In The Breeze Of The Autumn Leaves
Chapter 3: Waiting Room
Word count: 4000
Thank you @jimothybarnes, @creatura-theanarchist @em0bussy and @everybodyshusband for the support you have shown.
Tw: PTSD, flashbacks
Tw: Dentist scene (not super important so you can skip it)
Read on AO3:
As you settled into the nondescript waiting room of the dentist, the sterile scent of antiseptic hung in the air. Outdated magazines, their corners worn from countless hands, were strewn across a small table. The low hum of fluorescent lights added an almost hypnotic quality to the otherwise mundane surroundings.
Your gaze wandered, inadvertently fixating on a faded poster illustrating the anatomy of a tooth. The clock on the wall ticked away, each passing second echoing with an unspoken tension. The muffled sounds of dental equipment emanated from behind a closed door, creating a subtle symphony of anxiety.
The receptionist, with an artificial smile, called out names from a clipboard. Each utterance felt like a step closer to an impending unknown. The subtle discomfort in the stiff waiting room chairs mirrored the growing unease within.
As you flipped through a magazine, attempting to distract yourself, the harsh fluorescent lights seemed to exaggerate the sterile environment. The faint buzzing of a faulty light above added an erratic rhythm to the already uneasy atmosphere.
Time stretched in the waiting room, as if adhering to its own reluctant pace. The unfamiliarity of the dental office and the impending dental chair evoked a quiet apprehension. Each passing moment heightened the anticipation, amplifying the disquiet that lingered in the air.
You were ushered forward by a nurse wearing mint-green scrubs as the door to the dentist's office suddenly opened. The journey from the waiting room to the dental chair felt like a never-ending march, with your own heartbeat accompanying each step.
The dental seat itself appeared to deride your trepidation, its chilly, engineered surface welcoming a shudder down your spine. The dental specialist, clad in a clean white coat, welcomed you with a disconnected impressive skill. As you reluctantly sank into the sterile embrace of the chair, the room was filled with the whirl of machinery.
The elevated light, blindingly brilliant, transformed the room into a clean safe house for inconvenience. The medical caretaker gave over defensive eyewear, adding a layer of oddity to the looming dental system. The dental devices, fastidiously organized on a plate, shined with a disrupting accuracy.
As the dental specialist inclined in, covered face darkening any hint of compassion, the metallic taste of dread covered your faculties. The far-off murmur of the drill and the musical tapping of apparatuses against the plate turned into a shocking ensemble, muffling the rest of the world.
An unsettling combination of vulnerability and clinical distance made every minute in the dental chair feel like an eternity. The germ-free fragrance strengthened, mixing with the flavour of tension that waited on your tongue. Time appeared to sway in the harsh clinical light, making each passing second an agonizing stretch toward an uncertain conclusion.
The dental chair, now an instrument of both physical and psychological discomfort, held you captive. The clinical precision of the tools, the blinding light, and the distant sounds of machinery converged into an overwhelming sensory symphony. Panic began to tighten its grip as your surroundings intensified in their sterile and unforgiving nature.
The nurse, seemingly oblivious to the rising tension, adjusted the protective eyewear on your face. The shielded view only added to the surreal disconnect, amplifying the sense of vulnerability. As the dental specialist leaned in, their masked face devoid of empathy, the metallic taste of dread intensified.
The distant hum of the drill and the rhythmic tapping of instruments against the tray became an oppressive cacophony, drowning out the world beyond the clinical confines. Every nerve in your body seemed to scream, caught between the sterile atmosphere and the disconcerting precision of the dental tools.
The harsh light, once clean and reassuring, now cast shadows that danced with your mounting anxiety. The scent of antiseptic, initially just a background note, now seemed to permeate every breath, mixing with the metallic taste of fear. Time itself warped in the harsh clinical environment, each second stretching into an agonizing eternity.
The overwhelming stimuli pushed you to the edge, and a wave of panic threatened to engulf your senses. Your chest tightened, breaths became shallower, and a profound sense of helplessness settled in. The dental chair, once an innocuous piece of furniture, now symbolized a looming ordeal that your mind struggled to comprehend.
