Probably all that building dust and smoke damage. [No, he expected it was just that 76 was a surly and bitter. He growled because of damaged throat and lungs, and it stood to reason that 76 suffered some of the ways that he did given their close proximity to each other when Overwatch fell.
He wasn't going to force 76 to sit down, and if crouching was comfortable then so be it. It gave him better access to the area in question anyway, and he was curious how much of 76's lower back was rot from his bullet or corruption. There was only one way to find out, not that he would be wholly helpful and not a touch selfish on the matter.
Slowly, he rested his palm against the greatest portion of necrotic area, feeling the strong pulse of himself in the area.]
I believe that I can...
[It should bring relief honestly. He pressed his palm harder to the area and began to mentally draw himself out of the wound. He did so carefully so as not to create more damage by doing so, but he extracted himself at the deepest portion of 76's body. It was like calling himself home, taking back the missing parts of himself.
He also took his time, letting the heat of 76's back warm his hand.]
Didn't help. [His voice had always sounded a certain way, but after dragging himself out of the rubble there was something that much worse. The damage had been done from all o the dust and smoke, the intense heat and everything else he had been breathing in while fighting to dig through the rubble.
The amount of time he had spent digging and looking for someone—
There was a moment where pain was felt, that wound had been one of the most persistent things in his life. The pulse of ache, the constant burning. Feeling that pulling away, even slowly? If 76 wasn't already on his knees he'd be brought to them, the noise he made muffled, sinking further on his knees to the point his thighs spread further apart.
Only thing keeping him leaned forwards to any degree was Reaper's hand being where it was. Stopping the trickle of blood only to a point that it still seeped between those blackened fingers and over his hand.
It was bringing a sort of relief, slowly as Reaper was going. 76's skin as warm as it ever was, warming further as his own body was kicking in to heal a bit behind the removal. To fight the necrosis in a way it hadn't been able to.]
[He was keenly aware of 76's sinking further down in the crouch, and his hand followed to keep contact. His eyes were closed at this point, concentrating on what he was doing as he withdrew himself, and the feel of hot blood over his hand the longer that he worked. Of course, he knew without his bullet fragments that the wound would heal on its own.
He pulled more of himself free, sighing softly. Yet, at the very end of removing all the fragments, he left just small traces of himself behind, so tiny that 76's body shouldn't react as it had before.
That finished and smoothed his hand over what had been the necrotic wound. The skin would look healthier, reddened by blood flow to the area but little, if any, visible traces of black.]
[No real reply other than some low noise in his throat.
76 was dealing with the odd relief he was feeling from a wound that had been a constant pain. The itch of healing that was coming with it the only real discomfort that was following. Hell of an experience, even if it could be seen as something so small- but it wasn't.
Hands pressed to the floor, keeping himself up as he sat heavily on his knees. Fuck's sake. It was weird. Skin bloodied, but that could be washed and wiped away.
Let out a shuddering breath, pushing himself up a little.]
Other than the usual healing itch? Yeah. [The only black that remained on his skin was from the corruption at least. The wound would heal, likely be another new scar, but that was fine.]
[He withdrew his hand once it seemed that 76 would settle forward, and he looked at his blood-coated hand. It had been a long time since he had had his hands dirty, and he looked over and picked up his shirt to wipe off the blood.
He watched the healing injury, and he expected that it would be fine now. Soon enough it would be nothing more than another scar in the sea of many of them. He would say that 76 owed him for that, but honestly, the younger man had done good work on his arm so they were probably even.]
That should go away in a day or two with your healing factor.
[Of course, he had a much better look at the corruption, and it was still rather extensive. At least 76 was stable and not lashing out.]
[One of the more oddly shaped scars, but another amongst many nonetheless. Wiped away what blood remained that he could feel on his own skin, debating if he needed to wrap it for the sake of letting it heal with some protection from the elements or not. Probably wouldn't hurt, and reason he was reaching for his bag for the roll of bandaging he'd tucked away.]
Give or take.
[Already working on the bandaging, wrapping it around his own waist as an easy enough task after all. Sitting on his knees-]
[He watched 76 for a moment when the younger man apparently decided to wrap himself, and he snorted at the very sight. Yeah, yeah doing it all himself was the way that things were done, but honestly, 76 was doing a poor job of it given where the injury was.
He shoved 76 on the shoulder.]
