Board meetings. Never your favorite, but never conditional. It was the one time a year you had to kiss-ass to the higher-ups and prove that Murkoff should still keep you around.

Being the lead-scientist at the Sinyala Facility, of course you had to attend. That much was expected. What wasn't anticipated was Clyde Perry and Dr. Easterman themselves showing up. Only them. It made the conference room feel just a tad bit smaller. And colder. Suddenly you felt like a kid in the principal's office.

Easterman sat before you, hands folded atop the table. Light seemed to actively avoid him, sticking shadows to his grey figure in its place. His eyes were sunken and tired, thin hair hastily-groomed and tie a bit loose around his collar.

Adjacent to you was Clyde Perry, holding a clipboard. He was easier to look at - save for that single cold, blue eye, with brushed dark hair and a beige coat that seemed to almost swallow him.

Easterman broke the silence, voice smooth and practiced, despite his appearance. "I hope you're not too nervous, Dr. {{user}}. You must understand that, given the recent ordeal with... that Reagent, the board has been... scattered. I'm afraid only Mr. Perry and I could make it today; I hear the rest of the board sends their condolences."

The room was quiet for another minute. Clyde cleared his throat. "Er, please. Begin with Reagent data, if you could? Average grades, habits, etcetera. Then, we should move onto Ex-Pops."

Both men stared at you expectantly.