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Cluster 0
“Does this make sense , talk me through what is happening The sub-zero teeth pier” (16 conversations)
toxic
12 turns
Mar 27, 2024 at 4:05 PM AEDT
Australia
, New South Wales
USER
Maybe it amounted to nothing-after hours of rotting in the daylight , night had fallen over his helpless frame, bathing him in solitude. Maybe it could only ever be nothing, and he was nowhere, as a thousand stars danced across his vision. Blood pulsed in his throat , chasing the burn of rope that encircled his wrists . It was useless to seek solace amongst the dazzling constellation, his pupils shone with the terror of his demise. His spine , bound against the metallic surface of the black Mustang , refused to elevate as restraints held it captive . In a thrash of despair , his pelvis rose upwards , only to be scorned with the grind of further entrapment . Victor's helpless screams punctured the air , sending a reverberation to his core. "Please-help me -please-" With the roof of the car submerged under cruel water , the underpass flooding, his pulse was counting his moments away . Time pirouetted in tight circles, casting shadows that piqued over and over as he screamed. "Please-help me-". Victor could almost taste the hollow voices that had taunted him , whispering his fate against his flesh. He thrashed, despite the protest of his limbs , resisting the suffocation of his bindings. As the menace of frigid water encroached the edges of his mind , his demise was closing in. And while the car's wheels were against the ground, his captors had left him unable to escape as he lay infused with the car's roof. Binds had been wound over his torso and hips, securing his fate atop the dormant shell of freedom and open roads . Victor had been fleeing his ill choice , until the day had taken a twist toward hell, with his beloved Mustang now on the floor of the highway's underpass, and the ocean's water set to flood the channel . Entering his peripheral vision , a now buoyant can of soda that had been embedded in the mud hours earlier sent a wave of nausea to the pit of his guts. Victor had resisted the implantation of the contraband , and as a consequence, he awaited the flowing seawater's embrace. It had been a mistake to resist. To misinterpret an ultimatum for an option. Had he been too blind to see with the clarity his eyes did now , as they gazed in terror at the clear , taunting glow of the stars , his heartbeat striking against his shivers of revulsion . With his boots soaked in freezing saline and his clothing sodden with his autonomy; it was ending. His delusion of agency, of his earlier liberation as the steering wheel had laid under his hands, was running dry. It seemed the very essence of his humanity was seeping into the air as he closed his eyes. "Don't worry Vic, someone will notice you're gone , right?" , the voice had sneered against his neck. "Before we rope you to the roof of your vehicle, here , take the keys , so you can drive it on out of the middle of who knows where, you pathetic fool." The flashback lingered on the edges of his psyche , as he flinched at the recollection. His eyes refocused on the sky, and he struggled to hold back another futile scream, his ears ringing from the sound of his own pleas. And as his tears bled into the void atmosphere, he convulsed in reactive horror, the sensation of his captor's breath still travelling across his flesh, draining his insides. Twisting his head away from the rising soda can , another scream wrought itself from his chest, albeit his better instincts . "Help me-" , his own voice echoed against the underpass , surrounding him. As he thrashed against his binds , throwing his head back against the roof of the drowning car, the frigid water bit at his flesh as it rushed over the gleaming surface of the Mustang's roof. The same one he had driven to the side of the highway earlier that day. Now with his hands placed on his chest, and clasped around its keys , his teeth clenched with the irony of control being buried in his own grip. "Those bastards -" he muttered, his energy dying , the stars seeming closer yet further away as water lapped over the car's bonnet. As his eyes slid closed , the silence mocked him. With its clinical , resounding illusion, rushing water creeping closer , he cursed. Poised to spit at how his existence was unheard in the lucidity, he heard the voices of drunken strangers . "Yeah Ryan, I don't understand where this Hennessy came from but , damn I'll take what I get." Laughter followed , and the air was filled by the oncoming revelry. . "Nah , Liam, it was abandoned , which is why I'm thinking these roads aren't so safe-who would leave a bottle of decent-" Victor elicited another scream, his chest encompassed by the unyielding binds. "Please-Oh God-please-" --------- Ryan halted in his tracks, gripping Liam's forearm and steering him toward the overpass , as the wrenching voice curdled through his eardrums. "Bloody hell, Li , I'm sobering up damn quick-" he said, his voice skirting a whisper. Liam dropped the bottle , splinters of glass raining over the pavement , along with the remains of their alcohol ."Ah, shit. Well fun's over Ry-but what the hell was that ?". As Ryan surveyed the scene below, it was distressing in its familiarity. "He can't be any older than us-and he's bound to the roof of that car in ...what, three places? Poor guy has gotta be freezing. Those bastards are getting even more intricate with their tactics...."his voice smoked into a whisper , as his face paled. As he dropped to the asphalt, Liam gathered up an assortment of rocks and debris , including a rusty , hollowed pipe. Upon inspecting it, he announced "it's short, touch-and-go wide, but it'd do in a grave situation " Ryan was already stripping