bajamutblast (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
bajamutblast) wrote2025-03-03 11:54 am
bajamutblast) wrote2025-03-03 11:54 am
Inbox/Notes
I won't make this prettier what are you talking about.
Notes:
- Gigaflare (March) = 3x Remaining
Notes:
- Gigaflare (March) = 3x Remaining
[ The invitation to come by the clinic had only been made yesterday, but Joshua finds himself eager to see Dion again anyway. Whether that be out of concern for the other man - he'd been through quite a lot back at home, and now this - or because he's indeed taking Clive's suggestion to catch up to heart, he isn't entirely settled just yet. Perhaps a combination of both things.
Tea can easily be found in the kitchens, but considering the inn rooms have their own small kitchen areas, Joshua has gone ahead and selected a small tin of it to bring along with him. Coming to a new world like this is stressful enough, and a good cup of tea is just the thing to help.
He's figured out which room belongs to Dion, and he politely knocks on the door, waiting with his hands folded behind his back, only partially to obscure his gift. Hopefully, Dion is actually in. ]
Tea can easily be found in the kitchens, but considering the inn rooms have their own small kitchen areas, Joshua has gone ahead and selected a small tin of it to bring along with him. Coming to a new world like this is stressful enough, and a good cup of tea is just the thing to help.
He's figured out which room belongs to Dion, and he politely knocks on the door, waiting with his hands folded behind his back, only partially to obscure his gift. Hopefully, Dion is actually in. ]
[Presently, Dion is polishing his lance. This isn't innuendo, he is currently half-bent over the thing, working at it with a towel. This is not making anything better but it is what it is.
It is a touch surprising that someone has found their way to Dion's quarters. He hasn't made an effort to tell anyone where he is, and he's been very careful to ensure that he hasn't been followed at any point. Nevertheless, as he sets the towel to the side and stands up, he makes sure he has his lance at the ready. It'll be the first thing Joshua sees as he opens the door and - ]
Ah. I was not aware you knew where I was staying.
[The inn is big and full of rooms, after all. But anyway, he's quickly leaning his spear up against the wall nearby with one hand, while motioning Joshua in with the other.]
I would apologize for having no refreshments to offer but. [A nod to the tin within his hands.] It seems you have already seen to that.
It is a touch surprising that someone has found their way to Dion's quarters. He hasn't made an effort to tell anyone where he is, and he's been very careful to ensure that he hasn't been followed at any point. Nevertheless, as he sets the towel to the side and stands up, he makes sure he has his lance at the ready. It'll be the first thing Joshua sees as he opens the door and - ]
Ah. I was not aware you knew where I was staying.
[The inn is big and full of rooms, after all. But anyway, he's quickly leaning his spear up against the wall nearby with one hand, while motioning Joshua in with the other.]
I would apologize for having no refreshments to offer but. [A nod to the tin within his hands.] It seems you have already seen to that.
[ Oh. That is certainly a lance greeting him as the door opens. Joshua's eyebrows raise, and his eyes widen just a little. But it's understandable - Clive had taken control of opening the door for at least the first week, and had even pushed furniture in front of the window for a while. It makes sense that they all would be on edge so shortly after arriving.
As it lowers back and disappears, he simply smiles, relaxing his shoulders. ]
I am quite good at figuring things out, unfortunately.
[ But Dion doesn't seem to be opposed to his visit, at least. He steps inside as he's invited in, setting the tin of tea on the table as he goes. It's... so strange, seeing a freshly occupied room. Even in the two months he and Clive have been here, they have accumulated some things.]
It is a blend of tea that I found down in the kitchens. I've become rather fond of it. I can make some for us, if you're amenable?
As it lowers back and disappears, he simply smiles, relaxing his shoulders. ]
I am quite good at figuring things out, unfortunately.
[ But Dion doesn't seem to be opposed to his visit, at least. He steps inside as he's invited in, setting the tin of tea on the table as he goes. It's... so strange, seeing a freshly occupied room. Even in the two months he and Clive have been here, they have accumulated some things.]
It is a blend of tea that I found down in the kitchens. I've become rather fond of it. I can make some for us, if you're amenable?
[That Joshua doesn't startle terribly at the lances prsence is relieving, to say the least. The last thing Dion wanted to do was offend him, or put him off. Saint that he is, though, the Phoenix doesn't even bring it up.]
That you are, Phoenix. We would not have been nearly as well-equipped back home if not for your knowledge.
[It isn't just that Dion is new to this room that keeps it sterile. He's used to rarely having his own quarters. An army tent filled with his armor and a place to sleep far more familiar to him. Perhaps he might have set up as such, if not for the presence of the Brand on his arrival.
His room isn't entirely without its touches, though. The bathroom, for example, has three poultices laid out, and a nearly used roll of bandages. And of course, there is the half wilted Wyvern Tail placed in a coffee mug, sitting on the kitchnette counter.
