[A crackling burst of static is heard as the recording begins.

Tulip sighs.]

Hi, dear rear readers. Tulip Glasslip here.

Before I go on with the rest of this, I'd like to say one thing.

[Tulip inhales deeply. The device she's recording on creaks against her forceful grip.]

Fuck Shadi Dawn.

[A man's chuckle is heard from not too far away.]

"That all you got to say on the matter?"

…I thought I told you not to interrupt me while I'm recording, Lynne.

"You blokes back home should've seen how she's been for the past week. Been pacing all over the place and cursing up a storm that girl who saved her."

Lynne…

"Oi, what did you say before? 'If there's at least one thing I pride myself in, that's being honest with my audience'".

[Tulip grunts.]

Nice to see you've actually been rereading my older entries. But if you please wouldn't mind…

"Right, right. I'll go to my room; you finish talking to yourself and then we can think about dinner. Later, everyone."

[Steps are heard, followed by a slam and the click of a door as Lynne leaves the room.

Tulip takes a deep breath.]

Mew above give me patience, because if you give me strength I'll wring his neck like a towel.

It certainly doesn't help that I've been staying at his place these past few weeks. Can't quite tell him to fuck off when he's the one putting a roof above my head, as tempting as it would be. Besides, at least he's a good cook. Got that going for him, if nothing else.

[She clears her throat.]

Anyway, back to the matter at hand. I'm sure many of you must be wondering why the prelude to today's Fragment is voiced instead of written. The answer to that lies in today's interview, so without further ado, let's get to it.

Enjoy:

----------------------------------------

[I've only been sitting across from Shadi Dawn for a minute and I can already tell I should take whatever she says during this interview with a grain of salt.

She rests her cheek on her left palm and looks at me with… amusement, almost. Like a kid dying to open a present. The shape of her smile and the glint in her eyes are twisted in all the wrong ways, shadows falling upon her body in ways that shouldn't be possible considering the room's lighting.

This woman is dangerous; I can tell that much. Were it not for the fact that she willingly offered to let herself be interviewed, I might've thought she was one of them . Her presence is as cold and oppressive as that of the two Stigmas I've met so far.

I give her a look to signal that we should start, and she lets out a dreamy sigh.]

Ah, to think I'd get to star in the famous Wysteria Files… I'm a huge fan of your work, miss Tulip. And I must say, you're even more striking in person than I could've possibly imagined.

"I'd… rather we keep this in the realm of our interview, and nothing else."

But of course. I can see you're already writing up a storm, capturing my every word on paper almost before they leave my mouth. I'd had my doubts, but…

Ah, but that's a matter for later. We're here for my account of things, my… experiences with the Institute and its Stigmas, you could say.

[My reaction must be noticeable, judging by the self-satisfied look that crosses her face.]

"You're clearly not an ex-citizen of Wysteria, nor a Kantan citizen for that matter. How did someone from Sinnoh end up tangled in their web?"

I don't know if I'd have used that particular term, but I'll let it pass for now.

The answer is simple; I sought them out.

"…Of course you did. Why?"

What kind of question is that? Because I was taken by them as much as I'm now taken by you, Tulip. Though… maybe we should dial it back a bit, start from the beginning. I assume you're… familiar with my sordid background?

"I-yes. I looked you up as soon as you offered to let yourself be interviewed. You were a somewhat famous trainer back in Sinnoh, right?"

Ouch. Somewhat?

"And then, three years ago, you mysteriously vanished from the face of the planet. You've been presumed dead ever since."

A bold assumption to make, although an understandable one.

The reason for my absence and my desire to stay anonymous are a tale for another time, but in itself it is a good place to start.

I was, like you say, a well-known trainer in the Sinnohan League challenge back then, as I'd always planned. As soon as I turned eighteen I knocked on Professor Rowan's door and presented my impeccable diploma from Twinleaf's trainer school. Five minutes later, I left Sandgem town with a Charmander, a Pokedex and a belt full of Pokeballs.

Three months after that, I'd made it to the top of the annual Ace trainer rankings, six of eight Gym badges in my possession and a number of impressive achievements under my belt, not the least of which being the full dismantling of one of Jubilife's most prolific criminal organizations, which specialized in espionage and assassination. My reputation got quite the boost from that alone, though I'd taken from them something a lot more useful than that.

