The End of an Era (6)

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The End of an Era (6)

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chatterghosts

chatterghosts

@chatterghosts 3 years ago

(( I'M SORRY THIS HAS TAKEN FOREVER GUYS THEY'RE ALL IN ONE ROOM NOW ))

The group leads through a series of rooms, unremarkable and generally useless to them. Joseph stops them at the door, however. "... No one's squeamish, I hope."

(( A filler response, but we're waiting on someone. :P ))

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The End of an Era (6)

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chatterghosts

chatterghosts

@chatterghosts 3 years ago

(( I'M SORRY THIS HAS TAKEN FOREVER GUYS THEY'RE ALL IN ONE ROOM NOW ))

The group leads through a series of rooms, unremarkable and generally useless to them. Joseph stops them at the door, however. "... No one's squeamish, I hope."

(( A filler response, but we're waiting on someone. :P ))

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Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

( Jasper's eyes travel to the human behind her.

"ho boy" )

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago • edited

( Behind the unmovable rock, the very same sentiment is echoed- accompanied by a sinking feeling this time.

" Oh boy" )

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Jekyll1886  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Lewis, who was standing just behind Joseph, shook his head.

"I'm not, but can't speak for anyone else. Perhaps those of a more...delicate constitution would like to stay outside," he suggested.

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago • edited

( She'd considered the thought, but the finely sculpted spine wrapped in burgundy fabric before her reminded her of why she was here.

"Remember how you found her lying on a beach? One misstep and your Jasper wouldn't be here today.

I'll bet he'd like to make that happen"

Stormy green eyes stare ahead piercingly, filled with a determination that burns through both the sickly ache behind them and the fear gripping at her nerves.

Her next thought answers both the ne'er do well's motive and Lewis's suggestion.

"Not on your life." )

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Jekyll1886  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Or not, he corrected himself internally.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Richard cast a glance at his clothes, cloaked in the crimson of other men, l- ... not necessarily lesser men, but they were dead or had fled and he was still standing. For the moment.

Still, the glance said what he did not: 'What do you think?'

He would stay.

Mylimasis

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago • edited

Joseph's laugh in response was either strained or amused, but it was unclear which.

In a process similar to the one Lewis had witnessed before, Joseph unlocks the room and slides the door wide enough.

Though it wasn't Elias still, it was hardly a surprise at this point: Not-E-- Oliver, still curled into himself and still within the incredibly tight confines of the golden circle of runes. He looks dizzy and hazed, his balance wavering and swaying. He doesn't appear to entirely realize that people had entered at all. Though his bandaged hand - wasn't that peculiar? - could have been worse, such a massive loss recieving a few bandages was hardly sufficient.

When he does notice, however, he has the heart to look embarrassed (though by the hideous amount of blood and bruises on his face, it was easily misinterpreted) - self-conscious, even in rescue. He'd hoped at least some of them were here to help him, rather than Elias. That would be nice.

The smell of vomit, the dusty and grimy red hair, the stained shirt were all still present, but if the energy were tangible - and to some in the room now, it nearly was - one could feel a significant change from earlier. And that wasn't just owed to the small amount of blood dribbling on the corner of his mouth...

Something's wrong, but it's almost impossible to say what.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

"Oh, for heaven's sake!" said Lewis upon entering. He shot Joseph a look as he pointed a thumb toward Oliver. "You call this hack job medical care? Bloody hell..." His eyes turned upward in disgust at the man's incompetence. Yes, Oliver was Joseph's captive, but Dr. Weir still couldn't help being irked at the sub-par treatment. "Why even bother to dress his wound if you're not going to do it properly?" he asked rhetorically.

He promptly began making his way over to Oliver.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Even despite knowing that it was true, Joseph scoffs. "Would you rather that I do nothing at all?"

He mutters, mostly to himself, "At least I put in the effort..."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

"True," acknowledged Lewis as he hobbled his way over to Oliver. "There are worse captors, I'll grant. But either do a thing, or don't. You hired how many thugs, and not even one sorry medical student? Besides," he said, shifting his focus to address Oliver as he gingerly knelt down beside him, "it's not as if you asked for this."

He pulled out supplies from the various pockets of his waistcoat: gauze, disinfectant, scissors, and a dressing to pack the wound on Oliver's hand.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph hitches his jaw with a scowl, but doesn't respond.

Oliver, however, is much more vocal: "Are you going to fix my hand? It's kind of got a.. uh, hole, in it. I mean, it's got blood flow going to it, I think, but..."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"Yes," said Lewis. "I'm going to fix it properly, as best it can be." He began unwrapping Oliver's hand. "After that, we'll get to your leg." He was already calculating which supplies he could turn to the purpose of setting it straight. Perhaps the tourniquet, if I break my staff...

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

"M- my leg?" He glances down. His pants were too big, and almost hid the sight, but Lewis was correct: his right leg was broken.

"Uh, thanks.. Er, thank you."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

"You're welcome," he returned, his mind on the task at hand. He numbed, cleaned out, and disinfected the wound, then packed and re-dressed it.

Next, he examined Oliver's right leg.

An oblique fracture of the tibia. It hadn't been set right--or at all--and was at least a few days old. Not good.

"I'm afraid you've a broken shinbone," he told Oliver. "I'm going to numb the area and attempt to set it, but I don't know how much good I can do for you, at this point."

He injected the site with painkiller, then pulled out the rubber tourniquet he'd used earlier. He leaned back until he was lying down, set his own left thigh perpendicular to his body, and used physics to his advantage to break his staff over it. He set Oliver's leg in place, braced it with the makeshift splint, and wound the tourniquet around the whole affair. It was tight enough to stay on, but not so tight as to inhibit blood flow.

"There," he pronounced. "That ought to do you, for now."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph looked alarmed. Had he really broken Oliver's leg? Elias had mentioned a pain, but -

A kick guided straight to the nose, and a shriek, "Get away from me!" Skittering to the fringes of the circle, careful not to move his .. right .. leg..

... oh.

Oliver only lets out a few choice whimpers, before pointing at the tourniquet. "Um, what will- what's that?"

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"It's to keep your leg as straight as possible so it has a chance to heal as well as it can. Though I hope we haven't missed the crucial window. It's difficult to tell the full extent of the damage without reducing the swelling. You ought to be in a proper medical facility, honestly." He let out a breath.

As Lewis now had no staff to lean against, and as he already had the medical supplies out, he took the opportunity to remove his own footwear and set to work on his bullet wound.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Oliver blinks, scooting closer just slightly. "What happened to your foot?"

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"One of the aforementioned thugs got a wee bit trigger-happy when I came to parley," he stated casually. He disinfected the area, but didn't numb it, as he hadn't had a chance to sterilize the needle he'd used on Oliver.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Oliver blinks. ".. Oh. That's- um, I'm sorry."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Lewis shrugged, wincing as he cleaned out the wound.

"Not your fault." A short, breathy laugh. "You didn't hire 'em."

He really wished he'd brought a full medical kit. He hadn't expected this much trouble.

"Besides, I chose to come of my own free will."

He used the scissors as improvised forceps to get at the offending metal slug, grumbling obscenities under his breath all the while.