Said flower is spotted and wordlessly moved to the bedside table, making room for Joshua to work.]
By all means. Make yourself comfortable.
[Dion gives him a nod before... taking a step back. He feels a little stiff and unsure. Being in Joshua's presence is one thing, but in such a small, intimate setting? Something about it makes his head threaten to spin.]
That you are, Phoenix. We would not have been nearly as well-equipped back home if not for your knowledge.
[It isn't just that Dion is new to this room that keeps it sterile. He's used to rarely having his own quarters. An army tent filled with his armor and a place to sleep far more familiar to him. Perhaps he might have set up as such, if not for the presence of the Brand on his arrival.
His room isn't entirely without its touches, though. The bathroom, for example, has three poultices laid out, and a nearly used roll of bandages. And of course, there is the half wilted Wyvern Tail placed in a coffee mug, sitting on the kitchnette counter.
Said flower is spotted and wordlessly moved to the bedside table, making room for Joshua to work.]
By all means. Make yourself comfortable.
[Dion gives him a nod before... taking a step back. He feels a little stiff and unsure. Being in Joshua's presence is one thing, but in such a small, intimate setting? Something about it makes his head threaten to spin.]
[ He understands! And he trusts Dion not to use it against him. It's as simple as that, really. ]
Books tend to be your friend when you spend a large amount of your time indoors. I've a thirst for it.
[ Both during his childhood spent inside while suffering from frequent illnesses, and those three years he spent recovering from the five-year coma that he'd been knocked into by Ifrit at Phoenix Gate. But! He doesn't need to burden Dion with all of that, so he says nothing.
As he moves to the kitchenette, he does take note of some things. The poultices in the bathroom - three, he mentally notes, and a roll of bandages that will surely be used up by week's end, if not sooner. The fact that Dion is injured to the point of needing a new roll... He will bring one by, if Dion doesn't visit him at the clinic first.
The Wyvern Tail in the mug, which is being moved out of the way. Joshua's head tilts curiously at it as Dion gets it out of his way. Surely not the one he'd offered at the tent that day... But it is wilted.
He doesn't judge Dion's need to hang on to it, though. Wilted or no, it is... a reminder, he supposes. And it isn't as though they can easily find new ones, should he want one. He takes the kettle, filling it with water, unaware of Dion's stiffness behind his back. ]
How are you settling in? Is anything troubling you?
[ In terms of adjusting, of course. It's mostly like home, but just the virtue of it being different is enough to throw things off for some. ]
Books tend to be your friend when you spend a large amount of your time indoors. I've a thirst for it.
[ Both during his childhood spent inside while suffering from frequent illnesses, and those three years he spent recovering from the five-year coma that he'd been knocked into by Ifrit at Phoenix Gate. But! He doesn't need to burden Dion with all of that, so he says nothing.
As he moves to the kitchenette, he does take note of some things. The poultices in the bathroom - three, he mentally notes, and a roll of bandages that will surely be used up by week's end, if not sooner. The fact that Dion is injured to the point of needing a new roll... He will bring one by, if Dion doesn't visit him at the clinic first.
The Wyvern Tail in the mug, which is being moved out of the way. Joshua's head tilts curiously at it as Dion gets it out of his way. Surely not the one he'd offered at the tent that day... But it is wilted.
He doesn't judge Dion's need to hang on to it, though. Wilted or no, it is... a reminder, he supposes. And it isn't as though they can easily find new ones, should he want one. He takes the kettle, filling it with water, unaware of Dion's stiffness behind his back. ]
How are you settling in? Is anything troubling you?
[ In terms of adjusting, of course. It's mostly like home, but just the virtue of it being different is enough to throw things off for some. ]
[The way Joshua speaks evokes a similar feeling from Dion's early years. He remembers his own studies, and how diligently he had taken to them. In another life, perhaps he maintained that same voracious need to learn.]
There was a time I felt the same, if you can believe it. [While Joshua busies himself, Dion takes a seat on the edge of his bed. Some part of him itches to help, but he knows he's just as likely to be chased away by Joshua for even trying.] Your brother... did he tell you I used to be a student of the Hideaway's loresman?
[He isn't sure why he shares this now of all times. The memory still fills him with a sense of melancholy. He supposes it's better than languishing in silence, though.]
I am settling in as well as I could. My injuries ache less and less with each day I spend here. Perhaps I will not need your attention after all.
[He speaks without a hint of mirth, yet if Joshua turns, he might find something of a smile on Dion's lips.]
I jest, of course. Full well do I know that attempting to avoid your ministrations will only cause more trouble. And the last thing I wish is for you or Ifrit to knock down my door in an attempt to coax me in.
