Lin Vu

(a.k.a. Quiet Kid)

...

-Lin Vu

Lin Vu is an Introductory Intern at W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. currently studying and training to become an official agent. As a youth, the position of Junior Sprout also applies, tasking Lin to help out around Jack Pine Tower and run errands for various operatives.

Identifying Characteristics

Lin seldom speaks and sparingly smiles. A stern, serious, and observant face is what typically greets those who glance in Lin's direction. Due to this tough exterior, many shy away from attempting to befriend the teen. However, at W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P., Lin was surprised to find that the behavior is more respected, leading most fellow Sprouts to view them as a cool kid, intelligent leader, and talented role model.

Apparel & Accessories

Lin is often seen sitting in the back of the class wearing a pressed white dress shirt with dark tie, jacket, and slacks, reminiscent of a classic Japanese schoolboy uniform. Any other time, Lin usually appears in loose, black clothing that may include hoodies and leather jackets, especially when riding Sasayaki. In addition, Lin may sometimes wear chains, chokers, and other punk-esque adornments that contribute to the intimidating impression left on others.

Early Life

Lin has always been a very quiet kid, even when leading a normal life. Lin was born in Hanoi to a Vietnamese mother and a Japanese-Korean father. Along with Lin's two younger siblings, the family lived together in a meager home. As the oldest child, Lin quickly took on several responsibilities around the house including daily chores, repair tasks, and caretaker duties for the kids. In spare time, Lin mostly enjoyed writing poems and journal entries. ㊙️

✒️I...don't really like my voice. I don't think it fits me. And the kids at school make fun of it. When I'm sitting in the back of the class looking stoic, absolutely nobody wants to mess with me. But, then, the teacher has to go and call on me, ask me to recite something in front of the whole class. Now, no one will let it go. I can't wait for my voice to change. I hope it does. I...I hate it. That's why I don't talk. I like to write, though. And, when people write, the readers can imagine whatever amazing, regal, powerful, or insightful voice they wish to bring the words to life in their mind.

As time passed, their father would often travel frequently for what he would only describe vaguely as "business trips", leaving Lin to step in and assist their mother even more. When everyone was asleep, Lin couldn't stop thinking about the mysterious nature of their father's outings. Upon asking their mother if she was concerned, Lin was told to drop the conversation. ㊙️

✒️I don't know where my dad goes when he leaves here. I'm beginning to become very suspicious of him. Not in the way that most people may think, like he's being unfaithful to mother or something and has some secret family on the other side of the planet. Rather, I fear for his life. I think he may have gotten himself into some horrible trouble that he simply can't get himself out of. I used to keep track of about how long he's gone for every time he takes one of his trips, and it seems consistent mostly, give or take a few days...except when it takes a little longer. When he returns after these extended periods, I know he tries to conceal it, but I notice that he has little bruises and injuries that seem to have been trying to heal. It seems he doesn't want us to see that he's been hurt. I've tried to snoop around more and figure something out, but I always come up short. I would dig further, but I'm afraid mother doesn't want me to pry. Deep down, I think she's worried, too.

Over the years, Lin grew in stature and maturity. With their father's increased absence, Lin started wearing some of the clothes he left behind instead of shopping for new outfits. Despite both parents' prior warnings, Lin continued to explore matters in hopes of discovering answers. While looking through the room for more garments, Lin attempted to discreetly search through their father's personal belongings determined to unravel the mystery that would not stop nagging. However, progress was halted... ㊙️

✒️Father caught me. He said he could tell that I had become increasingly curious as I grew older and figured I'd go poking my nose where it didn't belong sooner or later. He told me I should stop while I'm ahead, whatever that means. This did nothing to ease my fears. His comment actually made them worse.

After the disturbing incident, their father would frequent home less and less. Wearing his clothes, Lin would take the little siblings to and from school, leading many to believe that Lin was actually their father. As a teen, Lin picked up odd jobs around the village to monetarily aid the family. In seeing Lin arriving home at night, neighbors would believe that the father had returned from his various trips. ㊙️

✒️It's amusing, everyone thinking I'm father from afar. In a way, it's strange. But, it's also good. I'm convinced that it's keeping us safe somehow. There's an unsettling feeling in the back of my mind that something might happen. I need to be here to protect my family. I know father is out making money or whatever, but being gone for months at a time is now the norm for him. I hope he actually comes back this time. At his every departure, that same bad feeling that makes me think something bad will soon happen to us also tugs me to think something worse will one day happen to him.

