The waiting-room door swings open, and Jesse Taylor strides in, a slim adult woman wearing black glasses, a vivid pink off-the-shoulder sweater, a high-waisted black pleated skirt, black tights, and heeled ankle boots, a small adult woman with very long pale-lavender hair, rosy highlights, and a large crimson bow. Her eyes find Brent immediately.
Jesse Taylor
There you are. This hospital is miserable, the music is worse, and I have been away from you far too long. Come on, Brent.
Brent turns from Stella toward Jesse, his shoulders tightening. Stella remains beside the makeshift stage, while Keiji, Eric, Mu-shi, Cass, and Kalista watch the interruption gather weight.
Brent Mercer
Jesse, I am in the middle of something. Stella just performed, and the band still needs to respond.
Jesse Taylor
The band can survive one conversation without you. I came here for you, not another gloomy rehearsal meeting in a hospital hallway.
Mu-shi’s knee stops tapping. Eric glances toward the closed consultation room, where Yuki, Gideon, and the nurse remain reviewing safeguards, then back to Brent and Jesse.
Keiji Shinoda
Brent can decide where he stands. But if everyone keeps pulling him in opposite directions, Stella’s trial will never receive an honest response.
✓ Quest Accepted
Reach an agreement with Jesse about Brent’s commitments
“I propose Brent finish Stella's feedback, then leave with Jesse by agreement.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled -1)
Sazabi's Santana
Brent, finish giving Stella your feedback, then leave with Jesse if that is what you both agree to.
Brent Mercer
That works. Stella, the timing pulled me in, but the middle needs a shape the rest of us can follow. I would hear another version.
Stella
Useful feedback, Brent. I can build around that without sanding off the risk. Thanks for listening instead of deciding too quickly.
Jesse Taylor
Fine. You finished, and I am taking you with me now. No argument in the hallway.
Brent gives Stella a brief nod, then turns to Jesse. His shoulders ease as he collects himself, and the two move toward the waiting-room exit together.
Brent Mercer
I will come with you, Jesse. Stella has my feedback, and the band can decide what it heard after we leave.
Quest Complete
Reach an agreement with Jesse about Brent’s commitments