There was a time I felt the same, if you can believe it. [While Joshua busies himself, Dion takes a seat on the edge of his bed. Some part of him itches to help, but he knows he's just as likely to be chased away by Joshua for even trying.] Your brother... did he tell you I used to be a student of the Hideaway's loresman?
[He isn't sure why he shares this now of all times. The memory still fills him with a sense of melancholy. He supposes it's better than languishing in silence, though.]
I am settling in as well as I could. My injuries ache less and less with each day I spend here. Perhaps I will not need your attention after all.
[He speaks without a hint of mirth, yet if Joshua turns, he might find something of a smile on Dion's lips.]
I jest, of course. Full well do I know that attempting to avoid your ministrations will only cause more trouble. And the last thing I wish is for you or Ifrit to knock down my door in an attempt to coax me in.
[ As Dion begins to talk back, Joshua smiles toward the cabinets. He'd hoped he could coax Dion into conversation. And it's so casual, too. ]
Truly? Harpocrates was once your tutor? What a small world...
[ He's learned a great deal from Harpocrates. A very kind, very learned man. The times that Joshua has had questions, they've sometimes gone on for a good hour poring over tomes and discussing theories. He could very easily see the man teaching a child.
Joshua peers through the cabinets, searching for the mugs. There had been some in theirs when they had moved in, and thankfully the same seems to be true here, too. But just as he's reaching to grasp two handles, Dion makes that comment, and he pauses to look back over his shoulder. Really?
But no. He sees that sparkle, the smile on his face. Ah. Dion is joking. ]
You are wise, Dion Lesage. Especially considering your healer now knows where you reside.
[ He takes a scoop of leaves from the tin for each cup, then replaces the lid. Now all there is to do is wait for the water to boil. So, he turns around, leaning his hips back against the edge of the counter and folding his arms. A habit he's picked up from Clive, minus the brooding. ]
How are your wounds? Not bad, I hope?
Truly? Harpocrates was once your tutor? What a small world...
[ He's learned a great deal from Harpocrates. A very kind, very learned man. The times that Joshua has had questions, they've sometimes gone on for a good hour poring over tomes and discussing theories. He could very easily see the man teaching a child.
Joshua peers through the cabinets, searching for the mugs. There had been some in theirs when they had moved in, and thankfully the same seems to be true here, too. But just as he's reaching to grasp two handles, Dion makes that comment, and he pauses to look back over his shoulder. Really?
But no. He sees that sparkle, the smile on his face. Ah. Dion is joking. ]
You are wise, Dion Lesage. Especially considering your healer now knows where you reside.
[ He takes a scoop of leaves from the tin for each cup, then replaces the lid. Now all there is to do is wait for the water to boil. So, he turns around, leaning his hips back against the edge of the counter and folding his arms. A habit he's picked up from Clive, minus the brooding. ]
How are your wounds? Not bad, I hope?
Edited 2025-03-03 22:46 (UTC)
He was. And I am sure I need not tell you what a wise man he is. Truly, I am grateful for at least one twist of fate.
[Some part of him can't help but think about the man, surely mourning the loss of the three of them. Dion wishes he could only pass one message on — that they were safe, at least in a manner of speaking. A man his age did not need to be weighed down by something like grief.
Still, when Joshua meets his eyes again, he's managed to reclaim his smile. It even edges on the mischievous.]
My healer? I was not aware we had taken such steps. From my understanding, there are several who call the clinic home. What of them?
[Does it make his heart skip, for Joshua to call himself his? It shouldn't. Dion knows better. He won't let his heart get away with such fantasies.
He does sober at the mention of his wounds. He glances down at his still bandaged arm, and shrugs a shoulder.] Perhaps in need of more attention. I hesitate to use up what I have so quickly, though. The rest of it is little more than aches and pains. Truly not so terrible, for a man who plummeted to his death.
[Some part of him can't help but think about the man, surely mourning the loss of the three of them. Dion wishes he could only pass one message on — that they were safe, at least in a manner of speaking. A man his age did not need to be weighed down by something like grief.
Still, when Joshua meets his eyes again, he's managed to reclaim his smile. It even edges on the mischievous.]
My healer? I was not aware we had taken such steps. From my understanding, there are several who call the clinic home. What of them?
[Does it make his heart skip, for Joshua to call himself his? It shouldn't. Dion knows better. He won't let his heart get away with such fantasies.
He does sober at the mention of his wounds. He glances down at his still bandaged arm, and shrugs a shoulder.] Perhaps in need of more attention. I hesitate to use up what I have so quickly, though. The rest of it is little more than aches and pains. Truly not so terrible, for a man who plummeted to his death.
He is a very wise man, truly. We have had many long and enlightening conversations.
[ Like Dion, he wishes that they could send messages home. He doesn't know how they can, but it would soothe some Worries. Maybe one day, they will find a way.
