< B-but I can't be dead. > Suyan's voice was starting to shake. < I have to finish my thesis. A-and who would take care of Pípi and my terrariums?? What about my flat? I don't have anyone here who can... >

Hawk didn't answer.

< ...What about my...my b-body? > Suyan asked. Tears were beginning to fall from her eyes now, though they didn't seem to go anywhere exactly. Hawk tried to break in, but only got out an uncertain 'uh' before Suyan continued, more desperately with each sentence, < Who's going to tell my parents?? Am I just s-stuck here like this forever-?! >

< Please wait, > Hawk finally said, holding up one taloned finger. The myriad parts of him seemed to curl in on themselves then, and the figure that had been vaguely present at his shoulder gained a somewhat sharper clarity. At the same time, as Suyan waited, more shapes swam into a sort of view: ranged behind Hawk to either side, the impression of heads and shoulders, featureless and fading against the uniform backdrop.

She took a step back, a look of terror coming over her.

< ...Is someone else here? >