Using the bugs I’d spread around the area, I augmented my voice, allowing it to carry. “The most important thing is to remain calm.”
“Please do not attack me or each other in a panic- and grief-fueled rage.”
But yeah, if she can actually convince them of this, that would be good.
More people turned toward me. I stepped closer to the ambulances, where paramedics were working with some of the most critical cases. I felt like a charlatan, a pretender.
Because you’re not practicing what you preach?
The look of mixed fear and incredulity from the paramedics didn’t help. Still, someone had to take control and organize before people started lashing out, and the city’s heroes were apparently occupied elsewhere.
There is a lot to do around town right now, I’d imagine, and they’ve practically allowed you to take responsibility for this area, so they might be relying on you doing exactly this.
“I don’t intend you any harm,” I reassured them. “If you’re unhurt and able-bodied, there are people who need your help. Step forward so I can direct you to them.”
Ooh, good call.
Silence and stillness stretched on for long seconds. I could see people who had no visible injuries, who were staring at me, unwilling to respond to my appeal.
It’s like with the supply crates. It’s hard to be the first one to step forward, even if you want to, but once someone does, more will likely follow.
Generally speaking, the types of people who lived in the Docks weren’t the sort who were used to being neighborly, to putting society’s needs above their own.
Fair enough.
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