But the way that Dion responds to his comment makes his eyebrows raise a little. The smile is still there, so clearly he isn't actually offended, but... ]
Well, you are more than welcome to see them instead, so long as you are healed.
[ He offers a smile, too, though his is a bit more... questioning? He'd only said as much because Dion knows him, after all. Dion is more than welcome to see whoever he likes.
But the admission of how bad his wounds truly are makes him relax. Ah. He knew it. ]
It could certainly be worse, from the sound of it... [ He nods. ] If your poultices are important to you, then let me help. Save them for something else.
[ Like Dion, he wishes that they could send messages home. He doesn't know how they can, but it would soothe some Worries. Maybe one day, they will find a way.
But the way that Dion responds to his comment makes his eyebrows raise a little. The smile is still there, so clearly he isn't actually offended, but... ]
Well, you are more than welcome to see them instead, so long as you are healed.
[ He offers a smile, too, though his is a bit more... questioning? He'd only said as much because Dion knows him, after all. Dion is more than welcome to see whoever he likes.
But the admission of how bad his wounds truly are makes him relax. Ah. He knew it. ]
It could certainly be worse, from the sound of it... [ He nods. ] If your poultices are important to you, then let me help. Save them for something else.
[Ah. The smile quickly fades. It probably wasn't his wisest move, to tease in such a manner. Joshua's efforts were likely only out of courtesy, rather than a personal interest in his health. Or at least that's what he tells himself for approximately 30 seconds, before Joshua quickly offers to come to his aid.
Well, he has more important things to focus on here.]
I am sure you think me a fool for coveting them so. But they have become more than their purpose to me. I... consider them to be quite precious.
[He'll treasure the kindness offered to him for all time.]
That said... if you are willing to offer your skills, I am more than willing to accept. [A pause.] Though I will request no magic. The last thing I want is to have Ifrit after my head for encouraging you.
Well, he has more important things to focus on here.]
I am sure you think me a fool for coveting them so. But they have become more than their purpose to me. I... consider them to be quite precious.
[He'll treasure the kindness offered to him for all time.]
That said... if you are willing to offer your skills, I am more than willing to accept. [A pause.] Though I will request no magic. The last thing I want is to have Ifrit after my head for encouraging you.
[ And Clive visits Dion after his brother does, after a day or two, to let the other settle in more. It gives Clive time to decide on his course of action(s), before seeking the other out.
The knock on Dion's door is most definitely not Joshua's, there's no way Clive can mask how heavy he knocks. Not while gauntlets cling to your arms and you're jacked.
But at least it's gentle by his normal standard, and he speaks up as he does. ]
It's Clive.
The knock on Dion's door is most definitely not Joshua's, there's no way Clive can mask how heavy he knocks. Not while gauntlets cling to your arms and you're jacked.
But at least it's gentle by his normal standard, and he speaks up as he does. ]
It's Clive.
Edited 2025-03-04 01:37 (UTC)
[ Joshua's smile grows warmer at that. Pushing away from the counter, he shakes his head, crossing the floor. ]
It isn't foolish at all. What is important to you isn't foolish. Even something as simple as a poultice.
[ He pauses, a respectable distance from Dion, but close enough to speak more softly. Confidentiality. ]
I will not use my magic, I promise you. I've some salve and bandages with me, if you would like me to treat you while the water boils. Or you could meet me at the clinic tomorrow, if you'd rather.
It isn't foolish at all. What is important to you isn't foolish. Even something as simple as a poultice.
[ He pauses, a respectable distance from Dion, but close enough to speak more softly. Confidentiality. ]
I will not use my magic, I promise you. I've some salve and bandages with me, if you would like me to treat you while the water boils. Or you could meet me at the clinic tomorrow, if you'd rather.
[Though the clamor at the door does serve to startle Dion from whatever peace he's cobbled out for himself, Clive at least has the decency to answer the door. That means he's spared from the greeting that Joshua had experienced — no lances to threaten him with here.
The door swings open, and Dion regards the man silently. His presence isn't unwelcome, the former prince just isn't sure what the visit could be about.]
Is something amiss?
The door swings open, and Dion regards the man silently. His presence isn't unwelcome, the former prince just isn't sure what the visit could be about.]
Is something amiss?
I'm glad you understand, then.
[A note is made in the back of his mind. Perhaps once things have settled, he'll tell Joshua about the girl who had helped him. Something tells Dion it's the kind of story — one of human kindness and strength — that Joshua would appreciate.
For now, he glances toward the boiling kettle, then down toward his arm. There's a brief moment of hesitation before he finally nods his assent.]
It is likely in my best interest that you tend to it sooner, rather than later.
[Without waiting for a response, he reaches down and begins setting to unraveling the bandages on his arm. Most of what's under there shouldn't be surprising — burns from their first battle back home, and fresh bruises from the worst of their final fight. But closer to his wrist, Joshua might see the telltale signs of the Curse taking root.]