Finally, it popped free.

"F***! Son of a s***-eatin' harlot!" At least it was out, though.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Oliver watches, wide-eyed. "R- right. You guys came for Elias."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"Technically, I came because I thought Richard might need my help. Which he did." Humpty-Dumpty indeed.

Given the breach of trust on Prince's part, the wound to his foot, and his own iffy relationship with Elias, Lewis felt he might ought to have left long ago.

But if I had...I'd never have gotten to experience all this. Never heard Joseph's side of the story, never known the kaleidoscope inside Richard, never... he looked to the lad beside him, never witnessed this new life. It's always such a treat, to see what form they take.

He smiled.

"But, Oliver...I stayed for you."

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Without warning, Jasper lunges forward, landing a heavy blow to Joseph's mouth. )

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

With no time to react, Joseph is out like a light.

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Finally! couldn't stand all that yapping

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Jasper!

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

What? You can't expect me to defend this guy. This is obviously medical malpractice, so I figured I'd deliver a little Hippocratic Oath on his doorstep ( She cracks her knuckles. )

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

That is not how the Hippocratic Oath works.

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Sure it is!

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

( Gesturing to Joseph )

DO NO HARM.

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

He did it first!

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

( Pinching the bridge of her nose. )

Where did you get you degree from again?

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Jekyll1886  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Lewis pointedly cleared this throat.

"Oath or no, we'll need him awake to unweave his magic." He turned to Oliver. "Else you'll be stuck here." He looked at Jasper. "And the others will stay linked to him," he explained, pointing to Joseph. Weir packed and dressed his own wound. "Might want to search his pockets while he's out, though," he suggested offhandedly.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Richard had remained very still while conversation and activity moved past him like a river he was merely wading in and watching flow by. He was struggling to keep a hold on anything that wasn't gray fuzz and the sound of crinkling paper.

He felt mildly sick to his stomach underneath the rest of his pain and internally shook his head at himself.

Of all the things to be perturbed over.

He shifted into movement like a machine on its last legs of useful life, every motion carefully controlled as always but with very little of his usual fluid and deadly grace.

He rifled through Joseph's pockets almost absentmindedly and laid the contents at his feet before standing and taking two small steps towards Lewis and.. he didn't know the other one's name.

The thought gave him pause, and the pause was enough to shatter his masks for a brief moment, the eerie still and blank planes of his face catching fire with the sheer intensity of his sudden burst of emotion.

Curiosity in spades, terror of his lack of control, pain of more than one sort, and a faint undercurrent of bitter rage.

Above all else, confusion and a bizarre sense of heartache.

Gods, he was tired.

After a handful of seconds that dragged to eternity, his face flickered into inscrutability once more.

If his gaze kept darting frantically between the people in the room, desperate for an anchor back to himself that wasn't falling unconscious, well. They likely weren't going to mention it. He wasn't exactly encouraging conversation.

But still, his eyes held the questions he did not speak, and the panic that was refusing to crawl out of his heart and leave him be.

This would resolve itself, in time. It was time he had to find, though, and he did not know how to be useful or helpful in the meantime, at this point in time made for a singular purpose.

He felt small and ill-at ease with himself, and yet there was a comfort in that smallness.

You could just leave. They don't need your help anymore, all you can do is take people apart, piece by piece like one of your beloved clockworks. Why do you even care?

Well, the thought wasn't wrong. Still, he softened his heart and mind to the best of his abilities, aided by the blood still slowly tricking from his many wounds, still hidden by the crimson of others.

He would listen, and he could obey. It was all he could do as his vision started to tinge gray- had he really lost so much blood? There weren't that many wounds, at least he'd thought as much.

(There were, in fact, that many wounds in addition to the gash on his stomach and chest, and though they were little, they were plentiful, and added up. And still he stood, and still, he stayed conscious.

But for how long?)

see more

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Jasper Jekyll  Tairais • 3 years ago

( Noticing the shift in balance, Jasper takes a tiny step forward, as if preparing to catch him. )

You okay there?

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

There was nothing in his pockets, and he'd taken the care to remove the syringe earlier- but it was hardly missing. A table in the corner currently seated Lewis' sedative.

Oliver blinks, his expression mostly alarmed but partially hopeful (the appropriate reaction, given the situation). Tentatively, he asks, "Are you going to.. kill him?"

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"I don't think we should consider that option unless or until we can convince him to undo these damnable spells, at the very least," Weir replied. "If we can, though...what would you prefer to do with him, Oliver?"

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Oliver seems startled at the idea of an option. It hadn't occurred to him that the choice would be left to him; none of them had even known he existed until today.

"I...well," he stumbles over his words, "Well, I mean- he didn't bother me, n- not that much, that is. But, uh, you all don't seem... fond...so, uh, just- just do what you have to. So he doesn't, uh, hurt anyone again?" He sounds unsure. Was that the appropriate response?

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

"Hmm." Lewis considered a moment. He wasn't unsympathetic to Joseph's plight, not that that meant he trusted the man as far as he could throw an elephant. And he wagered Joseph would likely not take well to death threats; he had too much hate and dignity for that. If he refused to undo his magic, they would all be at an impasse.

Perhaps, then, we might come to an arrangement...

"Ideally, we'll bind him in some fashion--just to ensure he doesn't do anything drastic--and then discuss terms. I imagine he won't be inclined to negate any spells if we threaten him. And I hope that--like all of us--he wants to live. That could be a worthy bargaining chip. He unweaves both the connecting and the binding magics, and he lives out his life somewhere far away from London and the Society. Perhaps Australia or Samoa. What do you think?" he asked. It was the best workable option to his mind, something everyone might actually be able to live with, even if they didn't necessarily like it.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

He blinked once, with the look of a man struggling to come to terms with some great inner truth. The look passed away just as fast, forcibly smothered (though that did raise the question: did it even matter if he hid his thoughts, now?) under the weight of his porcelain mask.

The truth was this: He was tired, weary, and clinging on to consciousness with a stubborn determination born of years of unfavorable circumstance. For all he wanted to fight and rend Joseph limb from limb, there were still too many things unanswered, too many variables to account for to achieve his ideal outcome.

Though somewhere in his mind he could feel the dark creature within his psyche rearing its great and ugly head, he couldn't hear it to listen and give in. And so, he nodded his head in acquiescence.

"No more bloodshed." His voice was low, hoarse, and wearily cracking. Like it had been those first months after- he shoved the memory away as it crept forth. He was vulnerable enough as it is, he didn't need to be thinking about a room the size of a luggage trunk, dark and choking and-

He sighed, numbness creeping into his limbs with ice-cold fingers, gray darkness slithering into the edges of his vision. If he'd had the energy to, he would've been alarmed. As it was, the only outward sign of his fatigue was a slight drooping in the facade of his graceful, watchful stance.

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

I think it's a marvelous idea!

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Jekyll1886  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Lewis looked at Silver quizzically.

"Sorry for the non sequitur, but whatever are you doing with a guitar, my dear?"

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago • edited

( Though not obvious, her expression hardens- cheeks blooming with an all too familiar heat. )

A guitar...

