[On a stairwell, Vanya gets to experience observing the distinctly predatory gleam in a particular young lady's eye when she happens to look up and spot him from two dozen stairs off. And behold! The ominous sensation of impending doom that comes from marking Wysteria de Foncé hiking her skirts a half inch higher so she might ascend the stairs at a slightly more aggressive pace.
Worst, and most.terrifying of all:]
Ser Orlov! I've been looking for you.
congratulations on getting his official glasses debut
[Vanya, to his credit or otherwise, doesn't try to duck away or pretend he hasn't seen her. On the contrary. Once he realizes she's trying to catch up, he stops and waits for her, to one side in case someone comes down the other way.]
Madame de de Foncé, [by way of greeting, along with a small nod.] How can I be of assistance?
[It likely says more about him than her that he assumes there's some task, rather than a social motive, behind anyone looking for him with any enthusiasm.]
[To be entirely fair to the both of them, she has something of a track record of demanding assistance. Surely this is the logical conclusion even someone with a perfectly adequate sense of self might leap to!
In any case, he's not incorrect. She has hardly closed the distance before launching her assault.]
How good of you to ask! As it happens, there is a little thing I should like your opinion on. You may remember the conversation we had some time ago as to the dosage and effects of lyrium. You see, I have plans to advance my research of that very thing this summer, and I wondered whether you might be willing to act as a sort of consultant. Ser Barrow has been very obliging as to the administration of the dose, but was rather nonspecific as to the frequency and measure. I suspect it has to do with the duration for which he's been taking the stuff, and would like a second opinion as to what I should be mindful of before I go about testing it on myself.
[Deep breath. But no, she isn't finished yet.]
I have a number of questions I would like to ask, and an affidavit I would have you put your signature to if possible. In order to placate certain parties so that I've done my due diligence and don't require the oversight of half the infirmary, you see.
[Whether or not he expected her to have dropped the subject, he may have hoped she would. Faced with such direct evidence to the contrary, he is given true pause. On the one hand, it feels irresponsible to refuse and leave her to potentially less-cautious alternatives. On the other hand, it feels in some ways like a sort of test. A cosmic one, rather than one of Wysteria's deliberate design, but all the same.]
I will answer you what questions I can. I cannot promise to sign the affidavit until I've read it, but I will do what I'm able to help. I only ... are you quite sure that experimentation on yourself is the only way to proceed?
Quite certain, as I represent a unique case and my participation is required to see the study done thoroughly. [Come now, Ser Orlov (and everyone else who has looked at her very skeptically for suggesting this); there are hardly many Rifters walking around without their anchor shards, now are there? Suffice to say, she doesn't linger on this particular question of being quite sure any longer than is necessary, breezing directly to:]
But very good. I should be most happy and grateful for your assistance! Here, we may go to the old Felandaris office directly. I will ask my questions on the way, and you may review and sign the affidavit when we get there. I've written it down already.
[Here, he must take her arm and go with her back up the stairs, suggests the thrust of her elbow in Vanya's direction. Obviously, he is far too gentlemanly to refuse such an offering.]
[He certainly is, taking her arm with automatic manners that she has correctly identified.]
As you are a unique case, is it truly so pressing to know how lyrium will affect you? I mean to say, will you learn anything more applicable beyond your particular situation?
[He's aware it's a weak gambit, but he does feel obligated to make it all the same.]
[This warrants the first flicking look of impatience out of her, as if at any many she might sigh out, Ser Orlov, please. You're as unimaginative as the Ambassador.
It's fine. This gives her the opportunity to steer him round on the stairwell and begin leading him in the direction she would prefer.]
As a matter of fact, it does. As the only Rifter on our company who no longer has an anchor, it would seem critical to determine whether lyrium has the same affects on me as a Rifter, or like a native of Thedas. It might tell us a great deal about the use of lyrium. More importantly still, imagine what we might reveal regarding the nature of Rifters! This is an important—no, vital! Point of evidence in the work I'm pursuing, Mister Orlov.
[He does not convey the impression of being fully convinced on this point. He is, at least, still letting her steer.]
I suppose, having gone through the process of discontinuing its use recently, I wish to spare you its effects. But perhaps I don't understand the nature of your research, as a Forces member.