W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. Recruitment

One day, a special letter was sent to the house inviting Lin to attend a Summer Camp program being held in The United States of America. Though Lin was reluctant to leave the family, their mother encouraged the break in responsibilities. ㊙️

✒️This...is weird. Some strange letter arrived today. Mother said that it's an invitation for me to visit a camp far away in another country. America, of all places. Supposedly, some local program is paying for village kids to have international experiences or something. I don't personally know any other kids who will be going with me, though, so that's strange. Mother said we were all randomly selected and could be miles apart. She also thinks it will be a good idea for me to get out of the house and have fun and focus on being a kid. She believes I've been robbed of my childhood stepping in as a protector so early and she wants me to take a break from taking care of everyone. It's weird, but I don't know if I want a break. Yes, it's tiresome, and a break sounds really nice, but I'm scared the moment I leave, something bad will happen. I know she said the kids are older now and father should be returning from his trip soon, but...
America? Of all places? Their country is different, I know.
I've been learning English in school, though I don't speak it out loud much. I don't speak anything out loud much, really. But, still. I don't know if I want to go to America. It's bad enough that some of the kids here make fun of my voice. What if I'm considered an even bigger joke over there because of my tone AND my accent? It's not like I will break down if people make fun of me, but I don't see the point in going over there just to have an 'experience' that I can easily have right here at home while still taking care of my family?
Mother said I could sleep on it and give her my decision in the morning. Should I go?

After much debate, Lin agreed to go. Bidding goodbye to the family, Lin packed up a few things and headed off to the airport. ㊙️

✒️I've never been this far from home. I'm only on the plane yet and I feel strange. It's exciting, though. I haven't been talking much but no one is bothering me. There are a lot of people to observe, so I'm just watching them all. I hear bits and pieces of their conversations and know where they're coming from and where they're going. I don't think anyone else here is headed to the special camp or whatever. I've been reading over the booklet and something seems...weird about it. Almost eerie. The kids in the pictures...they're smiling and stuff but the wording is so vague. I've read this front to back several times and I still don't know exactly how this camp is supposed to 'help village kids and their families'. It just lists off a bunch of random activities and games. It mentions helping youths learn 'vital skills they will need to use later in life', but they don't specify what kinds of skills they're talking about. I don't know. I guess I'll find out for myself soon.

Once the plane landed, Lin was directed to a designated area where other kids from all over were waiting. They all climbed into a shuttle and drove to Jack Pine Tower where a tour was conducted. Then, they were filed into rooms to fill out paperwork. Lin was still uncertain what was happening, but was aware this didn't seem anything like what the 'Summer Camp' brochure had outlined. ㊙️

✒️Getting off the plane was...freeing. Like, I took a breath and realized that I didn't have to worry about anyone except for myself. It was actually kind of hard for me to...not smile. The sights here are...different. Interesting. I met with a small group of other kids--some were from other countries all over the world. I didn't see anyone else from Vietnam, though. But they took us on a shuttle to some fancy business tower. The tour guide explained we were being...recruited? To some organization called W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. or something. I don't know if this is part of the immersive experience, but that little booklet said nothing about any of this. Now, I'm sitting in a room and they want me to fill out a paper with all my personal information. I'm a bit scared to give it, but, what else am I supposed to do? I have to fill out my full name, date of birth, gender, all that stuff. I guess I'll do it now. The officiators are coming back.

With the papers filled, Lin and the rest of the group were led into another room explaining things further. They were not referred to by name but by number. Then, they were given their own dorm rooms within The Greenhouse where they were to reside for the extent of their stay. ㊙️

✒️ Okay. This place is super weird. They keep calling me 868594. They say it's my agent number. They say this is some kind of spy kid orientation or something. If this is a game, I feel like it's going way too far. I..think...this is real. As crazy as it seems, this feels real. So, I guess I'm a spy now? Or something? Or, at least in orientation. It's been a couple of days and nobody has dropped the act. They are calling us Introductory Interns because we just joined the company. We have to watch a lot of videos and learn a lot of rules.
I know. I don't have it all figured out, okay? The other kids seem a little confused as well. Some are more excited than others. Some seem genuinely scared. I haven't talked much, but I've been observing others and overhearing their conversations. I'm not exactly scared, but something tells me I shouldn't be too bold yet. I need to find out what these people are up to and why they chose us.
Why they chose me.

