you?" Plankton's antennae twitched, his gaze flicking to Karen's comforting hand. "It depends," he said slowly. "Some days, I crave it. Other days, it's too much." Chip nodded, his mind racing. "What about hugs?" he asked, his voice hopeful. "Does it help you feel better?" Plankton's antennae quivered, his eye searching his son's face. "Sometimes," he said, his voice tight. "But not always." Chip nodded, his hand still hovering. "Can I... ca--" Plankton's antennae shot up, his eye widening. "No!" The suddenness of his reaction made Chip's hand jerk back, his eyes wide with shock. "I'm sorry, buddy," Plankton said, his voice softening as he saw the fear in his son's eyes. "It's just that, sometimes, hugs are too much. I need... space, like I told you. But only if I know they're coming, and only from people I trust. I'm still recovering right now." Chip's hand hovered in the air, unsure of what to do. "Can I... I don't know, maybe just pat you on the shoulder?" he asked, his voice hopeful. But Plankton shook his head. "No, Chip," he murmured. "I do not want my shoulders to be patted. That's too much." Chip nodded, his gaze on Plankton's. "How about a high five?" he asked, his hand still hovering. Plankton's antennae twitched slightly, his eye narrowing as he considered his son's question. "Maybe," he murmured. "But only if you're gentle." Chip nodded eagerly, his hand slowly descending towards his dad's hand. He hovered for a moment, his heart racing. Then, with all the gentleness he could muster, he tapped his father's hand with his fingertips. Plankton's antennae twitched slightly, but his eye remained focused on Chip's. "Good job," he murmured, his voice a quiet praise. "That was... perfect."

CHIP IN MY BOX vii (Autistic author) Dr. Kelp's tentacles move quickly, setting out a new set of sensory items. He places the velvet curtain over Plankton's head, creating a safe, quiet space. The weighted blanket is laid gently over his body, his breathing starting to even out. The doctor's eyes are filled with a quiet wisdom that Karen finds reassuring. The octopus then turns his attention to Chip, his tentacle gently stroking the boy's arm. "It's okay," he repeats, his voice a calming lullaby in the tense room. "We all make mistakes." Karen's eyes are glued to Plankton, his body still and silent under the velvet curtain. Fear and regret are a heavy weight on her shoulders. "Thank you," she whispers to Dr. Kelp, her voice trembling. "We should have told him sooner." She watches as the doctor works, his tentacles deftly placing items around. "When Plankton wakes up," Dr. Kelp says, his voice low and soothing, "he might be disoriented, upset." He looks up at Chip, his eyes gentle. "It's important to give him space, let him know it's safe." Karen nods, her eyes never leaving her husband's still form. She knows the routine, but hearing it from Dr. Kelp's lips somehow makes it feel more real, more manageable. "When he wakes," the doctor continues, "he may be confused, overwhelmed." His voice is soft, his eyes compassionate. "He might not immediately be able to process what happened." Karen nods, her hand trembling slightly. "What do you mean?" She asks, desperation lacing her voice. Dr. Kelp takes a deep breath, his tentacles arranging the items with precision. "When Plankton comes to," he says, "his senses may be overstimulated, not knowing what's happening around him." He looks at Chip, his eyes serious. "It's important you don't take it personally. He may incoherently talk, forget or lash out. It's his brain's way of trying to make sense of the sensory overload." Karen nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton. "We'll be ready," she says, her voice determined. She doesn't want to scare Chip, but he needs to know. "We'll help him through it." Dr. Kelp looks at the both of them, his gaze softening. "Good," he says. "Because he's going to need you." His tentacles flatten against the floor as he leans closer to Plankton, checking his pulse. "When he wakes up, keep your voices low, and keep the lights dim. Try to limit any sudden movements." He demonstrates with a slow, deliberate wave of his tentacle. "And if he seems scared or confused, just tell him it's okay, that he's safe," he instructs, his voice calm and steady. "Remember, he might not recognize anything at first. His mind will be trying to piece together what happened, as if in a dream." Karen nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's still form. Chip clutches the indestructible fidgets in his small hands, his face a mask of determination. "When he wakes up," Dr. Kelp continues, his eyes on the floor, "his reactions may seem unpredictable. Sometimes, he might get scared, other times he might be agitated." His tentacle flicks slightly, a subtle sign of his own tension. "It's all part of his brain trying to recalibrate." He looks up at Chip, his expression serious. "Your dad's going to need you to be brave," he says, his voice gentle. "If he doesn't know you at first, don't be scared. Just stay calm and keep talking to him." Chip nods, his eyes glistening with tears. "I'll do anything," he says, his voice tiny but firm. Dr. Kelp gives a small smile, his tentacle patting Chip's shoulder. "That's all we can ask," he says.

A PLANKTON FAMILY STORY vii (By NeuroFabulous) Chip listened intently, his heart heavy with the realization that his father's world was so much more complex than he had ever imagined. "What do I do..." "When you see those signs," Karen said, her voice filled with patience and love, "you need to give him space. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is just be there for him, without expecting anything in return." Chip nodded, his eyes still swollen with tears. "But what if he needs help?" he asked, his voice small. Karen's expression was a mix of love and concern. "If he's having a seizure, it's important to keep him safe," she said, her tone serious. "Make sure there's nothing around that he could hurt himself on, and don't try to move him unless he's in danger." She paused, taking a deep breath. "And never put anything in his mouth. It can be really scary to watch, but he'll come out of it, I promise." "How will I know if it's a seizure?" Chip's voice was shaky, fear gripping him. Karen took a deep breath, her expression turning serious. "If he just stops talking or moving suddenly, and his eye glazes over, it's probably a seizure," she said, her voice calm and measured. "Sometimes he'll stare off into space, or his body might get really stiff for a moment." She paused, squeezing his hand. "But remember, his brain is just taking a little vacation, okay? And if he convulses or starts to fall, you have to catch him and guide him to the floor safely. It's really important that he doesn't get hurt." Chip's eyes were wide with fear, but he nodded, determined to be there for his dad. "What if..." "If it's a bigger seizure," Karen said, her tone gentle but firm, "you'll know. His whole body might shake, and he could fall to the floor." Her grip on his hand tightened. "If that happens, you need to stay calm. Alert me, and make sure he's in a safe place where he won't hurt himself." With a nod, Chip tried to absorb the information, his stomach churning with a mix of fear and determination. He didn't want his dad to go through that alone. "Okay," he murmured. Karen gave his hand a final squeeze before releasing it. "Why don't we check on him?" she suggested, her voice tentative. "Let's see if he's ready to talk." They approached the bedroom. "Remember, sweetie," she whispered. "Let him set the pace." The door was ajar, letting a sliver of light spill into the hallway. Through it, Chip could see his father, still sitting on the edge of the bed, his antennas slumped in defeat. The room was quiet, save for the faint sound of his father's shallow breaths. Karen knocked gently, her voice soft. "Plankton?" There was a moment of silence before they heard a sniffle. "Come in," Plankton's voice was barely audible. Karen pushed the door open, letting Chip step in first. Plankton's single eye was red and swollen from crying, and he was clutching a worn pillow to his chest while rocking in place. Karen's heart ached at the sight of her husband's distress, but she knew better than to rush in. Instead, she gave Chip a gentle nod, encouraging him to go first. Chip took a tentative step forward, his eyes on Plankton's small frame. He had never seen his dad so vulnerable before, his usual bravado and strength nowhere to be found. Plankton looked up at him, his eye searching, his antennas drooping. For a moment, the room was so quiet that Chip could hear his own heart pounding in his chest. With a deep breath, he moved closer, his heart racing. He knew he had to fix this, to somehow make it right. "Dad," he began, his voice shaking. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean any of it." Plankton's gaze was unreadable, his antennas lying flat against his head. "You don't get it," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "You'll never get it." The words stung Chip, but he knew his dad wasn't mad at him. It was frustration, a feeling Plankton struggled to express without it coming out as anger. He took another step closer, his eyes locking with Plankton's. "I want to," he said, his voice earnest. "I want to understand you, Dad." Plankton's antennas twitched, a small sign that he had heard, that he was processing the words.

PLUSH ONE vii (By NeuroFabulous) The room feels alien, the walls closing in around Karen. Plankton's autism has painted a new reality, one filled with sounds too loud, lights too bright, and emotions too intense. Plankton then sniffles as tears start to trickle down his cheeks. "Karen," he says, his voice desperate. "Plankton... Karen upset? Plankton not meant to upset Karen." Karen's screen swells with love and pity. She can't bear to see his pain, his confusion. "It's okay," she whispers. "You didn't do anything wrong." She takes a deep breath, trying to keep her voice steady. "I'm just learning, sweetie. We both are." Plankton sniffles, his eye searching hers. "Love Karen," he says, his voice a tremble. "Yes; Karen Plankton." "I love you, too," she whispers. "Always." Plankton's gaze lingers on the envelope, his antennae quivering. "Loving Karen even when wanting space." Karen nods, her eyes filling with understanding. "We'll figure this out," she says, her voice a balm to his fear. Plankton's hand opens, the envelope slipping onto the bed. "Plankton memorized formula. Plankton need put back, in Krabs safety vault." Karen's eyes widen with shock. "You... you remember each and every detail; how?" Plankton's eye twitches, a flurry of thoughts racing across his face. "Patterns," he whispers. "Everything in patterns. Krabby Patty, Krabs, all patterns." Karen nods, her mind racing. "So, you're saying you'll return it, so Krabs won't know you got it. Ok, sweets." Plankton nods vigorously, his antennae bobbing. "Yes." He goes and does so before hurrying back. "Plankton did it! And not caught!" Karen swells with pride, despite the circumstances. "Good job," she says, her voice a gentle caress. "Now, let's focus on you. How do you feel?" Plankton's eye flickers, his antennae waving in contemplation. "Different," he murmurs. "Everything's so... much." He looks around the room, his gaze landing on their wedding photo. "But Karen, always. Love." Karen smiles through her tears, touched by his words. "I know, sweetie. I love you, too." The room feels smaller, the air thick with their shared understanding. Plankton's autism has become a part of them, a third entity in their relationship. They'll have to navigate this new reality together, a dance of patience and empathy. Karen watches him, his movements now a symphony of tics and rituals, each gesture a clue to his inner world. "What do you need, Plankton?" she asks, her voice a soft whisper in the cacophony of his thoughts. He looks at her, his eye searching hers. "Does," he says. "Do Plankton." Karen nods. "What does my Plankton need?" He looks at her, his eye swiveling in his newly autistic way, trying to find the words. "Karen," he says, his voice a gentle wave of comfort. "Safe Karen." Karen's eyes well with tears, understanding his need for familiarity. She nods, her hand reaching out to stroke his antennae gently. "Yes, Plankton. You're safe with me." The contact sends a rush of comfort through him, his body relaxing slightly. He closes his eye, leaning into her touch. "Good Karen," he whispers. Karen continues stroking his antennae, her hand trembling with emotion. "What else can I do for you?" she asks, her voice low and soothing. Plankton's eye opens slightly, his focus on her touch. "Love Karen," he murmurs, his voice filled with longing. "Always, love." "I know, Plankton. We're in this together." He nods, his antennae twitching slightly. "Together," he echoes. Karen can see the fear in his eye, the way it searches hers for reassurance. She nods, her hand moving to gently stroke his arm. But the moment her hand makes contact with his skin, Plankton's body stiffens. He jerks away, his eye wide with terror. "NO!" he shouts, the sound piercing the quiet room. Karen's hand freezes in midair, her thoughts racing. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice cracking. "I didn't mean to—" But Plankton's already retreated to the corner of the room, his body curled into a protective ball. "Not now," he murmurs, his voice shaking. "No touch." She'd hurt him without meaning to, crossed a line he hadn't even drawn yet. She takes a step back, her hand hovering in the air. "Okay," she says, her voice barely a whisper. Then an idea forms in her head. Carefully, she picks up a plushie, her movements slow and deliberate. "Look, Plankton," she says, her voice calm and even. "It's your plush.." But Plankton's eye remains wide with fear, his antennae rigid. "NO!" he shouts, the word echoing in the room. Karen's hand freezes, the plushie dropping to the floor forgotten. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice soft and trembling. "I di-" But Plankton's eye is locked on her screen, his body shaking. "NO!" he screams, his autism surging. This is new, this raw fear. He's never reacted so strongly before. "I didn't know." Karen aches for him, but she knows she can't force her way in. Plankton's breaths come quick and shallow, his body trembling. She wants to comfort him, to tell him it's okay, but she knows it's not. Not right now. Instead, she sits down on the bed, giving him the space he needs. Her eyes on him, watching his every move. The plushie lies on the floor, which he tentatively reaches with his shaky hand. He then clutches it as he remains in the corner of the room on the floor. Karen watches him. The man she loves is lost in his own sensory overload, and she feels powerless. "Would you like me to sing..." Plankton's eye snaps to hers, his face a mask of terror. "No!" he shouts, his voice sharp as a knife. The room falls silent, the air charged with his fear. Karen's seen this look before, but never with such intensity. His autism has painted their lives with new colors, vivid and overwhelming. She takes a step back, her hand raised in a peaceful gesture. "Okay," she whispers, her voice barely audible. "I'm sorry." Plankton's eye doesn't leave the plushie, embracing it. "MINE," he murmurs, his voice a mix of anger and fear. Karen nods, her voice calm. "Yes, Plankton. It's your plushie. You're safe." She doesn't move, knowing any sudden action could send him spiraling again. The silence is heavy, punctuated by Plankton's quick, shallow breaths. Karen's mind races, trying to understand his new rules, his new reality. Plankton clutches the plushie to his chest, his eye squeezed shut. Karen's seen his fear before, but never like this. The autism has unlocked a new intensity in him, his emotions a maelstrom she can't begin to navigate. "Plankton," she whispers, her voice soothing. "You're okay. I'm here." Her hand reaches out, but she stops short, not wanting to invade his space. His grip on the plushie loosens slightly, his breathing evening out. Karen's eyes never leave his face, watching for any sign of distress. "Would you like me to sit w---" But Plankton's eye snaps to hers, his voice firm. "No please," he says. The words hang in the air, a stark reminder of their new normal. Karen nods, her hand falling to her side. She knows he's trying to control his environment, to find comfort in the chaos. "Okay," she says softly. "I'll be right here." The room is silent but for the occasional whisper of his voice, recounting the formula to himself. She watches him from afar. But she's also in awe of his ability to process the patterns and remember every detail. Karen sighs. She observes his every move, the way his antennae twitch to the rhythm of his thoughts. This isn't the exact same Plankton she knew, but this is the Plankton she still loves. She watches him, his eye still closed, his body slowly relaxing as he clutches the plushie.

KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY ii (Autistic author) The next morning, Karen woke up to find Plankton still asleep, his hand still clutching hers. She gently pulled her hand away and stood up. Plankton's snores echoed through the quiet room. Karen studied his peaceful expression, his features softer in sleep, and felt a surge of affection for the man she had married so many years ago. In the cold light of day, the reality of his condition settled in. He was different, but she would not let that change the way she saw him. As a robot, Karen understood the importance of adjusting to new situations, and this was no exception. As Plankton stirred, she quickly moved to his side, ready to face whatever challenges the day might bring. His eye opened, looking around the room before settling on her. "Karen," he said, his voice still flat, but with a hint of recognition. "Good morning, Plankton," she replied. This was their first day facing his autism together, and she had spent the night preparing. Plankton sat up, his eye locking onto hers. "Morning," he repeated. His movements were slow, deliberate, as if his brain was processing each action. "Would you like some breakfast?" she asked. He nodded. "No vault," he murmured, and she could see the beginnings of a frown. Karen nodded, knowing that his obsessions might become more pronounced. "It's okay," she said. "We don't need the vault." Plankton's eye searched her face, his expression unreadable. "No vault," he repeated, his voice rising slightly. "Good." Karen nodded. "Let's start the day," she suggested, trying to shift the focus. She led him to the tiny kitchen area, the smell of chum wafting through the air. Plankton followed her, his steps measured and precise. His gaze flitted around the room, taking in every detail. "Would you like eggs or chum?" she asked. "Both," he said, his voice clearer than before. Karen nodded, cracking an egg over the sizzling pan. Plankton sat at the table, rocking back and forth slightly. It was clear that his senses were heightened, every sound and smell more intense than before. "Here's your breakfast, Plankton," she said, placing the plate in front of him. His gaze fixated on the food, his eye narrowing as if studying a complex puzzle. "Thank you," he said, the words coming out mechanically. But as Karen stirred the chum and eggs together, something shifted in his demeanor. He stiffened in his chair, his rocking coming to an abrupt halt. "What's wrong?" she asked, noticing the sudden change. Plankton's eye grew wide. "No," he whispered, his voice strained. "Not together. Separate," he demanded, his voice growing more urgent. Karen paused, her circuits racing. "I'm sorry," she said gently. "I'll fix it." She carefully scraped the food onto two separate places, one with egg, one with chum. She placed it in front of him, hoping she was interpreting his needs correctly. Plankton stared. "Different plate," he murmured. "And a new spoon. And new eggs not touching new chum." Karen nodded, quickly moving to comply with his requests. She knew that routines and sensory preferences could be crucial for individuals with autism, and she wanted to make sure his first breakfast post-diagnosis was as comfortable as possible. She replicated his meal with meticulous precision, ensuring every detail was exactly as he had specified, ridding of the old food. The new plate was set before him, the eggs and chum neatly separated. Plankton's shoulders relaxed slightly. He picked up the spoon, his gaze intensely focused on the task at hand. Karen watched as he took a tiny bite in what seemed like pleasure. "Good?" she ventured. Plankton nodded, his eye not leaving the plate. "Good," he echoed, his voice still monotone. Karen observed him as he methodically ate his breakfast, each bite the same size, each chew lasting the same amount of time. It was fascinating and slightly disconcerting to watch the man she knew so well now engaging with the world in such a different way. Plankton's routine was always important, but now it had taken on a new level of significance. The clink of the spoon against the plate was the only sound in the room, the rhythm of it almost hypnotic. As Plankton finished his meal, his head snapped up, his gaze sharp and focused on her. "Karen," he said, his voice now clear and concise. "Yes, Plankton?" she replied, wiping down the counter. "Thank you," he said, his eye fixed on the now-empty plate. Karen nodded, taking the dishes to the sink. She could feel his eye on her as she moved about the room, the weight of his silence a stark contrast to his usual incessant chatter. She knew that autism would bring challenges, but she was determined to be there for him.

KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY vi (Autistic author) Plankton holds up the science book he had been clutching, the pages fluttering in his excitement. Sponge Bob's eyes flick to the book, then back to Plankton's face. "You're acting different." Plankton's smile falters, his hands stilling momentarily. "No bad," he insists, his voice a bit too cheerful. "Just happy." Sponge Bob's eyes search Plankton's, trying to read the truth behind his words. "But you've never been this... affectionate before," he says, his voice tentative. Plankton's smile widens. "Sponge Bob," he says, his voice a sing-song. "You are good friend." He leans in closer, his antennas quivering. "Best friend." Sponge Bob's eyes widen further, his spongy cheeks reddening. "Plankton, what's going on?" he asks, his tone filled with confusion. "You've never said that before." Plankton's smile only grows broader. "No bad," he repeats, his voice still monotone. "Good day. Happy." He starts to rock back and forth on the bed, his hands flapping in a pattern that seems almost... happy? Sponge Bob's confusion deepens. Plankton had never been one to show affection, let alone so openly. "What's going on?" he asks again, his voice laced with concern. Plankton's response is a repetitive giggle, his eye locked on Sponge Bob's face. "Good day," he says, his hands flapping in a pattern that matches his words. "Best friend." Sponge Bob's eyes widen in surprise. Plankton nods vigorously, his hands flapping rapidly. "Very happy," he says, his voice high and excited. "Best friend happy." Sponge Bob's confusion turns to concern. "Plankton, are you okay?" he asks, his voice gentle. Plankton's giggle turns to a laugh, a sound Sponge Bob rarely hears from him. "Yes," he says, his voice still monotone. "Happy." Sponge Bob watches his friend, his heart racing. "What happened to you?" he asks, his concern growing with each passing moment. Plankton's laughter fades into a grin. "No bad," he says, his hands still fluttering in the air. "Just happy." Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with worry. "What's really going on?" Plankton's grin turns into a frown, his hands stopping their motion. "Sponge Bob," he says, his voice dropping to a whisper. "No bad. Happy." Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with confusion, but he can't ignore the desperation in Plankton's tone. He reaches out, his hand resting gently on Plankton's arm. "But why are you so happy?" he asks, his voice filled with genuine concern. Plankton's frown deepens, his mind racing to find the right words. "Because," he says, his voice strained. "I have friend. Best friend." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his hand still on Plankton's arm. "But we've always been friends," he says, his voice filled with confusion. Plankton's smile is wide, his eye unblinking. "Yes," he says, his voice still monotone. "Best friends. Happy." Sponge Bob's mind races. Something is clearly different about Plankton, but he doesn't know what. "But, Plankton," he starts, his voice tentative. "What happened to make you so... so...?" He struggles for the right word. Plankton's smile fades slightly, his gaze dropping to the book in his lap. "Book," he says, his voice flat. "Good book." Sponge Bob nods, trying to follow the conversation. "Yeah, it looks interesting," he says, his eyes searching for a clue. But Plankton's gaze is fixed on the book, his hands resuming their rhythmic flapping. "Good book," he repeats, his voice a gentle mantra. Sponge Bob's eyes flick from the book to Plankton's hands, his mind racing to connect the dots. "Is something wrong, Plankton?" he asks, his voice soft with worry. Plankton's hands stop their flapping abruptly, his eye snapping to Sponge Bob's face. "No wrong," he says, his voice earnest. "Just happy." Sponge Bob's expression is one of bewilderment. "But you've always liked your science books," he says, trying to find some semblance of normalcy in the situation. "What's different about this one?" Plankton's smile returns, his hands resuming their flapping. "This one," he says, his voice filled with a newfound enthusiasm. "Good book. Happy book." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his spongy heart swelling with a mixture of joy and concern. "What makes this one so special?" Plankton's hands flutter with excitement as he opens the book to a random page. "Look," he says, his voice a high-pitched squeak. "See?" Sponge Bob leans in, his eyes scanning the dense text filled with scientific terms. He nods, trying to appear engaged, though he has no clue what he's looking at. "Wow, Plankton," he says, his voice filled with forced enthusiasm. "That's... really interesting." Plankton's smile widens, his hands flapping in excitement. "Yes," he says, his voice a cheerful monotone. "Good book." Sponge Bob nods, still confused but not wanting to rain on his friend's parade. "Well, I'm glad you're enjoying it," he says, his voice warm. Plankton's hands stop moving momentarily. "Thank you," he says, his voice sincere. "You are best friend." He leans in closer, his antennas quivering with excitement. Sponge Bob's eyes widen in surprise as he feels a sudden wave of warmth and affection from Plankton, something that's never been present in their usually antagonistic friendship. "What's going on, Plankton?" he asks, his voice filled with curiosity. "Why are you being so nice to me?" Plankton's smile doesn't waver. "Sponge Bob," he says, his voice still monotone. "You are good. You make Plankton happy." "What's happened to make you so affectionate, Plankton?" Sponge Bob's question hangs in the air, his curiosity piqued by the unexpected warmth from his usually adversarial friend. Plankton's response is a repetitive giggle, his hands resuming their flapping. "No bad," he says, his voice cheerful. "Good day." He pats the bed next to him. "Sit, Sponge Bob. Read book." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his spongy body frozen in place. "I don't think I can read that, Plankton," he says, his voice filled with uncertainty. "It's really complicated." Plankton nods, his smile remaining constant. "It's okay," he says, his voice soothing. "You try." He pushes the book closer to Sponge Bob, his hand guiding him to the page. Sponge Bob hesitates, his thumb flipping through the pages. The words are a blur of symbols and numbers, his mind struggling to make sense of them. "But, Plankton, I don't understand any of this," he admits, his voice filled with frustration. Plankton's hand stops him, his eye wide with excitement. "Doesn't matter," he says, his voice cheerful. "You are here. Best friend." Sponge Bob's confusion turns to concern. "But Plankton," he says, his voice gentle. "You're not acting like yourself." Plankton's smile fades slightly, his hands stilling. "Self," he repeats, his voice contemplative. He looks at Sponge Bob, his eye searching his friend's face for understanding. Sponge Bob's expression is one of confusion and concern. "Is this a joke?" he asks, his voice gentle. Plankton's smile falters for a moment before growing wider. "No joke," he says, his voice a singsong. "Happy." He pats the bed again, his hand a silent invitation. Sponge Bob's eyes fill with compassion. He sits down beside his friend. "Plankton," he starts, his voice tentative. "Is everything ok?" Plankton nods vigorously, his hands flapping with excitement. "Everything is good," he says, his voice a monotone cheer. "Best day." Sponge Bob's gaze lingers on his friend, searching for any sign of distress. "But, Plankton," he says, his voice filled with uncertainty. "You're not usually like this." Plankton's smile never fades. "Don't know," he says, his voice calm. "But now, happy." Sponge Bob's heart clenches, his fears for his friend's well-being growing stronger. "But what about your schemes?" he asks, his voice hopeful. Plankton's eye blinks, the thought of his usual plans of world domination momentarily forgotten. "Schemes?" he repeats, his voice confused. Sponge Bob nods. "Yeah, you know, your plans to steal the Krabby Patty secret formula," he says, his tone light. Plankton's smile falters, his hands stopping their flapping. "Krabby Patty?" he asks, his voice distant. "No want Krabby Patty. Happy." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his spongy mind racing. "You don't want to steal the formula?" he asks, his voice incredulous, now really suspicious. Plankton shakes his head, his antennas swaying slightly. "No," he says, his voice still monotone. "Only happy." Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with confusion, but he can't ignore the genuine smile on his friend's face. "Okay, Plankton," he says, his voice gentle. "If you're happy, then I'm happy for you." Plankton's eye lit up, his hands flapping with excitement. "Thank you," he says, his voice filled with gratitude. "Best friend."

NEUROBEHAVIORAL PLANKTON vii (Autistic author) (see notes below) * ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴs ᴏғ ᴅɪsᴄʀɪᴍɪɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴ Sponge Bob's thumb begins to move in slow, soothing circles against Plankton's skin. "Thank you," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. Sponge Bob simply nods, his thumb continuing its soothing motion. He doesn't know how to explain the depth of his feelings, but his actions speak louder than words. His friendship with Plankton has always been unconventional, but now, in the face of this new challenge, it feels more precious than ever. Just as the moment of connection seems to solidify, the door to the Chum Bucket opens again, and Hanna tentatively steps inside, a pamphlet clutched in her hand. "I brought this," she says, her voice shaking slightly as she holds out the pamphlet. "It's about autism...and rituals that might help get rid of the autistic behaviors." Karen's snatching the pamphlet from Hanna's grip. Her eyes scan the pages, her anger building with each word. "What are you thinking?" she demands, her voice like a whipcrack. Hanna takes a step back. "I just...I thought it might help you get him back to normal," she stammers, clearly not expecting the ferocity of Karen's reaction. But Karen's anger is a volcano, erupting with the force of her love for Plankton. "These are not 'behaviors' to get rid of," she snaps, shaking the pamphlet in the air. "This is who he is now!" "But Karen, don't you think life would be easier if he wasn't...you know, like this?" Hanna tries to explain. "This isn't about making life easier for me," she snaps. "It's about supporting him!" "Karen, Plankton just needs to be fixed," Hanna says, her voice smaller now, her expression pleading. "We both know how difficult it is to be around someone with...problems." The words hit Karen. "Fixed?" she repeats, her voice low and dangerous. "Plankton isn't broken. He's not a machine to be tinkered with! These are dangerous, deadly suggestions!" Plankton flinches at the sound, his mind whirling. He feels a tiny spark of defiance in his chest. "You dare suggest that he doesn't deserve to live because he's autistic? You don't get to decide his worth!" Plankton's grip on Sponge Bob's tightens, his body stiffening, his heart racing. "How could you?" she demands, her eyes spitting fire. "You want me to just...to just get rid of him?" Hanna's eyes fill with tears as she takes another step back, her hands coming up in a defensive gesture. "I didn't mean it like that," she says, her voice quavering. "I just want to help!" But Karen's fury is a freight train, unstoppable. "Help?" she spits. "This is not help!" She gestures at the pamphlet, now a mangled mess on the floor. "This is hate, Hanna! This is saying he's not worth it because he's not like everyone else!" Plankton looks down, his antennae drooping. Was he really such a burden? Was his life not worth living? Sponge Bob squeezes Plankton's hand, his grip a silent reassurance. Karen's fury doesn't waver. "You call yourself a friend?" she says, her voice laced with disgust. "You'd throw his life away because it's inconvenient for you?" Hanna's sobs fill the room, her body trembling under the weight of Karen's accusations. "I didn't mean it like that," she whimpers. "I just...I don't know what to do." Karen's anger doesn't abate, but it turns into a deep sadness. She looks at Hanna, her eyes filled with disappointment. "You don't 'fix' someone because they're different," she says, her voice deadly calm. "You support them." Plankton watches the exchange. He feels tiny, insignificant under the weight of their words. Karen turns to Sponge Bob. "Take him to his room," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "I need to talk to Hanna." Sponge Bob nods slowly, his eyes filled with understanding. He gently helps Plankton to his feet, a steadying presence against Plankton's uncertain steps. As they walk to the bedroom, Plankton's gaze remains glued to the floor, his mind whirling with thoughts he can't quite grasp. Once Plankton is safely in bed, Sponge Bob tucks the blanket around him, his movements gentle and soothing. Plankton's body relaxes slightly under the comforting weight, his eye closing with a sigh. Karen turns to Hanna, unfurling from defensive pose. "You don't understand," she says, her voice calmer now, though still tinged with frustration. "The things you're suggesting, they're not just cruel, they're dangerous." Hanna's sobs slow, her eyes red and swollen. She looks at Karen with desperation, clearly lost in the ignorance. "What do you mean?" Karen's determined. "Straightjackets are used," she says, her words carefully measured. "They restrain patients, not help them." She pauses. "And those rituals you found, the ones that suggest them to make him 'normal'... They could kill.." Hanna's sobs stop abruptly, her breath hitching. "What?" she asks, shock etched on her features. Karen's eyes never leave Hanna's, her voice cold and devoid of pity. "You don't get to decide his worth, Hanna," she says, each word a bullet. "And you certainly don't get to decide his fate." Hanna's shoulders slump. "I'm so sorry," she whispers, her tears flowing freely. "I didn't know." Karen's expression softens slightly, the anger fading to disappointment. "You have to understand," she says. "Plankton is still Plankton. He just...sees the world differently now." Hanna sniffs, wiping away her tears. "But what if he's in pain?" she whispers. "What if his autism is making him miserable?" Karen sighs, her frustration dissipating. "He's not in pain," she explains. "He's just...sensitive. To everything. Sounds, smells, touch... exactly what the institutions expose them to, will cause pain." Hanna absorbs Karen's words. "Oh, I didn't..." she trails off, overwhelmed by the gravity of her mistake. "I'm so sorry, Karen. I didn't know." Karen nods, relaxing slightly. "I know," she says, her voice softer now. "It's a lot to take in, and it's scary when someone you love becomes...different." Hanna nods. "But you still love him," she says, a question and a statement wrapped in one. "More than anything," Karen replies without hesitation, her tentacles tightening around Hanna. "And I need you to love him too, Hanna." Hanna nods, swiping at her tears with the back of her hand. "I do," she whispers. "I just...I want him to be happy." Karen's tentacles give Hanna a gentle squeeze. "He is," she says, her voice filled with determined love. "And we'll make sure he stays that way." The two of them stand there, the silence of the moment heavy between them. Karen's eyes drift to the closed bedroom door, beyond which Plankton sleeps peacefully. The sounds of the Chum Bucket are muted, the only noise the distant hum of the laboratory equipment. In that quiet, Karen's tentacles relax slightly, the anger of the confrontation dissipating. She looks back at Hanna, her expression softening. "Thank you for coming," she says, her voice still firm but lacking the sharp edge of anger. "But you have to understand that this isn't something to be fixed. It's part of him now. Let's go check on him." They find SpongeBob sitting on the foot of the bed, his hand still entwined with Plankton's, their fingertips barely touching. Plankton's breathing is deep and even, a stark contrast to the turmoil of moments before. His antennae twitch occasionally, his mouth barely parted in a quiet snore. Hanna follows Karen into the room, her eyes wide and frightened. She sees Sponge Bob and his gentle touch with Plankton and her expression softens slightly. This is new to her, this quiet understanding, but she can't help but be moved by the sight. Sponge Bob looks up, his eyes filled with a certain sadness that mirrors Karen's. He nods silently, acknowledging her thanks. Hanna's eyes dart to Plankton, who remains fast asleep, his single eye closed peacefully. Karen sits beside the bed, reaching out to stroke Plankton's forehead. His skin is cool to the touch, his breathing steady. She whispers to Hanna, "We need to be careful with him. He's...fragile." Hanna nods, swallowing her tears. She moves closer, her own hand tentatively reaching out to touch Plankton's hand. His antennae twitch but he doesn't wake. The room is bathed in a soft glow, the dimmed lights designed to reduce stimulation and ease his sensory overload. Karen's breathing slows as she watches the scene before her, her heart swelling with love and gratitude for the support Sponge Bob is providing. Hanna's tentative touch seems to soothe Plankton, his snoring growing slightly more rhythmic. Sponge Bob smiles softly at Hanna, his thumb still moving in gentle circles around Plankton's. "You're doing good," he whispers. "He just needs us to be patient and understanding." Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's face. "I'll try," she says, her voice quiet and earnest. "I really will." Karen looks at Hanna, her eyes softening. "It's not easy," she admits. "But it's worth it." **NOTEs As an autistic writer (and I used AI to help me with the words) I do not encourage the ableism people have shown in their ignorance. Depending on when and where you live, some people have thought such therapies might be good, without actually accepting nor helping. Even Hans Asperger has supported eugenics during the war, sending people to internment camps leading to demise. I came across the site autismmemorial.wordpress.com if you'd like to educate yourself about how people have endured such.*