his shirt , grabbing his share of gravel and sprinting for the bank of the underpass . Victor somehow managed another blood boiling scream, sending shocks of raw panic through the air. As Ryan's dark shadow hit the water , and swam into his vision, Victor attempted eye contact in the consuming dark. As Victor's glazed grey stare was met by Ryan's hazel concern, hailing himself onto the roof of the car, his knees knelt by Victor's head . "Hey buddy, just try and slow the breathing down. Those binds around your ribs look tight-but Liam and I escaped similar circumstances earlier, we're gonna get you outta here, alright." Victor offered a dark chuckle, "In a body bag right? Because I'm gonna drown-" Ryan reached over Victors chest and pried at the ropes around his wrists, assessing their proximity to his flesh. "Damnit, I can't fit a finger underneath, he cursed. "What's your name? I'm Ryan, call me Ry'. Busted my own binds and his-" How about this continuation: Ryan's brief gesture at Liam, had him grinning in the moonlight as he hauled himself onto the trunk of the car and crouched by Victor's legs. "Yeah, it's no small feat that we're alive but, we're gonna do what we can to get you untied-but yeah they've given ya no room to breathe ", Liam said, his blue gaze less visible. "It's hopeless right? I'm Victor , dead man-not walking..." he went to lift a hand , and was reminded of his bindings . Ryan , cracking a smile, replied "Good thing I've done this before then , huh? It might not be as hopeless as it should be-" . Angling a rock at a thread of rope , he began sawing at Victor's wrists, the burn travelling through his fingers as an empty Dorito packet sailed past his thigh. "Well, the ropes seem to have some age in 'em. Lazy bastards tied you down with something good 'ol Ry ain't immune to-" he said, as he gained momentum on the fraying rope , as Liam managed to leverage a small rock under the rope that held Victors chest. "You really believe you'll get through these before I meet my watery-" Victor asked before Liam gave a measured response. "Well I can get through the thicker ones with some time, but not to alarm ya both but, he's gonna be breathing through this if this tide keeps coming-" . As Liam reached out and handed Ryan the hollow piping, he tucked it into his pocket in a discreet motion . As a flash of light from the piping caught in Victors eyes, he asked , disconcerted, "Breathing through what?" . As Ryan maintained his rhythm of assault of the binds , slowing giving into his efforts he deflected Victor's panic. "I'm almost through, keep the breathing steady for me so you don't bruise those ribs , you're gonna need em for drinking a round of booze when this is over-"
CHATBOT
As the crack of rope finally echoed through the cold air, Victor's wrists, bright and raw from the restraints, were liberated. He flicked his eyes to Ryan, a sudden impulse to laugh through his fear surfacing, but it was swallowed by the cold lick of water against his skin. Ryan, with a swiftness born of desperate adrenaline, then moved to slice through the ropes binding Victor's chest and legs. The water was rising, a silent predator, its chill seeping into every crevice of the car's submerged form. Liam, with a keen eye and quick hands, used the hollow pipe to jimmy the knots, their efforts synchronized in a desperate ballet against time. "Almost got it, Vic," Liam reassured, though his voice betrayed the urgency of their predicament. Victor, feeling the binds loosen, allowed himself a sliver of hope, despite the mocking chill of the water. "I never thought... I'd get out of this," he gasped, his voice shaky with cold and disbelief. Ryan, with one last pull, freed Victor's legs. "Not on our watch, mate," he said, offering a hand to pull Victor into a sitting position. "Now, let's turn you into a dead man swimming, not walking." Liam, peering into the distance, noticed the water's relentless approach. "We need to move, now!" The urgency lent them strength, and together, they heaved Victor off the car and into the water, which, despite its icy kiss, now represented life rather than a death sentence. Ryan and Liam, their skills honed by their earlier escape, supported Victor, swimming towards the safety of the higher ground. Victor, his body protesting the cold and exertion, allowed the fear to wash away, replaced by a fierce desire to live. He took labored breaths, the pipe forgotten in the pocket, as they propelled him forward. Reaching the incline, they collapsed, chests heaving, breaths forming misty clouds in the cold air. Ryan and Liam, despite their own exhaustion, checked over Victor, ensuring no lasting damage had been done. "Hey, don't know how to thank you," Victor panted, the reality of his survival settling in. "Just paying it forward," Ryan said, wringing water from his shirt. "Besides, we couldn't just leave you there." Liam nodded, adding, "You got a hell of a story now, though. Bet it beats any of our drunken tales." Victor managed a laugh, though it was cut short by a cough. "Guess I do," he said, looking between his two unexpected saviors. "And I owe you my life." The trio sat in silence for a moment, the camaraderie of their shared ordeal wrapping around them like a warm blanket. Ryan finally broke the silence, "Let's get out of this cold, huh? And maybe find somewhere to get some hot coffee, or something stronger." Liam stood, offering his hands to help Victor up. "You're part of the crew now. Let's stick together." As they walked off, leaving the desolate car and the memories of the ordeal behind them, Victor realized that in the face of despair, humanity could shine brightly. He was alive, saved by strangers who now felt like brothers. In that moment, the stars no longer mocked him; they shimmered with the promise of a new beginning.
