Role-playing page for pg. 87!

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Role-playing page for pg. 87!

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Mz.Hyde

Mz.Hyde

@disqus_NnFUI30kih 2 years ago

Guess what guys?

I'm on SPRING BREAK!!! WOOOOOOOOOO!

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Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

((Excellent! :D I hope you have a blast!

And happy Spring Break to anyone else who may be on it, too!))

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Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(Mz.Hyde Wanna finish the monster fight scene?)

Mz. Hyde: *Mz. Hyde ran over to another wall to try to keep Catt safe. As the monster approached, Mz. Hyde leapt into the air, making the monster slam into the wall.*

Haha!

Catt Hatter: The force of the collision shook the walls, and, unfortunately, the slippery pipe which Catt was carefully balanced atop of. She began to slide, grabbing at the slick stone with her chained and numb fingers.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

You okay up there?!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"I-I'm good!" she lied, barely managing to wedge herself diagonally between the wall and protruding pipe's edge. The cold had drained her limbs of their strength, she continued to slide slowly towards the icy water.

"You g-get that thing!"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* 'I need to hurry up and take this thing down!' Mz. Hyde thought. But in the moment she had her back turned, the monster hit her with his tail, making her cry out as he knocked her over into the murky water.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"Hyde!" Catt exclaimed, falling further.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* For a moment, the water was deathly calm. Then something slowly rose to the surface, it was Mz. Hyde. And she. Looked. PISSED.*

OK, NOW I'M MAD!

* The monster roared once again and charged. Mz. Hyde dodged the beast as she swam to solid ground. The monster turned back to her and charged, but Mz. Hyde pivoted off a wall and flew through the air, blade drawn. But things took a turn for the worst, as the monster opened its jaws...And ate her in one bite.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Catt screamed and fell into the water, the cuffs biting painfully into her wrists. "Mz. Hyde!" Her voice tore painfully against her throat in the dank air.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* The monster stood there for a moment, as if he was contemplating the flavor of the woman. But then, his stomach started rumbling as he made sounds of discomfort. Suddenly, the monster roared as something sharp stuck through his side. He trashed wildly as it poked more holes in him. As the monster bleed out, the sharp object made a large cut, like a scientist dissecting a specimen. As the monster toppled over, Mz. Hyde crawled out completely intact, dispute being covered in monster salvia, blood, and other various unknown fluids.*

I'm going to need to take a LONG shower after this! I just hope that I don't smell so bad it kills ya Catt! Catt?

* When there was no response from her friend, Mz. Hyde looked over and saw her friend drowning in the sewer water.*

CATT!

* She rushed over and jumped back into the water to try to get Catt's head up above water.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Catt sputtered and gagged, limbs too weak to pull herself out of the dark icy liquid.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

It's alright, I got you! Just breathe! Breathe!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Catt coughed, "Ngh! M-mz. H-hyde? You're o-o-oka-y!"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Yeah, ever heard of an "inside job"?

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"Mhmn." Catt nodded, shivers making her whole body quake.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Okay, listen to me. I'm going to try lifting you back up onto the pipe. I need you to give it you're all and pull yourself back up there while I push.

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Catt gave another shuddering nod and heaved with all the strength her frozen limbs could muster.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* Mz. Hyde pushed Catt onto the sewer pipe as she kicked her legs to keep herself afloat. Odd, she had no idea why her back was hurting so much.*

You're doing great! Just a little more!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Catt found a ledge with her foot and pushed herself up onto the pipe.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* Mz. Hyde heaved herself onto the pipe as soon as Catt balanced herself. *

Well, that was fun.

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Catt just heaved shuddering breaths, her hair plastered to her pale face.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Let's get these off. We only have 15 minutes until you succumb to hypothermia, though being out of the water helps!

* Mz. Hyde blows on her needle and it shrinks back to its normal size. She then begins picking at the lock with it.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"Ng-gain?" Catt mumbled, vaguely aware of a warm sensation beginning to spread in her limbs.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Try rubbing your hands together!

* Mz. Hyde stops picking for a moment and rubs her friend's hands.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Her hands twitched.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* She rubs harder.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

(Hey, Mz. Hyde?) Author asked, floating above them.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

You! How dare you just sit up there and watch us?!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

(You didn't ask for help. Now if you want to get her out of here in time, I suggest you focus on getting those cuffs off.)

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

I know that! I just want to have her be able to feel her hands!

* She goes back to picking the lock, after a few minutes, she opens the first one.*

Yes!

* She starts on the second.*

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Author watched pensively, unable to interfere without invitation, as Catt's shivering gradually slowed.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Shitshitshit!

* Mz. Hyde grew more frantic as she knew that things were getting bad when someone is not shivering.*

C'mon!! C'MON!!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

(Just ask.) Author thought desperately. (All you have to do is ask and I can help.)

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

I don't need anyone's help! I can do this!!

* She jiggles the lock more frantically. Finally, the lock opens.*

Finally! Let's get out of here!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Author gave a victory arm pump and disappeared.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

* Mz. Hyde grabbed Catt and jumped down to solid ground and started running towards a nearby ladder to the surface. *

Just a little longer Catt!

* Suddenly, the water began to rise.*

Shit! The tide's coming in! Catt?

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"Mn?" Catt mumbled. What was Mz. Hyde saying?

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Stay with me! We're going to have to climb this ladder really quickly! Just one more push and you can rest, I promise!

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Catt Hatter  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

When Catt tried to stand, her legs collapsed out from under her.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Shitttttttttt! Okay plan B!

* Mz. Hyde lifted Catt on her back, which made her wince for some reason, bit down on the sleeves of Catt's jacket and climbed. She reached the top, opened the manhole cover and quickly climbed out as the water filled up behind them. *

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Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(Tairais For the scene in the library, Catt's gone off to find a copy of Count of Monte Cristo and Richard is wearing the Hatt.)

Tairais: Richard stepped inside with a grateful smile and paused in the center of the room, closing his eyes and enjoying the scent of paper pages and worn covers.

This, more than anything, felt like home. Felt like the more innocent parts of his childhood. Felt warm and safe and comfortable.

His polite smile turned to more of a peaceful one. If he had looked peaceful standing outside before, now he looked utterly serene, utterly calm.

Catt Hatter: Catt smiled as a warm, tranquil feeling replaced the somewhat awkwardly polite silence. It was really nice to see him so at ease. Even when she had seen him unconscious in the infirmary, he had always seemed restless.

She was glad she could help him feel better, at least for a while.

Leaving him to his browsing, or silent enjoyment, she went off to find the book.

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Tairais  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Richard himself grabbed the nearest book he could find (oddly enough, a copy of the Iliad. Counterproductive to the feeling of peace if he thought about it overly much, but he was very resolutely not doing the very thing) and curled up on a couch, making himself surprisingly small for a man his size.

He was content to be lost in the struggles of other people for a time. It was easier than thinking of his own battles. Easier to be lost in the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus that whatever his relationship with.. anyone was, as of late.

If he had chosen to think of himself, he would realize he was walking towards the same pathway he had working with Kirin, David, and their group. It would end poorly, of that much he would eventually become certain.

But he did not, and so he did not worry, which would perhaps make all the difference, or perhaps make none at all.

Either way, he was quiet and content for the time being.

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Catt Hatter  Tairais • 2 years ago

(I don't know what to have happen next. Q~Q)

Eventually, Catt found a copy of the book and took a seat across from him. She smiled quietly to herself, thinking he looked rather cute all curled up like that.

She opened the book and started reading.

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Tairais  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(( We could just fade and cut to black here and assume they eventually traipsed back with an armful of books to keep Richard company for the rest of his recovery? ))

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Catt Hatter  Tairais • 2 years ago

(That could work. But I had honestly kinda hoped we'd be able to see that scene play out some. Though it might be best if we wanted to avoid sad scenes. Catt would hate to see the pain come back when Richard returns her hatt.)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(I'm getting sad just thinking about it... *sniffles* *is still emotionally distraught from Drunky*)

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Hey, at least you weren't partially behind his demise! T^T)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(*hugs and rubs back* Shhh, it's okay...)

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(*cries*)

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(*Walks in, U-turns, walks quickly away*

Thumbnail

https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/d66254eebe6b6f7ca0eb8990d02acfba4c2977c65e77360cd406f7d8c890a019.gif?w=600&h=225

)

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Catt Hatter  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Get back here! *chases* I've been following the scene with Lewis!)

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(*nope is gone to do more drunky posts*)

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Catt Hatter  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

(*tackle hugs*You're sweet and clever and I love what you've done with him! I'm really happy to have him back!)

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

((GAH! I'd let me go if you want more Drunky! ;) Oh dear.... Oh boy... I just want you lot to know that what happened to Drunky was determined by you guys and ....there are things in motion that will probably come up sometime in the future. But before that happens love him as he is back as someone has to save the world from the Golden Goose! ;) ))

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Catt Hatter  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

(*lets go* Just wanted to say thank you! :D Yay! More story! I plan to love him as long as he's around, ghost or no!)

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

( XD Well I'm glad to see you guys like having him back! Hehe! Glad to hear that! XD )

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Alicia Ghast • 2 years ago

Awww, we have it next week.

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Miss-Dreamerkat • 2 years ago

Mines not till next month.

Have fun!

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Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Mine's next week and I'll be out of town from Thursday to Wednesday so I think I'll miss the update. :(

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Setae • 2 years ago

Nice :)

We don't get that 'till much later. It's 'Easter Break' for us.

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Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

((Yay! Happy spring break! Mines not for a while))

Gemma stalked around the kitchen in an increasingly bad mood as of late. The dance had been a disaster as the buffet table had burst into flames. Gemma had been on a short fuse science then, snapping at people who really meant no harm. On top of that, she'd had no luck finding funds to search for her family, and loud noises kept collapsing her cakes. In short, she was having a terrible time.

((Anyone want to help her plan revenge for the buffet? She's not that great at it, and would probably just literally turn all the food blue on accident... Might be a "tad" dangerous though... as current revenge person is Hela... Help at your own risk!))

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

(Hm, I don't think Catt would be much help. She considers herself a friend of Hela's.

Maybe Sozo would be up for planning revenge? He's kind of apathetic about the dance, but he's been bored lately.)

Sozo was starting to get annoyed with the total lack of structure these people, these 'Rogue Scientists' had. Aside from the occasional organised meal or party, chaos permeated the entirety of their schedules. Doing whatever they wanted, whenever they pleased. No discipline in the lot of them.

It wasn't exactly fun back home, but at least the military had some semblance of order for the Kenyan lad's life, and sometimes he missed it. Not that he'd ever tell you that.

The clock struck noon and he walked into the kitchen to make himself lunch, and paused when he caught sight of Gemma.

Sozo regarded her silently.

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Gemma ran around the kitchen grabbing ingredients and cooking in an organized chaos. Eggs were lined up on the counter before seconds later being cracked into a bowl. A recipe book lay on the counter and was consulted every few seconds. She pulled out bread before throwing it across the room into a bread box and grabbing brown sugar from behind it. She was (yet again) trying to bake a cake, and had yet to notice the newcomer.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"Hey." He said, thinking it wise to announce his presence before crossing the woman's baking line of fire.

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Gemma threw everything she was holding into the air (a cutting board, a knife, and a carrot) in surprise. "Oh hello-OH!" The cutting board smacked onto the counter in front of her, before the knife embedded itself in it and the carrot fell on her head. She winced. Not the best first impression.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"Sorry. You okay?" He made note that this one was easily surprised.

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Gemma took a breath. "Fine, fine. Just been a bit scatter brained recently. Do you want anything?" She gave a hesitant smile.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago • edited

"Lunch. But it looks like the kitchen is occupied." Sozo said, looking around the clearly in-use kitchen.

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Oh... Sorry about that... I can make you something after I put this in the oven," she sad, picking up the carrot, washing it, and beginning to chop it up as she spoke.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"No need. I'll just wait until you are finished." He said, taking a position standing at attention just inside the door.

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Okay," she replied, dumping the now chopped carrots into her bowl, and mixing. After she was finished, she poured the batter into a cake pan.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

The boy just watched her stoically, passively taking in the baking routine.

"What are you making?"

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Carrot cake, hopefully this one will bake." Gemma slipped the cake into the oven and dusted off her hands.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"What would stop it?" He asked curiously.

(By the way, Catt tried to rescue as much of the buffet as she could without being noticed. So the morning after the dance, there was a bunch of "leftover" buffet food in the kitchen without explanation. https://disqus.com/home/cha...

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Oh a variety of things. The most creative one today has been rampaging pygmy elephants. Loud noises collapse cakes you see. And I'm not the best baker." Gemma began putting baking ingredients away.

((Thanks Catt!))

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"Really? Loud noises?" he said in minor disbelief, lending a hand with stowing the supplies.

(She likes helping. ^u^ You're welcome!)

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Background Scientist #37  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Yep. Thanks for the help by the way," she stowed the last item away in its proper position.

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Catt Hatter  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"Cakes are surprisingly fragile." The boy mumbled. "You're welcome. More hands make light work."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago • edited

(Did somebody say "revenge on Hela"?)

* To add to her anger, someone was raiding the fridge. She couldn't really recognize who it was, as she had never seen anyone wear such a frilly pink dress. Never the less, their curly ponytail bobbed as they snacked.*

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Background Scientist #37  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

((In more words, but.... yes.))

Gemma took a shaky breath. Why in the world was there someone in the fridge... "Please don't eat too much, I just went shopping yesterday." she said, a bit more bluntly than originally intended.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

* The figure turned around, and just guess who it was.*

Sorroh, I gawt hungry!

* Mz. Hyde swallowed the food in her mouth.*

Sorry, I got hungry!

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Background Scientist #37  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Gemma sighed and shook her head slightly. "Sorry Mz. Hyde, didn't mean to startle you. I've just been in a bad mood since the ball. Someone there made the buffet go up in flames..." she scowled.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

Yeah...That's why I'm snacking here. Any idea who did it? I bet it was Mr. Luckett, he catches EVERYTHING on fire!

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Background Scientist #37  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"Well you'd lost that bet. It was a girl for one. I only met her once... I think her name was... Ummm... Holly? No... Hetalia? Nah... I give up. Anyway she burned down the buffet."

((Gemma why u be so forgetful...))

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Jekyll1886  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago • edited

"It was Hela," came the casual comment from Lewis as he strode quickly by the kitchen on his way elsewhere. Within a matter of seconds, he'd vanished around the corner of the hall.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

Hela?

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Background Scientist #37  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

(response to Lewis) Gemma's face turned into something that could only be described as 'when did you get here?!?!'

"Ummm... yeah... her," she said, turning back to the blonde.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

Yeah.... I hate her.

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Background Scientist #37  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

"I haven't been to fond of her recently either."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

Stupid bitch.

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Background Scientist #37  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Gemma's mouth twitched into a smile. "Clearly she's not as stupid as she looks, she, after all, found a way to get on nearly everyone's bad side in one night."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

She's still a stupid bitch. She should've never gotten out.

* Mz. Hyde bites into a chocolate covered pretzel with a loud crunch.*

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Catt Hatter  Guest • 2 years ago

(Mysterious Gamer )

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Catt Hatter  Guest • 2 years ago

(Happy to help! ^u^)

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Mysterious Gamer  Guest • 2 years ago

* Velius smiled and blushed then went closer to Matt and kissed him softly, blushing more every second, then he kissed his forehead but didn't said a word. He just looked at him, blushing and smiling*

* John continued to sweat and look worried, shrugging and moving more in the bed. In the dream, John saw himself fixing his clothes before going out. After a few minutes later, the both went out and started to walk down a dark and foggy street. Before reaching to the place that they needed to go, a vagabond hit the human on the head, leaving him unconscious...*

(yeah! But don't make her interfere, John is discovering his past! >u<)

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Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(( Catt Hatter Helen Jekyll A continuation from last week's RP page, itself a continuation from the Valentine's Dance, complete with most recent response: ))

Catt Hatter Hela Hyde • 11 hours ago

"Ahh, that makes sense." Inwardly, she felt a dull ache in her chest that dropped her gaze to the shimmering surface of her tea. If only she could find Helen during those times, she missed her so much. "Does, does she think of this place as her home?"

((And it's Helen's turn.))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"What, this place?" Hela said with a curl of her lips. "Like Hell she does. Poor miserable doc would be back at her parents home before you could blink, if given the chance." She gave a laugh, her eyes still icy despite the sounds warmth.

That'll teach you to ask about Helen...

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Catt thought for a minute, quietly sipping her tea. "What's it like, having parents?"

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Hela cocked her head to the side before shrugging, examining the little roses on the side of her empty teacup. "You're asking the wrong person. I've never met Helen's parents. Or hand any of my own."

I'll have to buy a some flowers like these sometimes... They're beautiful.

She thought, setting the cup down on the now emptied plate of pasteries.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Really? Sorry to hear that." Catt wondered if Hela thought not having parents was a good thing. At the very least it would explain some of her behaviour.

"Would you like more tea?" She gestured to the cup.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Oh, sure."

Hela leaned back against the wall.

"It's a bit of a shame we never met... They made my first couple months a living Hell and I'd gladly thank them for that."

She paused, the corners of her lips twitching into a grin.

"Do you think skinning them alive would have been a proper enough gift to show my appreciation?"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Catt took and refilled the cup, frowning in thought. "I don't think so, they wouldn't be able to appreciate it for very long. What did they do to make your first months so miserable?" She handed Hela the fresh cup of tea.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Hela took the tea and waved the tendrils of steam rising from it away with a hand. "Apparently Helen started acting strangely after I was created and they got concerned or something and gave her this talk about being a dignified young lady."

She rolled her eyes at the phrase.

"Anyways, this got the doctor all spooked and if it weren't for the cravings driving her half mad, I probably would've stayed trapped within her mind, doomed to fade away."

But you weren't strong enough, were you, Helen?

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Yeah, I've heard that HJ7 is addictive." Catt nodded, refreshing her own cup. "For what it's worth, I'm glad I got to meet you." Even if our first encounter was, less than pleasant. She thought.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Honestly?" Hela crinkled her nose, peering at Catt with narrowed but bright eyes. "Why is that?"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Why?" The question caught her off guard. "Well, ever since you showed up, things haven't been boring. I daresay there hasn't been a dull moment since!" Catt briefly wondered if she was over selling it, but only briefly.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Ah... so I'm entertainment then..."

The brightness faded, her attention focused on her tea as she took a slow sip.

"Not what I was expecting, but... I can't say I'm surprised, Hatter."