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KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY viii (Autistic author) Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his grip on Plankton's wrists loosening. "What accident?" he asks, his voice filled with dread. Plankton's smile is gone, replaced by a look of sadness. "Head," he says, his voice a barely-there whisper. "Hurt." He touches his forehead gently, his antennas drooping. Sponge Bob's eyes widen with realization, his grip on Plankton's wrists loosening entirely. "You got hurt?" he asks, his voice filled with concern. "What happened?" Plankton nods, his antennas still drooping. Sponge Bob's confusion grows, his anger replaced with worry. "What do you mean?" he asks, his voice softening. "What happened to your head?" Plankton's antennas twitch, his smile a distant memory. "Fall," he says, his voice a monotone. Sponge Bob's heart skips a beat. "You fell?" he asks, his voice filled with concern. "When? How?" Plankton nods, his eye flickering with something akin to pain. "Recently," he says, his voice flat. "Head bad." Sponge Bob's eyes widen in shock, his mind racing with questions. "You fell and hurt your head?" he repeats, his voice filled with disbelief. "Why didn't you tell me?" Plankton's gaze drops to his book, his hands fluttering over the pages. "No tell," he whispers, his voice filled with regret. "Shame." Sponge Bob's eyes fill with understanding, his anger evaporating like mist in the sun. "Oh, Plankton," he says, his voice soft. "You didn't have to keep this to yourself." Plankton's smile is a pale imitation of his usual self, his antennas still. "No good," he whispers, his voice barely audible. "Head hurt. Plankton bad." Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with worry as he tries to comprehend his friend's cryptic words. "You're not bad, Plankton," he says, his voice gentle. "You've just had an accident." Plankton's gaze remains fixed on the book, his hands flapping over the pages. "No," he says, his voice a sad echo. "Head bad. Plankton bad." His body slumps, his usual vibrant energy dimmed by his distress. Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with sadness as he tries to comfort his friend. "You're not bad, Plankton," he says, his voice soothing. "You're just hurt right?" Plankton's antennas twitch slightly, his hand stilling on the book. "Hurt," he echoes, his voice a monotone. "Inside head." He taps his forehead, his eye searching Sponge Bob's for understanding. "Grey matter. Neural pathways." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his confusion growing. "What do you mean, Plankton?" he asks, his voice filled with concern. "What's going on with your brain?" Plankton's hand continues to tap his forehead, his voice detached. "Neurochemicals," he says, his voice a robotic recital. "Synaptic connections. Autism." His smile is a mere memory, his eye glazed over with a faraway look. Sponge Bob's heart squeezes in his chest, his mind racing. "You're talking about your brain," he says, his voice tentative. "What's wrong with it?" Plankton's hand stops tapping, his gaze focusing on Sponge Bob. "Wiring," he says, his voice a monotone explanation. "Neuro- typical patterns disrupted affect the parts of brain when result in autism." His words are precise, his tone devoid of emotion. Sponge Bob's eyes widen with comprehension, his spongy heart sinking. "You're saying you have autism now?" he asks, his voice barely above a whisper. Plankton nods, his eye still fixed on the book. "Neurotypical divergence," he confirms, his voice still devoid of emotion. "Synaptic variance, myelination discrepancies." He speaks in a monotone, his words sounding rehearsed and mechanical. Sponge Bob's eyes fill with tears, his heart breaking for his friend. "What does that mean, Plankton?" he asks, his voice shaking. "Does that mean you're not okay?" Plankton's gaze remains on the book, his hand tracing the spine. "Neuro-typical divergence," he repeats, his voice a flat recitation of medical terms. "Synaptic connections altered. Atypical neural patterns. Autism." He speaks as if recounting a scientific paper, his tone lacking any personal connection. "When hit head, damaged the myelination," he says, his hand continuing its mechanical movement against the book. "Myelination is the insulation around the axons that speeds up the nerve impulses made in a part of brain we call the cerebral cortex. My cerebral cortex now restricts, slows down impulses." Sponge Bob listens, his mind racing to keep up with Plankton's sudden shift in vocabulary. "But what does that mean?" he asks, his voice filled with concern. "How'd the damage give you autism?" Plankton's hand stops its movement along the book. "Neurodivergence," he says, his voice a clinical recount. "My brain now operates outside typical parameters. Synaptic pruning, myelination patterns altered. Atypical neural networks formed." He speaks as if discussing a complex scientific experiment, his words a jumble of medical terminology that Sponge Bob barely understands. "Does that mean you're not okay?" Sponge Bob asks, his voice filled with fear. Plankton's hand stills on the book, his gaze unfocused. "Functional diversity," he says, his voice a hollow echo of the medical lingo he's been taught. "Neurodivergence can lead to unique cognitive strengths, but also challenges." He taps the book, his antennas waving slightly. "My brain's wiring changed," he says, his voice a monotone. "Synaptic clefts widened, neurotransmitters less efficient. Restricted blood flow to temporal lobes." Sponge Bob's eyes are filled with a mix of confusion and fear. "Does that mean you can't be... fixed?" he asks, his voice small. Plankton's antennas twitch, his gaze still unfocused. "Can't fix," he echoes, his voice a sad recitation. "Neuroplasticity, yes. Rewire, adapt. But cerebral cortex, permanent. Autism, permanent." Sponge Bob's eyes are wide, his mind reeling with the complexity of Plankton's words. "But, Plankton," he says, his voice quivering. "What about the Krabby Patties? Your plans?" Plankton's gaze snaps up, his hands still. "No plans," he says, his voice a sad echo. "No more steal." Sponge Bob's eyes widen, his heart racing. "You don't want to steal the Krabby Patties anymore?" he asks, his voice filled with hope and disbelief. Plankton's antennas droop, his hands flapping slightly. "No more schemes," he whispers, his voice a monotone. "No more steal." His eye meet Sponge Bob's, a flicker of his old mischief briefly shining through. "But," he adds, his smile mischievous, "still have competitive spirit." His hands begin to flap with excitement. Sponge Bob's heart soars with relief, a smile spreading across his face. "So, you're still the same Plankton," he says, his voice filled with hope. "Just... different. Ok, cool!" Plankton nods, his smile a ghostly reflection of his usual self. "Different," he repeats, his voice a sad echo. "But still have friend?" His antennas wave slightly, his eye searching Sponge Bob's for reassurance. Sponge Bob's heart swells with affection. "Of course, Plankton," he says, his voice firm. "We're still friends. Nothing can change that." He squeezes Plankton's shoulder, trying to convey his support.

KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY v (Autistic author) The room falls into a tense silence, the air thick with the unspoken words of regret and uncertainty. Plankton's humming becomes the only sound in the room. Sandy's eyes are glued to Plankton, watching his hands move in a mesmerizing pattern. His humming grows slightly louder, filling the space around them with a comforting buzz. Despite the simplicity of the act, it's a powerful declaration of his new reality. "Plankton are you ok?" Sandy asks him. Plankton's humming stops abruptly, his gaze snaps to her. "Book," he says with longing. "Want book." Sandy nods, her eyes glistening with newfound understanding. "Of course," she says, standing up. She and Karen move to the shelf where she had placed the book earlier. Karen reaches up, her hand carefully retrieving it. "Here," she says, her voice calm, handing the science book to him. He opens it, his gaze immediately drawn to the index table in the back. His eye scans the rows, his brain finding comfort in the predictability of the page numbers. He starts to read the index aloud, his voice a monotone that fills the room with a strange rhythm. "Quantum Mechanics... 134," he reads, his finger tracing the line. "Relativity, Special and General... 212." Karen and Sandy listen, their expressions a mix of wonder and concern. They've never seen Plankton so engrossed in anything other than his own schemes before. Sandy's gaze follows the movement of his finger as it traces the numbers, her mind trying to grasp the significance of his actions. "Why does he read the index like that?" she whispers to Karen. Karen's smile is filled with both love and pride. "It's his way of finding order," she concurs. "The numbers, the patterns, it brings him comfort." Sandy nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton. His focus on the book is intense, his voice a steady rhythm as he reads off the page numbers. "Biology... 37. Chemistry... 101," he drones. Karen sits beside him, her hand on his back, providing the gentle pressure he craves. The sound of his voice, the comfort of the book's familiar weight, it's all part of his new routine. Sandy sits opposite, her paws clasped in her lap, watching intently. Her gaze flickers from Plankton to Karen and back again. She's learning, trying to understand. Plankton's voice rises in excitement as he reaches the physics section. "Quantum Entanglement... 543!" he exclaims, his hands flapping. His eye lit up, a rare smile spreading across his face. Karen's smiles. This was the Plankton she knew, the one who found delight in the complexity of the universe. He reads on, his voice picking up speed. "String Theory... 621! Gravity Waves... 784!" His stimming becomes more animated, his hands fluttering like the wings of a butterfly, each flap a silent declaration of his newfound obsession with order. Sandy's curiosity is piqued, but she's careful not to interrupt, instead watching him with a newfound respect. Karen smiles, her hand still on his back, feeling the warmth of his excitement through her metal shell. "Plankton, why do you like the index so much?" Sandy asks, keeping her voice soft, when the doorbell rings. Karen's head snaps up, the interrupted moment forgotten. "I'll get it," she says, standing quickly. SpongeBob's face appears in the doorway. "Hi, Karen!" he says, his voice bright and cheerful. "Hi, Sandy!" Sandy's eyes dart to the closed bedroom door, then back to Karen. "I should go," she says, standing up. "Let you guys have some space." Karen nods, her gaze following Sandy's. "Thank you," she whispers. "Bye Sandy. Sponge Bob, come on in; Plankton's in the bedroom.." SpongeBob's now going in, his eyes wide with excitement. "What's up, Plankton?" he says, his voice a bubbly burst of enthusiasm. Plankton's head snaps up, his eye wide. "SpongeBob," he says, his voice excitedly affectionate. Sponge Bob's eyes widen at the sight of Plankton's intense focus on the book. "Wow, Plankton, you're really into that, huh?" Plankton's hands stop moving, his gaze shifting from the index to Sponge Bob's smiling face. "Sponge Bob," he says, his voice filled with glee. He jumps up from the bed, the book forgotten as he rushes to embrace his friend. Sponge Bob stumbles backward, surprise etched on his features as Plankton's arms wrap around his waist. "Whoa, buddy," he says, his eyes wide. "What's gotten into you?" Plankton's grip tightens, his body vibrating with joy. "Sponge Bob," he repeats, his voice a high-pitched squeak. Sponge Bob's smile falters, his hands awkwardly patting Plankton's back. "It's ok, Plankton," he says, his voice gentle. "I'm just here to visit." Plankton pulls away, his eye shining with joy with a warmth Sponge Bob isn't used to seeing from him. "Come, sit," he says, his voice eager. He pats the spot on the bed next to him. Sponge Bob's expression is a mix of happiness and concern. Sponge Bob sits down, his body tense. "Plankton, you ok?" he asks, his eyes searching Plankton's. Plankton nods, his hands still flapping in excitement. "Good," he says, his voice monotone yet earnest.

