008 | Video | Day 107

[tryingitall]

[Balthazar appears on the screen with lines of static rippling across his upper chest. He looks in good enough health and spirits, at least, but serious.] Hello, Kore. I'll be quick to the point since the communicators are squirrelly these days.

One: I assume we're all avoiding the ocean inasmuch as possible. Are people still fishing, and if so, where? If not, how is that affecting food stores? Anyone in need?

[The image distorts and gets swallowed up in white noise for a moment, a few words cut off.] ---ouple pounds of purslane and dandelion greens and picked another crop of radishes; I'm happy to make trades. I've also caught something that looks like a rabbit with tusks. It's up for grabs, because the hell if I'm going to skin and gut it myself.

Two: Given the way conditions are deteriorating, I'm wondering if we ought to initiate some sort of buddy system. Pairs, trios, small groups to look out for one another?

Comments

[tryingitall]

There are oaks in the woods, as well, and a few others. I can collect limbs, and I daresay there's some broken furniture about.

[He returns the smile warmly.] Give me a couple days and I'll bring you what I've got. Anything else you need?

[justrunsasaloon]

[So many things she wants: Harvelle's back, Bill back, a stock of alcohol that she doesn't have to worry is running out, a warm body to curl up with at night, someone to just hold her...

None of it shows on her face. Instead, she just shakes her head.]

Just stuff for the still, and the hardwood ashes. From there, we should be in pretty good shape.

[tryingitall]

[Poor Ellen. Balthazar can't read her emotions, and isn't trying just now, more focused on the tasks at hand. That's a good thing, though, in some ways. Having little things to do keeps the bigger worries at bay.]

Fair enough. I'll be on my way, then, but shout if anything else appears on your shopping list. [He offers a handshake, smiling.]

[justrunsasaloon]

[And Ellen's good at keeping busy. She knows how to keep herself going. Lots of practice at it.]

I can do that. Thanks again, Balthazar.

[She shakes his hand, returning the smile.]