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"You're not entertainment, you're not a side show, that's me." Catt said hurriedly. "I, I meant that, um... you're interesting? I enjoy your company! And, I can learn from you too. I-, oh this isn't helping is it?" Bother, she didn't mean to make her feel like a thing to be used to break up monotonous days. That was just a by-product of her presence!

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela pressed her lips in a firm line, fighting the wave of glee that rose and threatened to manifest itself in a laugh. Her eyes still lowered and half closed, she responded.

"Oh no, don't stop on my account. Feel free to keep telling excuse after excuse, fumbling over your own words and lies. At least then you'll feel a little better, but I...?"

She raised her icy eyes to glare into Catt's own pools of warmth.

"I know a monster when I see one, mask or no."

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"I'm not lying!" Catt protested desperately.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Then explain why in your dream, the very creation fueled by subconscious thoughts and desires, you relished the sounds of my screams as you beat me into the ground!" Hela snapped and set her cup aside, rising to her feet in a sudden motion that shook the bed.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

"Th-that, you had just shot me!" Catt scrambled for something that would make sense, backing up to the desk. "It was only once over a year ago! I don't feel that way anymore! Assuming I ever really did!"

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Hela let out a hiss of fury, pressing forward to close the distance between them.

"You promised me, Catt! You were supposed to be different from all the other d*** people in this world, but you lied! You lied like everybody else has!"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"I didn't lie!" Catt held up her hands defensively, cornered against the desk. "Th-the dream happened before I made the promise! I haven't broken it! I wouldn't hurt someone like that!" Thoughts and frantic emotions clambered for center stage in her mind. Don'tcrydon'tcrypleasebelievemeshehatestearsdon't cry!

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Frantic distress, almost bordering on panic. An undercurrent of resignation. Fear and worry, almost to the point of tears.

All these emanated from Catt like a beacon as she retreated from Hela, who continued to press closer.

Not good.

Weir whipped out the key and turned it quickly in the lock, all pretense at stealth gone.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"No more excuses! You're not fooling anyone, unless you're stupid enough to believe this yourself!"

Hela snatched Catt's raised wrists with both hands, clamping her fingers and nails into the tender flesh while she pushed her down against the desk. She leaned over her and bared her teeth, her eyes flickering with both triumphant and irritation at the sight of tears.

"You're too weak and helpless as usual, Hatter... you can't do anything, not even help yourself." Her voice dropped to a harsh whisper.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"I know." Catt whispered, tears finally escaping the confines of her eyelids.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis threw open the door.

"HELA!" he thundered.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Both girl's heads snapped towards Lewis as the door slammed open.

Hela let out a cry of fright, going rigid as she dug her nails deeper into Catt's skin. She began to tremble and draw back, attempting to hide behind the hatted girl she held.

"Y-You... n-not a-again... p-please..."

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"D-dr. Weir!" Catt sat up, blocking his view of Hela.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Hela, get away from Catt," he said with a snap of his fingers, and pointed toward the bed.

"Catt, you're with me," he encouraged with a gesture for her to join him. "Come on."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"I-it's okay! It's okay!" Catt said hurriedly standing up and holding out her hands. "I'm fine, she's okay!"

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"H-He n-nearly k-killed m-me b-before..."

whimpered Hela. She retreated a few steps away from Catt's turned back, hunching over as her arms wrapped around her stomach.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"She is bally well far from 'okay'," he said to Catt. "In point of fact, she's right out of line. She turned on you like a mad dog."

He turned to Hela.

"Stop tryin' to manipulate Catt with your play-actin'," he spat. "You were the one 'bout to attack her. Ya can't play the bully and the victim all in one breath."

He addressed the Hatter once more:

"Let's go, Catt. She needs to be alone and think about what she's done."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

I did antagonis her though... Catt thought, giving Lewis a concerned, almost fearful look. "You're not going to hurt her, are you?"

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela cringed and swiftly lowered her gaze when she was addressed, biting down on her bottom lip. Shuffling her feet, she tried to listen to them over the thudding of her own heartbeat.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"She's to be left alone in her room. As soon as you leave. With me," he reiterated, calming visibly. "And, in point of fact, Catt, we need to talk. About you and Hela."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Oh crud. "Oh. Okay then." Catt turned to Hela. "See you later, okay?"

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela gave a brief nod, her gaze flickering up to meet Catt's before returning to the ground.

"Y... Yeah..."

They must be leaving the tea. She guessed. More for me, then.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh, and I trust you enjoyed your dinner, Hela," stated Lewis with a wry half-smile. "If so, that's good." The smile vanished. "Because you're not getting breakfast."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela stayed stock still for a long moment, even as Catt flinched at the statement.

"...I beg your pardon, Dr. Weir? I must've misheard you..."

She raised her head, her icy eyes narrowed to slits.

"I could've sworn you said I wouldn't be eating tomorrow morning."

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Sensing the building storm, Catt quickly grabbed the tea tray and shuffled towards the door. Making sure to keep an eye on both Lewis and Hela.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"You originally weren't supposed to have dinner," stated Lewis, as if he were explaining things to a child. He moved aside for Catt to pass by with the tray. Once she was behind him, he backed over the threshold, making sure to stay between her and Hela, just in case things went poorly. "But you have. So now you must skip breakfast instead. Repercussions, Hela. Remember." He quickly shut and and locked the door.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela edged closer with teeth gritted, crying out in rage as the door shut and charging towards it, turning so she slammed the side of her shoulder into the wood. She gasped at the unexpected pain and hissed softly, grabbing the throbbing limb.

"God d*** you to Hell, you spineless, two faced monster! This is insane! You can't just leave me in here to starve!"

She hollered at the top of her lungs, slamming a fist against the door and merely gaining another pain to match the first.

"If I am to be treated as a prisoner, you still have to feed me!"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Catt winced at the impact, making the teacups rattle on the tray. It was her fault.

Hela was going to miss breakfast, the most important meal of the day, because she had tried to help out her friend.

Some friend I am. She thought dejectedly as she moved off towards the kitchen. Momentarily having forgotten that Lewis had wanted to talk to her.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Ah, Catt," said Lewis. He looked at the tray. "Come, set that down, won't you?" he asked, and indicated a nearby end table upon which she could place it temporarily.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Huh? Oh." Catt halted, pulled from her thoughts. "I was going to go clean it right away, so the tea doesn't have a chance to stain."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Very well," replied Weir. "But please do return. It's vital that we speak before you see Hela again."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Having received no response to her yelling, Hela fell silent for a moment. Then, all at once, the air was filled with a hair-raising scream, the sound of someone in abosolute agony. The cry died off after a few moments but was followed by another and another, each just as bad as the first and with no sign of an end in sight.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Catt winced again at the screams, hanging her head. "Y-yeah. Did you want anything from the kitchen?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis winced at the first shriek, but elected to ignore it.

"I doubt there's anything left," he said sadly. "Gemma and Rachel worked all day on the food for the party, and aren't set to go shopping for fresh supplies until early tomorrow morning. Still, I appreciate the thought."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Not even coffee or tea? I have my own stock."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Oh, tea would be lovely," he owned. "Would you?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Certainly!" Catt offered a tired smile, and returned a few minutes later with a fresh, but smaller tea tray set for one.

This one was decorated with lilacs and silver trim. Next to the kettle, sat a small plate of impossibly recognisable treats from the dance's buffet.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh. My. How--?" Lewis began to ask, but thought better of it. "Never mind," he said, breaking into a smile. "Thank you." He felt his salivary glands activate as he took in the delightful aroma, and his stomach gave a low rumble. "Oh. Pardon," he apologized at the undignified sound. "Shall we? There's a sitting room not far."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Time travel." She said smiling and giving a thumbs up. She looked exhausted, but was trying to hide it best she could. "And yeah, I kinda figured you'd be hungry after all that."

Catt followed him to the sitting room and set the tray down next to his chair. Taking her own seat across from him, she drew a deep breath before asking,

"So, what had you wanted to talk about?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

"Hela, actually," he said, putting the sugar in and pouring a cup of tea. "I hope you'll not think me rude, but I couldn't help but overhear."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"Thought so." Catt sighed, a fresh wave of guilt crashing down on her shoulders making her spine curve into a slouch against the chair.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Catt..." asked Lewis, "what's the matter?" He'd been about to lift his cup, but instead stopped to look at her.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"I wanted to make her feel better, but instead I just made her angry and managed to lose her breakfast too!" Catt sighed again. "I just wanted to undo as much of the damage as I could. Let her know she wasn't alone, that there is someone who will look out for her no matter what. But I think I made things worse somehow."

She pulled off her Hatt and set it on her lap. Reaching in, she pulled out a pastry and took a bite. Not even the sweetness of Rachel's cooking was able to lift her mood.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Lewis allowed himself a substantial swig of tea before continuing.

"Ah," he said, finally. "I see. So, is it fair to say you'll always look out for Hela...no matter what?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"As much as I can, yes." Catt nodded. She really wasn't interested in finishing the snack, but it would be a waste not to. "I just want her to be happy, y'know? I just want everyone to be happy."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Short-term, fleeting pleasure, or long-term fulfillment and survival?" asked Weir. "If it came down to one or the other," he clarified.

He dipped the biscuit in his tea and took a bite.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt's eyes snapped up. "Why would her survival be in jeopardy?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Please answer the question, Catt," said Lewis, dunking the rest of the biscuit, "and I'll happily tell you." He finished the rest of it, then took another swig of tea.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"I don't know the difference." Catt answered, worry evident on her face. "Now what makes you think she's in danger?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh," said Lewis, frankly not expecting that reply. She was being perfectly honest. He polished off his cup of tea, put more sugar in the cup, and poured himself another.

"Short-term pleasure is just that. It feels good in the moment, but may not necessarily be good in the long term. For example, playing cards instead of working may feel very fun--very good. But in the long run, it may lose one one's job. Which is not good."

He took a sip from his cup.

"Conversely, the actions necessary for long-term fulfillment and survival may not feel very good in the short-term. But they are necessary for good in the long term. Working one's job, for example, may not feel very fun. But it provides food, a place to live, and, potentially, a sense of pride in one's own efforts--all good things. More to the point, things which ensure one's survival. Does all this make sense to you, Catt?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Now she was confused, a yawn forced itself into her mouth before she could answer.

"Yeah, but what does that have to do with Hela being in danger?" She blinked blearily. Had that doll always been on the extra chair?

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Hela is on the path to ruin and death," said Lewis bluntly. He followed Catt's gaze and saw the doll. He elected to ignore it.

"Dr. Lanyon has put her under my care as a last-ditch solution. But if I can't treat her properly--if my efforts at shaping her behavior and teaching her respect are undermined--then she will perish, mark my words. As will Helen. I've seen this dynamic play out time and again."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Everyone dies. Came an unwelcome thought, flitting across Catt's mind like smoke. "So," she said slowly. "She's in danger, from herself?"

Staring at the doll made her head feel funny, so she looked back to Lewis, vaguely realizing they both had a similarly tailored vest.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

"Precisely. I'm currently trying to teach her to respect boundaries. And that her actions have repercussions. For example, because she set the buffet on fire, thus ensuring others would not eat tonight, it is only fitting--as a natural consequence of her action--that she ought not eat tonight. However, you brought her dinner. Which I know comes from a place of caring, but so does mine. And mine is in the interest of her long-term needs. If she's ever to function in society, she has to learn that actions have repercussions. If she can't, it will end badly. And she may take others with her when she dies."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

That could happen anyway. She shook off the idea. "About that, the buffet." She yawned again. "When I went back, I grabbed as much as I could. So, while it wouldn't be as grand, there is something left for everyone. I-if, uh, if they wanted to try again." Catt waved her hand to indicate her half-eaten pastry.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"That's very thoughtful of you Catt," said Lewis with a smile which bordered on bittersweet. "Perhaps you could leave what you managed to save in the kitchen. I'm afraid the party's a bust."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Even if I went back to just after the fire was out?" she asked sadly, stifling another yawn behind her Hatt.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"I'm afraid so. So much of an affair like this one is down to the mood or spirit of it. Which Hela extinguished just as surely as the sand smothered the flames."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt's eyes dropped to the floor. While she knew time travel couldn't fix everything, it was still frustrating and disappointing when she encountered things she couldn't change. "Bother. Why sand anyway? Why not water?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Not all fires can be extinguished with water. A grease fire, for example. But sand quenches everything. It's a common precaution, given the prevalence of tallow candles."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Oh." Catt nodded, abruptly and awkwardly coming to the end of her train of thought. She took another bite of her pastry.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Coming back to the previous point, though," said Lewis, after taking a sip of his tea, "I need you, as a true friend to Hela, to be on board with me as far as her treatment goes. If you feel inclined to bring her food, kindly run it by me first. Should you wish to go with her on an outing, get my approval. We need to make certain such actions will help, rather than hurt, Hela--and Helen--in the long term. Otherwise..." He shook his head. "Can I count on you to help me in this, Catt? It's for her sake and everyone else's."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt's eyes flicked around the carpet's pattern. There were so many things that could go wrong here, by either agreeing or disagreeing. If she disagreed, she would be crossing Dr. Weir. The man who had helped her out of a coma, and also someone not to be trifled with. It would be very bad to have him as an enemy, she'd rather be friends.

But if she agreed, even if it was for the best, wouldn't it be a form of betrayal to her already friend Hela? And who knows what Hela would to Helen in retaliation! What if she never got to see her again?

"But, she'll think I betrayed her." Her voice felt tight. "I promised I wouldn't do that, that I wouldn't hurt her."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"If you're not on board, you will have betrayed her, Catt," said Lewis sadly. "Whereas if you help me, she'll merely think you have. Which is more important?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"But if she thinks I betrayed her, she might never let me see Helen again." Confound these tears. Why couldn't she just talk like a normal person?

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"It's not as if you're seeing Helen much as it is," Lewis observed. "And if I'm allowed to treat them properly, you'll see Helen much more often in future. My aim is to restore the balance between the two." A pause. "Do you know, we're almost too late? I've only ever met Helen once. Do you want to lose her forever? Because that's where this is headed, if my efforts keep getting undermined." There was no anger in his voice, merely a sorrow bordering on resignation.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Nothing brings people together like a common enemy. Now, she really didn't like the sound of that idea. It was uncomfortably solid.

"How do we know that your method is the best option? The best way to win her over?" Catt asked as yet another scream came through the walls. "And would it be at all possible for me to get her something like a lozenge in the morning? Her throat is going to be sore."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"My goal isn't to 'win her over'; it's to heal her. To restore the balance before she enters a death spiral. This is no game; it's a matter of life and death. By way of analogy: My patient may not like the bitter medicine I bring, but I'm trying to save her life. If you substitute a sugar pill instead, she may enjoy the sweetness of the moment, but she'll only grow sicker in the long run. Which won't be very long, frankly, if this keeps up. So, no. No lozenge--she's the one who chose to shriek on and on. And no breakfast. Should Hela chance to sleep through breakfast anyway, she'll get no lunch. She must miss one meal, in order to learn some empathy for the people she so thoughtlessly wronged. And to learn that actions have consequences." A pause as he collected himself. "As to my qualifications, the only Hyde who ever managed to survive and fit into the world, to make something of himself, had my help. The others--who didn't--perished."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt sniffled. "Life is uncomfortably unfair." She grumbled, throat still tight and aching. "C-can I at least visit her? I, I won't bring anything."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"It is, at that," Lewis agreed. "Of course you may visit. You are, after all, her friend. But she is not allowed to harm you. If she does, the visits cease. Actions and consequences. And the hope that she'll be a better friend to you."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Just like that?" She asked, growing worried. "One attack and I can't see her anymore?"

This was troubling, especially considering how often Hela tended to lash out at people when antagonised. And considering the lack of food in the morning, the perceived betrayal would most likely result in an attack. Not that she would blame Hela for that. It sure felt like a betrayal from this end.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"At least for a little while," Weir clarified. "Once I see a change in her behavior, the 'visits' can resume. Hela needs to learn that she, too, needs people. And that she mustn't treat them poorly if she wishes to enjoy their company."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"So, like a week? That makes sense." Catt nodded, tears subsiding. She wished that doll would stop staring at her. "I think I've heard of that method being used rather, effectively somewhere." She said softly.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"It may be a week. It may be longer or shorter. It all depends upon Hela's behavior. This rests upon her and her decisions about how to respond. As long or as short as it takes." He sipped the tea.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"She's not going to take it well." Catt went to return her Hatt to her head, and realised there was still the remains of a pastry in her hand. She stuffed it in her mouth and replaced her Hatt, trying not to yawn through her mouthful.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"I know," he admitted. "I expect she won't. But we'll all get through it, and come out better on the other side...so long as the treatment is consistent."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"I hope so. By the way," she asked, remembering something Hela had said. "Did you actually, attack her before?"

It was an uncomfortable question, but she wasn't about to sign on with someone who had threatened her friend's life. As much of a double standard as that might be.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"No," he stated truthfully, looking Catt earnestly in the eye. "In typical fashion, Hela's exaggerating in an attempt to manipulate you. I merely restrained her, to keep her from doing harm."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt relaxed a little. "Yeah, she is a fearful one though. I think she actually believed what she was saying about you nearly killing her. Having such low faith in people is what I'd been trying to fix by always being there for her." She explained. "I hope that makes sense."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"It makes sense, and I fully understand your reasoning," stated Lewis. "I'll fix her faith in people. In time. If she asks why you can't bring her things as you typically do, feel free to place the blame on me. You're only refraining at my behest, after all. Doctor's orders. That way she shouldn't fault you."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Thank you." She said, looking somewhat stunned. "That's, really considerate of you."

Was this how normal compromises worked? It felt weird to be treated like an equal by someone older than her, let alone an authority figure.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Fair is fair," he replied with a nonchalant shrug, then finished his second cup of tea and set it down on the tray. "Speaking of which...now that we've addressed the subject of greatest concern, is there anything further you'd like to talk about with me? Be it related to Hela or otherwise."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Um..." Catt looked over to the doll in the extra chair. It looked unnervingly like Dr. Weir as it stared back at her with it's green glass eyes. "Is, that something I should be worried about? I think it's following me." She said, pointing.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Ah. That," said Lewis, his mouth turning down at the corners as he beheld the thing. He shook off troubling emotions and resumed a neutral expression. "We first encountered it in your mindscape, Catt. The interior of your soul or psyche. Do you mind if I try something with it?" he asked.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Uh, I guess not?" She said, confused. "What did you want to try?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"To pick it up," he said simply, and rose to do just that.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Oh, okay." Admittedly she was interested to see what would happen. Seeing the thing in every room had left her too unnerved to try touching it.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Weir went over to the "doll" and made the attempt. His hand passed right through. He didn't seem surprised.