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KAREN AND THE AUTISTIC JOURNEY iii (Autistic author) The sound of the door opening interrupted. Sandy barged in. "Hey, Karen!" she called out. "Hi, Sandy; come in.." Karen says. Sandy looked over at Plankton sitting at the kitchen table, his plate empty, his gaze fixed on the spot where his food had been. "Hey, Plankton!" she exclaimed, as he got up to go sit on the living room floor with a science book. She followed him. "What's up, buddy?" she asked, her voice cheerful. But Plankton ignored her, his focus solely on the pages in front of him. Karen watched their interaction with a mix of concern and curiosity. "Plankton, you ok?" Sandy's voice grew softer, her eyes narrowing as she studied her friend. "You seem... different." Karen tensed, waiting for his response. Plankton didn't look up from his book, his eye scanning the pages. "Plankton?" Sandy tried again, her voice a mix of confusion and concern. But Plankton remained oblivious, his new condition rendering him unable to read social cues. "Why?" he asked, his tone matter-of-fact, as if inquiring about the weather. Sandy's smile faltered. "Well, you're just sitting there, not saying anything," she said, trying to keep the frustration from her voice. Plankton didn't look up from his book. "Reading," he said, his voice devoid of any inflection. Sandy's confusion grew into hurt. "Is everything ok?" she asked, her voice tentative. Plankton, still engrossed in his book, didn't look up. "Ok," he murmured. Sandy's known Plankton for years, but his behavior today was unlike anything she had ever seen. Karen prompts him. "Plankton, say hello to Sandy." He glances up from his book, his gaze passing over her without recognition. "Say, say hi Sandy," he says, his voice lacking any warmth. Sandy's smile fades, her paws clenching slightly with irritation. "What's gotten into you, Plankton?" she snaps, her voice sharper than she had intended. "You're acting like you don't even know me!" Karen's circuits whir with activity. "Sandy, it's okay," she hesitates, not quite sure how to explain without revealing the truth. "I'll go pick up some soda pop drinks." She says, leaving them both. Sandy watches her leave, her expression a mix of anger and hurt. She turns to Plankton. "What's your deal, Plankton?" she asks, her voice tight. "You've been acting weird ever since I got here." Plankton's eye snaps to hers, his gaze unnervingly intense. "Weird," he repeats, as if processing the word for the first time. "Different." Sandy's anger bubbles to the surface. "Yeah, you're different. You're ignoring me!" she exclaims, her paws on her hips. Plankton's expression doesn't change. "Reading," he says simply. Her frustration grows. "You're always reading, Plankton," Sandy says, her voice rising. "But you've never ignored me like this before!" Plankton's eye blinks, his focus shifting to her. "Sorry," he says, the word a mere echo of what he used to express. It's clear his social awareness has shifted. He doesn't understand the subtleties of her emotions anymore. Sandy's hurt turns to anger. "You don't just say sorry and go back to ignoring me," she snaps. "What's going on with you?" But Plankton seems lost in his own world, the words on the pages of his book more real to him than the friend standing before him. Sandy's patience wears thin. "Why aren't you listening to me?" she demands. "Listening," Plankton murmurs, his gaze never leaving the book. Sandy's eyes widen, her anger building. "I'm right here!" she says, her voice a mix of frustration and sadness. "What is so important that you can't even look at me?" But Plankton's mind is elsewhere, his thoughts racing through the pages of his book. The words swim before his eye, each line a puzzle waiting to be solved. He's oblivious to Sandy's hurt, his world now filtered through a new, more intense lens. Sandy's voice pierces through his concentration, her tone sharp. "I said, why aren't you listening to me?" Plankton looks up, his eye dilating slightly as he takes in Sandy's stance. He tries to interpret her body language. "Plankton reading," he says, his voice still flat, his gaze drifting back to the book. Sandy's eyes flash with anger. "That's not what I asked, Plankton!" she says, her voice rising. "What's going on with you? Why are you ignoring me?" Plankton's gaze flicks back to her, his expression still vacant. "Reading," he repeats. The word feels like a shield, a way to explain the inexplicable. Sandy's eyes narrow, her paws snatching the book from his grasp. Plankton's eye widens in surprise at the sudden movement. He tries to retrieve the book, body moving in jerky motions. "Book," he says, his voice still monotone. Sandy holds it out of reach. "Look at me Plankton!" Plankton's arms flail, his body straining to retrieve the book. "Book," he says, his voice desperate, his mind overwhelmed. Sandy, unable to understand feels her own anger flare up. "What's your problem?" she snaps, holding the book higher. "You're acting like a little kid!" Plankton's eye locks onto the book. "Mine," he whispers, voice strained. Sandy's seen him at his worst, but this is something she can't comprehend. "I'm not a toy for you to ignore!" she shouts. She hid the book on a high shelf. Plankton's body tenses. "Mine," he repeats, his voice rising in desperation. Sandy's eyes fill with tears of frustration. "Why are you acting like this?" He stands up, his body shaking. "MINE," he shouts. "What's gotten into you? Why are you being like this?" Plankton's eye darts around the room, unable to hold Sandy's gaze. "Plankton, you're acting like a complete jerk," Sandy says, her voice shaking. "No wonder Karen is always so tired with you." "Karen," Plankton murmurs. "Karen ok?" he asks, his voice filled with genuine concern. Sandy throws her arms in the air, exasperated. "How can you be so selfish? Don't you know that Karen is sick of you?" "Sick of me?" he echoes. "Yes, sick of you," she snaps. "Why don't you try acting normal? Perhaps then Karen would be happier! Or better yet, leave her!" The words hang in the air like a toxic cloud, their sting hitting Plankton's core. But his new brain can't process the depth of her anger. "Karen happy," he whispers, his voice a broken echo of his former self. Sandy's eyes flash with rage. "You don't know anything," she spits out, her words like acid. "You're just a selfish, self-centered plankton who doesn't care about how Karen feels!" Plankton's concepts of "selfish" and "sick of" are foreign to his new way of thinking. He tries to find the patterns in her words, the logic in her accusations, but it's like trying to solve an impossible equation. "No," he whispers, his voice trembling. "Karen not sick of me?" "You really don't get it, do you?" she says, her voice filled with a mix of anger and sadness. "You're so caught up you can't see what's right in front of you! Karen doesn't deserve this!" Plankton's eye narrows slightly, his mind struggling to piece together the puzzle of her emotions. "Karen happy," he repeats, his voice strained. Sandy's anger turns to despair. "You don't even know what you're saying," she says, her voice heavy. "You're so wrapped up in your own little world that you can't see how much Karen does for you, and how much you hurt her." As if on cue, Karen returns with coffee. "I'm back," she says, her voice a gentle hum. She notices the tension in the room and Plankton's distress. "Is everything ok?" she asks, placing the drinks on the table. Sandy glares at Plankton. "No," she says, her voice shaking. "Everything is not ok. Plankton's been acting weird all morning and, I told him how you're always tired of him, and he just doesn't get it." Karen takes in the scene. She tries to intervene gently. "Sandy, I think there's something you should know," she begins, but Sandy cuts her off, turning to Plankton. "See? Even Karen thinks you're a burden!" Plankton's world shatters. Sandy's words hit him like a tidal wave, her accusations sinking into his new reality. His teary gaze locks onto Karen, desperation in his voice. "Burden?" he croaks. Karen's circuits racing as she tries to smooth over the situation. "No, Sandy," she says, her voice calm but firm. "That's not what I said." "Don't lie to me, Karen," Sandy snaps, her eyes never leaving Plankton. "I can see you've had enough and if Plankton can't see that, then perhaps it's best if he just leaves." Karen's circuits race with a mix of emotions - anger at Sandy's accusations, sadness at Plankton's distress, and fear of what this means for their friendship. "That's not true," she says, yet Plankton's searching for any hint of deception. Sandy's eyes are steely, her body language confrontational. "Why don't you just leave her alone?" she spits out, her voice thick with frustration. Plankton stands up, his sobs echoed through the corridor as he runs back to the bedroom, shutting the door with a thud. "Sandy that was uncalled for," she says, trying to keep her voice steady. Sandy's anger turns to surprise. "What are you talking about?" she says. "I'm just telling the truth.." Karen's expression is a mix of sorrow and anger, her voice tight. "You don't know what he's going through." Sandy's anger fades, replaced by confusion. "What do you mean?" she asks, her voice softer. Karen takes a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation she had been dreading. "Plankton had an accident, hit his head on the vault and got knocked out." Sandy's in shock. "What? Is he ok?" she asks. Karen sighs, her shoulders slumping. "Plankton has autism now," she says. "He can't help the way he's acting." The revelation hits Sandy like a ton of bricks. The realization of her own harshness crashes over her. "Oh no," she murmurs, her eyes filling with tears. "I had no idea." Her gaze drifts to the closed bedroom door. "What have I done?" she whispers, her voice cracking.

KAREN REACHING AUTISM pt. 15 (Autistic author) ᵂᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍˢ: ʰᵒˢᵖⁱᵗᵃˡ Sandy and Sponge Bob leave the room while Karen stays for the surgery. The doctor's tentacles move with practiced ease. The room hummed with a gentle consistency of medical equipment, designed to avoid jarring sounds. The doctor's eyes were focused, his voice a steady rhythm of instructions for the nurse. She put the IV in, a swift and precise motion, and Plankton's snores remained undisturbed. The surgery begins, each movement calculated to minimize pain. The doctor's tentacles dance around the broken limb, his touch as light as a feather. The smell of antiseptic hangs in the air, but it's faint, not overwhelming. Plankton's body lies still, his snores the only sound besides the low whisper of instruments coating the bone. The nurse's eyes flick to the clock on the wall, the seconds ticking by like a metronome to the rhythm of the doctor's work. The room is a symphony of soft sounds: the steady beep of the heart monitor, the low mumble of the doctor's instructions. Plankton's tiny body lies motionless, his snores the only evidence of life. They put his leg in a cast and unhook the IV. Sponge Bob and Sandy wait outside, their minds racing with worries and hope. Their conversation is whispers, not wanting to disturb the peaceful hum of the Quiet Bubble Clinic. The nurse beckons them back in. "The surgery was a success," she says, her voice a gentle gust of relief. Plankton lies in the bed, his leg now encased in a cast. His snores are quieter, his body less tense. Sponge Bob and Sandy hover by his side, their eyes locked on his peaceful face. "But we need to be prepared for his waking," the nurse continues, her voice a soft warning. "He might wake up feeling disoriented or overwhelmed. Also, it takes time for the anesthesia to fully wear off, so he might be groggy and silly, sleepy or even a bit forgetful." They nod, their expressions a mix of gratitude and anticipation. The doctor enters the room, his tentacles wiped clean of any sign of surgery. "He'll need to stay here for a bit, to recover," he says, his voice a gentle rumble. "But you can stay with him. After he's fully awake, you can take him home! Just be careful, of course." Sponge Bob's eyes light up, his grip on Plankton's hand tightening. "We'll make sure he's okay," he says, his voice a promise. Sandy nods, her face a mask of determined calm. "Thank you," Karen says, her voice a gentle hum of appreciation. The doctor nods, his tentacles flicking a dismissive wave. "It's what we're here for," he says, his voice a warm rumble. "Now, let's get him settled." They work together, Sponge Bob and Sandy supporting Plankton as they move his bed to a recovery room, his body still asleep as Karen holds his hand. The room is painted with soft, soothing colors, and the bed is surrounded by pillows and blankets that seem to swallow his small frame. The lights are dimmed, a stark contrast to the stark whites and harsh florescents of a normal hospital. Sponge Bob sits on the chair beside his bed, his eyes never leaving Plankton's sleeping face. The gentle whirl of a fan in the corner provides white noise, a comforting constant hum that fills the silence. Sandy sits on the other side, her hand resting lightly on the foot of the bed. Her eyes are glued to a book titled "Understanding Neurodivergence in Friends," her expression focused. Karen meanwhile was holding his other hand. Plankton's antennae twitches as the gentle hum of the recovery room starts to pierce his slumber. His single eye opens to a sliver, taking in the soft, blurry world around him. He blinks, trying to focus, and sees Karen first. "Hey, buddy," she says, her voice a warm buzz of comfort. "You're okay." Plankton's eye widens, his brain foggy from the anesthesia. "Wheh..." he starts, his voice a static whisper. Sponge Bob's hand squeezes his gently. "You're at the Quiet Bubble Clinic," he says, his voice a soft wave of reassurance. "You had your leg fixed." Plankton's antennae wave slowly, his eye blinking as realization sets in. "Mr. Krabs," he whispers, his voice a static memory of pain. Sponge Bob's thumb pauses in its comforting rhythm. "Don't worry about him now," he says, his voice a gentle lapping of waves. "You're safe here." Plankton's antennae twitch with confusion, his mind a foggy storm of memories. He tries to sit up, but the nurse's firm hand gently pushes him back down. "Easy," she whispers, her voice a soft breeze. "You need to rest." Sponge Bob's face is a picture of relief as Plankton's eye focusses on him. "Remember, buddy?" he asks, his voice a gentle reminder. "You're safe." Plankton's antennae quiver with the echoes of pain, but the soothing presence of his friends begins to anchor him. He nods slightly, his voice a static rustle. "Sandy?" he asks, his gaze shifting to her. Sandy looks up from her book, her eyes soft. "I'm here," she says, her voice a gentle hum. She sets the book aside and takes his hand. Plankton's antennae twitch with confusion, his eye darting around the room. The softness of the pillows and the gentle hum of the fan are alien to him. "Where...?" he whispers, his voice a static question. The nurse's smile is a beacon of calm. "You're at the Quiet Bubble Clinic," she says, her voice a comforting trill. "You're safe." Plankton's mind is a swirl of fuzzy images and half-remembered fears. He tries to piece together what happened, his antennae flailing for answers. The nurse's voice is a gentle guide, leading him through the mist. "You had surgery," she murmurs, her eyes kind. "Your leg is fixed now. Just rest." Plankton's eye blinks slowly, trying to comprehend the words. The pain is gone, replaced by a dull throb and the weight of the cast. He nods, his body still feeling the aftermath of the anesthesia's embrace. The room is a soft blur, the edges of his vision dancing with colors. He tries to lift his head, but it feels too heavy. Sponge Bob's grip is steady, keeping him grounded as the world slowly sharpens. Plankton's thoughts are like bubbles popping in the sea, each one briefly forming before disappearing into the depths. The nurse's voice is a distant lullaby, guiding his consciousness back to the surface. He blinks again, his vision slowly coming into focus. The nurse's face swims into view, her smile a lifeline in the murky water of his confusion. "You're okay," she whispers, her voice a gentle ripple. "Just rest." The room sways like an underwater garden, the soothing sounds of the recovery room a soft symphony that Plankton can't quite place. His mind is a kaleidoscope of half-formed thoughts. Sponge Bob's hand is a steady beacon, the gentle squeeze a comforting reminder that he's not alone. Plankton's eye widens as he takes in the sight of his friend, his face a canvas of concern. "You're okay," Sponge Bob whispers, his voice a gentle wave washing over the static in Plankton's mind. Suddenly, Sponge Bob's phone beeps, a video call request from an unexpected name: Mr. Krabs. Sandy's eyes widen and she looks at Sponge Bob, who nods slowly, his heart pounding in his chest. He accepts the call, the screen filling with the familiar craggy face of their grumpy neighbor. Mr. Krabs looks sheepish, his eyes darting around the screen. "Plankton," he starts, his voice a gruff whisper. "I heard what happened with the autism and broken leg.." Sponge Bob's grip on Plankton's hand tightens, his face a mask of caution. Plankton's antennas quiver with apprehension. "What Krabs want?" Plankton mumbles, his voice a static hiss. His single eye narrows. Mr. Krabs clears his throat, his face a portrait of discomfort. "Look, Plankton, I... I wanted to say... I'm sorry." His eyes dart to the side, avoiding the camera. Plankton's antennae stand on end, his eye unblinking. "What for?" he asks, his voice a wary whisper. Mr. Krabs' face scrunches up, his claws fidgeting with his apron strings. "For, uh, you know, the frying pan... and the... uh, everything." Plankton's antennae twitch with surprise, his voice a static hush. "Why?" Mr. Krabs looks away, his eyes anywhere but on the screen. "I know I've been... rough on you lately," he says, his voice a gruff rumble. "And I didn't know about the... the autism thing. It's just, the Krabby Patty formula is all I've got, and I can't... I don't know how to make it up to ye but I just called to let ye know." Plankton's antennae quiver with shock, his eye wide. "Mr. Krabs," he whispers, his voice a static hum. "Is this... real?" Mr. Krabs nods, his face a map of regret. "Yeah, it's me," he says, his voice a gruff mumble. "I know I've not been the best... neighbor, or... frenemy." Sponge Bob's eyes are wide, his grip on Plankton's hand unwavering. Sandy's jaw is slack with disbelief. "Mr. Krabs," Karen's voice is a cautious whisper. "That's... really nice of you to say." Mr. Krabs nods, his eyes returning to the screen. "It's just, I've seen what you've gone through, and I... I shouldn't have hurt you." His claws fiddle with his apron, a rare show of vulnerability. "And I forgive ye."

