Undergrowth (Log 05)

**FrankenSoul**

Oh gosh he was being stupid again wasn't he? He was, of course he was. Flustered, he moved to tug at his hair and looked down, giving a small shrug. Dreams? The world sounded familiar. He hadn't really slept too much since he was... well him. The last couple of times he had, he had seen a few strange, moving pictures in his head. Shyly, he explained this in his writing- while looking away with a sheepish grin of course.

'I was just wondering if it was normal or if I'm getting sick.'

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie giggled at how flustered he was getting. In all honesty it was rather adorable and child-like. "You're healthy as can be, Franky." She kept her answer somewhat vague to possibly keep that endearing flustered look.

Vivica shook her runes in her hand, watching the two ahead of her. It was actually a little bit lonely back here. Her dark gaze flicked to the small stones and crystals. Unsatisfactory answer. Her question hadn't been specific enough probably, or clouded by other thoughts.

**FrankenSoul**

She was enjoying this! So not faaair! Oh well, at least her giggle was utterly cute. He narrowed his eyes and puffed out his cheeks as far as he could- his best 'silly pout' face. Oh he'd get back at her for teasing him so later... After all, he wanted to test if she was ticklish. And it was great because it was physically impossible to get him back.

He released the air from his face and gave a crooked smile, shaking his head at her to make his shaggy hair move. He wrote quickly, not even looking at the paper. He was getting more and more used to talking this way, after so much practice.

'Okay then, well... Some of them were really weird. You were in one of them. You were wearing a really pretty dress, and I realized I really wanted to see you in a pretty dress.' He would have stuck out his tongue out at her if he could by his expression, very pleased with himself.

'And another...'

He grew somewhat serious, his eyes narrowing somewhat.

'Well, it happened the last time I slept. It was very, very weird. There was a big house, I think... and a big yard. A big pond was in the yard, and a little boy was leaning over it. He was holding a very beautiful, shining fish- I think it was literally glowing. But it was dead. And he was holding it to his chest and I think he was crying. And I woke up feeling very sad too.'

Maybe he pitied the boy. He had seem so heartbroken by the loss of the small, shining fish and Franky had wanted to comfort him. Did that mean anything? Or was it only his imagination?

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya giggled again at his pouting face. Somewhere she was caught between wishing she could have seen this expression when he was still more fleshy toned and thankful that she'd gotten to see it at all. His mention of dreaming about her in a pretty dress made her cheeks flush a soft rosy color but she kept smiling. "Aw. Well keep coming back and you might be able too." She would have kept on but the suddenly darker concentration kept her quiet. "Hm," The pixie pondered what he'd written. "It could mean something. Some people believe that dreams have meanings." Honeyed eyes glanced back at the witch and then to Franky. "Some people get visions that come through dreams--but their usually pretty fuzzy." Another option came through. "Or, maybe it's a memory? That happens sometimes."

**FrankenSoul**

Daaw look at that face. He should have pinched her cheeks. He hadn't meant to put her off into a bad mood, but he was worried about it. Still, if anyone knew what to do, it would be her. So it wasn't a meaningless thing then? Oh or maybe not... He frowned a little. That was confusing. As she glanced towards Vivica, Franky realized that of course she might believe such things. She was brimming with magic wasn't she?

Visions? As in, for the future? He couldn't imagine where it would be if so. And the dream had been very sharp, not fuzzy at all. The last one she said made him frown more. For some reason that one made him very uncomfortable. Did that mean it was the truth of the dream? He hadn't really ever remembered anything from his past. So was it now leaking into his head when he was resting?

He supposed he would just have to wait and see. For now, he realized that Vivica had been very quiet and the last thing he wanted to do was alienate her. Slowing his step so that he might fall back next to her, he beamed his best smile and carefully tapped her shoulder before gesturing towards the items in her hand. The motion was meant to ask, 'What's that?' or 'What are you doing?'

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya smiled at him reassuringly. "Mostly they're just dreams." She had just enough time to shrug before he fell back to their other friend.

Vivica nearly jumped at the tap on her shoulder. She'd been concentrating, trying to get some sense out of these so she hadn't seen Franky drop back next to her. The shock wore off quick when he motioned to the hand with her runes. "I'm passing the time." There was a hint of embarrassment as she admitted this. "They're runes." She turned the rose quartz pebble to show him the sign cut into it's surface. "Basically you ask a yes or no question, toss them," a small jump of her hand demonstrated. "And you get your answer by how the marks fall. All marks up: yes. None showing: no."