He took a moment to concentrate, aligning his energy to a slightly different vibration.

He tried again.

"Success!" he declared, and brought the thing to Catt. "It's a thought-form," he informed her.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

A disconcerting charge radiated up her back as he brought the thing closer. "A what?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"The Tibetans call it a 'tulpa', but 'thought-form' is more to the point. It's a form or image or sound or what-have-you created by the mind. As you were holding this one," he indicated the so-called doll, "when you left your soul's interior to return to the waking world, I think you simply brought it back with you accidentally. It now exists on the astral plane. You can see it, because you created it and it's effectively part of you. I can see it because I was in there with you. And hold it. I imagine you can as well."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt made a thoroughly disconcerted noise deep in her throat, and her expression concurred. She leaned back in the chair, away from the strange entity.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Lewis noticed her reaction and placed the tulpa back in the chair.

"It's only your own thoughts, Catt," he reassured, taking a seat again. "Nothing more, nothing less than a part of your self."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"That-that's weird. Parts of me are usually attached." She really didn't know what to make of this new concept. "Am I supposed to do anything about it? If it's a kind of hallucination, should I try to get rid of it somehow? Or would that be rude?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"I imagine if you could bring yourself to hold it, you'd simply reabsorb it, as it would return to the interior of your psyche."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Catt still looked uncomfortable, her eyes flicked between Dr. Weir and the thought-projection. "And that would be a good thing, right? I'm sorry if I seem, put off by the idea. It's just, very, very new."

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"In the interest of becoming more fully yourself, yes. Though whether it feels good to do so would greatly depend upon which of your thoughts and emotions went into creating it. And, there's no need for apologies. My field of study is a strange one, I'll warrant," he admitted with a laugh.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Aren't most of our fields strange by conventional standards?" Catt asked with a half-smile. She looked back over to the doll. "What was I doing with it?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"True," Weir agreed. To her question, he replied, "Holding it. You had a collection of such dolls, each a different person you know in the waking world. You were playing with one which looked like Mz. Hyde when I first came across you."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Oh. How did you find me?" At this point, Catt was mostly just trying to remember as much as she could, and try to figure out how this all worked. Maybe she'd be able to use this information in the future?

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"I fell through darkness and into a room whose doors and windows had been covered over with wallpaper. You know, Catt," he remarked, as the thought occurred to him, "that doll over there might be your memories of our journey."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"That, would make sense..." Catt stared at the doll, trying to make up her mind. "What happened?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Rather a lot," said Lewis. "Though we did eventually leave the room. And you showed quite a bit of personal fortitude when you held fast to merge two aspects of yourself. You even got us out, back to the waking world." He smiled. "I said it before, and I'll say it again, Catt: I'm proud of you."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

An unexpected 'urg' sound lept out of Catt's throat before she could stop it. She really didn't know what to make of the complement. She never did, but it felt good, she guessed. Made the inside of her chest feel weird though.

"Thank you." She said in a rather small voice, quickly changing the subject a moment after. "Um, what do you mean 'merged?'"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"You integrated your current self--the one who remembers only the past five years or so--with an aspect of your previous self, the one from your life before. A very admirable first step."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"A which from my what-now?" And back to confused.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Perhaps you ought to get some sleep, Catt," Lewis suggested. "These concepts will likely make more sense to you when you've rested."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Yeah," she said, lost from the subject. "That sounds like a good plan. Maybe we can talk more about this later, after I've had some sleep?"

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Certainly. Sleep well, Catt. And thank you once more for the tea tray. I'll get Rachel to clean it; you really should go on to bed."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Yeah." Catt said through a yawn. "I'll do that. G'night Dr. Weir."

She shuffled her way out of the room, and after quickly dropping off the salvaged treats in the kitchen, she made her way to bed and slept until noon the next day.

After which she apologised for missing morning sword practice with Mz. Hyde.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Goodnight, Catt," he returned.

Once he'd felt her presence retreat far enough away, he went quietly by Hela's room again, then came back to the sitting room. He didn't sense any other conscious lodgers nearby.

Good. That's for the best.

"Author," he said quietly. "Can you hear me?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I'm here. What's up?) Author said, suddenly standing behind the one chair, arms crossed and leaning on the back.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"I've something I need to ask you," stated Lewis. "It's rather important, I'm afraid."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Oh bother. It sounds like I'm in trouble.) They said, suddenly uncomfortable.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Why does everyone assume that with me?" he said softly, to himself. He sighed.

"I simply need to ask you about the bracelet. What can you tell me of it?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I think it's because you can be rather disciplinary at times, and frankly it's intimidating.) Author said, resting their head in one hand.

(As for the bracelet, I'm assuming you mean the one I gave Helen, it keeps the wearer from being recognised as long as they avoid eye contact, and cannot be stolen. After a certain distance, it teleports back to her pocket.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"So, you intended the bracelet for Helen..." he echoed. "That makes more sense. Why do you allow it to function for Hela as well?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I, didn't think far enough ahead, so it's mechanics were based on the body. And, they're kinda the same person.) They explained sheepishly.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"If that's the case, could you kindly get rid of it so it doesn't interfere with my affairs? I'm doing my best to help them both, but at times I feel like Sisyphus."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I don't know what a Sisyphus is, but I'm afraid not. The rule was that it can't be stolen, based on her perception. It applies to me too. If you can convince Helen to give it to you, that's different.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"'The rule'?" he repeated, a curious smile spreading. "Interesting. Who made this rule, if I may ask?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I did.) They said frankly. (And what kind of person doesn't even respect their own rules?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"And yet by following it, you'll be breaking our pact," he stated bluntly. "You're not to interfere in my affairs. Hela is my affair. As is her treatment. As is Hastie's safety, which she threatens, doubly so if no one can recognize her until it's too late."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(The bracelet, is it's own thing now, and also was made before the non-interference agreement. At this point doing anything would be interfering further.) Author wasn't interested in being hazed. (If you want, I can make something to protect Mr. Lanyon from Hela, or any attack if you wish. But you would have to ask.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh? Have you made a pact not to interfere with Helen and Hela as well? I was unaware," said Lewis, warring against himself to try to keep sarcasm out of his tone. It wouldn't do to upset Author, and he expected better of himself in any case.

He closed his eyes, took in a breath, and let it out.

He rubbed his temple as he opened them again. Weariness was patent on his face, his energy ebbing.

I am so very tired.

"What the hell do I do with you, Author?" he asked miserably, at a loss.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(No, not with them. They are merely the subject of our non-interference agreement. The bracelet was built, and now runs like a computer program. If you convince Helen to give it to you, you could give it to me and I could get rid of it. But as things stand, it can't be stolen or forcibly taken.) They said as soothingly as they could. Man, dealing with people and concrete rules was difficult. (As for what to do with me, I'd rather be friends and help out in any way I can. That bracelet was made because Catt was scared and lonely in the hospital wing after the second surgery, and really wanted to see her friend Helen. So I made that possible without just breaking everything and zapping her into the room.) Author sighed. They really did want to be friends, but without being able to use their power to help, they really didn't know what to do.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Very well," said Lewis, coming back to a shadow of his typical demeanor. "I'll speak with Helen." He settled into a nearby chair. "But first...I'll sleep," he declared, leaning back and closing his eyes.

Someone has to keep an eye on Hela...

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I can do that if you wanted to get some actual rest, maybe a change of more comfortable clothes.) Author offered. (You've had a rough time of it lately.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"As tempting as the offer is, Author," said Lewis, opening his eyes, "I'll see after her. She is my patient. I owe her no less." So saying, he closed his eyes once more, and began to slowly drift off to sleep.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(What, just going to leave me here?) Author thought, not sure if they should be offended by such a dismissal or not. They stayed and watched until Lewis was asleep.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Eventually, Lewis's soul slowly rose up and out of his sleeping body. In astral form, he surveyed his surroundings and beheld...

Author. Huh, he thought-spoke. 'Thought I felt your presence.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

(Well you never said I could leave.) Author said with a smile. (Plus I thought it might be a bit boring, watching Hela spaz all night.) They drifted up off the floor to meet Lewis at eye level. (Hope you don't mind company.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

The astral equivalent of a laugh.

You may whenever you're so inclined, then. No need to stand on ceremony. His form seemed to smile. Shall we?

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Let's.) They nodded, still smiling and drifted after Lewis. (Y'know, I kinda thought you hated me.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Author, if I hated you, I'd have sought to destroy you by now.

Lewis paused. The thought had become speech automatically; they were, after all, in the astral plane.

Well, that's not going to go over well, came the next thought.

S***, came the third.

Anyhow, he thought-spoke, moving on, rest assured I don't hate you. I simply can't stand dislike interference.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Author laughed with delight at the initial idea, and the following fluster. (Honestly, I'd be curious to see if that were possible.)

It was a genuine curiosity, somewhat unsettling how not-scared they were, but Author figured it was better than being offended.

(That's fair. I hate feeling my efforts are going to waste too, or make no difference to begin with.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Precisely, agreed Lewis. You understand, then. That's a relief.

He emoted that they should go to Hela's room.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Why do you think I find it so frustrating that you won't accept my help? I feel blooming useless.) They nodded and followed his lead.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

And I'd feel superfluous if I did. Quite the conundrum we're in here...

Astral travel was fairly speedy; they reached Hela's room in a jiff.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

The room looked as a war had been waged within the confines of its walls. Helen's wardrobe laid toppled on its side, its contents spilling out onto the ground. Ash had been thrown about the room and now covered the carpet and desk. The bookshelves, once decorated with a modest collection of books, now stood almost completely barren. The books were now strewn across the carpet with torn out pages like confetti amongst them.

Curiously, some books had survived whatever event that destroyed their brethren and still rested on their shelves.

Hela, sitting in the midst of all this damage upon the fallen armoire, stuffed torn pages and clothing into one of Helen's buttoned up shirts. Her fury had ebbed for now, and she worked silently on her task with a furrowed brow.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Author let out a low whistle. (She really did a number on it, didn't she? I wonder what she's making. Shame about the books though.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Temper, temper... chided Lewis silently, with regard to Hela. Quite the tantrum you've thrown.

Turning his attention to Author, he replied:

She may well be building a dummy to put in the bed. Which would mean she plans to escape. I'm curious how. Let's watch and see, shall we?

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Oh, yes. Let's!) Author grinned.

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Catt Hatter  • 2 years ago

(I didn't know Hela could sew.) Author said intrigued.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela continued her little project at the desk, hunching over the ash dusted surface while she sewed the two halves together in what began as even, narrow stitches that soon became wider and sloppier as the task grew dull.

"Doesn't have to be perfect..." She muttered and tied off the thread.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

It appears she can, when necessary. Helen knows how to sew, I take it? asked Lewis as they continued to watch.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I honestly don't know. Maybe? Hav'ta ask.) They shrugged. (So, dummy or punching bag?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Dummy, I'd wager.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela set the needle down and bit her lip, drumming her fingers lightly on the desk.

"Body's done, now... A head. Yeah. Head and face."

She rose from her seat, grabbing the scissors then a quill from a desk drawer, tucking a bottle of ink under her arm. She seated herself on the ground and put her tools aside, filling another shirt with the pages and clothing nearby, shaping it into a rather oblong ball.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Depending on what she's planning, this will most likely not work. I mean, where's it's nose?) Author asked with a slight chuckle. (But really, what is she planning?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

I imagine she'll put it in bed and pull the covers over it to make it look as if she's asleep. So no one will bother her or suspect she's escaped.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Except for the witnesses. And what's she gonna do for hair?) They asked rhetorically, grinning.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Having created the head, Hela unscrewed the cap on the ink and dipped the tip of her quill into it, carefully drawing an angry face on the makeshift head. A smile tugged on her lips and she blew on the lines she had made, her breathing shaky as she nearly laughed.

She tied the head to the rest of the body once the ink had dried and picked up the quill once more, drawing a single vertical line about the length of her thumb on the chest of the dummy: the start of a letter.

All at once, the color drained from her face as the tip of the quill hovered over the middle of the line.

Last time I... Would it be safe...?

She shook her head to dispel the thoughts.

Of course it's safe. He wouldn't kill me over this little thing... It'll serve him right, taking away my meals.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis sensed the trepidation and indignation coursing through Hela...and gave the astral equivalent of a belly laugh.

'Seems I've made quite the impression! He presumed she'd soon write his name.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Author first raised an eyebrow at Hela, then was straight up surprised by Lewis' reaction. (That you have. The poor girl is scared for her life. Well done. Can't say I'm a fan of the idea, but if you meant to do that, well done!)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Why does everyone assume the worst of me? came the thought, unbidden and fleeting.

You have me all wrong, Author. I delight in how ridiculous she's made me look in effigy! It's so preposterous it's hilarious! He couldn't help but be amused.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Oh! Sorry.) Author said somewhat sheepishly. (I didn't realise she was making you!)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Hela pressed the quill tip back to fabric and scratched out the remainder of the name at a snails pace.

H A S T I E

L A N Y O N

She let out a long, pent up breath, setting the quill aside as the tension drained from her taunt muscles.

"That just leaves the noose..."

She breathed with the corner of her lips turning upwards with relief. The worst part was over with.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

You wouldn't think it would be possible for one's face to lose it's colour while on the astral plane, but that's exactly what happened as Author fearfully turned to look at Lewis.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Any semblance of mirth drained out of Lewis as the shadows crept in. For a moment--just a moment--his astral form changed to the void-black nothing Prince had encountered in the mindscape. The spiritual equivalent of a chill breeze and the baleful scent of blood washed over Author and Hela both.

But it was, after all, only a moment. And it passed.

Lewis's form vibrated back into its typical guise, as if he'd shaken off the negative emotions like a dog shaking free of the water. He cleared his mind, and was able to look on the scene before him with a more objective view.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(That, that right there,) Author said, a terrified shadow lining their words. (Is why you can be easy to think the worst of. You're the scariest person I know.)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Hela had begun to retrieve more of her rope, stopping dead in her tracks as a sickening presence loomed over her, turning her blood to ice. Before she even had the chance to think, it vanished in the next insant, leaving her to lean heavily against the desk to lessen the weight on her trembling legs.

"What... the Hell was that...?"

She whimpered and cast a quick glance around her room. Nothing had changed.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

My...apologies, Author. Though still human, my work has...exposed me to the underlying reality of the cosmos. And of myself. Certain unalterable truths which change one to learn. I have to take care not to let the worst bleed through. In point of fact, this nearly happened at Catt's party, when I first encountered...well. You know.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Yeah.) Author nodded. (I know. And in total honesty, I want to know more, but I don't think I still would if I already knew.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

You're correct on that account. As the saying goes, "Ignorance is bliss."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I wouldn't go that far. I happen to enjoy learning.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Frankly, Author, you can't handle these truths. Hell, I barely survived them. After dying several times... Were he in his body, he would've been more delicate in his phrasing. There was no malice, however. He simply called the truth as he saw it, given all the factors he knew.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(I know. I'm merely foolish enough to want the forbidden fruit, but I'd like to think wise enough to know not to take it.) They said gravely, almost casually. (If anyone could protect her better than a narrator, you could) Author thought to themselves.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

I should hope, thought-spoke Lewis calmly, back to an even keel. He returned his focus to Hela, observing her actions and emotional state.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela gradually straightened up, tucking back a stray strand of hair that had fallen in front of her eyes. She paused to ensure the presence wasn't going to return and exhaled heavily.

Must've been nothing.

She picked up a lengthy piece of rope from the floor, rubbing her thumb against the rough texture.

"Time for your execution, Dr. Lanyon. You will be hung on charges of... being a thorn in my side." She informed the dummy with a chuckle. Taking her seat once more at the desk, she attempted to recreate a noose from fuzzy memory. "Let's see if you can still talk with this lovely accessory."

The collection of fabric gave no response.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Hela, you're kinda messed up aren't you?) Author asked rhetorically. (And he couldn't talk in the first place.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

She's actually rather typical for a Hyde, remarked Lewis. Not that bad, actually. I've known worse.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela fumbled with the rope for awhile, pursing her lips as each knot she made bore no resemblance to the nooses she had seen. Sighing, she simply tied one end of the rope around the dummy's neck and hugged her creation to her chest, surveying the surrounding chaos for a proper place to hang and display her art.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Heh, I wonder what her reaction would be if it did start talking?) Thought Author. (Hey, Lewis?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

I imagine she'd think herself insane. Or blame it on me, somehow.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Huh? I didn't-! Since when could you read minds?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

You're on the astral plane, Author. Thought is as good as speech here. Why do you think my phrasing's been so blunt?

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(You sounded pretty normal to me. Are you normally less direct?) Author drifted to float upside down for the fun of it. (Not that I mind. I prefer directness, less room for misinterpretation.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

When the situation warrants it, yes. Some people require a more delicate approach than do others. It's up to what the individual can handle, once I have the measure of them. I tailor my words accordingly.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Adaptive then. Cool.)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Finding no better option, Hela climbed onto Helen's overturned wardrobe with a few of the mangle books under her arm. She stacked them on top of her own armoire over one end of the dummy's rope, the bottom of the pants hovering a few inches off the ground. She cautiously pulled her hands away, her lips spreading into a smile when nothing fell.

"Heh, you'll make a lovely gift for Dr. Weir."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Aaannnd she's just cut off access to her own clothing. Brilliant.

At least she was creative about it.

Hm, I wonder what I'll have to do to show "consequences"...

The thoughts came rapid-fire and uncensored.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Consequences for the dummy or wrecking her room?) Author asked. (I'd say take the clothes used and the damaged books.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Oh, the ruined books and clothing. Definitely. Creating and displaying the dummy itself was merely enacting a fantasy. But the materials used were Helen's, not her own.

He considered options.

Take away her books, most certainly.

Take away her clothing?

No, not all of it. Could be read the wrong way.

Maybe leave her with a dressing gown. Protect her decency.

Good luck escaping in your nightclothes, Hela.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Taking away her clothing seems extreme. What about leaving one day outfit and locking Helen's clothes up in a separate room for when she resurfaces?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Lewis focused on the Narrator, his train of thought derailed.