It has been a couple of weeks since your last encounter with the cardinal, and with the beginning of October just rising to the surface. You felt a subtle shift in the air, as if the changing seasons brought with them a new chapter of possibilities. The memories of the mysterious meeting with the satanic cardinal lingered in the background, adding a layer of intrigue to the ordinary rhythm of life.
October, with its crisp air and the gentle rustle of falling leaves, embraced the city in a tapestry of autumn colors. The streets adorned with pumpkins and the scent of cinnamon wafting from nearby cafes created a comforting ambiance. Juno, ever attuned to the changing seasons, seemed to revel in the cool breeze and the vibrant hues of fall.
You arrive at the dog park, and as you revel in the leaves of the shedding trees, you take off her leash at a secluded area of the park. You throw her ball across the field of the park and Juno darts after it with unrestrained enthusiasm. The vibrant autumn leaves swirl in her wake, creating a playful dance of colors in the crisp October air.
As Juno retrieves the ball, her tail wags with joy, and you can't help but join in her exuberance. The dog park becomes a canvas of autumnal delight, with the hues of the changing leaves and the boundless energy of your golden Labrador infusing the scene with warmth.
As the ball arcs through the air once again, you take a moment to reflect on the peculiar encounters of the past weeks. The satanic cardinal's umbrella, now safely stowed at the ministry, seems to resonate with the autumnal ambiance, its dark hues blending seamlessly with the shadows cast by the trees.
“Hey!” You hear a familiar voice.
Turning towards the familiar voice, you find Cardinal Copia approaching with a casual stroll. His attire, a harmonious blend of deep reds and autumnal hues, seems to echo the seasonal transformation around you. A friendly smile graces his face as he draws near.
"Hello again! Fancy meeting you here," Cardinal Copia greets, the warmth in his heterochromatic eyes mirroring the gentle autumn glow.
You return the greeting, "Hey! It's a pleasant surprise. Just enjoying the October vibes with Juno here." You gesture towards your playful Labrador, who is now taking a break from chasing the ball and observing the approaching figure with curiosity.
Copia chuckles, "Ah, the joys of autumn. I must say, the city looks quite enchanting in this season. Mind if I join you for a stroll?"
You welcome the company with a nod, "Not at all. It's a beautiful day. How have things been at the ministry?"
Copia falls into step beside you, and as you continue your leisurely stroll through the park, he shares updates about the ongoing projects at the satanic ministry. The conversation effortlessly weaves between the mundane and the mysterious, creating a tapestry of connection amidst the rustling auburn leaves.
“Good, still busy with research, my brother hasn’t been making this easy.” Copra chuckles with a smile on his face. “How are you doing?”
“I’m alright, had an appointment at the dentist today, she mentioned about how I have really sharp teeth! Can you fucking believe that?”
“Oh, you must be one of my ghouls.” Copia teasingly remarks, as he winks at you.
“Ghouls?” You ponder.
“Yes ghouls, creatures of the night, lovely little guys really, you should meet them.” He continues to make conversation, but you have a puzzled look on your face.
As he speaks, Copia gestures animatedly, emphasising the mysterious allure of these creatures. "Imagine having a group of loyal companions, bound to you by some supernatural connection. They're usually quite resourceful and can handle tasks that might be a bit... unconventional, let's say. It's a bit like having your team of magical assistants."
He chuckles, sensing that he might be overwhelming you with this information. "But don't worry, meeting my ghouls is entirely optional. They tend to keep to themselves unless summoned for a specific purpose. Besides, I value our human interactions too much to let them overshadow our conversations."
“No…I’d love to meet them, Copia.” you say, rather sheepishly.
“Then that is that” Copia states. You question the uncertainty of what that could mean. “We’re actually having a ghoul summoning soon, hehe.”
“A ghoul summoning? What’s that?” you ponder silently.
"Think of it like inviting guests to a party," Copia elaborates. "Except in this case, the guests happen to be otherworldly beings with their own unique abilities and characteristics."