[A note is made in the back of his mind. Perhaps once things have settled, he'll tell Joshua about the girl who had helped him. Something tells Dion it's the kind of story — one of human kindness and strength — that Joshua would appreciate.
For now, he glances toward the boiling kettle, then down toward his arm. There's a brief moment of hesitation before he finally nods his assent.]
It is likely in my best interest that you tend to it sooner, rather than later.
[Without waiting for a response, he reaches down and begins setting to unraveling the bandages on his arm. Most of what's under there shouldn't be surprising — burns from their first battle back home, and fresh bruises from the worst of their final fight. But closer to his wrist, Joshua might see the telltale signs of the Curse taking root.]
[ A quick check. Up. Down. No worse for wear. Joshua tattled about the curse, sorry Dion, but that makes Clive more willing to try his idea. ]
Not really. Just a few questions.
[ He doesn't bother coming in though, he's not going to intrude on the mans personal space. ]
How bad has the curse progressed, and would you like to try something to reverse it?
[ A pause, then. ]
And would you like to spar if your injuries are up for it.
[ ... Listen, he's always wondered about Dion's skills. ]
Not really. Just a few questions.
[ He doesn't bother coming in though, he's not going to intrude on the mans personal space. ]
How bad has the curse progressed, and would you like to try something to reverse it?
[ A pause, then. ]
And would you like to spar if your injuries are up for it.
[ ... Listen, he's always wondered about Dion's skills. ]
[Clive might not bother, but Dion offers it all the same. He steps out of the entryway, motioning with his head toward the chairs situated at a little table inside. It's far from the glamorous parlor of his home, but Dion doubts Clive will mind.]
I see there are no secrets between brothers. [There's a mild note of exasperation in his voice, but also a strange hint of amusement too. It was foolish to expect privacy between the two of them.] Not terribly far. I still have full range of motion in my arm, which is more than I can ask for.
[The second question does give Dion pause. After seating himself, he turns his gaze fully to Clive.]
You know how to reverse it? [His brow furrows as he glances toward Clive's stone hand. But then... that was different, was it not? Joshua had explained that this world had exacted a toll.]
As for your request for a spar, I will have to decline for the time being. I suspect my healer would be cross should he find out I was straining myself. The last thing I want is to encourage him to strain himself, when I know his brother would have my head for it.
I see there are no secrets between brothers. [There's a mild note of exasperation in his voice, but also a strange hint of amusement too. It was foolish to expect privacy between the two of them.] Not terribly far. I still have full range of motion in my arm, which is more than I can ask for.
[The second question does give Dion pause. After seating himself, he turns his gaze fully to Clive.]
You know how to reverse it? [His brow furrows as he glances toward Clive's stone hand. But then... that was different, was it not? Joshua had explained that this world had exacted a toll.]
As for your request for a spar, I will have to decline for the time being. I suspect my healer would be cross should he find out I was straining myself. The last thing I want is to encourage him to strain himself, when I know his brother would have my head for it.
I understand more than you know.
[ And this time, the smile he gives Dion is incredibly warm. There is a lot from his childhood that he would still consider precious to this day, if he had it. The bracelets that he and Clive had been given as a gift from their late father are just one of those things, but he cannot bear to part with it all the same.
But Dion is already undoing his bandages, so Joshua will pay attention. It truly didn't take much for him to give in. The wounds are... certainly not surprising, that's for certain. Slowly healing burns, fresher bruises. And that hint of lithification... So his gut feeling had been right.
Well. Nothing to be done for that, at least not right now. But he makes a mental note to keep an eye on Dion. Any unnecessary uses of Bahamut's power... ]
Thank you. Sit still for me, please?
[ He turns, opening a small leather pack on his hip. He pulls out a small metal tin, a roll of bandages, and a square of gauze. The tin opens to reveal a strong-smelling salve, scented like a combination of healing herbs that, despite not being anything either of them are used to, still reek of "medicinal". No matter the world, this never changes.
He removes his glove, swipes his fingertips into the salve, then applies it first to the older burns, then to the newer bruises. Each wound is covered in a square of gauze, the salve helping to keep it in place, and then he winds the bandage around his arm until it is covered again. The beginnings of the lithification included.
And he says nothing about it, kindly, as he affixes the bandage in place. ]
There you are. It should probably be changed daily to monitor for infection, but I've found that salve does wonders for bruises. You'll just smell like an infirmary all day. But it isn't such a bad thing. I think it's a pleasant scent.
[ And this time, the smile he gives Dion is incredibly warm. There is a lot from his childhood that he would still consider precious to this day, if he had it. The bracelets that he and Clive had been given as a gift from their late father are just one of those things, but he cannot bear to part with it all the same.