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ᴰᵒᵘᵇˡᵉ ⁱˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵀʳᵒᵘᵇˡᵉ ⁽ᔆᵖᵒⁿᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃⁿᶠⁱᶜ⁾ Part 1 ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷⁱᶠᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ʳⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳᵉᵈ ⁱᵗ‧ 'ᴹᵘˢᵗ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ʷʳᵒⁿᵍ ⁿᵘᵐᵇᵉʳ ᵒʳ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵖᵒⁱˢᵒⁿⁱⁿᵍ' ˢʰᵉ ᶠⁱᵍᵘʳᵉˢ‧ "ᵂᵉ'ʳᵉ ᴮⁱᵏⁱⁿⁱ ᴮᵒᵗᵗᵒᵐ ʰᵒˢᵖⁱᵗᵃˡ‧" 'ᴹᵘˢᵗ ᵇᵉ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ ᵖᵒⁱˢᵒⁿⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴮᵘᵗ ʷᵉ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵒˡᵈ ᵃⁿʸ ᶜʰᵘᵐ! ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵃⁿʸ ʷᵉᵃᵖᵒⁿʳʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰᵉ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ‧' "ᴴᵉˡˡᵒ ᴵ'ᵐ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴴᵒʷ ᶜᵃⁿ ᴵ ʰᵉˡᵖ ʸᵒᵘ?" "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ‧" "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵒˢᵖⁱᵗᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵃⁿʸ ᵖᵃᵗʳᵒⁿˢ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ⸴ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁱⁿ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ‧" 'ᵂʰᵃᵗ‽' "ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ʷⁱˢᵈᵒᵐ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ⁱʳʳⁱᵗᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵃ ᵏⁱᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᵃᶜᵉ ᵇʸ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵈᵉᶠᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵉᵃˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ‧‧‧" "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ʳⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗᵒ!" ᔆʰᵉ ᵃʳʳⁱᵛᵉᵈ‧ "ᴴⁱˢ ʷⁱˢᵈᵒᵐ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ʷᵉʳᵉ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗ ᵉʳᵘᵖᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵘᵐˢ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵘʳᵗ‧ ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ᵘⁿᶜᵒⁿˢᶜⁱᵒᵘˢ ˢⁱⁿᶜᵉ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵉ'ᵛᵉ ᵃⁿᵃᵉˢᵗʰᵉᵗⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵉˣᵗʳᵃᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿˢ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵃⁿˣⁱᵒᵘˢ ʷʰᵉⁿ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ʰᵉ ʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵘᵖ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʳᵉᶜᵉⁱᵛᵉᵈ ᵃ ᵖᵃᵐᵖʰˡᵉᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵒᵒᵐ ᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᵃⁿʸ ⁿᵒⁱˢᵉ‧ ᴴⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ʳᵉᵐᵃⁱⁿˢ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᵇʳᵒʷ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵉᵛᵉⁿ ᶠᵘʳʳᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ʸᵉᵗ‧ ᵀʰᵉʸ ʰᵃˡᵗᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵃᵉˢᵗʰᵉᵗⁱˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʳᵉᵃˡⁱˢᵉᵈ ʰᵉ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃᶜᵗ ᵘᵖ ᵈᵘᵉ ᵗᵒ ⁱᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ⁱⁿʲᵘʳʸ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ⁱᵗ'ᵈ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒ ˡᵒⁿᵍᵉʳ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ⁱⁿᶠˡᵘᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵒʳ ⁿᵘᵐᵇᵉᵈ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ʰᵉˡᵈ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ᴺⁿʰ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ᵉʸᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᶠˡᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ‧ "ᵂʰᵘʰ? ᵂʷᵘʰ ʷʰ⁻ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵒⁱⁿ’ ᵒⁿ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖᵃᵗˢ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵉˡᵈ‧ "ᴴⁱ⸴ ˢʷᵉᵉᵗˢ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ "ᴷᵃʳᵉ⁻⁻⁻⁻ ᴷ⁻ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ; ʷʰᵃ⁻ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ‽" 'ᵂᵃⁱᵗ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ᵃᵐ ᴵ' "ʸᵒᵘ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʷᵉ ᵃʳᵉ?" ᴬ ⁿᵘʳˢᵉ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ʷᵃⁿⁿᵃ ᶠʳᵘˢᵗʳᵃᵗᵉ ʰⁱᵐ‧ "ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃˡˡ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ‧‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵍᵉᵗ ˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ⁱⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵃ ˢⁱᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵖᵒˢⁱᵗⁱᵒⁿ‧ "ᴵ'ˡˡ ᶜᵃʳʳʸ‧‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ⸴ ᵇᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ʳᵉ ᵖᵘᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ⁿᵒʷ‧ "ᴬ ᵏʳᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵃᵗᵗʸ! ᴮᵘ’ ʷʰʸ ᶜᵃⁿ'ᵗ ᴵ ᵗᵃˢᵗᵉ ⁱᵗ⁻ᵗ?" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ⁿᵘᵐᵇ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᶠᵒᵒᵈ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ʰⁱˢ ʰᵃⁿᵈˢ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᶜʰᵉᵉᵏˢ‧ "ᴰⁱ⁻ ᴵ ᵇᵉᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵃ ᶜʰⁱᶜᵏ ᵐᵒⁿᵏ ʷⁱᵏᵉ ᔆᵃⁿᵈʸ?" "ᔆʰᵉ'ˢ ᵃ ˢᑫᵘⁱʳʳᵉˡ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵒ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖⁱᶜᵏˢ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᵉ‧ ᴴᵉ ᶠᵉˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ ⁱⁿ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵃⁿᵈ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡⁱⁿᵍ‧ ᴬᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉʸ ˡᵉᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐ ᵍᵒ ˢʰᵉ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵗʳᵃⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱˢ ᵇᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ʳᵒᵒᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵒᵏᵉ ᵃˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵈᵒʷⁿ‧ "ᵂᵉ'ʳᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ!" "ᴾˡᴬⁿᵏᵀᵒᴺ?" ᴴᵉ ᵃˢᵏˢ‧ "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷⁱᵏᵉˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵗᵃʸ‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵗᵃʸ ʷⁱᵗʰ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢ⁻ᵃʷ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇⁱᵍ‧ ᴮⁱᵍ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵐᵃʷʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴴᵘʳᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ‧" ᴴᵉ ʳᵃᵐᵇˡᵉᵈ‧ "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?" "ʸᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜᵒᵘʳˢᵉ ᴵ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ! ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ'ˢ ⁱⁿ ˡᵒᵛᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ ˢᵐᵃʷʷ?" "ᴺᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵐᵃˡˡ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᶜᵒⁿᶠᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵃˡˢᵒ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢᵉᵈ ʷʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵗᵒᵈᵃʸ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡ‧ "ᔆᵉᵉⁱⁿᵍ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ?" "ᵂʰᵃᵗ?" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷⁱˢʰ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵇʷⁱⁿᵍˢ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵒʷ ᵗᵃˡᵏ‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁿᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ˡⁱᵏᵉ‧‧‧" "ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵖʷᵉᵃˢᵉ⸴ ˢᵒ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢⁱᵍʰˢ‧ "ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰⁱᵐ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧" ᴴᵉ ᵖⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ‧ "ᴷʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᴷʳᵃᵇ?" "ʸᵉˢ ᵐʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ʷⁱˢʰᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ˢᵖᵉᵃᵏ‧‧‧" "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ‧" "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ˢᵉᵉⁿ ᵉⁿᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵒʳ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ˢᵒʷʷʸ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵉᵃʳᵉᵗʰ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶜᵒᵐᵉᵗʰ ᵒᵛᵉʳ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷⁱᵏᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʰᵘᵍ‧" "ᴵ ᵈᵒⁿ'ᵗ ᵇᵉˡⁱᵉᵛᵉ ʸᵒᵘ; ⁿⁱᶜᵉ ᵗʳʸ!" "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ᵗᵃˡᵏ ᵗᵒ ʰⁱᵐ‧‧‧" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵉⁿᵗ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇⁱᵍ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ'ˢ ˢᵐᵃʷʷ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵇˡᵃᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵃ ʰᵘᵍ?" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶜʳⁱᵉᵈ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵉᵛᵉʳ! ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʰᵘʳᵗ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉ ᶠʳᵉⁿ'ˢ⸴ ˢʰᵒʷ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʷᵘᵛ?" "ᴬᵇˢᵒˡᵘᵗᵉˡʸ ⁿᵒᵗ‧" ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʸˢ⸴ ᵒᶠᶠᵉⁿᵈⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ?" "ᵂʰᵃᵗ ⁱˢ ⁱᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵖᵃᵘˢᵉᵈ ᵐᵒᵐᵉⁿᵗᵃʳⁱˡʸ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵏ ᵒᶠ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵃʳᵗⁱᶜᵘˡᵃᵗᵉ‧ "ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵐⁱˢˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵗᵒ?" "ᴺᵒ ᴵ ᵈⁱᵈⁿ'ᵗ ᵐⁱˢˢ⸴ ᴵ ᵏⁱᶜᵏᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰⁱᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵒⁿ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ ᵗʳʸ!" "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵐⁱˢˢ‧‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ ᵗʳʸⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵃᵈᵐⁱᵗ ᵈᵉᶠᵉᵃᵗ? ᴵ ᵃᶜᶜᵉᵖᵗ‧‧" "‧‧‧ᴵ ᵐⁱˢˢ ᵇᵉⁱⁿ⁻ ʰᵃᵛ⁻ ᵘˢ ᵇᵉ ᶠʷᵉⁿˢ!" ᶜʳⁱᵉˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ʰᵃⁿᵍⁱⁿᵍ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ᵃˢ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ ᶠˡᵘᵗᵗᵉʳˢ‧ "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉᵗʰ ⁿᵒʷ ᵇᴱᶜᴬᵘᔆᵉ⸴ ᵇᵉᶜᵃᵘ…" "‧‧‧ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ?" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃˢᵏᵉᵈ⸴ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵗʳᵃⁱˡᵉᵈ ᵒᶠᶠ ᵗᵒ ˢⁿᵒʳⁱⁿᵍ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵃˢˢᵘᵐᵉᵈ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ʳᵉˢᵉʳᵛᵉᵈ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵃⁿᵃᵉˢᵗʰᵉᵗⁱˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ˢᵒʳᵉ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʳᵉᵖˡᵃᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵘᵗ ᶠᵉˡᵗ ⁱᵗ ᵘⁿⁿᵉᶜᵉˢˢᵃʳʸ ᵗᵒ ʷᵃᵏᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒⁿⁱᵍʰᵗ‧ ᵂʰᵉⁿᶜᵉ ᵐᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ⸴ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵃʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᶜˡᵉᵃⁿᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ʰⁱˢ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᵒᶠᶠ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴱᵛᵉⁿᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿᵉᵈ ʰⁱˢ ᵉʸᵉ‧ "ᴹᵒʳⁿⁱⁿᵍ⸴ ᔆʰᵉˡᵈᵒⁿ!" 'ᴵ ᵈᵒᵘᵇᵗ ʰᵉ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵘᵖᵗᵘʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱˢ ʷⁱˢᵈᵒᵐ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ' ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ‧ 'ᵂʰᵃᵗ ⁱˢ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉ— ᵈᵒ ᴵ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒᵍᵍʸ ⁱⁿ ᵐʸ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ? ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᵘⁿˢᵘʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ ˡᵃˢᵗ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ!' ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ʳᵉᵃᶜʰᵉᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ⁱⁿ ʰⁱˢ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ˢᵘʳᵖʳⁱˢᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʳᵉᵈ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ‧ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵍᵉᵗˢ ⁱᵗ ᵗᵒ ʳⁱᵈ ᵒᶠ ⁱᵗ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠᵉᵉˡˢ ᵈⁱˢᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗ‧ ᔆʰᵉ ᵗʰᵉⁿ ᵍⁱᵛᵉˢ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ᵃ ᶜᵒᵐᵖʳᵉˢˢ ⁿᵒʷ‧ ᴼⁿˡʸ ᶠʳᵃᵍᵐᵉⁿᵗˢ ᵒᶠ ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳᵈᵃʸ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵐⁱⁿᵈ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ʰᵘʳᵗ ʰⁱᵐ‧ ᵀʰᵉⁿ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ⸴ ʷⁱᵗʰ ᵐᵉᵈⁱᶜˢ? ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵘᶜᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʰⁱᵐ ⁱⁿ ˢʷᵉᵉᵗˡʸ‧ ᴺᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵉˡˢᵉ‧ ᴬᵗ‧ ᴬˡˡ‧ ᴰⁱᵈ ʰᵉ ᵈʳᵉᵃᵐ ⁱᵗ ᵒʳ ʷᵃˢ ʰᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵃˢˡᵉᵉᵖ? 'ᴵ ᵈᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳ ˢˡᵉᵉᵖⁱⁿᵍ‧‧' "ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ᵘᵖ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵐᵒᵘᵗʰ ˢᵒ ᴵ ᶜᵃⁿ ᵖᵘᵗ ⁿᵉʷ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ⁱⁿ⸴ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢᵗⁱˡˡ ᵇˡᵉᵉᵈⁱⁿᵍ ˢᵒ ᵒᵖᵉⁿ ʷⁱᵈᵉ‧" "ᴮˡᵉᵉᵈⁱⁿᵍ‽" "ᴺᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵃᵈ‧" ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᶠˡⁱⁿᶜʰᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ˢʰᵉ ᵈⁱᵈ ˢᵒ‧ "ᴰᵒⁿᵉ!" ᔆᵃʸˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ⸴ ᵃᶠᵗᵉʳ ᵖᵘᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵍᵃᵘᶻᵉ ⁱⁿ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵗᵃᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳ ᶠⁱⁿᵍᵉʳˢ ᵒᵘᵗ‧ ᴬ ᵗʳᵃⁱˡ ᵒᶠ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ‧ "ᵁⁿʰ‧" ᴴᵉ ˡᵉᵃⁿˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ‧ "ᵂʰʸ͏‧‧‧" "ʸᵉˢᵗᵉʳᵈᵃʸ ᴹʳ‧ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵉᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵈⁱˢˡᵒᵈᵍᵉᵈ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵍʳᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʷⁱˢᵈᵒᵐ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉⁿ ˢᵘʳᵍⁱᶜᵃˡˡʸ ʳᵉᵐᵒᵛᵉᵈ‧" "ᵂʰᵉⁿ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵃ⸴ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵏ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ʰⁱˢ ᵒʷⁿ ᵗᵉᵉᵗʰ!" 'ᴺᵒᵗ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵃⁱᵈ ᵒⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒⁿᵉ ʷⁱᵗʰ ʰⁱᵐ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᵍˡᵃᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘʳˢᵉˡᶠ ᵃᵍᵃⁱⁿ' ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ⸴ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ‧ "ᔆᵘʳᵉ‧‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵖᵖᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠᵘʳⁱᵒᵘˢ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᵒⁿˡʸ ᵏⁿᵉʷ‧ 'ᴮᵉᵗ ʸᵃᵖᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᵍᵃᵛᵉ ʰⁱᵐ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ˢᵒʳᵉⁿᵉˢˢ‧' "ᴶᵘˢᵗ ʳᵉˢᵗ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ‧" "ᴵ ᵏⁿᵒʷ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵒ ˢᶜʰᵉᵐᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ‧ ᴬⁿᵈ ᵇᵉˢⁱᵈᵉˢ⸴ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵒʳˢᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵐᵘˢᵗ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵉᵉ ᵐᵉ ᵛᵘˡⁿᵉʳᵃᵇˡᵉ! ᴺᵒᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵉⁿᵗⁱᵒⁿ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᶠᵒᵘⁿᵈ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵐʸ ˢᵘʳᵍᵉʳʸ!" ᔆᵃʸˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ⸴ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁱⁿᵍ ʷʰⁱˡˢᵗ ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˢᵐⁱˡᵉˢ‧ "ᴵᵐᵃᵍⁱⁿᵉ ⁱᶠ ʰᵉ ᵏⁿᵉʷ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵐʸ ʰᵒˢᵖⁱᵗᵃˡⁱˢᵃᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᴵ'ᵈ ⁿᵉᵛ’ʳ ˡⁱᵛᵉ ⁱᵗ ᵈᵒʷⁿ! ᴬⁿᵈ ᵐᵉ ᵗᵃʷᵏⁱⁿᵍ ʷᵉⁱʷᵈ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ⁿᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈ ᵃˢ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃⁿᵈ ˢⁱᵍʰˢ‧ "ᴵᵗ ʰᵘʳᵗˢ‧" "ᵂᵉˡˡ ᵍᵉᵗᵗⁱⁿᵍ ʸᵒᵘʳˢᵉˡᶠ ʷᵒʳᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᵒⁿ'ᵗ ʰᵉˡᵖ!" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵒˡᵈ‧ "ʸᵒᵘʷ ʷⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ʰᵉ'ˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ʷᵒʳᵗʰ ⁱᵗ‧ ᵁʳᵍʰ ᵐʸ ᶜʰᵉᵉᵏˢ ˢᵉᵉᵐ ᵖᵘᶠᶠʸ‧‧" "ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗⁱⁿᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵇʳᵘⁱˢᵉ ᶠᵒʳᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵃˡˡ ⁿᵒʳᵐᵃˡ‧ ᴵᵗ'ˡˡ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳ ᵇʸ ⁿᵉˣᵗ ʷᵉᵉᵏ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ᵗᵉˡˡˢ ᴾˡᵃⁿᵏᵗᵒⁿ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵒʳ‧ "ᵀᵉˡˡ 'ᵉᵐ ⁿᵒᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵘⁿˡᵉˢˢ ⁱᵗ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ˡᵒˢᵗ‧" ᴷᵃʳᵉⁿ ˡᵉᶠᵗ⸴ ⁿᵒʷ ᵒᵖᵉⁿⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᶠʳᵒⁿᵗ ᵈᵒᵒʳ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴱᵘᵍᵉⁿᵉ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ‧ cont. pt. two

