Another Arm to the Amputee Pile

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?

The multi-segmented thing slowly pulled itself forwards on its numerous limbs. Slick skinless frame producing a wretched squelch as it hefted itself into position. That long skeletal neck bobbing slightly as it turned to look to the medic intently. Those lidless eyes slick with an involuntary mania. "Y-Yess! Monthsss...It was a long time ago...I was stuck. Stuck with othersss...Hsss...But I got out! I can...move places." It explained in that warbling phlegm-choked tone. "I...I heard there wasss...Sssomeone here! Someone that could help!" Only then did it actually pay attention to the details of the other. Their shape, their arrangement, their physiology. "Hsss...Did IT get you too? You still have...Hsssk...Ssskin! And a face!"

Trying to not get their clothes too dirtied, they stand back up when they see it moving again. Taking slow steps to keep pace with its speed. One gloved hand out of their six (or, eight, but they were using two to walk) twitched, even as they refrained from getting a closer look for now.

I don't recall any encounters I may have had, no. I look as how I'm supposed to.

Yeah, right.

Months would give any exposed flesh ample time to fester... it's odd that you're still standing, but...

I can give what help I can.

They were already planning it out in their head. As the both of them walk, a person- patient- that seemed to be hiding behind the nearest cot fled when they approached. What an odd little guy; seemed to be completely wrapped in bandages, say for a few select spots. Probably got spooked by its, uh... looks. The Surgeon seemed to pay no mind.

And don't worry, I am quite familiar with my job. Be it if you'd like to keep those limbs, or skip straight to amputation...

That word seemed to strike them like a cold bucket of water. "Amputation?!" It hissed. Neck craning up to stare at the other with that manic intensity. "N-no! I need...Hsss...I need all my limbs! All my parts!" It insisted pleadingly. The unraveled turned to face the Medic entirely after the statement. "I mean... I mean..." Its head craned to look down at itself. Muttering under its breath as it counted. "...S...Seven arms is too many. People only have two! And they have legs!" It hissed out desperately. "I sss...Sssuppossee you could take a few.." their tone was one of reservation and fruitless hope. "...Ooohhh...I'm hopeless, Doc. Aren't I?"

Considering you're still lucid, I assume that there's some hope to you. 'A few' is a vague term. Three, four, maybe five at a maximum...?

Of course, there's still the whole 'where is your skin' matter, but amputation would get rid of some of that exposed flesh, right? Technically speaking. Less surface area, less to worry for.

They reach for their tools, set down at a little table nearby momentarily. Three items they've grown quite fond of. The anesthesia they've never thought to consider where it came from used plenty of times, plenty of subjects. The saw that they had to sharpen often. The scalpel that, too, served its purpose. Of course, sometimes they do have to get replacements, but they consider them all one.

They grab the syringe first.

Those hollow eyes stared silently as the Medic acquired their tools. Long bony talons uncharacteristically scraping together with a nervous anticipation. "J...Jussst leave me sssome armsss, alright?" The thing hissed uncertainly. "I ssstill need to...move around." They insisted. An audible gulp resonating through that long fanged maw that ran along their underside. Their gaze averted to the side...Soon returning to the medic uncertainly. "Are you...Hsss...Sick too?" It questioned. Only now actually taking in their details. "With...What's happening? Did you see it too..?"

Mm.

Noted. Perhaps three would be fine, then. They glance back from their tools as they processed their questioning.

See... what, exactly?

They would've put it under and started their work by now, but, truth be told, they were curious. Curious in a way they haven't been in a bit. Usually, it's curiosity towards the physical, not particularly the mental. Now, they were finally taking a moment to wonder if they've buried themself into their work too much and ended up missing something. If it means anything, they feel, at least, somewhat decent...

"There'ssss...Sssomething going on!" The skinless thing exclaimed. "I don't know...Hsss...Wh-what it is...But it doesss weird thingsss to people!" It looked aside, as if struggling to recover their memories and thoughts. "I sssaw...A man turn inssside out! And I ssaw a lady turn into a lamp...A very, very, very angry lamp!" The skinless thing insisted. "...It...It didn't get me though!" It boasted, almost sounding proud despite its mutilated state. "The..dark thing did thisss...Hsss." It slowly looked to the medic once more. "You...Look like it got you. Too many armsss..."