( Her eyes travel to the strap secured around her chest and then travel to the floor before her. )

I must have forgotten to give it back...

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

( Jasper's eyes seemingly glow at the mention of the instrument. Her mouth curls into a small smirk. )

Hey,

Doesn't that thing do plant magic?

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

"What? Oh?" asked Lewis with a start, having begun to wrap Joseph's unconscious form in gauze.

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

I......um....

...I guess?

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Go on, play something.

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

(

Bah-Dum

Bah-Dum

"First you sign me up for a performance I don't want. Now this?"

Silver shrinks, heart pounding in her ears and roses crawling across her jaw. She adds quietly. )

...I...can't

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Come on! It doesn't even matter.

Just pick something. Play a string, any string.

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

I'm....not good enough

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Sure you are!

Anything with half a brain can make a sound outta that. Go ahead.

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

I....uh....

I AM a Soprano ( she chuckles weakly. )

...You....you know what they say about us ( with a forced laugh she scratches the back of her head. )

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

So play

( Jasper gestures to the hunk of painted wood as if to say

"after you" )

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Lewis gave a nod of encouragement.

Joseph was mostly wrapped by now.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Oliver watches over the scene, starry-eyed at the vines rising and creeping from the floor. "Holy wow... That's..."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis scooted away as the plant life enveloped Joseph. Weir wondered whether the man could breathe, until he heard the steady cadence of breath--in, out, in, out...

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

So...now what?

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Tairais  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Dizziness followed numbness like a loyal dog, thoughts flickering like butterflies darting among a field of wildflowers.

His gaze kept flickering to the redhead who was so very obviously not Elias, confusion and a desire to know flickering in emerald depths.

He took a step sideways and leaned against one of the walls of the room, crossing his arms and doing a wonderful job of appearing nonchalant. The unspoken 'We wait' hung suspended in the air like smoke.

Old mannerisms crept in like embers becoming flames. He fought them away for the moment: They would not help him here. Outside this conflict, however, would be a different story. He hadn't ever escaped the ghosts of his past before.

Still, this wasn't about him. Couldn't be about him. Had to be about Elias. Had to be about this other puzzle piece left in horrendous shape by Joseph's lackluster care. That particular thought tugged at him too, in the same way Artemis had tugged at his soul when he saw him in distress.

He suppressed a sigh. This mission was ill-fated for his sense of self and sense of control. What could he do?

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 3 years ago

Seeing Joseph safely bound, Lewis sought to move on to the next step of the plan. From the floor, Weir locked eyes with the orange giant across the room.

"Jasper, would you be a dear and give me lift here?" he asked, extending his hand for some much-needed help in standing.

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Answering with a small grunt, Jasper takes his hand firmly and yanks him sharply off the floor. )

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Lewis held fast, stiffening his grasp and putting his weight on his good foot as she pulled him up. His back gave an audible CRACK which reverberated off the walls of the room briefly.

"Damn, you ought to be a chiropractor," he laughed, relieved. He leaned against Jasper, and they made their way to Joseph. Weir rearranged one of the vines to make sure it covered Joseph's mouth; from what he knew of magic, even words could be a weapon. He then drew out a small syringe from his pocket and depressed it ever so slightly into Joseph's neck.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph stirs only briefly before jerking upright, eyes shooting open.

There was a vine in his mouth, and therefore he...didn't say anything.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

"My apologies, Joseph," Weir addressed him. "For your injury and for your..." he glanced at the vines, "current situation. My...associate here got a wee bit overzealous. And the bonds are merely a precaution, given your...magical proclivities. Still, it's my hope we can be civil about this. A number of people have been wounded today. More have perished. If you'd be willing to unweave the spells which connect the others to you and which keep," he indicated Oliver, "him bound here, you need not fall among them. Please nod once if you understand, twice if you agree."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph remained still.

The plan had failed resoundingly, and yet...

... and yet, he didn't feel remorse. Weren't there still things to salvage? There had to be.

There were, yes, but...not at this time. Maybe not ever.

All the wrong people had survived, but Lewis was right: too many people had perished.

There were four people down a hand. Had the shinbone injury carried over? No, that was before the connections. The sleeping ones could hear him, couldn't they?

...

there was a chance. Not for what he wanted, but ..escape.

He bows his head once - twice.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Weir nodded in acknowledgement. He cast his gaze to Silver in an unspoken request for her to be ready to call back the vines once Joseph undid the magic.

Hanging off of Jasper, Lewis leaned in and addressed Joseph in a voice so soft it was hardly even a whisper:

"I'd advise getting as far away from the metal man as possible when this is done. He's stayed his hand today--on my advice--but he may well change his mind, come nightfall. And you deserve far better than to be eaten."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

He looks down at the vines, a snort of breath from his nose as an attempt to imply he needs to speak to be able to undo it.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis gave a nod to Silver.

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Typical.

( Leaning in, Jasper snatches both vine and gauze and rips them forcefully from Joseph's face.

She secretly hoped it took some skin with it. )

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

While he lost no skin, any hope that Joseph had for facial hair went down with the gauze. Ouch.

"Hands as well - just the hands, that is. I won't ask more than what you're willing."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis carefully cut the gauze away from Joseph's hands.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph folds his hands, promptly mumbling something quiet, almost inaudible under his breath. "Confringam vincula vestra. Liberum ambulare."

And sure enough, the connections dissolved - Lewis and Jasper could feel it to confirm as much.

Oliver lets out a shuddering gasp. "Oh, gee- ow, uh... Okay, 's that it? That's ... really .. easy. Was it that easy to make it?"

He clears his throat. "Not important. It's not as simple for the wards, and I need to be near those--" He nods his head towards the ancient script at Oliver's feet, "-- to undo them. I've no reasons to break my agreement now, however, so... the vines and gauze, if you would be so kind?"

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Sure, and while you're at it, let us hand you those guns downstairs.

( Jasper drags Joseph over to Oliver's feet, disconnecting him from the vines holding him to the ground but not loosening the ones around him. )

We're not that stupid, Clod.

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

He snorts. Oliver creeps to the far edges of the runic circle as Joseph nears, looking incredibly uncomfortable at the small distance between himself and his captor.

Joseph extends his hand, and Oliver blinks back shock. "What are y-"

"For the ward," came the quick response.

With a defeated sigh, Olicer rests his palm on Joseph's. "Place your other hand on the writing."

"I can't, it- uh, burns --"

"It won't."

Joseph lays his other hand down first, a gesture demonstrating the safety of the writing. Slowly and tentatively, the other mirrors the action.

To Oliver's surprise, it really didn't hurt. Joseph smirks.

"Vos de carcere."

Joseph's hands begins to emit a warm glow, an identical shade to the gentle light the runes had provided.

"Sed in anima contrita es, in medio divisa, liberare inter homines."

There was a high-pitched whistle, much like the shriek of noise Jasper had suffered earlier.

"Laceras spiritus est."

The golden light dissipated. A careful test, Oliver tapped the script.

Nothing.

