Valentine Canine

JRWI: Prime Defenders OC Blog

[valentine-canine]

Hello!!!! Valentine here!

I’ve been chatting with some online friends and they encouraged me to make this blog!

If you’ve got any questions, want some advice, or just want to chat, my asks are open!! :3

Age: 20

Pronouns: She/Her

(what else goes on intro posts crap… uhhhhh…)

I’m a Psychology major at New Haven University!

Also if you see a canine creature walking around New Haven at night no you don’t 👀

OOC Stuff:

Blog is run by @starlightboomstudios (she/her)

I can’t watch all of UPP or PD yet but I know about it and the stuff that goes on in it. Mostly. Once I stop being broke and catch up I shall be more informed :3

Talking Tag: #val chats

Ask Tag: #val shall answer

OOC Tag: #starlight speaks

[valentine-canine]

Child, worry not, for I am sure all will be fine. Trust in those who trust in you

-E.V.

I do trust them, I’m just getting worried is all-

Caligo sensed something bad happened and Ellane hasn’t ignored my calls before, I don’t know what’s going on I’m just hoping they’re all alive and safe

I trust that they’ll do the right thing and be safe, I’m just not sure how long that’ll take or what’s going to happen to them…

[valentine-canine]

I'm running away from my paperwork responsibilities ehehehhehehehhehe

-📜

Good you deserve a break :)

Enjoy your free time!

[valentine-canine]

Yo I think I saw a fucking demon around campus 👀

Leave him some Cheez-its and you’ll be fine

Probably

Hopefully

[valentine-canine]

// Oorp (out of rp)

don’t respond to this seriously,!!!

MAMA WE’RE GONNA FUCKING DIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEE

~ 🐺

// oorp

I’M GONNA STEAL A CAR AND RUN OVER THE PERFECT VESSEL

[valentine-canine]

👀

👀

(who are you ._.)

[valentine-canine]

Are the toe beans ticklish?

Last time someone tried to tickle me I punched them in the stomach on instinct I’m not letting anyone test if the beans are ticklish or not ._.

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

(they dont do their floppy joke this time) "moom,, pleaase..?" "i don wanna tire you out so bad just to make me happy.."

[valentine-canine]

[She pauses for a second and then nods, she waves one last time and then the beans go away. She still looks and sounds tired though]

Mkay honey, ‘m sorry if I made you upset

[familiarityupp]

"you didnt--.. i jus don' want you tiring yourself out just cause i act like a giddy six year old sometimes ehehe.."

[valentine-canine]

[She’s dozing off a little while she talks, her words slurring a bit]

Yeaaaaah but I really don’t mind it- worst side effect I have is just being really tired, ‘s long as I get a nap afterwards I’m fineee

I like making you happy, I like seeing you act like a kid because you go through waaaaaaaayy too much

I just want you to be happy…

[familiarityupp]

"..." "thanks.." "i want you to be happy too.....?"

[valentine-canine]

[She gives a very tired smile]

yaaaaaaaaaayyyyy :)

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. sadly though i expect ill be going through a lot more before this storm passes.."

[valentine-canine]

noooooooooooooooo :(

‘m gonna make sure when this is all over yer gonna have the best day ever, it’ll be so fun you’ll forget about all the storms bullshit >:T

[She’s resting her head in one arm, holding the phone with the other. She’s got a determined glare on her face before she goes back to fighting off sleep]

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. hope so...." "..mooooooooom.. do you wanna sleeep,,,"

[valentine-canine]

no, ‘m fine, I can- yaaaaaaawnnnnn

I can stay up a bit longer, ‘s fineeeeeee

[Val’s not even opening her eyes at this point she’s about 10 seconds away from going to sleep]

[familiarityupp]

".. night night mom :3"

(they giggle a little, aand hang up the phone- hoping she'll go to sleep now lmao)

[valentine-canine]

[She mumbles a little before they hang up]

night night honey, sleep well, lov-

[The phone call ends before she can finish talking, and she’s asleep now]

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

(they dont do their floppy joke this time) "moom,, pleaase..?" "i don wanna tire you out so bad just to make me happy.."

[valentine-canine]

[She pauses for a second and then nods, she waves one last time and then the beans go away. She still looks and sounds tired though]

Mkay honey, ‘m sorry if I made you upset

[familiarityupp]

"you didnt--.. i jus don' want you tiring yourself out just cause i act like a giddy six year old sometimes ehehe.."

[valentine-canine]

[She’s dozing off a little while she talks, her words slurring a bit]

Yeaaaaah but I really don’t mind it- worst side effect I have is just being really tired, ‘s long as I get a nap afterwards I’m fineee

I like making you happy, I like seeing you act like a kid because you go through waaaaaaaayy too much

I just want you to be happy…

[familiarityupp]

"..." "thanks.." "i want you to be happy too.....?"

[valentine-canine]

[She gives a very tired smile]

yaaaaaaaaaayyyyy :)

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. sadly though i expect ill be going through a lot more before this storm passes.."

[valentine-canine]

noooooooooooooooo :(

‘m gonna make sure when this is all over yer gonna have the best day ever, it’ll be so fun you’ll forget about all the storms bullshit >:T

[She’s resting her head in one arm, holding the phone with the other. She’s got a determined glare on her face before she goes back to fighting off sleep]

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. hope so...." "..mooooooooom.. do you wanna sleeep,,,"

[valentine-canine]

no, ‘m fine, I can- yaaaaaaawnnnnn

I can stay up a bit longer, ‘s fineeeeeee

[Val’s not even opening her eyes at this point she’s about 10 seconds away from going to sleep]

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

(they dont do their floppy joke this time) "moom,, pleaase..?" "i don wanna tire you out so bad just to make me happy.."

[valentine-canine]

[She pauses for a second and then nods, she waves one last time and then the beans go away. She still looks and sounds tired though]

Mkay honey, ‘m sorry if I made you upset

[familiarityupp]

"you didnt--.. i jus don' want you tiring yourself out just cause i act like a giddy six year old sometimes ehehe.."

