[The hesitation between this affirmation and his next words is an obvious one, though there's no uncertainty at all across his features. He is aware that doing such a thing as he's about to request is an extreme measure; were it something he could do lightly, he would have simply done it while she was in his possession the first time. She was certainly under enough distress to have obliged him easily, then.
Even now, he isn't entirely sure of what effect this will have on him; regardless, the potential benefits...
His voice remains even when he speaks, unmarred by doubt or uncertainty.]
Should this action be undertaken...remember that I ask you this fully aware of the consequences. It will only prove detrimental to myself without affecting others, should this not end as I expect. Keeping this in mind may make it easier for you to comply...and if not, perhaps keeping in mind that you are in debt to me for saving your life will serve the same purpose. There are many other ways in which I could extract this debt...this is by far the most reasonable, as far as you are concerned.
I ask that you utilize that ability of yours...strip me of my own incompleteness. I am aware that you consider it a curse...however, it is not seen as such by one who wants you to use it...nor can it truly be considered causing any harm by doing so. I ask you this willingly...and again, I am fully aware of the consequences.
[It was what she expected. Her telepathic voice was now filled with nervousness. It had happened before, a long time ago when her curse last took effect. The only difference was that the previous time had been an accident... and this time, he actually knew what he was doing. Cyrus actually wanted it.]
I...I understand what you want from me. No one has ever willingly asked me to take their emotions before...
[But Mesprit wasn't about to give him a clear "Yes" or "No" answer to his request yet. She was still having mixed feelings about what to do. He had Revived her, after all... and as much as she hated the thought, the Lake Guardian did owe him her life... in a way. She trembled, but remained where she was to make up her mind.]
It's... it's just such a difficult choice for me to make...
[Mesprit just remained silent as he spoke, still trying to figure out her next move. Yet she's no longer over the hut; her lithe form is now levitating over an edge of the roof, still safe from his reach.]
It will probably bother me if I give you what you want... but I'll be bothered if I can't repay you somehow... [She's still feeling hesitant. A light tremble goes through her, sensing that anything she tells him probably won't change his mind; yet it's worth still trying.] It... it can't be reversed once it's done, you know... I just don't want you to have regrets for making such a life-changing choice, that's all...
[Cyrus becomes quiet for a moment, maintaining eye contact with her as he considers her words; he's aware that if she does this, there isn't going to be any opportunity to change his mind.
Even now, his confidence falters slightly...only for the notion to be pushed aside. It's sentimentality that stops him, isn't it?
If he stops now, he's just as bad as the rest.]
...I am not one to regret my decisions once they are made, Guardian.
[His response didn't help make Mesprit's choice any easier; it's only making her feel more unsure on what the right thing to do should be. It's hard to believe that she hasn't just fled the scene by now, leaving Cyrus there alone, but it'd be rude of her to not give him an answer.
Of course, it feels like she's just stalling, working for some more crucial time to think. Actually, she is stalling, still asking queries.]
...Are you sure that's really what you want? Really sure? You don't want anything else instead?
[He can tell that she's unwilling, stalling for time, and he can't say that he cares for it very much; however, though his tone is firm, it isn't angry - his voice remains even, and he looks her in the eyes when he speaks.]
I can assure you that I would not still be here arguing the point, if I would settle otherwise.
[Darn it... This whole thing seems like a big problem. Should she really return the favor and do what he wants? Mesprit usually wouldn't give into things so easily, especially to someone she fears so much. But what happened in her world is in the past... on this Island, Cyrus had Revived her, possibly saving her life - Just remembering this makes it very hard to realize what she has to do.
Either way, she's going to feel pain.]
My heart tells me that I can't do this... [Her eyelids lower in defeat. As much as it hurts her heart to admit it, Mesprit slowly gives in. Her tone is soft, although sad is a better word for it.] ...but it also tells me that you're right. You've done something for me, and I...I should do something in return, even if... [She gulps slightly, shutting her eyes for a moment as a shudder sweeps through her. Nope, she's not going to like this at all.] ...even if it means letting you have what you wish...