Give me that. You don't even have an absorbent pad for the blood.
[He pulled his pack closer to grab the item and gestured for 76 to sit back so he could take over. It would not be pleasant if he had to fight for it.]
It does because you still look like garbage and the corruption is all over you.
[There was a curl of lips at the shove, enough to show the tips of teeth, but 76 shook his head and noticeably slumped, the bandaging being forked over. Not on edge, snappy perhaps, but he didn't have the energy to even entertain that enough to actually snap.
Actually sat down, finally, as well. Not just on his knees, but a full settling.]
Fine, only because you let me do your shoulder and hand both.
[He could give that much, scrubbing a little at his beard with the heel of a hand before those claws smoothed it back out.]
I always look like garbage, and I doubt sleep will help with that.
[He took the bandaging and lightly knocked 76 on the back of the neck with his knuckles as the younger man settled in to allow him to do some work. It was only fair after all that he had sat through and that he had allowed 76 to come here without shots being fired. So, the peace seemed like it would remain for the time being.]
So glad we remain at the tit-for-tat level of allowing basic human decency to happen between us.
[It was cutting a bit too close to the sensation of 'old times' even briefly, and he expected that both of them were aware of it and wary about it. There was too much history there.
No matter, not right now. He pressed the absorbent cotton pad up against 76's back to cover the worst of the wound. Then he nudged 76's arms up a touch so he could being to wrap the pad in place, keeping things snug. He was keenly aware of the sound of claws in facial hair, something he did when not wearing his mask.]
It won't hurt, you know. Maybe you'll work out some of this corruption.
[There was the light swat at Reaper's hand from the knuckle knocking, but there was no real weigh behind it. Aware of it of course, and the tit-for-tat worked; an easy excuse to not just think about the fact they were still willing to... well.
76 lifted his arms and sat as straight as he needed to in order to allow Reaper To have easier access and not cause his work to end up being too loose. Mindful of hand movements and just where the older man was. Keeping his eyes forward all the same.]
Maybe it'll make it that much worse, too.
[It was grumbled, but that was about as much as 76 could manage. Of course this close it could be noticed there was a slight pointing of his ears—]
Don't feel like chancing some random wandering in to a nightmare.
[So no, he wasn't complaining about it yet. If anything, he saw no reason to complain when the fact that they did better when working together was apparent. After all, his arm wouldn't have been sewn up and bandaged if not for 76, and the younger man wouldn't have an old festering wound heal if not for him. It was as close to working together as they would manage.
He worked the bandage to where it needed to be, wrapping it tighter at the top to prevent slipping. That done, he ran his hands over it from ribs down and then back to front to check for bulging or missed areas. In his own way, he was also checking for signs of pain in other areas while he was gently smoothing his hands over areas.]
What if... we slept next to each other?
[He knew what he was suggesting. If they did, it could equal good rest, an opportunity to have their revenge on each other, or it could mean entering one or the other's nightmare.]
[76 grunted, because- well, Reaper wasn't wrong. The asshole could always find something to complain about with little to no effort just for the hell of it, and he doubted that had ever changed even now.
Still, he was keeping as still as he could. 76 even had a hand rested on top of his head, just to help remember he needed to keep arms up and out of the way. Claws still idly fussing over his facial hair, picking out bits of dried blood and smoothing it down. Probably needed to trim the damn thing again soon. Only reason he had in the first place was because it was getting caught in his mask and that was irritating—
There was a bit of a hiss as hands moved over a place at his ribs, probably telling there was still bruising there. An ugly sort of yellow and purple on skin hidden under the blackened skin where corruption decorated along ribs on both sides. 76 had not been resting properly for them to heal, as if at every turn there was something preventing it.
His head tilted just enough he could look back at Reaper from the corner of an eye.]
That damned cornfield is the nicest thing my head has to offer.
[A warning? Perhaps, if only because he knew exactly what Reaper was offering.]
[He made note of the hiss that was made, pin-pointing it to be 76's ribs. He had punched that area enough to know that the ribs wouldn't be fully healed yet, especially with the way that 76 kept at things. No rest, no healing, no good. How long had it been since he'd punched Morrison in the face and carried the guy over his shoulder back to an infirmary bed? At least two decades now.