But Dion is already undoing his bandages, so Joshua will pay attention. It truly didn't take much for him to give in. The wounds are... certainly not surprising, that's for certain. Slowly healing burns, fresher bruises. And that hint of lithification... So his gut feeling had been right.
Well. Nothing to be done for that, at least not right now. But he makes a mental note to keep an eye on Dion. Any unnecessary uses of Bahamut's power... ]
Thank you. Sit still for me, please?
[ He turns, opening a small leather pack on his hip. He pulls out a small metal tin, a roll of bandages, and a square of gauze. The tin opens to reveal a strong-smelling salve, scented like a combination of healing herbs that, despite not being anything either of them are used to, still reek of "medicinal". No matter the world, this never changes.
He removes his glove, swipes his fingertips into the salve, then applies it first to the older burns, then to the newer bruises. Each wound is covered in a square of gauze, the salve helping to keep it in place, and then he winds the bandage around his arm until it is covered again. The beginnings of the lithification included.
And he says nothing about it, kindly, as he affixes the bandage in place. ]
There you are. It should probably be changed daily to monitor for infection, but I've found that salve does wonders for bruises. You'll just smell like an infirmary all day. But it isn't such a bad thing. I think it's a pleasant scent.
[Prepared as Dion is for judgement, he has no idea what to do when none is offered up. He stares rather dumbly at Joshua for just a moment, before drawing his arm back to his side. The wounds on his torso ache equally but... if he's not being pressed to bring them up, he won't mention it.]
Is there naught you can't accomplish? [There's a hint of wonder in his voice as he glances up at Joshua, then back down once more.] Though, thinking about it I wonder if you might benefit from taking one of the jars I have. Remiss as I am to give them up, there might be more you can learn from it than I ever could. And I suspect the girl who gave them to me would be quite heartened to know they had even further reach than she expected.
[He thinks of Kihel's smile and finds himself mirroring the expression unconsciously.]
Is there naught you can't accomplish? [There's a hint of wonder in his voice as he glances up at Joshua, then back down once more.] Though, thinking about it I wonder if you might benefit from taking one of the jars I have. Remiss as I am to give them up, there might be more you can learn from it than I ever could. And I suspect the girl who gave them to me would be quite heartened to know they had even further reach than she expected.
[He thinks of Kihel's smile and finds himself mirroring the expression unconsciously.]
[ Clive hesitates then steps in with a soft thank you, and indeed, he doesn't care about the lack of decorations. He moves to a chair and sits, and unlike Joshua, he doesn't tuck himself in neatly. The man sprawls, arms folded lightly across his chest, relaxed but guarded as always. Plus it's just comfortable. He gives the Dragoon a lopsided smirk at Dion's exasperation but he doesn't offer an apology.
Good, the curse is just started. He nods to the reversal, pausing, then reaching to undo his glove from his hand, pulling the leather free of the stiff fingers. The spot where stone and flesh meet at his wrist aches as always but nothing worse for wear.
And he arches an eyebrow to My Healer. WELL.
Clive doesn't grin but his eyes crinkle a little and there's a slight sparkle in them. ]
Don't worry, it's not your head I would be going for. He knows better. Another time then. As for your question? Yes. The only reason I didn't suffer a second death here is because we found a way to reverse it. At least, we believe so.
[ He props his arm up behind him on the chair, frowning. Might as well give Dion the full explanation. ]
Immunity to the curse is something that was built into me, due to being Ultima's vessel. Yet as punishment for going against the beast here, I was given the curse. It advances unpredictably on my use of magic, and the last time, it nearly took my life. My brother and a friend of ours who specializes in aetheric healing, managed to reverse it. The death curse remains, but-
[ He draws a line along his jaw and throat, then down his arm to his wrist. Indicating he would have suffocated and his entire head might have petrified had they not done so. ]
We're also working on my brothers, using my aether to replace what Joshua has lost. It's far more delicate, as his is internal, but so long as yours isn't, I suspect we can do the same for you as we did me. It's... not pleasant, but it works.
Good, the curse is just started. He nods to the reversal, pausing, then reaching to undo his glove from his hand, pulling the leather free of the stiff fingers. The spot where stone and flesh meet at his wrist aches as always but nothing worse for wear.
And he arches an eyebrow to My Healer. WELL.
Clive doesn't grin but his eyes crinkle a little and there's a slight sparkle in them. ]
Don't worry, it's not your head I would be going for. He knows better. Another time then. As for your question? Yes. The only reason I didn't suffer a second death here is because we found a way to reverse it. At least, we believe so.