[He is the first to admit he doesn't know much about science, native or rifter.]
These effects. Perhaps you might kindly describe them, so that I may include a note about them in the precautions I supply to the study's other participants. Obviously I have read one or two accounts of the very thing, however it's a different matter entirely to— And isn't it true, Ser Orlov, that mages occasionally ingest lyrium? Have you even seen a mage suffer from similar troubles afterward?
[He nods; lying about things she can verify elsewhere won't help anything, after all.]
Mages ingest it as a liquid mixture, as part of their Harrowing ritual in the Circles. They can use it to enter the Fade while conscious. I assume because their nature connects them to the Fade in a different way from nonmages. A smaller amount can help them cast especially difficult spells. But they take it in a different way than Templars do, and nothing like as frequently, at least in the South. I heard rumors that Magisters eventually face a similar addiction, with occasional mutations, from prolonged use, but someone actually from Tevinter could probably better tell you.
[So maybe small quantities are best, if she's set on her course of action? Though the mention of the "study's other participants" clearly unnerves him.]
While emphasizing that I cannot fully recommend you do either, taking it as mages do will mean a less concentrated dose and, perhaps, a longer time before addiction is a worry. The way that Templars are dosed, addiction takes hold rapidly.
[By design, he can't help but think now.]
I am also far from an expert but ... I should be concerned, with Rifters, about severing a connection to the Fade accidentally or more severely than you intend, without training. Speaking of the nature of Rifters.
[She sounds genuine; as if he has not just suggested the somewhat horrific possibility that a Rifter might somehow be brutally willed from whatever force connects them to the Fade, summoning forth gruesome images of imagined repercussions.]
I will make a point of adding that into the waiver. In the mean time, is there a particular kind of somewhat less strenuous version of a Templar's training that might be done in preparation do you think? Perhaps you might pen a small informative pamphlet on the practice for me? I promise I would follow it quite faithfully. I am excellent at attending to instructional guides.
[The amount which he does not care about science in the abstract compared with human lives truly has come into focus for him during this conversation. Still, as she's clearly not to be deterred, he'd rather her have more accurate information than less.]
I can write out notes on what I know, but Templars are addicted immediately and forcefully by design. I am doubtful their methods will serve as a useful template, and I do not have the training to tell you with any certainty about the effect of lesser dosages. I can, however, list the early symptoms of dependency, if that would be useful to you. Things to watch for.
That would be most helpful as the study is likely to require some repetition in order to assure that the record is reasonably complete. I would be thoroughly grateful. What a fine thought, thank you!
[Oh Ser Orlov, how clever and handsome you are, and what would she ever do without your assistance, and so on and so forth.
—Nevermind that it is, in fact, a fine idea. Or at the very least may purchase he some leeway with those lurking about the margins of the whole endeavor.]
Alright. I'll get you some notes promptly. [He suspects he may have some additional documentation to do, before or after signing whatever affidavit she's putting in front of him.]
I admit to not knowing the most about it, but there were rumors that red lyrium was not only a corrupting influence, but also more highly addictive to the Templars using it then even regular lyrium.
[Here, the mercenary nature of her praise is somewhat betrayed as this time when the spark of her curiosity lights in the eye there is a particular unmistakably brightness by which precious iterations may have somewhat paled in comparison. Her attention pivots fully to him even as they continue up the stairs.]
Obviously a thoroughly impossible thing to test, but that is fascinating. I wonder whether it was designed to be so, or if it's merely a matter of happenstance. It would make some sense, would it not? If the Venatori were not simply harvesting naturally occurring corrupted lyrium and were instead somehow causing its corruption in order to maintain their supply.
It could be both; the lyrium corruption happened independently and the Venatori capitalized on it once they knew of it. But either way... lyrium was already used as a means of control. It does not seem such a leap, for the Venatori to make it crueler.
It doesn't, does it? [This is, presumably, the point where a less ruthlessly ambitious young lady might demur.]