The Surgeon was. Kinda giving a judging look now. It sounded like simple rambling to them. Delirium. Would make sense... well. Most of it, at least.

If anything, I've been improved. I don't think it was from whatever you're talking about, though.

It was odd having to remind themself that they definitely had an... unusual amount of limbs. It felt so natural after all this time. Could barely remember the time when they didn't have so many hands at their disposal. Sometimes, they doubted if that time even existed at all. The line between two and six was blurred. Heavily blurred.

...What unpleasant thoughts.

We should be getting on with your procedure, yes? There's no reason to be wasting time.

"Oh...Yess...I sssuposssee you're right.." Hesitantly, the creature rested its head on whatever area it had been assigned. Lidless eyes nervously darting around the Tent's confines as it tapped its curved claws together with a silent anticipation. "Hss..." They subconsciously hissed out. Awaiting whatever pinch, stab, or other agonizing sensation might've began the "Surgery" they had been promised.

They contemplate for a moment whether their exposed flesh would get irritated by their gloves. More than it would by their skin, at least. A pair of rough hands, surprisingly gentle, take ahold of one of its limbs and raise it slightly from their cot.

Apologies if this stings a bit- it'll only last so long.

They orientated the tip of the syringe, making sure to get it just right, before. Poke. The amount of... change with this subject, how different it was, the potential loose ends or factors they hadn't considered, made this risky... though they were attempting to take it in stride. They had a job to do, after all. Just as quickly as it came, the injection finished itself up.

For once the lack of autonomy was pleasant. They never really "Slept" so being rendered chemically unconscious was an unexpected pleasure. It shuddered for a minute...Thrashed for a second...And then went painfully still. All Three sets of lungs breathing in a steady rhythm. Vertical fanged maw letting out a constant "Snore" that sounded more like the bellow of some monstrous crocodile.

#saw syringe & scalpel #one armed limp #ok!!! :3

It was second nature to them. The brief body exam. Three arms, the fabric texture of the bandaging. Flew by like it was nothing. Quite interesting, really. The severed limbs. They're sure they could glean some use out of these.

As the Surgeon was scrutinizing the limbs they took, one of their patients get the courage to approach the sleeping... beast, supposedly. That's what they think of it, at least. The single-legged patient (of course it's Crutches, yeah) quietly drummed their fingers on the edge of bedding. Just watching. Didn't have to guts to reach out and touch, even if they didn't look as scary as they did. And even if their doctor wasn't keeping an eye on them. If.

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?

The multi-segmented thing slowly pulled itself forwards on its numerous limbs. Slick skinless frame producing a wretched squelch as it hefted itself into position. That long skeletal neck bobbing slightly as it turned to look to the medic intently. Those lidless eyes slick with an involuntary mania. "Y-Yess! Monthsss...It was a long time ago...I was stuck. Stuck with othersss...Hsss...But I got out! I can...move places." It explained in that warbling phlegm-choked tone. "I...I heard there wasss...Sssomeone here! Someone that could help!" Only then did it actually pay attention to the details of the other. Their shape, their arrangement, their physiology. "Hsss...Did IT get you too? You still have...Hsssk...Ssskin! And a face!"

Trying to not get their clothes too dirtied, they stand back up when they see it moving again. Taking slow steps to keep pace with its speed. One gloved hand out of their six (or, eight, but they were using two to walk) twitched, even as they refrained from getting a closer look for now.

I don't recall any encounters I may have had, no. I look as how I'm supposed to.

Yeah, right.

Months would give any exposed flesh ample time to fester... it's odd that you're still standing, but...

I can give what help I can.

They were already planning it out in their head. As the both of them walk, a person- patient- that seemed to be hiding behind the nearest cot fled when they approached. What an odd little guy; seemed to be completely wrapped in bandages, say for a few select spots. Probably got spooked by its, uh... looks. The Surgeon seemed to pay no mind.