Still, he had made his assessment and patted 76 lightly on the shoulder to indicate that he was finished with the bandaging. He dropped the extra back into 76's lap and eased himself backwards and to the side so they would both be more comfortable with their positions.
He narrowed his eyes at the excess growth of 76's beard, but he wasn't certain it was worth the fight. He could suggest a wash of it, even if it could use a trim.]
You should wash your face... and trim your beard. You're a mess.
[He stroked his own goatee, which was neat and trimmed as it always was. That was just a habit for him, and sometimes he was able to forget how good 76 looked with facial hair.]
And? You think your nightmares are any worse than mine?
[Claws ruffled through white hair before he was scooping up that bandaging and rolling it back in to some order just so he could stuff it back in to his bag. Re-ordering things in to something surprisingly neat considering how he carried himself. 76 let himself be a mess, but his bags were always so neatly and meticulously organized. Even now.
He also reached for his compression shirt once everything seemed in order.]
Trimmed it this morning.
[In the woods. With his knife. It was still surprisingly well trimmed, but it was starting to look like it needed another soon enough to at least shape it a bit neater-] Also, we're in a loft. doubt you've got running water in here so.
[He raised an eyebrow, finding himself skeptical of the claim. If that beard had been trimmed, it was probably with a knife. Those never made clean cuts and longer hairs would be left behind. He should know, since that's how he made it through much of the war. Razers were a novelty one couldn't afford.
He was pulling his own compression shirt back on, careful of his bandaging and tugging it into place. He had to rearrange his hair so it didn't pull before he was hauling his trench coat back on over his shoulders.]
Is that so? You look like a wild animal tried to help.
[He shook his head, disapproving, but perhaps their moment of peace together was going to be over now that they had mutually assisted one another.]
If only there was some source of water that you could use... [He remarked dryly as he tossed a full canteen of water over to 76. That should allow some washing of that mess.]
Shoulder the burdens until it cripples you? You don't change, Morrison.
More like a dragon kept trying to preen me once it figured out what I was doing.
[It was muttered just under his breath, and at the very least 76 was careful as he pulled his own compression shirt back on, making sure none of the bandaging around his torso was wrinkled up or pushed down. At least the tight black fabric would help keep it in place as he moved.
Shoulders rolled a bit, picking at the fabric in places before smoothing it out slowly, a leg stretched out in front of him where he sat. Other was bent, knee nearly level with his chest.
Did catch the canteen, an eyebrow arching as he actually turned where he sat to look at Reaper-] What, you got a razor I can borrow now, too?
[Peace not as over as Reaper might think given that dry comment.]
Neither do you, Reyes. Why are you offering to shoulder any of it?
I saw that you had a dragon. That must have been something that came to you from the other place, right?
[He hadn't seen many, if any, dragons fluttering around after all. It seemed to be wholly attached to 76 as well, which was probably for the best. A dragon probably didn't talk back as much and likely just demanded things, both of which were boons when dealing with 76 these days.
He pushed himself back so that he could lean on the wall again, stretching out one leg in front of him and pulling the other up so that he could rest his sewn up arm on to keep it elevated. It stung thanks to the treatment, but he knew it would feel better in a few days. Better to have it dealt with and finished.]
Yeah but you have to come closer for it. And maybe let me fix the mess you made of your beard. Wash up first.
[He was tired, and he knew 76 was too. Maybe they wouldn't get peace when around each other.]
That would mean you have to talk about your problems, and we both know you aren't going to do that. You don't trust me with information.
[76 hummed, a confirmation that yes the dragon came from the place he'd been in before. The only dragons around here seemed to be those little noodle like ones that spiced up food- and the pony sized wyverns out in the cliffs. Did they count as dragons or were wyverns a different thing? Did it matter?
Even while just making noise for a moment, he actually opened that canteen and cupped a hand to pour water in to, leaning in a way he wouldn't get water anywhere but his face and beard. No drops soaking through his shirt an in to bandages, thanks. That'd just be itchy.
Still listened all the same, using claws to help scrub out blood and dirt-]
You don't trust me with it either, so neither of us can talk when it comes to that, Reyes.
[Slinging water off his hand, pushing himself to his feet with a noise that was both a little pained and tired. Took the few steps to drop that closed canteen on to Reaper's bag
before 76 was dropping himself. Both against the wall and, surprisingly, Reaper's uninjured shoulder was leaned against, head tilted more near the wall and only one leg stretched out in front of him; bent knee propped a bit against the wall.]