**FrankenSoul**

He... wasn't really sure how to handle Vivica. She seemed very calm and collected but at times could be jumpy. Like a cute little mouse. Yes, that was perfect. An adorable, smart little mouse! The thought made him smile as he tilted his head to listen to her. Oh so this was how she had fun then. She used her magic to answer little questions. Runes... They looked pretty! He wondered where they came from. Did she buy them, or make them? He'd have to ask her later.

But it could answer questions, how amazing! His eyes became round in wonder and he clasped his hands together, beaming like a child who had just found a secret stash of candy. His mind, which at certain times bounced around ideas faster than he could process them, crafted all sorts of ideas. Where the runes always right, or could they be wrong? Was there a limit to what they could answer? Could they perhaps answer things about his past for him if he phrased them in yes or no ways? Oh the magic of this world would have made his heart flutter if it was still beating! As it were, his steps became very bouncy and he quickly began to scribble across his pages.

'Can-'

Whoa. Whoa. No he needed to control himself. Attempting to slow his sudden flow of thought, he appeared embarrassed. He always did this. Okay, a few at a time then.

'Are they ever wrong? Could you ask it something for me please?'

**PhoenixAshes**

The interest and excitement on Franky's face was easy for Vivica to read. Honestly it was clear, anyone that was within distance to see his face could have seen it. "They're not usually wrong, but they're not right either." She explained, flipping a few of the other ones over in her hand. "It's really hard to give yes or no questions about things that aren't simple questions."

**FrankenSoul**

Oh... Oh then perhaps asking for answers of his past was too much. His excitement died a bit and it showed. He quickly recovered though, smiling and tilting his head to the side as he tended to do when a very interesting idea came into play. His cheeks seemed to grow slightly darker as he gave a sly glance towards Ciya. Was she paying attention...?
Bringing up his paper, he began to write slowly as he carefully shielded it from Ciya's eyes. Oh gosh he really shouldn't do this but he was going to before he thought too much on it. His smile couldn't be more sheepish as he revealed the words.

'Could you try to ask it if Ciya likes me?'

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica smiled at the written question. "I hardly even need these to answer that." Still she turned to her runes, still and quiet for a moment as the question was posed mentally, then she tossed them up and let them fall into her hand again. "Obviously, this is your answer." She moved them so he could see.

The pixie was curious but stayed where she had been, back a step or two. There was something sheepish in the way he'd been writing--or maybe she was just seeing it.

**FrankenSoul**

He really shouldn't be doing this. How foolish he felt. He almost shook his head and tried to brush it off when she told him she didn't need to ask him that. God he must sound like a complete idiot. Yes he was. But she did it before he could tell her to call it off.

Part of him was actually a little scared. What if it told him the opposite of what he was hoping for? His breathing that he continued out of habit froze as he looked over the runes... and found himself smiling. The warm feeling in his chest gave a little pulse and quiver. Oh actually he was very glad to he had asked them. Oh yes. He beamed towards Vivica, his expression giving his thanks without writing it. He looked as if he were glowing, without thinking carefully wrapping an arm around Vivica and giving her a gentle squeeze.

He detached himself after a moment and scrambled ahead to Ciya. Without waiting for permission he grinned, arms moving to sweep her from her feet and directly into his arms. Ah, he was getting flashbacks to their first meeting. He moved his face close to her own, nose touching her own as his eyes shone. He was suddenly in a very, very good mood.

**PhoenixAshes**

The beaming happiness in Franky's face had tipped Vivica off that he was probably about to show some kind of affectionate gratitude, so her reaction to the sudden single arm embrace wasn't terrible. The fact that it was gone as quick as it came also helped. Obviously he had more important things to attend to now.

Ciya made a lightly startled but pleased sound at suddenly being swept up, and in pure instinct she held tightly around his neck. "What's this all about?" The words were mixed in a bit of a giggle upon realizing how close they suddenly were.

**FrankenSoul**

Her only reply from him was a steady, happy humming that emitted forth from his throat. It was very similar to the sound a feline might make when pleased, though his was admittedly more gravely. The strange, warm spot that had been becoming more and more common flared up in his chest once again, spreading forth through his limbs until he could almost swear he could actually, physically feel Ciya in his hold.