They're only ideas, Author, he explained. I've not settled on anything yet. I may do this. I may not. I frankly haven't had the chance to think it all the way through. This is the astral plane; you're going to hear a stray thought or three. Please don't take them as fait accompli.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Oh, okay. What's fait accompli?)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Something that's already been decided unilaterally, with no other input, as if it were set in stone.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Hela stepped down from her perch, wrapping an arm around her midriff and huffing. An ache had begun to grow, unnoticed during her arts and crafts session, but now the hollowness of her stomach was undeniable.

God d**** it, there's no way I'm making it to lunch.

"Catt should've brought more food..." She grumbled and shot a dirty look at her door.

Lewis just had to move the d*** hinges.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Hey, if you weren't awake, screaming you wouldn't have this problem.) Author chided lightly.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

That is true. The most sensible option at this point would be to lie down and try to sleep. But she'd have to calm down, first. I imagine her anger and the physical activity of her tantrum have released a fair amount of adrenaline into her system. It may take a bit.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Hmp... what do you say, Hastie? Time for plan B?"

Hela rubbed her rumbling stomach and grabbed one of the unharmed books from its shelf, flipping through the pages until a small metal rod fell out. A lockpick. Grinning, she crouched and picked it up, returning the book to its proper place as she straightened up.

"Bingo."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Well now...this explains much. He was glad he'd made note of the books. No wonder she didn't trash those. Likely has a tool of some kind in every one of 'em.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Yeah. I used to hide my card collections in my books. They're handy like that!) Author briefly wondered if he planned to do anything, but figured they'd see soon enough.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela twirled the lockpick around her thumb, approaching the door.

Hela...

Her eyes, a moment before bright and eager, turned cold as her jaw clenched.

"What do you want?"

She hadn't felt the doctor waking. Even now, her presence was faint.

Please... don't...

"Don't what? Hurt anybody? Steal? Sin?" She growled and bent down in front of the door.

"Save your breath... You've never stopped me before."

No reply came, the feeble sensations from Helen fading. Hela glowered at the lock before her, inserting the pick and wiggling it around for a moment.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Helen!) Author exclaimed. (Hang in there girl, help's coming.) Worry radiated from their form like smoke from a doused campfire.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

'Thought I felt a wisp of her.

'Glad I didn't come to this dimension any later.

'Wonder where Hela plans to go if she gets out...

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Merely a wisp-, I hope that's not all that's left. I wish I could help her.) Cold sadness overtook the smoke, and a fork of lightning snapped through the air. (I could if I hadn't made that deal.) They lamented to themselves.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela carefully adjusted her grip on the pick, leaning her ear towards the door. With her frequent practice and basic understanding of how locks work, the one on her door only lasted a minute before all the pins had been put in their proper places and the door opened with a clink. She tugged her pick out and rose, her eyes bright once more.

"Now that's better..."

Putting the lockpick into her pocket, she turned the doorknob and opened her door just a sliver, peeking out into the hallway.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

We're not too late, Author. She is still in there, and I did feel her rise to consciousness.

To Author's thought, Lewis wondered:

Why's it so important to them to be able to control things here? It's not their failing if the world runs as it does. No one will blame them for events happening as they normally would. Why are they so down on themselves? It makes no sense. And no one compelled them to make the deal in the first place; they approached me. Made it of their own free will. It's baffling.

Noting the astral "lightning", he felt a sinking feeling.

Damn, that's the last thing I need, an unhappy godling on my hands. S***, they likely heard that. Bugger me. Should've counted cards. 'Course, Elder alone was able to disrupt that; it'd likely be useless with Elder's Creator. Aw, bloody Hell, I need to focus on Hela. Can't even do my damn job.

He turned his attention back to her just as the lock gave way.

Where ya goin', darlin'?

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

('Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it is in your power to act.) Author thought. (I'm not angry. Just, annoyed at my past self for tying my hands.)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

With no lodgers in sight, Hela pushed open the door and crept into the hallway. She left the door open, bowing her head as she slipped on her bracelet and began to make her way towards the stairs that lead down to the kitchen.

I hope there's something left.

She let out a sigh.

I probably should've got myself some dinner before I burned everything.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

Proverbs 3:27. Bible verses. Bloody lovely. That's all I was short of.

Proverbs 3:5: Lean not on your own understanding.

And now I've likely offended them.

Does a demigod believe in God?

Doubly so now.

You're the one who mentioned anger, not I. Telling, that.

Triply so.

Stop distracting me from Hela; I haven't time for a theological debate! Have I not taken care of Catt to your satisfaction?

Quadruply.

Now their feelings will be hurt. Damn it all.

Hela.

Bugger.

Lewis shook off his thoughts and bolted back to his body, waking with a start. He took the slightly longer way round but made up the time by sliding down the banister, beating Hela to the kitchen by about 20 seconds. He lighted no candle. Instead, he simply stood in the kitchen's shadows, awaiting her arrival.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Author followed after Lewis, not content to be left behind and continued speaking to him from the astral plane. Though frank in their delivery, there was no malice to their words.

(One, I didn't know you read the Bible. Two, why do you think I'm trusting you? Three, I'm a lot less easy to offend than you seem to think. Four, yes. Five, I thought that's what you meant by 'unhappy,' Sorry. It probably is rather telling, but I'm not sure what of. Six, yes you have been taking good care of her. Otherwise I would be angry and have broken off our agreement by now.

I'll let you focus on Hela now, but I'll still be watching if you need anything. Like being able to recognise Hela when she walks in with the bracelet on.) And abruptly fell silent.

In the shadows of the hallway, unbeknownst to Hela, someone else had been following her trail.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela moved quietly, easily finding her way in the darkened halls. After all, the kitchen was her second most visisted place. She stepped through the doorway of the kitchen, squinting and blinking into the darkness as she fumbled for a light.

"Why does it always have to be so bloody dark...?" She grumbled to herself, scowling.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

With a quick sweep of Weir's walking stick, Hela's legs went out from under her.

"Because, my darling girl..." came a voice from the darkness, "no one's supposed to be here right now. Least of all you."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela barely had time to cry out before landing flat on her back with a thud. She groaned breathlessly and propped herself up with one elbow, rubbing the back of her head as it throbbed.

"What... Lewis...?" She began shakily, peering into the dark. "How can you...?"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(My question exactly.) Author muttered from somewhere in the dark, utterly confused.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Good question," said Lewis, still looking at Hela. "Not telling." A man has to have some secrets, after all. Keep you guessing. "But the more important issue here is: You are in the kitchen. Doubtless to get more food. What part of 'you must miss one meal' do you fail to comprehend, Hela?" he asked calmly, almost sadly. "English not your first language?" he added sardonically.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Hela scrambled back, straining to make out Lewis and whoever else had spoken in the shadows with wide eyes. With no one in sight, she could only picture the doctor leering at her with that same expression of fury, as if he contained the very fires of Hell within his soul.

"I... I thought... I could grab a knife..." She lied meekly.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Like that's any better Hela. Lewis, should I get the lights?) Author asked, somewhat annoyed with the lack of an answer.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Lewis simply looked down at Hela and raised an eyebrow--an expression which chanced to match up nicely with Author's statement. To the question, he simply thought:

I certainly appreciate the offer, though that won't be necessary. 'Don't want to chance waking the other lodgers. And Catt does need her rest.

He tsked at Hela and shook his head.

Poor girl can't even lie properly.

"Either way, you are not supposed to be here," he said, stepping out of the shadows. A sigh. "Come, now. Let's go back to your room." He extended his left hand to help her up.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"N-No!"

Hela blurted. She pushed herself to her feet, rising and backing away.

"No, I'm not... I'm not going with you!"

Her gaze flickered down to Lewis' cane before returning to his eyes, a smile growing on her lips. She continued stepping closer to the doorway.

"And you can't stop me..."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Don't need to."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Hela suddenly felt a pair of strong hands grab her by the arms.

"She giving you trouble?" Asked a warm, but cutting voice from behind her.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Hela went rigid, her arms jerking in more of a reflex than an attempt to get free.

"I am not, let me go! He's the one who attacked me." She insisted. "I was just leaving!"

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"You, young miss, are not even supposed to be out of your room." He looked to Sozo. "Thank you for your assistance. Lewis Weir, by the by. Could you help me escort her back?"

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Sozo, pleasure to meet you sir." he said from behind the taller girl. "Certainly Sir."

Sozo made to turn Hela and stere her back to her room, still holding her arms.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago • edited

Sozo....?

Her eyes widened in realization and she struggled to tear her arms away with a sudden savage energy, bracing her feet.

"It's you! You're the one who helped Mz. Hyde! I nearly died because of you!"

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

"Likewise. And thank you," Weir said with a nod to Sozo.

He seemed puzzled by Hela's outburst, obviously ignorant of the events she referred to.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Sozo shifted his grip to keep better hold of the thrashing girl.

"I don't know what you're talking about. Who even is this?" He asked Lewis over his shoulder.

(Back when Hela shot Catt, Sozo helped take her down along with Mz. Hyde.) Author explained in Lewis' mind. (That was shortly after she sowed up, actually. And the reason for Catt's two brain operations.)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Don't you dare play dumb! Let me go, now!"

Hela demanded, tugging with all her strength against Sozo... which, admittedly, wasn't much.

"You're not taking me back!"

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Oh," said Lewis, the light of sudden understanding in his eye.

"Sozo, she's wearing a magic bracelet so people can't recognize her, but...this is Hela.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Sir?" Sozo asked, confused. Having enough of Hela's flailing, he pulled her elbows together and down, making balance a greater concern than escape.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Ah, here. Let me get that." He stepped in and removed the bracelet from her wrist.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Sozo's head jerked back in surprise, nearly toppling the two of them.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela gasped sharply once her elbows were pinned, wincing and baring her teeth at Lewis.

"Hey, that's mine...!" She hissed. The near tumble backwards drew another gasp from her and she ceased her movements, her eyes squeezed shut.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Actually, it's Helen's," retorted Weir. "You just happen to share a body. Let's go on up."

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Sozo directed Hela towards the stairs.

(Not even a word to me of "goodbye?" Maybe a "see ya later?" "It was nice talking with you?") Author pouted at Lewis in mock hurt.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Good Lord, Author, I'm not up the stairs yet. And I'd presumed you'd follow.

The thought, as thoughts did, had simply tumbled out.

On a calmer note, he did reflect:

I am grateful for the information regarding Hela and Sozo. And Catt.

A feeling of sadness and worry welled up as he thought about the dynamic of Hela's and Catt's relationship, exemplified all too well in what Author had told him.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Yay! I can come!) Author fair nearly bounced out of the shadowy kitchen after them. (And that's just how their relationship started! I don't think it's gotten any better since.)

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela bowed her head and walked where she was led, a frown clouding her expression at the sound of the strangers voice again.

"Who are you?"

She kept shifting slightly to try and relieve the pressure in her arms.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Ah, my apologies. Hela, Sozo, this is Author. Author...Sozo and Hela."

They continued up the stairs.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(So formal. Hi again Sozo. Pleasure to meet you Hela.) Author stepped around front and began walking backwards so they could bow to the captive girl.

Sozo just grunted at them.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

"Author...?"

Hela scowled up at the bowing figure.

"The doctor has met you before... at Catt's party. What are you doing here with Lewis?" She asked a tad breathlessly.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Lewis said nothing, allowing the conversation to take its natural course.

They neared the top of the stairs.

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Catt Hatter  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(Oh, not much Hela. Just talking about the ethics of magic, consequences for actions, Catt and you-woop!) Without looking where they were going, Author tripped over backwards on the last step.

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Helen Jekyll  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Hela stopped short, snickering.

"Well, I hope you fumbled less with your words than you do with your feet." She leaned a portion of her weight back onto Sozo and strained against the relentless pressure he applied, grimacing.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Oh, rest assured Hela,) Author said, levitating back onto their feet with a cheeky grin. (My exemplary vocabulary is much more dexterous and eloquent than my feet.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Weir crested the stairs, then continued leading the group toward Hela's room. He opened the door further and held it so they could pass through.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"How the devil did you just...?" Hela trailed off and glowered at them, her eyes narrowing to slits. "What are you?"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Sozo guided Hela back into her room pointedly not looking at Author.

(A narrator, or you can think of me like a really powerful alien of some sort if that's easier.)

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Lewis locked the door behind them, then turned to look at Hela...and the room. He beheld the mess, as well as the hanged effigy of Hastie.

"Well," he said to Hela. "Someone's thrown a tantrum."

He went over to the false Hastie and examined it, hand on his chin.

"Hmm..."

He considered a moment, then spoke to Hela without looking at her:

"I take it these are Helen's clothes." He cast a glance at the ground and the scattered pages, then tilted his head at the bookcase and its few remaining volumes. "And books. And that these," he continued, striding up to the spartan shelves, "are yours."

He began to gather them up.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hela merely gave Lewis a black look, content with staying silent... until he started taking the books.

"Hey, don't you think you've done enough?! Leave those alone!" She struggled to step forward, hissing softly. "They're not for you!"

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Sozo's grip was firm and steady. He wasn't out to hurt her after all, that wasn't in his orders.

Author kept silent.

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Jekyll1886  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

Lewis sighed.

"Hela, you ruined Helen's books. They are now lost to her. Ergo, these are lost to you. You also ruined some of her clothes. Therefore, you lose some of yours. Actions. Consequences."

He unlocked the door, put the books and clothes out in the hall, then closed it, and locked it again.

"Unfortunately, there's something else I need from you as well." He approached Hela. Having noted where she'd hidden the lockpicking equipment, he confiscated it, too.

He then set to work combing through drawers, under the bed, under the rug--anywhere and everywhere he hadn't already searched. He placed any items capable of causing harm outside in the hall. This included the rope around Hastie's effigy.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Hela fell quiet and lowered her head, listening to Lewis work with a heavy heart.

Though giving into rage was tempting, the thought of making yet another misstep kept her still. Her body was battered, her stomach ached... and now she was never going to be able to leave her room.

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Catt Hatter  Helen Jekyll • 2 years ago

Author looked at Hela sadly.

(Hey, Lewis? Can't she keep at least one book?)

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Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(( Tairais I believe you mentioned a letter for Lewis...))

Lewis happened to be in the hall, not far from Richard's room.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

As if he were merely emerging from under the surface of an inky pond, Charricthran's head poked through the wall of Richard's room to glance in Lewis' direction.

"Hey, kid. Letter for ya! You're gonna have ta come in here though. Not technically allowed ta leave unless it's ta deliver a letter." The raven blinked expectantly, waiting for a response, sounding as if he were perched on Lewis' shoulder even as he was some distance away.

He offered a smirk full of teeth that was in no way as welcoming as it was meant to be.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 2 years ago

"Oh!" said Lewis, briefly startling at the being's unexpected emergence from a solid object. However, after a moment, it occurred to him that he himself often walked through doors and walls when he left his body during sleep, so the only real difference was that Charricthran was visible.

Nothing to be unnerved by, then, Weir concluded. Hm, I wonder how he manages to make himself seen...

"Very well, then," he replied, and entered Richard's quarters.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Slipping back into the confines of four now-familiar walls, Charricthran hopped off his perch on the bookshelf next to Gerard's resting place, the latter of whom whistled a cheerful greeting to Lewis.

Gliding to land on the kitchen counter near the door, he offered up a (slightly charred) piece of parchment, adding, "Seemed alright when I saw 'im, if a bit.. twitchy. Generally is though, so what do I know? Can't read the letter t'ya, not allowed ta peep and whatnot."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 2 years ago • edited

"Hello, little one," Lewis greeted Gerard pleasantly. "And thank you, Charricthran." He took the letter and read it silently.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

The letter was short and nearly curt in the almost clinical way it was written. In this sense, more was said through what wasn't said than what actually was.

Lewis:

I find myself in France, having found nothing where I first thought I would find a hint as to Arty's Artemis' whereabouts. Instinct is leading me towards Paris and the memories contained within.

I find myself with ample opportunity to practice my knowledge of the French culture and language again. Circumstance required me to offer my services as a tinkerer in order to acquire information, which has led me towards the Saint-Chapelle cathedral in Paris, perhaps half a day's travel from my current location.

All of this would be quite pleasant

Were it not for the acrid fear I feel when

I worry for Artemis and Elias the longer this takes. I only hope that I find Artemis before Elias.

Elias would not make it out alive if

I wonder how many of us will return alive-

I hope to find Artemis as soon as possible. If I am right in my hopes, my former mentors will leave him and exact their displeasure on me. He does not deserve to suffer for my idiocy.

That being said, if I do not return, do not miss me.

If Elias or Artemis do not return, do not look for me.

I have little understanding of what will come in the following weeks. Rest assured, I aim to prepare for the worst to be on the safe side of things.

Your friend, though I am not worth the title,

Sincerely,

Richard."

see more

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 2 years ago

Damn, thought Lewis, upon reading the letter. If I didn't have so many irons in the fire here, I'd be tempted to go after him--after them, he corrected himself.

"Hmm..." His serious, pensive look surely gave him away to Gerard and Charricthran.

But maybe it won't come to that. I hope. I don't expect, but I hope. Or at least not till later, if it does.

"I'll write him back," Weir informed the raven, then sat down at the writing desk.

Richard,

Do what you have to. But know that you are not alone unless you will it so. Others at the Society have learned of your and Elias's disappearance. You would, I think, have reinforcements if you desired them. At one and the same time, I wish you fruitful hunting--and that you do not lose part of yourself.

As always,

Lewis

Weir folded the letter and gave it to Charricthran with a nod.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Gerard, seeing as he was perched on the top of a bookshelf and couldn't quite see over the edge, offered no comment. Charricthran, on the other hand, tsked in a hoarse, croaky manner, looking over Lewis's shoulder as he wrote.

It appeared the inability to read letters didn't extend to Lewis.

"Don'tcha worry about him. Well, maybe do. Not gonna ask for reinforcements cos' that'd ruin the game for the other two players, who'd then sacrifice his queen to gain back their pawn, if ya see what I mean. Either way, he's not gonna ask unless things are really bad, in which case the lot o' ya wouldn't get there in time. I can't teleport all of ye."

He paused and shifted from one foot to the other, as if thinking. The sigil on his chest glowed first red, then a faint blue-violet.

Eventually, he added, "I'll be back with a response shortly- he's walking through the French countryside. No one around ta wonder why he's talking with a toothed bird."

With that, he snatched up the letter and jumped backwards off Lewis' shoulder, landing on the floor as a puff of smoke that vanished into the atmosphere.

Gerard whistled conversationally.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 2 years ago

Maybe you can't "teleport" all of us, Charricthran, thought Lewis. But I've acquaintances who can jaunt us there if need be.