He waved his hand over the outside, and sure enough, it was gone. Joseph, however, looks... almost humored.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

(MY ORANGE IS FREE!!!! FINALLY!!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY OLIVER!!! I'm so sorry your present is 2 days late though....I'll make it up to you! Don't worry! :DDD )

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Richard had watched the proceedings like a stone gargoyle, never blinking, never noticeably breathing, never shifting from his forcibly lax pose, save to smile warmly at the careful testing of the lack of the barrier by.. the former captive (he really needed to learn his name).

The smile left quickly, washed away by a wave of dizziness. Fortunately, he was still leaning against the wall, and so all the symptoms remained internal.

He could feel himself getting paler underneath all the blood and viscera still coating him, like flesh turning to stone if one was wont to follow metaphor. Still, this was not about him, was never about him. So long as they focused on the more pressing matters at hand, he could suffer quietly. He'd fight if need be, would always be able to fight, but he was absolutely bloody useless for anything else.

He couldn't even remember how to speak. Not that he wanted to. His voice still felt wrong, even in its lack of existence.

His vision was definitely fraying at the edges.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

Oliver looks towards Richard, blue eyes widening. The memories crashed though his mind not unlike a tidal wave over sandy surface with...memories - Elias' memories. Laughter buried under teacups, the reconstructed images of one very drunk night...

... ohhhhhh.

OH.

He clears his throat. "Why're you, uh, covered in blood?"

(Throughout this interaction, Joseph had headed towards the door.)

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

( In his mind, thinking of all the dastardly ingredients he needed.

mwahaha.

He seriously needed to work on that evil laugh.

If only he had a fantastic mustache to twirl.

Curse that meddling alien for sending him into smooth baby faced Hell!

No villain would be cool without their fantastic mustache!

...Why couldn't his legs move?

Why couldn't anything move?

The vines.

Ow

The gauze)

( Jasper eyes the helpless man at the edge of the runes. An amused smirk threatens to flash across her face and for a moment, perhaps it does. With one arm, she hoists Joseph's tightly bound body over her shoulder like a sack of flour. )

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Richard blinked owlishly, though that was the only indicator of his surprise at being acknowledged. He offered a small, almost apologetic smile, as typically lopsided as ever due to the nature of his facial features, and managed to force out a handful of words through a mouth that felt as dry, sharp, brittle, and painful as a desert of glass.

"I.. cleared the way... to you, so... to.. speak." Was that hoarse, hesitant thing really his voice? It felt like it was coming from a body a hundred miles away. At least he wasn't slurring his words. That would be a terrible first impression- well, not that he'd made all that much of a great one to begin with.

... How was everyone going to react to him after this?

... He'd have to go in hiding for a bit, if the signs in his mind were any indication.

Where was the end he had been searching for. Where was Elias? So many questions, not a single decent answer, and he was rapidly running towards the threshold of Death, or at the very very least, long-term unconsciousness.

Still, he kept his lax posture, still he kept his nonchalant air about him, as if he could go for days more without stopping, and if he needed to, he could.

He was just so damn tired.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

Oliver nods, and coughs quietly. "Uh.. thanks.. for that."

Another cough.

Running out of time running out of time too many people

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis felt a variation in Oliver's energy, herald of an oncoming change.

"Sorry to be blunt, but you lot need to clear out," he instructed, pointing to the door. "Right now. I'm a doctor; I'll tend to him. But I need you gone to concentrate."

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Fine by me. ( As she leaves, her voice carries. ) I'll just take this guy for a nice swim with the fishes.

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

( Silver rushes after her, an unusual sharpness to her ordinarily quiet tone. )

Jasper, don't you dare!

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Tairais  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Richard nodded and stalked out through the door with one final glance over his shoulder. Good, his rest against the wall had refreshed him just enough.

It was for the best that they were leaving anyways, he could check on Artemis and the others that had been dragged into this mess, then leave, so long as he didn't succumb to his wounds first. The idea was looking more and more likely by the minute.

As he passed Jasper, he chuckled and shook his head.

Well, he wasn't going to argue. After all, he had said no more bloodshed, and it was rather hard to shed blood while one was drowning.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

Oliver waves with a strained laugh, breaking into a coughing fit not long after.

His eyes were gold.

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

A strange, deadly thing, curiosity. Even more so was the idea of hope, and his reaction to it. Curiosity from the change, hope from recognition, on and on it spiraled.

And still, he walked out, no matter how tempted he was to stay. His company would not be welcome by any in this time of vulnerability. Almost as an afterthought, he ripped off the shirt of one of the thugs to wipe off the blood on his left shoulder and arm, then draped his coat- Jack's coat- over the useless limb in an attempt to hide his katar from view. The blood coating his hair, face, torso, legs, and other arm stayed, though. He couldn't have cared less about that at the moment.

He cast a final gaze over the a room painted red with the blood of many, imprinting the scenes of his most recent crime to memory. There was a beautiful savagery to this particular act he couldn't help but cherish, though he knew he would loathe himself for it later.

He stepped out after a handful of reverent moments and turned towards Artemis and those gathered near him. He made his way over there as briskly as he could manage in his condition, as if he wasn't a wrong step away from playing chess with Death itself. His gait and mannerisms would've perfectly fit any other Londoner going out for a stroll, were it not for the fact he was currently wearing more blood than his own clothes at the moment.

He stopped a few steps away from the group. Any and all words he wanted to say were trapped by the shards of glass in his throat. It was just as well, he'd only say the wrong thing, would only start to laugh until he was screaming in tune with the high-pitched whining static building in his mind.

It suddenly occurred to him there were a great many things wrong with him.

Well, what else was new?

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Joseph scoffs. "There's still another ward. You can't dump me off yet."

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Hah! you wanna bet?

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

I'm warning you woman!

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

( Jasper marches through the carnage and out to the docks. When they reach the water's edge, she grabs Joseph by the bindings around his chest and dangles him just above the inky depths. )

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Joseph looks completely stone-faced. "Have fun bringing meals to your friend Elias when he can't leave," he spits.

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Silverliné Carew  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

( Behind them, a familiar pair of feet pound on the wooden docks, stirring the water and bouncing them in the process. )

Put him down!

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

( Jasper turns to Silver with a wicked grin. ) Let’s drop him in!

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

No Jasper, put the man down.

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Just once. I’m sure he’ll find a way to swim to shore.

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

He's NOT Houdini!

If you kill one more man tonight, I SWEAR you’re not getting anything for Christmas.

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

but

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

put

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago • edited

I’m saving this planet

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

the man

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

from itself

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

down

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Just one dunk-

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

now.

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Dr. de Lezo  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

( Their banter attracts a second, heavier pair of footsteps. )

Ahhhh you're ba-

( He freezes upon noticing a dangling Joseph bound in vine. )

Dios Mio! Get that man down before he falls!

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Jasper Jekyll  Dr. de Lezo • 3 years ago • edited

ugh. Fine mom.

( FINALLY, Jasper retracts her arm, unceremoniously dumping Joseph onto the dock- allowing him to kiss the ground once more.

Perhaps a bit too hard this time. )

You're no fun.

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Joseph hits the dock hard, letting out a strained laugh. He'd be lucky if it only left bruises, but nothing was broken.

Arty is in tow behind Alano, and his eyes widen. "W- where's Elias?"