[valentine-canine]

[She’s dozing off a little while she talks, her words slurring a bit]

Yeaaaaah but I really don’t mind it- worst side effect I have is just being really tired, ‘s long as I get a nap afterwards I’m fineee

I like making you happy, I like seeing you act like a kid because you go through waaaaaaaayy too much

I just want you to be happy…

[familiarityupp]

"..." "thanks.." "i want you to be happy too.....?"

[valentine-canine]

[She gives a very tired smile]

yaaaaaaaaaayyyyy :)

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. sadly though i expect ill be going through a lot more before this storm passes.."

[valentine-canine]

noooooooooooooooo :(

‘m gonna make sure when this is all over yer gonna have the best day ever, it’ll be so fun you’ll forget about all the storms bullshit >:T

[She’s resting her head in one arm, holding the phone with the other. She’s got a determined glare on her face before she goes back to fighting off sleep]

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

(they dont do their floppy joke this time) "moom,, pleaase..?" "i don wanna tire you out so bad just to make me happy.."

[valentine-canine]

[She pauses for a second and then nods, she waves one last time and then the beans go away. She still looks and sounds tired though]

Mkay honey, ‘m sorry if I made you upset

[familiarityupp]

"you didnt--.. i jus don' want you tiring yourself out just cause i act like a giddy six year old sometimes ehehe.."

[valentine-canine]

[She’s dozing off a little while she talks, her words slurring a bit]

Yeaaaaah but I really don’t mind it- worst side effect I have is just being really tired, ‘s long as I get a nap afterwards I’m fineee

I like making you happy, I like seeing you act like a kid because you go through waaaaaaaayy too much

I just want you to be happy…

[familiarityupp]

"..." "thanks.." "i want you to be happy too.....?"

[valentine-canine]

[She gives a very tired smile]

yaaaaaaaaaayyyyy :)

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

(they dont do their floppy joke this time) "moom,, pleaase..?" "i don wanna tire you out so bad just to make me happy.."

[valentine-canine]

[She pauses for a second and then nods, she waves one last time and then the beans go away. She still looks and sounds tired though]

Mkay honey, ‘m sorry if I made you upset

[familiarityupp]

"you didnt--.. i jus don' want you tiring yourself out just cause i act like a giddy six year old sometimes ehehe.."

[valentine-canine]

[She’s dozing off a little while she talks, her words slurring a bit]

Yeaaaaah but I really don’t mind it- worst side effect I have is just being really tired, ‘s long as I get a nap afterwards I’m fineee

I like making you happy, I like seeing you act like a kid because you go through waaaaaaaayy too much

I just want you to be happy…

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

(they dont do their floppy joke this time) "moom,, pleaase..?" "i don wanna tire you out so bad just to make me happy.."

[valentine-canine]

[She pauses for a second and then nods, she waves one last time and then the beans go away. She still looks and sounds tired though]

Mkay honey, ‘m sorry if I made you upset

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

".. making me happy isnt worth exhausting yourself >:/"

[valentine-canine]

Yes it iiiiiiissssssssssss >:T

[She boops the screen again]

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

"mooomm.. turn off the beans pleaase.." (they say as they groggily sit up to look at her, sleeeeepy doggy)

[valentine-canine]

But you get all silly and smiley when you see the beeeeeeaaaaaaaans

I like seeing you happyyyyyyyy

[She sounds a little loopy now, the exhaustion is really kicking in now. They can see the fur fading back a little but seems like she’s still trying to keep them up]

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)

[familiarityupp]

(they flop back on the bed in that same dazed act that they have become accustomed to doing everytime theyre booped.)

[valentine-canine]

[They can hear Val laughing over the phone again but it gets cut off by a yawn. She looks like she’s fighting to stay awake, blinking a lot but shaking her head a bit to wake herself up. Seems the beans are a liiiittle too much right now, but she’s still keeping them up]

I swear, when- yaaaaaawn- when we meet up I’m gonna boop you and you’re gonna ragdoll or something hehe

[familiarityupp]

Hi honey, you said you needed to call about something, you able to call now? What’s going on?

- @valentine-canine

yeah m sorry i can call now im doing pretty rough-- can you call me please

i cant do it myself

[valentine-canine]

[Incoming Video Call: Mom (Val)]

[The moment Ellane answers the phone Val is scanning the screen to see if they’re ok]

[familiarityupp]

(They look rough again, new smeers of ash on their cheek.. their hair is matted with soot once again.) "uum... hi mom!!"

(they look reaaaallly tired,, like eye bags and all, and their eyes are a striking, oceanic blue)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane honey what happened?

[She looks incredibly worried]

[familiarityupp]

".." "i um.. i did the thing again..?" "not-- not to hurt myself.. this time." "but i did the.. the big power stuff.. and.." (they just ,, gesture at themself in general, obviously referring to their general bodily state rn)

[valentine-canine]

But- you’re ok? Are you in any pain right now?

Why- why did you have to use it what happened?

[Val doesn’t sound angry or disappointed, just scared]

[familiarityupp]

"..i mean- yeah im in pain.." "burns sting :<" "but mostly it just feels like-- yknow when you sleep reaaall rough,, and like you hav yo mouth open in ur sleep so your throat is dryy,, and then like your head hurts when you look at lights and stuff.." "pluus i got a killer migraine,," "it got me again."

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, I know that feeling… that’s awful honey…

… what do you mean it got you again?

[familiarityupp]

".. the entropyne.." "got me again..." "jsut like the kitchen.. i let it get me.."

[valentine-canine]

You- you let it get you? Or were you too scared to defend yourself?

[familiarityupp]

"nno.. i freaked out when it appeared,,,... didnt even try to run.." "aand it got me.." "just like last time-- even made a joke about it at Lucia.."

[valentine-canine]

I- ok honey that’s not letting it get you, that’s a fear response. It’s not your fault that it grabbed you.

You didn’t… you didn’t die again, did you?…

[familiarityupp]

"oh- no.. we teleported into the sky in a giant fire pillar before it could.." "it grabbed me though.." "i hated it-- feeling it on my body--.. being so /helpless/.." ".. i really wanna kill it-- if not just to save town.." "so it can never touch me again."

[valentine-canine]

[She stares and nods as they talk. She slowly looks more and more angry as well, not at Ellane but for them.]

Damn it I wanna tear that thing apart myself…

[She shakes her head a bit and then breaths to calm herself down.]