And don't worry, I am quite familiar with my job. Be it if you'd like to keep those limbs, or skip straight to amputation...

That word seemed to strike them like a cold bucket of water. "Amputation?!" It hissed. Neck craning up to stare at the other with that manic intensity. "N-no! I need...Hsss...I need all my limbs! All my parts!" It insisted pleadingly. The unraveled turned to face the Medic entirely after the statement. "I mean... I mean..." Its head craned to look down at itself. Muttering under its breath as it counted. "...S...Seven arms is too many. People only have two! And they have legs!" It hissed out desperately. "I sss...Sssuppossee you could take a few.." their tone was one of reservation and fruitless hope. "...Ooohhh...I'm hopeless, Doc. Aren't I?"

Considering you're still lucid, I assume that there's some hope to you. 'A few' is a vague term. Three, four, maybe five at a maximum...?

Of course, there's still the whole 'where is your skin' matter, but amputation would get rid of some of that exposed flesh, right? Technically speaking. Less surface area, less to worry for.

They reach for their tools, set down at a little table nearby momentarily. Three items they've grown quite fond of. The anesthesia they've never thought to consider where it came from used plenty of times, plenty of subjects. The saw that they had to sharpen often. The scalpel that, too, served its purpose. Of course, sometimes they do have to get replacements, but they consider them all one.

They grab the syringe first.

Those hollow eyes stared silently as the Medic acquired their tools. Long bony talons uncharacteristically scraping together with a nervous anticipation. "J...Jussst leave me sssome armsss, alright?" The thing hissed uncertainly. "I ssstill need to...move around." They insisted. An audible gulp resonating through that long fanged maw that ran along their underside. Their gaze averted to the side...Soon returning to the medic uncertainly. "Are you...Hsss...Sick too?" It questioned. Only now actually taking in their details. "With...What's happening? Did you see it too..?"

Mm.

Noted. Perhaps three would be fine, then. They glance back from their tools as they processed their questioning.

See... what, exactly?

They would've put it under and started their work by now, but, truth be told, they were curious. Curious in a way they haven't been in a bit. Usually, it's curiosity towards the physical, not particularly the mental. Now, they were finally taking a moment to wonder if they've buried themself into their work too much and ended up missing something. If it means anything, they feel, at least, somewhat decent...

"There'ssss...Sssomething going on!" The skinless thing exclaimed. "I don't know...Hsss...Wh-what it is...But it doesss weird thingsss to people!" It looked aside, as if struggling to recover their memories and thoughts. "I sssaw...A man turn inssside out! And I ssaw a lady turn into a lamp...A very, very, very angry lamp!" The skinless thing insisted. "...It...It didn't get me though!" It boasted, almost sounding proud despite its mutilated state. "The..dark thing did thisss...Hsss." It slowly looked to the medic once more. "You...Look like it got you. Too many armsss..."

The Surgeon was. Kinda giving a judging look now. It sounded like simple rambling to them. Delirium. Would make sense... well. Most of it, at least.

If anything, I've been improved. I don't think it was from whatever you're talking about, though.

It was odd having to remind themself that they definitely had an... unusual amount of limbs. It felt so natural after all this time. Could barely remember the time when they didn't have so many hands at their disposal. Sometimes, they doubted if that time even existed at all. The line between two and six was blurred. Heavily blurred.

...What unpleasant thoughts.

We should be getting on with your procedure, yes? There's no reason to be wasting time.

"Oh...Yess...I sssuposssee you're right.." Hesitantly, the creature rested its head on whatever area it had been assigned. Lidless eyes nervously darting around the Tent's confines as it tapped its curved claws together with a silent anticipation. "Hss..." They subconsciously hissed out. Awaiting whatever pinch, stab, or other agonizing sensation might've began the "Surgery" they had been promised.

#saw syringe & scalpel #would you like to timeskip to after the surgery btw? because like. the lack of agency and whatever y'know

They contemplate for a moment whether their exposed flesh would get irritated by their gloves. More than it would by their skin, at least. A pair of rough hands, surprisingly gentle, take ahold of one of its limbs and raise it slightly from their cot.

