He whirls so fast he staggers with it, jolting back a step, reflexive as a spooked horse. The little gasp that comes from him sounds as though he's been struck; his eyes have gone very wide. He has the Long Memory raised at once, as though that will protect him.
He didn't— he— how can she be here? Is it really her, or only some trick of the place? Every detail is precise and convincing; he could not have invented the glossy sheen of her skin, which now matches his own brittle hands. In this moment of ringing shock, he feels as cold and empty as a porcelain doll.
If she wants fear, she will find it in his face, in this breathless moment before he can control his expression. Even as he steadies out, loosens his panicked grip on his weapon, it's clear in every line of him. His tone is meant to come level and guarded, but it doesn't, really. His voice nearly breaks on the word. ]
no subject
He whirls so fast he staggers with it, jolting back a step, reflexive as a spooked horse. The little gasp that comes from him sounds as though he's been struck; his eyes have gone very wide. He has the Long Memory raised at once, as though that will protect him.
He didn't— he— how can she be here? Is it really her, or only some trick of the place? Every detail is precise and convincing; he could not have invented the glossy sheen of her skin, which now matches his own brittle hands. In this moment of ringing shock, he feels as cold and empty as a porcelain doll.
If she wants fear, she will find it in his face, in this breathless moment before he can control his expression. Even as he steadies out, loosens his panicked grip on his weapon, it's clear in every line of him. His tone is meant to come level and guarded, but it doesn't, really. His voice nearly breaks on the word. ]
Salem.