You listen intently, feeling a mix of curiosity and apprehension about what the ghoul summoning entails. Copia's explanation paints a vivid picture of a ritual steeped in ancient tradition and mystical energy.
As you walk and talk, the topic of the ghoul summoning continues to weave through your conversation, interspersed with anecdotes about Copia's experiences with these enigmatic creatures. With each passing moment, the prospect of witnessing such a ritual fills you with a sense of excitement tinged with a hint of trepidation.
“So, Copia, how exactly does one summon a ghoul? Is it like a catholic mass?” you ponder, your eyes twinkling with curiosity.
Copia chuckles softly at your question, the warmth in his heterochromatic eyes mirroring his amusement. "Ah, not quite like a Catholic mass, my friend. While both involve rituals and ceremonies, the summoning of ghouls is a distinctly different practice. It's more akin to invoking ancient forces and tapping into the mysteries of the occult."
You listen intently, intrigued by his explanation.
"Summoning a ghoul requires a deep understanding of arcane knowledge and a mastery of esoteric rituals. It involves the recitation of incantations, the drawing of symbols, and the creation of a sacred space where the veil between our world and the realm of the ghouls grows thin."
You nod, absorbing his words with fascination.
"So, it's a sort of...ritualistic ceremony?"
"Exactly. It's a solemn affair, conducted with reverence and respect for the ancient powers we seek to invoke. Each step of the ritual is carefully orchestrated, designed to channel our intentions and establish a connection with the ghouls.”
"And what happens once the connection is established? Do the ghouls appear before you?"
Copia's expression grows thoughtful as he considers your question.
Copia: "Not always. Sometimes, the presence of the ghouls is felt rather than seen. They may communicate through subtle signs and omens, or they may impart their wisdom directly into the mind of the summoner."
"It sounds...intriguing, to say the least. I can't imagine what it must be like to witness such a ceremony."
Copia smiles warmly, a glint of excitement dancing in his eyes.
"It's an experience like no other, my friend. A journey into the realms of mystery and wonder, where the boundaries between the mundane and the supernatural blur and anything is possible."
You return his smile, feeling a thrill of anticipation coursing through you. The prospect of witnessing a ghoul summoning with Copia by your side fills you with a sense of excitement and curiosity, eager to explore the hidden depths of the occult.
The golden rays of the sun continued to shine down, illuminating the world with its warmth and radiance. However, its reign was cut short as ominous clouds slowly crept in, casting a shadow over the once bright sky. The clouds soon grew heavier, and the first droplets of rain began to fall, pattering against the ground like a gentle melody.
With each passing moment, the rain grew heavier, transforming from a gentle shower into a torrential downpour. The once vibrant landscape became shrouded in mist and fog, obscured from view by the thick curtain of rain.
“Unfortunately, I don’t have my umbrella, this time, si?”
"Shall we seek some shelter?" You ponder aloud, gesturing towards the end of the field where the rain threatens to soak you through. "I know of a cafe, close to here, dog friendly too. Juno! Come here, girl!" you call out to the Labrador, her head perks up at the mention of her name, and with a wag of her tail, she trots over to you, her eyes bright with excitement.
Copia nods in agreement, his eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of the café. "Lead the way," he says with a smile, gesturing for you to take the lead as you set off towards the shelter of the cafe, Juno bounding happily alongside you.
With Juno by your side, you pick up the pace, the rain starting to fall more heavily as you run towards the promise of warmth and dryness. The sound of the raindrops hitting the ground echoes in your ears, a rhythmic accompaniment to your hurried footsteps.
Finally, you spot the familiar sign of the café up ahead, its inviting glow beckoning you closer. With a sense of relief, you quicken your pace, the promise of shelter and a hot drink spurring you forward.
As you reach the door of the café, you pause to catch your breath, Juno sitting patiently by your side. With a smile, you push open the door and step inside, the warm scent of coffee and baked goods enveloping you like a comforting embrace.
“What would you like, Copia?” You ask, as you feel the remnants of the rain on your hair.