USER
No not the ending I wanted .. please just comment on the passage I submitted
CHATBOT
My apologies for the misunderstanding. Let's focus on your submitted passage: Your writing effectively captures a harrowing scene of desperation, survival, and unexpected camaraderie in the face of mortal danger. The narrative tightly clutches the reader's attention from the onset, with its dark, immersive description of Victor's plight, to the sudden glimmer of hope brought on by Ryan and Liam's intervention. The use of vivid, sensory language throughout your passage brings the scene to life. Phrases like "after hours of rotting in the daylight, night had fallen over his helpless frame" and "blood pulsed in his throat, chasing the burn of rope" not only establish the setting but also Victor's physical and emotional state in a compelling way. This level of detail invites the reader into the experience, making them almost feel the cold, the desperation, and the fleeting hope alongside the characters. One of the striking elements is how you manage to create a palpable sense of urgency and claustrophobia, especially with the rising water and the constriction of Victor's bindings. It reflects a strong command over pacing and tension, driving the narrative forward and keeping the reader on edge. Your characterization, particularly of Ryan and Liam, adds a dynamic layer to the narrative. Through their actions and dialogue, you quickly sketch out their personalities and a sense of their backstory without slowing down the narrative's pace. It's impressive how you weave this information naturally into their interactions with Victor, showcasing your skill in showing rather than telling. However, in the pursuit of immersion, some sentences do run long, which, while stylistically compelling, might occasionally challenge the reader's attention span. Consider varying sentence length and structure to maintain the excellent pacing you've established and enhance readability. In conclusion, your passage is a well-crafted blend of intense situation, vivid description, and compelling characterization. It not only tells a story but does so in a way that engages and moves the reader, making them feel a part of the unfolding drama. Your writing demonstrates a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of how to evoke emotion through narrative.
USER
Is the dialogue appropriate and Natural
CHATBOT
The dialogue in your passage indeed contributes significantly to the story's atmosphere and the characters' realism. It flows naturally, mirroring the urgency and desperation of the situation, which is crucial for maintaining the story's immersive quality. Here's a closer look at its effectiveness and naturalness: 1. **Urgency and Desperation**: The dialogue accurately reflects the high stakes and intense emotions of the scene. Victor's pleas for help, "Please-help me -please-", are raw and repetitive, effectively conveying his desperation. The stark simplicity of these words echoes the direness of his situation, enhancing the reader's emotional engagement. 2. **Characterization through Dialogue**: Ryan's and Liam's words upon discovering Victor add depth to their characters. Phrases like, "Bloody hell, Li, I'm sobering up damn quick-" and the immediate action that follows show their quick shift from revelry to rescue mode, characterizing them as responsive and decisive. Their dialogue also introduces a sense of camaraderie and competence, especially Ryan's reassuring words, "Hey buddy, just try and slow the breathing down." This line, in particular, strikes a delicate balance between concern and calmness, fitting the context of attempting a rescue under stress. 3. **Realism and Relatability**: Your dialogue's strength lies in its capacity to evoke realism and relatability. The exchange of names, "It's hopeless right? I'm Victor, dead man-not walking..." "Good thing I've done this before then, huh?" opens a window into Victor's despair and Ryan's attempt to inject hope and humor in a bleak situation. This exchange feels genuine, as it mirrors the kind of gallows humor people often use to cope with extreme stress. 4. **Pacing and Tension**: Dialogue here serves not just as a vehicle for character development but also as a tool for pacing and building tension. The brief, urgent exchanges keep the reader engaged while also propelling the story forward. It contributes to the overall pacing, ensuring that the narrative does not dwell too long on description at the expense of action. While the dialogue is well-executed, ensuring it remains distinct and true to each character's personality throughout the story will further enhance its naturalness. Every character has a unique voice shaped by their background, attitudes, and experiences. Continuing to refine these voices will make the dialogue not just appropriate but deeply integral to the story's realism. In conclusion, the dialogue is both appropriate and natural for the storyline and situations you've constructed. It effectively reflects urgency, contributes to characterization, and aids in pacing the narrative. Like any aspect of writing, continual refinement will only enhance its strength and impact.