"We'll just have to wait and see," he replied to Gerard. Though I am getting tired of saying that.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

About two minutes later, the shadows painted across the ceiling bubbled like tar, almost dripping, though the drops never broke off to fall. The largest of the drops eventually manifested into a vaguely-raven-shaped-blob that then fell and resolved itself into the form of Charricthran, a scrap of paper clutched in his talons.

He landed with a quiet thump on the desk and dropped it face-up for the world to see, as it was neither rolled up nor placed in an envelope.

Lewis:

I had never known myself more than I was with them. Do not worry of me losing part of myself. Worry instead that I am further stepping into myself.

~Richard

Charricthran smirked again. "He was about ta get robbed when I left. Pity the foolish ones."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 2 years ago • edited

"Indeed." And yet the masks we wear are a part of ourselves also. He'd do well to remember it doesn't need to be either-or. But Richard would do what he would. And Lewis knew now was certainly not the time to bring up his own opinion on the matter; Prince had enough on his plate already.

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Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

((And in the UK... until the end of April *clap* *clap*))

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chatterghosts  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/19d4b2776407447256640b033bf3804e4119ac39a9fe6f718d2ada5195ec8348.jpg?w=600&h=669

(( I doodled a thing. ))

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Dr. H. Griffin  chatterghosts • 2 years ago

"I'm going to gut you one day... Mark my words..."

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chatterghosts  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

"Good to know you're thinking of me!"

(( Bless them. ))

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RBDECEPTICON17  chatterghosts • 2 years ago • edited

(Awesome drawing, but I think it would be best for Rose to stay away from the old man...just to be safe. :3)

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Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago • edited

Jasper Jekyll said:

( It IS pretty rude to call someone "a dude dressed in drag". You

could have just asked if it was one person narrating about themselves.

(I make my remarks in character because that's who I am. That's why I write this section in italics 😉 )

(You said "drag", not me. What's wrong with being a man dressed as a woman? (As for asking whether it was one person, well, I wasn't even sure whether that was what the problem was.) )

(You've lost me :-| Don't rely on emojis, by the way, they don't show up on my computer. All I'm seeing is a little square with six digits in it.)

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Jasper Jekyll  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

( I said "drag" because asking if the character is dressing up as the opposite gender is implying that you assume they're wearing drag. Which is hurtful by the way. You could do serious harm to someone if you make remarks like that to them.

A lot of trans people have to face a discriminating crowd and invalidating their gender identity is THE go-to attack for the people that hate them.

You're talking to her right now and you seriously can't see the winky face? XD I thought .....what operating system are you using? )

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Wizardblizzard  Jasper Jekyll • 2 years ago

Jasper, go climb a tree.

Right, having got that out of my system.

You're missing the point. The point is, I asked because the NARRATRO was calling him "he". I thought that suggested that the narrator WAS thinking of him as in some way or other male (and it was the narrator I was asking), or they'd have said "she" - for instance, Artemis, being a bloke by adoption, is always referred to as "he". Otherwise there wouldn't have been a question - if Dr Rose was definitely female even if transgender female then I'd know why they were wearing a dress. You must admit, Dr. Rose's actual position isp rety complciated and isn;t one you'd guess in a hurry. Well done, that character. I wouldn't presume to raise the question of whethat someone was in any sense male or not unless the person I was talking to had raised it themselves.

As an Aspie and a science major, this not being allowed to say or ask what anything is straightforwardly gives me a belly ache. I was only asking. The answer could have been "no".

I wish I knew whether this was a real argument or a joke. I still can't make head or tali of whather I'm talking to Jasper or Vintages here. You may know what you mean by the italics, I don't.

Vista and Firefox 28.0, by the way.

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Jasper Jekyll  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

( "Go climb a tree" That's pretty funny coming from the one who started this.

You're missing the real point here. The point, the reason why I'm angry, is because Rosy's gender is really no one's business.

Are you sleeping with him?

No?

Then you don't have a reason to ask what's between his legs. You don't need to know why a "he" is wearing an evening gown.

No one is preventing you from asking a question but if you wanted pronouns, you should asked for them instead of making a disrespectful jab at his identity. THAT is what is not okay

The lines here are often really blurred. I, Jaspermod, am in a very real sense the same orange giant we all know and love. The difference is sentience. I exist beyond the fourth wall, so I can see everything she can't and the italics separate her ( the character who has no idea what we're saying ) from the speaker ( me ).

And your OS TOTALLY makes sense. Microsoft isn't super savvy with emojis the way that Apple and Android are. My apologies for the absent winky face! )

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ATasteForVintages  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

heeeeeeeey ( Na na na na hey hey goood byeeeee )

* ahem*

So, I've been following you guys and before you and Jaspermod attract more spectators I should probably let you know that some of our Lodgers are tuned to our dimension and they can kiiiiinda see what we're saying in the Out of Character chats, just so y'know.

To half answer you, you've also probably noticed that some of the character pages on the wiki are lacking a Narrator.

No it's not a mistake.

Yes they are playing as themselves.

Dr. Rose is one of these people :)

If you want to ask him about his choice in formalwear, I'm sure he'd be willing to explain!

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Wizardblizzard  ATasteForVintages • 2 years ago

((I... think I get you. Anyway I'm clear as far as that Dr Rose is a "hears Narrators" character, great! Those are always fun to interact with.

And if you're saying that queries about what Dr Rose's narrator said should be addressed to Dr Rose's narrator, well, that was what I was expecting to do - if you look back, it was actually you and Jaspermod that decided you were going to answer the posting instead! :-) ((In fact, I wasn't positive that Dr Rose even was related to you two until this happened.)) ((You lot must give Alicia a splitting headache.))

By the way, I forgot to ask, what's "e W e"? I don't know that one.))

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ATasteForVintages  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

Weeeeell you mostly seem like you get it except for one important fact.

Dr. Rose can't just hear the Narrators. He IS one. He is a flesh and blood person like you and me, he just doesn't have a body in our "IRL" dimension.

If you recall, you approached him on the balcony in the middle of a Time locked event. For him to have answered you, he would have had to have split the story into two separate timelines.

He may also have chosen to ignore it for another reason, however-

The Victorian era is not kind to nonbinary folk, so hearing a question like yours isn't totally unfathomable, but it may have still stung for him to hear you refer to him as you did. Being surrounded by people in a high society type setting, he could have simply brushed your ( hopefully unintentionally ) upsetting comment aside to focus on the task at hand and maintain a charmingly cool demeanor.

Dr. Rose is, in face, NOT related to either of us. I happen to be well versed in the variety of character types here and Jasper is his roommate. I don't know why we'd give Alicia a headache though seeing as we don't interact with her.

And the e W e face translates to something like this:

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Wizardblizzard  ATasteForVintages • 2 years ago

((Vintages, I admire your eagerness to stand up against people

disrespecting complicatedly-gendered people. But I didn't actually say

what you're getting angry about me saying. This kind of thing won't get

you anywhere.

Narrator-wise: Ah yes, sorry, I worked it out the minute after my Internet went down. So Dr Rose the character doesn't hear Narrators, in the same sense that Alicia, Catt and Mz Hyde do, but Dr Rose the Narrator does because he is one.

"Related": Well, in cahoots with, then, shall we say, given that when I address a remark to Dr Rose the Narrator, instead of them objecting on their own account and thus giving me the chance to straightforwardly explain I didn't mean anything and say I'm sorry if it sounded like it, I get lectures from Vintages and Jasper. You do see this makes things complicated? ))

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ATasteForVintages  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

Forgive me for not following, but I don't understand "what thing" is getting me nowhere? I'm not at all angry. I was simply explaining the point you just made-

that Dr. Rose the narrator is also Dr. Rose the character.

From an IRL story writing perspective, your question is reasonable and makes sense, but to them, the wording is infinitely more personal, you must understand that. Jasper was the one going on the defense because she ishis roommate ( and also an ambiguously gendered being ) so to her, it did feel like a personal attack.

I also made the offer a few comments ago that if you wanted to ask him this question again, you could summon him here to speak directly to him. You literally popped in and made your remark in the middle of an active storyline, you'll get a much better chance that he'll answer you here instead :)

I can't vouch for Jasper, I only stepped in to curb what looks like an increasingly heated argument.

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Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

In a relatively short span of time, Lewis had learned of Narrators, made a deal with Author, let himself get beaten gotten beaten by Drunky, taken on Elder, treated Catt for hypothermia, gone into her psyche after her, assisted Griffin against Moreau, helped put out a fire at what should have been a relaxing party, caught the arsonist, tried to talk some sense into Hela, had this effort undermined by her well-meaning friend, spoken with Catt, spoken, once again, with Author, a transdimensional being, had his clothes stolen, and managed to them back. All while holding down two jobs.

When he at last came home, he was exhausted. He took off his shoes, spats, and coat, and collapsed into a chair. He drew out the crocodile-leather flask from his waistcoat pocket, unstoppered it, and took a swig.

Unfortunately, a swig was all that was left.

Grumbling, he closed it and set it on the table. He'd been too busy (and too low on funds) to restock any booze.

A possibility occurred to him.

He climbed the stairs to the upper floor of the flat, and withdrew a silver flask from a chest of drawers. He opened it, sniffing the contents.

Questionable at best, Weir concluded. He thought he detected notes of turpentine, old water, and perhaps cocaine. But there was definitely alcohol in it.

Ah, well, he shrugged, and drank.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

The substance was disgusting! It burned Lewis's nose and throat and he was surprised it didn't melt his face off. But even through the strength of the drink, the small sip hinted at a fruity flavor...apples? Either way it was probably best not to press further and experience that awful taste again.

He could feel the fire slide down to his stomach. It warmed him up on this bitter day. The liquor mingled with his dinner and it's poison began to flow through his blood, spreading a comforting heat through his limbs. While the taste itself was ungodly, the calming affect almost made up for it. It was no surprise that this was Drunky's choice in drink considering the difficult and straining job he had held. It was probably the only way he could get through--

"What the bloody hell do you think you're doing?!"

The impossibly familiar voice rang out behind Lewis, as clear as day.

((There was a 25% chance of this happening.))

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"What the--?" Lewis exclaimed, whipping around to face the source of the...

Not quite sound, he realized. No, this was different, though somehow familiar...

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh Sure! Now you hear me!"

There stood the man, arms crossed, face bright red with anger. The rage that flowed through the figure was practically tangible as he put aside the thought of how ...this was even allowed to happen in the first place, instead focusing on the act itself. Somehow one of his prized flasks had fallen into the hands of The Golden Goose.

"But here, let me repeat myself for a third time! WHAT THE BLOODY HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!?"

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

Before him stood the drunkard, just as he'd looked that night...the last night Weir'd ever seen him.

Lewis shook his head in disbelief.

"Hell if I know," he answered honestly.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"OH DON'T GIVE ME THAT!"

He shouted at his nemesis. He was livid! This...this...monster, had revealed himself with a swing from his private bottle! That bottle was only for those close to him, if that! Not to mention it was his lucky flask! Marked by the small dent at the base where that villain's hand rested!

His belongings had been perverted! His treasured possessions vandalized! His very being violated!

And to top it off this disgusting claim of a human being was playing the innocent! Acting as though he was ignorant of his heinous crimes!

"I'll tell you what you're doing! You're drinking from my flask!"

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Well, obviously," retorted Lewis. "What I meant was, 'Hell if I know what I'm doing talking to you right now.' I..." He shook his head. "How are you even here?" Disbelief was gradually giving way to...gladness, perhaps? Or was it amusement?

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

The feeling of amusement was not shared however as the man threw his hands in the air, exclaiming, "You're insane! I knew it!"

What the devil was he going on about? He was here because he had to get his damn flasks that this thief stole! Was there much more to say than that? "First you abduct me! Then you fight me! And then during the fight you stealing my belongings! You think I wouldn't come back for them?! Hell!! If you thought that you're more of a fool than I thought!"

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

"It's good to have you back," said Lewis with a smile, and moved to clap the fellow on the shoulder.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"Wha--" The confusion from his arch nemesis's reaction of... relief(?), was quickly replaced with triumph (and maybe a bit of fear) as the foreseen attack came. Lewis's mind tricks and red herrings wouldn't catch him off guard this time! Throwing his hands up in defense, he closed his eyes in preparation for the expected blow.

...But it never came.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

Instead, Lewis's hand passed right through. At the same time, he experienced an all-too-familiar sensation: That of two souls encountering each other while only one of them wore flesh. It happened often during Weir's astral wanderings. But, this time...

Lewis looked at the solid flask in his solid hand. Then at the man before him. A sorrowful realization struck Weir through; when next he turned his gaze to the man, it was one of pity.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

He opened his eyes after a few moments. The impact had never come. Why had the impact never--

Realization dawned on him as he saw the sorrowful expression that had taken roost upon Lewis's features.

"YOU MISSED!" He practically jumped in delight. The sly snake had missed and the hawk doubled over from a big belly laugh that shook his whole being.

"YOU! MISSED!" He shouted again a chuckle accenting each word, before cackling even louder. This was clearly his lucky day and he knew exactly why too!

Regaining his composure, though the giggles still racked his frame like aftershocks of an earthquake, he snickered out, "Can't hold your drink, can you?!" This comment, however, only sent him back into a fit of laughter.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Weir gave an involuntary snort of laughter at the drunkard's reaction...and at the frankly ludicrous assumption that he couldn't hold his liquor.

"Pfahaha!" he chortled, eyes squenching shut for a moment in merriment.

"I've missed you," he admitted. Overconfidence and all.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"D*mn right!" He snorted.

Maybe the Golden Goose wasn't that bad after all, the man could admit when he failed and he was able to laugh at himself too--something so few could do.

"Alright, alright!" Wiping the tears from his eyes he grinned at Lewis, "Don't think I didn't forget about why I came here. My flask." He said with an outstretched hand.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"You're welcome to it..." said Lewis, trailing off with an edge of uncertainty to his voice. "But...I'll just put it...here, shall I?" He placed it atop the chest of drawers.

How do I explain to him he's...dead?

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"Glad you've come to your senses!" He smiled, beginning to walk towards the chest before stopping, noting the uncertainty in Lewis's voice,

"You didn't ...do something to it, did you?" He turned to scowl at the goose. It was very likely the trickster had affected his lucky flask in some way. Always up to his mind games, this one. Well no more! He had experienced enough of this foul man to know his deceptions like the back of his hand. Never again should he fall into one of his traps!

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Unfortunately, no," said Lewis with a solemn shake of his head. "Though I expect you'll presume I have when you try to pick it up."

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

He eyed the devil, "And why is that?"

What was he up to?

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"My prediction is that what you perceive as your 'hand' will pass right through it. And you'll think I've done something to it. Or to you. When, in fact, neither is the case." He held his gaze, dead serious. "Do you understand what I'm trying to tell you?"

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"What the devil are you going on about?!" His face distorted into one of disgust. This was the final straw that broke the camel's back, the man had finally lost it! He was insane! A nut job!

Quickly striding over to the chest, his every step empowered with the desire to escape this rabid goose, he reached out. His hand ready to sweep up the flask and his feet ready to turn on its heels and finally leave this nightmare behind.

But instead of rescuing his drink, it slipped through his fingers--his hand. Just as predicted.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Do you know why you can't pick it up?" asked Lewis quietly.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

He didn't respond. He didn't move. He didn't breath.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Lewis gave him a moment to process everything.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

His hand went right through his flask. Right through his flask. His lucky flask. It was just as Lewis had predicted. Just as he foreshadowed.

His hand went through his flask.

The man attempted the maneuver again, and again his hand went through the solid metal. Lewis claimed he hadn't done anything. He claimed he hadn't done anything. Probably just another mind trick. Mind trick, after mind trick, after mind trick! When would this demon stop?! When would he stop!?

The color rushed back to his face and the man began to tremble. "What. Did. You. Do?"

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Absolutely nothing," Weir reiterated. "Though, as I said, you doubtless think I have. Because it's easier to assume the worst of me than to face the truth of your situation."

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"And what situation is that?! The fact that I can't pick up my bloody drink?!" His voice was filled with ire from the situation, contempt at the d*mn goose's supersillious attitude and gibberish responses, and a desperation to find the end of this nightmare.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"The fact that you're...dead," said Lewis, at a loss for how else to get through to him.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

He whipped around to face the terrible eyes. What was this man going on about? He hadn't died in fact he was alive as could be and he would feel even more lively once he took a swig of his favorite drink!

No. This couldn't be! Just another one of the Goose's mind tricks, he told himself. Though....though the honesty in Lewis's voice made him question the invalidity of his statement, and he looked back on how he came to be in this strange little room in front of this strange little man.

He had been wandering the halls just after winning a fight against beast that stood before him. He was on top of the world and there was no evil that he couldn't stop! He was smiling. He was looking for a way back out and onto the streets so he could share is story with....

But then what? What came after that?

His mind drew a blank (though images of doves and teeth flickered in the candle light of a memory in a dream) and the next instant he recalled was standing in this current dungeon watching the abhorrent crime as the abominable devil drank from his flask.

This wasn't the first time he had a blackout and the best he could piece together was that the loathsome Lewis had stolen his flask during their final battle and upon realization of this fact his goals changed from finding an exit to finding his treasured belonging. After wandering the halls he must have discovered the villain's lair leading them to the current point in time upon which they now stood.

"What the devil are you talking about, man!?"

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

"You have passed away. Your body has ceased to be. Though your soul continues." Unless I've finally gone mad. He wasn't sure how much more direct he could be. "If it's any consolation, some friends and I made certain the monster who killed you can never hurt anyone else."

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

He studied those high cheek bones for a long time, realizing that Lewis believed every word that flitted off of his forked tongue. There was only one explanation to this phenomenon and the man's eyes widened in enlightenment.

"You really can't hold your drink, can you?" The humor of the statement caught up to his eyes first before exploding from his mouth in a ruckus laughter. He took a few moments before catching his breath and readdressing the drunken fool.

"Let me set the record straight for you," he snickered locking eyes idiotic man, "I. Am. Not. Dead." He accented each word making sure that even the deaf could understand. "I am very much alive and I would oh so like to leave this hell hole of a building before the sun rises." The humor fell from eyes. "Now if you would kindly fix my flask, I'll be taking my leave."

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

"My flat may be humble, but it's no 'hell hole'," said Lewis, incensed. "And I'll have you know I can hold my drink quite well, thank you." He gave an indignant huff. "I cannot fix your flask, because it is not broken. And you're perfectly free to leave whenever you please. No doubt your sheer stubbornness is the only reason you're still here at all."

