[ She's never heard of this person, but hearing that they went and did that to Emet-Selch is.. upsetting. It's like poking a hornet's nest, constantly— and that's never a good thing to attempt with someone who by his own admission, is willing to do what it takes to achieve his goal.
She's sure someone would call this deserved retribution but that's no one's right to judge in this place. It's not warranted, and her tail fur bristles a bit as she watches Emet-Selch. He's having a hard enough time already... ]
... that swiving shite. No one deserves that... this place is hell enough already.
[ The annoyance comes out in a rush of anger, but she looks thoughtful after that, ears drooping. ]
I'm sorry... I'd been noticing you seemed ill-rested. Have you tried anything to combat it?
[ It's a more clinical question— she's very focused as a healer, and constantly trying to find ways to help. ]
[ If he thought it would be worth the disciplinary action (and the enmity from the Archivist's allies) that he would almost certainly receive, he would make the man thoroughly regret what they'd done. However, he's no Lahabrea or Nabriales. His sort of retribution is a cold, calculated affair and it happens in the dark where no-one watches. He's content to fling harsh words and taunts for now and wait for the right moment to strike. ]
I've tried sleeping beneath the white trees. They have a rather calming presence and there seems to be magic in them. [ A shrug. He hunches over, bringing up his knees and hugging the plush toy to his chest. ] It did little to help.
[ In the dim light, the shadows beneath his eyes seem even darker than ever. How many hours has it been since he last slept, again? He forces his eyes to remain open despite the temptation to keel over on the cushions. ]
[ Having a constantly active mind, she's busy trying to go through whatever she recalls regarding sleep and nightmares. There were some books she might have slipped away when studying conjury, but she didn't risk attempting anything big from them all. Though her other tribesmaidens certainly did...
Her left ear flicks as he talks though she is noticing that he's getting drowsy. It is late, the lights are dim... if she can see how long he does sleep, maybe she can figure out how to work on something that could help him from going into a dream state.
Would that even help? She wonders, but... barring talking to this "Archivist" herself, she only has her ideas to try, and it's better than doing nothing.
Well, Emet-Selch has little to lose here, and if it helps him, she could help others in the same position. For science, then. ]
No medicine, or anything of the sort? Would you like to try some, sometime? See if it helps at all.
[ She slides back a bit, reaching behind her to discreetly take a hold of her one-handed wand from her belt. ]
The medicine here only induces a state of sleep. Alchemy is a foreign practice to them it seems. Their science in all matters pertaining to the mundane is sound, yet they are ignorant of the arcane.
[ Yes, yes, it is wonderful and amazing the applications they have found for all their technology. Nothing they have, however, can induce and maintain a dreamless sleep.
He is too tired to notice her movement hides an ulterior motive. ]
Maybe we could figure something out. I use my knowledge of the arcane and medicine together, you know. Even worked out how to combat one of their own drugs with our own...
[ That's not a lie, either. For a bit, they had figured out how to combat the Slut Center drugs, though that was a group effort. It's not actually in circulation now, sadly, but... she keeps her movements out of his peripheral vision, and begins to summon up a spell that's quite basic and familiar. ]
I will need you to rest, though. So I can figure out what would work for you in the amount of time you can rest. A little bit of repose?
[ No sooner is the word uttered, that a faint aetherial glow from her wand, now being used as a focus as she channels the spell and— there! A wave of aetherial energy is sent right at him, with calming and sleep-inducing effects, one they use on some difficult patients to shut down their activity so they can be healed easily—
Menphina's Tits, please let this work on an Ascian!! ]
[ It is a subtle spell yet he can hardly fail to sense it at this proximity once it manifests. He stiffens, head jerking around just in time to see the spell splash against him and dissipate into little aetheric whorls.
He shoots her a dirty look. ]
Really? [ he asks indignantly. ] If you think that a weak bit of magic like that will put me to sleep--
[ But a yawn interrupts his sentence, startling him. He wavers and starts to list, feeling the familiar pull of sleep which has been made to wait too long. Indignity gives way to a small bout of panic. Impossible - he shouldn't be taken down by something so simple as a sleep spell.
He utters a weak protest, struggling to keep his eyelids open as his mortal vessel succumbs. He's unconscious even before he unceremoniously topples on to his side into the laid out cushions, mouth still parted in surprise.
She's lucky he had been nearing his limit on how long he could continuously stay awake. ]
[ What he will find is her looking like a catte caught with her paw in the fish tank— and a cheeky little grin that's asking "what? I did nothing!" But even she's surprised when she sees him yawn. Gods be good...