[Confirmation enough, and for now, he was willing to leave it be when it came to inquiring for more information. He knew when to push and when to withdraw his curiosity. This information wasn't so important to him to require a push, so he would save that for a subject that he considered prudent to know about.
While he didn't entirely relax, he was calm and at ease as 76 washed up using the water that he had. It should be enough for them to wash their faces and drink to satisfy any thirst. He didn't stare, but he was aware of everything that was going on within the loft and below. The wind gently rustled the leaves of the tree that blocked the window - and provided a protected escape.
And he felt 76. The microscopic aspects of himself remained, hidden but allowing him a unique awareness he could tap into if he chose. It would be useful in future.]
That's because you're reckless with intel these days. I can at least be prudent. [Secretive and shrewd more like.
He watched 76 come closer, and he raised an eyebrow when the younger man plunked down next to him, even going so far as to lean on him. That was unexpected. A part of him was suspicious, but another accepted this as them being tired and keeping compromises.]
I don't have problems. I'm perfect. [So much sarcasm.]
I gave out enough to at least keep some idiots from killing themselves.
[Which did damn well hint at the fact he was keeping much more to himself, only gave what he thought would be useful to others. There was also that tone that he knew exactly what Reaper had done with it.
They'd both been injured that day in the alley way, after all.
There was a flick of a finger at the back of Reaper's ear for his sarcasm.]
You're making my point for me. [He was still leaning against Reaper all the same hand fallen back to rest on his own thigh. 76 kept his head rested against the wall, however.]
I honestly don't remember the last time I slept, outside of some fifteen minute rest.
Aren't you a hero? I remember you being more pro-active than that. Then again, this place like all the others is full of idiots.
[Sometimes the best advice was no advice because they were going to head off and do whatever they wanted anyway. There was a distinct lack of command or governmental structure here to keep people in line. Those kinds of free-for-alls were dangerous but also interesting to watch unfold.
He twitched his head away from the ear flick, offering a soft growl that again had no heat to it. He swatted lightly at 76's raised knee in reply.]
Hardly. I handle myself just fine these days.
[But that required considerable compartmentalization and also the memories of Deerington which kept him off of snarling for revenge the whole time.
He hummed in agreement. Consistent sleep was hard to come by, especially with how little they had ability to control who went to what dream or nightmare so far. That came with practice and luck.]
You need more consistent sleep then. You'll burn yourself out.
[Well that was said with a tired finality to it. So much so he wasn't even really going to touch the other part, because he wasn't going to argue against it. Agreed more than not that this place was filled with far too many people was filled with those who'd take something head on despite any danger for whatever reason.
Idiotic.
His knee moved a bit with the swat before knocking against Reaper's leg with the foot lightly.]
Our definitions of 'just fine' are likely not as up to par as either of us think.
[He felt he was handling himself just fine after all, and there were enough that would argue against that. Reaper was no different, no matter his own definition of it.
A blackened and clawed hand lifted up a bit, fingers curling as joints cracked from the movement-]
You know better than to deny it. A soldier is still a hero in some circles.
[He shrugged his shoulders a bit because it wasn't worth arguing about. He was sore and tired at this point, and for once, he was actually comfortable with keeping some company despite the danger 76 technically posed to him. Death wasn't final to him, so he expected that he would do just fine even if the asshole decided to take him out while his guard was slightly down.
He snorted, a faint bit of amusement finding its way into the noise.]
Fair enough. We have less tolerance for bullshit unless we're the ones heaping it.
[Especially personal bullshit. They could throw it all around until their eyes were brown from it and still they'd put up a front. That's just the way they were, had been since the war and probably before then too.
His leg moved with the knock but that was it. He made no effort to reply back in return. He was watching that hand and then, on a whim, lifted his own blackened one - far less severe looking than 76 - and held it up as if to compare them.]
It's your worst character feature. You should try to sleep for two hours. I can keep watch if it would put you at ease?
I'm not the one most want me to be. What they expect and demand I be.
[That was the point behind it all, that so many people put up some image of him in their head and expected him to live up to them all. His responsibility to uphold those images until he broke, and then it was his responsibility to take all of the anger and disappointment because he was still only human.
Only one man.]
Do as we say, not as we do. Fuck up enough and run in to the ground because it's how it's always been.