What matters now is that you’re alive and away from that thing

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." "yeah." (throughout the call, they keep pausing to wipe their hands on the vest theyre in, despite having nothing actually on them) "anyway-... will changed my clothes while i was passed out so i wouldnt overheat,, which was very nice of him.." "i know idont always give you the best impression of how he treats me but.. he really is a good friend :)"

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles a little]

Yeah, he’s a good kid, I’m glad he’s been helping you out so much

[She tilts her head to the side a little]

Is there something on your hands?

[familiarityupp]

"ye-.." "huh.. n-no.. sorry?" "why?" "theres nothing on theere.." (they rub their hands together a little) "hes a great kid... janet raised him well i think x3" "hes honestly the least.. teenage-boy-ish teenage boy ive met.."

[valentine-canine]

You keep wiping your hands, I just wanted to check to see if something’s up, that’s all.

Hehe yeah, she did a good job :)

[familiarityupp]

"..no i dont.. im.." "im not doing anything---" (they breaaaaaath) "definitely..."

[valentine-canine]

[She raises an eyebrow]

[familiarityupp]

"..what.." (theyre still doing it.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val points at the screen, where their hands are]

You’re doing it right now!

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane glances down at their hands) "n-no im not--" "im not doing anything--" (they look sorta freaked out-- not like they dont know what theyre doing-- just that theyre very very embarrsassed about it )

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a little smile]

Ok, look, I don’t know what’s up, but as long as it’s nothing bad it’s fine. I was just confused is all, you’re good.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "i dont wanna talk about it anymore.." (that... implies its something they discussed before) "not after what you said last time.." (yep.)

[valentine-canine]

[She tilts her head a little as she tries to remember. Seeing their discomfort Val just nods.]

Ok honey, we can drop it. As long as it’s not hurting you I don’t mind it.

[familiarityupp]

"please--" (they keep wiping aat their hands) "wont come off.." "any-ANYway-.." "entropyne.. entropyne umm mmm yes .." ".." "i want a snack ."

[valentine-canine]

[She looks concerned when they say it won’t come off but shakes her head. She agreed to drop it, she’s not gonna say anymore. Instead she smiles at them and chuckles.]

Go get yourself a snack hon, heheh :3

[familiarityupp]

"mm okay!!"

(they get up, wandering down to the kitchen to get a bowl of cereal)

[valentine-canine]

Push some cereal through the screen too, I want a snack hehehe

[familiarityupp]

(they push the phone into the bowl of cereal- though they didnt put the milk in yet so its fine)

[valentine-canine]

Oh sweet Cocoa Puffs, hell yeah >:3

[Its harder to hear her due to the phone being in the cereal]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah... we have a sudden abundance of em.. idk why" (referencing that lucia ask ehe)

[valentine-canine]

[She starts making fake eating noises]

[familiarityupp]

(they take the phone out of the bowl and fill it wit milk) (they grab a spoon- but for some reason seem to freak out when they look at it, accidentally throwing it,, sending it clattering over the kitchen counter with a yelp)

[valentine-canine]

Ellane? You alright?

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah-.. sorry.. im fiine--.." "this is ifne.." (they grab a kitchen towel, which was previously hung on a small wooden rack, starting to wipe at the handle aggressively, despite Valentine seeing nothing there, they eventually just sigh and give up, getting a new spoon and just.. leaving it there, trying not to touch it to the palms of their hands)

[valentine-canine]

Are you sure you’re ok?

[familiarityupp]

"uh- yeah- yea.. everythings fine.." "its okay-.. im good.."

[valentine-canine]

… Ellane I know I said I’d drop it earlier but something is clearly wrong. You don’t have to tell me everything, but don’t lie honey. Please.

[Val’s voice is quiet, she sounds guilty for bringing it up.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "its e-e..eeverywhere..." "cant you see it... "

[valentine-canine]

[She squints and stares at the screen, trying to see what they’re talking about.]

I don’t see anything honey, I’m sorry.

If it means anything to you, I trust you. If you say you’re seeing something I’ll trust you, even if it’s not there.

[familiarityupp]

"bb-..blood.." "it-.. w-wont.. come out.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks to see if she can spot their hands, and pauses to think for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is calm and steady.]

Ok Ellane, can you do me a favor? Wash your hands with cold water, ok? If it’s real blood it’ll wash off, and if it doesn’t wash out then it’s not real.

If you’ve washed your hands earlier, just… try again for me, ok?

If it really isn’t going away, then it’s not real. You aren’t bleeding, or covered in another persons blood, it’s your mind playing tricks on you and you’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they go to the sink, positioning their phone so she can see) (they turn the tap on, washing their hands) (they start out fairly calm,, but keep getting more and more aggressive and panicked with it when it just /wont/ /wash/ /out/) (you hear them breathing a lot heavier) "wwhw.what do i do.." "its n-not coming off.."

[valentine-canine]

Blood washes out a lot easier than you think, if it isn’t coming out it’s not real, ok?

Your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re ok, honey. It’s gonna be ok.

Take some slow, deep breaths, close your eyes, and focus on my voice ok?

You’re ok. Your hands don’t have blood on them. There’s no blood from another person, there’s no blood from you. It’s ok. You’re ok.

[familiarityupp]

(they grab their phone, and slump down against the counter, in a ball, you hear them start to sob..) "o-okay.. ill.." "ill-.. breaths.. breathing.. um.." (they start to count- but their breaths are not actually in sync with the counting atall so it does nothing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val’s keeping her voice calm]

It’s gonna be ok honey. Repeat after me, ok?

Take a deep breath in for four seconds

Hold your breath for seven seconds

Exhale for eight seconds, and repeat.

[As she goes over the steps she does each one and keeps her voice steady, repeating the exercise to get them to follow along]

[familiarityupp]

(theyre... tryyiing.. but its not going too great.. they succeed at like.. two of the things she asks themto do.. their eyes screwed shut)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps calmly and quietly repeating the instructions and following along with them, she doesn’t take her eyes off of Ellane the entire time. She’ll keep doing it until either Ellane’s breathing evens out or they say or do something.]