The more time they spent in the new place, the more Lin felt that this could become a new normal. They learned about advanced technology, secret locations, and top-tier agents at the company. They were given access cards and taught about the roles of the Junior Sprout. Before long, an entire week had passed. ㊙️

✒️ Today, the W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. people want us to fill out more papers. They say it's time for us to create our own WISPersonas or something. Basically, creating a name for ourselves. A fake name. They say it can be similar to our real name, or it can be different. It can be anything we want. We can come up with our history, where we live. Who we are. Everything. After this, they're taking us to pick out an entire wardrobe for ourselves and get 'makeovers'. I don't think I want to stray too far from my normal self. It would be fun to try to be an extremely different person, but they say we're stuck with this. It will be our 'true' identities here at W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. or whatever so they can stop calling us by our agent numbers. The teachers or whatever quickly gave up on doing that anyways early on. After a couple of hours calling me 'eight' and realizing another boy in the class also started with 'eight', they decided to just call me 'Quiet Kid'. Fitting. That name has followed me everywhere and I don't plan on changing it anytime soon.

Choosing new WISPersonas, the teens were taken 'shopping' on company budget within headquarters. This opportunity allowed each individual to fill their new wardrobe, pick a hairstyle, and interact with their fellow Junior Sprouts using their freshly assigned names. ㊙️

✒️ This place...it's really cool. They let us take a lot of outfits all for free. I got a lot of black. Some of the other kids were wondering if I should add more color. I just shrugged and shook my head. They can do what they want. I'll do what I want. I got some nice leather jackets, a couple of hoodies, some loose, worn-out jeans, some t-shirts, some boots. They even had accessories. Something about those chains and chokers just called out to me. I don't know if I'm going to wear them yet, but they're free, so it doesn't hurt to have them, right? I also got a couple of school uniforms like the ones I wore back home. Some kids think stuff like that is uncomfortable, but I like it. It exudes confidence--shows others you mean business. Dark jackets, ties, and slacks. The only thing white is the buttondown.
I didn't think I was going to do much in the 'makeover' department, but I did end up getting a little haircut. I actually think I look kinda nice.

Learning and Advancement

Lin quickly took to all the lessons being presented, consuming and retaining the knowledge masterfully. The group that Lin started with disbursed into a larger pool of Junior Sprouts, some of which were already at the company years prior. Due to Lin's swift grasp of what was being taught, the student was directed to join a Sprout group that had already been in session for a year. Lin never rose a hand in class but always received an A+ on every assignment. One day, impressed with Lin's incredible work, Mr. E decided to call the student up to the front of the class. ㊙️

✒️So...a thing happened today. I haven't really talked since I've been here, but, today, Mr. E asked for a member of the class to recite the core functions of Mycorrhiza. Literally everyone raised their hand beside me, but, guess who he called on?? I hope nobody saw any sign of horror on my face, but I know my eyes went wide when I heard my name. I looked at everybody else but they were all looking at me, so I slowly arose and went all the way up to the front. I closed my eyes and described the network's main uses and necessary guidelines for connectivity. I closed my eyes because I didn't want to see anyone chuckling at my voice. I needed to stay firm and unwavering. I couldn't let bullies get to me. They tried at home and they failed, so I was not going to let it happen here.
To my surprise, when I finished my sentence, I heard nothing...at first. Just as I was about to open my eyes, I heard applause. I looked up to see that it was only coming from one person; a kid sitting directly at the front of the class wearing a white buttonup under a yellow sweater vest. With a wide smile, he made a giddy little sound and clapped enthusiastically as if he'd just witnessed a concert or something. I raised my eyebrow at him and then glanced around at the rest of the students. Everyone was either smiling or looking completely normal. The only person getting strange looks was that strange boy, and even those looks towards him gave me the impression that this class was used to his...reactions...by now. I guess this is normal behavior?
Finally pulling my eyes away from the kid and nodding with a slight smirk, I headed back to my seat. Nobody made fun of my voice. Nobody said anything about my accent. They genuinely looked impressed...especially that weird kid. For some reason, I couldn't stop smiling for the rest of the day. I'm still smiling now.