And there he goes, toppling down, and she quickly sets her wand back to stare at him in surprise. ]
Bloody hells, it worked.
[ She can't help but think he looks adorable this way, though. So, sorry Emmy... she might be tempted to take a picture of him snoozing, but first things first. She carefully lifts him as best as she can and bridal carries him over to the back of the tent where her assigned sleeping space is. There are blankets there, and she moves to cover him up a lighter one, though she pauses and picks up the star plushie she gave him and sets it back in his arms.
( Sleep as long as you can. I'll figure something out. That's what the Radiant Matriarch does, after all! )
She smiles to herself and maybe snaps a cute shot, before she gently brushes his hair back off his face, and shuts his mouth carefully— no need to give him a dry mouth, before moving away quietly. Stealthy like a catte, always, and she dims the lights and pulls down the "door" of the Starlit Sanctuary as she slips out. There's enough ambient light inside for when he wakes, but there should be enough calming white noise around for him to at least rest peacefully.
She'll just stay out here and look through the books on her device in the mean time until a nightmare wakes him. Technology is pretty amazing! ]
Sorry, Emmy. Can't let you burn out on my watch.
[ He might fight in more subtle ways, but she has her own way of doing it. She just hopes something can be worked out. ]
[ For a couple of hours, nothing but peaceful silence reigns within the tent.
Then the whimpering begins. Soft words uttered in a foreign language which her Echo may or may not allow her to understand. 'No,' he says repeatedly. There's faint rustling as he shifts restlessly in place, breath coming short and shallow. He calls out other names, quietly, earnestly, finishing on a pitiful whimper. Attempts to wake him do not succeed. Trapped in a nightmare that will not free him until it is done, he tosses and turns fitfully. His teeth grind and his lips pull back into a snarl. The star plushie is unconsciously clutched tightly to his chest, squeezed to within an inch of its life.
The last name he murmurs sounds forlorn and desperate. Yet just as she may be leaning forward to try and catch it, he suddenly shouts. ]
No!
[ His eyes fly open and he lurches upright, hand flung out to grasp at something (someone) only he can see. Heart pounding, light sweat beading his brow, Emet-Selch shudders as the nightmare slowly loosen their grasp on his psyche and slips back into the dark. His hand drops to his side; his head bows.
[ As planned, she stays awake the entire time, tending to her garden and going to check on her tomes that aren't in the tent. Her hearing is sharp enough that she will hear shifting and noises—
So when that strange language starts up, she begins to feel all too aware that it's not whatever they're speaking here. It almost sounds... no, she can't even place what it is, she's never heard anything like it. And the fact that she could understand it, much like how she comprehended dragons back home..
That's when she moves in to check, hearing him as he starts to murmur and she blinks in surprise at his motions. He definitely looks like he's in pain, and she keeps a distance until he looks like he's having a hard time getting up.
( That dastard who did this to him... ) she thinks, feeling troubled as she watches, though the cold water and towels were already prepared, and when he sits up, she quickly moves to place a hand on his back. ]
Breathe. It's alright now. You're fine...
[ She shifts so that she can look at him properly, waiting for him to compose himself. ]
... you were trapped in that and fighting to awaken. How are you feeling?
[ She's raised the light a little so they can see each other but not too much. ]
[ He swallows down the bitter truth that he wishes to speak, the resurgence of anger towards Hydaelyn he feels, the despair of being one of the last, true members of his people - and no longer that, even. There is no longer fire raining from the sky or a sea of blood swelling at the shore. There is no Light but neither is there Dark. He is alone.
A hand creeps up to clutch his chest. He almost chokes under the weight. ]
Why...
[ His voice is hoarse. He clears his throat and directs a hollow glare towards her. ]
Why did you put me to sleep? After I told you only nightmares awaited me there.
Because you were going to whether or not I did it! Didn't you see how tired you were?!
[ She speaks firmly, though she keeps her hand on his back, her expression pained. ]
I think I've found a way to help. I was hoping I could do it while you slept, but it might take more work than that. Knowing how long you could get rest was vital...
[ She turns to quickly pour him some water which has some herbal infusions to clear a headache. ]
Here. Drink it. I'm sorry... I didn't want to make you suffer, but if we're going to fight this, I need you to trust me, Emmy. You can't keep going like this in a body that won't be able to take it and make you even more vulnerable.