[Stubborn, even past what most wanted to be the very end. How else could he have dragged himself out of an attempt to kill him with so many casualties that were deemed exposable? Swipe off the heads, the rest would scatter and whatever else.
Ha, they nearly matched. Let his fingers stretch and spread out a little, held up next to Reaper's like that.]
[76 had been a different man back then, though he supposed not everything changed right? Still self-sacrificing, still stubborn, still trying to hold things together. There was a bitterness and angry resigned manner about the man now, less willing to take bullshit. The apparent need for some manner of isolation was interesting as well.
Still, he didn't expect there would be the same expectations here, what with the lack of publicity and history around that. No need to tout a war hero around when no one knew about the war.]
Technically, we have more stamina and resilience than normal men. All that shit that was injected into us.
[Even if it meant they just pushed themselves further. His fingers flexed beside the hand next to his, examining the differences and similarities. His fingers looked a bit thinner, beyond his fingers there was pale skin.]
I would have thought one of us keeping watch would be preferential. You'll sleep if I sleep?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
chiming
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 03:32 am (UTC)From:He wasn't going to force 76 to sit down, and if crouching was comfortable then so be it. It gave him better access to the area in question anyway, and he was curious how much of 76's lower back was rot from his bullet or corruption. There was only one way to find out, not that he would be wholly helpful and not a touch selfish on the matter.
Slowly, he rested his palm against the greatest portion of necrotic area, feeling the strong pulse of himself in the area.]
I believe that I can...
[It should bring relief honestly. He pressed his palm harder to the area and began to mentally draw himself out of the wound. He did so carefully so as not to create more damage by doing so, but he extracted himself at the deepest portion of 76's body. It was like calling himself home, taking back the missing parts of himself.
He also took his time, letting the heat of 76's back warm his hand.]
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 03:46 am (UTC)From:The amount of time he had spent digging and looking for someone—
There was a moment where pain was felt, that wound had been one of the most persistent things in his life. The pulse of ache, the constant burning. Feeling that pulling away, even slowly? If 76 wasn't already on his knees he'd be brought to them, the noise he made muffled, sinking further on his knees to the point his thighs spread further apart.
Only thing keeping him leaned forwards to any degree was Reaper's hand being where it was. Stopping the trickle of blood only to a point that it still seeped between those blackened fingers and over his hand.
It was bringing a sort of relief, slowly as Reaper was going. 76's skin as warm as it ever was, warming further as his own body was kicking in to heal a bit behind the removal. To fight the necrosis in a way it hadn't been able to.]
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 04:23 am (UTC)From:[He was keenly aware of 76's sinking further down in the crouch, and his hand followed to keep contact. His eyes were closed at this point, concentrating on what he was doing as he withdrew himself, and the feel of hot blood over his hand the longer that he worked. Of course, he knew without his bullet fragments that the wound would heal on its own.
He pulled more of himself free, sighing softly. Yet, at the very end of removing all the fragments, he left just small traces of himself behind, so tiny that 76's body shouldn't react as it had before.
That finished and smoothed his hand over what had been the necrotic wound. The skin would look healthier, reddened by blood flow to the area but little, if any, visible traces of black.]
There. I assume that feel better?
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 04:35 am (UTC)From:76 was dealing with the odd relief he was feeling from a wound that had been a constant pain. The itch of healing that was coming with it the only real discomfort that was following. Hell of an experience, even if it could be seen as something so small- but it wasn't.
Hands pressed to the floor, keeping himself up as he sat heavily on his knees. Fuck's sake. It was weird. Skin bloodied, but that could be washed and wiped away.
Let out a shuddering breath, pushing himself up a little.]
Other than the usual healing itch? Yeah. [The only black that remained on his skin was from the corruption at least. The wound would heal, likely be another new scar, but that was fine.]
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 04:58 am (UTC)From:He watched the healing injury, and he expected that it would be fine now. Soon enough it would be nothing more than another scar in the sea of many of them. He would say that 76 owed him for that, but honestly, the younger man had done good work on his arm so they were probably even.]
That should go away in a day or two with your healing factor.
[Of course, he had a much better look at the corruption, and it was still rather extensive. At least 76 was stable and not lashing out.]
When was the last time you slept?
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 05:06 am (UTC)From:Give or take.