"That's… an impressive feat for an eighteen year-old girl. It sounds like you were a prodigy of sorts, though I'm guessing there's a point in this story when everything starts going wrong?"

Almost, but not quite. You see, what I failed to realize until it was too late was that everything was already wrong since the moment I'd started my journey. I was brilliant, yes, but maybe too naïve for my own good.

I cultivated myself and my image slowly, carefully, all the while doing everything in my power to show just how above every other trainer my age I was. Putting each piece in its place. Laying out the gameboard so that once I made my first and final move, all the dominoes would fall into place, and my enemy would lay defeated. Or… so I thought.

Just for the record, I didn't miscalculate. I took everything into account. Studied the Champion's team so extensively that even now I could recite every one of their strengths and weaknesses in my sleep. I crafted my own team appropriately. Through training, I pushed their physical and mental capabilities past their very limits, though never taking it so far that their affection for me would dwindle. By the time I finally set foot upon the Champion's chambers, I was as assured of my victory as I was that the sun would rise the next day.

…And yet.

[It's only there for a moment. Shadi's composed expression shakes ever so slightly, revealing underneath a frustration and bitterness sharp as steel. To some, it might look intimidating. However, as this is the first time she's looked like an actual human being, it has the opposite effect on me.

It's clear that her poker face isn't as good as she thinks.]

You sure are writing a lot, considering I'm not saying anything.

"If you want me to stop, you could always continue the story and finally get to the fucking point."

Fair enough.

I don't need to tell you that I lost, seeing as Cynthia is still the Champion. Like I said… I didn't underestimate her. My strategy was flawless, its execution nothing short of perfect, but even then, even with the strongest, most flexible team Sinnoh had ever seen…

I still remember the moment it happened. A final clash, both my Charizard and her Garchomp standing across from each other, time freezing as the impact of the other's attack reverberated throughout their bodies. Both their knees shook. At first it looked like Garchomp would fall first, but she caught herself at the last moment.

A second later, my Charizard fell. She did not get up again.

Never in my life have I been as furious as the moment Cynthia walked toward me with that smug, disgusting grin on her face and stretched her hand toward me. She looked… so happy. So satisfied. She had the fucking nerve to tell me that was one of the best battles anyone had ever given her.

Looking back on it, I realize I was being childish when I slapped her hand away and walked out of there. A sore loser. I just… couldn't understand, I suppose. But that's because I was still naïve; still thinking within a framework I should've shaken myself free of a long time ago.

I never had any chance of winning, you see. I sincerely doubt anyone does, save from perhaps a few legendary trainers whose Spirits burn as brightly as hers.

There is something… more, about Cynthia, you could say. Something that I can't see being overcome with diligence and determination.

[That term piques my interest. I can't help remembering Alberich's words from Marie's story back then.

'In the hallowed land that city is built upon, the gifts of people and Pokemon are simply more' .]

"Are you saying that Cynthia is one of them? A Stigma?"

What? No, of course not.

I mean… She might know about them, I certainly wouldn't put it past her. But I really can't see her joining such a group.

No, no, Cynthia's… uniqueness is something she was born with, I think.

"Born with? How?"

I'm not one hundred percent sure myself, but it might have something to do with the town she was born in, as well as… well, some might say fate, I suppose. Much like Wysteria, Celestic town is a place of great importance, a spot where a certain invisible Something coalesces, you could say.

"You know that being vague isn't going to help either of us, right?"

I swear that, at least this time, that's not my intention.

I'm serious when I say I only have a vague idea of all of this. Whatever Cynthia was born with, or just… whatever is woven into her, it's not exactly power or energy or anything I could describe. She certainly can't conjure up flames like the Fourth Stigma, completely camouflage himself like the Sixth or even see the threads of fate like the Seventh. And she obviously doesn't have powers like those of the legendary heroes of Sinnohan lore.

It's nothing that you could see, nothing that would technically raise her above the level of a normal human, but if you were next to her you'd know exactly what I mean. It's… a presence. A sort of pressure she exudes. Some might say it's simply the strength of her Spirit, that she inherited what the legendary Nyss once possessed. It's a good explanation as any; I personally don't have a better one. It is simply what she is, and that's as concise as I can be about it.

"Is that something you discovered after your loss against her?"

[Shadi's expression flinches for a moment, but then she smiles and lets out a sigh.]