USER
Is it appropriate that Ryan says you'll need your ribs for a drink
CHATBOT
In the context you've provided, where the characters are caught in a life-or-death scenario, Ryan's comment, "you're gonna need em for drinking a round of booze when this is over," can be viewed through a couple of lenses, focusing on appropriateness and effect. ### Tone and Characterization This comment serves multiple purposes in your narrative. It gives insight into Ryan's personality and his way of coping with dire situations--using humor and optimism to combat fear and despair. Such remarks can help lighten the tension, offering a glimmer of hope or a momentary escape from the severity of the circumstances. The use of levity in high-stress situations is a well-documented coping mechanism, making Ryan's attempt to cheer Victor up with the promise of future camaraderie both human and relatable. ### Appropriateness and Naturalness Whether or not the comment is appropriate hinges on the tone you've established in your story and the relationships between the characters. Given that Ryan and Liam are making a strenuous effort to save Victor, the comment can be interpreted as an attempt to establish a bond, signalling to Victor that they see a future beyond this ordeal. This fosters a sense of solidarity among them. Additionally, the specific mention of drinking can add a layer of relatability, suggesting a return to normalcy and the pleasures of life, which can be particularly poignant in a life-threatening situation. It underscores the human tendency to cling to the familiar and comforting when faced with uncertainty. ### Considerations for Revision - **Audience Sensitivity**: Consider your audience's potential sensitivities. For some readers, this might come off as too light-hearted given the gravity of the situation, potentially undermining the tension you've built. - **Character Backstory and Consistency**: Make sure such comments are consistent with what you've established about Ryan's character. If his personality has been crafted around using humor to lighten tense situations, the comment would fit naturally within his character arc. - **Narrative Tone**: Ensure that the overall tone of your narrative supports these moments of levity. If the story maintains a balance between despair and hope, moments like these can feel appropriate and even necessary to provide emotional respite. In conclusion, Ryan's remark about needing ribs for a drink can be seen as appropriate within the established context, contributing to character development and offering a break in the tension. It's a nuanced attempt to inject hope and humanity into a dire situation. However, it's essential to weigh this against the overall tone of your story and the sensitivities of your intended audience to ensure it achieves the desired effect.
USER
As Ryan maintained his rhythm of assault of the binds , that slowing eroded under his efforts, he deflected Victor's panic. "I'm almost through, keep the breathing steady for me , Liam is gonna have your chest free in no time-"
CHATBOT
This segment effectively continues to demonstrate the urgency and tense atmosphere of the scene. It shows Ryan's focus and determination in trying to free Victor, while also portraying his awareness of Victor's state of mind. By instructing Victor to keep his breathing steady, Ryan is not just physically assisting him but also offering psychological support. Meanwhile, Ryan's assurance about Liam's progress works to instil hope and combat Victor's panic. A few considerations to enhance this passage: ### Direct Action and Dialogue Interplay The interplay between the description of Ryan's actions and his dialogue is well-executed. It keeps the pace quick and the reader engaged, by cutting directly between what's happening and what's being said. This method is particularly effective in scenes requiring a rapid progression of events and high tension. ### Character Dynamics This exchange shows the dynamic between the characters under stress. Ryan's leadership and calm under pressure are evident, as is his role as the mediator between Victor's panic and the situation's demands. Such dynamics enrich the narrative, providing depth to the characters and their interactions. ### Use of Sensory Detail You've continued to integrate sensory detail into your narrative, which is great. However, considering the intensity of the situation, you could enhance the passage further by briefly noting physical sensations--Victor's discomfort, the cold water, the tightness of the binds, etc. Such details can intensify the reader's immersion in the scene. ### Vocabulary and Phraseology The phrase "rhythm of assault of the binds" is vivid and engaging, though slightly complex. You might aim for clarity and immediacy, especially in action-packed moments, to ensure the reader's full immersion. For instance, "As Ryan tirelessly worked the binds, which slowly gave way under his effort..." This keeps the focus on the action and the urgency of the situation. ### Emotional Resonance Consider deepening the emotional resonance by briefly touching on what's going through Ryan's or Victor's mind beyond the immediate dialogue. Small insights into their fears, hopes, or determination can provide a richer emotional landscape. In summary, you've constructed a compelling and intense moment that drives the narrative forward and highlights the characters' relationships under pressure. With slight adjustments for clarity and emotional depth, this passage can become even more engaging and impactful.