[ He cannot help but eye the tincture warily. It's nothing personal against her - anyone in his position would be cautious of a drink offered by someone who knows exactly what dosage of herbs can kill or cure a man. However, she has been nothing but forthright with him thus far in their interactions...
He accepts the cup and takes a very cautious sip. When he hasn't dropped dead or started choking on his own blood after a few seconds have passed, he takes a slightly longer draught. ]
...I do not need you meddling in this, [ he mutters at her. ] 'Tis something I brought upon my own head. Even someone as old as I can still be a fool sometimes.
[ She might be a medicine and poison fan, but she definitely has no intention of harming him. Not.. that she's sure she'd be able to even if she tried.
But she sighs and sinks back. ]
I don't think you were a fool. But it won't kill you to accept some help. There's someone I know here... she's a goddess-witch... apparently the first witch to the humans of earth.
[ It was on her profile when they first spoke, and they've talked a lot about the magics of their worlds. ]
... she's suffered the Archivist too. She said— the Archivist is possessed by some kind of entity, that feeds off statements and causes the nightmares. And...
[ She lifts her head, expression determined. ]
She offered to enter your nightmares to try and fight that entity away from you. But I didn't want to invite her without your consent. Emmy, if this can help... then I don't think you should turn it down. You were so tired, even my simple spell was able to put you to sleep.
[ The thought of letting yet another into his dreams or memories - and a stranger, too! - twists his stomach. Enough, a part of him thinks. No more. What is to say this goddess or witch won't demand something in return for their service? Let him suffer his remaining time here until the Underworld finally calls him back. He will forget it all regardless when his soul finally breaks apart.
I have held on for this long already, he thinks tiredly. I can surely hold on a few more years. ]
I do not know your friend, [ he says in a low tone. ] If it is as simple as fighting the Archivist's avatar then it is surely something I can accomplish on my own. I refuse to allow another access to these memories. Particularly one with unknown powers. I will not repeat my mistake.
You don't, but I do. I trust her, Emmy. I believe her when she says she'll do as she says. Besides... her fight seems to be with the Archivist. She's determined to help you because it'll help her as well.
[ She shakes her head, her ears lifting up as she speaks. ]
She also said— if you're not comfortable, there's another method she could use. But why have either of you suffer any longer than necessary?
[ She places a hand on his arm, ears lowering in concern. ]
Her magic is... it's like what you told me. Creation magic. It's really beautiful. She told me that her world's magic is one of balance. You can't take more than you give. And she's so wise, Emmy! She knows so much, just like you. But after as long as she's lived, she ought to...
[ She smiles a bit, feeling a flush of warmth for her friend, before she looks up at Emet-Selch. ]
We're already in a shitehole here, Emmy. Do you really need to make it that much harder for yourself?
Shitehole, is it? Oh, I don't know, I'm rather enjoying the privileged position I have here. [ The words are sharp and needlessly sarcastic. ] Few bother me as long as I adhere to their dratted quota. No, the only difficulty is everyone else here.
[ Consider: he would not have gotten into this mess in the first place if he hadn't interacted with the Archivist and their apparent lover. And if he could have avoided everyone related to his own world, he would have done so gladly. ]
I will meet with whoever this woman is, but will not promise more than that.
[ The only reason she isn't looking offended at what he says is because he just came out of a nightmare, and she isn't about to take anything he says personally here. She just lets out a small huff and shakes her head. ]
Right, so terribly privileged in a shitehole. What's next, calling you Ser Poopysocks of Shitebottom?
[ She gives him a wry look, but she sighs and shrugs, lowering her hand and looking him over. ]
... Just give her a chance. If she can't help, there's... something I want to try. But, Emmy—
[ She turns an earnest gaze over to him. ]
It's risky. I just don't want to try it unless it's a last resort. But if we do end up having to, will you trust me to do whatever it takes to end this nightmare for you?
[ It's pretty obvious she doesn't intend to back down because they've already gotten going on their way. And she doesn't want him suffering any more than he already has. ]
Frankly, no. [ Bluntly delivered, with no care as to how she might feel. He continues before she can utter protest: ] I would not trust even the Warrior of Light to do such a thing. I will not be used as your experimental subject.
[ They've known each other for all of one moon and she expects that level of trust from him? Hah. ]
Considering your skills, what you have in mind is either some form of potion or a spell. If you doubt whether it will work on an Ascian then it must utilise some form of magic.
Unless, of course, you simply plan to hit me over the head with that spear of yours.
[ A dead-eyed look - more dead-eyed than usual, considering - directed her way. Is he wrong? ]
Believe me, I'm tempted to do exactly that to either yourself or myself right now, but we can't have everything we want in life.