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

( Jasper looks up to the warehouse. )

He's changing

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Tairais  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Richard cast an inscrutable glance towards the warehouse, as still and stiff as a stone island of his own making. He was quiet for a handful of contemplative moments, an air of.. almost melancholy emanating from him like the mournful tone of a violin sonata.

He needed to leave, and quickly. There was no telling how much longer he was going to be able to remain upright, and he certainly didn't need to be confined to the infirmary like this, memories and thought configurations waiting like barbed currents in an angry river, just dying to catch him in their hooks and throw him against the rocks of his own psyche.

That wouldn't be good for anyone, never mind himself.

Still, necessity and old instincts dictated he check on everyone else. Pulling forth a kindly smile that would've fit the older Richard, the one from the Time Before the Incident, the time before this, he inclined his head and took a slow, deep breath against the pain blossoming in his rib cage.

"I am sure he will be fine. How did the rest of you fare while we were inside?" Gods, he had never felt more betrayed by his voice than he did in that moment. He could practically hear the sand and glass breaking behind the forced calm. Where were his masks when he so desperately needed them?

Probably shattered on the floor of the warehouse, along with the chip of the stone from his (still unresponsive, not good) left hand. Ah well.

Quicklyquickly getoutleaverunbeforeyouhurtthem gutthemdoanythingto them, don't get trapped, fight back, fight to get AWAY-

He shoved the tide of thoughts away. They belonged to a more desperate man, one from the past who was peering out from behind emerald depths.

This was the man who had left brothers behind in a forest, in a cathedral, in the balcony of an orchestra.

Who had left the corpse of a little sister, bleeding in a field of wildflowers. Who had left a love spreading crimson wings on a cobblestone path.

Who had left so many behind, so many parts of himself behind with them, he couldn't help but be built of the patchworked remains of all their souls.

He hid it all behind a soft, kindly smile and a low, hoarse, accented voice.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

Arty still wasn't speaking to Alano, but... that didn't need mentioning. "I would've come in, but something came up. I'm fine, though."

His eyes linger a little too long on the viscera on Richard's clothes. "Are you alright?"

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

He inclines his head in a sort-of-nod again. For half a moment, it feels as if his head will suddenly become too heavy and cause him to topple over, but he straightens up perfectly normally and has to stifle a sigh of relief.

"Hardly any of it is mine. I am fine, though... if you are all well and good to take care of.. what remains to be taken care of, I would take my leave to get a spare change of clothes."

leaveleaveleaveleave NOW

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

Arty flashes a small smile. "Please stay safe."

He was too tired to properly point out the bulletholes, too worn to press Richard further. "Please."

With that, he retreats to the rest of the group.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

As soon as everyone had entered, Lewis shut the door and addressed Joseph.

"We will need the last barrier down, I'm afraid." He turned to Jasper. "Then, as per the agreement, he'll leave London." He looked at the two. "No double-crosses from either of you, or I'll lead the Metropolitan Police here myself if I have to."

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Richard nodded. Of course he would. He always was. Always had to be fine. Had to, or everyone else would end up like Benediktas...

Upon hearing Lewis's summons to the rest of the group, he stifled a sigh that would've ended as more of a growl. There was no chance of escaping the consequences of his fall now, and he was going to fall. The gray around the edges of his vision was now a film, matching the color of the tint of his skin underneath all the crimson.

He really needed to wash that off. Blood tended to upset people, right? Even if that had never really made much sense to him, everyone had it, after all-

Wrong mindset for the wrong time. He needed to focus. Just a little longer. He'd be fine just a little longer.

At least this way he could know if his hopes were warranted.

He stepped back inside the warehouse and let his gaze wander again, though he couldn't summon the energy to feel emotion towards his work once more.

Tchlk, tchlk, tchlk.

Well. That boded ill.

Just a little longer, he'd be fine just a little longer, he chanted to the tune of crinkling paper and high-pitched, whining static.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 3 years ago

As soon as everyone had entered, Lewis shut the door and addressed Joseph.

"We'll need the last barrier down, I'm afraid." He turned to Jasper. "Then, as per the agreement, he'll leave London." He looked at the two. "No double-crosses from either of you, or I'll lead the Metropolitan Police here myself if I have to."

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

And how are you going to make sure he doesn't come back and do it again?

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

He couldn't suppress a thinly spreading smile.

"I have...people."

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Amber eyes sear right through him with a burning intensity.

"Of course you do. Your type always has people." )

Then tell your people to keep a close eye on this joker, 'cause the next time he's down here, he's getting more than just a playdate with fishes.

( Her intensity shifts to Joseph. )

He'll be moving in.

Permanently.

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Lewis stared right back, measure for measure...until Jasper looked to Joseph, at which point his gaze followed.

"Naturally." He raised an eyebrow. Did she really think him so lax? He was nothing if not thorough.

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

So no more hurting people! it's settled!

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Jasper Jekyll  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Presently.

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago • edited

Weir's smile twitched higher a split-second.

'Seems Jasper's thorough, too. He respected that

Well, Joseph will have his chance. I do hope he makes wise use of it. It's on him, now. Anyone who can't make a new start in Samoa's a damn fool.

"Those were indeed the original terms of the arrangement," he reiterated. Had they really needed to rehash all this?

"Joseph, if you would..." he requested, conveying an air of courtesy even in the midst of his weariness. An agreement had to be mutual, after all.

When this is over, I am going to sleep for days.

Yet even as he thought it, there came the realization that he wouldn't have the luxury. The rent would come due, and he'd need to purchase a new walking stick. To make ends meet, he'd have to keep at the two paying jobs he had, maybe take on a third, never mind his pro bono work for the Society. And that didn't even factor in the time he'd need to devote to keeping an eye on Hastie...and Richard. He was exhausted just thinking about it.

But I'll do it, he vowed. I will find a way.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

"It's all outside." His gaze flits toward the upper level. "And someone will need to wake him."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Lewis looked to Richard.

"He's your 'mylimasis'," he suggested, brows raised. He gave a brief, upward nod in the direction of the stairs. "Go to 'im."

He turned his attention back to Joseph.

"I'll accompany you outside," he assured, mindful of Jasper's presence. Mentally, he was already composing a note to send with him to Samoa.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago • edited

The small flash of oddly placed irritation he felt towards Lewis was quickly smothered under a calm facade. Underneath that, his heart gave it's best attempt at speeding in anticipation, though it was a sluggish shadow of true reaction.

He'd be fine. He could make it back to the Society for Elias, then leave before he got trapped in the infirmary. Perhaps under the guise of having dropped a weapon.

He nodded, then turned on his heel and prowled out of the room, disappearing jnto Joseph's former office. Again, he moved with all the grace he usually did, but it was slower, more exaggerated.

Like a music box winding down.

"Mylimasis. I hope you forgive me for the mess. A shadow of reaction hidden from view, the idea of upturned lips and gleaming eyes.

He was just a bit too weary to try and bring the idea to life at the moment. He'd smile if he needed to.

For now, he just needed to go.

He climbed the stairs to the second floor, pushing through the fog his mind long enough to come to his senses as he reached Elias.