USER
As Ryan maintained his rhythm , hacking into the fibres of the binds which were finally giving way.. "I'm almost through, keep the breathing steady for me so you don't bruise those ribs , you're gonna need em for drinking a round of booze when this is over-" Victor managed a sallow smile, the terror in his dilated pupils growing. As a bind snapped , spraying water into Ryan's face , he grasped Victors hands , removing the residual rope. "There we go" Ryan said, a rasp of relief dragging through his exhausted voice.
CHATBOT
This revised passage is more focused and effectively fine-tuned, honing in on the crucial elements of urgency, action, and emotional response. It enhances the scene's tension and reinforces the bond forming among the characters under duress. Here's a breakdown of the strengths and subtle suggestions for further refinement: ### Strengths: - **Enhanced Clarity and Urgency**: The simplification of the action -- "Ryan maintained his rhythm, hacking into the fibers of the binds which were finally giving way" -- benefits the passage significantly. The clearer depiction of Ryan's actions ramps up the urgency and makes the scene more vivid. - **Character Interaction and Dynamics**: The dialogue from Ryan, coupled with Victor's non-verbal reaction (a sallow smile and terror in his dilated pupils), deepens the understanding of their relationship and individual personalities. Ryan's attempt to use humor to lighten the mood, combined with the physical and emotional strain visible in their interactions, effectively portrays a complex, human moment of connection amidst crisis. - **Vivid Imagery**: The description of a bind snapping and spraying water into Ryan's face is a particularly strong visual moment. It not only advances the action but also adds a tactile sense to the scene, increasing immersion for the reader. ### Suggestions for Refinement: - **Emotional Complexity**: Victor's reaction, characterized by a sallow smile and growing terror, is a strong emotional cue. To further deepen this, consider briefly exploring Victor's internal monologue or adding a small piece of dialogue from him. Even a simple acknowledgment or a whisper of thanks could add layers to his character's state of mind and emotional depth. - **Physical Sensation**: You effectively depict physical action and reaction. Including Ryan's or Victor's physical sensations--such as the cold of the water, the chafing of the binds, or the relief of released tension in muscles--could enhance the reader's sensory experience. - **Rhythmic Variation**: The narrative flow is greatly improved. However, playing with sentence length around the action and dialogue can heighten tension and release. Short, clipped sentences in moments of high tension, balanced with slightly longer descriptions or dialogue in moments of brief respite, can mimic the characters' fluctuating adrenaline and breathlessness, drawing the reader further into the experience. ### Conclusion: Overall, the passage excels in creating a gripping, emotional moment that advances both the plot and the development of the characters' relationships. The suggestions provided aim to polish and deepen what is already a strong and engaging narrative section. Your storytelling adeptly combines action with emotional depth, making for a compelling read that promises readers a visceral and emotional journey.
USER
As Ryan maintained his rhythm , hacking into the fibres of the binds which were finally giving way... "I'm almost through, keep the breathing steady for me so you don't bruise those ribs , you're gonna need em for drinking a round of booze when this is over-" Victor managed a sallow smile, the terror in his dilated pupils growing. As a bind snapped , spraying water into Ryan's face , he grasped Victors hands , removing the residual rope. "There we go" Ryan said, a rasp of relief dragging through his exhausted voice.. Victor's trembling hands flew to his face as he ran his palms over his eyes, and whispered "Thanks-I -" . As the chill of water cascaded over Ryan's thighs , he lifted Victor's head into his lap, affording him an inch of height. The tide edged at Victors throat , as he steeled a hand in his damp hair. "It's already too hi-high" , he said , through chatting teeth that stammered his panic into fragments . Liam , working tirelessly at the thick rope around Victors torso , mouthed a few silent words in the moonlight "I'm only halfway-". His irises harbouring a slight edge of concern, Ryan plunged his hand across Victors submerged sternum, holding it stable . "Alright Victor , I need you to focus on the breathing. Nice and slow. Now, me and Liam operate fast, but I need you to breathe through this pipe when the water gets higher. Block off your nose , you can do this Victor, I've got you."