Like I said, I never had a chance. All my life I'd been told that I was a prodigy, that I could achieve anything with diligent application of my intelligence, and while it is true that I am more capable than most, being raised that way gave me the wrong impression that the playing field was leveled for all of us. But of course, that couldn't have been more far from the truth. Had that been the case, I would now be the Champion of Sinnoh.

My desire to seek out answers and investigate Cynthia and all she was hiding was sprouted on by anger, I admit it, but it was as good a reason as any to finally force myself to open my eyes.

"No offense, but…"

[I stop, then frown.]

"No actually, I don't care if I offend you. All I'm hearing is that you're such a narcissist and a sore loser that, through a leap of logic so massive it could get you over the summit of Mt. Coronet, you found a way to paint yourself as a societal victim even though you're a prodigy from a rich family who probably had more opportunities than you knew what to do with."

…Well shit, Tulip. Did I catch you in a wrong mood or is this how you always are? Because I'm fine with either option.

"Let's just say you're the kind of person that tends to constantly press all of my buttons."

[Shadi opens her mouth, a sly look on her face, but I hurry to cut her off.]

"No. Shut up."

Phooey.

But whatever. You're more than free to think whatever you want of me, Tulip, as it affects me none. I and I alone know my own truth.

"Sure, whatever you say. Let's get back on topic, alright?"

If that's what you want.

As I was saying, I won't deny that at first my investigation was fueled by misplaced bitterness, but to my surprise and relief, I did actually find something. A clue of sorts, regarding Cynthia's…intentions, you might say. And I never would've found it if it weren't for the woman herself.

Cynthia is, above all, desperate to find someone who can give her a proper challenge. That's why she constantly roams the region during the time of the League challenge, carefully observing those trainers whom she deems to have the potential to someday best her and subtly interfering in their journey. Whether she gives them help or something to struggle against depends on what she thinks they lack. And so she goes, slowly, carefully grooming her would-be successors until they become… perfect.

"You'd think the leader of a region would have better things to do with her time."

She's a very capable multitasker, though you're not wrong.

"I'm assuming you were one of those trainers she groomed?"

And possibly the only one to realize that's what she was doing. Though, until very recently, I was wrong about her motives. I just assumed her competitive nature and immense skill had led her to become starved for a good challenge, something incredibly few could provide for her. And while that might be partly the reason, it wasn't the whole story.

My implication from before bears repeating. Cynthia is looking for a successor, not just a proper challenge.

[A heavy silence hangs in the air after Shadi finishes speaking. She looks more serious than she's done before during this interview.

I break said silence only after realizing she must be waiting for some kind of reaction.]

"I… suppose you're hoping I'll ask why?"

[Shadi clicks her tongue and gives me a sideways smile.]

For now that is, unfortunately, on a need to know basis. And you, dear Tulip, do not need to know.

All I'll say is this; there's usually only one reason to search for a successor so fervently.

"… So that's it, then. You just spent ten minutes wasting my fucking time with something that has nothing to do with the Institute."

You know, I don't remember you being this cranky when you had to deal with Monika's theatrics.

"That's because she was an old lady. Also it's been almost two years since then and I've become a lot more tired of people's bullshit, especially this past week."

[Shadi huffs a laugh.]

I suppose misplacing your teacher and that puppy-eyed assistant of yours has left you in a pretty rough shap–

"Also I hate you. I'm sorry, I know you haven't technically done anything to me but I can't hear you speak without thinking that you're a huge tool."

Well–

"Like seriously, is this a Sinnohan thing or is everyone related to the Institute as insufferably smarmy as you? Why is it that you people just can't get to the fucking point? Why all the laughs and smirks and mysterious bullshit? Do you think it makes you sound special or something?"

I–

"You know what I do every time people like you act like that? I imagine you doing something common like eating pizza or buying groceries or watching T.V. in your pajamas and suddenly whatever threatening presence you were trying to invoke just flies out the window! You do realize you're just like, a normal girl, right? Even if you have spooky powers, what are you going to do if I just decide to jump at you and punch you in the face? Your dumb theatrics wouldn't save you from that, I assure you."

[Shadi stares at me for a few seconds. She actually looks taken aback.]

This week's been that rough, huh?

This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

"You have no fucking idea."

Yeah. I would apologize but… you know. Your scathing comments aside, it's not like I'll act any differently.

"Can you just… please get to the part I want to know about? I promise I won't insult you anymore if you do."