[familiarityupp]

"c..can i l-look now.." "or-... can.. can you look for me.. please.."

[valentine-canine]

[She stops doing the breathing exercises but she keeps the same calm tone.]

I haven’t been able to see the blood, so I can’t tell you if you’re still seeing it or not, Ellane.

How about this- take a quick peek at your hands, if you’re still seeing the blood you close your eyes again and let me know, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they lean the phone against a chair leg shakily,, and slowly they open their palms.. and scream.) (they screw their eyes back shut and begin to cry softly) "m--more.. im-.." "theres more.. s-so .. mu---ch.." "im--.." "gonna throw up- i.." "its everywhere-.."

[valentine-canine]

Shit-

[Val stops herself and goes back to the same tone as before.]

Ok, just… focus on my voice, ok honey? Focus on me.

You don’t have to open your eyes again, just sit down and breathe.

You washed your hands a lot, if the blood was real it would’ve come off. You don’t have to look at it, but it isn’t there, alright? It’s ok.

You’re gonna be ok. Stay on the phone with me and keep your eyes closed.

[familiarityupp]

(theyre just kinda whimpering a little at this point) "o-okay.. ill .. ill stay.." "um.. what do.. what do i do.. i still wanna.. e-eat but.." "how can i.. do anything.. like this.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s gonna be ok, alright? You’ll be able to eat and do things, just uhmm… give me a moment.

[With their eyes closed they can’t see what Val is doing, but they can hear her moving and picking up what sounds like a book, sounds like she’s flipping through pages kinda fast. She starts mumbling under her breath as she flips through.]

Come on come on I know we went over this recently where the fuck is that chapter-

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane just keeps pressing their head into their knees.)

[valentine-canine]

[After about a minute, Val finally stops flipping through pages and lets out a sigh of relief]

Finally, there we go-

Ok, uhmm….

Ellane honey, can you turn the phone so I can see around the room please?

[familiarityupp]

(they reach out, fumbling for the phone without opening their eyes.. they find it eventually, and awkwardly point it out to the room.)

[valentine-canine]

[Val hums to herself as she looks around the kitchen- the room is brightly lit with no reflective surfaces like a mirror from what Val can see.]

Ok, uhmmm… textbook says to avoid shadows, triggers such as reflective surfaces, move out of the room if able-

Wait avoid the triggers…

Ellane do you have a blanket or jacket somewhere? I might have an idea to help you calm down a bit.

[familiarityupp]

"nn.n.nnot here.." "not in here... its um.. in wills room.."

[valentine-canine]

Ok, I’ll let you make the choice here-

You either flip the camera so I can talk you through getting to Will’s room, or you open your eyes but keep your hands out of view so you can get there.

[familiarityupp]

".. its not just my hands.."

"its all over the soles of my feet.. my thighs.." "i cant get it off.." "it went away for a bit.. when i was with astrid.." "and then i just started bleeding again.."

"ill k-keep my eyes closed.."

[valentine-canine]

… I see.

In that case slight change of words- do you want me to guide you or can you walk while keeping your head up? Like, not looking down at yourself, just keeping your head straight and level.

If you still want me to guide you that’s perfectly fine, it’ll just be a bit slower, but as long as you’re comfortable it’s alright.

[familiarityupp]

"... yeah.." "um.. thats okay.. we can d othat.."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, I’ll walk you through it. Can you stand up please?

[She’s keeping a calm, level voice for them as she prepares to instruct them on where to go.]

[familiarityupp]

(They stand up shakily, eyes still screwed shut)

"um.. wh-where do i go.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val looks over the room again over the phone.]

Ok, remember to take it slow-

Start walking forward, I’ll let you know when to stop.

[familiarityupp]

(they walk forward shakily, thigh scraping against the dining table, until they get to a wall and Val tells them to stop, the door is to their left btw)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, you’re doing great hon, now turn towards the left- I’ll tell you when to stop turning- and walk through the doorway, you’ve got this

[familiarityupp]

(their hand fumbles against the wall.. leaving a long red trail behind it.. ruining the wallpaper) (they manage to get to the door, swinging their way through it..) "um-- so.. wh-where now,..."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmmm… ok do you remember if Will’s room is upstairs or downstairs?

[familiarityupp]

"upstairs.. its up."

[valentine-canine]

Alright, you’re gonna walk straight until you get to the bottom of the stairs, mkay?

[familiarityupp]

"h-how far is that.."

[valentine-canine]

Uhmm… little hard to say exactly while over the phone, so just walk until I say to stop hon, take your time

[She’ll let them know to stop about three steps away from the first stair]

[familiarityupp]

(a figure stands to the side of the stares.) (it stares into the camera.)

[valentine-canine]

What the fuck-

[They can hear Val clear her throat try talking in the calm tone again but there’s an edge of panic to her voice.]

Ellane, stop. Back up slowly, no sudden movements, ok?

Who are you?

(ooc// I don’t know COC rules well is there something I can roll for insight or smth she wants to know if it’s a threat ._.)

[familiarityupp]

"huh- am i in the wrong-.." "im.. im ellane... right..?" (theyre stepping back a bit, until they bump into a wall)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// holy FUCK I’ve never been so happy to have dice roll low I got a 4 on Occult)

[Val stares at the figure for a moment, tracking its gaze and realizing it’s staring not at her but at Ellane. Her voice is tense and quiet.]

Ellane, listen carefully, alright? Keep your eyes shut tight and keep the phone facing the same way it is now.

There’s a figure by the stairs, don’t know who or what it is but I don’t trust it.

I need you to get back in the kitchen, ok? You should be at the wall where the door is, feel your way towards it and get back inside.

Don’t open your eyes and don’t run unless I tell you to. Keep your eyes closed and move slowly and carefully.

[familiarityupp]

"...val youre scaring me.." "it- you told me it wasnt real.." (they keep backing up, scraping their hand against the wall until theyre back in the kitchen.)

[valentine-canine]

Yeah, the blood isn’t real, not the Slenderman knock-off by the stairs that I didn’t know was there until you left the kitchen!

[She’s whisper-yelling right now, it’s pretty clear that she’s freaking out but trying to be chill]

Wait shit Ellane close the door- keep your eyes shut but close the door-

[familiarityupp]

"i c-cant find-.. the handle-.." (theyre fumbling around for it, theyre crying again by now.)