[ He props his arm up behind him on the chair, frowning. Might as well give Dion the full explanation. ]
Immunity to the curse is something that was built into me, due to being Ultima's vessel. Yet as punishment for going against the beast here, I was given the curse. It advances unpredictably on my use of magic, and the last time, it nearly took my life. My brother and a friend of ours who specializes in aetheric healing, managed to reverse it. The death curse remains, but-
[ He draws a line along his jaw and throat, then down his arm to his wrist. Indicating he would have suffocated and his entire head might have petrified had they not done so. ]
We're also working on my brothers, using my aether to replace what Joshua has lost. It's far more delicate, as his is internal, but so long as yours isn't, I suspect we can do the same for you as we did me. It's... not pleasant, but it works.
[At first, Dion doesn't quite understand why Clive is making faces at him but - ah. Right. He scowls down at the table, ignoring the way the tips of his ears begin to burn. He's grateful for the shift in subject, morbid though it may be. At least it's something he can focus on while he calms down.]
How lucky you must be, to have stumbled upon a friend like that. [He is curious how this friend managed to come upon such abilities, especially when the siblings had said that no one else of their realm had arrived in this world. He doesn't ask after that for now.]
I had wondered what ailed Joshua when we were eating the other day. [The detail hadn't been lost on him, even if he'd been distracted by Clive's terrible habits.] An internal ailment such as that is certainly far more problematic than that which we've experienced.
[He leans forward, far more intrigued by Joshua's case than the alleviation of his own.]
Is there anything I can offer to assist you in assisting him? Curing him would not come anywhere near all he has done for me, but it would at least be a start.
How lucky you must be, to have stumbled upon a friend like that. [He is curious how this friend managed to come upon such abilities, especially when the siblings had said that no one else of their realm had arrived in this world. He doesn't ask after that for now.]
I had wondered what ailed Joshua when we were eating the other day. [The detail hadn't been lost on him, even if he'd been distracted by Clive's terrible habits.] An internal ailment such as that is certainly far more problematic than that which we've experienced.
[He leans forward, far more intrigued by Joshua's case than the alleviation of his own.]
Is there anything I can offer to assist you in assisting him? Curing him would not come anywhere near all he has done for me, but it would at least be a start.
[ Oh, don't worry, Dion. This was just the first that was offered up. He will be asking after more.
But the awe in Dion's voice makes Joshua pause, meeting the prince's eyes as he looks up, if only for a moment. It's a familiar sort of sentiment, but... it doesn't feel the same as when the Undying look at him.
He ducks his head down, just for a second, masking it as a double check on the secured end of the bandage. Ignoring the strange flutter that springs up. ]
It's only bandaging. It's nothing, truly.
[ But he does give proper consideration to Dion's offer, because he's offering one of his precious poultices. He's aware how important they are to Dion, and it isn't a gift offered lightly. Joshua straightens back up, tilting his head as he reaches for one of the cloths at his hip, wiping off the excess salve. ]
You would give one to me? Are you certain?
But the awe in Dion's voice makes Joshua pause, meeting the prince's eyes as he looks up, if only for a moment. It's a familiar sort of sentiment, but... it doesn't feel the same as when the Undying look at him.
He ducks his head down, just for a second, masking it as a double check on the secured end of the bandage. Ignoring the strange flutter that springs up. ]
It's only bandaging. It's nothing, truly.
[ But he does give proper consideration to Dion's offer, because he's offering one of his precious poultices. He's aware how important they are to Dion, and it isn't a gift offered lightly. Joshua straightens back up, tilting his head as he reaches for one of the cloths at his hip, wiping off the excess salve. ]
You would give one to me? Are you certain?
[ Oh, Clive might be dense when it comes to his own feelings and the feelings of those towards him, but he can see Dion's clear as day. Or at least he thinks he does. He's truly not one to know about who likes who here, he barely understands his own feelings.
His offer to help Joshua does make Clives features soften, however. And he feels sort of bad with his initial response of: ]
No. Any use of your aether now would progress your own, and Joshua would rather cut the curse out than force yours to progress.
[ But that does lead him up to one of the reasons he's here. ]
Unless I do as I did my brother, and give you back the pieces of your Eikon that I took. That should not only replace the aether lost and prevent further lithification, but allow you to dole some out in return. So you could give some to Joshua, if you desired.
His offer to help Joshua does make Clives features soften, however. And he feels sort of bad with his initial response of: ]
No. Any use of your aether now would progress your own, and Joshua would rather cut the curse out than force yours to progress.
[ But that does lead him up to one of the reasons he's here. ]
Unless I do as I did my brother, and give you back the pieces of your Eikon that I took. That should not only replace the aether lost and prevent further lithification, but allow you to dole some out in return. So you could give some to Joshua, if you desired.
[Joshua isn't the only one looking away; Dion pretends to be distracted by an errant thread on the bedspread. He shrugs with his free arm, an oddly casual gesture for one so proper as him.]
And yet it is bandaging I could not manage on my own. Never mind running about with salves at the ready to help any errant prince.
