01 : VIDEO

[overtid]

[  A video begins, focused on a stern looking man (down to button up, jacket and tie, yeah, he put his suit on for this). Blond, eyes obscured by bug-eyed sunglasses with no arms and green lenses. Useful, to obscure an additional layer of weariness brought on by certain forest dreams, visions. ]

Good afternoon.  My name is Nanami Kento, and I'm engaging here because more of "us", the "Chosen", have arrived. 

[ And for certain reasons, he no longer can comfortably keep sitting on his ass. Even if this really isn't his responsibility... there had been another man keeping track during and after the forest, but he, too... ]

Amongst the invitations to join a band of miscreants, participate in monster hunting, identify as healers, become sparring partners, peacekeepers, participate in clubs, call in to a "radio show" and general offers of assistance, I believe we've overlooked something more fundamental. 

How many of us are there? How many arrived over two months ago, one month ago, and how many recently? If not already associated, would you notice if one of us disappeared?

Have you noticed that already there are statues of Chosen who have disappeared from Aldrip?

I would like to establish a directory, but would settle for a headcount. For the former, given how little we know about the sentencing proceedings, more information would probably be useful. If you're reluctant to share anything, that's sensible. You have no reason to trust me or to feel comfortable sharing anything publicly. 

Nonetheless, I'd appreciate it if you indicated your presence for the purpose of a tally. I don't care if you keep anonymous. Frankly, I don't care if you share more or if you lie.  

[ Yes, he's aware: that would complicate, even render impossible, any attempt to keep track if something were to happen to one of them. He's also aware this may gain no traction. It's as much a test as a start. ]

I'll be in the tavern this evening if you'd prefer to speak directly. Otherwise,

[ Here, he holds up, fills the video with his unfolded parchment. Not for long, but enough to confirm his name, a few traits if one reads quickly, and of course, his crime:  Desertion.
 
Dropping his hand and with it the parchment, ]

That's me. Do what you want.