Heh. I guess it's the last I can do in return for your lovely company. Oh, but you needn't worry, my feelings weren't hurt by your outburst just now. In fact, I found it quite… appealing. Passionate irritation is an attractive quality in a woman, I think.

"That explains a lot."

Anyway, yes. I was getting to this part just before you went off in your tangent, but my… association with the Institute came about due to a strange mix of luck and necessity.

I knew I couldn't stop Cynthia as I was back then, even if she didn't know I was onto her. I needed something to put us in equal grounds, you could say. Insurance of sorts.

Say. Are you by any chance familiar with Sinnohan lore? More specifically, the tales of those who would call themselves… legendary heroes?

[Shadi rolls her eyes at the last two words.]

"Something about normal humans bonding with the siblings of the Lake Trio and gaining their powers, yes? I've skimmed books regarding the subject. No offence, but I always found Sinnohan lore to be rather… heavy-handed."

For once, we could not agree more.

But yes, our history is full to the brim of tales about said heroes, to the point where the line between legend and reality has become rather… blurred. There are hundreds if not thousands of records detailing the existence of these abnormally powerful people. And while another one of them hasn't publicly popped up in the last few hundred years, I think it's pretty clear that those are not simply legends.

I'd expect someone so familiar with Wysteria to understand that better than others.

[I hang onto her words for a few seconds, a crease forming on my forehead. Something about this…]

"So it's real, then."

As real as anything can be. At first, not long after my loss, I considered looking for one of the siblings of the lake and try to bond with them. Balance things out that way. Luckily, it didn't take me long to realize that I possessed neither the valor, the wisdom nor the empathy needed for my Spirit to resonate with theirs. It would have been a lost cause.

And besides, someone else had already staked a claim on them.

Still, I didn't give up hope. Ironically, it was one of the things Cynthia herself had shown me during my travels that gave me the clue I needed. A dusty old book belonging to her family's clan of lorekeepers. A priceless relic of information that she was foolish to show someone like me.

See, it's true that pretty much the entirety of all records and tales of those kinds of heroes involve one of the siblings of the lake, which is… understandable. They are by far the most intelligent and cognizant out of all Pokemon, being the guardians of the human Spirit and all, and they themselves constantly sought out worthy humans they could bond with. Not only that, but they are practically made for that. I'd hazard a guess that, with the exception of ghost-types, those three are the least physical out of all Pokemon. The line between their body and Spirit is so blurred it almost doesn't exist. It makes sense they're so often the protagonists of these kinds of legends.

But those are just reasons why it's easier for them. It doesn't mean it's impossible to attain a similar sort of bonding with another Pokemon, does it?

[I can feel my throat dry and tighten the more she speaks. I have an inkling as to where she's going with this.]

Of course, I realized I'd have to do it with a Pokemon whose body and Spirit are as ageless as those of the lake siblings. A legend, in other words. Otherwise… well, I doubt most normal Pokemon would survive having their Spirit separated from their bodies, be it a small piece or all of it.

There are many lines I've crossed over my life, but intentionally killing Pokemon for my own benefit will not be one of them. Besides, unless it's in the right place and with the right Pokemon, it wouldn't be much worth it, now would it?

[She shoots me another one of those infuriating sly smiles. I want to open my mouth and say something but I can't seem to find the words.]

It was a tall order, but I was determined. There were some complications, the biggest of which being a certain family duty that was thrust upon me with the worst possible timing, but in the end I found my… perfect match, you could say. And I couldn't have done it without the help of my former teacher

"Your… teacher?"

A woman so striking and charming no one would ever suspect the kinds of secrets she hides under those white gloves of hers.

[My fingers twitch involuntarily at the sound of the word gloves. She couldn't mean…]

Back in her youth she'd been as curious and hungry for this sort of power as I am, but by the time I saw her for what she was, she'd long since left that kind of life behind her. She wanted… peace. Stability. Time away from the darkness her curiosity had unearthed, that which had been fused into her very being.

It took some time and a lot of persuading, but eventually she did agree to teach me what she knew, in exchange for the promise that I would not follow along the same path she once did.

I like to believe I held true to that promise, even if only by a technicality.

And so, with her help and the rest of the information I'd gathered over the course of a year, I found not only the perfect match for my needs but also the means with which to subdue his power under my control.

"His?"

[Shadi smiles, and the pale green of her eyes flash a sharp, icy blue. My eyelids feel heavy all of a sudden.