He smiled as wide as he could at risk to the stitches of his mouth, swaying back and forth with her in his arms. It was almost ridiculous how he held her so, almost like a father or brother holding their smaller relative instead of something else. That didn't matter. He would need to thank Vivica somehow one of these days for putting up with him and giving him that little nugget of information that boosted his spirits so.
There was some rain among his sunshine though. Through his warm haze, it almost seemed like that strange little book in his pocket were growing cold.

Carefully, Franky moved to set Ciya back down upon her feet. Beaming at her, his hand pat her head and straightened a few stray strands. He turned his head and placed a finger to his mouth as he looked towards Vivica, giving a wink. The message should be obvious to them both. 'Ciya doesn't get to know the reason for the outburst right now!'

**PhoenixAshes**

With the purr being the only reply she got, Ciya just hugged tighter to him. It seemed she'd have to settle for that, as she did she just focused on how solid he held up under the pressure her arms gave while enjoying the slight sway. Once she was back on her feet, the pat caused a soft giggle from her as she slightly leaned into the contact.

Vivica shook her head from a distance and felt the rose-quartz rune between her fingers until Franky signaled her. With a wink and a mock-salute with two fingers from the outer corner of her left eyebrow she gave a promise for her silence.

"I feel a bit like I'm being left out of something..."Ciya spoke in soft confusion, her bright eyes blinking slowly as she watched the interaction of the other two.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh one day he would tell Ciya what wonderful taste in friends she had. He gave his usual broad smile towards Vivica, eyes gleaming in thanks. It wasn't time to say anything about this yet. Of course, he knew that she felt that way entirely and he... Well, naturally it was apparent. But he wasn't ready to say anything openly yet. No. Something held him back, nagging at the back of his head. Like the instinct to avoid pain and danger to survive.

Huh. Strange. Why did he just compare Ciya to such things? When he thought of her, it was the complete opposite. No death. No danger. Only life, joy, and happiness. He would mull over it later. For now he was content with moving close to Ciya, his arm very carefully wrapping over her shoulders to pull her close as they walked. He made sure that their pace matched Vivica so they could all move together, side by side. It almost felt like a small family, wandering the forest until they could go home.

For the rest of the day, Franky was oddly affectionate towards his little pixie friend. He lingered close to her, almost clingy in his actions. He 'spoke' to her and Vivica through the day through the small booklet, writing quickly and cheerfully to tell them jokes and stories that he'd gathered through his contact with other mystical beings. He fussed over them, making them rest several times that day before moving onwards. They would be nearing their destination soon, he told them. One more night sleeping on the ground and then they would have a close friend of his hosting them in his home. He hinted that both Ciya and Vivica would like it for different reasons, giving a coy smirk but not giving more information further than that.

At last, when the sun had tired itself and the night had given it time to rest, they settled. The fire was crafted and once again through its warm and unsettling shadows. Also like last time, Franky took a safe distance to sit himself down and smiled. He had found a strange fruit tree not far away and had gathered many of the delicious 'squishys' from it. True to the term, the fruit looked almost like a mix between a lemon and apple with a soft exteror that allowed one to easily bite through it. He asked if Vivica could test it somehow to make sure it wasn't poisonious- the last thing he wanted to do was give his friends that!

Reaching into his frayed jacket, he brought out his notebook. The strange little black book had been itching at his mind all day for some reason, cold under the otherwise warm haze. In the low lighting, he squinted hard as he opened it and began to flip through the pages as he had so many times before. He wasn't sure what he was looking for... It was the same things as always. Strange words and phrases. Some bits he understood due to it being in plain tongue or because he had learned the terms from Vivica's books. Still... He looked towards the back, with the dark magic. The curses and ways to have revenge. This seemed... This seemed almost fake. Almost staged, as if someone knew another might be looking for 'bad' magic. There was something else here, hidden from him. So close, he could feel it. Bah.

**PhoenixAshes**

Even with the attentiveness and his lightening of the harder parts of travel the girls were happy to make campy by the end of the day. The witch wouldn't admit it outwardly, but Franky's distance from the fire was slightly appreciated. As charming as he was he'd been a tad more invasive after the reveal of Ciya's emotions, and even though the close clinging aspects weren't directed at the witch she was starting to get a little edgy about them. It wasn't so much that they were happening --she'd given up on that one long ago-- it was more the amount of it. Ciya however didn't seem to have minded a bit; at the moment she was soaking in the generous warmth flame provided while savoring the last few sections she had of the fruit that had been found. It was completely safe to eat, as both she and Vivica had to reassure Franky to absolute certainty before anything was actually bit into.