A soft, genuine smile graced his face, the sort that would only ever belong to Elias.

"The great, devouring beast, gentled by a mere mortal." A familiar voice. An unwanted voice. He shoved the thought out of his head and allowed the smile to grow in luminance.

All too aware of himself and his reactions waking from a similar state, he crouched a step or so away from Elias, gazing down at him with eyes sheltering fathomless emotion.

He'd call out first; any new blows to his person could very well topple him.

"Elias, mylimasis. If you could, would you kindly wake?" At least his voice didn't sound like it was being dragged through glass and gravel. Even it was softer, the rasping of silk over stone, perhaps.

He fought off another wave of darkness.

"A moment longer," he begged of the threads of fate, "That is all we need. That is all I need."

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

There was a small shift, a stir, but he doesn't wake. Not at first. Not to worry, though: his chest still provides a gentle, reassuring rise-and-fall.

Eventually, and very, very slowly, Elias' eyes crack open. He sits up with a start, gaze flicking every which way before settling on Richard. "W-w.. when did you..."

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Richard's smile brightened just shy of a grin. "I have been in and out a few times over the course of the last few hours, as have a collection of friends and allies."

Distantly, he wished he had had the chance to change clothes to spare Elias the sight of him coated in crimson.

He stayed still, though a more tender light entered his eyes. "Though it is good to see you awake, I must ask: can you stand? I think we would all wish to leave this place sooner rather than later."

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

"Uh-" His eyes fall towards the tourniquet. "Broken shin? No, I can't."

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

His gaze flickered down, and for a handful of moments he just stared.

After that, he punched the bridge of his nose and sighed, then chuckled. The flicker of panic and self-chiding that rippled across his face went unaddressed.

"My apologies, my mind is in a bit of a cloud at the moment. I can carry you if you'd like, or you can lean on me. Either will work."

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 3 years ago

"As flirtation-starved as I am," he says, cracking a small grin, "I'll do with leaning."

He gets to one foot slowly, resting against Richard the entire time. "Though I swear to god, if you run out on me with all those bulletholes, I am gonna be pissed."

He wasn't going to address the stutter that had been long lost.

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Richard's smile flickered as monochrome gray and fading color waters for dominance in his vision, though it was quickly replaced by a more sheepish cousin. He was caught, as expected really.

"Well, when you put it like that ..."

He swallowed the panic yawning in his stomach as he thought of lying in an infirmary for gods know how many days. Weeks, likely. There really were a lot of bullet holes. As soon as he stopped moving, stopped thinking, he was done for.

It was probably for the best if he got Elias outside at the very least.

He shuffled the pair of them back the way he'd come, offering a murmured apology for the gristly scene he'd left behind.

Noticing the rest of the group outside, he made their way to join up, steadfastly ignoring his newly acquired tunnel vision.

Just a moment more. Only a few more moments.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

(hisssssss.... DARN IT ELIAS!!! >:\

On a side note he did call out the bullet-holes so that does make up for it! <3 )

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Tairais • 3 years ago

( *whispering* CARRY CARRY CARRY CARRY!!!!!! :DDDDD )

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Tairais  Hyde without a Jekyll • 3 years ago

(( Hon if he even thinks about carrying anything but a feather, he's gonna pass out xD ))

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Tairais • 3 years ago

(( Shhhhhh!!!! *hugs pictures* Let me have this!!! )

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Tairais  Hyde without a Jekyll • 3 years ago

(( XD I'm sure there'll be more opportunities. ))

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Tairais • 3 years ago

(There better be!!! >:

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Right. Let's get going.

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Lewis followed Joseph and Jasper outside.

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Alright. Where do we drop 'em?

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Lewis looked to Joseph.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Arty follows as well, having hung back for just a moment to watch Richard.

"At the start of the inscriptions, please," Joseph clarifies. "We have to wait for your friend, however."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Judging from Joseph's nonverbal cues, he was telling the truth. They'd have to wait for Elias. Though Weir did raise a brow ever so slightly at the term, "friend".

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( True to her word, Jasper indeed does drop Joseph-

-several feet onto start of the inscriptions, setting him up for a few more injuries. )

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Tairais  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Richard very nearly winced in sympathy as he and Elias arrived just in time to watch Joseph get reacquainted with the cruel embrace of the ground. Only nearly, though. His stone-smooth mask stayed in place quite admirably, all things considered.

Never mind the fact he felt like sleeping until a new epoch started, nor the fact his vision was essentially a series of bright and colorful pinpricks against a sea of darkness, nor the fact he still couldn't use one of his arms. There was also the small problem of his voice slipping under lock and key once more- hopefully he could gently lower Elias to the ground before he inevitably fell unconscious again.

It was all fine, outwardly. He didn't smile so much as the corners of his lips lifted, though it did brighten his expression somewhat.

He nodded towards Lewis and Joseph, wanting to get everything over and done with. The sooner they were moving again, the sooner they would be home.

The sooner he could break himself free of the infirmary and escape to the one safehouse he had purchased with the funds from his family name.

"The waves of the coastline are rapidly receding." His smile danced at the corners of his mouth. "Bring on the tsunami, then. I will weather it as I have before, and hopefully be changed for the better."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 3 years ago

"Oh, for--" Lewis cut himself off as he watched Jasper let Joseph go. He was distracted by the arrival of Richard and Elias. The former didn't look at all well. And if he toppled, then so would Elias. And they'd be even further delayed.

He lowered himself to the ground. Once settled, he addressed them.

"Here," he said, holding the stick out horizontally to offer it to whoever cared to take it.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph laughs out, the pain he felt not surfacing for even a second in his expression.

Elias glances towards Richard hesitantly before gesturing for it to be given to the latter, resting himself opposite Joseph with a huff.

"Oliver really is quite nice," Joseph remarked as he examined the writing. "For your.. 'impulsive' side, that is." There wasn't any sarcasm behind it; just a simple, honest statement.

"Hands here," he said suddenly.

Elias sat upright. "What?"

"The warding. Physical procedure wouldn't be required, were the connection still intact, but your pals were hellbent on that going first," Joseph stated plainly. "Though I will warn you that this is slightly...draining. You're the 'original', after all."

His eyes dart towards the others. "I say that so you know that Elias' exhaustion isn't sabotage, but a mere effect of the spell."

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

He considered taking the staff and making his escape that way, but Elias' words stuck fast in his mind and stayed his course.

His soulful gaze darted towards Joseph, then Elias, then Lewis and Jasper and the rest of their motley crew.

Too many eyes out. He swallowed against the threads of memory that threatened to choke him. If he could stay awake long enough, he could slip away when everyone else was distracted or falling asleep.

He had to, he couldn't be caught again. Not again, not again, not again.

Just a moment more. He could hold on to the image of Elias, a golden light (golden eyes) to chase away the dark.

He could taste copper in his mouth. He didn't have much time, but damn if he wasn't stubbornly holding on with every fiber of his being.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 3 years ago • edited

"Or...not..." said Lewis, upon seeing neither had bothered to take the proffered stick. 'S'pose some people wouldn't know how to accept aid if I knocked 'em over the head with it. There's a lesson there, all right. He took the staff back, using it to help himself stand again. He paid attention to Joseph's energy and words, making sure to keep Prince in his peripheral vision. The latter, he knew, was lucky to still be vertical.