[ Getting hit over the head with her spear, that is. But the deadpan remark aside, she reaches into her back pouch and pulls out a list with instructions tidily written on it. There are calculated measurements of each ingredient that include some familiar— and unfamiliar plants and drug solutions, most of which are clearly marked as sedatives and stimulants, each in very specific doses. They're followed up with the addition of spells to lock the effects into place, and she lets him have a look. ]
I was working on it while you rested. Had samples ready to work from. It's called The Draught of Silent Thoughts. Also known in certain circles as Sleeping Death.
[ She knows it sounds ominous, but... ]
It's not as frightening as it sounds. It's a very potent form of anesthetic, of sorts... but it's very rarely used. Mostly because of how it brings the body down to a state where you could easily be declared dead. It doesn't actually do that, though... it just slows the heart enough to make it impossible to detect a pulse. It also has— [ She points out the ingredient— ] — inhibitors. They help re-focus the mind, but at this dosage, they allow your thoughts to relax to the point that you won't register having a dream cycle.
[ Her ears flick up. ]
... the only problem I had was dosage, so I looked into every bit of stock I'd stored away. I've enough to take someone of your stature into at least three hours of sleep, but your nightmares began at the fifth hour. It's not long enough to have you stay in that state, so I've been brewing some more... but like I said. If Lilith can help, we might not even need it. If she can't, though...
[ She meets his gaze firmly. ]
Call it a good hunch, but something like what she described would not want to stay latched onto a mind that couldn't dream.
[ He reads over the list silently. Knowing the contents of what she intends to brew does assuage some of his concern, yet it is still far, far too risky to use in his opinion. Death isn't permanent here - he is unsure how the mechanics of revival apparently work, but he would rather his passing on is permanent. And if she is counting on his revival as a means to test it again, well...
His lips press into a thin line. He hands the paper back to her. ]
No. This would force me to stay unconscious for far longer than the period of the nightmare. I will not render myself more helpless in my sleep, even for this.
[ It's a quiet groan. For someone as smart as him, he definitely missed the part where it wasn't going to be enough to keep him asleep for long. ]
It actually keeps you unconscious for less., unless I up the dosage. Your tall Garlean body saw to that. And did you not hear me say that you didn't start dreaming until later, too? That's why I made you sleep. To have an idea of when it kicked in.
[ She takes the paper and tucks it back in, moving her arms over the side of the bed cushions he's on (it's not that much of a height, but still elevated enough for her to be able to) and rests her chin on top of her arms with a little grumpy sound. ]
It only emulates a state of death. It doesn't actually cause it. You'd wake up after a time, and I have the antidote to pull you awake sooner if needed. Even if it's better for you to awaken naturally.
[ She sighs and pushes her forehead against her arm. ]
I'm a bloody doctor, Emmy. I've treated enemies from battlefields if they were found alive. Fairly and humanely. What makes you think I'd do any less for you, even if it's just been a moon knowing you?
[ She has considered it— the lack of time to be trusted, though without outright saying it, her wording is particular there.
She just categorized him and enemies separately after all.
She turns her head, ears flattening over the back of it as she looks up at him. ]
Just. Think about it. Alright? You've already got a nightmare demon latched onto you. This way, you don't end up fighting it, but tricking it into letting you go. If it thinks your mind is dead, then it won't be able to give you any nightmares.
[ Of course, they have to see how effective Lilith is, if he even lets her. ]
... Not that I blame you for being mistrusting. But you can test it if you're not convinced. On me. I crafted it with enough specific care that it'll work only as long as it needs to.
[ She pushes her head off her arms and looks up at him. ]
We have a bell before Lilith gets here. It takes one tick for it to kick in. Five for the body to start slowing down. In ten, you're immobile. Your body starts to cool, but that's just an effect of the ice blossom— enough to trick anyone. My mind won't rest in that short a time, but if you use the antidote once you can't feel a pulse, it'll stimulate the awakening process. It can only be used when you can't feel a pulse, though. Any sooner and your active body will just stimulate and absorb it.
[ At least they won't have dosage problems right now, she's small enough in stature to not need much more than one vial. ]
Just need to slip the antidote pill under the tongue. That's important. You don't want the patient choking. And nay, it isn't actually going to dull your mind on awakening or make you drowsy. Slight dizziness is expected, but...
[ She is serious. ]
This is my craft. If it goes wrong, it should be on me. So—let me convince you. And when it doesn't mess up, I can laugh and say I told you so.