[Although she's sort of given into Cyrus's request, Mesprit still remains where she is at the roof. Most likely, the little pixie's just mentally preparing herself for this - either that or mentally kicking herself - just for a few more moments.]
[Is she...acquiescing? She doesn't come closer, but her words imply hesitation, not denial of his request; is she actually...?
Cyrus can't deny the tremor that courses through his body at the thought; though he tells himself the reaction is spurred on through anticipation only, if he must acknowledge it at all, there's still something in the back of his mind - nothing more than a trace of a thought, really; something easily dismissed - that recognizes the fear.
It isn't enough to make him stop; it isn't even enough to make him reconsider. He knows this is what he wants - he knows - but at the same time, a sense of apprehension exists, however slight.]
This choice...whether it will help or hinder in the end is unknowable at this point.
Regardless...when it comes to your decision on the matter, I...
[He hesitates; he isn't fond of saying these things to her.]
I have a deep appreciation for what you are about to do.
[Even with her eyes closed, Mesprit senses a very faint feeling from him; it's not one she's felt from him before. Was he hesitating as well? Perhaps it's just his conscience fighting a losing battle, she figures as the sense becomes minute.
His latest words only cause her to open her gold eyes once again, giving him her full attention. That was an odd comment... Why would someone really appreciate the ability to take emotions away? She only gazes back at him sadly, her eyes already filling with regret.]
Then, I guess my only other hope that things work out for you... I still wish there was another way...
[Well, now she's as ready as she's gonna be. Mesprit begins to descend from the roof, making her way towards him very slowly. That slight trembling starts up again the closer the sprite gets, but she halts before getting within his reach.]
[Her words are strange to him, almost foreign; that she should wish such a thing for one that had caused her such pain - and even more confusing, one who clearly had no remorse for doing so, one that would do so again...
It makes no sense; were it anyone else, he would suspect that she was being sardonic. However, her being whom she is, that doesn't seem likely to be the case.
He shakes off any remaining sense of doubt. If this is going to happen, then so be it - he would prefer to get it over with quickly.
He extends his hand toward her; it establishes distance, allowing her to touch without coming close enough for him to get any sort of plausible grip on her body. He's holding to his word - he isn't here to capture her - and yet the action isn't an unsure one; his hand remains steady, and his eyes are calm.
The fear is gone, replaced by thoughts of better things; if she does what she implies, he will become complete.]
[Instinct would usually make her fall back a little to the sight of a hand reaching out. However, Fate finds Mesprit very slowly floating forward, heading towards his awaiting hand with a nervous gulp.
It's not too late to change her mind... usually the legendary would dash off before a close encounter happens; unfortunately, a debt has yet to be paid. It isn't long before the top of her head brushes against his palm - they had both reached the point of no return.
It's a bitter-cold touch - a complete 180 from the last time his hand met her skin while she was in her human forme - before backing away again after a few seconds. Her expression is one of discomfort and obvious regret, causing her to shudder.]
[He closes his eyes at the touch, though he doesn't flinch away; his nerves are awake, alive with anticipation, and even though he can't see her he's aware of her presence. He isn't sure what he expected, but it wasn't this, exactly; she's soft and cool to the touch, and the contact isn't unpleasant. He had expected pain, or a sense of loss; the idea that this experience could be so normal hadn't even crossed his mind.
Though Cyrus is aware that any true unpleasant effect this may have on him will make itself very plain in the days to come, and he knows the transition may be difficult, he isn't afraid of it; he's prepared for it, as much as one can be, and if anything, he embraces it. When his expression changes, then, the shift isn't one of fear; it's an unconscious action, his features relaxing as he mentally allows himself to take in the entirety of what he's doing. Rather than any sort of fear or apprehension, if anything, he seems relieved.
He opens his eyes when she pulls away, the peaceful expression that had been across his features moments before replaced by the usual stoicism - he lowers his hand, turning it over in front of his eyes for a moment as though studying for some sort of physical change that implies what he had just done. When he finds nothing, he returns his attention to her; it's obvious that she's discontent, and her words imply that her experience has differed greatly.