I am of course reminded of the Gates, which are also in some form Blighted. And obviously we are aware that a particular dark ritual is used to create them. Perhaps the same is true for red lyrium. Perhaps if the Venatori did not create it, the corrupted lyrium is an echo of some similar ritual performed long ago by other peoples. We know, for example, that Corypheus was thought to be long dead.
Oh! [She has been speaking very quickly, but here interrupts herself with such abruptness that she actually draws to a halt. They stop on the stairs. Wysteria turns abruptly to face him. She is all bright enthusiasm.] But that would be very happy news if it were true!
[Her laugh is a bright, ringing sound there in the stairwell.]
Why because if that were true, then it's possible whatever method we discover to close the Gates might also be adapted to cleansing the corrupted lyrium.
I suppose that could theoretically follow. Though I will point out that Thedosians have not had much success in curing the Blight anywhere else it's found in many generations.
[He is too polite to let his expression convey the full level of sure, okay this observation makes him feel.
On the other hand, he's not in the Research division. Who knows what they get up to?]
I suppose it will be useful to know that if we succeed in one area, we may have an immediate advantage in the other, that's true. But I suppose I have digressed from your original questions.
[Not that she seems to mind the diversion. Given this encouragement however, she pivots back and resumes climbing the stairs.]
Where were we? —Oh yes. These symptoms of overdose. How best would you describe them? Obviously if you would prefer to write them down, that would also be acceptable.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
action;
Worst, and most.terrifying of all:]
Ser Orlov! I've been looking for you.
congratulations on getting his official glasses debut
Madame de de Foncé, [by way of greeting, along with a small nod.] How can I be of assistance?
[It likely says more about him than her that he assumes there's some task, rather than a social motive, behind anyone looking for him with any enthusiasm.]
🏆
In any case, he's not incorrect. She has hardly closed the distance before launching her assault.]
How good of you to ask! As it happens, there is a little thing I should like your opinion on. You may remember the conversation we had some time ago as to the dosage and effects of lyrium. You see, I have plans to advance my research of that very thing this summer, and I wondered whether you might be willing to act as a sort of consultant. Ser Barrow has been very obliging as to the administration of the dose, but was rather nonspecific as to the frequency and measure. I suspect it has to do with the duration for which he's been taking the stuff, and would like a second opinion as to what I should be mindful of before I go about testing it on myself.
[Deep breath. But no, she isn't finished yet.]
I have a number of questions I would like to ask, and an affidavit I would have you put your signature to if possible. In order to placate certain parties so that I've done my due diligence and don't require the oversight of half the infirmary, you see.
no subject
I will answer you what questions I can. I cannot promise to sign the affidavit until I've read it, but I will do what I'm able to help. I only ... are you quite sure that experimentation on yourself is the only way to proceed?
no subject
But very good. I should be most happy and grateful for your assistance! Here, we may go to the old Felandaris office directly. I will ask my questions on the way, and you may review and sign the affidavit when we get there. I've written it down already.
[Here, he must take her arm and go with her back up the stairs, suggests the thrust of her elbow in Vanya's direction. Obviously, he is far too gentlemanly to refuse such an offering.]
no subject
As you are a unique case, is it truly so pressing to know how lyrium will affect you? I mean to say, will you learn anything more applicable beyond your particular situation?
[He's aware it's a weak gambit, but he does feel obligated to make it all the same.]
no subject
It's fine. This gives her the opportunity to steer him round on the stairwell and begin leading him in the direction she would prefer.]
As a matter of fact, it does. As the only Rifter on our company who no longer has an anchor, it would seem critical to determine whether lyrium has the same affects on me as a Rifter, or like a native of Thedas. It might tell us a great deal about the use of lyrium. More importantly still, imagine what we might reveal regarding the nature of Rifters! This is an important—no, vital! Point of evidence in the work I'm pursuing, Mister Orlov.
no subject
I suppose, having gone through the process of discontinuing its use recently, I wish to spare you its effects. But perhaps I don't understand the nature of your research, as a Forces member.