[Already working on the bandaging, wrapping it around his own waist as an easy enough task after all. Sitting on his knees-]
Does that matter?
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 05:51 am (UTC)From:He shoved 76 on the shoulder.]
Give me that. You don't even have an absorbent pad for the blood.
[He pulled his pack closer to grab the item and gestured for 76 to sit back so he could take over. It would not be pleasant if he had to fight for it.]
It does because you still look like garbage and the corruption is all over you.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 05:59 am (UTC)From:Actually sat down, finally, as well. Not just on his knees, but a full settling.]
Fine, only because you let me do your shoulder and hand both.
[He could give that much, scrubbing a little at his beard with the heel of a hand before those claws smoothed it back out.]
I always look like garbage, and I doubt sleep will help with that.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 07:52 pm (UTC)From:So glad we remain at the tit-for-tat level of allowing basic human decency to happen between us.
[It was cutting a bit too close to the sensation of 'old times' even briefly, and he expected that both of them were aware of it and wary about it. There was too much history there.
No matter, not right now. He pressed the absorbent cotton pad up against 76's back to cover the worst of the wound. Then he nudged 76's arms up a touch so he could being to wrap the pad in place, keeping things snug. He was keenly aware of the sound of claws in facial hair, something he did when not wearing his mask.]
It won't hurt, you know. Maybe you'll work out some of this corruption.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-01 11:51 pm (UTC)From:[There was the light swat at Reaper's hand from the knuckle knocking, but there was no real weigh behind it. Aware of it of course, and the tit-for-tat worked; an easy excuse to not just think about the fact they were still willing to... well.
76 lifted his arms and sat as straight as he needed to in order to allow Reaper To have easier access and not cause his work to end up being too loose. Mindful of hand movements and just where the older man was. Keeping his eyes forward all the same.]
Maybe it'll make it that much worse, too.
[It was grumbled, but that was about as much as 76 could manage. Of course this close it could be noticed there was a slight pointing of his ears—]
Don't feel like chancing some random wandering in to a nightmare.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-02 12:01 am (UTC)From:[So no, he wasn't complaining about it yet. If anything, he saw no reason to complain when the fact that they did better when working together was apparent. After all, his arm wouldn't have been sewn up and bandaged if not for 76, and the younger man wouldn't have an old festering wound heal if not for him. It was as close to working together as they would manage.
He worked the bandage to where it needed to be, wrapping it tighter at the top to prevent slipping. That done, he ran his hands over it from ribs down and then back to front to check for bulging or missed areas. In his own way, he was also checking for signs of pain in other areas while he was gently smoothing his hands over areas.]
What if... we slept next to each other?
[He knew what he was suggesting. If they did, it could equal good rest, an opportunity to have their revenge on each other, or it could mean entering one or the other's nightmare.]
There's always your bloody corn field, I guess.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-02 12:09 am (UTC)From:Still, he was keeping as still as he could. 76 even had a hand rested on top of his head, just to help remember he needed to keep arms up and out of the way. Claws still idly fussing over his facial hair, picking out bits of dried blood and smoothing it down. Probably needed to trim the damn thing again soon. Only reason he had in the first place was because it was getting caught in his mask and that was irritating—
There was a bit of a hiss as hands moved over a place at his ribs, probably telling there was still bruising there. An ugly sort of yellow and purple on skin hidden under the blackened skin where corruption decorated along ribs on both sides. 76 had not been resting properly for them to heal, as if at every turn there was something preventing it.
His head tilted just enough he could look back at Reaper from the corner of an eye.]
That damned cornfield is the nicest thing my head has to offer.
[A warning? Perhaps, if only because he knew exactly what Reaper was offering.]
no subject
Date: 2021-12-02 12:35 am (UTC)From:Still, he had made his assessment and patted 76 lightly on the shoulder to indicate that he was finished with the bandaging. He dropped the extra back into 76's lap and eased himself backwards and to the side so they would both be more comfortable with their positions.
He narrowed his eyes at the excess growth of 76's beard, but he wasn't certain it was worth the fight. He could suggest a wash of it, even if it could use a trim.]
You should wash your face... and trim your beard. You're a mess.
[He stroked his own goatee, which was neat and trimmed as it always was. That was just a habit for him, and sometimes he was able to forget how good 76 looked with facial hair.]
