bakerstreet | the i n s o m n i a meme

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the i n s o m n i a meme

the i n s o m n i a meme

It happens to everyone - sometimes, you have nights where you just can't fall asleep, no matter what you do. It could be for a number of reasons, or no reason at all. And this is what's happened now: you've been laying in bed for what feels like hours, just tossing and turning, and nothing seems to help. So what's left to do? Get out of bed and go wake someone else up, of course. If you're not getting any sleep, then why should they?

i n s t r u c t i o n s

• Post with your character (note the name and fandom in the subject).
• Other people reply to you by generating a number from 1 to 10.
• Have fun!

o p t i o n s

01 • FEAR. Maybe you're hearing strange, indeterminable noises; maybe there's a severe storm happening outside; maybe you watched a scary movie before bed? Whatever the reason, you're terrified and it's keeping you awake. You just want to wake someone else up so they can protect you from the monster in your closet.
02 • HUNGER. Your stomach is growling and it just won't stop. Or perhaps your throat is so dry you could cough up a tumbleweed? Well, you've gone to the kitchen to remedy this and hey, that was a pan that just dropped on the floor. It was loud enough to wake the dead! Oops.
03 • PAIN. Your body is completely worn out, be it from exercise, battle, sickness, or what have you. Either way you're in enough pain to keep you from sleeping, so maybe someone else has a home remedy or something, or can at least help you take your mind off of it.
04 • SOLITUDE. For some reason, your bed just feels so empty at the moment. You're feeling terribly lonely and really just want someone to keep you company for a while. Maybe it'd be easier to fall asleep if you're with them...
05 • DISCOMFORT. Your room is an oven. Either that or a freezer. Or maybe this bed is just really uncomfortable? Who knows why you can't get to sleep, it feels like it could be anything. Why even bother trying? Maybe someone else can preoccupy you until you feel tired enough to ignore your discomfort.
06 • PENSIVE. Something's on your mind, and no matter how hard you try to focus elsewhere, it's just not going to work. Your body may be tired, but your mind is incredibly busy and it's virtually impossible to get to sleep. Surely, talking it out with someone else will help?
07 • SADNESS. Something terrible has happened that day, perhaps; or you could just be severely depressed. Either way you're trying your hardest not to cry yourself to sleep, and it's not working at all. Better find a way to get it out of your system somehow; you need a shoulder to cry on.
08 • ANGER. You are just... fuming. Who knows why - that annoying dog is barking again, or maybe the people next door are getting busy and keeping you awake. Whatever the reason for your ire is, you'd better put an end to it so you can get some damn rest already! Go wake up a friend so you can complain to them.
09 • RESTLESS. You're far too energetic to sleep right now. Maybe you're just trying to do so out of necessity - you have to be up early tomorrow! But you just don't think you'll be able to fall asleep for a while now, so why waste the time trying to sleep when you could be doing something else? Namely bothering someone else - you're totally jealous because they're getting more sleep than you.
10 • WILDCARD. Choose one of the options above, or make up your own scenario.

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Well then. If we are searching for the same object, perhaps a joint effort might be more worthwhile.

[ He is lacking his usual resources, his agents, all the things that would have made the search go much easier. But he's not opposed to doing his own legwork when needed. And if this elf is anything to go by, perhaps assisting his cause might benefit this world as well. A though he is not opposed to.

Wrathion's eyebrow cocks higher. ]

Are you permitted to make such decisions for the Inquisition?

...Perhaps.

[ He adjusts his stance slightly, glancing back to the fire as he considers the option.

He supposes they could have worse allies, if the 'Black Prince' truly commits himself to assisting the Inquisition in ridding Thedas of Corypheus, and Lasulahn is not keen to add any more enemies to the list. But the idea that Wrathion comes from another world entirely is hard to swallow, and he knows he will not be the only one with that opinion. He turns towards the other once more. ]

I am, though I will not make that decision alone. If you truly intend to aid our cause with the assurance that we will aid yours in turn, I will discuss it with the others.

[ He pauses a moment, then his voice softens a little, a slight frown creasing his brow. ] You must understand, our enemies feel as numerous as our allies, and they are powerful besides. More than that, both your kind and the idea of 'other worlds' are entirely unfamiliar to most, if not all.

Even when such a thing lies just the other side of dreaming? How adorably quaint.

[ He shakes his head, glancing away for a moment, eyes narrowed. When he looks back to the elf, looking so very concerned, he feels like perhaps...he could stand be a little more understanding. He's in their world now, after all.

Quietly, he clears his throat. ]

Forgive me. It can be a startling thing, realizing that yours is not the only world in existence. Much less that you would ever meet someone from beyond the bounds of said world. I assure you, I will give them my utmost patience as they come to terms with these unusual circumstances.