By the time Vivica had relaxed and stretched out on the ground as well, Ciya had turned her back to the flames, the cooler side now taking in the heat. The change in positions revealing Franky's pensive study. She would have crossed the short and cold distance to him, but for the moment, the pixie still needed what the fire gave. Her back and legs a little tense still from the walking--well, partially limping in her case.

**FrankenSoul**

One good thing about not feeling pain anymore was the fact that he couldn't have anymore headaches. He was sure he'd have a very large one now at the rate his thoughts were going. His mind did that sometimes, racing ahead of him and branching out in so many directions. It was almost too much. He huffed, snapping his book shut for now. He wasn't going to crack the secrets it held tonight. He felt it had dampened his mood somewhat too, as only it could.

He caught Ciya's movement and gave her a smile. She seemed to be allowing her legs to rest, turned towards the heat of the dancing sparks. Good. He hoped it didn't hurt too much. Something bugged him at the back of his mind, almost itching at the distance and 'silence' between them. He couldn't really speak through his writing from a place so dark, unless he was closer to the fire. A part of him had noticed Vivica's slow annoyance with him remaining so close to Ciya and felt a ping of emotion in his chest from it. Some sort of mix between deep worry of being too much and the need to remain close to friends. It was just that he had gone so long without contact or affection, when he was given it he merely couldn't get enough.

He began to debate on moving closer, balancing the emotions and trying to allow one to win over the other, when he paused and tilted his head. A loud, crashing sound vibrated outwards from the sky as if a great battle where taking place. He noticed then that the sky had gone black, no moon or stars. Oh. Oh that had been thunder, and those were storm clouds coming in.

**PhoenixAshes**

While it was still quiet, Ciya reached her closest to earth hand, the one her head was comfortably leaning on, out to him trying to entice his indecision to a particular one. The crack however jolted her out of the action. Vivica as well sat up quickly.

"Oh great..." The witch started, cursing something else under her breath.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh. Oh she wanted him to come closer. And then that sound had ruined it. Darn sound!
He frowned upwards heavily, as if to scold the sky for having such bad timing. That wasn't even remotely fair! Well, wait. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. Maybe the rain would pass them by and- he saw the streaks of water beginning to hit the ground, beginning to come faster and faster and in greater numbers. He made a groaning growl, moving to his feet and glancing towards Vivica as if asking her what they should do. They couldn't stay here. In the lower side of the mountains, the rain would surely cause it to be extremely muddy if not flooded. Maybe they could make it through the pass if they moved fast enough.

**PhoenixAshes**

Stuggling up, Ciya went to one of the bags and quickly dug through it. "Here!" With a bit of a tug she pulled out cloak-like garments made from a canvas material, covered in a waxy substance. As the other woman moved toward her friend, the pixie tossed one to the witch who promptly put it on.

There was a call of thanks from Vivica who was already consulting the smooth gemstone runes. "We're going to have to move!" She announced, looking toward Franky in answer to his question. "It's going to pour here for--" There were a few tosses as she narrowed the answer of something. "At least half a day."

**FrankenSoul**

That's what he was waiting for. Time to move then! Jumping to his feet, he dashed forward as he grabbed and stashed anyhing he could find. They didn't have too much, but still by the time they were ready to move the rain was hitting the ground harder and harder. Geez if this kept up they might get flooded out before they could reach the pass.

He debated for half a second before once again moving Ciya into his arms. Her limp would slow them down, and it was dangerous for her to try and move quickly through the mud with that leg. He looked towards Vivica, evidently debating something before nealing down to offer what he couldn't say just then. She was welcome to ride on his back and he could try to run quickly enough, or she could try to spring with him to get there in time. Either way, they needed to get moving now.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya held to him easily moving a bit of her cloak so it covered him too, at least a little. Even if it didn't matter she still felt he shouldn't get too wet.

Vivica hesitated, but the large raindrops were quite the convincing argument. "This won't become a habit." She promised, as she caved and took his offer and held to him as well. "We just need to get to higher ground and then I'll get off, ok?"

**FrankenSoul**

Franky felt the edge of his mouth twtich up somewhat as Ciya attempted to shield him. Yes, unneeded but he still found it touching and a bit adorable.

