“Well, this is a highly-specialised environment,” she says. “Perhaps they’re not calibrated for it. We have a lot of sensitive equipment in here- climate controls, water-reclamation devices, you name it.”
“Think of it as a closed eco-system,” she continues, with a smile. “We tolerate very little waste. I’m sure you can understand why.”
Hikaru takes a half-step backwards, almost tripping on their abandoned tricorders, as Jim stumbles into him with a huff. “Maybe,” Hikaru concedes. “Unless someone’s equipped this greenhouse with a localised signal-blocker.”
Her eyes narrow. “Now, why would someone do a thing like that?”
Hikaru is walking backwards now, his arm tight around Jim’s waist. “I can think of a few reasons.”
A door opens somewhere, and Hikaru turns his head. There are at least three other people in the greenhouse, all dressed in dark clothing, and carrying what could be gardening equipment- but, if it is, it’s nothing he recognises.
“To hide, ah, dangerous plants?” She asks, with a small laugh. “Tell me, how are they dangerous, exactly?”
Hikaru can no longer tell whether he’s pulling Jim along, or if Jim is pushing him. “They’re highly toxic.”
The woman trails after them. “Well, no one here seems to be effected.” She’s standing closer now, and Hikaru catches the scent of something on the air- some sort of flowery perfume. Jim stumbles, and Hikaru slows his pace for his benefit.
“Are you okay?” He breathes.
Breaking Artblock | Part 18