A JOURNEY TO AUTISM viii (Autistic author) Plankton's antennas lift slightly. "Game," he whispers, his voice shaking. "Just game." Mr. Krabs' eyes narrow, his claws tense. "If it's just a game, then why are you acting so strange?" he snaps at Plankton. Plankton's antennas wobble with effort to maintain control. "Because," he starts, his voice shaky, "Plankton... different." Mr. Krabs stares at Sponge Bob, his expression unyielding. "Different?" he echoes, his eyes darting to Plankton, then back to his employee. Sponge Bob nods, his voice trembling. "Yes, Mr. Krabs, Plankton's been through something that's changed him." He looks at Karen for support, but she stays silent, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and hope. Mr. Krabs crosses his arms, his eyebrow quivering with skepticism. "What do you mean, changed him?" he asks. "Is he trying to steal the Krabby Patty formular again?" Sponge Bob's frustration rises. "No, Mr. Krabs," he says, his voice steady. "It's not like that. Plankton has... a condition." Mr. Krabs' skepticism turns to curiosity. "Condition?" he repeats, his voice softer. Sponge Bob nods, swallowing the lump in his throat. "He's been diagnosed with acquired autism," he explains, his voice barely above a whisper. Mr. Krabs' eyes widen, his mouth dropping open as the words sink in. He turns to Karen, his gaze demanding confirmation. "Is it true?" he asks, his voice gruff. Karen nods solemnly, her circuits flickering with a mix of sadness and hope. "Yes," she says gently. "Plankton has an acquired form of autism." Mr. Krabs' expression shifts from skepticism to shock. He looks at Plankton. "Autism?" he repeats, his voice barely above a murmur. "But... but how?" Karen's LED lights dim slightly. "I don't think he'd like to answer that question" she says, her voice clinical. "It's caused a significant shift in his neural functioning." Mr. Krabs' gaze remains on Plankton, his expression one of dawning understanding. "Was me fry pan..." he starts, his voice trailing off. Plankton's antennas drop, and he nods slowly. "Yes," he whispers. "Krabs pan." Mr. Krabs' face crumbles, his claws clenching into fists. "I didn't mean to," he stammers, his voice choking with regret. "I was just trying to keep me formular safe." Plankton's antennas twitch, his single eye welling with unshed tears. Mr. Krabs' guilt is palpable, his eyes swimming with remorse. "I'm sorry, Plankton," he says hoarsely. "I had no idea." But Plankton's gaze doesn't soften. His stare is unyielding, his voice cold. "Sorry not enough," he says, his words clipped. "Hurt, Mr. Krabs hurt Plankton bad." Mr. Krabs' heart squeezes at the accusation in Plankton's voice. He's never heard him speak like this before, with such raw emotion. "I know," he says remorsefully, his voice cracking. "I know I hurt you, Plankton. I'm so, so sorry." But Plankton's unforgiving gaze doesn't waver. "No," he insists, his voice still cold. "Not just sorry. Mr. Krabs must understand." Mr. Krabs nods, his eyes brimming with tears. "I do," he chokes out. "I understand. What can I do to help?" Plankton's antennas still don't move, his expression unreadable. Mr. Krabs' reaches for Plankton's shoulder. That's the last straw. With a burst of energy, Plankton pushes away the clawed hand. "No touch," he snaps, his voice cold. "Mr. Krabs not understand." His words are like shards of ice, each one cutting deeper into Mr. Krabs' guilt. Mr. Krabs' face falls, his hand retreating quickly. "But I do," he insists, his voice desperate. "I swear, Plankton, I do." But Plankton's expression remains stony, his antennas rigid. "No," he says simply. "Krabs don't." His voice is a knife, slicing through the tension in the room. Mr. Krabs' eyes water, his heart heavy with regret. "I swear, Plankton," he pleads. "I'll do anything to make it right." But Plankton's gaze remains steady, his unforgiving gaze bearing into Mr. Krabs' soul. "Make right?" he echoes. "Cannot make right. Cannot change. Krabs fault." Mr. Krabs' shoulders sag with the weight of Plankton's words. He knows his rival is right; he can't reverse what's been done, no matter how much he wishes it. "But I want to help," he says desperately. "Please, tell me how..." But Plankton's expression is a mask of coldness, his antennas unyielding. "Help?" he echoes, his voice dripping with skepticism. "Krabs can't help." His gaze slides to the discarded chessboard, his eyes lingering on the scattered pieces. "Too late." Mr. Krabs' shoulders sag with the weight of Plankton's rejection. "Please," he says desperately. "I didn't know. I just want to make it better." But Plankton's unforgiving gaze doesn't falter. His stare is a mirror reflecting Mr. Krabs' own guilt and regret. "Better?" he repeats, his voice devoid of emotion. "Cannot be. No cure. Just stop." Mr. Krabs' eyes well with tears, his heart aching with the pain of his mistake. "But I want to fix it," he says pleadingly. "I want to make it right." But Plankton's gaze doesn't soften. "No fix," he says flatly. "Cannot change what is." His single eye seems to bore into Mr. Krabs, his voice unyielding. "Krabs hurt Plankton. Krabs must live with." Mr. Krabs hangs his head, his shoulders heaving with sobs. "I'm sorry," he whispers, his voice breaking. "I'll do anything." But Plankton simply shakes his head, his antennas still. "Cannot change," he murmurs. "Must live with." His eye are empty, devoid of the malicious spark that once fueled his quest for the Krabby Patty formula. Normally Plankton would love to cause such a reaction out of Mr. Krabs. Mr. Krabs' sobs grow louder, his guilt consuming him. "But I didn't mean to," he wails. "It was just a mistake." Plankton's antennas twitch slightly. "Mistake," he echoes, his voice still cold. "Mistake not enough." His eye are unrelenting, his stare piercing through Mr. Krabs' soul. "You hurt me," he says, his words a quiet thunder clap in the tense silence. "Mistake changed me." Mr. Krabs looks up, his eyes red with tears. "I know," he says, his voice thick with regret. "I know I hurt you, Plankton. Yet I didn't know how bad..." But Plankton's expression is one of resentment, his antennas twitching with anger. "Hurt," he says, his voice cold. "Krabs hurt Plankton. Krabs must understand." His gaze doesn't waver from Mr. Krabs, his accusation hangs in the air like a heavy fog. Mr. Krabs' sobs quiet, his eyes swimming with regret. He opens his mouth to speak, but the words catch in his throat. "I do underst--" "No," Plankton interrupts, his voice like a whip. "You don't." His antennas wave with agitation, his eye flashing with a cold fire. "You don't understand pain." His words are sharp, cutting through Mr. Krabs' protests. Mr. Krabs' expression falls, his claws trembling. "I see that now," he whispers, his voice racked with emotion. "But what can I do?" His desperation is clear, his eyes searching Plankton's face for any sign of forgiveness. "I'd even give you a krabby patty.." But Plankton's expression doesn't change. His antennas remain rigid, his eye still cold. "Krabby Patty not fix," he says simply. "Cannot fix brain." His voice is matter-of-fact, his tone unyielding. Mr. Krabs' eyes widen, his hope dashed. "But I'll do anything," he insists, his voice desperate. But Plankton's unforgiving gaze remains unmoved. "Anything?" he repeats, his tone mocking. "Can you give me back my mind?" His antennas wave in frustration. "Do leave, Krabs. Can leave." Mr. Krabs' expression falls, his claws hanging limp at his sides. "But Plankton," he begs. "We can work together, I can help you get better." But Plankton's face is a wall of coldness, his antennas waving with anger. "No better," he says firmly. "Only live now." His words are a reflection of the stark reality that Mr. Krabs had ignored. Mr. Krabs' eyes fill with tears, his claws clutching at his chest. "I hurt you so badly, Plankton. But I can't live with this," he sobs. "I know Krabs sorry now. Yet I last registered Krabs laughter as I fainted from the impact. Even if Krabs didn't mean to, Krabs did. So goodbye, Eugene Krabs." The room grew silent as the gravity of Plankton's words settled heavily upon Mr. Krabs. He hadn't considered that his foolishness could lead to such a profound change in his rival. Mr. Krabs looked at Plankton, his eyes brimming with desperation. "If I can go back and sacrifice my life to..." "Can't. Perhaps can find peace but for now, goodbye." The finality in Plankton's voice was a slap to Mr. Krabs' face, his hope crumbling like sand through his claws. He staggered back, his eyes wide with shock. Sponge Bob's heart ached, his hands clenched into fists at his sides as he watched the exchange unfold. He knew Mr. Krabs was suffering, but he couldn't ignore the pain in Plankton's voice either. Mr. Krabs' sobs grew louder, his body shaking with the weight of his guilt. "Please, Plankton," he begged. But Plankton's gaze remained on the chessboard, his hands tracing the pattern of the squares, his antennas were still, his body a statue of cold resolve. Mr. Krabs' sobs turned to sniffs as he took in Plankton's unyielding stance. He knew his rival well and he could see the deep-seated pain that lay beneath the surface of his words. With a heavy heart, he nodded. "I'll let ye space then. I never wanted to lose ye." Plankton turns away. Mr. Krabs' eyes grew large with sadness, his body quivering with the weight of his mistakes. "SpongeBob I'll give ye time off work as long as you need to when for Plankton. Goodbye, Plankton," he choked out. He left the chum bucket.

AUTISM IN THE PLANKTON FAMILY viii (Autistic author) Just as quiet settled, Krabs' booming voice filled the room. "Plankton, where are ye!" Plankton's eye flew open. Sponge Bob and Karen exchanged a worried look, knowing that Mr. Krabs' presence could easily overwhelm him, not to mention Krabs caused this. Krabs marched in, his beady eyes searching the room. "Ah, there ye be," he said, spotting the small figure on the couch. Plankton's antennae shot up, his body tensing. "K-Krabs," he stuttered, his voice shaking with fear and anxiety despite trying to appear strong. Mr. Krabs' eyes twinkling with mischief. "What's this, Plankton? Too tired to scheme today?" Plankton's antennae twitched nervously. "Just... resting," he managed to murmur. "Resting? In the middle of the day? Pish-posh!" He waved a dismissive claw in the air. "More like plotting! I know your tricks, Plankton!" Sponge Bob stepped in, his spongy body blocking Krabs' view. "Hey, Mr. Krabs," he said. "Plankton's had a rough day. He's just taking it easy." Krabs' claws click together. "Rough day, eh?" he sneered. "I'll give ye rough!" Plankton's antennae drooped as his heart raced. The familiar threat of his enemy was like a knot in his stomach, a reminder of the harsh world outside his sanctuary, and what happened last time. Sponge Bob's voice grew firm. "Mr. Krabs, can we maybe talk about this later?" Mr. Krabs' eyes widened slightly at the unusual assertion. "Later? What's the matter with now?" Sponge Bob's gaze never left Plankton's trembling form. "Plankton's off the clock.." "Off the clock?" he scoffed. "There's no 'off the clock'!" Sponge Bob stepped closer to his friend, his spongy body a barrier between the two adversaries. "Mr. Krabs," he said, his voice firm, "Can we reschedule the... uh... brainstorming session?" Mr. Krabs' expression grew skeptical. Karen stepped forward, her voice calm but firm. "Krabs, please. Plankton's been through a lot." Mr. Krabs' eyes flicked to Karen. "Pah! Plankton's always had boundaries, but that's never stopped before!" Plankton's antennae quivered desperately, tensing even further. "Please, Krabs," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "Can't." Mr. Krabs' eyes narrowed, his claws coming to rest on his hip. "What do you mean, 'can't'?" he demanded. Sponge Bob's voice was firm but kind. "Mr. Krabs, Plankton's been diagnosed with something. It's like a... a... special condition," he stumbled. Mr. Krabs' beady eyes narrowed, sneer remaining. "Special condition? I'll give ye a special condition!" The room grew tense, the energy palpable. Plankton's antennae twitched rapidly, his body shrinking under the weight of Mr. Krabs' aggression. The memories of the fight and the subsequent meltdown flashed through his mind, a painful reminder of his vulnerability. Mr. Krabs' shadow loomed over the couch, his eyes gleaming with malice. Plankton's breathing grew shallow, his heart racing. He felt like a tiny creature trapped under the gaze of a giant predator. "Please," he whimpered, his voice barely audible. Sponge Bob stepped in front of Plankton, his spongy body taut with tension. "Mr. Krabs," he said, his tone firm, "Plankton's not ok. You need to back off." Mr. Krabs' sneer faltered, his claws pausing mid-air. He took a step back, his eyes widening slightly as he took in Plankton's state. The small creature's eye was wide with fear, his body trembling beneath the thin blanket. Sponge Bob watched, his heart breaking for his friend. "Mr. Krabs," he said, his voice firm but not unkind. "What happened between you two really affected Plankton. He's been diagnosed with autism because of it." Mr. Krabs' expression shifted, his eyes going wide with shock. He took another step back, his claws dropping to his sides. "What? Autism?" he echoed, his voice filled with disbelief. Karen stepped closer. "Yes Krabs," she said, her voice calm and patient. "The doctor said it's a result of the head injury he sustained during your fight." Mr. Krabs' face paled, his claws dropping to his sides. "I... I," he stammered, bravado gone. The room was silent, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. Karen's unforgiving. Sponge Bob watched, his heart heavy with hope that his boss might understand. Mr. Krabs' eyes grew wide with horror as the realization sank in. The thought that he could have caused such harm to his longtime nemesis was to much to bear. He swallowed hard, his chest constricting with guilt. He looked at Plankton, really looked at him, for the first time seeing the fear and pain in his eye. Plankton was trembling, his antennae quivering with each shallow breath he took. Mr. Krabs took another step back, his chest heaving. "Autism?" he repeated. "Because of me?" The room was a silent witness to the crab's self-realization. The booming voice that had so often filled the Chum Bucket with threats and taunts was now just a faint echo of regret. Mr. Krabs stared at Plankton, his beady eyes shimmering with a mixture of horror and guilt. He had never seen the tiny plankton look so vulnerable, so broken. It was a stark contrast to the scheming genius he had always known. "I-I..." he stuttered, his claws trembling as he struggled to comprehend the gravity of his actions. Karen stepped forward, her voice firm but measured. "The doctor said it's because of the trauma to his brain you inflicted. It's all because of you! You did it." Mr. Krabs' eyes widened even further, and he took another step back. "But... but, I was just defending the Krabby Patty!" he protested weakly. Sponge Bob's gaze was steady on his boss. "It's more than that, Mr. Krabs. It's irreversible with no cure." Mr. Krabs' face fell, the implications of his actions finally sinking in. The magnitude of his recklessness was clear, and he couldn't help but feel a pang of remorse. "What can I do?" he asked, his voice small and desperate. Karen's gaze was steely. "You can start by giving him space. And maybe, just maybe, by being kind for once in your life." Mr. Krabs looked down at his claws, which had been poised for battle, now hanging limply at his sides. He nodded slowly, his eyes still on Plankton. "I'm sorry, Plankton," he said, his voice gruff. "I never meant to hurt ye like this." Plankton's antennae stilled. He wasn't sure what to make of Mr. Krabs' sudden apology. His eye searched the crab's face. "Mr. Krabs," he began, his voice still small but growing stronger. "I know Krabs didn't mean to... to make me like this." His antennae twitched slightly as he spoke. Mr. Krabs' expression grew soft, his eyes misting with tears. "But I can't take it back," he whispered, the weight of his guilt heavy on his shoulders. Suddenly, Plankton's tiny hand reached out, tentatively taking Mr. Krabs' large claw in his grip. The gesture was unexpected, his antennae quivering with the effort of reaching out despite his fear. It was a silent offering of peace, a bridge over the chasm of their rivalry. Mr. Krabs looked down at their joined hands with surprise. The warmth of Plankton's touch was a stark contrast to the coldness of his own heart, a reminder that despite their differences, they were all just creatures trying to navigate a complex world. The room held its breath as Mr. Krabs felt the tremble in Plankton's grip, a silent plea for understanding and compassion. It was a moment of unexpected connection, a reminder that even the most bitter of enemies could find common ground in pain and suffering. Mr. Krabs' eyes grew wet with tears, his hardened exterior cracking like a shell under the pressure of his guilt. "I'm sorry," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. Plankton's antennae twitched as he processed the crab's words. He knew Mr. Krabs was capable of empathy, but rarely did it show. This was a side of him he had never seen before, and it was as overwhelming as it was comforting. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. Mr. Krabs nodded, his eyes still on Plankton's hand in his claw. He took a deep breath, the weight of his apology heavy on his chest. "I'll leave you be," he said, his voice gruff with emotion. Plankton's antennae remained still, his grip on Mr. Krabs' clawed hand lingering in the air for a moment before he slowly withdrew it, his mind reeling from the exchange. Sponge Bob and Karen watched, their expressions a mix of shock and hope. Mr. Krabs nodded, his eyes never leaving Plankton's. He knew that words alone wouldn't erase the pain he had caused, but it was a start. He took a step back, his shoulders slumped with the weight of his newfound understanding. "I'll leave you to rest," he said, his voice gruff but sincere. Plankton's antennae quivered with relief, and he nodded slightly. Mr. Krabs turned to leave, his steps heavy as he moved toward the door. But before he could exit, Plankton's voice stopped him. "Mr. Krabs," he called out, his tone firm but not unkind. Mr. Krabs paused, his claw on the doorknob. He looked back over his shoulder, his expression a mix of hope and fear. Plankton's antennae quivered slightly as he gathered his thoughts. "I... I forgive you," he managed to say, his voice surprisingly steady. Mr. Krabs' eyes widened in shock, his claw frozen on the doorknob. He had never expected such words to come from his enemy's lips, especially not now, in the aftermath of such a life-altering revelation. He turned to face Plankton, his expression a tumult of emotions. "You... forgive me?" he whispered, his voice hoarse with disbelief. Plankton nodded, his antennae still. "If you can change," he said, his voice firm but not unyielding. "Be better." Mr. Krabs' gaze searched Plankton's face, his own expression a mirror of the plankton's. "I'll try," he said, his voice thick with emotion. Plankton's antennae drooped in a gesture of defeat. "Just try," he murmured. "That's all I ask."