[ A low growl crawls out of his throat. It's all very well for her to question whether he had been listening when she goes ahead and makes her assumptions again based on a few spoken words of his own. One palm bracing against the floor, he leans towards her and hisses-- ]
Listen to what I say when I speak. I am aware that you are a skilled healer. That was never in question. I at least trust that you would know the correct dosage for a man of my height and weight and so on. Unless I have misunderstood you somewhere, you want to place me into a death-like sleep for at least five hours - presumably more in order to cover the duration of my dreams. What I am telling you is that I do not wish to be rendered helpless in this fashion for that long a time.
[ By Zodiark, his head hurts and he doesn't want to be arguing right after a damned nightmare. But when he bristles and digs his heels in, she keeps pushing him with that oh-so-earnest attitude of hers, as if that will wear him down.
It will not. ]
Do you realise what you are asking of me when you suggest this? My soul is eternal but I wear a mortal body. I must needs protect it from harm or else I will be forced to seek another - although it may very well be that I will be denied that ability here. So, how can I protect this body while I lie in an induced sleep as a result of your medicine? Would you shield me? As I said, I would not even entrust the Warrior of Light with that endeavour. That is a privilege you have yet to earn and yet you keep pushing me for it.
I shall say it again: I have considered your alternative and I do not wish to attempt it. Now leave the matter be.
[ There it is. She turns and drops her head back against her arms and lets out a frustrated little sound in there, because bloody hells, this is what she was talking about when she said she wasn't sure about how it'd work between a human and Ascian. She finally ends up composing herself before she looks up at him with a puff of her cheeks. ]
Isn't your soul already at risk if this body of yours falls? Which it inevitably will if—
[ She pauses... her ears lifting though, as though she suddenly just realized something. ]
Your soul!!
[ She suddenly jumps up, sitting up on her knees. ]
How do we protect your soul if something does happen to your body?!
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
She's sure someone would call this deserved retribution but that's no one's right to judge in this place. It's not warranted, and her tail fur bristles a bit as she watches Emet-Selch. He's having a hard enough time already... ]
... that swiving shite. No one deserves that... this place is hell enough already.
[ The annoyance comes out in a rush of anger, but she looks thoughtful after that, ears drooping. ]
I'm sorry... I'd been noticing you seemed ill-rested. Have you tried anything to combat it?
[ It's a more clinical question— she's very focused as a healer, and constantly trying to find ways to help. ]
no subject
I've tried sleeping beneath the white trees. They have a rather calming presence and there seems to be magic in them. [ A shrug. He hunches over, bringing up his knees and hugging the plush toy to his chest. ] It did little to help.
[ In the dim light, the shadows beneath his eyes seem even darker than ever. How many hours has it been since he last slept, again? He forces his eyes to remain open despite the temptation to keel over on the cushions. ]
no subject
Her left ear flicks as he talks though she is noticing that he's getting drowsy. It is late, the lights are dim... if she can see how long he does sleep, maybe she can figure out how to work on something that could help him from going into a dream state.
Would that even help? She wonders, but... barring talking to this "Archivist" herself, she only has her ideas to try, and it's better than doing nothing.
Well, Emet-Selch has little to lose here, and if it helps him, she could help others in the same position. For science, then. ]
No medicine, or anything of the sort? Would you like to try some, sometime? See if it helps at all.
[ She slides back a bit, reaching behind her to discreetly take a hold of her one-handed wand from her belt. ]
no subject
The medicine here only induces a state of sleep. Alchemy is a foreign practice to them it seems. Their science in all matters pertaining to the mundane is sound, yet they are ignorant of the arcane.
[ Yes, yes, it is wonderful and amazing the applications they have found for all their technology. Nothing they have, however, can induce and maintain a dreamless sleep.
He is too tired to notice her movement hides an ulterior motive. ]
no subject
[ That's not a lie, either. For a bit, they had figured out how to combat the Slut Center drugs, though that was a group effort. It's not actually in circulation now, sadly, but... she keeps her movements out of his peripheral vision, and begins to summon up a spell that's quite basic and familiar. ]
I will need you to rest, though. So I can figure out what would work for you in the amount of time you can rest. A little bit of repose?