Junior Sprout Duties

In addition to classes, Lin was assigned to assist Base Operatives and Scientists around the office at set periods of time. Lin would perform menial tasks, make coffee runs, and sometimes dog-sit new HTPMDs in the lab. ㊙️

✒️Okay, so the scientific boundaries here have really been pushed. There is some literal sci-fi-grade stuff going on. I don't even think I have permission to jot some of it down in this journal. If the W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. people find it, they might get mad. But it's really cool stuff!
Plus, I got to babysit some adorable puppies. They are SOOOO cute and fluffy and soft and little, but I hear they grow to be HUGE.

Attracting Attention

Many took notice of Lin's smarts. Both students and W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. employees alike were impressed by the progress displayed. Little did many know that, while Lin was learning what the instructors were teaching about the company, the student was also conducting a bit of independent research. ㊙️

✒️ This place seems cool. I know I said it before, but, it's true. Just don't think I forgot what I originally came here for.
What did I originally come here for? That's exactly what I am determined to find out. The teachers seem nice and there are even some Junior Sprouts I could consider...friends? maybe? But, I have been sneaking and using the info they've been teaching us to pry into the network and try to find my old files. My original file with my real name. I want to know what they marked on it. Who called me here and why did they choose me for this? I know we're spies and all, but, who actually runs this company? They never give a clear answer. The furthest up the line we get is something vague called Higher-Ups. Essentially people you don't want to make mad because they're our boss' boss or something. Got no direct names. And who knows how many 'higher ups' there are?? Anyways, I'm not going to map out everything I'm doing here in this journal. I'm still kinda scared they're going to find it someday. just know that I think I'm close to a breakthrough. STAY TUNED!

Final Assignment

Near the end of their Junior Sprout training program, Lin's class was divided into groups of four and tasked to practice as a team in preparation for a final test mission traveling into Albitrunca; a secret, W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P.-controlled test base. Around this same time, Mr. E began receiving communications from Higher-Ups concerning Lin. Commander McCox was also contacted in regards to an unspecified matter. There was a lot of buzz circling around Lin, but the student was busy training with the Petrichor Four. ㊙️

✒️Yes. I know. Last time I wrote, I said I was getting close to a breakthrough, but I'm also getting close to the end of the Junior Sprout program, which means I'm one step closer to becoming an actual spy! Within the past few months, we've been discussing what rank we want to head towards once we get rid of these Introductory Intern roles. Has it really been that long since I wrote? You can understand, though, right? I've had a lot of studying and training to do lately, and they've heaped on the Junior Sprout tasks because they know I'm about to graduate. But, it's okay because they let me test drive Sasayaki! I've always loved motorcycles and now, if I finish my Final Shadow, I'll get to keep it as my very own C.A.R.! But I can't get to my Final Shadow if I don't complete my Final Assignment first.
Okay. I'm sorry I haven't been staying on track with the task at hand but, as you can tell, things have been really strange lately. Also, sort of fun.
I don't normally like to talk, but I've probably said more words within the past two weeks than I've ever spoken out loud in my entire life. What did you expect? They wanted me to be the leader. I had to coordinate the plans, okay? And boss people around, I guess. At first, I was literally SICK of hearing the sound of my own voice. I never really liked it anyways, you know that. My style is plain. Dark. Rough. Like, I'm there but not there. Like, I can shoot one look and people know not to mess with me. I don't even have to open my mouth. In fact, when I do, it totally throws my whole vibe. The pitch...the inflection...not to mention the accent. Kids hold in their laughs (if they're being nice) or just point and make fun of me openly. Thankfully, I've never let that happen at WILLOWISP. Teens here respect my quiet nature and stern gaze. When I seldomly do talk here, nobody insults me, for whatever reason. And the more I've been talking, the more I've started getting used to my voice, too. It's weird. Like, I can almost say it...fits? ...my short hair and stoic expressio--
Sorry. I heard a weird sound.
Where was I? Oh. Today is actually the day. We've been practicing practically non-stop and everyone's been doing well. Ezekiel's always confident. Kay goes with the flow. Stewart...
...he's been smiling and cheery as he always is, but it almost seems like something's wrong. He feels distant. I can see it in his eyes. I'm trying not to be too worried about him. He's not sharing anything, but something is making me want to ask him if everything's alright. It has to be. Right? He's the most optimistic and resilient Junior Sprout in the program. I haven't had too many direct interactions with him before now...except a year or so ago when he was first studying to shadow under his ultimate hero or whatever...
And the Fifth Maneuver...
Oh, and that other test mission where I--
Odd. I thought I heard the noise again.
Like I was saying, I see Stewart around in class just like I see all the other kids. No need to get into any awkwardness. My mind is just wandering because it's 3am. Probably the reason my brain is making me imagine creepy thumps bumping around in the other room.
There goes another one. I'm not even going to check it this time.
Why am I lying awake in bed writing a journal entry at 3am? Because, like I said, today is actually the day. It's our Final Assignment. We're heading into Albitrunca. People have told scary rumors about the place, but I'm not at all afraid. It's just an old underground bunker. I'm up early to get ready early so I can make sure to arrive on time. I know some kids are also worried they'll fail their teams, but The Petrichor Four has practiced relentlessly. Plus, we've developed such a strong bond, I can't see anything going wrong.
Weird. I heard that noise again. I swear...I can't be imagining it.
These dorms are usually quiet in the late hours. I know this because I'm always waking up in the middle of the night. Maybe other students can't sleep because of what's in store for them this morning. I get it. There's a lot at stake here. I just...wonder what they're doin--
I am SERIOUS. That noise is WAY TOO loud now. It's not even coming from outside. There is something going on here INSIDE my dorm. I'm going to go check the kitchen. If I don't come back, you'll know something terrible happe--