Apologies if this stings a bit- it'll only last so long.

They orientated the tip of the syringe, making sure to get it just right, before. Poke. The amount of... change with this subject, how different it was, the potential loose ends or factors they hadn't considered, made this risky... though they were attempting to take it in stride. They had a job to do, after all. Just as quickly as it came, the injection finished itself up.

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?

The multi-segmented thing slowly pulled itself forwards on its numerous limbs. Slick skinless frame producing a wretched squelch as it hefted itself into position. That long skeletal neck bobbing slightly as it turned to look to the medic intently. Those lidless eyes slick with an involuntary mania. "Y-Yess! Monthsss...It was a long time ago...I was stuck. Stuck with othersss...Hsss...But I got out! I can...move places." It explained in that warbling phlegm-choked tone. "I...I heard there wasss...Sssomeone here! Someone that could help!" Only then did it actually pay attention to the details of the other. Their shape, their arrangement, their physiology. "Hsss...Did IT get you too? You still have...Hsssk...Ssskin! And a face!"

Trying to not get their clothes too dirtied, they stand back up when they see it moving again. Taking slow steps to keep pace with its speed. One gloved hand out of their six (or, eight, but they were using two to walk) twitched, even as they refrained from getting a closer look for now.

I don't recall any encounters I may have had, no. I look as how I'm supposed to.

Yeah, right.

Months would give any exposed flesh ample time to fester... it's odd that you're still standing, but...

I can give what help I can.

They were already planning it out in their head. As the both of them walk, a person- patient- that seemed to be hiding behind the nearest cot fled when they approached. What an odd little guy; seemed to be completely wrapped in bandages, say for a few select spots. Probably got spooked by its, uh... looks. The Surgeon seemed to pay no mind.

And don't worry, I am quite familiar with my job. Be it if you'd like to keep those limbs, or skip straight to amputation...

That word seemed to strike them like a cold bucket of water. "Amputation?!" It hissed. Neck craning up to stare at the other with that manic intensity. "N-no! I need...Hsss...I need all my limbs! All my parts!" It insisted pleadingly. The unraveled turned to face the Medic entirely after the statement. "I mean... I mean..." Its head craned to look down at itself. Muttering under its breath as it counted. "...S...Seven arms is too many. People only have two! And they have legs!" It hissed out desperately. "I sss...Sssuppossee you could take a few.." their tone was one of reservation and fruitless hope. "...Ooohhh...I'm hopeless, Doc. Aren't I?"

Considering you're still lucid, I assume that there's some hope to you. 'A few' is a vague term. Three, four, maybe five at a maximum...?

Of course, there's still the whole 'where is your skin' matter, but amputation would get rid of some of that exposed flesh, right? Technically speaking. Less surface area, less to worry for.

They reach for their tools, set down at a little table nearby momentarily. Three items they've grown quite fond of. The anesthesia they've never thought to consider where it came from used plenty of times, plenty of subjects. The saw that they had to sharpen often. The scalpel that, too, served its purpose. Of course, sometimes they do have to get replacements, but they consider them all one.

They grab the syringe first.

Those hollow eyes stared silently as the Medic acquired their tools. Long bony talons uncharacteristically scraping together with a nervous anticipation. "J...Jussst leave me sssome armsss, alright?" The thing hissed uncertainly. "I ssstill need to...move around." They insisted. An audible gulp resonating through that long fanged maw that ran along their underside. Their gaze averted to the side...Soon returning to the medic uncertainly. "Are you...Hsss...Sick too?" It questioned. Only now actually taking in their details. "With...What's happening? Did you see it too..?"

Mm.

Noted. Perhaps three would be fine, then. They glance back from their tools as they processed their questioning.

See... what, exactly?

They would've put it under and started their work by now, but, truth be told, they were curious. Curious in a way they haven't been in a bit. Usually, it's curiosity towards the physical, not particularly the mental. Now, they were finally taking a moment to wonder if they've buried themself into their work too much and ended up missing something. If it means anything, they feel, at least, somewhat decent...