[ No sooner is the word uttered, that a faint aetherial glow from her wand, now being used as a focus as she channels the spell and— there! A wave of aetherial energy is sent right at him, with calming and sleep-inducing effects, one they use on some difficult patients to shut down their activity so they can be healed easily—
Menphina's Tits, please let this work on an Ascian!! ]
no subject
He shoots her a dirty look. ]
Really? [ he asks indignantly. ] If you think that a weak bit of magic like that will put me to sleep--
[ But a yawn interrupts his sentence, startling him. He wavers and starts to list, feeling the familiar pull of sleep which has been made to wait too long. Indignity gives way to a small bout of panic. Impossible - he shouldn't be taken down by something so simple as a sleep spell.
He utters a weak protest, struggling to keep his eyelids open as his mortal vessel succumbs. He's unconscious even before he unceremoniously topples on to his side into the laid out cushions, mouth still parted in surprise.
She's lucky he had been nearing his limit on how long he could continuously stay awake. ]
no subject
And there he goes, toppling down, and she quickly sets her wand back to stare at him in surprise. ]
Bloody hells, it worked.
[ She can't help but think he looks adorable this way, though. So, sorry Emmy... she might be tempted to take a picture of him snoozing, but first things first. She carefully lifts him as best as she can and bridal carries him over to the back of the tent where her assigned sleeping space is. There are blankets there, and she moves to cover him up a lighter one, though she pauses and picks up the star plushie she gave him and sets it back in his arms.
( Sleep as long as you can. I'll figure something out. That's what the Radiant Matriarch does, after all! )
She smiles to herself and maybe snaps a cute shot, before she gently brushes his hair back off his face, and shuts his mouth carefully— no need to give him a dry mouth, before moving away quietly. Stealthy like a catte, always, and she dims the lights and pulls down the "door" of the Starlit Sanctuary as she slips out. There's enough ambient light inside for when he wakes, but there should be enough calming white noise around for him to at least rest peacefully.
She'll just stay out here and look through the books on her device in the mean time until a nightmare wakes him. Technology is pretty amazing! ]
Sorry, Emmy. Can't let you burn out on my watch.
[ He might fight in more subtle ways, but she has her own way of doing it. She just hopes something can be worked out. ]
cw: implied suicidal thoughts
Then the whimpering begins. Soft words uttered in a foreign language which her Echo may or may not allow her to understand. 'No,' he says repeatedly. There's faint rustling as he shifts restlessly in place, breath coming short and shallow. He calls out other names, quietly, earnestly, finishing on a pitiful whimper. Attempts to wake him do not succeed. Trapped in a nightmare that will not free him until it is done, he tosses and turns fitfully. His teeth grind and his lips pull back into a snarl. The star plushie is unconsciously clutched tightly to his chest, squeezed to within an inch of its life.
The last name he murmurs sounds forlorn and desperate. Yet just as she may be leaning forward to try and catch it, he suddenly shouts. ]
No!
[ His eyes fly open and he lurches upright, hand flung out to grasp at something (someone) only he can see. Heart pounding, light sweat beading his brow, Emet-Selch shudders as the nightmare slowly loosen their grasp on his psyche and slips back into the dark. His hand drops to his side; his head bows.
Ah. Still, he lives. ]
no subject
So when that strange language starts up, she begins to feel all too aware that it's not whatever they're speaking here. It almost sounds... no, she can't even place what it is, she's never heard anything like it. And the fact that she could understand it, much like how she comprehended dragons back home..
That's when she moves in to check, hearing him as he starts to murmur and she blinks in surprise at his motions. He definitely looks like he's in pain, and she keeps a distance until he looks like he's having a hard time getting up.
( That dastard who did this to him... ) she thinks, feeling troubled as she watches, though the cold water and towels were already prepared, and when he sits up, she quickly moves to place a hand on his back. ]
Breathe. It's alright now. You're fine...
[ She shifts so that she can look at him properly, waiting for him to compose himself. ]
... you were trapped in that and fighting to awaken. How are you feeling?
[ She's raised the light a little so they can see each other but not too much. ]
no subject
A hand creeps up to clutch his chest. He almost chokes under the weight. ]
Why...
[ His voice is hoarse. He clears his throat and directs a hollow glare towards her. ]
Why did you put me to sleep? After I told you only nightmares awaited me there.
no subject
[ She speaks firmly, though she keeps her hand on his back, her expression pained. ]
I think I've found a way to help. I was hoping I could do it while you slept, but it might take more work than that. Knowing how long you could get rest was vital...