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"This mansion is your humble flat?! How much of a superiority complex do you have!?" He spat in disgust at the Golden Goose's self-imposed self-important attitude. The Society for Arcane Sciences, his humble flat, the man shook his head in contempt. The nerve!

"And I'm not leaving until I get my flask which," he waved his hand repeatedly through the silver container, "is currently impossible thanks to you!

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Does this look like a bloody mansion to you?" asked an indignant Lewis, gesturing with his hand to the space around them. "Where's your head, man?" A half-pause, as he considered whether he ought to say--

"Oh, my apologies! I forgot! It's with your bloody body!"

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"No it does not! As I've stated before it's a hell hole but everyone at the bloody organization thinks it to be a d*mn mansion!" He shouted his face flush with emotion. "And you need to get this absurd idea that I'm dead out of your tiny bird brain before I throw you in Bedlam!"

He had enough of this Goose's game. He wanted his flask and then he wanted to find the end of this labyrinth!

To validate his existence, he patted his clothes and torso which were indeed solid to his touch and reiterated his point, "I AM NOT DEA--" But his voice cut shot as his hand collided with his pockets. His empty pockets. The man's face fell and grew pale with fear.

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Jekyll1886  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"This isn't the bloody Society, ya daft b******! It's my flat! And you're dead as a sodding doornail!"

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chatterghosts  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

(( DOVE FRIEND BELIEVES ))

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Catt Hatter  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

(8D)

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HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

( The fire crackles merrily in the infirmary's office, the last of the raindrops falling outside. Although the chill remains, the water had washed away all but the memory of yesterday's flurry. Cup of sweetened rose tea in hand, the doctor closes his eyes, snowflakes dancing gracefully behind their lids. The silence had been ominous but beautiful as the clusters of intricate flakes each landed with a gentle thud. Most beautiful of all, however, had been the way they sparkled and glimmered under the light when the sun broke through.

From snowflakes to rainbows, how strange and wonderful.

He saddens as his mind wanders aimlessly from the thought.

But hardly a consolation.

Little over two weeks had passed since the Bleeding Hearts Ball. Life had gone on and the magic was lost.

He takes a sip.

He was disappointed that he didn't get to have that dance of course, but it was hardly comparable to the loss the Madame had suffered. The Society would be lucky if she ever considered hosting another one. He'd stopped by to check in on her, but she was never in.

That left one possibility, that she'd retreated to the safety of the theater- jewels and fine fabrics her ostentatious security blanket.

Picking up extra hours, the telltale sign of a familiar coping mechanism. There's something more she must be avoiding.

He'd have to look further into it after he made sure that everyone else was safe within themselves.

At the very least, the Medics seemed to have taken the affair in stride if only as a result of their training. )

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis, too, had been rather busy lately. Between managing some of the Valentine's fallout and trying to keep his head above water financially, he'd had time for little else...until now.

And so it was that he met Dr. Rose at the appointed hour, finally to commence the activity they'd discussed.

Weir rapped upon the door to Hen's office.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( The door opens, not to reveal a tall brunette but a small blonde. On his face, he wears a smile as warm as the fire dancing in the hearth behind him.

He hadn't noticed the added coziness until the knocks reached through the wood to pull him back into the present. He steps aside ever so slightly.)

Hello

Old friend

The arm chair's been expecting you.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Thank you, Dr. Rose," returned Lewis, stepping in. "I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner," he apologized as he made his way to the chair in question. "Things...came up." He took a seat. "How've you been?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Not as busy as you, it would seem!

( He makes his way over to the kettle when his smile softens )

How are you holding up?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

Lewis let out a sound somewhere between a sigh and a laugh.

"I've been...better," he admitted. "And worse," he added, not wanting to complain. "Though I have had troubling dreams of late."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Troubling dreams...

( He removes the kettle from the fire and makes his way over to the cabinets. )

I imagine you'd want a soothing blend then

How does a nice cuppa peach sound?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Sounds lovely," he assented. "And yes, quite troubling. Far too much death. And a variation on the same nightmare, over and over. Likely representative of a problem I'm having trouble solving in my waking life, I imagine."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( He sets to work, opening various canisters and lifting teaspoons into the boiling water. Soon the air is filled with a fusion of peach and pineapple scents, notes of lemon verbena and chamomile and....lavender. He brings a tea tray containing the cups, milk, sugar, and cakes over and sets it on a footstool between the two chairs. He then takes his own seat across from Lewis. )

It sounds like you are quite aware of your subconscious. That's rather impressive.

What problem do you think you have trouble solving?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh, very," he agreed, to the doctor's first statement. "Side effect of my studies. One gets to know one's own mind quite well, be it the Conscious or the Unconscious." He helped his cup with sugar and poured the tea. "As to the problem...it's Hastie--Dr. Lanyon. I can't get it out of my head that he'll..." He stopped, took a sip, and gathered himself. "That he'll perish. At Hela's hands, at Richard's, at my own--for failing to save him. I can't...." He broke eye contact, and looked into his cup. "I couldn't bear the thought."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

If something were to happen to him, I'd imagine that it wouldn't be your fault. That aside, I find that when we are afraid, more often than not, our anxieties are rooted in a much deeper trauma than the one we project into our alternate futures.

( His gaze intensifies, concern radiating from him like the steam from the tea. )

You mentioned death earlier as well. Did something like this happen in your past?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

Lewis had been about to take another sip, but stopped short. He was silent for a moment.

"Yes," he said at last, still not looking up from the tea. "It did."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( Concern fades into something sweeter, softer. )

I'm very sorry. It must have been hard for you.

( He takes a heartfelt pause and raises his own cup to his lips. )

It is so difficult to process the loss of our loved ones. It's even harder to move on from the grief they leave behind. Have you ever thought of keeping a diary?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

Weir chuckled weakly.

"Oh, I've thought on Hastie's death quite long enough. No need for a diary. I know precisely how I feel about it, how it's affected me down through the years. I've just...never had the chance to talk about it. Not like this. That's something I've lacked." A pause. "I loved him, Dr. Rose. Never stopped loving him. Even when we had our quarrels, even when he abandoned me for a more 'respectable' life...even after he died. I love him still. Isn't it funny? His body's dust, his soul is who-knows-where. And yet this feeling will not leave me." He blinked rapidly, determined not to cry.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( Softly. )

It's okay to cry. Crying is the body's way of releasing that which is too much to carry.

If you'll excuse me, however... ( He rises from his chair and fetches the box of tissues on the desk. When he returns, he places them on Lewis's lap.

...I believe I neglected to provide you with the means to dry them. Crying is good for the body, but not so much for the skin.

When you come to know someone, they become more than a part of your life. They become a part of you. Even when our bodies turn to dust, we live on in the memories of those who treasured us. If he loved you as you love him, I'm sure he'd want you not to merely exist but to live, to truly thrive. Death is always difficult, but the memories don't have to be!

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis dabbed the tears before they had a chance to fall.

He gave a weak and bitter laugh.

"Maybe he once loved me. But we parted on the worst possible terms. By the end, he couldn't even stand the sight of me." He shook his head. "And I fell ill shortly after. By the time I was well enough to try to call on him again...it was too late. Hyde--or perhaps I should say Jekyll--had happened, and Hastie...was no more."

He let out a shaky breath.

"I even missed the funeral," he said, his voice a haunted whisper.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

You know, they say that anger is just love disappointed. If he'd never cared about you at all, it would have been nothing at all to snub you

...But he looked away, this is a telling sign.

If I had to guess, your illness was debilitating, maybe life threatening correct?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

"Yes," he said, able to look Dr. Rose in the eye again. "In point of fact, it...killed me," he confessed, "though I didn't realize it at the time. 'Thought I'd dodged the proverbial bullet when I woke up sound." A laugh, small and rueful. "'Wish Hastie could've done the same."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Immortality is a rather strange gift. Perhaps, in another world, Hastie did do the same.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

No further questions on "killed me", an objective part of his mind filed away, even as he processed the doctor's words.

"Perhaps," he returned.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( He gestures to the ceiling. ) I like to think that out there in the stars, there are worlds beyond our imagination. Infinite possibilities. We can't help the challenges we face here, but maybe in another life, they are different, lessened even.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Mayhap. Still, it's this Hastie I worry over. The one here, living, now." He shook his head. "This anxiety is affecting me in negative ways; it may impair my judgment."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

A reasonable concern given some of our personalities, but very toxic for you. When you feel anxious, what are some of the things you do to let go of the energy?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Aheheh," laughed Lewis. "They're, ah...perhaps not the best coping mechanisms, according to the traditional school of thought..."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

( The doctor's mouth forms a thin, but not entirely hard line.

He takes his cup and sips it.

A pregnant pause.

He sighs as he places the cup back onto its plate. )

It's tempting to want to act on the adrenaline, but the best medicine for an attack is always responsible self care. Avoid substances like alcohol and caffeinated drinks, take deep breaths, find an active hobby you enjoy. The city is really lovely around sunrise, maybe go for a brisk walkabout!

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

"Oh, I've a couple of active hobbies..." Weir trailed off, his pitch rising. "Would it be unseemly to speak of them in this setting? I do trust all this is under the seal of your profession."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( He raises an eyebrow. )

Your words are safe with me, but if they are unseemly then perhaps you should not be doing them.

I must remind you that risk taking behaviors like gambling and swinging will inevitably cause grave consequences.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Oh, not to worry; I don't gamble," he clarified. "By 'swinging', do you mean...liaisons?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

That's precisely what I mean.

Unprotected flings may feel good in the short term, but ultimately they will leave you with a growing void and diseases that will undermine your physical health as well as your mind.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Yet continually denying my...urges is simply not an option," he stated matter-of-factly. "Believe me, I've tried that now and again; it never ends well. My libido is incorrigible."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

And is that the only reason you seek such companionship?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"As far as 'flings', yes. It's purely physical. Though I want to be clear: I don't lead anyone on. They know what they're getting from the get-go. I often don't even make the first move." He shook his head. "As for what you'd call a proper 'relationship'...that's another matter. I'm not seeing anyone, though I'd be loyal if I were. I 'knew' no one but Hastie, when we were together. Nor did I even think to. It would've been a betrayal. I'd never--

"And here I am, speaking of Hastie again," he said with a bittersweet laugh. "We were to discuss...what was it again? Ah. Yes. Methods of coping. Right." He sipped his tea.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

It concerns me, regardless of whether you lead the conquests or not, because the motivation behind this behavior, rather an an expression of, often is actually an avoidance of these feelings of loss. It is quite common for those who share your lifestyle to have some history of abandonment or tragedy in their lives.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

Lewis went still as the truth of the words struck home.

"That's...fair," he said after a moment. "Though no more than many others, I'm sure. Still, you're not wrong," he admitted. "I've lost..."

Everyone. Everyone I've ever loved or cared for. Or will, eventually. Inevitably.

"...people. But we all do, as we go through life, don't we? It's the way of things."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( The corners of his mouth turn up into sad smile. ) It doesn't have to be.

With adequate self care and a little vulnerability, we can often make the world a brighter place.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"I intend to," he agreed. "That's why I've come to this dimension in the first place. That's why I do my work for the Society gratis; it's why I give advice to those who bother to listen when I see a problem I know how to solve. It's why I'm on call as the Velvet Orchid's doctor instead of working at a posh hospital; money doesn't determine personal worth," he declared adamantly...then realized he'd gotten caught up in his own impassioned speech, and gone on a bit of a tangent. He shook his head, then sipped more tea.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Money may not determine personal worth, but happiness does. It is great that you are doing all for us, but you must first take care of your own heart before seeking to mend others' and this starts with you.

Exercising proper self care.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"I probably ought to sleep more," he admitted. "Or sleep better, when I do." Not go traipsing about astrally all the bloody time. Damn it, Hela...

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

And adequately address your anxiety rather than suppressing it. That will do wonders for both your physical and your mental health. Take deep breaths, notice the world around you, go for a run. If you find yourself feeling dangerously on edge, come to me. I will always be here to talk you through it!

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"I used to do a bit of parkour, actually. Such a feeling of freedom! Nothing quite like it." He glanced briefly down at his cane, then back up at Dr. Rose. "Unfortunately, this walking stick's not just for show. Though it does come in handy when the company's...uncivil. And I do appreciate your being here, should I...get in a bad way." A pause. "There've been evenings, of late, where I've felt...low," he admitted. "Wondered what the hell I thought I was doing, trying to make a bit of difference here. 'Had trouble seeing a point, at times."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

As we all do at times. There are good days and bad days, and sometimes it is only through friendship that we are carried through the storm. There is no shame in being human

( He glances at the cane and back. )

Though if you had an opportunity to regain your ability, would you?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

"Not through any godlings," he declared as a matter of principle. "Ah, sorry," he apologized, then clarified: "Narrators. The ones who put me in such a state at Catt's party. Thank you for your help then, by the by. You have my gratitude."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

I understand your desire for free agency, hence my question. It is always of utmost importance to have the ability to make decisions for ourselves, hopefully more for the good than the bad, but if one of us had magic healing powers, would you accept the offer?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"You mean, we wee folk down here?" he joked, referring to humanity. "I might do. Depends what it entailed. But probably. I'd ask the cost first, though. Everything has its price."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( Rosy places his right hand on his knee. In the firelight, between his pointer finger and his thumb sits a gleaming peach colored gem. He smiles sweetly, tilting his head slightly. )

Not always. Some of us are given much that we may, in turn, give generously to those who need it.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"And what," asked Lewis, tilting his head at the stone with a smile before looking back to Dr. Rose, intrigued, "is that?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

For some, we are given money to to provide for the poor. For others, an abundance of crop to feed a starving town. For a few, we are given the ability to heal on the inside and out.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Do you mean...physically, in this case?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hopefully, the spirit as well...but yes.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Ah," said Weir, eyes widening for an instant. "That's...quite remarkable, really." He smiled...then frowned, as a possibility occurred to him. "This...healing--of, say, the flesh... Is it accomplished by spurring the body's own innate capacity to heal itself? Or does it act on the soul, effecting a change in physical form by tinkering with the spirit?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( This time, it is the doctor's turn to be surprised. His eyes flit to his gem and back. )

You know....that is a most excellent question! I've never really considered the means by which healing occurs. What would be the difference?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"The former will work on me. The latter won't," he stated simply.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

( He leans in, placing his head in his left hand. )

How fascinating! Does that bother you?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Is there a reason it should?" asked Lewis, puzzled, curious, and perhaps mildly concerned.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

You mentioned the Godlings earlier with an unmistakable conviction. Although my question was only partly rhetorical, it seems to have raised another, slightly more pressing one.

Does it bother you to know that there is a kind of ability that can alter your flesh?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"A little, if I'm honest. But--and this may seem odd, considering we've not been acquainted long--you don't seem the type to misuse it. And there are many phenomena in this dimension which are new to me."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( Though the muscles in his face hardly change, for a moment, his lips curl into a smile far sweeter than professional. )

Why thank you, that's such a kind thing to say!

I'll admit, this place isn't exactly my stomping ground either, but there are always constants. One of these is free agency. ( He tilts his head slightly. ) Regardless of how responsible the healer, it must be unnerving for you to face the prospect of relinquishing control. Is that something you've feared for long?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Does anyone relish the thought?" he asked. "Men have fought and died for the freedom to make their own decisions, to live their own lives. To not be interfered with. Society has its constraints, and we abide by them in order to continue to live in it. That's already a form of control, when you look at it. Though it does beat lawlessness.

"Sorry, I'm getting a bit off subject.

"As relates to me personally...my own father was very controlling. I imagine my feelings on the matter go back to that."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

As a place of refuge, I'd like to think that this could also be a place of healing. As such, apologies are by no means necessary. This is your time, do with it as you wish!

...There is light and there is dark and somehow, a balance must be maintained to prevent The Bleeding Hearts fiasco erm, accidents from occurring.

That being said, there are boundaries that mustn't be crossed. If your father made you feel the way you do, then no doubt your rights must have been infringed upon and that is a very sorry thing indeed!

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

Lewis nodded.

"I'm a firm believer in balance, myself. Enough give, enough take. That's life well lived.

"But, as to my father...on reflection, looking back... There's a part of me which knows it's only a matter of him being a man of his times. And limited by them. Yet there's another part which cannot help but hate him. And a third which sees the futility of the hate, and borders on forgiveness until I think of him again." He shook his head. "Things inside me are always so damnably complicated when it comes to him."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Aren't we all such complicated creatures?

It is true that often we are victims of circumstance, prisoners to our own race's devices. The complexity is beautiful and sad, both a blessing and a curse.

It is still important to accept all the contrasting feelings of course, but we don't have to keep them with us for the lessons to be learned.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"And yet...how do I let them go?" he asked, at a loss. "It's far easier said than done."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

It may seem that way at first, but when you truly remove the cause, the symptom too will vanish, like taking your first step. It's not exceptionally difficult, but it will require dedication to finish the marathon.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"That, I have in spades," he said with a nod of determination. "Where do we start?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

With you.

You've done a lot of analysis on yourself, an impressive feat!

It tells me that you are incredibly intelligent and self aware. Now that you have identified the triggers, you must study your reactions to them.

When something bothers you, try to maintain the balance within yourself. Take a step back and consider the mechanism and most importantly, you must care for yourself.

Rather than act on a negative impulse, sit with it and calm the body down instead. Drink warm soothing herbs, eat nutrient rich foods to boost your rationality, run or go swimming to strengthen your heart and lungs and to grant you an opportunity to learn to control them. Throw chairs and scream when you're angry! listen to comforting music and cry when you're sad! dance when you're happy!

Our emotions are what make us human, listening to them and responding to them wisely is what makes us healthy.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"I do own I get a mite crabbit when I'm hungry," Weir admitted. "And I've not been sleepin' as well as I should. It's as if the wheels fell off, these past few weeks." He shook his head. "I even threatened a patient, without thinkin'. Said some things I didnae mean to. In all fairness, it was Hela--and she'd threatened Hastie--but still...not a practice I need to make a habit of."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

When we push ourselves, these things happen.

( He smiles. )

Have you ever noticed how children recover so quickly from their tantrums?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"They can, if the parent tends 'em right."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

If they're let, they'll recover in their own time.

It's okay for children to cry, but as we grow older, society becomes less forgiving.

We go from dealing with things as they come to bottling our emotions and pushing them away because some lofty noble decides that they are unsightly.

The heart is like a balloon. Little by little we take our problems and we tuck them away so that we may be what everyone else wants us to...

