[pfsb]

[acrookedpath]

The latest idea that struck Wei Wuxian mid-lunch: if he combined one of the theoretical energy talismans with a paper doll, would that allow him to search the grounds for resentful energy without having to blanket the whole inn with talismans?

It seems like a sound idea! It won't replace the planned night hunt with Lan Zhan -- nor would he want it to -- but if he succeeds, it will be a fun experiment.

First, though: combining a paper doll with a simpler talisman. Which brings us to Wei Wuxian at a table underneath the Observation Window, not an inch left uncovered by his notes, scribbling onto a tiny cutout with a ballpoint pen Bar gave him. (What an invention!) He completes the last character with a flourish and waves his hand over the doll; it springs to its "feet," and, grinning, he directs it toward the empty cup perched precariously on a corner of the table.

Comments

[we_bring_hell]

"Hm," she says. "I usually just have blood sweats and nosebleeds."

"You need not apologize. It was experimental from the beginning. I will just have to find out what the Sixth wants when I return."

[acrookedpath]

He croaks a weak laugh. "Smoke causes far less mess, at least."

Carefully, he straightens up. He looks much too pale, and he's shivering, slightly, as if he caught a chill. But -- as he has always done -- Wei Wuxian smiles.

"And I hope the Sixth does not cause you trouble. I should -- rest. I think."

[we_bring_hell]

"True," she says mildly. "By all means. Thank you for making the attempt."

[acrookedpath]

He inclines his head in a bow, and begins to gather his papers.

"Until we meet again, Ninth."

He's going to haul his notes upstairs, ask a waitrat if they might bring some soup and tea to his door, and huddle under a warm blanket for a few hours. Hopefully that will be enough to shake the sudden cold.

[we_bring_hell]

She frowns after him thoughtfully, but doesn't have a plan of action to help.

Neither does she have one for Camilla the Sixth. Hmm.