Strange Burns

[Doctor Boggs]

Has there been any contact with Eddie since his post about going to sleep? Under the circumstances it's a bit worrying if he doesn't keep in touch.

[Eddie Zero]

It has been a long couple of days. Jeff's condition has deteriorated beyond anything I've seen before, although at the moment he is heavily sedated and seemingly calm - what chaos he endures within his mind? I shudder to think of the mental agony he must be experiencing.

Last night a physician specializing in psychic healing was brought in at the behest of Mr. Hencrest. I narrated to the best of my ability the events at the old farmhouse, our session in the barn, Jeff's wounds, and our visit to the local hospital. The doctor immediately set to work - basically conducting an assessment of Jeff's physical status. The fever had worsened. The poor sonofabitch's body was as rigid as a board and strangely contorted under the sheets of his sweat soaked bed. The delirium had tightened its grip on the man. I wept for my friend.

The doctor's efforts lasted into the early hours of the morning and culminated with a decision to conduct an exorcism. I am not at all convinced that it has done anything to stem the deterioration of Jeff's sanity. The things he said to us... his outburst of violence... I do not know what we can do for him.

The doctor has agreed to stay with us and attempt another exorcism. But first we need to try and get some rest while Jeff is sedated.

Dr. Phillips has graciously provided a synopsis of his efforts here: http://www.lazlosociety.org/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=1608. Most of the evening's events have been recorded and I fully intend to analyze them as soon as I can focus my mind. I've been overcome with an intense feeling of dread. I wish I could sleep.

Please. If anyone has additional ideas or information that might save my friend, now is the time.

[Doctor Boggs]

It's hard to imagine something like that just popping up outta nowhere, especially since you encountered it by following up on a lead. I realize time is short but you, or someone you trust, needs to go back to the encounter site and get more info.

Might be other options if nothing else works, but they'll just keep getting riskier and riskier. I know I know, sorry that ain't more help.

[N.E. Phillips]

Hello Doctor Boggs.

I realize the circumstances surrounding the affliction of Eddie's friend are strange indeed, but I can also rationalize how it could have happened. Consider if the possessing force requires specific conditions within a potential host (yes it is a parasite, in my humble opinion). It could stand to reason that for all of its apparent power, it can't just take any host it desires. Furthermore, I've never seen a force like this so damaging to it's mortal host; suggesting the 'natural' progression of this possession to be quite fast.

Luckily for us, there are people we can trust. Your advice in this regard is much appreciated. Sometimes it's hard to see your options without an outside vantage point.

I have to go. Our second attempt to exorcise the force was a dismal failure, as was the first. We're about ready to make our third attempt.

Keep Eddie and his friend in your thoughts tonight.

[Doctor Boggs]

Well I'm glad to hear you're continuing battle, so there's still hope. Let us know how the third attempt works out, I'm hoping for the best. If not, perhaps a two pronged approach next time?

[Eddie Zero]

Doctor Boggs - the second attempt failed horribly. I provide an update of last night's third attempt in Dr. Phillip's War Stories thread 'Diseased Possession'. It was a debacle. Any advice you can provide is now urgently needed. Please help us.

[Eilonwy Solstice]

Eddie, here was Ethan’s write up of the exorcism, and here’s his profile. I hope that helps. I hope he can help.

[Jacob Hencrest]

Cripes. Dr. Phillips is out and I can't reach him. Eddie, you gimme a damn call and I'll help you find Jeff. I saw things earlier today. Things about Jeff.

Please get in touch with me.

[Eddie Zero]

Jacob - your timing is perfect. I meant to head out to the farmhouse this morning, but exhaustion got the better of me and I slept into the afternoon. Probably for the best since I may need all of my strength to bring this to resolution.

Phillips can no longer stay to help and, quite frankly, I don't know what more the good doctor could do. I fear that he may walk away from this more scarred than he or I anticipated.

Anyhow, I will be heading out in the early morning. I am trying to contact Dr. Boggs as well. Can you join us? At this point, the more help I can get the better.

I left a message on your phone with the rendezvous location. Figured a quick post on this board might reach you sooner. Call anytime. I'll be prepping most of the night.

[Doctor Boggs]

I did receive your message Eddie and should arrive post haste.

[Jacob Hencrest]

I'm on my way right now to your location.

[Eddie Zero]

Jacob, Dr. Phillips, and Dr. Boggs - thank you for your help. Jeff and I both owe you a great debt. I wish things had ended better for us all.

[Doctor Boggs]

I'm just sorry I couldn't do more to help, but you're welcome. It was good meeting you, despite the circumstances.