She ignores my question and continues.]

I guess I could have stopped there. Tried to make do with what I'd already acquired even if my chances weren't perfect, but like I said… I was curious, and hungry for more. This place my teacher had spoken of, this… Institute. If just the notion of such a place wasn't enough to draw me to it, then the knowledge of what kinds of abilities my teacher had gained from them certainly did.

[She pauses, once again waiting for a reaction, but this time I can't find it in me to act disinterested.]

"I… guessed it when you first mentioned her, and knowing you'd met with them before. She… your teacher was one of them, wasn't she? Their Eight Stigma, the one that abandoned the Institute."

[Shadi raises an amused eyebrow.]

How do you know that's what happened?

[I pause, mouth hanging slightly open. My brow furrows.]

"Marie… that must've been one of her theories… I think. I guess I just assumed it was true."

…Did you, now?

"Who is she? You mentioned her like she was an acquaintance of yours even before you knew of her true nature."

She was, though I'm sorry to say I can't tell you much more than that.

Oh, don't make that face. I swore a bow of secrecy regarding her true identity before I began studying under her, and even if we haven't seen each other in ages, I still hold her in high regard. I would hate to betray her trust like that.

Besides, even if I told you, it wouldn't do you much good. Like I said, she wants nothing but to leave that life behind her, and as impressive as your determination to find the truth is, Tulip, I don't think even you would be able to sway her into giving you an interview. It'd most likely be a distressing waste of time for everyone involved.

"Okay, okay. I… I get it."

[I look down, staring at my hand as it writes these words for far longer than I should, feeling a knot forming in my throat. If she's not willing to discuss this woman, the only thing remaining…]

Now, what's with that face? One might think you're scared of asking the next question.

[I glare at her before speaking.]

"You went to the Institute in search of the same power your teacher once had, then."

In a way. It wasn't in any way easy to find them nor the Abyssal Ruins, I can tell you that much. Though considering how long you've been at this, you probably assumed that from the start. The location of that place changes constantly, so unless you have some kind of anchor to the inside you'd have to find it all over again every time.

But… in the end I did find it, and I came face to face with the keeper of the ruins himself, Alberich, who welcomed me with… well, not open arms exactly, but certainly more hospitality than I expected.

You know, the funny thing is, I think he knew I was full of shit when I told him I wanted to fill the missing spot of their Eight Stigma. It's just a hunch. A feeling I got when those terrifyingly sharp eyes of his bore straight through the mantle of darkness protecting me and into my very soul. And yet… he gave me the opportunity anyway. And worst of all, he smiled so warmly at me as he did so.

[For the first time, a hint of distress crosses Shadi's face, nose scrunching up and lips pursing into a thin line. She unconsciously grabs onto her right shoulder, under which her arm is missing.]

He must've known the price I'd have to pay for that power, and thought it was an appropriate punishment.

"You got the power, then. You went through what they call a Blossoming."

Yes, though what I gained from it wasn't nearly as substantial as what my teacher did. Still… it was enough.

"I'm guessing you're not going to tell me what that thing you gained is?"

[Shadi shows me an apologetic smile.]

It's… complicated. The Eight Stigma is kind of an unique case, fundamentally different from the rest in that, while they usually vary in their strengths and specialties, the Eight must always reach their Blossoming in the same way, from the same source. And moreover, what they must bond with isn't… exactly a Pokemon, at least not in the traditional way you'd think of them.

To put it in simple terms, the Eight Stigma must stare into the abyss, and let said abyss do a hell of a lot more than stare back into them.

But, like you guessed, I can't tell you much more than that. I'm not exactly on good terms with Alberich and I wouldn't like to test his patience further by revealing such sensitive information.

"Scared of him, I assume?"

[Shadi's eyes narrow for a moment, her upper lip twitching. The smile that she forms a moment after doesn't extend to her eyes.]

If that's what you want to believe, go ahead.

In any case… that's how it happened. And while I can't tell you exactly what my particular Blossoming entailed, you'll probably want to know it was the only one not conducted within Wysteria itself.

"I see… I have an idea, but there's a reason why that's such a rarity, yes?"

Remember what I said before about the odd nature of places like Celestic and Wysteria?

"Yeah. I was actually going to ask about that before you pissed me off. What did you mean about them being 'places of great importance?' And… something about a coalescence?"