Copia takes a moment to shake off the rain from his coat before answering your question. "I think I'll go for a classic cappuccino," he replies with a smile. "And perhaps a slice of that chocolate cake they have on display."
As the waiter comes up to you, you toy with the words in your mind.
You smile warmly at the barista as you place your order, your voice filled with gratitude for the hospitality of the cafe.
"Two cappuccinos, two chocolate cakes, and some water for the dog, please," you request, making sure to include Juno's refreshment in the order.
The barista nods with a friendly smile, jotting down your order on a notepad before turning to prepare it. You watch as she expertly steams the milk for the cappuccinos and slices generous portions of the decadent chocolate cake.
As she works, you can't help but admire the skill and care she puts into each step of the process, knowing that the end result will be nothing short of perfection.
After a few minutes, the barista returns with a tray laden with your order. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and rich chocolate fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.
"Here you go," the barista says, placing the tray on your table with a smile. "Enjoy your drinks and treats and let me know if you need anything else."
You thank her graciously, taking a moment to appreciate the spread before you. The cappuccinos are topped with frothy foam and a dusting of cocoa powder, while the slices of chocolate cake glisten temptingly in the soft light of the cafe.
With a contented sigh, you settle into your seat, ready to indulge in the warmth and comfort, as you pour some water into Juno’s bowl. She laps it up gratefully, her tongue slick.
“What a lovely companion, ay? How long have you had her?”
You smile at Copia's comment, a warmth filling your heart as you watch Juno happily lap up the water from her bowl.
"She's indeed a lovely companion," you agree, reaching down to give Juno a gentle pat on the head. "I've had her for about a year now, and she's been an absolute blessing. She's not just a pet; she's also a source of comfort and support, especially during those challenging moments."
Copia nods in understanding, his gaze softening as he observes the bond between you and Juno. "Animals have a way of understanding us in ways that humans sometimes can't," he remarks, his voice tinged with admiration.
You nod in agreement, feeling a surge of gratitude for Juno's unwavering loyalty and companionship. "Exactly. Juno has a knack for sensing when I'm feeling anxious or overwhelmed, and she knows just how to comfort me. She truly is a sweetheart."
As you speak, Juno nuzzles against your hand, her tail wagging happily at the sound of your voice.
"Actually, Juno isn't just a companion. She's my emotional support service dog," you explain, your voice tinged with gratitude and pride.
Copia's eyes widen with interest, prompting you to continue. "I suffer from anxiety and PTSD, and Juno has been trained to help me navigate through the challenges that come with these conditions. Whether it's sensing when I'm about to have a panic attack or providing comfort during moments of distress, she's always by my side, ready to lend her support."
“Ah, I see…” Copia nods thoughtfully, his expression a mixture of empathy and curiosity. "It's truly remarkable how animals like Juno can provide such invaluable support," he says, his voice carrying a note of genuine admiration. "Their ability to sense and respond to our emotional needs is nothing short of extraordinary." Copia's gaze softens, a silent understanding passing between you. "It's clear that your bond with Juno runs deep," he continued to remark, his tone filled with genuine warmth. "You're fortunate to have such a loyal companion by your side."
You bring your cup to your lips, inhaling deeply the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the sweet scent of cocoa. With each sip, you feel a sense of warmth spreading through you, the rich flavour of the cappuccino serving as a soothing balm to your soul.
As you both indulge in the comforting embrace of your drinks, the bustling atmosphere of the café fades into the background, leaving only the quiet intimacy of your shared moment. For a brief moment, time seems to stand still as you savour the simple pleasure of each other's company and a delicious cup of coffee.
“Look at the paintings on the wall. Is this an art café?” you ponder.
“It certainly seems like it. I love how each piece adds its unique vibe to the atmosphere."
You nod in agreement, taking a moment to appreciate the creativity and talent on display. "Yeah, it's like a mini art gallery in here," you remark, your gaze drifting from one painting to the next. "It adds to the charm of the place."
As you both continue to admire the artwork, you find yourselves drawn into a conversation about the different styles and techniques showcased on the walls. The cosy ambience of the café, combined with the creative energy of the artwork, creates the perfect backdrop for your lively discussion.