[ Never let it be said he was not gracious.

Of course the idea that he's the one who has to prove himself? Hasn't seemed to occur to him. ]

[ The furrow in his brow deepens, though his voice remains soft. ] Yes, even then. Further, the threats we suffer now limit our view because we must focus on defending ourselves.

[ The Inquisitor's expression relaxes, and he lifts a hand in a reassuring sort of gesture. ] It is appreciated.

[ He hums thoughtfully then, pressing a finger to his lips. ] It is late, and I would not wake my companions right now. Would you be comfortable here? I can fetch you a bedroll, and food if you're hungry. It is safe in here, and the fire will keep for the rest of the night.

And then, where is it we will be going? I don't suppose you have a...headquarters. Perhaps someplace with a well-stocked library?

[ The question of food? Delicately dodged for the time being. ]

I'd be very interested in learning more of your world and how it functions, though I can hardly keep you up at night asking tedious questions like some curious child. And in exchange for your hospitality, I can of course offer service in kind.

Perhaps this will satisfy those who question my intentions here, as well.

We do, though there's work to be finished here before we might return. A week, if all goes well.

[ Though there's still the matter of taking back Suledin Keep, which will be no small matter. Though, perhaps with a literal dragon on their side... and certainly it would go a long way in 'satisfying those who question his intentions', as the man put it.

He thinks on it for a moment, and decides to make the proposal. ] If you're wishing to prove yourself, I could think of no more straightforward a task than assisting us in taking back the Emprise- and it may be the swifter for your aid. There is a stronghold held by the Red Templars nearby. We know a way in, but what we will find in there is another matter.

If that is not to your taste, I understand. [ And he does understand. It is a lot to ask of a tentative ally who knows nothing of the Inquisition. Dragon or not, the Red Templars are no minor foe. ]

And I should be happy to answer all your questions. [ A smile. ] Though, perhaps after some sleep, yes.

You want me to fight your monsters.

[ His tone is slightly incredulous, expression oddly blank for a moment or two.

Then that very wide, sharp smile of his returns, and he huffs in quiet amusement, folding his hands behind him with the air of someone about to close on a deal they're quite happy with. ]

Noble Inquisitor. Is that all?

[ A look of faint concern crosses his expression, but Lasulahn waits until the other has posed his question to answer. ]

It is an offer, not an expectation. It is dangerous - you saw yourself the effect of red lyrium at even a brief exposure. And I would not demand you put yourself in harms way to prove your intentions. Only that, should it be the choice you prefer, it is both acceptable and appreciated.

[ He spreads his hands before folding them around his staff. ] If you've other ideas, I'm happy to hear them. If you're pleased with that, then yes I suppose 'that is all'.

I suppose more intellectual offerings can wait until we're well away from this place, and the immediate threat is dealt with, no?

[ He rolls a shoulder, tipping his head until the muscle feels loosened to his satisfaction. He'd been lying there on his side for a while. A little payback seemed more than warranted. ]

Very well. I accept your offer, and am at your disposal.

Yes. [ The elf seems to relax some, and a warmer smile graces his expression. ] Tomorrow, then, I shall introduce you to my companions. What might I bring you so you're more comfortable?

[ A pause, looking momentarily thoughtful. ] And what do you prefer I call you? I know your name and your title, but which would you have me use?

[ There's a certain amount of grace one offers, after helping to save someone...and whether he likes to admit it or not, that's very much the case here. The Red Lyrium might have caused some very serious problems down the line if not for the intervention of this elf.

It's the persisting kindness that intrigues him. Offering such hospitality and relative trust to a stranger, one who presented such fantastic and unbelievable details as to his origins and intentions, was either a mark of nobility or foolishness. Perhaps both.

Wrathion certainly doesn't intend to abuse that trust, but it's remarkable to be given it all the same. One of the benefits, he supposes, of visiting a world that has never heard of his father.

The smirk that curls at the corner of his mouth is a softer one by far than the grin of moments past. ]

Wrathion will do, Inquisitor. And do not trouble yourself on my behalf just yet. I'm quite capable of keeping myself warm through the night.

[ Lasulahn isn't sure what to make of the idea of a world other than this, and the Fade, but he cannot deny that he saw Wrathion turn from a dragon into a man, and that is either a very good illusion, or a skill that could serve their cause, regardless of his tale.

He was perhaps taking a risk, and he has no doubt that his companions will tell him as much, but for all that the humans of the world have done his people wrong time and again, Lasulahn is (very cautiously) optimistic about individuals. At least, he is so enough to give them a chance. That is all he can ask for in return, being put in this position. ]

Wrathion, then. And please, Lasulahn is fine. [ It's a small, vain hope- few actually call him by his name. He supposes he dislikes 'Inquisitor' less than 'Herald', though.