[ She turns to quickly pour him some water which has some herbal infusions to clear a headache. ]
Here. Drink it. I'm sorry... I didn't want to make you suffer, but if we're going to fight this, I need you to trust me, Emmy. You can't keep going like this in a body that won't be able to take it and make you even more vulnerable.
no subject
He accepts the cup and takes a very cautious sip. When he hasn't dropped dead or started choking on his own blood after a few seconds have passed, he takes a slightly longer draught. ]
...I do not need you meddling in this, [ he mutters at her. ] 'Tis something I brought upon my own head. Even someone as old as I can still be a fool sometimes.
no subject
But she sighs and sinks back. ]
I don't think you were a fool. But it won't kill you to accept some help. There's someone I know here... she's a goddess-witch... apparently the first witch to the humans of earth.
[ It was on her profile when they first spoke, and they've talked a lot about the magics of their worlds. ]
... she's suffered the Archivist too. She said— the Archivist is possessed by some kind of entity, that feeds off statements and causes the nightmares. And...
[ She lifts her head, expression determined. ]
She offered to enter your nightmares to try and fight that entity away from you. But I didn't want to invite her without your consent. Emmy, if this can help... then I don't think you should turn it down. You were so tired, even my simple spell was able to put you to sleep.
[ She's capable of big worried eyes too. ]
... Will you think about it? Please?
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I have held on for this long already, he thinks tiredly. I can surely hold on a few more years. ]
I do not know your friend, [ he says in a low tone. ] If it is as simple as fighting the Archivist's avatar then it is surely something I can accomplish on my own. I refuse to allow another access to these memories. Particularly one with unknown powers. I will not repeat my mistake.
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[ She shakes her head, her ears lifting up as she speaks. ]
She also said— if you're not comfortable, there's another method she could use. But why have either of you suffer any longer than necessary?
[ She places a hand on his arm, ears lowering in concern. ]
Her magic is... it's like what you told me. Creation magic. It's really beautiful. She told me that her world's magic is one of balance. You can't take more than you give. And she's so wise, Emmy! She knows so much, just like you. But after as long as she's lived, she ought to...
[ She smiles a bit, feeling a flush of warmth for her friend, before she looks up at Emet-Selch. ]
We're already in a shitehole here, Emmy. Do you really need to make it that much harder for yourself?
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[ Consider: he would not have gotten into this mess in the first place if he hadn't interacted with the Archivist and their apparent lover. And if he could have avoided everyone related to his own world, he would have done so gladly. ]
I will meet with whoever this woman is, but will not promise more than that.
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Right, so terribly privileged in a shitehole. What's next, calling you Ser Poopysocks of Shitebottom?
[ She gives him a wry look, but she sighs and shrugs, lowering her hand and looking him over. ]
... Just give her a chance. If she can't help, there's... something I want to try. But, Emmy—
[ She turns an earnest gaze over to him. ]
It's risky. I just don't want to try it unless it's a last resort. But if we do end up having to, will you trust me to do whatever it takes to end this nightmare for you?
[ It's pretty obvious she doesn't intend to back down because they've already gotten going on their way. And she doesn't want him suffering any more than he already has. ]
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[ They've known each other for all of one moon and she expects that level of trust from him? Hah. ]
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[ Which is where she's worried. ]
Though with your body in the state it's in now, I don't think anything should interfere. But, it's what makes the most sense right now— anyroad!
[ He's so bloody stubborn— ]
We may not have to use it at all. And— you haven't even heard what it is, you big wrinkle!
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Unless, of course, you simply plan to hit me over the head with that spear of yours.
[ A dead-eyed look - more dead-eyed than usual, considering - directed her way. Is he wrong? ]
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[ Getting hit over the head with her spear, that is. But the deadpan remark aside, she reaches into her back pouch and pulls out a list with instructions tidily written on it. There are calculated measurements of each ingredient that include some familiar— and unfamiliar plants and drug solutions, most of which are clearly marked as sedatives and stimulants, each in very specific doses. They're followed up with the addition of spells to lock the effects into place, and she lets him have a look. ]
I was working on it while you rested. Had samples ready to work from. It's called The Draught of Silent Thoughts. Also known in certain circles as Sleeping Death.
[ She knows it sounds ominous, but... ]
It's not as frightening as it sounds. It's a very potent form of anesthetic, of sorts... but it's very rarely used. Mostly because of how it brings the body down to a state where you could easily be declared dead. It doesn't actually do that, though... it just slows the heart enough to make it impossible to detect a pulse. It also has— [ She points out the ingredient— ] — inhibitors. They help re-focus the mind, but at this dosage, they allow your thoughts to relax to the point that you won't register having a dream cycle.
