tushanshu | 003

[For those who have seen Temeraire before, the dragon is noticeably more tired-looking than usual, and very nearly pale underneath his dull black scales. Though he is seated comfortably in front of the console, he seems nevertheless agitated: his whiskers are twitching slightly, and his breathing is strangely rapid.]

I was out to the shell's edge very early this morning, since my usual stock of fish had run out, and I could not help but notice how difficult it was to fly, and how much more difficult it became, the higher I went. It reminded me very much of Atamischar: the pressure in the air felt very similar there, and it took me much longer to stay aloft than it has previously.

But that is nothing new; a great many of you have been feeling weak, of late. I will cut to the chase, since there does not seem to be any way around it: the barrier around the turtle is shrinking. I do not think I could venture more than a hundred metres out before I was forced to turn back, with precious little to show for my troubles. It seems to me this must, too, be related to Asti's illness, but as for a cure--I am sorry to admit I have none.

[He pauses, a little awkwardly, clearly unused to asking for this sort of favour.] In the meantime, with my usual supply of food curtailed for the foreseeable future, I should like to offer my services. I have recently completed my lessons with Lieuen, and am fluent in the most common dialect of the kedan language, though I am sure I might puzzle out any closely related dialects, given time; if you have any material you should like translated, with the utmost discretion, pray let me know. Failing in that, I have retained at least a little of my strength, and would be happy to assist anyone where I may.

[Another pause, and he switches off the feed.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[A pause as Temeraire's ruff flattens briefly against his neck, in anticipation of more comments about how he ought not exist. When none are forthcoming, he tilts his head and blinks, considering.]

I did, as well, but they did not keep very long, in the heat. [Or you ate them all, Temeraire.]

[Well, he ought not to exist, but it's not the time for that now. Keep calm, soldier on and all that. They are both terribly British.]

Well then. I don't imagine it will last you very long, but at least it is something.

Yes, of course, it is. Thank you, Admiral.

[a w k w a r d]

I--is there anything you need done, in return?

[So awkward.]

No. Ah, thank you.

Well--pray let me know, if you do: I am in your debt, otherwise.

Yes, of course.

[Most stilted awkward apology ever? Ever.]

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