That's the best word to describe it, I think. Imagine it like a well of sorts; a series of cracks or a depression in the ground, Once rain starts falling, the water will always follow the path of least resistance. It will gather in those spots, filling them up first before anywhere else. It's not a… perfect analogy. The kind of power I'm talking about doesn't exactly behave that way, but it's as good of an approximation as any.

Places like Celestic or Wysteria are those metaphorical wells where this invisible Something gathers. I'm not exactly sure why, though my teacher had her guesses. She thought it might be due to an abnormal absence that might have existed there sometime in the past. A nothingness of sorts; that which all Eight Stigma are supposed to claim for themselves. A void which, over time, has become this well of power I've described.

And, as I'm sure you've noticed plenty already, that's the reason behind Wysteria's… unique properties. Why the people and Pokemon living there were affected in such a way.

Remember what I said before about blurry lines? It's not much different. Like the outline of a painting getting thinner and thinner until the colors inside start pouring out, intermingling with those of the drawings around it until they create a result that's more than the sum of its parts.

And that 'result' is what the Institute spent so much time investigating.

[She stops talking, I don't know if to create a dramatic pause or simply to regain her breath, but it doesn't matter. I feel as though I need this break. I close my eyes and my shoulders go down with a long, tired sigh.

Shadi is quick to pick up on this.]

I assume you've put the pieces together?

[I don't respond for a few seconds, staring at nothing. There's an itch behind my ribcage. Something hot and pulsing and venomous that, were I not in the middle of an interview, might drive me to crush the pen I'm holding with my own fingers.

Despite suddenly finding it hard to breathe, I manage to get the words out.]

"So that's what they wanted all along. A way to artificially recreate that Bond that the lake siblings and their heroes shared in legends."

[Words start pouring out of my mouth almost unconsciously. The fingers on my free hand start quickly tapping against the table.]

"It was a process they wanted studied. Refined. That's why they experimented on the citizens, why they forced those Bonds on them over and over, even if it killed them or their Pokemon or whoever else. They kept at it until they knew exactly how it worked and how they could best gain advantage from it.

"The experiment with Monika's parents… must've been one of the first, right? It only makes sense. They tried to blur the lines between them through those eggs of hers, but they got sloppy and a lot of people ended up compromised. Same with Horace and his chorus. Their… spirits were intrinsically connected, using that Chimecho as… w-what had that guy called it? An instrument of resonance? Yes, The Institute must've sent it there. And they were ready to collect the children after, so they must've been observing it all. Though thanks to Horace, it ended up being another failure on their part.

"Then… Kate, Mark, Maes, Mr. Tanaka… those must've all been accidents too. They were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Is that… is it any better? At least they weren't being experimented on, but… Agh!"

[I purse my lips., running my free hand through my hair forcefully. The itch in my chest seems to have extended to behind my eyes, turning bothersome. It feels like an electric current running through my nerves.

Across from me, Shadi's eyes widen slightly.]

"B-but… why the tunnels, then? Why did they kidnap the entire population of the town a-and… where did they go? What…?"

[Another throb of pain behind my eyes. I wince this time. Shadi is looking at me strangely, but she replies nonetheless.]

I'm afraid that's something I don't know. Only three other Stigmas were responsible for the experiments in Wysteria, and I only met one of them, the Fourth, briefly during my short stay at the Institute. I've heard of another, the Sixth, but only through proxy.

"Maybe… they could've used whatever method bonded all of those chorus kids together but… on the whole town? T-that could explain why all of them vanished at the same time. But it still doesn't explain why, or…"

[I shake my head.]

That is… a good guess. Exactly the same as mine, in fact.

Again, almost none of what I learned at the Institute had to do with Wysteria. All the conclusions you just reached I did too in the past, but they were only educated guesses on my part. Although knowing that you are in agreement gives those guesses a bit more credibility for sure.

And, if I were to make one more guess, it'd be that whatever led all those people down into the tunnels, whatever made them disappear, has to do with the Institute's end goal regarding Wysteria. The cherry on top, so to speak. A way to artificially manufacture a bond as powerful as that granted by a legend, but without having to go through the trouble of getting said legend to cooperate.

"That's… the origin of the Stigmas, isn't it? That's the marking they all have, those black dots on their palm…"

Yes, you could call it a sort of seal, something engraved into their very souls. And while this isn't true for all of them, it is usually the source of the power each of them were granted by their respective Blossomings, and had I chosen to fully go through with mine, I'm sure I'd be sporting a similar marking. Alas…

[She wiggles the finger of her remaining hand, showing me a palm devoid of a stigma.]