[valentine-canine]

It- it’s ok it’s ok just move your hand to the left the handle is right there

[After Val points out where the handle is she focuses her gaze back on the figure by the stairs, not taking her eyes off it until Ellane closes the door.]

[familiarityupp]

(they find it, and close the door, juts as it swings shut, val can see the creature point into the camera)

[valentine-canine]

Ok before you do anything else is there a lock on that door please for the love of everything that is holy tell me there’s something to lock that goddamn door

[Any bit of calm in Val’s voice is gone the second that thing points at her, she sounds terrified, talking faster than normal.]

Or like- I don’t know- grab a chair and use that to hold the door shut or something holy shit holy fucking shit-

[familiarityupp]

".." "n-no um-.." "tell me whats going on..."

[valentine-canine]

There was-

There was a figure at- at the stairs. Not on them but next to them, and it… it was staring at you. Not- not moving, just… there. I think it uhm… was pointing at its eye?

And it freaked me out and I didn’t know if it was dangerous to you or not but it looked dangerous so I wanted you to get to the kitchen and right as you closed the door it uhm- it pointed at me- or at the camera or whatever the fuck-

[Her voice is shaking. It’s pretty clear that this is her first look at the actual horrors of Deadwood and she is not taking it well. She clears her throat a bit to try to steady her voice but it doesn’t work that well.]

You uhm- you sure you can’t block the door with a chair or something?

[familiarityupp]

(they swiftly find the lock lmao) ".. . .. " "mom.. is it gonna get me again.."

[valentine-canine]

I uhm… I don’t know…

You’re uhhh… you’re in the kitchen at least? You could get a weapon? Maybe?

Is there a way out from the kitchen aside from the locked door?

[She sounds tense and uneasy. On Val’s end she’s fidgeting in her seat and trying to fight the urge to look over her shoulder, focusing on Ellane’s situation instead.]

[familiarityupp]

"nn-no.. the exits are through the door.." (the door shakes, the knob turns, and then nothing.)

[valentine-canine]

… Oh fuck that Ellane get a knife and get ready to run if that thing manages to open the door.

[familiarityupp]

".." "then i have to open my eyes..?"

[valentine-canine]

… Fuck.

Ok I really don’t want you to open your eyes right now because I’m like 95% sure it didn’t attack you because you weren’t looking at it and also I don’t know if you’re still hallucinating the blood which if you are will stress you out more and- just… fuuuuuck-

Ok- uhm… can you uhh… fuck I don’t want you getting close to that door if you can help it- I’m gonna try to listen and see if it’s gone, ok?

(ooc// Keeper I wish to roll Listen please can I do that? :3)

[familiarityupp]

(they press the phone to the door, and turn it on speaker, shushing her) yes u can!

[valentine-canine]

[Val stays as quiet as possible and focuses, trying her best to hear if the figure moved]

(ooc// Keeper that’s a 21! :3)

[familiarityupp]

(you hear breathing.. and then you hear it getting further away.) (you hear the front door creak infact.)

(and then nothing atall)

[valentine-canine]

[Val keeps her voice just loud enough for Ellane to hear.]

Ok, I think it’s gone now- I heard the front door creak and I don’t hear anything else.

I uhm… I think you should get something to defend yourself and get to Will’s room, in case it comes back.

[familiarityupp]

"okay-.. can i.. can i open the door..?"

[valentine-canine]

…

[She takes a shaky breath to try and steady herself.]

Stay behind the door and open it enough to stick the phone out- point the camera towards the front door. I’ll tell you if the coast is clear, if not shut the door, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they do so.) (the creature is gone.. door left open..) (a small white card sits on the desk.)

[valentine-canine]

… It’s gone. It left the door open, looks like it left something on the desk too.

[She still sounds scared, but they can hear the fear leaving her voice a little.]

[familiarityupp]

".." "can i-.. can i go out..?"

[valentine-canine]

I think it’s safe to.

Uhm… I feel like you should close the front door, though. Even if that thing is gone, it’s still not a good idea to keep that open.

Maybe check the card it left, too.

[familiarityupp]

".. can you read it out to me.. i dont wanna.. open my eyes just yet.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val lets out a small, shaky sigh]

Ok, start heading to the left so you can close the front door, I’ll tell you when to stop and tell you where the doorknob is

[familiarityupp]

(they sloowly walk forward, almost tripping on the edge of the carpet)

[valentine-canine]

Careful, lift your foot up more so you don’t trip honey, almost to the door

[familiarityupp]

(they do so-- their crutch donks against the leg of a table but they dont fall,, they make it riight to the door, fumbling with the handle until they get it closed and locked)

[valentine-canine]

Ok, good job hon

[Val’s still a little shaken, but they can hear her voice becoming much calmer.]

Now, turn around and walk back- I’ll tell you when to stop- then turn to the right, once I read out the card thingy I’ll guide you up to Will’s room, ok?

[familiarityupp]

(they just follow her directions, waving the crutch infront of them every few steps to make sure they arent walking into something)

[valentine-canine]

Alright, stop here honey

Now, can you angle the camera down a bit so I can read the note?

[Once it’s fully visible, Val will read the card left behind.]

[familiarityupp]

(they point the camera down a bit, and the note- or, photo- comes into focus.) (i will not say on the blog what it is yet, buut i can tell you in dms x3)

[valentine-canine]

[They hear Val go quiet on the other end- if they listen closer it sounds like she’s trying not to throw up, but it’s hard to tell. When she does speak her voice is shaken, a little rough.]

El-Ellane, I need you to throw the pictures away. Don’t look at them, don’t open your eyes just- get rid of them. However you have to do it- crumple them, burn them, anything just get rid of those pictures and do not look at them-

[familiarityupp]

".." "m-mom.. im scared-.." "what-.." "why cant i look...?" "whats in the photoes..?!" (they keep their eyes screwed shut, but they dont crumple the photoes yet)

[valentine-canine]

Something you really don’t want to see, ok? Just- just crumple them up and get rid of them. Please just trust me on this

[She sounds completely earnest, scared, and a little disgusted. She’s not masking anything in her voice, whatever she saw in those pictures Ellane really shouldn’t see.]

