∞ 43: Reunion [voice]

[chikaidestroyer]

This has been a rather boring passage of time. I can see why the others were eager to move on from this fort; there's not much here at all.

Noishe has been quiet since I began running a few experiments; he must not have--

[There some sounds of shifting in the sand, then boots on wood as Albert climbs a bit to higher ground.]

...Oh. Is that your group out there, Vyse? Welcome ba--

... ...

I think Noishe is running out to greet your group.

Comments

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

[You opened this can of worms. Enjoy it while it lasts.]

Hmmm, and it was unfortunate that we had to cut things short for now -- for the return expedition, I expect that everyone will be better prepared! We'll leave no artifact behind!

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

[Slowly but surely...]

Return expedition? What makes you think there will be a return expedition?

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

... Of course there's going to be one!

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

Have you even thought of the possibility that the Malnosso will bar us access to the ruins? To this very fort?

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

Until that becomes undeniably certain, they're still open for exploration!

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

The tunnel could very well seal itself up the moment we arrive in the village.

Furthermore, if by some great happenstance the tunnel remains open, a lot can happen in the week that it will take for anyone to return to the village and then head back out here.

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

!

Albert!

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

[Oh Runes. What now?]

Yes?

[Action] 1/2

[wise_maiden]

That is an excellent observation!

...However it is my opinion that should it remain open, the possibility of more study must not be ruled out entirely!

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

In fact, I absolutely forbid it!

[Action] 1/2

[chikaidestroyer]

[There is absolute silence in immediate response to Raine's words.]

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

[There are just. No words. Really. But somehow, Albert finds a few.]

Are you serious?

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

Do I sound like I'm joking?!

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

...I think it's time for you to lie down and rest, Professor.

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

...

... I beg your pardon?

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

Clearly the desert heat has gotten to you. You should rest. Now.

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

I ... I'm not tired.

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

Yes, you are, Professor.

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

No... I'm not... I've done enough resting, for now.

[She turns back towards the window, absently rubbing at her left shoulder]

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

[And now he's approaching to stand by her. The height difference has him tilting his head to look at her.]

Clearly you haven't. You're hurt, aren't you?

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

...

It's -- healing. It's fine. I'm alive, aren't I?

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

Professor. When have you ever allowed an excuse like that from a patient of yours?

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

...

Fair enough.

[Action]

[chikaidestroyer]

Come along. At least sit down again. You are doing no one any favors allowing your wounds to go unattended.

[Action]

[wise_maiden]

... He didn't manage to infect me. There's that, at least.

[A long pause as she looks out the window again, then slowly turns, not looking at him directly] ... Very well, I'll have a seat.