He waited for Vivica's decision, watching to see if her face would reveal any of her own internal struggle until finally she decided to accept. He smiled widely, finding mirth even now. She sounded as if this were somehow an inconvience to him. If anything, he had fun with it. As if he were caring two little children around. Squinting against the rain and leaning against the wind that had begun to howl, his body lurched into movement. Franky normally held back. It was what he did. But when he wished, he could do many things. Moving at fast speeds that rivaled even Slick was one of them. He was careful to keep his arms still and shoulders square so not to jostle his dear friends though, his shoes making a sucking sound as they pushed through the mud. He worried for a moment that they'd be pulled away.

Yes, it was becoming more apparent that the weather was a full storm. He moved as quickly as he could while he was careful, the world, rain, and wind passing by in a blur. The only indication that he was affected by this weather was the occasional twitch at the sudden sound of thunder, having followed the strangely beautiful arches of light that bent around the heavens.

As he moved, climbing up the sloping ground, he could see a bundle of lights nestled against the safety of one of the mountains. Homes and markets, close to what looked like a river. He felt a shiver run down his spine but didn't pause to think of the village he had witnessed, doing his best to reach the pass. It wasn't enough.

Arriving, he knew he was too late before he had fully taken in the scene. The water rose to his knees, sluggish for now but growing faster. The walls of earth around the pass looked threatening and unstable, the route long and dangerous as if it too had turned into a river that would only grow deeper. There was no way they could make it through this pass. If the quickening water didn't rise further and sweep them away, then the danger of mudslides would most likely take them out before they reached safety.

Frozen where he stood, a whine began to build in Franky's throat. He wasn't sure what to do. His 'branching mind' failed him, unable to think of a way to keep his friends safe. Perhaps if he could find them somewhere safe to stay, he could attempt to go alone and fetch help. Or maybe not. If he were caught in a mud slide, he wouldn't die. No, he'd merely be buried under the earth where no one would ever find him, aware but unable to cry for help. The thought gave him a sudden spike of fear. Then what was he supposed to do?

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch had put her face against his shoulder as he went, hiding it from the wind and wet as they went. Ciya took up a similar position but when Franky became still, her wide, honey colored eyes lifted to him. His distress, made clear by the whine sound, unsettled her a bit and she held slightly tighter.

**FrankenSoul**

What was he supposed... Okay. Okay, yes. Don't panic. He glanced down towards Ciya, giving a stitched smile to reassure both her and himself. His mind began to work again and reminded him of the bundle of lights from before. A village. A human village, most likely. The thought made him shudder. It didn't matter right now. He just needed to get these two somewhere safe. He couldn't verbally speak, but he hoped they trusted him as he turned and began moving back from where they had come. There, up ahead. The bundle of lights within homes, fires kept alive on this terrible night. His feet pressed against something more solid as he moved towards it. A stone road. There they could spend the night and longer if the storm decided to linger. His footsteps slowed until finally he stopped. Yes this was close enough. They could walk to the village from here. Carefully he moved to place Ciya on her feet, then knelt down to slide Vivica from his back.

"Hmm!" He pointed his hand ahead towards the village, hoping they understood his intentions.

**PhoenixAshes**

Once firmly on unsoggy ground, both women looked to the lights he pointed at. Vivica's dark eyes seemed to brighten in thankfulness, but Ciya turned back to face Franky immediately. "But what about you?" She asked, the words rushing from her.

The gratefulness faded from the witch when she realized, this was more than likely a human township--for Franky to go with them would be problematic at best, dangerous at worst.

**FrankenSoul**

There were those looks he had been wanting to see. He beamed, giving a low giggle and motioned for them to get going. The storm wasn't going to get any safer for them out here. But of course Ciya didn't like his train of thought, and Vivica caught on to what he himself was thinking. It could go bad, quickly. He gave a small shrug, his hair plastered to his head and his clothes drenched on his body. One could see some of the stiches pressing up through the wet material. He didn't look too human, so even if he didn't see anything there was a chance they wouldn't react kindly to him.

He looked around and swept his arm, gesturing that he could try just staying out here. He'd try to find some hole in the ground and bunker down so he wasn't struck by lightning or washed away into a river. He paused, frozen in the midst of the motion as a thought occured to him. Huffing loudly, he turned and looked at their strange cloaks. He gestured towards one of them then made a motion as if flipping a hood over his head. Then he moved to cover his eyes with his hands.