[familiarityupp]

(Ellane crumples it halfway and stops) "..mom.. whats gonna happen if i look at it.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t-

[She tries to steady her voice but the more she talks the more the shaky and worried she sounds.]

Listen. I don’t know how you’ll react to it, I just know that what it’s showing and what’s written on it is bad. It’s horrible and you shouldn’t have to see that ever.

Ellane I’m begging you please do not look at those pictures please-

please…

[familiarityupp]

".." "i trust you.." (they screw it up in their hand, and rip it in two without looking.) "so.. c-can.. can i go back to my room now please.."

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// Thank FUCK)

[Val lets out a loud, shaky sigh in relief]

Thank you honey-

Oh, right, ok. I gotcha, follow my instructions and take it slow, alright?

[To speed things up, Val instructs Ellane how to get to the base of the stairs and slowly but surely tells them how to get up to the top]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually make it up,, with some tripping) (the photo scraps go in their pocket outside of val's view x3)

[valentine-canine]

(ooc// HOW DARE YOU >:0)

Alright, now uhhh…

Wait does Will have any decorations on his door or anything?

[familiarityupp]

"yeah-.. um.. some really corny ones.... like a biig warning sign and stuff..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val sees the very obviously William coded door and continues to guide Ellane towards it and open the door]

[familiarityupp]

"ehe.. thanks for being my guide dog mom x3" (they clumsily open the door, and walk in, theres a blanket laid out on the bed)

[valentine-canine]

[She lets out a small chuckle and they can hear a hint of a smile in her voice.]

You’re welcome hon :)

Ok, you’re gonna walk forward, then turn to the right and walk until you get to the bed, there’s a blanket there

[She continues to instruct them until they reach the bed]

Now just feel out for the blanket and wrap yourself up in it- that way you don’t have to see your hands or the rest of your body

[familiarityupp]

(they do, balling up in the blankie, and then finally open their eyes) "... im okay.. " "....im okay?"

[valentine-canine]

[They can see Val on the phone- she looks relieved, giving them a small smile.]

You’re ok, honey, you did good :)

[familiarityupp]

".." "are you gonna tell me what was in the photo..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Ellane can see Val’s smile drop and she avoids eye contact. She looks uncomfortable.]

I uhm… I can’t. Those pictures, they weren’t-

It was bad, Ellane. Really bad.

You were already dealing with hallucinations a bit ago and that- that thing being in the house wasn’t helpful at all. I don’t want you to see the pictures and scare or hurt yourself more.

I don’t want to tell you because I want to keep you safe from that.

[familiarityupp]

".." "okay.. um.. ill.. t-trust you.." "thanks mom.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val just nods, giving them a half-hearted smile. She won’t meet their eyes.]

[familiarityupp]

"..mom..?" "whats wrong..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She blinks and tries to look at them, but can’t. She looks guilty and a bit scared, even if she tries to suppress it.]

It- it’s nothing, just… wasn’t expecting the stuff from earlier and I’m… freaked out by it, is all. I’ll be fine.

[familiarityupp]

"..." "are you scared of me.."

[valentine-canine]

[That gets Val to look at Ellane again, and she starts talking frantically.]

N-No! No I’m not scared of you, honey, I promise- I was scared but I was scared for you, not of you. You didn’t do anything wrong it’s just-

The thing looking at you- I heard it go for the door to the kitchen I heard it breathing by the door like it was waiting for you to open it and- and the pictures those fucking pictures- they scared the hell out of me and I just- I didn’t want you to get hurt or see that and I couldn’t do anything to keep you safe if that thing moved towards you-

[She takes a breath.]

I was scared of that thing and what I saw, not you. Never you.

[familiarityupp]

".. thats-.... okay im.. g-glad youre not scared of me.." "please... tell me-- what was in those pictures.."

[valentine-canine]

I can’t do that to you honey, I just can’t- I’m sorry

[She can’t do that to herself either, it’s already burned into her memory, saying it out loud will make it worse.]

[familiarityupp]

"..." "um.. okay.." "you--... are you okay..?"

[valentine-canine]

[Val is holding the phone with one hand and fidgeting with her sleeve with the other.]

I’ll be- I’ll be fine, I just… I need a minute, ok?

Can you uhm… can you just, talk to me? Doesn’t matter what subject I just need to calm down but I don’t like quiet too much-

[familiarityupp]

"umm... well-... to be honest i dont know what to say but.." "i-- thankyou.. for like.. saving me and stuff.. i wouldve been done for without you.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a weak smile and nods slightly]

I’m… I’m glad I was able to help, honey

[Its less obvious because she’s not repeating the steps aloud, but if they pay attention they can see that Val is doing the same breathing exercise she was trying to get Ellane to do earlier when they were panicking. She seems a little calmer from that and from Ellane talking]

[familiarityupp]

"um-... mom-.. you.. do you wanna go..?" "i can.. i can hang up if you want.."

[valentine-canine]

I-I’m fine, it’s fine

…

If- if you want me to hang up I can I just… I wanna be sure you’re safe and I know I’m probably just catastrophising but I’m worried something bad will happen if I hang up and you’re alone in the house- actually are you alone right now? I didn’t hear Will or Lucia so I wasn’t sure, are either of them with you? Or Will’s parents?

[She looks Ellane in the eyes, she looks incredibly worried. Her breathing is calming down and she’s fidgeting less at least]

[familiarityupp]

". . .im alone.." "the others are out right now.." "i dont wanna leave but-- i wqas just wondering if you prefered that.."

[valentine-canine]

I don’t wanna hang up either- at least until I know you’re safe

I’m sorry, this isn’t helping you at all, is it?

[She gives them a half-hearted smile]

[familiarityupp]

".. not really .." "im just kinda scared.."

[valentine-canine]

me too.

[Val shakes her head (like a wet dog) and gives them a (hopefully) reassuring smile]

Well, that thing is gone, and with any luck it won’t be coming back. You’re safer now.

If it’s ok, I can stay on the phone with you until you’re feeling better. Whatever you wanna do, hon.

[familiarityupp]

"mm... thankyouu.." "i dont-- um.. dont suppose you have the energy for... beans right now...?"