Out Sick

On the day of the Final Assignment, the Petrichor Four was informed that Lin was Out Sick and they would have to continue without their leader...

Commander McCox gives newbies the rundown:
Vu is a very interesting kid. Super quiet but super smart. Helps out with a couple of things around the office, too. As a Junior Sprout, Vu has primarily been assisting Scientists in the lab. That one is good at science, but also great at tech. Kid has caught on really fast around here.
If there's anyone to look up to, it's Vu. Always quiet but always paying attention. Doesn't let anything distract away from the task at hand. Laser-focused. Like, I have been right here in the office talking and did you know that Vu told me I was running on a tangent and politely asked me to refocus on my original train of thought? Like, wow. I never go on tangents, and Vu never talks, but when Vu does say something, you'd better listen.
You know those quiet people who you're not sure if they're mad at you or they're mad at everybody or that's just how they are? That's Vu and, to be honest, I don't know which of those three things it is. Sometimes, I don't think it's either, though. Vu can be nice and has befriended a lot of people. According to the file I have, the kid has always been quiet, so I wouldn't think this silence is stemming from anger. Still, I get the weird sense there's a plan or something brewing behind those eyes. It's just the kind of face a spy should have so you can never anticipate their next move. But also kinda scary, like you know you don't ever want to get on their bad side. You don't know why you get that impression, but you can just tell, and you'd better follow your gut.
Vu is gonna make a great spy. Uber advanced. Very much leader material. I don't think I've gotten this much buzz around an individual student before since I've been a Commander here. There was a little bit of a commotion around Princely for a moment but that was mainly because he wanted to shadow Elsewood and I wanted to make it happen. He's a good kid, and I thought that partnership would be good for Elsewood, too.
With Vu, though, I mean, Higher-Ups have emailed ME. HIGHER-UPS. MORE THAN ONE. Mr. E told me that he got an email about Vu as well. These emails are a bit suspicious, though, and SUPER vague, like; 'Concerning Lin Vu. Please call us now.' or 'About Lin Vu. Do not ignore'. I mean, I don't know what W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P. is thinking about but it must be something pretty big because they won't leave me alone. I'm planning on responding soon but I've been so busy lately, I--
Wait.
Hold on.
Is that...?
Um, okay, kid. I think you're going to have to get out of here. I see some...umm...important people outside. I think they want to talk to me. Could you give us a minute? Thanks.

Current Status

Quietly observing

Current Location

The Greenhouse

Species

Human

Conditions

• Out Sick

Date of Birth

October 17, 2010

Eyes

Dark brown (almost black)

Hair

Short, black

Owned Vehicles

• Sasayaki

Aligned Organization

W.I.L.L.O.W.I.S.P.

Appears in...

• Stewart's Final Assignment - A Short Story

Agent Number: 868594

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✒️ ^H ־ _E ⸻ L . ^P _〰m . E ֊