I decided to only absorb of said power as I needed before escaping. I refuse to become one of the Institute's puppets, no matter how tempting the benefits may be.

And, personally, I'm of the belief they didn't need to go as far as they did in Wysteria, but you know how the Fourth and Sixth are. Relentlessness and lack of empathy don't mix well, as those two continually demonstrate.

[My fingers dig into my scalp with a sudden force at the mention of the Fourth Stigma. I can feel my heart beat faster. The itch behind my eyes exacerbates.]

"So that's all this was. All we… ever were. Just a bunch of toys for them to play with."

[Shadi smiles and opens her mouth, but I'm quick to interrupt her.]

"If you say anything defending them I swear to Mew I'll jump over this table and trample you."

Oh come on, Tulip, how heartless do you think I am?

"…"

…Fair enough. But no, I think you've already been through enough, and I can't say I condone what the Insitute has done, even if I've personally benefitted from their research.

And besides…

[Another one of her smiles. It looks a lot more punchable now that I have this weird throb in my head.]

…I doubt you could actually, physically go through with your threat. At least while the interview is still going on.

I mean… I had my guesses, but looking at it first-hand is something else.

[I freeze for a moment, the itch behind my eyes disappearing in a flash.]

"What?"

Haven't you ever noticed? Hasn't it ever seemed strange to you? I mean, just look at your hand. It hasn't stopped moving, writing, for the entirety of this interview. Not for a single second. Not when you were irritated, not when you were shocked, not even during that heated, angry spiel of yours. Even now, while I'm telling you this, it keeps transcribing my words in real time, without fail.

[I purse my lips and look down at my hand. It keeps moving, writing these words in the small silence following Shadi's observation.]

See? You finished writing that just in time before I started talking again. You always do that. Always know exactly how much color commentary to include to fill the silence. It's almost automatic, isn't it? If I'm not doing something worthy to write about then you describe what you're feeling, going into more and more detail the longer the silence stretches for.

"I-I…"

You're still at it. You haven't tried to let go of the pen all the time I've been saying this. Or is it more that… you can't? Not until the interview is finished, at least

"I'm… just doing what I'm supposed to be doing. I'm this good at taking notes and transcribing interviews in real time because of experience. That's all there is to it."

[Shadi lets out a small giggle.]

I don't mind if you lie to me, but is it really okay for you to do it to your audience?

"Wha–?"

Don't you think it's time already? You've dug your nails into so many people's chests, extracting the painful stories you needed and leaving them there, bleeding, hurting.

When will it be your turn? Why won't you tell us your story? You were one of the experiments we recently discussed, are you not?

Why won't you tell us what's under those gloves of yours, Tulip?

[I stare at her for what feels like a lot longer than any silence should be able to be stretched between us. I can't seem to find the words to reply. That itching, poisonous heat in my chests seems to have been replaced with something cold and heavy.]

Heh. It's alright; I've already pushed you far enough today. I think it's time I made my leave. Leave you alone with your thoughts. I'm sure you could use the time to reflect upon certain things.

[Shadi pushes herself to her feet and lets out a yawn as she stretches. Part of me is tempted to stop her, to have her answer a few more of my questions if she's capable, but another part of me feels oddly glad she will soon be gone.

She seems to notice my hesitation, and speaks again after placing a hand on the back of her neck and making it click.]

Ah… Though I guess I could give you one last piece of information. Something to get you going… a reason for you to revisit your past, perhaps. Both for your benefit and that of your dear readers. It might even help you find the location of your teacher and assistant, if you're lucky.

"…I…"

However, I will require payment for this one. A small favor. Nothing too bad or strenuous, trust me, but I will need you to agree to it before I tell you what it is.

[I swallow. As I look her in the eye, I could swear her eyes flash that cold blue again, for the briefest of instants. My gut is telling me I should simply get up and leave, yet…]

"…Fine. Not like I have anything else to lose. As long as the information is useful, I accept."

[Shadi actually looks surprised that I agreed. She chuckles in disbelief, then shrugs.]

Alright, then. Here it is.

Like I said, the handling of Wysteria as a trial ground for the Institute's experiments might have been ordained by Alberich, but it was three of the Stigma who were mostly in charge of the project. The man himself was happy to let them do as they wished, as long as he got the results he wanted.