ᴾᵃʳᵗ ᴼᶰᵉ ᵞᵒᵘʳ ᵂᵒʳˢᵗ ᴰᵃʸ ⁽ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᴮᵒᵇ ᶠᵃᶰᶠᶤᶜ⁾ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ'ˢ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃᶰᵈ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʷᵃˢ ᶤᶰ ʰᶤˢ ˡᵃᵇ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᶤᵗ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉᶰᵉᵈˑ ᴬ ᶜʳᵃˢʰᶤᶰᵍ ᵗʰᵘᵈ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗˡᵉᵈ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ˒ ˢᵒ ˢʰᵉ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉˑ ᴬᶰᵈ ˢʰᵉ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈˑ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗ ᶰᵒʳ ʰᵒʷ ˡᶤᶠᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒᶤᶰᵍ ᵗᵒ ᶜʰᵃᶰᵍᵉ ʷʰᵉᶰᶜᵉ ʰᵉ ᵖᶤᶜᵏᵉᵈ ᵘᵖ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒᶰᵉ ᵃˢ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ᶜᵃˡˡᵉᵈ ʰᶤᵐˑ ᴴᶤˢ ʲᵃʷ ᵈʳᵒᵖᵖᵉᵈ ᶤᶰ ᵘᵗᵗᵉʳ ˢʰᵒᶜᵏ ʰᵉᵃʳᶤᶰᵍ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᶤᵐ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖʰᵒᶰᵉˑ ᴴᵉ ᵈᶤᵈᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵃᶜᵗ ᵃᵗ ᶠᶤʳˢᵗˑˑ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ˢᵘʳᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᵛᶤᵗᵃˡˢ ᵐᵒᶰᶤᵗᵒʳᵉᵈ ᶰᵒʷ˒ ˢᵉᵉᶤᶰᵍ ʰᶤᵐ ᶤᶰ ᵃ ˢᵘᵖᶤᶰᵉ ᵖᵒˢᶤᵗᶤᵒᶰˑ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃᵈᵈʳᵉˢˢᵉᵈ ʰᶤˢ ᵉᵐᵖˡᵒʸᵉᵉˢˑ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵃᶰ ᵘᶰᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈ ᵃᶰᶰᵒᵘᶰᶜᵉᵐᵉᶰᵗ ᵇᵒʸˢˑˑ" "ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ˒ ᵘᶰˡᵉˢˢ ᶤᵗ'ˢ ᵍᵉᵗᵗᶤᶰᵍ ᵃ ᵛᵃᶜᵃᵗᶤᵒᶰˑˑˑ" "ᴹʳˑ ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ˒ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵃᶠʳᵃᶤᵈ ᶰᵒᵗˑ ᴮᵘᵗ ᴵ ʷᵃᶰᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵗᵒ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᶜᵃˡˡ ᶠʳᵒᵐ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗ˒ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᶰᵒʷˑˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᶤᶠˡᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵘʳᵍᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜʳʸ ᵒᵘᵗ ᶰᵒʷˑ "ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʰᵒʷ ᵉˡˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ˢᵃʸ ᶤᵗ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵘᵗᵉʳ ʷᶤᶠᵉ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ᵐᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵗᵉˡˡ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵒᵗʰˑ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒᵒᵏ ᵃ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢᶤᵍʰᵉᵈˑ "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵉᶰ ᶤᶰ ᵃᶰ ᵃᶜᶜᶤᵈᵉᶰᵗ ᵍᵒᶰᵉ ʷʳᵒᶰᵍˑ ᴬᶜᶜᵒʳᵈᶤᶰᵍ ᵗᵒ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ʰᵉ ᵃᵖᵖᵃʳᵉᶰᵗˡʸ ᶰᵉᵃʳˡʸ ʰᶤᵗ ʰᶤˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᵖᵉᶰˑ ᴵᵗ'ˢ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵒᶰˡʸ ˡᵒᵒᵏᶤᶰᵍ ᵇᵃᵈ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢʰᵉ'ˢ ᵘᶰˢᵘʳᵉ ᶤᶠ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ᶤᵗ ᵗʰʳᵒᵘᵍʰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶰᶤᵍʰᵗˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵍᵃˢᵖᵉᵈˑ "ᴵᶰ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ʷᵒʳᵈˢ˒ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ᶤᶠ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒᶰᶰᵃ ˢᵘʳᵛᶤᵛᵉ˒ ʰᵉ ᵐᶤᵍʰᵗ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ˢᵗᵃᵗᵉˑ ᴵᶠ ʰᵉ ᵐᶤʳᵃᶜᵘˡᵒᵘˢˡʸ ᵈᵒᵉˢ˒ ʰᶤˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳʸ'ˢ ᶰᵒᵗ ᵍᵒᶰᶰᵃ ᵇᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ᶤᶠ ᶤᵗ ᵉᵛᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵉˢ ᵇᵃᶜᵏˑ ˢᵒ ʷᵉ'ˡˡ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉ ᵘᵖ ˢʰᵒᵖ ᶤᶰᵈᵉᶠᶤᶰᶤᵗᵉˡʸ˒ ᵒʳ ᵃᵗ ˡᵉᵃˢᵗ ᶤᶠ ʷᵉ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʷʰᵉᵗʰᵉʳ ᵒʳ ᶰᵒᵗ ʰᵉ'ᵈ ʷᵃᵏᵉˑ ᑦᵃᶰ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗˑ" ᴸᵉᵃᵛᶤᶰᵍ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ˒ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ᶤᶰ ᵗᵒ ˢᵉᵉ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ˡᵒᵒᵏᶤᶰᵍ ᵒᵛᵉʳ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃᶰᵈ ᵃˢ ˢᵃᶰᵈʸ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵃ ʰᵃᶰᵈ ᵒᶰ ʰᵉʳ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈᵉʳˑ "ᴴᵉʸ˒ ˢᵃᶰᵈʸˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵉᵐᵇʳᵃᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳˑ "ᴸᵃʳʳʸ ᵗʰᵉ ˡᵒᵇˢᵗᵉʳ ˢᵉᶰᵗ ᶠˡᵒʷᵉʳˢˑ" "ᴴᵒʷ ᶰᶤᶜᵉˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵇᵃʳᵉˡʸ ʰᵉᵃʳˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗᵃˡᵏᶤᶰᵍ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵖᵒᶰᵈᵉʳˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃʷᵏʷᵃʳᵈ ᶠᵉᵉˡᶤᶰᵍ ᵒᶠ ᶠᵉᵃʳ˒ ˢᵉᵉᶤᶰᵍ ʰᶤˢ ᵉᶰᵉᵐʸ ᶰᵒʷˑ ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ˢᵃʷ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍʳᵃᵛᶤᵗʸ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᶤᵗᵘᵃᵗᶤᵒᶰ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ʲᵘˢᵗ ˢᵗᵒᵒᵈ ᵠᵘᶤᵉᵗˡʸˑ "ᴴᵉ'ˢ ᶰᵒᵗ ʳᵉᵍᵃᶤᶰᶤᶰᵍ ᶜᵒᶰˢᶜᶤᵒᵘˢᶰᵉˢˢˑ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᵐʸ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃᶰᵈ'ˢ ᵇᵉᵉᶰ ᵘᶰᶜᵒᶰˢᶜᶤᵒᵘˢ ˢᶤᶰᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᶤᶰᶜᶤᵈᵉᶰᵗ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ˢᵗᶤˡˡˑˑˑ" "ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ᶤᵗ'ˢ ᶰᵒᵗ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᶠᵃᵘˡᵗ˒ ʸᵒᵘ ᵏᶰᵒʷˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʷ ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᶰᵉᵃʳ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ "ᴵᶠ ʸᵒᵘ'ᵈ ʰᵉᵃʳ˒ ʸᵒᵘ'ˡˡ ˡᶤᵏᵉ ʰᵉᵃʳᶤᶰᵍ ʰᵒʷ ʷᵉ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵏʳᵘˢᵗʸ ᵏʳᵃᵇ ᶠᵒʳ ᶰᵒʷᵎ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ˢᵃʸˢ˒ ˡᵉᵗᵗᶤᶰᵍ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵉᵉ ʰᶤᵐˑ ᴺᵒʷ ᵘᵖ ᶜˡᵒˢᵉʳ˒ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶰᵒᵗᶤᶜᵉᵈ ʰᵒʷ ˡᶤᶠᵉˡᵉˢˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢˑ "ᵞᵒᵘ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᴵ ʷᶤˡˡ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵐᶤˢˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵃᵗᵗᵉᵐᵖᵗˢ ᵗᵒ ʳᵘᶤᶰ ᵐᵉ ᵇᵘˢᶤᶰᵉˢˢ; ᶠᵘᶰᶰʸ ᴵ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ˢᵘʳᵛᶤᵛᵉ ˡᵒᶰᵍᵉʳ ˢʰᵉˡᵈᵒᶰˑˑˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃᶤᵈˑ ᴴᵉ ᵗᵘʳᶰᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰˑ "ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉᶰ ᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶰᵃᵛʸ˒ ˢᵉᵉᶤᶰᵍ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵐᵉ ᶠᵃᶤʳ ˢʰᵃʳᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵇᵘᵈᵈᶤᵉˢ ᶤᶰʲᵘʳᵉᵈ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵈʸᶤᶰᵍˑ ᴱᵛᵉᶰ ˢᵒ ᴵ˒ ᴵ'ᵛᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ˢᵉᵉᶰ ᵃᶰʸ ᵒᶠ ᵐᵉ ᶜᵒᵐᵃᵗᵒˢᵉ ᶰᵃᵛʸ ᵇᵘᵈᵈᶤᵉˢ ʰᵘʳᵗ ᵃˢ ᵇᵃᵈ ᵃˢ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑˑˑ" "ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᴵ'ᵐ ᵍᵒᶰᶰᵃ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʰᵉᵃᵈ ᵒᶰ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᶰᵒʷ ˢᵒˑˑ" ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᶤᶰᵗᵉʳʳᵘᵖᵗᵉᵈˑ ᴴᵉ ᶰᵒᵈᵈᵉᵈˑ "ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵐᵉᵃᶰ ᵗᵒ ᵇʳᶤᶰᵍ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵒʷᶰ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ʷᵃᶰᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵗᵒ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʰᵒʷ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ᴵ ᵃᵐ ᵇᵉˡᶤᵉᵛᵉ ᶤᵗ ᵒʳ ᶰᵒᵗˑˑ" "ᴱᵘᵍᵉᶰᵉ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʷʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵐᵉᵃᶰ˒ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗʰᵃᶰᵏ ʸᵒᵘˑ ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʸᵒᵘ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᵉᶰ ᵃᵗ ᶤᵗ ᶠᵒʳ ᵃᵍᵉˢˑˑ" ˢᵖᵒᶰᵍᵉᵇᵒᵇ ᵃᶰᵈ ˢᵃᶰᵈʸ ˡᵉᶠᵗ˒ ˡᵉᵃᵛᶤᶰᵍ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ʷᶤᵗʰ ᵃᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜʰᵘᵐ ᵇᵘᶜᵏᵉᵗˑ "ᴵ'ᵈ ᶜᵒᵛᵉʳ ᵇˡᵃᶰᵏᵉᵗ˒ ᵃˢ ᶤᵗ ᶜᵃᶰ ᵍᵉᵗ ᶜᵒˡᵈ ᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶰᶤᵍʰᵗˑˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳˑ ᵀʰᵉʸ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵒᶰ ᵘᵖ ᵗᵒ ʰᶤˢ ˢʰᵒᵘˡᵈᵉʳˢˑ "ᴴᵒʷ ᵇᵃᵈ'ˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉˀ" "ᴵᶠ ʰᵉ ˡᶤᵛᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉᶰ ʰᵉ ᵐᶤᵍʰᵗ ᶰᵒᵗ ʳᵉᵗᵃᶤᶰ ᵃᶰʸ ᵒᶠ ʰᶤˢ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳᶤᵉˢ˒ ᵃᵗ ᵇᵉˢᵗˑˑ" "ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ʷʰᵃᵗ'ˢ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᶤᶰᵍ ᵗᵒ ᵍᵉᵗ ʰᶤᵐˢᵉˡᶠˑˑˑ" "ᴵ ᵈᵉˢᵗʳᵒʸᵉᵈ ᶤᵗ ᵇᵘᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵐᵃᶜʰᶤᶰᵉ ᵐᵉᵃᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵇᶤˢᵉᶜᵗ ˢᵃᶠᵉᵗʸ ᵛᵃᵘˡᵗ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉ ᶤᵗ ᵒᵖᵉᶰ ᵛᶤᵒˡᵉᶰᵗˡʸˑ ᴵᵗ ʷᵉᶰᵗ ʷʳᵒᶰᵍ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᵍᵒᵗ ᶤᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ʷᵃʸˑˑˑ" ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ'ˢ ᶠᵒʳᶜᵉᵈ ᶜʰᵘᶜᵏˡᵉˢ ᵗᵘʳᶰᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢᵒᵇˢ˒ ᶰᵒʷ ᵇᵃʷˡᶤᶰᵍˑ "ᴵ ᶜᵃᶰ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒᵐᵒʳʳᵒʷ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰˑ" ᵀʰᵉ ᶰᵉˣᵗ ᵐᵒʳᶰᶤᶰᵍ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᵃʷᵒᵏᵉ˒ ʷᶤᵖᶤᶰᵍ ᵃʷᵃʸ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵈʳᵒᵒˡˑ "ᴵ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʰᵒʷ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᶰᵒʷˑˑ" ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ˡᵉᵗ ʰᶤᵐ ᶤᶰˑ "ˢᵗᶤˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ˢᵃᵐᵉ ᵃˢ ˡᵃˢᵗ ᶰᶤᵍʰᵗ ʷʰᵉᶰ ʸᵒᵘ ˡᵉᶠᵗˑ" "ᴵ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵐᶤˢˢ ʰᶤᵐ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰˑ" "ˢᵃᵐᵉ ᵗᵒˑ ᵞᵒᵘ ᶜᵃᶰ ˢᵉᵉ ʰᶤᵐ ᶤᶠ ʸᵒᵘ ʷᵃᶰᵗˑˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ᶠᵒˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ʰᵉʳ ᵗᵒ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰˑ ᶠᵒʳ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠᶤʳˢᵗ ᵗᶤᵐᵉ ˢᶤᶰᶜᵉ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃᶜᶜᶤᵈᵉᶰᵗ˒ ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵗᵃʳᵗᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ˢʰᵉᵈ ᵗᵉᵃʳˢˑ ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ᶜᵃᵐᵉ ᶤᶰˑ "ᴵ ᵐᵃᵈᵉ ᵃ ᶜᵃʳᵈ ᶠᵒʳ ʰᶤᵐ ᵃˡˡ ᵐʸˢᵉˡᶠˑˑ" "ᴹʳˑ ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ʰᵒʷ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗᵎ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˢᵃʸˢ ˢᵉᵉᶤᶰᵍ ᵃ ᵈʳᵃʷᶤᶰᵍ ᵒᶰ ᵗʰᵉ ᶠʳᵒᶰᵗ ᵒᶠ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ᵃˢ ᵃ ᶜʰᵉᶠˑ 'ᴹᶤˢˢ ʸᵒᵘ' ˢᵃʸˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜᵃʳᵈˑ ᵀʰᵉᶰ ˢᵠᵘᶤᵈʷᵃʳᵈ ˡᵉᶠᵗˑ "ᴴᵉ ˢᵉᵉᵐˢ ᵗᵒ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵈᵉᵛᵉˡᵒᵖᵉᵈ ᵐᵒʳᵉ ᵛᶤˢᶤᵇˡᵉ ᵇʳᵘᶤˢᶤᶰᵍ ᵒᶰ ʰᶤˢ ʰᵉᵃᵈ; ᶤᶠ ʰᵉ ᵐᵃᶰᵃᵍᵉˢ ᵗᵒ ʰᵉᵃˡ ᶤᵗ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ˢᵉᶰˢᶤᵗᶤᵛᵉˑ ˢᵒ ᵃˢˢᵘᵐᶤᶰᵍ ʰᵉ ʷᶤˡˡ ˡᶤᵛᵉ˒ ᵖᵉʳʰᵃᵖˢ ᵃᵛᵒᶤᵈ ᶜʳᵘˢʰᶤᶰᵍ ʰᶤᵐˑˑ" "ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰˑ ᴵ ᵈᵒᵘᵇᵗ ʰᵉ'ˢ ᵍᵒᶰᶰᵃ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵇᵉ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᶰᵒʳᵐᵃˡ˒ ˢᵗᵘᵇᵇᵒʳᶰ ᵃˢ ʰᵉ ᶤˢ ᵇᵘᵗ ʷᵉ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᵠᵘᶤᵗᵉ ᵖᵉʳˢᶤˢᵗᵉᶰᵗˑ ᵞᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵈᵒᶤᶰᵍ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵇᵉˢᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ʰᶤᵐ ᵃˢ ᶜᵒᵐᶠᵒʳᵗᵃᵇˡʸ ᵃˡᶤᵛᵉ ᵃˢ ᵖᵒˢˢᶤᵇˡᵉˑ" "ᵀʰᵃᶰᵏˢ ᴱᵘᵍᵉᶰᵉˑ ᴵ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵗʰᵒᵘᵍʰᵗ ᴵ'ᵈ ᵃᶜᵗᵘᵃˡˡʸ ᵐᶤˢˢ ʰᵉᵃʳᶤᶰᵍ ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ'ˢ ᶰᵃᵍᵍᶤᶰᵍᵎ" "ˢᵒ ᵐᵒˢᵗ ˡᶤᵏᵉˡʸ ʰᵉ'ˡˡ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ᵃᵐᶰᵉˢᶤᵃ ʳᶤᵍʰᵗˑˑˑ" "ᴾˡᵃᶰᵏᵗᵒᶰ ʷᶤˡˡ ᵏᶰᵒʷ˒ ᶤᶠ ʰᵉ ʷᵃᵏᵉˢ ᵃᵍᵃᶤᶰ˒ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵗʰ ᵃᶰᵈ ʰᵒʷ ᵗᵒ ᵉᵃᵗ; ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʰᵒʷ ᵐᵘᶜʰ ᵒᶠ ʰᶤˢ ˡᶤᶠᵉ ʰᵉ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᶜᵃˡˡˑ ᴴᵉ ᶰᵉᵛᵉʳ ʳᵉᵐᵉᵐᵇᵉʳˢ ᵒᵘʳ ʷᵉᵈᵈᶤᶰᵍ ᵃᶰᶰᶤᵛᵉʳˢᵃʳʸ ᵉᵛᵉᶰ ᶤᶰ ᵖᵉʳᶠᵉᶜᵗ ʰᵉᵃˡᵗʰˑˑ" "ᴵ ᵏᶰᵒʷ ʰᵉ'ˢ ˢᵗᶤˡˡ ʰᶤᵐˢᵉˡᶠ ᵈᵉᵉᵖ ᶤᶰ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ʰᵒᵖᵉ ᵉ ᶜᵃᶰ ᶠᶤᶰᵈ ᶤᵗ˒ ᶠᶤᶰᵈ ʰᶤᵐᵎ ᶠᶤᶰᵈ ʰᶤᵐ ˢᵒ ʰᵉ ᶜᵃᶰ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵇᵃᶜᵏ ᵗᵒ ᶰᵒʳᵐᵃˡˑˑ" "ᴵ ᵈᵒᶰ'ᵗ ᵗʰᶤᶰᵏ ᶤᵗ'ˡˡ ᵇᵉ ᵃ ˢᵖᵉᵉᵈʸ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳʸ˒ ᶤᶠ ʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ʳᵉᶜᵒᵛᵉʳ; ˢᵗᶤˡˡ ᴵ ᶜᵃᶰ ᵏᵉᵉᵖ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃˡˡ ᵘᵖᵈᵃᵗᵉᵈ ᵃᶰᵈ ᵗᵉˡˡ ᶤᶠ ʷʰᵉᶰ ᵃ ᶜʰᵃᶰᵍᵉ ʰᵃᵖᵖᵉᶰˢ˒ ᵍᵒᵒᵈ ᵒʳ ᵇᵃᵈˑˑ" ᴹʳˑ ᴷʳᵃᵇˢ ˡᵉᶠᵗ ᵗʰᵉᵐˑ "ᵞᵒᵘʳ ᵇʳᵃᶤᶰ'ˢ ᵗᵒ ᵈᵃᵐᵃᵍᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷᵒʳᵏ ʳᶤᵍʰᵗ ᶰᵒʷ˒ ᵇᵘᵗ ᴵ ᵖʳᵒᵐᶤˢᵉ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵇʸ ʸᵒᵘʳ ˢᶤᵈᵉˑˑ" ᴷᵃʳᵉᶰ ᵗᵒˡᵈ ʰᵉʳ ʰᵘˢᵇᵃᶰᵈ˒ ʰᶤˢ ᵇᵒᵈʸ ᵈᵉᵃᵗʰˡʸ ˢᵗᶤˡˡˑ "ᴵ ʷᵃᶰᵗ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵃᵏᵉ ʸᵒᵘ ᶠᵉᵉˡ ᵇᵉᵗᵗᵉʳˑ ᴵ ᵐᶤˢˢ ʸᵒᵘʳ ᵛᵒᶤᶜᵉ˒ ᵃˢ ᵃᶰᶰᵒʸᶤᶰᵍ ᶤᵗ ᶜᵃᶰ ᵇᵉ ᵃᵗ ᵗᶤᵐᵉˢ ᵇᵘᵗ˒ ᴵ ʲᵘˢᵗ ᵐᶤˢˢ ʸᵒᵘ ˢʰᵉˡᵈᵒᶰˑ ᵂᵉ ᵃˡˡ ᵐᶤˢˢ ʸᵒᵘˑ ᵞᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈᵎ ᵞᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ˢᵒ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈˑ ᴵ ᵗʰᶤᶰᵏ ʸᵒᵘ'ʳᵉ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗˑ ˢᵒ ᵍʳᵉᵃᵗˑ" ᶜᵒᶰᵗˑ ᵖᵃʳᵗ ᵗʷᵒ