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Great Minds think alike.

As if to share the sentiment, Jasper shifts slightly over, positioning her body in a way that would spare Richard the experience of kissing the ground. )

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago • edited

(( IGNORE THIS ))

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Elias casts a concerned glance to Richard before Joseph clears his throat. "Let's begin."

He lays a hand on the writing, in a manner quite similar to the procedure before. The words, however, are most definitely different. "Es anima originalis. Tacito tantummodo animam conjectus in carcerem, si comitetur vobiscum."

Elias seems to tense slightly. There was a feeling to be found in the words, despite the language barrier.

"Tuum tempus. In manu tua est libertas. Redi domum tuam."

A golden light begins to creep across the lettering, a color almost identical to Elias' own irises. His, however, have a ... glassy look to them. Defocused.

"Vacat vobis, liberum," Joseph continues. The light show seems to burn brighter.

"Com tua fata quiescit eos."

The golden light seems to slide past both men's hands, sinking into their veins and disappearing with the rest of it, that was dulling and fading away.

Elias wrenches his hands away, his eyes lingering a long time - too long - on them. There was no whistle this time, thankfully; it was just... silent, almost eerily so.

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Well that was fun.

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago • edited

"Excuse me just one moment."

Lewis hobbled off but returned a few minutes later.

He approached Joseph and pressed a few pieces of paper into his hand. One was a folded note bearing the latter's name. Another was a makeshift envelope with something light inside. The third was a ticket for passage on a ship.

"I'll accompany you to the gangplank," he promised. "You have everything you need for the way forward."

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Richard had opened his mouth to say something in the wake of Lewis's return, presumably along the lines of a far too calm "Well then, shall we be off?" when a series of thoughts occurred in rapid succession.

One: Elias is free. Good. Mylimasis.

Two: His vision was composed of layers of fog, and he couldn't really see anything, now that danger had passed and all the adrenaline had left his system

Three: Gods above and below, cold fire had doused every inch of his abdomen and chest, how had he even managed to stay upright this long? He couldn't even feel his lungs completely, though there was the sensation of something poking at one of them regardless.

Four, and with great emphasis: "Xsiol, šikti, Дерьмо, ¡Maldito sea!", and several variations thereupon.

He managed to take half a step back and offer a soft, venomous "Cazzo!" before the tide of unawareness he had been fighting for the last... indeterminate measure of time swiftly and vengefully caught up with him and dragged him towards the ground, unresponsive to the world at whole.

Well. At least his body had a sense of dramatic timing.

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Jasper Jekyll  Tairais • 3 years ago

( Just before his body hits the ground, dramatically, a meaty hand reaches out to catch it.

Jasper places Richard over her shoulder, musing quietly to herself.

These humans sure do keep her on her toes. )

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Joseph nods to Lewis, getting to his feet slowly. There was gratefulness somewhere in his expression, however small.

Arty, who had remained eerily silent through the ordeal, swoops in to help Elias up - and they both wear a remarkably similar expression at the sight of the falling Richard.

Elias, tone laced with worry: "Can you just...take him back to the Society?"

Arty, even and calm... too calm, that is: "He'll be alright, Elias, I'm sure of it."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

Lewis let a breath out slowly as he watched Richard finally faint. He could feel his anxiety lessen. For the moment, Hastie'd be safe.

That man can certainly take a beating. He's practically inhuman! Maybe he could catch a quick nap himself while Richard was out. It was likely the only chance he'd get in a long, long while...

He looked to Jasper, sure she'd want to see Joseph off, too, then started toward the ship.

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Though she remains at a distance, Jasper does indeed follow them.

Richard will be fine for a little while longer. )

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chatterghosts  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Elias scowls at Jasper's refusal to listen to him, though Arty's less disappointed. He clears his throat, facing Elias. "Perfect! Now, you have a lot of explaining to do..."

--

Joseph follows after Lewis, quickly going over the items the latter had given him.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Aside from the ticket, which indicated Joseph would put in at Apia harbor, Samoa, the items consisted of a folded note, written on a page Weir'd ripped from his journal, as well as an origami pouch-envelope made from the same source. Inside the envelope was some cash.

"I've outlined the essentials in my letter," he told Joseph as they walked. "I know things didn't go to plan, but I do hope you'll be able to make a fresh start. It was the only way I could see to...well."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph looks.. surprised, to say the least. "I caused all of your, er, companions quite a bit of pain. Not to seem ungrateful, but... why are you so interested in my well-being?"

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

A smile, a small chuckle.

"Intent counts for quite a bit with me. And I see more than a little of myself in you, if I'm honest. I know what you tried to do arose out of loss--great loss." He shook his head, depth in his gaze. "I know loss too well. Given your circumstances--and, had I your abilities--the 'me' of times past would've done something similar." Likely worse.

A small laugh.

"And, to be fair, you didn't threaten any of my tethers." No... One of my "companions" did that for you. A part of one of them, he corrected himself silently. "Besides," he said, gesturing to the money envelope, "I had all this to hand anyway, in case things went wrong." He shrugged. "You may as well make use of it. I know now I'm in London to stay."

They reached the dock.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

"Uh..huh," he muttered, more than slightly confused. Though he sounded it, Lewis didn't look that old - in fact, they almost appeared to be around the same age.

A question he'd never get an answer to, he decided.

Joseph faces Lewis with a small nod. "Well.. uh, let's just hope I never see you again, then," he chuckles.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"Godspeed, Joseph."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Joseph offers a well-meaning nod, retreating up past the gangplank. He reveals the ticket to the man waiting at the top, waves to the others without turning, and, finally, disappears onto the ship.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis rejoined the others.

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Jasper Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Oh the bluff, that's what they all do in the end.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

As soon as the three file out, Oliver looks towards Lewis with two bright, golden eyes. "How-- d- did you know?"

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

She had better not be serious... Lewis all but growled inwardly, incensed at Jasper's assertion. A man's word is his bond; I'll not be made a liar of without my consent!

But there was a more pressing matter now.

"I, ah...could sense a change in the energy flowing about and through you." He went ahead and unbound Oliver's splint as he spoke, then did the same for the wrapping on his hand. "Like currents shifting in a stream. 'Wagered you didn't want the prying eyes. I certainly wouldn't."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

"No, you're right.." He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. "I, uh, I think I'm going to get sick."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Weir quickly turned the rubber tourniquet into makeshift hairband.

"You'd best put this on, then," he suggested, handing it to him.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

He pulls his hair back and arranges it in a loose ponytail. "Could you, uh, look away?"

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis gave a deep nod as his eyes closed in understanding.

"Certainly."

He scooted away from Oliver to face the wall, back turned.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

The moment Lewis isn't looking there's sickened coughing and heaving from Oliver, though thankfully, it only lasts a few minutes-- two or three, at most. When it finally ends, he sinks to the floor with a laugh, resting against the wall and careful to avoid his own sick. "It's a-always the f-f-fun part, that..."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

"Damn, that sounded like a rough go," observed Weir. "Does it always happen this way?"