( He pauses, the corners of his mouth pulling into a sad pout. )

...but they add up, and soon, there is no air left in our balloon to hold all the hurt and the anger and the resent that people may throw our way.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Oh, I've had nights of...well, of expressing emotions like that. Hurt, sadness, anger, frustration. It's just I've had to keep them tamped down at the Society so much lately. It's begun reaching the point where even if I empty those feelings each night, the next day brings so much more my way--and I have to keep control of myself in the moment, often for hours--that I get full up. That's when they start seeping out in ways I don't intend."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

It's only natural that the feelings keep coming back, you haven't been able to address their source!

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"Very well; let's explore the source--or sources--then. Where would you suggest we begin?"

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

How about your nightmare? what's in it?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

"It may begin differently, but inevitably Hastie dies. Sometimes, I've been out of town or away on an errand and come back just in time to witness it. Other times, I'm in the very same room with him but simply can't move fast enough to prevent it. Sometimes, it's Hela with a knife; she stands behind him and draws it across his throat and there's nothing I can do. Others, it's Richard and I walk into Hastie's office to see his corpse hanging by a noose made of its own intestines, the chest cracked open and hollowed out. And Prince in the corner, eating the heart. Other times, it's Edward Hyde--my dimension's Edward Hyde--with his hands about Hastie's neck, or beating him to death like he did Sir Danvers." He shook his head, a haunted look in his eye.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

A direct reflection of the tragedy you've faced, no doubt. Do you see anything else?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"It, ah..." He looked down and away. "It always has the same ending."

He took a sip of tea to calm himself, and reached for a tea biscuit as a means of distraction.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

I cannot make you do anything, nor do I want to do so....

... but you ought to know that you can speak of whatever it is that is bothering you if you wish to.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"I..." said Lewis, still debating with himself but feeling the need to tell someone. And Dr. Rose had promised confidentiality...

"In the dream, I...I see him there, dead, and I just--I can't--everything in me...I feel as if I'm falling and snapping awake all at once. The world inside me caves in on itself, and I see no point--no point at all--to anything. Anything I've ever done. Anything I ever hoped to do. Fate laughing in my face, tragedy dogging my heels--every terrible thing that's ever happened to me or been done by me. And I look at him and it is so grossly, abominably unfair that the world should continue to exist when he does not. That it should go blithely on while he begins to rot, never to be seen again, here or in any realm.

"And in that moment, I decide that, if he can't exist...neither should the world."

It had the ring of a confession, of admitting a mortal sin.

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( The ordinarily social doctor only nods, eyes holding not condemnation, but sympathy.

These are the truths of mankind. A natural instinct to want to watch the world burn.

He elects to withhold the world view statement.

There would be time for discussion once the confession is complete. )

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis held Dr. Rose's gaze, and found it...not only not condemnatory, but actually...sympathetic? He had hoped it would be so, but had still harbored the fear it wouldn't.

Perhaps, after all, he could tell the rest...

"And I...I undo all the progress that I've made, lost in a red haze as I tear down those around me. The murderer's the first to go, of course. But, as connected as everyone is there, others try to stop me, or want retribution, and I take them on, too. I've had the dream so often that I know precisely which strategy to use for each. I do get injured, usually, at some point. But I don't rightly care. I set fire to the building. And to others. I watch London burn. I use poison gas. Whatever it takes. 'Not one shall live', to paraphrase the Bard. And when I'm in it, I...it's simultaneously the best and the worst feeling in the world. I'm not certain how to explain it."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

You know, there is a saying that goes

"some men want to watch the world burn" but never have I ever had it literally described to me.

( He gives a quiet chuckle. )

That being said, it sounds like a horrifying experience but it speaks volumes about the troubles you're facing. Have you ever thought of forgiving Hastie's murderer?

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago • edited

Weir gave a small but genuine laugh at the joke.

He listened as Dr. Rose continued. Upon hearing the question, though, he could not help but laugh, an odd and somewhat rueful guffaw. One might almost say it sidled right up to the edge of madness, shook its hand, and then politely turned and walked away.

"Buh huh ha! Ha! Huh. Aheheh. Heh. Oh. Heh. Ha. Oh. Ho. Ah. Ha," laughed Lewis, trying to regain his composure.

He took in a breath, let it out.

"Apologies, I just...no one's ever asked me that and I...it's just such a thought."

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HenryRoseQuartz  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

( He raises his eyebrows with a second nod. )

It is, that's why I asked.

I wouldn't expect you to agree of course, especially this early in, but often the solution to one's innermost stumbling blocks is to face them head on.

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Jekyll1886  HenryRoseQuartz • 2 years ago

"No, it's just, I...I knew Henry Jekyll. And, of course, later, Edward Hyde. And Lanyon, and Utterson. I knew them all. But the reason it's funny, is...Henry and Edward--same man, really, when you get down to it--were my one successful case. D' ya see? I helped them reform. I cared for them. Even after Hastie's death. You don't just stop caring for someone. It...it may be hard, but ya go on. Salvage what ya can."

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RBDECEPTICON17 • 2 years ago

(Hey Hyde without a Jekyll i'm over here! X3)

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Hyde without a Jekyll  RBDECEPTICON17 • 2 years ago

(I'M SO SORRY FOR THE DELAY!!! I hope we can get the RP finished before I have to leave!)

At Rose's deceleration the man's eyes flickered up to Roses face then to the bird in question before returning to their original position focusing on the book. "I was wondering if you were mute," his smile grew a fraction wider, "Sixty pounds."

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RBDECEPTICON17  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

But the blonde wasn't gonna have it...and gently pressed her fist down onto the table.

"Thirty pounds." Rose retorted softly.

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Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

((Umm.... No rp here but... This happened...

Thumbnail

https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b4cd40c046e44b6aa7d42d4daa51ed2cec6a2e5e809d84a86a8d17843f9e322b.jpg?w=600&h=343

Enjoy???))

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

(( OH MY GOD!! LOOK AT IT!!! IT'S PERFECT!!! :DDDDDDDD *explodes from it's awesomeness))

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Jekyll1886  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

((IT'S BAT-HYDE AND ROBYLL! :DDDD ))

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Background Scientist #37  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

Alternate text for Jekyll:

-I thought batman was silent

-Hyde what

-Hyde why

-this is why we can't have nice things

-where did you get these

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

((XDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD They all fit so well!! ))

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Background Scientist #37  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

((I know! I could hardly decide what to put! Anyone else got anything? For a bit I was thinking of drawing a disapproving Rachel as well but then decided against it.))

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

((It was perfect none the less! And I think Rachel would probably be Bat Girl....or at least that's my head cannon. >///< ))

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Background Scientist #37  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

((YAAAAAAAASSSSSSSSS. Maybe someday...))

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Jekyll1886  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

((Rachel likely made them the costumes in the first place. XD))

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((Too true! XD))

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Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

(Background Scientist #37 Wizardblizzard Dr. H. Griffin The discussion timed out so I'd figure I'd just post something here.)

Alien: Gemma walked in, covered head to toe in flour, grumbling about the stupid chemists that decided that flour would be a good thing to explode in celebration. She noticed the amount of people in the kitchen and blinked a few times. Then she noticed they were all eating pancakes. "Ah... thats hwy your all hear. At least these ones aren't burnt like the last ones..." She wasn't bitter.

Wizardblizzard: "I never did hear what happened there," Isabella said thoughtfully. "Still - all's well that ends well, these are very good." *munches, before turning to Alice* "Yes thanks. This is certainly a new one on me. And this time there don't seem to have been any disasters so far..."

((end of recap))

"Thankfully!" Alice smiled at Isabella. Having cleared her plate, her eyes drifted to the table only to fall upon a familiar face, "If you excuse me I'm off to complement the cook!" With that Alice picked up her empty plate and strode over to Gemma.

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Background Scientist #37  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Gemma was standing in a corner of the kitchen, trying to brush the flour from her hair and clothing. She glanced up at Alice as she approached.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"Gemma!" Alice called out waving flour covered cook, "The pancakes are fantastic this morning!"

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Background Scientist #37  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"Thank you!" Gemma said. "What did you put on yours?"

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Dr. H. Griffin  Background Scientist #37 • 2 years ago

"What HASN'T she put on her's?" Griffin moodily replied.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Alice elected to ignore Griffin's comment instead addressing Gemma, "I made several! Making sure to tried all the jams, and the vegetables and all the other delicious things out there!" she gestured to the buffet table before continuing, "Which one did you like best?"

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Background Scientist #37  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

"I like the blueberry's the best. Take a wild guess why," she gestured to her head, a hint of a smile on her face.

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Wizardblizzard  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

((I think we're supposed to be two separate conversations.))

Isabella finished her first pancake and moved on to sugar and lemon.

"Optical fragmenter... sounds fascinating. What are you working on, or shouldn't one ask?"

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Dr. H. Griffin  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

"Invisibility."

Griffin made some tea; though he frankly hated it, it was something to do.

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Wizardblizzard  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

Isabella leaned forward, her interest evidently caught. "Wonderful. How are you getting on?"

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Dr. H. Griffin  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

"Pardon the language, but f*** all." Griffin angrily replied. His progress was anything but wonderful.

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Wizardblizzard  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago

She kicked at her chair, disappointed. "Sorry to hear that. Join the club. I'm going nowhere fast too..."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

"And what do you do?" Griffin asked.

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Wizardblizzard  Dr. H. Griffin • 2 years ago • edited

Isabella glanced over her shoulder to see if Alice and Gemma were listening. "Oh er. I've just been working on one thing I came up with quite a while ago now, in the chemical line... it never exactly worked right and I've been trying to see if I can work out what's the problem with it. But I'm not getting anywhere in fact I've run into a bit of a problem." She frowned. "You wouldn't by any chance know anything about bioluminescence? Living tissues and light? Kind of thing? I don't knwo exactly what your line of research is."

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Dr. H. Griffin  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

"Not living tissues per se, but light is quite fascinating to me. Optics, specifically." Griffin replied.

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Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago • edited

(Setae

(I'm so sorry on the delay!

Oh please do!! Draw all the cute little rats! :D Also sorry! I was wrong about the rats. I'm not sure what they put them on but they have what looks to be at least 3 different studies involving them. Dopamine and sexual behavior, dopamine and Parkinson's disease, and real-time animal telemetry form the looks of it. Honestly at this point I'm not entirely sure what the rats are used for as they could be one if not all of the following. I'll be sure to ask next time I'm helping out though! (XD Yah, I did start a bit early but luckily I found that there are no deadlines on volunteering! If there's a college near by then there's bound to be a lab. There also might be private labs around too but that's just something to keep your eyes out for as you travel about.) Oh! And here's a picture of what the rats look like!

Electrodes/surgery: So the electrodes are 0.2mm glass tapered at one end with a single carbon fiber, bismuth, and a steel wire within it. My boss uses these tubes in surgery. During surgery my boss sedates the birds slightly (according to PETA regulations as this whole process has been approved by them) but not enough to cause unconsciousness. He then inserts the electrodes through the skull and into the brain. Once inside the brain a small wire with an electrical current is connected to the steel wire the sticks out of the electrode. This electrical current is then connected to a machine (pretty sure the DS8R if not something similar) and a computer is run on the program which will measure, graph, and record the data. As the level of dopamine within the brain will affect the electrical current this is what allows us to detect it. Now the birds scream because they aren't completely out and if you had someone burning electrodes your brain so they could tell where it was when they dissect it later you'd probably scream too. After they complete the experiment (which I think runs for 15-30 minutes but don't quote me on that) they then "sacrifice them for science" upon which their brains end up on my cutting table the next day.

Brain Size: So the Starling brain is a bit smaller than the rat's brain but both are roughly the size of an average D20 or an inch in diameter give or take.

Subjects: XD Well I'm not sick math yet and I hope never do otherwise that'll make things real difficult. Biology with a focus on animals!? Awesome!! And Chemistry tends to do that I find. ;)

Funny story

Probably one of my favorite stories right up there with Invasion of the Pokemon invasion, Twenty Four Dead Birds, and The Nexus of Disappointment Sends an Email, has got to be The Pink Geckos. It is one of my weirdest stories and one of my favorites to tell! :D

Before I get started however you need to understand the superiority system of the lab. The lab is run by the Doctor (not The Doctor from Doctor who but a Doctor who's a professor at the university. For the sake of privacy I won't be using anyone's real name.) who obtains most of the grant money, the labs, and allows the grad students to work there. Under him are several Grad students who all have a thesis in animal neuroscience (specifically birds and rats...though the Doctor mainly focuses on birds). The grad student I work under we'll name him Carter. He's the one who works on studding the dopamine levels in Starlings and the Doctor enjoys making fun of him endlessly! ENDLESSLY! It's their relationship and all fun in games. Finally the other Grad student who's often there when I'm volunteering...we'll name her Danielle. She's a grad from Canada come here to study the affects of blood sucking mites that inhabit Starling's nest and the affects that they can have on the young.

A brief insight to their relationship as to understand the dynamics. So in the lab we are allowed to have food but we can only eat on the office side where all the paper work is done so it doesn't contaminate the projects on the lab side. Thus you have the Invisible Food Line.

One day I was enjoying a snack on the office side of the lab where Danielle and Carter were working. Upon seeing me eat Carter decided this was a brilliant idea, pulled out an apple, and began to munch upon it as he went over to the lab side to check upon a few slides. As soon as he stepped over the Invisible food line, however the lab door swings open revealing the Doctor. Carter stopped apple in mouth. The Doctor stopped in the door frame. They stared at each other and you could hear the western show down music play as Danielle and I watched the spectacle unfold.

Carter then bit down upon the succulent red fruit with a echoing crunch as he took another step further into the lab.

"Carter!" The Doctor shouted with a knowing twinkle in his eye, "What are you doing!?"

"Um..." He swallowed the apple as he choked out the next words in confusion, "Eating...my apple?"

The Doctor glared at him with a humorous smile tugging at his lips.

"In... the lab?" Carter then caught on to the doctor's ruse and in an act of defiance hysterically chuckled, "Cause I'm hungry! And I wanna eat my apple!"

At this point Danielle pulls out a cupcake, "God Carter! Don't you know to stay on the right side of the food line!?" She grins walking across said food line and leaning upon the counter next to the gallon tub that held her billions of blood sucking mites. "Do you want to ruin everyone's work?!" She took a bite of chocolate pastry.

"You know what!?" Carter replied his voice on the edge of laughter, "I DO!" And with that he chomped down upon the apple traveling to the other side of the room leaving the three of us behind to watch the cloud of dust that blew up behind him.

The Doctor had watched the entire scene before shaking his head, "Carter, you are a disappointment to scientists everywhere.," The Doctor replied in a monotone voice that contrasted with the massive grin on his face, before turning on his heel and leaving the lab. We could hear him genuinely laughing down the hall as he returned to his office.

While yes there is a so called Invisible Food line, no one respects it as the building we work in was built during the 70s and the counters disintegrate when you clean them. But like the building, the people who work (and sometimes sleep) in it have just as much character.

Now that I hope you have an understanding of the people, you'll be able to enjoy this lovely story even more! As it was one of the oddest things that has happened to me! :D

Just a normal Tuesday in the lab and I'm taking my snack break with Danielle and Carter and the Doctor who's seeing how everyone's doing. As the conversation between Carter and the Doctor lulls, Danielle turns and asks, "Have...either of you seen lizards at night?"

We all stop and turn to stare at her in confusion. For clarification we live in the Midwest where the only reptiles that live in the wild are snakes. Any lizard that might be running around outside would freeze to death in the winter. We have no native lizards.

Carter is the first one to break the awkward silence. "What?"

"Lizards ." Danielle repeats, "Sometimes at night, when I'm walking through the halls I'll see lizards running past!"

We continue to stare at her waiting for the punchline of the joke but it never comes. She's dead serious!

Carter breaks the silence again, "You haven't been drinking ethanol from the cabinet have you?" He says jokingly.

"Ha ha. No!" Danielle glares back, "They're real! I saw one last night! Tiny. Pink. Lizards!"

At pink the Doctor's face lights up with recognition and his iconic smirk spreads upon his face as the twinkle in his eye shines bright, "OH! The Pink Geckos!"

We then all turn to stare at him waiting for an explanation.

Danielle breaks the silence this time, "So you have seen them!"

The Doctor beams as we wait for him to share some of his infinite knowledge. But he just smiles.

I raise my hand and break the silence, "Pink geckos?"

He then pulls up a chair before telling one of the strangest stories, "About 20 years ago a man I knew worked in the green house attached to this building. They were having some severe bug problems with the plants and not wanting to use pesticides on the experiments he went out and bought a dozen pink geckos from the pet store. Seeing how he'd bought both male and female geckos he'd hoped to create a balanced eco-system where the geckos would live off of the rampant insects. The geckos would provide free all-natural pest control and with both genders in the greenhouse they would be able to reproduce for generations thus becoming a one time expense.The idea worked perfectly! Geckos disappeared into the foliage to work their magic and the insects disappeared."

"But a few weeks went by and we noticed it wasn't just the insect population in the greenhouse that diminished but the population of the entire building. No one really questioned it as those noisy stray EMO crickets quit being such pests but it wasn't until we started seeing things out of the corner of our eyes that we became concerned. Slowly the evidence piled up. Students seeing small creatures running through the halls at night. The lack of summer pests. Noises to which no source could be found. We thought the science hall might have become haunted like the library! [Side note the college library is haunted, infamously so.] Eventually I met up with the man and asked him about it to which he turned sheepishly bright red and took me to his greenhouse. Once inside he pulled back several lush branches to reveal a massive hole in the wall. Such a hole that connected the greenhouse to the rest of the building. "The Geckos have escaped.""

We sat there our mouths agape by the fantastical tale. The Doctor's eyes twinkled even brighter as he continued, "As it turned out the pink pet store geckos escaped into the main building and are currently living within the walls and pipes. You'll see them occasionally on the windows and in the halls at night, and sometimes if you move a trashcan and find a dried-dead-crusty one."

"But...how have they survived all these years?! Have you done anything about them?!" I asked.

The Doctor shrugged the smirk never leaving his face, "Not really. I mean they help with the stray cricket and they keep the pest control down for the whole building."

Baffled by his tale Carter and I stared while Danielle spoke. "So you mean to say the tiny lizards," she held up her fingers indicating two inches with her fingers, "that I see running through the halls at night. Are Pink Geckos that have lived in the walls of this building for 20 years?"

"Well, no." The Doctor replied waving off the idea, "Those are just the babies the adults are much larger."

"Larger!?" Carter gasped.