He gives the other a quizzical look. ] Well, yes, but sleeping on a stone floor can hardly be comfortable. And are you not hungry?

[ He simply nods. A person's matter of address is their choice, one of the few some ever get. ]

Lasulahn, then.

[ There's a pause, and the elf's puzzled look earns a chuckle. ]

While I don't turn away a soft feather bed when allowed one, you do know where dragons usually sleep, yes? I think there should be enough room in this hall for me to settle in quite nicely.

[ One hand gestures idly around them. ]

Scales prove far less sensitive to discomforts than flesh.

Ah - well, alright.

[ It finally occurs to him after the second time that Wrathion hasn't addressed his question about food. While he's curious, he'll take the subtle suggestion for now. ]

Then, I'll return in the morning?

I look forward to it.

[ He inclines politely, and as the elf makes to excuse himself from the ruin, Wrathion takes the opportunity to shift back. Once again a swirl of smoke and ash appears, and from it unfurls the much larger frame of the black dragon, who settles himself upon the cool stone in a semi-curled position. Almost catlike, really.

Come morning, there are several animal carcasses outside of the ruin, mostly devoured. Slightly charred where they lie in the snow. Which answers the question of food rather succinctly. ]

[ He's not sure he'll be able to get used to that change, though it is fascinating. He bids a pleasant good night to the Black Prince, and excuses himself with the promise of returning.

The camp is close- within earshot, really, just beyond a small tunnel formed of stone with a few mostly destroyed outcroppings of red lyrium, so the path to and from takes but a few minutes.

Though he is more tired for the late hour and trudging through the snow, it is no easier for Lasulahn to sleep, particularly after such a strange meeting. In the morning, he's not entirely sure it wasn't a particularly vivid dream. A dragon that can turn into a man, who hails from another world? But the agent, sitting around the campfire and awaiting breakfast, confirms both Lasulahn's trip outside the camp, and the strange sounds that they had paid little mind, but the Inquisitor had felt the need to investigate.

He explains to his companions the situation, and as much as he thought, few are keen about it. Solas points out (with some sense of disdain) that some scholars believe in the inevitability of the existence of other worlds aside from the Fade, and Dorian agrees, though equally points out there has been no proof. Vivienne and Cassandra aren't so sure the man Lasulahn saw isn't a demon. Cole insists that he's not, but the spirit also isn't sure what he might be instead. The Iron Bull seems a little unhealthily excited about the prospect of a dragon joining their bizarre party- and just as excited about the chance to kill said dragon, should the dragon betray their tentative trust. Varric mutters something about not being able to put this in his book because no one would 'believe this shit', and Sera wonders if she can ride the dragon.

In the end, they agree to at least wait and see, and give Wrathion a chance. The Inquisition needs all the allies it can get. It's decided that they will prepare to take back Suledin Keep, and will march as soon as Wrathion is ready.

The Inquisitor returns to Valeska's Watch after breakfast, and brings with him cheese, bread, and cured meats along with some hot tea. Seeing the relative carnage outside the ruins, though, suggests that perhaps such a meal wouldn't be to the dragons particular ah, taste. He knocks politely to alert to his presence, and pushes the great door open gently. ]

[ Inside is a much more sedate scene, no bones or viscera, just a man calmly sat on a fallen bit of masonry and writing something in a journal. His eyes lift once Lasulahn returns, and he quickly huffs a breath across the ink to dry it before letting the pages fall shut with a heavy 'thmp' ]

My friend. Ah. What's this?

[ He smells it first, rather than sees the food that he's seen fit to bring, and his expression softens somewhat. Oh. Isn't that dear.

He can't very well turn it away. That'd just be terrible manners, not fit for a prince at all. ]

You know, I was just thinking I still had some room in me. Should we dine here?

Good morning.

[ He glances around the room. It seems to have remained warm, though the fire he'd lit last night flares a little at his passing for good measure.

The smile he gives Wrathion is sheepish, like an apprentice comparing their work to a master's after being proud of their efforts and then realizing how much it pales in comparison. ] Yes, that's fine. I ah- had thought you might be hungry.

[ He delicately avoids the topic of the carcasses outside, but it's clear he's connected the dots. Still, he sets out a cloth on the masonry next to Wrathion that's mostly level, followed by the food, and procures two tin cups from his pack for the tea. ] Did you sleep well enough?

A light doze and little more. Something about this place, perhaps. But it is no matter. Please.

[ And he sweeps a hand graciously for him to join him on this fallen pillar, which is luckily flat enough to support the makeshift spread. It's terribly quaint, but if anything that only makes him smile.

To have so little, and still find enough to spare for a stranger, is no small thing. In his travels, he'd noticed the difference in reception enough times to know that his intuition served him well. Lasulahn was exactly the sort of person he'd been hoping to find. ]

I imagine we will all sleep more soundly tonight, at any rate.