"There'ssss...Sssomething going on!" The skinless thing exclaimed. "I don't know...Hsss...Wh-what it is...But it doesss weird thingsss to people!" It looked aside, as if struggling to recover their memories and thoughts. "I sssaw...A man turn inssside out! And I ssaw a lady turn into a lamp...A very, very, very angry lamp!" The skinless thing insisted. "...It...It didn't get me though!" It boasted, almost sounding proud despite its mutilated state. "The..dark thing did thisss...Hsss." It slowly looked to the medic once more. "You...Look like it got you. Too many armsss..."

The Surgeon was. Kinda giving a judging look now. It sounded like simple rambling to them. Delirium. Would make sense... well. Most of it, at least.

If anything, I've been improved. I don't think it was from whatever you're talking about, though.

It was odd having to remind themself that they definitely had an... unusual amount of limbs. It felt so natural after all this time. Could barely remember the time when they didn't have so many hands at their disposal. Sometimes, they doubted if that time even existed at all. The line between two and six was blurred. Heavily blurred.

...What unpleasant thoughts.

We should be getting on with your procedure, yes? There's no reason to be wasting time.

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?

The multi-segmented thing slowly pulled itself forwards on its numerous limbs. Slick skinless frame producing a wretched squelch as it hefted itself into position. That long skeletal neck bobbing slightly as it turned to look to the medic intently. Those lidless eyes slick with an involuntary mania. "Y-Yess! Monthsss...It was a long time ago...I was stuck. Stuck with othersss...Hsss...But I got out! I can...move places." It explained in that warbling phlegm-choked tone. "I...I heard there wasss...Sssomeone here! Someone that could help!" Only then did it actually pay attention to the details of the other. Their shape, their arrangement, their physiology. "Hsss...Did IT get you too? You still have...Hsssk...Ssskin! And a face!"

Trying to not get their clothes too dirtied, they stand back up when they see it moving again. Taking slow steps to keep pace with its speed. One gloved hand out of their six (or, eight, but they were using two to walk) twitched, even as they refrained from getting a closer look for now.

I don't recall any encounters I may have had, no. I look as how I'm supposed to.

Yeah, right.

Months would give any exposed flesh ample time to fester... it's odd that you're still standing, but...

I can give what help I can.

They were already planning it out in their head. As the both of them walk, a person- patient- that seemed to be hiding behind the nearest cot fled when they approached. What an odd little guy; seemed to be completely wrapped in bandages, say for a few select spots. Probably got spooked by its, uh... looks. The Surgeon seemed to pay no mind.

And don't worry, I am quite familiar with my job. Be it if you'd like to keep those limbs, or skip straight to amputation...

That word seemed to strike them like a cold bucket of water. "Amputation?!" It hissed. Neck craning up to stare at the other with that manic intensity. "N-no! I need...Hsss...I need all my limbs! All my parts!" It insisted pleadingly. The unraveled turned to face the Medic entirely after the statement. "I mean... I mean..." Its head craned to look down at itself. Muttering under its breath as it counted. "...S...Seven arms is too many. People only have two! And they have legs!" It hissed out desperately. "I sss...Sssuppossee you could take a few.." their tone was one of reservation and fruitless hope. "...Ooohhh...I'm hopeless, Doc. Aren't I?"

Considering you're still lucid, I assume that there's some hope to you. 'A few' is a vague term. Three, four, maybe five at a maximum...?

Of course, there's still the whole 'where is your skin' matter, but amputation would get rid of some of that exposed flesh, right? Technically speaking. Less surface area, less to worry for.

They reach for their tools, set down at a little table nearby momentarily. Three items they've grown quite fond of. The anesthesia they've never thought to consider where it came from used plenty of times, plenty of subjects. The saw that they had to sharpen often. The scalpel that, too, served its purpose. Of course, sometimes they do have to get replacements, but they consider them all one.

They grab the syringe first.

