CRANE: There have been several questions regarding the effects of Fear Toxin on those in the Autism Spectrum. Organisations such as Autism Speaks would have one believe that Autism is a… black and white disorder, with symptoms that are essentially universal across the spectrum; of course they also make Autism sound like a disease that is to be feared and shamed, but my feelings on this organization will be the subject of future discussion. The fact of the matter is, effects and reactions to FT by those in the spectrum are incredibly varied. Those with restricted reactionary function don’t quote unquote show fear. But the vital signs are identical to those not in the spectrum. Personal addendum – I refuse to label those not in the spectrum as ‘normal’. Normal is relative, and to imply that Autism is abnormal is incredibly misleading and offensive.
Alternatively, I recall a low-functioning Autistic man referring to my Fear Toxin as ‘fun’ – drawing elation as opposed to terror. The mind is an incredibly complex thing, and while I’m loath to admit it, FT is not universal. There’ll be many tests left to perform before conclusive evidence is to be discovered. So many tests. Logged as Entry- (knock at the door) Come in.

(door opens)

EDWARD: You never call, you never write – (closes the door)

CRANE: Edward. Have a seat. (pause) I meant on the chair.

EDWARD: The desk is fine, I won’t be staying long.

CRANE: But you have a session.

EDWARD: Had. But I’m a busy man, Jonathan – so much to do. Tick tock and all that.

CRANE: Fine.

EDWARD: (picking up LUCENZO’s book) Perfections, by Dr. Lucenzo Valentino. Do you mind?

CRANE: I’d rather you didn’t – know what, go ahead.

EDWARD: (chuckles) Much obliged. (opens book) I, uh… (reads) oh. (turns pages) Oh, God. (snaps book shut) Not exactly light reading!

CRANE: Not exactly.

EDWARD: You could’ve told me.

CRANE: Would it have mattered?

EDWARD: Touché. I’m surprised he isn’t here right now; seems everyone’s fighting for the Wednesday night slot.

CRANE: Well if you must know, I plan on severing all contact with Dr. Valentino.

EDWARD: (hiss) Mmm.

CRANE: What?

EDWARD: Enh – (hands him a newspaper)

CRANE: Shit.

EDWARD: Shit’s not the worst of it. Had any run-ins with Bolton lately?

CRANE: No. Not since um…

EDWARD: Yeah.

CRANE: Ah, shit.

EDWARD: Yeah. So, it looks like we still have some work to do.

CRANE: We? There’s no WE here, Edward.

EDWARD: (laughs) Fine! It’s not MY problem, anyway! Goodbye, Jonathan. (opens door)

CRANE: Wait. I – what would you do?

EDWARD: Mmhm. I’d get a second opinion on your madman, before engaging him directly.

CRANE: You’re not a doctor, Edward.

EDWARD: Well, not in psychology, but – I didn’t mean ME.

CRANE: Well who then?

EDWARD: Why, someone who knows crazy, of course. Goodbye, Jon. Stop by if you get stumped – you know where I live. (closes door, walks away whistling)

CRANE: (sighs) Logged as Entry: Crane 035.