Interesting.]
...it's done, then.
[Though it's more a statement than anything, there's still a vaguely inquisitive sense that can be heard behind his words.]
[The shuddering doesn't seem to be stopping. She hadn't forgotten how uncomfortable this ability of hers was - it was rare for her to even use it at all.
To his statement, she only shook her head, keeping her eyes closed.]
...T-three days... It takes...three days before it's done...
[She's nearly bringing herself to tears, even while talking to him after that touch. What else could she say? It was too late to do anything else. While nothing physical had changed, Mesprit could already feel her precious gift to all starting to seep out of him.]
[Though he responds to her words, his tone is distracted; clearly, she's under some sort of severe distress at this, and he can't say that he's sure why.]
This act...does it torture you, then?
[His voice is more inquisitive then truly concerned, but he asks regardless.]
[The hesitation between this affirmation and his next words is an obvious one, though there's no uncertainty at all across his features. He is aware that doing such a thing as he's about to request is an extreme measure; were it something he could do lightly, he would have simply done it while she was in his possession the first time. She was certainly under enough distress to have obliged him easily, then.
Even now, he isn't entirely sure of what effect this will have on him; regardless, the potential benefits...
His voice remains even when he speaks, unmarred by doubt or uncertainty.]
Should this action be undertaken...remember that I ask you this fully aware of the consequences. It will only prove detrimental to myself without affecting others, should this not end as I expect. Keeping this in mind may make it easier for you to comply...and if not, perhaps keeping in mind that you are in debt to me for saving your life will serve the same purpose. There are many other ways in which I could extract this debt...this is by far the most reasonable, as far as you are concerned.
I ask that you utilize that ability of yours...strip me of my own incompleteness. I am aware that you consider it a curse...however, it is not seen as such by one who wants you to use it...nor can it truly be considered causing any harm by doing so. I ask you this willingly...and again, I am fully aware of the consequences.
Reply
I...I understand what you want from me. No one has ever willingly asked me to take their emotions before...
[But Mesprit wasn't about to give him a clear "Yes" or "No" answer to his request yet. She was still having mixed feelings about what to do. He had Revived her, after all... and as much as she hated the thought, the Lake Guardian did owe him her life... in a way. She trembled, but remained where she was to make up her mind.]
It's... it's just such a difficult choice for me to make...
Reply
...regardless, I am still here to request it of you, despite the severity of the action.
You can believe me when I tell you that you will not be held accountable...by either myself or my subordinates. I will ensure this.
Reply
It will probably bother me if I give you what you want... but I'll be bothered if I can't repay you somehow... [She's still feeling hesitant. A light tremble goes through her, sensing that anything she tells him probably won't change his mind; yet it's worth still trying.] It... it can't be reversed once it's done, you know... I just don't want you to have regrets for making such a life-changing choice, that's all...
Reply
Even now, his confidence falters slightly...only for the notion to be pushed aside. It's sentimentality that stops him, isn't it?
If he stops now, he's just as bad as the rest.]
...I am not one to regret my decisions once they are made, Guardian.
I remain willing.
Reply
Of course, it feels like she's just stalling, working for some more crucial time to think. Actually, she is stalling, still asking queries.]
...Are you sure that's really what you want? Really sure? You don't want anything else instead?
Reply
[He can tell that she's unwilling, stalling for time, and he can't say that he cares for it very much; however, though his tone is firm, it isn't angry - his voice remains even, and he looks her in the eyes when he speaks.]
I can assure you that I would not still be here arguing the point, if I would settle otherwise.
Reply
Either way, she's going to feel pain.]
My heart tells me that I can't do this... [Her eyelids lower in defeat. As much as it hurts her heart to admit it, Mesprit slowly gives in. Her tone is soft, although sad is a better word for it.] ...but it also tells me that you're right. You've done something for me, and I...I should do something in return, even if... [She gulps slightly, shutting her eyes for a moment as a shudder sweeps through her. Nope, she's not going to like this at all.] ...even if it means letting you have what you wish...