[valentine-canine]

For you? Always :3

[She focuses for a second and holds up ✨da beans✨ but she looks tired almost immediately]

…

ok still always but for like a couple minutes the fear and adrenaline wore off and now I feel tired as fuck

[familiarityupp]

"mm.." (they smile at the screen-- a little strained but, real atleast) "thankyouu.." "beanss...."

[valentine-canine]

[She hesitates for a moment before very lightly booping the screen]

boop :)

[familiarityupp]

"yaaayy...." "thankyou.."

[valentine-canine]

[She gives them a tired smile]

No problem, hon

[They can see Val move to flop onto her bed on her stomach, holding the phone in front of her.]

So, uhhhh… you guys do anything fun lately?

[She sounds a little awkward, not sure what to talk about but trying to keep the conversation light]

[familiarityupp]

"yeah!!!" "i did some cooking with Lucia x3" "we made like.. fried.. cheese.. honey.. stuff.."

[valentine-canine]

Oooooo, that sounds good! :0

How’d that go for you two? :)

[familiarityupp]

"very well!! they were so yummy.." "hard to eat with my new teeth though.."

[valentine-canine]

Ah- right. How’s that going for you, anyways? Any pain? :<

[She tilts her head to the side a little, curious]

[familiarityupp]

"still a lil achey,... but theyre overall quite nice x3"

[valentine-canine]

That’s good, maybe see if you can take a painkiller or something if the toothache is too bad though :0

(ooc// Keeper do their teeth look the same as the last time they called? Do I gotta roll for dat? :0)

[familiarityupp]

(they do not!! they look more sharp and stuff)

[valentine-canine]

Huh, your teeth look a bit sharper now, interesting :o

[familiarityupp]

"whu--... like theyre still growing..?" "..didnt expect that :P"

[valentine-canine]

I didn’t either, but at least they look cool, and you’ve got an extra self-defense thing

[Val grins and shows her own sharp teeth- at least they’re not alone with not looking fully human :3]

[familiarityupp]

"Mmmm.. i look more like dog mom every day :D"

(They joke.. doing a lil half hearted giggle, its obvious they're still not over what happened earlier tho..)

[valentine-canine]

[Her smile fades a little, she’s not fully over it either.]

Uhhmmm…

I’m sorry, I wanna talk to you but it’s kinda hard to think of what to talk about right now…

[familiarityupp]

"Its fine... you can go if you want.."

"I get it if you dont wanna look at me right now.."

[valentine-canine]

It’s not that, honey- it’s not you, it’s not your fault.

I was freaked out by that thing downstairs. I like seeing you, I swear.

It’s just… I dunno. You guys deal with scary shit all the time I’ve never really come that close to experiencing that and… honestly I was less scared about me and more scared because you were the one in that situation and if it attacked you I wouldn’t be able to keep you safe….

[familiarityupp]

".. .mm okay.. you're right to be scared tho... this stuff is really scary..."

".. what did it look like.. whatd it do..."

[valentine-canine]

... honestly when I was freaking out I said it looked like a knockoff Slenderman and it felt pretty fitting- top of its head was kinda wrinkly, like a brain...

It was just pointing, first at its eye and then right as the door closed it pointed at me. But before it pointed at me I got the feeling it was looking at you, so... I think maybe it was waiting to see if you'd look at it before it hurt you, like a... reverse Weeping Angel rule thing maybe? I dunno, I'm not good with this stuff, that was just what I picked up.

And after that I didn’t see it but I heard it try to open the kitchen door, then wait by it before leaving.

[familiarityupp]

"..."

"Why didnt it kill me..?"

"It needs me to see it to control me, sure.. but it shouldnt prevent it from attacking..?"

[valentine-canine]

Maybe… maybe all it wanted was to control you. And when that didn’t work it left those pictures to scare you.

[familiarityupp]

"..but why,..." "Its killed me before.. why control me now..?"

[valentine-canine]

If I had to guess? I think it’s trying to toy with you at this point

I mean, if it wanted you dead, it wouldn’t have waited for you to open your eyes, or it would’ve tried harder to open the kitchen door- hell it could’ve waited outside for you to eventually leave but it didn’t

It didn’t get its way so it left something for you to see that would’ve messed with your mind even more

[familiarityupp]

".." "..i.. thanks for.. not letting me see em..

[valentine-canine]

Of course, the last thing I want is for you to suffer, honey

[familiarityupp]

".. ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

… how are you feeling, after all of that?

[familiarityupp]

".. not great.." "it really freaks me out that you wont tell me about the photos.. plus i still cant look at my own body for fear of what ill see..."" "im scared.."

[valentine-canine]

I’m sorry honey, I wish I could do more for you…

Telling you what’s in those pictures will only scare you more, which is why I don’t want to tell you. As for your body, uhmm…

I don’t fully know how to word this, so I’m sorry if it doesn’t sound right, but… you’ve proved that it isn’t real, even if you don’t want to take my word for it you’ve washed and wiped off your hands enough times that any blood would’ve already come off. Brains are weird, and complicated, and stress and bad memories and experiences can make you brain do things like make you see and feel things that aren’t there.

I think… I think maybe it’d be for the best if you see if you can spend some time with people in person soon- having a positive distraction can help counteract those hallucinations, plus there’s safety in numbers which would help you with your fear

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. oki... i should hang out my girlfriend soon..."

[valentine-canine]

You absolutely should- how long has it been since you’ve hung out, anyways? :0

[familiarityupp]

"mmmmmm.. i honestly cant remember,..." "days are blurring together recently.."

[valentine-canine]

I hear that

Visiting her sounds like a fun idea at least :)

[familiarityupp]

"mmm... shes so frickin cool dude..."

[valentine-canine]

She definitely sounds awesome :3

[familiarityupp]

"..thee coooolest.."

[valentine-canine]

Well, aside from being super cool, what else is she like?

[familiarityupp]

"um.. shes reaaaaally pretty.. and shes so kind and funny and... shes so frickin weird but like-- in a good way x3" "...i dunno.. those are all really surface level but shes hard to describe.. i just loveher.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles softly]

She sounds perfect, honey :)

[familiarityupp]

"...entirely.." "i really love her dude,," (their face has gone quite red..)

