IC contact for lastvoyages

[cactusy]

[If I don't have an active post up, feel free to use this post to have your character call, videochat, text, or knock on Shaw's door.]

Comments

[cactusy]

"Mmm. Is that easier to avoid when you recognize that it's what you're doing?"

[empathicfault]

Will nods. "I have a lot of systems in place to make sure I don't go too far into other people's heads. So if I notice that something's off, I can pull back and look at things more objectively. Having more details helps with that."

Will should probably add that he's also just interested in learning more about Malcolm in general, but that's getting closer to his feelings than he wants right now.

[cactusy]

"Makes sense." Even if his file makes it clear that it's not a method he always uses, or at least not one that he chooses to follow through to the end if he does use it. "Tell me about some of those systems. You using any with me right now?"

[empathicfault]

Will grins briefly and shakes his head, looking back up into Shaw's eyes. "No, with you, I have to actually actively look. So I don't have to do my normal routine."

He looks back up, licking his lips, as he starts thinking about his techniques. Some of them have been with him for so long that he doesn't entirely remember where he picked them up. One is new and effective, but he'll be avoiding talking about that one for the time being.

"So if I find attachments forming, or I think I'm having feelings that aren't my own, I immediately detach myself from the situation, and throw any barriers in between us on the way that I can. Glasses go on, I close off my body language, I find something to stare at that I can focus on. If I can't remove myself, I'll do a slow count in my mind, timing with my breaths. Up to 10, then start over. Usually that's enough to stop anything happening in the moment."

He scratches his chin. "If it continues past that point, then I'm going to get away. Remove myself from the situation, find a small room to hide in with the lights off, pet whatever animals I'm near. Change all sensory experiences. Let myself reset."

[cactusy]

Considering the vast gulf of difference between both their personalities and their situations, it's interesting how similar his coping mechanisms are to some of Shaw's, and her eyebrows jump just slightly in response.

"I can keep an eye out for that happening. Sounds like you're pretty good at pulling yourself back, but. I'll lend a hand, if I need to. You got a go-to small room? Your cabin?"