[Although she's sort of given into Cyrus's request, Mesprit still remains where she is at the roof. Most likely, the little pixie's just mentally preparing herself for this - either that or mentally kicking herself - just for a few more moments.]
Reply
Cyrus can't deny the tremor that courses through his body at the thought; though he tells himself the reaction is spurred on through anticipation only, if he must acknowledge it at all, there's still something in the back of his mind - nothing more than a trace of a thought, really; something easily dismissed - that recognizes the fear.
It isn't enough to make him stop; it isn't even enough to make him reconsider. He knows this is what he wants - he knows - but at the same time, a sense of apprehension exists, however slight.]
This choice...whether it will help or hinder in the end is unknowable at this point.
Regardless...when it comes to your decision on the matter, I...
[He hesitates; he isn't fond of saying these things to her.]
I have a deep appreciation for what you are about to do.
Reply
His latest words only cause her to open her gold eyes once again, giving him her full attention. That was an odd comment... Why would someone really appreciate the ability to take emotions away? She only gazes back at him sadly, her eyes already filling with regret.]
Then, I guess my only other hope that things work out for you... I still wish there was another way...
[Well, now she's as ready as she's gonna be. Mesprit begins to descend from the roof, making her way towards him very slowly. That slight trembling starts up again the closer the sprite gets, but she halts before getting within his reach.]
Reply
It makes no sense; were it anyone else, he would suspect that she was being sardonic. However, her being whom she is, that doesn't seem likely to be the case.
He shakes off any remaining sense of doubt. If this is going to happen, then so be it - he would prefer to get it over with quickly.
He extends his hand toward her; it establishes distance, allowing her to touch without coming close enough for him to get any sort of plausible grip on her body. He's holding to his word - he isn't here to capture her - and yet the action isn't an unsure one; his hand remains steady, and his eyes are calm.
The fear is gone, replaced by thoughts of better things; if she does what she implies, he will become complete.]
Reply
It's not too late to change her mind... usually the legendary would dash off before a close encounter happens; unfortunately, a debt has yet to be paid. It isn't long before the top of her head brushes against his palm - they had both reached the point of no return.
It's a bitter-cold touch - a complete 180 from the last time his hand met her skin while she was in her human forme - before backing away again after a few seconds. Her expression is one of discomfort and obvious regret, causing her to shudder.]
C-cold... Just like the last time...
Reply
Though Cyrus is aware that any true unpleasant effect this may have on him will make itself very plain in the days to come, and he knows the transition may be difficult, he isn't afraid of it; he's prepared for it, as much as one can be, and if anything, he embraces it. When his expression changes, then, the shift isn't one of fear; it's an unconscious action, his features relaxing as he mentally allows himself to take in the entirety of what he's doing. Rather than any sort of fear or apprehension, if anything, he seems relieved.
He opens his eyes when she pulls away, the peaceful expression that had been across his features moments before replaced by the usual stoicism - he lowers his hand, turning it over in front of his eyes for a moment as though studying for some sort of physical change that implies what he had just done. When he finds nothing, he returns his attention to her; it's obvious that she's discontent, and her words imply that her experience has differed greatly.
Interesting.]
...it's done, then.
[Though it's more a statement than anything, there's still a vaguely inquisitive sense that can be heard behind his words.]
Reply
To his statement, she only shook her head, keeping her eyes closed.]
...T-three days... It takes...three days before it's done...
[She's nearly bringing herself to tears, even while talking to him after that touch. What else could she say? It was too late to do anything else. While nothing physical had changed, Mesprit could already feel her precious gift to all starting to seep out of him.]
Reply
[Though he responds to her words, his tone is distracted; clearly, she's under some sort of severe distress at this, and he can't say that he's sure why.]
This act...does it torture you, then?
[His voice is more inquisitive then truly concerned, but he asks regardless.]
Reply
...Very much so... The last time, I didn't realize what it was until later... It's another reason why I prefer my other forme...
[She stops before going any further. Then again, perhaps Mesprit's already said too much.]
Reply
Leave a comment