“I don’t need a break. I’m okay.”
━━ KARL'S HANDS REST HEAVILY ON ANDER'S SHOULDERS, BEGGING THE MAGE TO LOOK AT HIM ; yet Anders persists his work, swaying on his feet as his magic sputters.
❝ Let me, ❞ Karl says quietly into Anders' ear, stepping beside him.
The fledging healer hovers his palms over Anders', eyes fluttering closed as he strains to channel his own Spirit within. Compassion stirs weakly as Karl's brows knit. The Fade called to his fingers coalesces thinly above the back of Anders' hands, using the mage as a conduit as though he were a breathing staff ; steadying the flow of his magic.
The wound he has labored to heal knits gradually, leaving a puckered scar that would've otherwise been smooth if Anders hadn't pushed himself so hard.
❝ There, ❞ Karl half groans, half sighs, nearly stumbling.
His head vibrates as Compassion recoils like an overstretched band of leather. He breathes deep a breath of mana and reaches again for Anders' shoulder as the injured man eases himself off the table with effusive gratitude.
❝ Now you can rest. Please, ❞ Karl urges, tugging Anders gently, ❝ You are of no use to anyone in your state.❞