[ In the scant few seconds after they bar the doors behind them, Somnus has the opportunity to survey the chamber. The rib-like architecture vaults to the ceiling, making the chamber appear as a cathedral within the catacombs, and shadows dance across the walls as the bonfire crackles with hunger. There is no exit. His attention falls to her as she protests, pale and terrified, then snaps to the doors behind them as they rumble with the impact of an adversary that cares not for its own health. ] Behind me.
[ The doors buckle with the next impact, splinting wood and iron. Somnus' blade remains ready, knuckles white upon the handle of his sword, his focus set. He inhales, then exhales slowly through his nose, and he complies what he knows: long ago, the hall of mirrors had revealed a flaming silhouette of Rinea that taunted her; a month ago, she had pleaded "How small must I make myself to satisfy you?", speaking not to Somnus' then-cursed state himself, but as if he were this young emperor. Therefore her fear is not only the beast that chases them, but the inferno behind them. ]
...I cannot conquer your fears for you, but I shall subdue them. [ His words are even and calm, assured and steely in a way that cuts above the roar of the fire. Somnus takes a few steady steps forward, positioning himself between Rinea and the doors. His free hand goes to his cloak, unclasping the golden fastening that sets it together, and tosses the raiment aside. ]
But tell me this, O Daughter of Rigel. [ Another collision between monster and door causes the barrier to break further. On the next hit, the tip of the lance juts through like wolf teeth against leather. ]
no subject
[ The doors buckle with the next impact, splinting wood and iron. Somnus' blade remains ready, knuckles white upon the handle of his sword, his focus set. He inhales, then exhales slowly through his nose, and he complies what he knows: long ago, the hall of mirrors had revealed a flaming silhouette of Rinea that taunted her; a month ago, she had pleaded "How small must I make myself to satisfy you?", speaking not to Somnus' then-cursed state himself, but as if he were this young emperor. Therefore her fear is not only the beast that chases them, but the inferno behind them. ]
...I cannot conquer your fears for you, but I shall subdue them. [ His words are even and calm, assured and steely in a way that cuts above the roar of the fire. Somnus takes a few steady steps forward, positioning himself between Rinea and the doors. His free hand goes to his cloak, unclasping the golden fastening that sets it together, and tosses the raiment aside. ]
But tell me this, O Daughter of Rigel. [ Another collision between monster and door causes the barrier to break further. On the next hit, the tip of the lance juts through like wolf teeth against leather. ]
Do you wish to show him mercy?