Between the cold, the red lyrium, the rifts and the Red Templars... well. [ Yes, perhaps it was better to leave it at 'something about this place'.

He spreads out the options, sparing as they are, but it's a healthy amount for at least one person. The elf pours tea, and picks up his cup, apparently set on that rather than eating. ]

I cannot say camp is any more comfortable than this. At the very least, these ruins seem to have kept the warmth in well enough.

[ He pauses for a moment, hands curled around the cup for warmth, the rim brought close to his lips. He looks up to Wrathion. ] I mentioned you to my companions, and they've agreed if you're still of the mind to join us and aid our cause. We will be ready by midday to march on Suledin Keep, though it will be at your word.

[ He taps the cup with a fingertip as though thinking, then continues. ] I don't wish to deceive you, so I will say it plainly: Corypheus is the creature in possession of what I assume is the item you seek, but I cannot guarantee what will become of that item, nor it's effectiveness now that the Anchor has become separated. Corypheus told me I had 'spoilt it' somehow, and I do not know if that merely means his plan, or the artifact itself. But, I will do all I can, and you will have the Inquisition's resources at your disposal.

I appreciate your honesty. I find it's much easier to speak plainly, even when the news may not be pleasant to hear.

[ In this, he was quite different from his brethren, who preferred lies and manipulation. Pointless theatrics meant to stoke the ego, as far as he could see. Hardly of use, particularly when the deceptions were uncovered. Poor Aunt Onyxia had never understood her crucial error.

But nevermind that now.

Taking a bit of bread and meat, he leans back against the rubble, one foot propped up, looking every bit the lord of this ruined hall holding court. As if he were entertaining the elf, and not the other way around. ]

From the sound of it, this Corypheus is an enemy of yours. So it would seem our goals are somewhat aligned. Should I find a way to track the power of this item, knowing his location would undoubtedly be of benefit to you, no?

I wish more felt as you do.

[ Lasulahn sits far more demurely, knees and ankles tucked together at a slight angle, hands still wrapped around his cup of tea. ]

He is the one that caused the explosion at the Conclave - a gathering of leaders of a growing conflict that now sees no easy path to resolution. He has killed the Divine - the head of the Chantry. If what we know is true, he also seeks to do a great deal more damage than he already has, and that is with the sky already torn open and rifts everywhere, demons pouring out of them.

It would be of great use, yes. We might be able to prepare, and to end this finally. [ Without stopping to put out fires, as it were, with the Wardens, Empress Celene, the Venatori presence... ]

[ While he has little in the way of context, the methods are that of a tyrant, undoubtedly. Killing off important faction leaders, causing chaos that threatens everyone and divides attention from whatever plans he might actually have for this very powerful artifact...no doubt he needs to be stopped.

But he notes, also, the weariness in Lasulahn as he speaks. This struggle against Corypheus has clearly been going on for some time, and the toll of war is a familiar one to see. Kind hearts often suffer worst, as he quietly remembers a friend from home.

No wonder he wasn't asleep last night.

That rather settles how he feels on the matter, then. There's a resolute nod as he reaches for his own cup of tea. ]

Then I see no reason I should not share what I discover with you, along the way. Perhaps an outside perspective might prove useful, should you wish for my input.

There were many such tyrants in my own world, and I've studied them over the years. Their methods...and their ultimate downfalls.

I should be grateful for the opinion of one not mired in the politics of this world, yes.

[ He sips quietly at his tea. ] Solas, an elf similar to myself, may prove a good resource. You'll meet him shortly. He has a great deal of knowledge on such things.

[ Green eyes lift back to Wrathion's gaze. ] Corypheus claims to be a man that is integral to the stories of human religion- that he was a man who broke into the Fade physically, into the center of what was once called the Golden City. If he speaks true, he is both ancient and powerful, and one of the original Darkspawn- a constant blight on this world in the eras since. There have been five Blights thus far- the last ending only ten years ago. Darkspawn still infest the Deep Roads and occasionally break through to the surface.

[ He sighs. ] Getting rid of Corypheus wouldn't get rid of the Darkspawn, but he is trouble enough on his own, without his being one of them.

One threat at a time is generally the way to go about these sorts of things, yes.

[ Mildly, he sets the cup upon his knee, head cocking just so. ]

Though if what he says is true...the idea of him being able to pass one barrier is troubling enough. I shudder to think what would happen if he ever learned what you have.

[ That there are other worlds. Other realms he might seek to make his own. Such things the inhabitants of this world could only dream of. Certainly he'd need to be stopped before it ever came to that.

Preferably before this world suffered irreparable damage at his hands. ]

...how was it you came upon all this, then?

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