Those hollow eyes stared silently as the Medic acquired their tools. Long bony talons uncharacteristically scraping together with a nervous anticipation. "J...Jussst leave me sssome armsss, alright?" The thing hissed uncertainly. "I ssstill need to...move around." They insisted. An audible gulp resonating through that long fanged maw that ran along their underside. Their gaze averted to the side...Soon returning to the medic uncertainly. "Are you...Hsss...Sick too?" It questioned. Only now actually taking in their details. "With...What's happening? Did you see it too..?"

Mm.

Noted. Perhaps three would be fine, then. They glance back from their tools as they processed their questioning.

See... what, exactly?

They would've put it under and started their work by now, but, truth be told, they were curious. Curious in a way they haven't been in a bit. Usually, it's curiosity towards the physical, not particularly the mental. Now, they were finally taking a moment to wonder if they've buried themself into their work too much and ended up missing something. If it means anything, they feel, at least, somewhat decent...

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?

The multi-segmented thing slowly pulled itself forwards on its numerous limbs. Slick skinless frame producing a wretched squelch as it hefted itself into position. That long skeletal neck bobbing slightly as it turned to look to the medic intently. Those lidless eyes slick with an involuntary mania. "Y-Yess! Monthsss...It was a long time ago...I was stuck. Stuck with othersss...Hsss...But I got out! I can...move places." It explained in that warbling phlegm-choked tone. "I...I heard there wasss...Sssomeone here! Someone that could help!" Only then did it actually pay attention to the details of the other. Their shape, their arrangement, their physiology. "Hsss...Did IT get you too? You still have...Hsssk...Ssskin! And a face!"

Trying to not get their clothes too dirtied, they stand back up when they see it moving again. Taking slow steps to keep pace with its speed. One gloved hand out of their six (or, eight, but they were using two to walk) twitched, even as they refrained from getting a closer look for now.

I don't recall any encounters I may have had, no. I look as how I'm supposed to.

Yeah, right.

Months would give any exposed flesh ample time to fester... it's odd that you're still standing, but...

I can give what help I can.

They were already planning it out in their head. As the both of them walk, a person- patient- that seemed to be hiding behind the nearest cot fled when they approached. What an odd little guy; seemed to be completely wrapped in bandages, say for a few select spots. Probably got spooked by its, uh... looks. The Surgeon seemed to pay no mind.

And don't worry, I am quite familiar with my job. Be it if you'd like to keep those limbs, or skip straight to amputation...

That word seemed to strike them like a cold bucket of water. "Amputation?!" It hissed. Neck craning up to stare at the other with that manic intensity. "N-no! I need...Hsss...I need all my limbs! All my parts!" It insisted pleadingly. The unraveled turned to face the Medic entirely after the statement. "I mean... I mean..." Its head craned to look down at itself. Muttering under its breath as it counted. "...S...Seven arms is too many. People only have two! And they have legs!" It hissed out desperately. "I sss...Sssuppossee you could take a few.." their tone was one of reservation and fruitless hope. "...Ooohhh...I'm hopeless, Doc. Aren't I?"

Considering you're still lucid, I assume that there's some hope to you. 'A few' is a vague term. Three, four, maybe five at a maximum...?

Of course, there's still the whole 'where is your skin' matter, but amputation would get rid of some of that exposed flesh, right? Technically speaking. Less surface area, less to worry for.

They reach for their tools, set down at a little table nearby momentarily. Three items they've grown quite fond of. The anesthesia they've never thought to consider where it came from used plenty of times, plenty of subjects. The saw that they had to sharpen often. The scalpel that, too, served its purpose. Of course, sometimes they do have to get replacements, but they consider them all one.

They grab the syringe first.

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?

The multi-segmented thing slowly pulled itself forwards on its numerous limbs. Slick skinless frame producing a wretched squelch as it hefted itself into position. That long skeletal neck bobbing slightly as it turned to look to the medic intently. Those lidless eyes slick with an involuntary mania. "Y-Yess! Monthsss...It was a long time ago...I was stuck. Stuck with othersss...Hsss...But I got out! I can...move places." It explained in that warbling phlegm-choked tone. "I...I heard there wasss...Sssomeone here! Someone that could help!" Only then did it actually pay attention to the details of the other. Their shape, their arrangement, their physiology. "Hsss...Did IT get you too? You still have...Hsssk...Ssskin! And a face!"