You catch the attention of the same barista who served you earlier, a friendly smile lighting up their face as they approach your table.
"Excuse me," you begin, gesturing towards the paintings adorning the walls, "those canvases are lovely. Would it be possible for us to have one to do some painting?"
The barista's eyes light up with enthusiasm at your request. "Of course!" they reply eagerly. "I'm sure we can spare a canvas for some artistic expression. Let me go grab one for you."
With a nod of appreciation, the barista hurries off to retrieve a canvas, leaving you and the cardinal eagerly anticipating the opportunity to unleash your creativity.
A few moments later, the barista returns with a blank canvas, placing it gently on your table along with a set of brushes and paints. "Here you go," they say with a smile. "Have fun creating your masterpiece!"
You thank the barista profusely, your excitement bubbling over as you and Copia eagerly set to work.
As you and Copia settle into your seats, the vibrant colours of the café's walls seem to dance around you, infused with the creative energy of the artwork adorning them. You both take a moment to survey the blank canvas before you, each stroke of the brush holding the promise of a new creation.
With a sense of anticipation, you dip your brush into the palette of colours, the soft bristles gliding effortlessly across the canvas. As you begin to paint, your mind fills with images of swirling landscapes and vivid scenes, each stroke adding depth and dimension to your vision.
Beside you, Copia's brush moves with purpose, his hands deftly translating his imagination onto the canvas. You watch in awe as intricate patterns and bold colours emerge from his fingertips.
As the two of you paint, the café fades into the background, leaving only the rhythmic sound of brushes against the canvas and the gentle hum of conversation between you. Time seems to slow, allowing you to lose yourself in the act of creation, each moment filled with a sense of joy and wonder.
As you sit in the cozy confines of the cafe, sipping on your cappuccino and engaging in conversation with Copia, a sudden wave of dizziness washes over you. The chatter around you fades into the background as your surroundings blur, and you find yourself transported back to a moment from your past.
In your mind's eye, vivid images begin to materialise, each one a fragment of a memory long buried. You see yourself standing in a crowded street, the sounds of traffic and chatter echoing in your ears. But beneath the surface, there's an undercurrent of tension, a sense of impending danger that sends a shiver down your spine.
Suddenly, the scene shifts, and you find yourself in a dimly lit room, the air heavy with the scent of smoke and sweat. Shadows dance across the walls as figures move in the darkness, their faces obscured by masks of cruelty and malice.
Your heart begins to race as you relive the fear and helplessness of that moment, the memories flooding your mind with overwhelming force. Every sensation, every detail is etched into your consciousness with painful clarity, leaving you feeling as though you're trapped in a nightmare from which you cannot wake.
As the flashback intensifies, your breath becomes shallow and erratic, your chest tightening with a sense of suffocating dread. The present moment slips away, replaced by a haunting echo of the past that threatens to consume you whole.
For a brief moment, you lose all sense of time and space, lost in the grip of the flashback. Reality becomes distorted, fragmented into disjointed fragments of memory and sensation. The world around you blurs into a dizzying whirlwind of chaos, leaving you feeling adrift in a sea of uncertainty.
But just as suddenly as it began, it begins to recede, gradually releasing its hold over you. Slowly, tentatively, you begin to return to the present moment, your surroundings coming back into focus as you take a deep, steadying breath. You notice Juno’s head on your lap, her breath with you, easing you back into reality.
Copia's voice breaks through the haze, a grounding presence in the midst of the turmoil. "Are you alright?" he asks, his voice filled with genuine concern.
You nod slowly, still reeling from the intensity of the experience. "Yeah, I'm okay," you reply, your voice trembling slightly.
Copia nods in understanding, his expression one of empathy and compassion. "I'm here for you," he says softly, reaching out to offer a comforting hand. "You're not alone."
With Copia's support and understanding, you begin to regain your composure, the memories of the flashback slowly fading into the background. Though the experience has left you shaken, you take solace in the knowledge that you have someone by your side who understands and cares for you.
Stupid.
Silly.
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