[valentine-canine]

[Val coughs into her hand to cover up what she’s saying, they can hear that it’s a lighthearted teasing tone]

cough cough gay cough cough

[familiarityupp]

"Heyyyy-- are you being mean to me >:("

(theyre still smiling ehe)

[valentine-canine]

Whaaaaaaaaaaat, no, I would never!

[She has a look of mock offense on her face but it’s clear she’s trying her best not to smile]

[familiarityupp]

" >.< dog mom's mean to meee..." (theyre trying very hard to look upset- and failing)

[valentine-canine]

[Val sticks her tongue out at Ellane with a big, smug smile on her face]

[familiarityupp]

(they cant keep pretending to be mad,, aand crack, giggling a lot :P) "ehe... :P" (they do a :P right back at her)

[valentine-canine]

[Val smiles and then bursts into a fit of giggles]

[familiarityupp]

(they eventually calm down from their manic giggling enough to talk, all though mumbled..) ".. i like this.." "its nice... when we get to just mess around--" "when the worlds not on fire.."

[valentine-canine]

[Val settles down as well, a warm smile on her face]

We’ll have plenty of time to mess around when this is all over, hon

I think, as scary and bleak as this stuff is, you guys can figure it out, and when you do we can call and celebrate :)

[familiarityupp]

"Mm.. im sure when its over.. we can hang out.. and itll be fun and awesome..." "and we can all be happy again :)" (they say, not really beliving it themself)

[valentine-canine]

[Val gives them a determined smile]

We’re absolutely gonna hang out when it’s all over, it’ll be great >:3

[familiarityupp]

".. yeah :]" "its gonna be awesome" (they flop back on will's bed, taking the phone with them ofc)

[valentine-canine]

Damn right it will >:3

Oh, that reminds me, how’s Will doing? I haven’t heard from him in a bit :0

Lucia too, actually. I should be checking in on her more often, how’s she doing?

[familiarityupp]

"Will's.. okay?" "Lucia- .. shes better than before but. still rough too.."

[valentine-canine]

You sounded a little hesitant there, you sure he’s alright?

Mmmmm, hope Lucia feels better soon- maybe I should make her something for when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"... i have no idea with Will.." "i mean-- im the one having a freaking psychotic episode,, but somehow he seems crazier than i am!!!"

"..sorry." "um-- please do... she deserves it.. big time."

[valentine-canine]

You don’t have to apologize- honestly I’m pretty worried for him, but he’s a smart kid so I’m sure he’ll be fine. If there’s anything you think I could do to help him let me know :<

I will- think there’s anything specific I should make her?

[familiarityupp]

"mm.. you could cook for her..?"

[valentine-canine]

That’s what I was thinking of doing- I just need to figure out what recipe to make…

Think she’d want something sweet or should I make her an actual meal? I know how to bake a couple things, and I have some recipes that are pretty good but I don’t know if they’re something Lucia would enjoy…

[She starts muttering different ideas, getting a bit distracted]

[familiarityupp]

"um.. she mentioned something called a "placenta".." "but not-- not like the organ.. apparently its also a food.."

[valentine-canine]

… my search history is gonna look so weird but I gotta see if I can make that when she’s feeling better

[familiarityupp]

"id guess its worth it..?"

[valentine-canine]

It’d hopefully make Lucia happy so I’d say it’s worth it :)

[familiarityupp]

"true !! she reaaally deserves it :)"

[valentine-canine]

Definitely- I also wanna make sure I make enough to send to Caligo too, poor girl must be worried sick about Lucia :(

[familiarityupp]

"mm... i dont doubt it to be honest.."

[valentine-canine]

Last I heard she’s also taking on all of Lucia’s work which is a lot

[familiarityupp]

"with how hard Lucia's been working.. i worry for her ..."

[valentine-canine]

… maybe I should make both of them care packages after Lucia’s feeling better

Throw in some food and a plushie for each of them to cheer them up after, my mom would do something similar when friends were going through hard times

(ooc// something my actual mom does! she’s done it for coworkers and friends to give them something nice while going through difficult times)

[familiarityupp]

"y-yeah.. that.. thatd be a lovely thing to do-- for them..ofcourse.."

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a bit, thinking.]

Might need to poke around a bit and see what animals they like, so I can get them plushies they’d want…

I can figure that stuff out later, not a big priority at the moment.

You feeling a little better, hon?

[familiarityupp]

".." "i guess.."

(theyre still wrapped up in the blanket)

[valentine-canine]

… that blanket looks comfy :o

[Sounds like she’s trying to think of some kind of positive distraction]

[familiarityupp]

"oh- yeah... im way too hot under it but.." "its fluffy atleast..?"

[valentine-canine]

[She nods a little]

Hmmm… but is it fluffier than this

[She holds up her hand with ✨Da Beans✨ once again]

[familiarityupp]

"woah...." "i dont think anything's fluffier than this x3" (their eyes go all sparkly) "beeaaannns..."

[valentine-canine]

[Val holds her paw up close to the camera so Ellane can see the beans more- she also does it to cover her face so they can’t see how tired she is, but they can still hear the smile in her voice]

Beeeeeeaaaaannnnnsssss :)

[familiarityupp]

(they press their face up to the screen, the blanket kinda unwinds a bit as they do so, falling off their shoulders, but theyre too focussed on staring at the beans to notice)

[valentine-canine]

Hehehe-

[Val gives out a tired giggle and moves her hand to see Ellane’s face before she notices the blanket slipping]

Oop- the blankets slipping off, hon, maybe adjust that really fast, don’t look down while you do it though, just in case mkay? Eyes on the beans while you fix that

[familiarityupp]

(they very sloppily try to re-ball themself without looking ehe, still veeery focused on the beans) ". . . thanks :P"

[valentine-canine]

No problem hon :3

[She still keeps her paw on screen but looks at what’s visible on the phone to make sure they’ve covered up fully]

[familiarityupp]

(liike.. mostly.. one of their knees isnt covered but its not really at an angle they can see anyway)

[valentine-canine]

[Val does a thumbs up]

Alright, should be good honey

[She boops their nose on the screen]

Good job :)