#saw syringe & scalpel #wrapping the bandages

Trying to not get their clothes too dirtied, they stand back up when they see it moving again. Taking slow steps to keep pace with its speed. One gloved hand out of their six (or, eight, but they were using two to walk) twitched, even as they refrained from getting a closer look for now.

I don't recall any encounters I may have had, no. I look as how I'm supposed to.

Yeah, right.

Months would give any exposed flesh ample time to fester... it's odd that you're still standing, but...

I can give what help I can.

They were already planning it out in their head. As the both of them walk, a person- patient- that seemed to be hiding behind the nearest cot fled when they approached. What an odd little guy; seemed to be completely wrapped in bandages, say for a few select spots. Probably got spooked by its, uh... looks. The Surgeon seemed to pay no mind.

And don't worry, I am quite familiar with my job. Be it if you'd like to keep those limbs, or skip straight to amputation...

"Can you...Hsss...fff...Fffix me?" That tone was something between pleading and menacing as that godawful thing slowly began to pull its way into their tent. Far too many limbs. Far too many teeth. Everything seeping like an infected wound. "I...Uhh...H-hssskk...HEARD that you're quite the err...D-doctor! Around thessseee parts..." "And so I thh...Thought I'd see if you could...Hsss..M-make me...Normal?" It vaguely gestured with its many talons. "Y...Y'know! A person! A N-normal...Hssss...Person!"

The Surgeon has already seen a lot in their time on the field, yes. Could expect almost anything. So the strange voice their potential patient carried and the yelps of their already existing patients were nothing to raise alarm for, one would think.

Though, turning around to actually see, they can't help but think, "hm, that's new."

Yet they showed no true fear. Simply scrutiny and a vague kind of confusion. They were taking the subject's oddly casual demeanor as either adrenaline (such an annoying thing to have to consider, really) or a sign not to panic. As well as the way it phrased its sentences having some... implications, to their ears.

I... yes, this seems like quite the predicament.

The Surgeon was quickly already by its side. Didn't touch quite yet. 'Normal' was extremely subjective. And so was 'a person', if they're being honest, but that's besides the point. There was no use in worrying it, though.

I'm not quite sure what...

A squint. Honestly, they're taking this way too calmly for a doctor that just had. This. Walk into their office.

...could've caused this? May you give me the rundown? And if you're in any pain, if you can get yourself to a cot on your own...

With a loud THUD! The centipede-like assemblage of limbs and viscera flopped onto its side. Entire frame visibly deflating as it let out one long drawn out exhale. A great gust of wind resonating from its underside. ...turns out, from the base of its neck to the very underside of its lowermost arm (positioned like a tail) sat a humongous vertical maw. Misaligned and shattered Rib-bones working as fangs & teeth alike. And most pressing...This strange "gap" in their physiology twitched and warped when it spoke. Indicating this was their true "Mouth" in all this. "It...It was a...Hsssk...Thing! I snagged me a few months ago..." They desperately pleaded. "It was...H-huge! All arms, and hands. and feet, and..." They trailed off. Thought seemingly fading before snapping back towards the medic. "It TORE me apart!" It whined. A wet hiss in its tone. "T-torreee...Tore me apart! Put me back together! Changed me! TWISSSTED me!" Its entire body jolted with that last commend. "...Oh god...Ohhh god I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Y-you don't need to know about all that!"

All the Surgeon instantly reacted with was a blink. Have they seen worse? Debatable, though they're inclined to say yes. If anything, they find this interesting. Thing with many limbs, sure, there's plenty of those out there. Being attacked... yes, they can suspend their belief. As they thoroughly proved, the things soldiers could sustain were practically limitless...

Nonsense. The details are important.

Despite the explanation not doing too much for them... no matter. They glance up, making sure there was an available spot for it to lay. There was. Of course there was. They kneel down, trying to gently usher it there. Not sure if they would... carry it otherwise. Preferably. If they have to, y'know...

Let's get you set up while we talk... a few months ago, you say?