And? You think your nightmares are any worse than mine?
no subject
Date: 2021-12-02 12:55 am (UTC)From:He also reached for his compression shirt once everything seemed in order.]
Trimmed it this morning.
[In the woods. With his knife. It was still surprisingly well trimmed, but it was starting to look like it needed another soon enough to at least shape it a bit neater-] Also, we're in a loft. doubt you've got running water in here so.
[Sitting back then, letting out a slight huff.]
Rather keep the damn things to myself.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-02 01:29 am (UTC)From:He was pulling his own compression shirt back on, careful of his bandaging and tugging it into place. He had to rearrange his hair so it didn't pull before he was hauling his trench coat back on over his shoulders.]
Is that so? You look like a wild animal tried to help.
[He shook his head, disapproving, but perhaps their moment of peace together was going to be over now that they had mutually assisted one another.]
If only there was some source of water that you could use... [He remarked dryly as he tossed a full canteen of water over to 76. That should allow some washing of that mess.]
Shoulder the burdens until it cripples you? You don't change, Morrison.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-02 01:48 am (UTC)From:[It was muttered just under his breath, and at the very least 76 was careful as he pulled his own compression shirt back on, making sure none of the bandaging around his torso was wrinkled up or pushed down. At least the tight black fabric would help keep it in place as he moved.
Shoulders rolled a bit, picking at the fabric in places before smoothing it out slowly, a leg stretched out in front of him where he sat. Other was bent, knee nearly level with his chest.
Did catch the canteen, an eyebrow arching as he actually turned where he sat to look at Reaper-] What, you got a razor I can borrow now, too?
[Peace not as over as Reaper might think given that dry comment.]
Neither do you, Reyes. Why are you offering to shoulder any of it?
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Date: 2021-12-02 02:27 am (UTC)From:[He hadn't seen many, if any, dragons fluttering around after all. It seemed to be wholly attached to 76 as well, which was probably for the best. A dragon probably didn't talk back as much and likely just demanded things, both of which were boons when dealing with 76 these days.
He pushed himself back so that he could lean on the wall again, stretching out one leg in front of him and pulling the other up so that he could rest his sewn up arm on to keep it elevated. It stung thanks to the treatment, but he knew it would feel better in a few days. Better to have it dealt with and finished.]
Yeah but you have to come closer for it. And maybe let me fix the mess you made of your beard. Wash up first.
[He was tired, and he knew 76 was too. Maybe they wouldn't get peace when around each other.]
That would mean you have to talk about your problems, and we both know you aren't going to do that. You don't trust me with information.
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Date: 2021-12-02 02:36 am (UTC)From:Even while just making noise for a moment, he actually opened that canteen and cupped a hand to pour water in to, leaning in a way he wouldn't get water anywhere but his face and beard. No drops soaking through his shirt an in to bandages, thanks. That'd just be itchy.
Still listened all the same, using claws to help scrub out blood and dirt-]
You don't trust me with it either, so neither of us can talk when it comes to that, Reyes.
[Slinging water off his hand, pushing himself to his feet with a noise that was both a little pained and tired. Took the few steps to drop that closed canteen on to Reaper's bag
before 76 was dropping himself. Both against the wall and, surprisingly, Reaper's uninjured shoulder was leaned against, head tilted more near the wall and only one leg stretched out in front of him; bent knee propped a bit against the wall.]
Just as much of a kettle as I am a pot, asshole.
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Date: 2021-12-02 03:46 am (UTC)From:While he didn't entirely relax, he was calm and at ease as 76 washed up using the water that he had. It should be enough for them to wash their faces and drink to satisfy any thirst. He didn't stare, but he was aware of everything that was going on within the loft and below. The wind gently rustled the leaves of the tree that blocked the window - and provided a protected escape.
And he felt 76. The microscopic aspects of himself remained, hidden but allowing him a unique awareness he could tap into if he chose. It would be useful in future.]
That's because you're reckless with intel these days. I can at least be prudent. [Secretive and shrewd more like.
He watched 76 come closer, and he raised an eyebrow when the younger man plunked down next to him, even going so far as to lean on him. That was unexpected. A part of him was suspicious, but another accepted this as them being tired and keeping compromises.]
I don't have problems. I'm perfect. [So much sarcasm.]