[He sounds one part amused, and two parts deeply serious about it all. That level of graveness remains as he forces himself to look upward toward Joshua.]
I am. Kihel would be over the moon to know that her poultices were seeing widespread use. If I cannot ensure that she receive adequate patronage for her efforts, then the least I can do is make sure he name is known to others. [He shakes his head, expression fond.] So, if not for me, then for her?
And yet it is bandaging I could not manage on my own. Never mind running about with salves at the ready to help any errant prince.
[He sounds one part amused, and two parts deeply serious about it all. That level of graveness remains as he forces himself to look upward toward Joshua.]
I am. Kihel would be over the moon to know that her poultices were seeing widespread use. If I cannot ensure that she receive adequate patronage for her efforts, then the least I can do is make sure he name is known to others. [He shakes his head, expression fond.] So, if not for me, then for her?
[Dion's expression falls the moment his offer is shut down. It takes only seconds for him to mask his disappointment, but it's a few precious moments too long. He would not be surprised if Clive saw through his attempts.]
Of course. And I would not wish to burden him with such a weight, should I insist.
[Clive's offer stops him short though. He stares up at the man, expression unreadable. His mind, however, whirls with the implication. There is no denying the emptiness that clings to his soul without the presence of Bahamut. And yet with that desire comes a healthy layer of fear. It rises in his throat and forms a lump, one he struggles to swallow down.]
Glad would I be to offer something up. But - [He looks into Clive's eyes, then away once more.] I would fear what may happen, were I in full possession of Bahamut. This town seems to have already suffered enough.
[He closes his eyes, and sees the wreckage of Twinside, clear as day.]
No. It is best that it remains with you.
Of course. And I would not wish to burden him with such a weight, should I insist.
[Clive's offer stops him short though. He stares up at the man, expression unreadable. His mind, however, whirls with the implication. There is no denying the emptiness that clings to his soul without the presence of Bahamut. And yet with that desire comes a healthy layer of fear. It rises in his throat and forms a lump, one he struggles to swallow down.]
Glad would I be to offer something up. But - [He looks into Clive's eyes, then away once more.] I would fear what may happen, were I in full possession of Bahamut. This town seems to have already suffered enough.
[He closes his eyes, and sees the wreckage of Twinside, clear as day.]
No. It is best that it remains with you.
[ Oh, that hurts. Not just Dion's fallen expression but the way their eyes meet the last time and he can see the uncertainty. He hesitates a little, trying to find his wording. ]
...
[ Give him a second here. ]
That wasn't you.
[ He raises his hand to stall any objections Dion might have, shaking his head. Just remain quiet for a second. ]
What happened was exactly what Ultima wanted to happen. He chewed you down until you were raw and on the verge, then made you shatter yourself. That's what he does. He makes us break our own wills. It... was also likely part of his plan for me to end up with Bahamut. A clash between Dominants, for Ifrit to devour yet another.
[ He clenches his fist a little, frowning down at it, before glancing up to Dion. His expression is hard at the memory of Dion's memories. Ultima making Dion get his hands dirty, to break the mans spirit, so he'd spiral and fall and become a menace Ifrit had to stop. ]
Have faith in your resolve, Dion. You Primed despite it all, you controlled yourself and Bahamut with skill and wisdom. It was thanks to you we reached Origin, it was thanks to you we got in, and it was thanks to you Ultima was stopped enough we could continue on.
[ He leans forward a little, his eyes locked on the other Dominants. ]
Take Bahamut back, and prove to yourself your will is stronger than Ultima's. You are not his puppet, you are not a part of his machinations. And if you still doubt, do you think my brother and I would let you go it alone? We are beside you, where we weren't before.
...
[ Give him a second here. ]
That wasn't you.
[ He raises his hand to stall any objections Dion might have, shaking his head. Just remain quiet for a second. ]
What happened was exactly what Ultima wanted to happen. He chewed you down until you were raw and on the verge, then made you shatter yourself. That's what he does. He makes us break our own wills. It... was also likely part of his plan for me to end up with Bahamut. A clash between Dominants, for Ifrit to devour yet another.
[ He clenches his fist a little, frowning down at it, before glancing up to Dion. His expression is hard at the memory of Dion's memories. Ultima making Dion get his hands dirty, to break the mans spirit, so he'd spiral and fall and become a menace Ifrit had to stop. ]
Have faith in your resolve, Dion. You Primed despite it all, you controlled yourself and Bahamut with skill and wisdom. It was thanks to you we reached Origin, it was thanks to you we got in, and it was thanks to you Ultima was stopped enough we could continue on.
[ He leans forward a little, his eyes locked on the other Dominants. ]
Take Bahamut back, and prove to yourself your will is stronger than Ultima's. You are not his puppet, you are not a part of his machinations. And if you still doubt, do you think my brother and I would let you go it alone? We are beside you, where we weren't before.
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