[He is the first to admit he doesn't know much about science, native or rifter.]
no subject
These effects. Perhaps you might kindly describe them, so that I may include a note about them in the precautions I supply to the study's other participants. Obviously I have read one or two accounts of the very thing, however it's a different matter entirely to— And isn't it true, Ser Orlov, that mages occasionally ingest lyrium? Have you even seen a mage suffer from similar troubles afterward?
no subject
Mages ingest it as a liquid mixture, as part of their Harrowing ritual in the Circles. They can use it to enter the Fade while conscious. I assume because their nature connects them to the Fade in a different way from nonmages. A smaller amount can help them cast especially difficult spells. But they take it in a different way than Templars do, and nothing like as frequently, at least in the South. I heard rumors that Magisters eventually face a similar addiction, with occasional mutations, from prolonged use, but someone actually from Tevinter could probably better tell you.
[So maybe small quantities are best, if she's set on her course of action? Though the mention of the "study's other participants" clearly unnerves him.]
no subject
So you might suggest I begin my studies with ingesting lyrium rather than dosing it directly under the flesh?
no subject
[By design, he can't help but think now.]
I am also far from an expert but ... I should be concerned, with Rifters, about severing a connection to the Fade accidentally or more severely than you intend, without training. Speaking of the nature of Rifters.
no subject
[She sounds genuine; as if he has not just suggested the somewhat horrific possibility that a Rifter might somehow be brutally willed from whatever force connects them to the Fade, summoning forth gruesome images of imagined repercussions.]
I will make a point of adding that into the waiver. In the mean time, is there a particular kind of somewhat less strenuous version of a Templar's training that might be done in preparation do you think? Perhaps you might pen a small informative pamphlet on the practice for me? I promise I would follow it quite faithfully. I am excellent at attending to instructional guides.
no subject
I can write out notes on what I know, but Templars are addicted immediately and forcefully by design. I am doubtful their methods will serve as a useful template, and I do not have the training to tell you with any certainty about the effect of lesser dosages. I can, however, list the early symptoms of dependency, if that would be useful to you. Things to watch for.
no subject
[Oh Ser Orlov, how clever and handsome you are, and what would she ever do without your assistance, and so on and so forth.
—Nevermind that it is, in fact, a fine idea. Or at the very least may purchase he some leeway with those lurking about the margins of the whole endeavor.]
no subject
I admit to not knowing the most about it, but there were rumors that red lyrium was not only a corrupting influence, but also more highly addictive to the Templars using it then even regular lyrium.
[With, yet again, a note of caution.]
no subject
Obviously a thoroughly impossible thing to test, but that is fascinating. I wonder whether it was designed to be so, or if it's merely a matter of happenstance. It would make some sense, would it not? If the Venatori were not simply harvesting naturally occurring corrupted lyrium and were instead somehow causing its corruption in order to maintain their supply.
no subject
[Quietly.]
no subject
I am of course reminded of the Gates, which are also in some form Blighted. And obviously we are aware that a particular dark ritual is used to create them. Perhaps the same is true for red lyrium. Perhaps if the Venatori did not create it, the corrupted lyrium is an echo of some similar ritual performed long ago by other peoples. We know, for example, that Corypheus was thought to be long dead.
Oh! [She has been speaking very quickly, but here interrupts herself with such abruptness that she actually draws to a halt. They stop on the stairs. Wysteria turns abruptly to face him. She is all bright enthusiasm.] But that would be very happy news if it were true!
no subject
...in what sense do you mean?
no subject
Why because if that were true, then it's possible whatever method we discover to close the Gates might also be adapted to cleansing the corrupted lyrium.
[Obviously.]
no subject
I suppose that could theoretically follow. Though I will point out that Thedosians have not had much success in curing the Blight anywhere else it's found in many generations.
[In case she forgot.]
no subject
[And obviously they will close the Gates. That's clearly no question, nevermind that the exact technique presently eludes them.]
no subject
On the other hand, he's not in the Research division. Who knows what they get up to?]
I suppose it will be useful to know that if we succeed in one area, we may have an immediate advantage in the other, that's true. But I suppose I have digressed from your original questions.
no subject
[Not that she seems to mind the diversion. Given this encouragement however, she pivots back and resumes climbing the stairs.]
Where were we? —Oh yes. These symptoms of overdose. How best would you describe them? Obviously if you would prefer to write them down, that would also be acceptable.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
places bow (unless there's anything else you need from him retroactively)