But… once I heard of you, Tulip, and once I began connecting the dots, I realized your case sounded eerily similar to one the Fourth Stigma once told me about. A passing comment, nothing more than that. But still, I thought you might want to know.

The experiment involving you and your family was carried out by the Fourth, as I'm sure you know. But it was commissioned by Alberich himself. The only one, as far as I'm aware, with the possible exception of the final disappearance of the town's population.

[I can't help the sharp exhalation that leaves my mouth. I stare at Shadi, wordlessly, for a few seconds before she speaks again. She doesn't look mocking or sly as she did before. There's genuine pity in her expression.]

I'm telling you this so you know that your past might not be as insignificant to your research for the truth as you think it is. Besides… even if you're going up against the entirety of the Institute, the Fourth has always been your primary goal, hasn't she?

"…Yes. She… s-she's the first I'll take out, if I have the opportunity."

Heh. Sorry to say, but against someone like her, I doubt you'd serve as much more than kindling for her flames. They don't call her the Demon of Flare for nothing, you know.

But… that naïve determination might just be the reason I'm so taken by you, Tulip. And if, as far-fetched as it might be, there is a possibility you can take out someone like her… then what's stopping you from doing the same to the rest of the Institute? That would certainly make my life a lot easier.

"Is that why you agreed to this interview? To give me more of a chance?"

Guilty as charged. I'm counting on you, Tulip, so I'd rather you don't go and kick it right away. Although… you won't see me shed many tears if you do. I wouldn't want to get my hopes up, you understand.

"…Right. Well… thank you. That is pretty valuable information.

"I'm guessing you're going to collect your favor now."

Right you are. Though like I said, it's nothing for you to worry about. It's simply something that'll let me… keep an eye on you, just in case.

"What is it? What's the–?"

[Shadi extends her left hand toward me, a hook of a smile forming on her face. This time I'm not imagining it. Her eyes have changed to a deep, icy blue.]

Touch my hand with yours. No gloves. Skin against skin.

"W-why do you want me t–?"

Ah, of course, I forgot. You can't quite take it off as long as one of your hands is busy writing.

In that case, I officially declare that this interview is over. You may give your hand a rest.

"Wh–"

----------------------------------------

[Another burst of static, followed by Tulip's voice.]

That's as far as the written interview goes. I'm guessing Shadi verbally saying that it was over was enough to… break me free of whatever trance I'm in whenever I interview someone with pen and paper.

I tried it with Lynne earlier, having him give me a fake interview, and the same principle applied. I could not stop writing until either one of us agreed that the interview was over or until outside influence, like being pushed aside or thrown water at, forcefully interrupted me.

And that, like you readers probably guessed, is the reason I'm sticking to audio recordings for the time being. I'd rather not deal with that until I know exactly why I'm like this or how the process works.

[Tulip sighs.]

Still… my anger toward Shadi aside, this is by far the most fruitful interview I'm aware of. Even if I had to basically make a pact with the devil at the end there. I'm guessing whatever she did when we touched hands, it's what allowed her to find and save me from the Fourth's flames a few weeks ago.

So… I guess I'm thankful for that, as much as I hate to admit it.

Moreover, the timing of this interview suggests it probably wasn't very long ago. My comment about Monika's interview happening almost two years ago and both Marie and Lynne having been missing support this. I don't know what that means yet, but it's something.

[Tulip sighs. The creaking of the couch indicates she deflates and lets herself shrink into it.]

And now… at least I have a lead. Something to do besides scurry through the cracks of this city like a Durant, trying to survive. I know what I have to do.

I'll go back to Wysteria. To my old home. Even if I already did it before and I don't remember… I feel like it's finally time to go back. The prospect is as exciting as it is terrifying.

Now the only problem is gonna be convincing Lynne to accompany me…

[Tulip lets out a low, irritated groan.]

Guess I should butter him up tonight, sing sweet praises to whatever he makes for dinner. At least I won't have to pretend too much. He really does have a gift for it.

In any case… I can see the trip to Wysteria taking a while.

I'll make sure to fill the time until then by transcribing and posting one or two of the interviews I have queued up in my blog. Hopefully it'll be enough so my dear readers don't feel so alone in these trying times.

Until then. Wish me luck.

Tulip Glasslip, out.

[There's a crack of static, and the recording cuts out.]