"Larger." The Doctor confirmed standing up, "Now what are you doing wasting all this time, Carter, don't you have work to get done?" he chuckled stepping out of the lab, closing the door behind him.

I sat there staring at the walls wondering if the geckos were in there now, watching us from their silent perches but my thoughts were interrupted as Carter shouted at the closed door, "BUT YOU WERE TELLING US--"

"He's gone, Carter." Danielle snickered.

"I know." He sighed before slumping back into his chair and we all returned to work.

Now this isn't the end of the story for I couldn't get the idea out of my head. The next day at school during my free period I reiterated this story to 2 of my friends. At first I thought they believe my wild tale but it became clear that they did not.

"Geckos?" One of them asked.

"Yes! And they live in the walls!" I replied excited by the prospect.

"Pink geckos!" The other snickered.

"I bet their drug dealing pink geckos!" The first one chimed in.

"Shape shifting drug dealing pink geckos!"

This continued on for some time until the Pink Geckos that lived with in the walls and pipes of the science hall were now alien shape-shifting vampire drug-dealing pink geckos.

"You don't believe me!" my brow furrowed and I stated, "The lab's a fifteen minute walk from the school!"

"No! No HJ!" They replied snickering, "We believe in the alien shape-shifting vampire drug-dealing pink geckos."

"Fine!" I threw my hands in the air, pivoting on my heel and shouted over my shoulder, "Let's go!"

Now our high school was very close to the college not to mention the fact that the school's really chill with kids leaving the building during our free periods as long as we make it back to class on time. Thus I had an hour to prove to them the Pink Geckos were as real as the sun in the sky. Now keep in mind that this was also spirit week at my school. America day to be precise which meant we looked a bit...odd. One of my friends was dressed her traditional Native garb while my other friend looked as though the america flag had throw up upon her, and finally I wore a T-shirt that displayed the British flag made out of TARDISes.

Upon making the trip over there my friend who was impersonating the American flag had removed her shoes, opting to carry them until we returned back to the high school.

Now inside the science hall our first stop was the lab only to find Carter, Danielle, and the Doctor were all out for the day. Now with only 25 minutes left to prove my point I opted that we searched the building, to which my friends happily agreed as this was ~an adventure~. Thus three high school girls (one dressed in her traditional Native out fit and another doing an excellent impression of a shoe-less America flag, led by the third who's face was as serious as though her life depended upon it) scoured the halls of the science building, passing by college students huddled in classrooms and littering the hallways, searching the walls and ceilings and windows for the elusive Pink Geckos. Needless to say, we got a lot of odd looks.

We searched on the top floor and in the basement. We found the sketchy boiler room and the greenhouse (who had a hole in the wall that took up half of the wall) but never a pink gecko. I was beginning to lose hope when I turned around and saw my friend (the one in her traditional clothing) waving at someone in an office.

"What are you doing?!" I hissed worried that we might have disturbed a class. For that would be a difficult conversation to have: I'm so sorry for disrupting your studies but we were looking for the pink geckos that live in the walls and pipes of this building....have you seen any? Shaking the horrid scenario from my head I gave a panicked look at my friend.

"Waving!" She cheerfully called back as she smiled and continue to wave at the open door.

"Do you know that man?" I asked as we gathered around her.

"Nope!" She chirped.

"Don't wave at strangers!" I quickly began pushing her with the aid of the American flag down the hall and out of view of the strange man, "We don't want to bother him!"

"But he waved first!" My friend protested.

"Maybe he knew something about the vampire geckos." The flag jokingly laughed.

I stopped, "Maybe he does..."

Turning on my heel I strode back to the office where a small man sat grinning surrounded by dozens of broken computers. "Pardon me sir, do you have a minute?"

"Of course! Come in!" He replied his eyes laughing at the unexpected display before him.

We walked in. I stood in front of his desk with my friend in her traditional Native outfit on my right and the shoe-less american flag on my left.

"Would you mind answering a question for us?" I asked hoping that he wouldn't call campus police on us.

"I can try." He replied with a smile.

"Do you know anything about," I paused looking right, then left, before leaning in close and lowing my voice, "The Pink Geckos?"

"Of course! I've even seen one!" His face instantly lit up and my friends jaws hit the floor. I grinned as he continued on to tell the exact same story the Doctor told me. How 20 years ago pink geckos were released into the greenhouse only to escape into the walls and pipes where they now live.

Once he finished and my friends were speechless and I pressed further, "You said you saw one?"

"I did indeed!" The man beamed, "When they were doing construction last year on the building the workers kept finding pink geckos in the walls. One of the men even caught one in a jar and showed it to me! It was an adult too!" He exclaimed holding up his fingers to indicate 7 inch long lizard.

"And what did they do to the lizards?" The flag on my left shoulder asked.

"Probably put them back in the walls after the construction was over." The man shrugged.

My friend on my right nodded her head at this, "Back to their natural habitat."

After that the story spread like wild fire around the school to the point where if you go to the library and mention "The Pink Geckos" several people will pop out of the wood work shouting "WHAT ABOUT TO THE PINK GECKOS!?!?". And I know this from experience as it has happened to me before....several times. )

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Setae  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Dude, this story is the best! Also the titles! XD Do you actually have them all written down somewhere? This kinda made my day. And I did doodle something while in class. I really like your friends' imagination.

https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/5b4d01c6c82e6d9469b63f79db232866ae95930448a41ba2ad7b43cac8748a5a.jpg?w=600&h=422

I couldn't help picturing picturing your Doctor as, well, the 10th Doctor anyway. That probably made me giggle even more. Your colleagues sound great!

- with regards to the picture: Naaww, little science-experiment!

- wrt actual science experiment: Fascinating. Though feel a lot more sorry for the starlings now than the rats. Can I ask what you're looking for in the microscope then?

-Yes, mammal-brains beat bird-brains! Suck it, avians!

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Setae • 2 years ago • edited

I seriously cannot f***ing believe that y'all drew this, I am so happy right now, I cannot even FATHOM

* just f***in dies because holy sh*t*

-Rowan ("back to their natural habitat")

(I'll [HJ] will respond more formally later when I have a minute but I just wanted you to know I showed my friend, from the story, your picture and they flipped as you can see above. ;) [I also flipped and I love the Alien shape-shifting vampire drug-dealing pink geckos being hugged by the hippy drugged up rats! XD ] )

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Setae  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

^v^ :DDD

Yay! Very happy to hear that!

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Setae • 2 years ago

Sorry about the delay! Finally got some time to sit down and write you a proper response.

I do not have any of them written down but I really should. Often I just share these by word of mouth and enough people ask and I remember the events well enough that I can get back into the scene and retell it. The only problem is I'll forget about the different tales until something jogs my memory. The titles I listed above are a couple of my favorite lab stories I remember and oh goodness do they make me smile just thinking about them. I would be more than happy to write another one down for you, considering how much you liked it! :D AND YOUR PICTURE!! HOT D*MN! Rowan and I were freaking out about it for a solid 15 minutes about how perfect it was! I've got it saved to my computer and she saved it to her phone! I'm planning on showing it to my other friend in the story tomorrow!

XDDD The 10th Doctor! Oh man that's good! To be honest he looks far similar to the 7th Doctor, very similar. And yah! My colleagues are certainly interesting that's for sure, and I wouldn't have them any other way! ;D

Microscopes: So after I cut, mount, and stain the brains we look for different things. Doing a Nissl stain it color codes the different structures of the brain in different shades of purple. This allows us to see exactly where the electrode was during surgery and see if we were in our target region of the brain or not and hopefully explain the readings we may get. The other type of stain (which I do not recall the name for) I believe stains regions of highly concentrated dopamine shades of brown. From there we just use the microscopes for more detailed data.

XDDDDDDDDDD I AGREE! In my opinion mammal-brains are far better not only for thinking but also for cutting and the range of atlases is by far more expansive!

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Setae  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Nah, it's fair, these are getting pretty long. I saw your story pretty early too, but I wanted to have better time to write a response aswell. But I assure you it was a great start to the morning :D

I wholly agree on that. I'd read them, you have a guaranteed audience here! If you feel up to it, then yes please, one more story!

Dang. Im really flattered 😊 Glad you like it!

The 7th Doctor. That's actually even better XD He also looks more like an excentric scientist-type person.

Fully understandable :)

Ooh, I see. Again, thank you for indulging me. I really think your work is fascinating. I'd love to work with similar stuff one day.

XD I think us mammals kinda have a rivalry going on with birds, intelligence-wise. Good to hear you think we're superior!

As an aside, what do you mean by 'the range of atlases'?

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Wizardblizzard  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

I'm not sure who you mean but I don't think you mean PETA!

The gecko story AND the invisible food line story are brilliant :-D

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

PETA stands for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. They regulate how the surgery are done and they make sure all the science is preformed in a fashion that is not animal cruelty. I've got there website here if you want to know more! :) http://www.peta.org/

I'm so glad you liked them! XD It really makes my day to hear that considering I've got endless stories like that and I always enjoy sharing them with people and making them smile at the insanity that is my life! If you can laugh at yourself and the crazy situations you find yourself in, it makes the world a little brighter! :D

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Lab rats and other lab animals are covered under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

PETA is a phony charity that actually kills more animals than it rescues. They have been known to steal people's pets and kill them in their shelters. Meanwhile, the money donated to them either lines the pockets of the leaders, or goes to making flash games that aim to teach people that Pokemon promotes animal abuse.

Seriously HJ, if you truly care about animals, stay away from PETA.

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

It might have been them I'm just not sure. I can ask next time I'm there. I can tell you that if we were doing something that wasn't approved we would have a lot of people trying to shut us down very very fast.

And will do! I didn't know that about PETA but thank you for telling me!

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

The AWA isn't a charity or anything, it's a federal law.

And you're welcome, I hate to see people get baited by "charities" like PETA and Autism Speaks! Always be sure to research charities!

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Hyde without a Jekyll  Mz.Hyde • 2 years ago

Ah okay! I'm not entirely educated on that side of the scientific process as the Doctor and Carter usually handle most of the paper work.

Oh of course! I do appreciate foresight as there are so many out there I find they can easily mislead people and slip under the radar.

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Wizardblizzard  Hyde without a Jekyll • 2 years ago

Oh, I know who PETA are, thanks. I just thought they were strictly anti so I was surprised to find them "approving" this. Anything is better than nothing though, of course, so I could see why they'd be interested in trying to improve things that they couldn't stop entirely - but I doubt if "approved" was the expression they used, was it? (Also the word "regulated" threw me off as I thought you must be talking about something official.)

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Guest • 2 years ago

(Let's see... I'm on Deviantart and I also have Google Hangouts.)

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Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

(( Hastie Lanyon A continuation of the RP from way, way back! ))

Mr. O'Donnell had fixed Hela's door, with the additional modification of moving its hinges to the outside of the room. Lewis thought it best to leave her to think over her actions. He and Hastie had gone to Lanyon's office for a word.

"Well," admitted Weir, "that could have gone better."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

* Hastie sat behind his desk; glass of whiskey in his hand and feet propped up on the desk.*

I had hoped on a better first impression, yes...

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

"I apologize for that...display," said Lewis, settled in a chair across from Hastie. "Things escalated rather more quickly than anticipated; I couldn't risk your safety."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

* Hastie chuckled at his words.*

You did give me quite a lovely bruise... what do you think? Do you dare take her outside?

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

"At this juncture...I'm afraid not. I had hoped she'd have the capacity to listen to reason--believe it or not, some Hydes do." A look of chagrin. "She's not one of them, apparently. Not yet, anyway."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Looks like we've got a long road ahead of us! *Hastie got up and poured Lewis a glass as well.* Luckily you're a pretty decent collegue, Doctor.

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Hastie Lanyon  • 2 years ago

I should think so, if she values her life... *Hastie paused, unsure of how to formulate his thoughts.*

It's not possible, then, to seperate Helen from Hela? They're bound together forever?

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago • edited

"Even were it possible...I wouldn't advise it. Hela would be positively unreformable. Helen would lack her own drives; she'd have no passion. Additionally, they'd still be linked, after a fashion: Should one perish, the other would die as well. And with an unrepentant Hela eventually doing something stupid, that would be the likely outcome."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Hmm... *Although expected, Lewis' answer wasn't the one Hastie had been hoping for. In his heart he doubted that Hela could change for the better. He only saw a maniac torturing his friend.*

Let's hope that she'll change her mind soon, then. *Hastie emptied his glass and decided against refilling it. It wouldn't do to get tipsy now.*

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

"I doubt it will be soon," laughed Lewis, "but I'd settle for 'eventually'." He took a swig of his own drink. "Hydes are a stubborn lot, but not unreachable. It simply takes persistence, and the right methods. And I can be rather relentless myself," he said with a knowing smile.

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Heh, I don't doubt you can. So, is the plan to keep coming back until she gives in? Maybe hypnotise her into saintly goodness?

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

"Yes, to the first. Though the second is an amusing thought..." He chuckled. "In any case, I plan to wear her down. That's often what it takes. Put her in a controlled environment, teach her that her actions have repercussions--be they positive or negative. Hydes can be quite short-sighted at times. I'll seek to remedy this, be it through observable consequences or by simply speaking with and listening to her."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

What do you need me to do? Cook up more HJ7? Stay here and lock the door in case Hela breaks free? Hold your hand while you try to talk some sense into her?

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

Lewis smiled.

"HJ7 would be very helpful. The most efficacious option would be the particular variation Helen devised. I don't know if there's a record of it on hand, but we may need it in order to converse with Helen, or jolt Hela out of an arc of destruction. Speaking of Helen, we'll need some opium, or at least laudanum, to help ease her out of her addiction to the serum."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

I can get the opium, at least... *Hastie thought for a moment and sighed before speaking again.*

Catt, you may have met her, has some of Helens work. If we're lucky she could have parts of - if not the whole - recipe for Helens HJ7... But she might not want to give them to me.

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

Lewis nodded.

"Why not?"

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Ideological differences, so to speak. She's quite protective of Hela, and doesn't necessarily approve of where I stand on the matter. I can talk to her, but it might not be fruitful.

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

"I'd appreciate it," said Weir. "By the by, what would you say are the differences in that regard? How severe are they?"

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

* I might need that drink after all...*

I want to protect these Lodgers at all costs, Lewis, I have to. If that means killing Hela and drag Helen down along with her then I would. Catt would never allow it, of course.

But now Hela is safely-ish locked up in her room where she won't be able to harm anyone, so finding a way to coexist is the next best thing, I suppose.

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

"I can understand that," Lewis acknowledged with a grim nod to Hastie's first statement, then continued, "but agree coexistence is the best bet for now. I think we should all prefer it that no one dies."

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Hastie Lanyon  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

* Hastie stayed in his chair thinking for a few moments longer, before rising from his seat.*

Well, opium it is. I'll get in touch with Catt afterwards. You'll find your way around the place, won't you?

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Jekyll1886  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago • edited

"Certainly," said Lewis, rising. "And...thank you, Hastie."

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Catt Hatter  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

((When did Catt tell Hastie about the notes?))

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Hastie Lanyon  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(I don't think he got it directly from Catt... oh god how DID he get it..? I should really write these things down.)

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Catt Hatter  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

(We could say it was mentioned in passing, since she does want what's best for Helen. Maybe around when Hela first surfaced?)

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Hastie Lanyon  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(We could certainly say that.)

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Catt Hatter  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

(Perfect! Let's do that then.)

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Hastie Lanyon  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(Nice to see you again, by the way!)

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Catt Hatter  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

(You too! How ya been?)

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Hastie Lanyon  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(Fairly busy, but I'll prevail. How about you?)

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Catt Hatter  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

(Same. On the job hunt again, it's going pretty slowly, but I'm in contact with an employment agency so I should be happy and working again soon!)

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Hastie Lanyon  Catt Hatter • 2 years ago

(Well, that's something at least. I hope you'll find a job soon!)

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Catt Hatter  Hastie Lanyon • 2 years ago

(Thanks! :D)

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Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

Isabella was by herself in one of the labs, mixing something and frowning to herself.

(( Jekyll1886 Just remembered, weren't you wanting to talk to Isabella a while ago, about magic or something? Sorry it took so long for me to get my act together!))

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Jekyll1886  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

((No worries there! 'Glad you're feeling up to getting back in the swing of things! :-) ))

There was a soft rapping at the laboratory door.

"Miss Walker?" came Lewis's voice.

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Wizardblizzard  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((I'm not, but I'm going to try anyway! ;-) Got to do SOMETHING with the time.))

"Come in!"

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Jekyll1886  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

((Oh, well, I do hope you feel better soon, then.))

"Thank you," said Weir, and entered, closing the door behind him. "How are things going for you, lately?"

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Wizardblizzard  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuunsp oabem,kdjsl,cmxkdjc v,djsfv,ndjslkvnidcmv,kdxokkdmcjskx vfdkcmvks,d vksdcmvikdsvfkdcvdsl,cmvkdcb vikdfkiek,bcfrkefvbckdsc v,slcjoflcso;.vmlfkg,bmkfdp,m

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Wizardblizzard  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

dslfkneoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

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Wizardblizzard  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

gfvggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggg

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Wizardblizzard  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

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Wizardblizzard  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

I apologise. I just needed to scream. Better now (slightly).

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Jekyll1886  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

((Perhaps you ought best lie down...?))

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Wizardblizzard  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((Oh hullo. Not option I'm afraid.

I'm just fed up to the back teeth because... STUFF has been happening. And the only thing that makes me feel better at he moment at times like that is to go and play "The Ur-Quan Masters" until I feel better. And someone else has annexed the room where the computer is (the one that runs that) so I can't even do that.))

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Jekyll1886  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

((Oh, no! 'Sorry to hear that. I wish you the best of luck in that case.))

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Wizardblizzard  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((and thanks very much! I feel better having someone to talk to.))

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Jekyll1886  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

((I'm glad. :-) ))

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Wizardblizzard  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

((It's a long haul, this one.))

"Oh, hello Dr Weir." Isabella rolled up a sheet of filter paper and stood it on its edge in the dish of liquid. "They're not going, to any extent that's visible with the naked eye." She left the dish to its own devices. "LatelyI only ever seem to have odd minutes to work on anything, and when I do get a chance to, I can't think of anything anyway. How's the world treating you? I haven't spoken to you since... don't know."

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Jekyll1886  Wizardblizzard • 2 years ago

"It's been some time," he agreed. "Life's been keeping me on my toes, lately, I'm afraid," he said with a faint laugh. "My apologies for not seeking you out sooner."

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