"Come on, Shel, you're not going to let a little dirt scare you, are you?" Eugene Krabs taunted, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he looked back at his best friend. The two of them were racing down the dirt path that snaked through the park, the setting sun casting long shadows over the dry, cracked earth. Sheldon Plankton, a year younger and a head shorter, determinedly picked up the pace. He didn't want Eugene to think he was a wimp. Suddenly, Sheldon's foot caught on a jutting rock, and he tumbled forward. He felt the sting of gravel biting into his palms and heard the sickening scrape of his knee against the unforgiving ground. Eugene stopped in his tracks, his laughter dying as he saw his friend sprawled out, tears of pain already welling up in his eye. "Oh man, are you okay?" Eugene rushed over, his concern genuine. Sheldon rolled over, clutching his knee, his breath coming in quick, ragged gasps. A patch of red was spreading. The two boys inspected the injury together, and Eugene's grin faded as he took in the raw flesh and the blood that was already starting to crust over. "We gotta get you home. That looks like it really hurts." With Eugene's help, Sheldon managed to stand up, his knee throbbing with every step. They began to walk back to Eugene's house, the laughter and excitement of their race replaced by a solemn silence. As they approached the white picket fence that surrounded Eugene's garden, Sheldon could see Eugene's mother through the kitchen window. She was busy preparing dinner, her silhouette flickering against the orange glow of the setting sun. Eugene's mother, Ms. Krabs, noticed them approaching and quickly came out to see what had happened. "Oh dear Neptune" she exclaimed, rushing over with a cloth and some antiseptic. Shel's knee was now a mess of dirt and blood, but Ms. Krabs calmly cleaned the wound, dabbing at it gently with the cloth. "You're going to be fine, just a scrape. It'll sting a little, but it'll heal up good as new." Her voice was a balm to Sheldon's fear, and he watched as she applied the antiseptic with careful precision. The burn was sharp, but the pain was already easing, and Sheldon took a deep breath, trying to be brave. "Thank you, Ms. Krabs," Sheldon mumbled, his voice thick with unshed tears. Ms. Krabs gave him a comforting smile. "You just sit down on the couch and let me get a band-aid. You're going to be as good as new in no time," she said soothingly. Sheldon limped into the living room, feeling the warm embrace of Eugene's family home surround him, but he barely registered it. His mind was too focused on the throbbing in his knee and the sting of the antiseptic. Eugene, ever the problem-solver, went to his room and grabbed a handful of comic books from his shelf. "Here, these should keep your mind off it," he said, handing them to Shel as his mother returned with a colorful band-aid. Ms. Krabs carefully covered the wound with the bandage, her deft hands making it look almost like artwork. She patted it gently and said, "There, now you're all set." Eugene plopped down on the couch beside Sheldon, eyes glancing over the comic books. "Which one do you want to read first?" he asked, eager to distract his friend from the pain. Sheldon managed a small smile, his cheeks still flushed with embarrassment. He picked up the topmost comic, feeling the comfort of familiar superheroes and their fantastical adventures. The warmth of the room and the gentle hum of Ms. Krabs preparing dinner in the background soon began to soothe their nerves. Sheldon's eyelid grew heavy, and he found himself drifting into a light doze, the images of the comic book characters dancing in his mind. When Ms. Krabs called them for dinner, she found Sheldon fast asleep on the couch, his head lolling to one side, the bandaged knee sticking out awkwardly. Eugene looked up, apologetic. "I'll wake him up," he offered, but she shook her head. "Let him rest," she whispered, her voice a comforting lullaby in the evening air. She covered Sheldon with a soft blanket from the armchair, tucking it gently around his small frame. His breathing was even, and a faint snore escaped his lips as his body succumbed to the exhaustion of the day. Eugene led her into the kitchen, his steps careful not to wake his friend. The scent of roast chicken filled the air, making his stomach grumble. "I'm sorry about his knee, Mommy," he said, his eyes cast down to the floor. Ms. Krabs waved away his apology, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "It's just a scrape. You two were bound to get into some sort of trouble. It's what boys do." She placed a warm hand on his shoulder, her eyes full of understanding. "Why don't you call his parents and let them know he'll be staying for dinner?" Eugene nodded, relieved, and went to the phone. As he dialed, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt. He had been so caught up in the moment of their race, the thrill of competition, that he had forgotten about his friend's limitations. Ms. Plankton picked up, and he explained the situation, his voice a mix of apology and assurance. "Don't worry, Ms. Plankton," Ms. Krabs' voice interrupted from over his shoulder, taking the phone from him. "He's in good hands. We'll have him cleaned up and fed, and I'll make sure he's ready for bed when it's time. You can pick him up in the morning if you like." Eugene watched as his mother spoke soothingly into the receiver, and he felt his guilt ease slightly as they hung up. "Thanks, Mother," he says, his voice grateful. He looks at his friend, who's now snoring gently on the couch, and feels his chest tighten with a mix of pity and determination. He'll make it up to him, somehow.