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Date: 2021-12-02 03:55 am (UTC)From:[Which did damn well hint at the fact he was keeping much more to himself, only gave what he thought would be useful to others. There was also that tone that he knew exactly what Reaper had done with it.
They'd both been injured that day in the alley way, after all.
There was a flick of a finger at the back of Reaper's ear for his sarcasm.]
You're making my point for me. [He was still leaning against Reaper all the same hand fallen back to rest on his own thigh. 76 kept his head rested against the wall, however.]
I honestly don't remember the last time I slept, outside of some fifteen minute rest.
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Date: 2021-12-02 05:49 am (UTC)From:[Sometimes the best advice was no advice because they were going to head off and do whatever they wanted anyway. There was a distinct lack of command or governmental structure here to keep people in line. Those kinds of free-for-alls were dangerous but also interesting to watch unfold.
He twitched his head away from the ear flick, offering a soft growl that again had no heat to it. He swatted lightly at 76's raised knee in reply.]
Hardly. I handle myself just fine these days.
[But that required considerable compartmentalization and also the memories of Deerington which kept him off of snarling for revenge the whole time.
He hummed in agreement. Consistent sleep was hard to come by, especially with how little they had ability to control who went to what dream or nightmare so far. That came with practice and luck.]
You need more consistent sleep then. You'll burn yourself out.
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Date: 2021-12-02 05:57 am (UTC)From:[Well that was said with a tired finality to it. So much so he wasn't even really going to touch the other part, because he wasn't going to argue against it. Agreed more than not that this place was filled with far too many people was filled with those who'd take something head on despite any danger for whatever reason.
Idiotic.
His knee moved a bit with the swat before knocking against Reaper's leg with the foot lightly.]
Our definitions of 'just fine' are likely not as up to par as either of us think.
[He felt he was handling himself just fine after all, and there were enough that would argue against that. Reaper was no different, no matter his own definition of it.
A blackened and clawed hand lifted up a bit, fingers curling as joints cracked from the movement-]
When do I not burn myself out?
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Date: 2021-12-02 06:11 am (UTC)From:[He shrugged his shoulders a bit because it wasn't worth arguing about. He was sore and tired at this point, and for once, he was actually comfortable with keeping some company despite the danger 76 technically posed to him. Death wasn't final to him, so he expected that he would do just fine even if the asshole decided to take him out while his guard was slightly down.
He snorted, a faint bit of amusement finding its way into the noise.]
Fair enough. We have less tolerance for bullshit unless we're the ones heaping it.
[Especially personal bullshit. They could throw it all around until their eyes were brown from it and still they'd put up a front. That's just the way they were, had been since the war and probably before then too.
His leg moved with the knock but that was it. He made no effort to reply back in return. He was watching that hand and then, on a whim, lifted his own blackened one - far less severe looking than 76 - and held it up as if to compare them.]
It's your worst character feature. You should try to sleep for two hours. I can keep watch if it would put you at ease?
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Date: 2021-12-02 06:27 am (UTC)From:[That was the point behind it all, that so many people put up some image of him in their head and expected him to live up to them all. His responsibility to uphold those images until he broke, and then it was his responsibility to take all of the anger and disappointment because he was still only human.
Only one man.]
Do as we say, not as we do. Fuck up enough and run in to the ground because it's how it's always been.
[Stubborn, even past what most wanted to be the very end. How else could he have dragged himself out of an attempt to kill him with so many casualties that were deemed exposable? Swipe off the heads, the rest would scatter and whatever else.
Ha, they nearly matched. Let his fingers stretch and spread out a little, held up next to Reaper's like that.]
If you think I need sleep, what about you.
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Date: 2021-12-02 06:37 am (UTC)From:[76 had been a different man back then, though he supposed not everything changed right? Still self-sacrificing, still stubborn, still trying to hold things together. There was a bitterness and angry resigned manner about the man now, less willing to take bullshit. The apparent need for some manner of isolation was interesting as well.
Still, he didn't expect there would be the same expectations here, what with the lack of publicity and history around that. No need to tout a war hero around when no one knew about the war.]
Technically, we have more stamina and resilience than normal men. All that shit that was injected into us.
[Even if it meant they just pushed themselves further. His fingers flexed beside the hand next to his, examining the differences and similarities. His fingers looked a bit thinner, beyond his fingers there was pale skin.]
I would have thought one of us keeping watch would be preferential. You'll sleep if I sleep?
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