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

"If you want," Oliver huffs out. "But, uh, y'know, I'm not gonna be here much longer."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

"Generally," comes the weary response. "Sickness, and then the physical change--"

There was a groan, and a strained laugh. "Not fun, typically."

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

"Not in the slightest," agreed Lewis. He wondered if that might be remedied. I'll need to collect that syringe from downstairs for analysis. And filch the books. 'Hard to say where magic ends and metaphysics begins, sometimes. There's a chance, at least, he concluded.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

A response didn't come this time, only restrained cries and groans. It only lasts for a minute or two, and eventually, there's total silence, save soft, even breathing.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Weir waited a few moments, then took a chance and turned around to look.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Elias sits asleep on the floor, sharing the same marks that Oliver had.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago • edited

A smile and a small sigh from Lewis.

All's well that ends well.

Still, there was work to be done. He made his way over to Elias, scrupulously careful to avoid the mess on the floor. He did examine it in passing, though. It was mostly clear, and smelled as one would expect. There was, however, a very small variation in color which caught his eye: red...and green.

Christmas mucus, came the uncensored thought. Charming. The blood in it didn't bode well.

I'll pack up Joseph's whole bloody office if need be. But I will find a way to fix this. For if something ill befell Elias, he wagered Richard would be just as thrilled as Weir would be if something happened to Hastie. And that...would not be good.

Lewis reached his patient. He undid the impromptu hairband, then redid the splint and gauze and wrapped the tourniquet around them once again. Next, he moved on to Elias's hand, repeating the process he'd done for Oliver's earlier. He wiped away the sick and blood from him as best he could.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

As Elias remained asleep, Lewis took the opportunity to collect samples of various kinds. First, the smallest snip of hair. Second, the odd-colored sick. Third, the broken syringe in Joseph's office. It took him some time to crawl his way down, but he did it. He also pocketed the partially full syringe Joseph had taken from him earlier. He gathered everything up, along with the books. He ransacked the room, breaking the chair to provide himself with another walking stick. He searched everywhere, and was very, very thorough.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

The key he'd nicked earlier didn't fit the drawer, or anything else, for that matter, but he still had his lockpick in his trouser pocket. He was in truth a mite disappointed the drawer had no false bottom, but moved on. Having found every item worth finding, he used gauze to wrap them all a bundle, even making a strap for ease of carrying. He slung it across his shoulder and made his way to the room of Richard's carnage.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago • edited

Over half a dozen men lay there like so much trash. Throats slit, eviscerated, pulled apart--all manner of gruesome death. Blood everywhere.

Under any other circumstances, Weir would've been proud of him. But--for just a moment--one of the fallen had Hastie's face. Lewis blinked hard, in shock...and saw it was just a trick of the shadows. Yet he was undeniably unsettled.

He made his way around the room, examining every detail, forcing himself to look and contemplate and extrapolate and plan.

Know thy enemy. If it came to that. He sincerely hoped it wouldn't.

He came across a small chip--the one from Richard's stone. Perhaps, if Prince proved trustworthy, he could reattach or meld it. If not, it was still certainly worth a look, to gain a better understanding of what made him...tick. The energy coming off it felt entropic, tempestuous--like Richard and yet...something more. He picked it up, and an odd image-feeling suddenly came upon him: an stone church, overgrown with plant life. The bottom of a stained-glass window. And the distinct impression of being watched. Intrigued, he wrapped the thing in gauze and slipped it into his pocket.

What could he do, in the meantime? Where was Richard? Where was Jasper? He didn't feel comfortable leaving Elias alone, yet he worried his comrades might do something drastic without a voice of reason to guide them.

Silver went with them, though. She seems a decent sort. Weir gave a small chuckle. Silverliné Carew...

For the time being, he decided to go to the door of the workhouse and see if anyone was about. Just before turning the knob, however, he stopped. The distressing thought of Hastie enthroned tugged at his memory.

Lewis shut his eyes.

A moment.

He pulled out his flask and took a nip of absinthe straight, as if it were whiskey. He was tempted to have more, but he didn't know what the next hour held. Reluctantly, he put it back...and opened the door.

see more

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Down the way, he spotted Jasper, Silver, Joseph, and...Arty and Alano and Richard, joining them. His pulse rose and his heart sank as he saw Jasper dangle Joseph over the water. But, thankfully, the latter came to rest on the docks.

"Pardon!" Lewis called.

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Oh. It's you.

Come to join the party?

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

"More I need you to relocate it!" he answered. "There's a barrier up yet!"

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Jasper's eyes narrow and travel to the bound man at her feet.

The old fool wasn't lying.

Jasper: 0 Silver: 1

Not that she'd ever admit it. )

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Where to?!

( That wasn't very loud.

She hoped her voice had carried. )

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Jekyll1886  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

"Back in here!" He gestured in a sweep with his left hand, indicating the workhouse. Not only did its walls provide shelter against the wind, but he hoped having everyone in one place would ensure their mutual survival.

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Okay guys! let's move the troops in ( She eyes Jasper. )

Please be nice to him this time.

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Jekyll1886  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Lewis held the door in anticipation of their arrival.

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Jasper Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

Yeah alright.

( yes dear

She once again hoists Joseph over her shoulder, leading the caravan back inside. )

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

( Silver winces when they cross back over the threshold, eyes focusing intently on Jasper's swaying ponytail.

Carnage in its rawest form.

She shudders to think of what made someone capable of such gruesome savagery. )

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chatterghosts  Silverliné Carew • 3 years ago

Arty soon follows after the group, glancing back towards Richard.

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

Lewis looked to Silver.

"Please be so kind."

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Silverliné Carew  Jekyll1886 • 3 years ago

( Just as gently, Silver slides the strap back on. She daintily- soundlessly- tiptoes behind Jasper, angling her body just so behind that giant blonde mane that she vanishes completely. )

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Silverliné Carew  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago • edited

( Silver's cold clammy hands slowly reach for the guitar, every fiber of her being screaming not to. )

D-don't laugh.

( She strums a quiet C chord, thick vines springing from the ground and covering the gauze in a massive wave of green. )

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Jekyll1886  Jasper Jekyll • 3 years ago

Weir continued his task, but paid mind to Silver as well.

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Hyde without a Jekyll • 3 years ago

(On a side note! Happy 2 month Birthday Oliver! Today I celebrate the first time I heard the orange spoke and found out he was here! So here's to many more years of your sass, red hair, and suspenders!

* pulls campaign popper*

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AND DON'T EVER STOP SINGING! )

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ATasteForVintages  Hyde without a Jekyll • 3 years ago

http://chirb.it/eaCtN5

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Hyde without a Jekyll  ATasteForVintages • 3 years ago

PERFECT!!! :DDDDD

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Catt Hatter  ATasteForVintages • 3 years ago

(Holy beans that was amazing!)

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chatterghosts  Catt Hatter • 3 years ago

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Hyde without a Jekyll  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

(I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!!!!!)

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Catt Hatter  chatterghosts • 3 years ago

( 8D )

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ATasteForVintages  Catt Hatter • 3 years ago

thank >///w////>

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