[ Her ears flick up. ]
... the only problem I had was dosage, so I looked into every bit of stock I'd stored away. I've enough to take someone of your stature into at least three hours of sleep, but your nightmares began at the fifth hour. It's not long enough to have you stay in that state, so I've been brewing some more... but like I said. If Lilith can help, we might not even need it. If she can't, though...
[ She meets his gaze firmly. ]
Call it a good hunch, but something like what she described would not want to stay latched onto a mind that couldn't dream.
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His lips press into a thin line. He hands the paper back to her. ]
No. This would force me to stay unconscious for far longer than the period of the nightmare. I will not render myself more helpless in my sleep, even for this.
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[ It's a quiet groan. For someone as smart as him, he definitely missed the part where it wasn't going to be enough to keep him asleep for long. ]
It actually keeps you unconscious for less., unless I up the dosage. Your tall Garlean body saw to that. And did you not hear me say that you didn't start dreaming until later, too? That's why I made you sleep. To have an idea of when it kicked in.
[ She takes the paper and tucks it back in, moving her arms over the side of the bed cushions he's on (it's not that much of a height, but still elevated enough for her to be able to) and rests her chin on top of her arms with a little grumpy sound. ]
It only emulates a state of death. It doesn't actually cause it. You'd wake up after a time, and I have the antidote to pull you awake sooner if needed. Even if it's better for you to awaken naturally.
[ She sighs and pushes her forehead against her arm. ]
I'm a bloody doctor, Emmy. I've treated enemies from battlefields if they were found alive. Fairly and humanely. What makes you think I'd do any less for you, even if it's just been a moon knowing you?
[ She has considered it— the lack of time to be trusted, though without outright saying it, her wording is particular there.
She just categorized him and enemies separately after all.
She turns her head, ears flattening over the back of it as she looks up at him. ]
Just. Think about it. Alright? You've already got a nightmare demon latched onto you. This way, you don't end up fighting it, but tricking it into letting you go. If it thinks your mind is dead, then it won't be able to give you any nightmares.
[ Of course, they have to see how effective Lilith is, if he even lets her. ]
... Not that I blame you for being mistrusting. But you can test it if you're not convinced. On me. I crafted it with enough specific care that it'll work only as long as it needs to.
[ She pushes her head off her arms and looks up at him. ]
We have a bell before Lilith gets here. It takes one tick for it to kick in. Five for the body to start slowing down. In ten, you're immobile. Your body starts to cool, but that's just an effect of the ice blossom— enough to trick anyone. My mind won't rest in that short a time, but if you use the antidote once you can't feel a pulse, it'll stimulate the awakening process. It can only be used when you can't feel a pulse, though. Any sooner and your active body will just stimulate and absorb it.
[ At least they won't have dosage problems right now, she's small enough in stature to not need much more than one vial. ]
Just need to slip the antidote pill under the tongue. That's important. You don't want the patient choking. And nay, it isn't actually going to dull your mind on awakening or make you drowsy. Slight dizziness is expected, but...
[ She is serious. ]
This is my craft. If it goes wrong, it should be on me. So—let me convince you. And when it doesn't mess up, I can laugh and say I told you so.
[ Oh how smug she'd be. ]
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Listen to what I say when I speak. I am aware that you are a skilled healer. That was never in question. I at least trust that you would know the correct dosage for a man of my height and weight and so on. Unless I have misunderstood you somewhere, you want to place me into a death-like sleep for at least five hours - presumably more in order to cover the duration of my dreams. What I am telling you is that I do not wish to be rendered helpless in this fashion for that long a time.
[ By Zodiark, his head hurts and he doesn't want to be arguing right after a damned nightmare. But when he bristles and digs his heels in, she keeps pushing him with that oh-so-earnest attitude of hers, as if that will wear him down.
It will not. ]
Do you realise what you are asking of me when you suggest this? My soul is eternal but I wear a mortal body. I must needs protect it from harm or else I will be forced to seek another - although it may very well be that I will be denied that ability here. So, how can I protect this body while I lie in an induced sleep as a result of your medicine? Would you shield me? As I said, I would not even entrust the Warrior of Light with that endeavour. That is a privilege you have yet to earn and yet you keep pushing me for it.
I shall say it again: I have considered your alternative and I do not wish to attempt it. Now leave the matter be.
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Isn't your soul already at risk if this body of yours falls? Which it inevitably will if—
[ She pauses... her ears lifting though, as though she suddenly just realized something. ]
Your soul!!
[ She suddenly jumps up, sitting up on her knees. ]
How do we protect your soul if something does happen to your body?!
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