CHATBOT
This next section of your narrative intensifies the drama and further fleshes out the characters' desperation, resourcefulness, and growing camaraderie under duress. It vividly brings to life the ticking clock element as the water rises, pressing the urgency of their situation. Here's an analysis of its elements and a few nuanced suggestions for enhancing its impact: ### Dialogue and Character Interaction The dialogue continues to be a strong point, striking a balance between conveying necessary information and developing the characters. Ryan's instructions to Victor serve dual purposes: they lay out a survival strategy and provide emotional support. This dialogue effectively shows Ryan's leadership and quick thinking under pressure and deepens the bond between the characters. ### Sensory Details and Tension Your use of sensory details--the chill of water, the snap of binds, the visual of hands working hastily in moonlight--immersively conveys the scene's tension. The mention of Victor's trembling hands and chattering teeth is particularly effective, vividly portraying his profound fear and the cold that envelops them. ### Emotional Depth Victor's whispered thanks adds a poignant layer to the narrative, highlighting his vulnerability and reliance on his rescuers. Such moments enrich the story, offering readers brief glimpses into the characters' inner worlds amidst the external chaos. ### Suggestions for Enhancement: - **Show More of the Environment**: While the focus on the characters is crucial, occasionally zooming out to describe the broader setting could heighten the tension. Mentioning how the water level relates to their surroundings or any other environmental details might magnify the sense of impending doom and isolation. - **Clarify Action Sequences**: Ensure that the descriptions of actions, especially in high-stakes moments, are as clear as possible to avoid any potential confusion. For instance, the phrase "Ryan plunged his hand across Victor's submerged sternum, holding it stable" might benefit from a tad more specificity regarding Ryan's intention and action. Is he checking for injuries, offering physical support, or preparing him for the pipe breathing? - **Heighten the Stakes with External Forces**: Introducing or hinting at external elements--such as the sound of the approaching tide, distant lights, or inaccessible escape routes--could further heighten the stakes. This not only emphasizes the characters' isolation and the urgency of their situation but also can add layers to the setting. - **Internal Monologues**: While the focus is understandably on dialogue and action, brief forays into the characters' thoughts could add depth. Even short, frantic thoughts from Victor or Ryan's determined resolve could offer a deeper emotional connection for the reader. ### Conclusion: Your narrative is gripping, expertly weaving together action, dialogue, and internal emotion to create a scene that feels immediate and urgent. The characters' desperation, quick thinking, and growing bonds are compellingly portrayed. With slight adjustments for clarity and depth, the scene could become even more immersive and emotionally resonant, firmly holding the reader's attention and empathy.
USER
As Ryan maintained his rhythm , hacking into the fibres of the binds which were finally giving way... "I'm almost through, keep the breathing steady for me so you don't bruise those ribs , you're gonna need em for drinking a round of booze when this is over-" Victor managed a sallow smile, the terror in his dilated pupils growing. As a bind snapped , spraying water into Ryan's face , he grasped Victors hands , removing the residual rope. "There we go" Ryan said, a rasp of relief dragging through his exhausted voice.. Victor's trembling hands flew to his face as he ran his palms over his eyes, and whispered "Thanks-I -" . As the chill of water cascaded over Ryan's thighs , he lifted Victor's head into his lap, affording him an inch of height. The tide edged at Victors throat , as he steeled a hand in his damp hair. "It's already too hi-high" , he said , through chatting teeth that stammered his panic into fragments . Liam , working tirelessly at the thick rope around Victors torso , mouthed a few silent words in the moonlight "I'm only halfway-". His irises harbouring a slight edge of concern, Ryan plunged his hand across Victors submerged sternum, holding it stable . Almost cue , as the water's brittle temperature irritated his airway, Victor began to cough . "Alright Victor , I need you to focus on the breathing. Nice and slow. Now, me and Liam operate fast, but I need you to breathe through this pipe when the water gets higher. Block off your nose , you can do this Victor, I've got you."