Perhaps if he could hide under an extra cloak, and keep his eyes shut, he'd be okay if he came with them? He really didn't like the idea of being out here alone, but then again it could end very badly if something went wrong. He clicked his teeth together, concerned but torn. He looked to Vivica again, seeing what she would think. She seemed to be a natural leader in Franky's mind, what with her magic and ability to think of things even his frantic mind couldn't.

**PhoenixAshes**

"I'm not leaving you out here." Ciya replied defiantly to his sweeping motion. It was too dangerous, even for him. Her attention went to his other motions. Ah,yes!

"Wasn't there another?" Vivica asked, the pixie, already reaching in her own hood for the scarf like band she had tied around her head. It was just wide enough for a blindfold.

The pixie nodded and searched through the bag again, having to feel further than she had before. It was wedged under something else.

**FrankenSoul**

The edge of his mouth twitched upon Ciya's reluctance to leave him outside, and he found he appreciated her even more. She was very eager at his other suggestion, but he wasn't exactly comfortable with the thought himself. All those people, so close together, with him among them... A shudder forced its way down his spine that had nothing to do with the icy rain. It might end very badly for all involved. Sometimes, he wondered if Ciya and Vivica thought he was worth such risk. Apparently so, considering neither flinched at the mention of covering him and bringing him along.

He began to kneel before Vivica and gestured for Vivica to quickly tie the scarf around his head. With his clumsy fingers, he might rip it or be unable to do it. They needed to hurry though and get them both out of this rain. At the back of his mind, he worried for Ciya's wounded leg and hoped this weather wasn't making it ache.

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch's fingers were swift and her knots secure and as soon as her work was done the dry warmth of the extra cloak surrounded Franky by Ciya's assistance. This smaller woman checked the scarf-blindfold to be sure it was in place still before taking his hands as a signal for him to get to his feet again.

"Maybe we can pass you off as a see-er. No one would question it."

Vivica nodded to this. "That would cause less suspicion about the covered eyes and his stitches."

**FrankenSoul**

He felt slightly like a child, being dressed by his parents. Shouldering the cloak around him, the pressure of it surrounding him did offer some degree of comfort. As did Ciya as she took his hands, helping him move to his feet. He didn't release her, his anxiety about what they were doing forcing a few very low whines from him that could barely be heard over the storm.

A seer? He wasn't sure about that. Maybe he could just... literally find a rock to hide under. Oh yeah, he would still look strange with his skin, eyes, and stiches. But that didn't matter now. He began to move forward in the direction he remembered the human settlement was in, tugging Ciya with him. The message was obvious. 'Let's hurry and get you both to safety.'

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya tugged him back gently, since in his worried haste, Franky was blindly headed for a huge puddle. "You should probably let me lead."

She changed direction slightly so they weren't walking though the muddy deep.

Vivica followed along closely,searching for a building still lit and inviting for those like them stuck in the downpour.

**FrankenSoul**

In this small town, the villagers had seen the storm coming long ago. They had lived with the shapes of the mountains surrounding them for many years, and they had learned to adjust to the changes in pressure and temperature that warned them of oncoming storms.

Quickly they had retreated into their homes and businesses, windows and doors shut and locked. The children whispered and shivered as the cold winds pushed through their homes, the freezing rain pounding against their thin roofs as the gods battled high above. A storm this sever hadn't come for years. The only thing the good people of this town could do was crouch down in their homes and wait.

Though, one woman at this moment remained outside. She clung to the open door of a building, peering out into the rain and calling a name loudly that was quickly taken and hidden by the onpour of the rain. Anxiously, she attempted to peer against the dark to look for the outline of the one she waited for. The building she clung to was rather large and well-made, a rare two-story with multiple rooms. An inn, judging by the wooden sign that creaked and threatened to fall, labeling it "The Monsters Lullaby".

She couldn't see anything through this storm! Frustration built up in her chest. The inn was near the edge of the town, very close to the road. She had spent many days looking down it and waiting, but she suspected no one would travel it tonight. Or... perhaps they would. Her heart stopped at the outline of a figure... three of them. Oh. So it wasn't... Oh, but they were travelers! Lifting the lantern she held, her voice rose over the roar of the storm.

"Hello! Strangers, over here!"

She used the light to gesture them to come towards her. By their statures, two of them were women and one more was very tall. Male? For sure an older one. Still, he held himself like a child, crouching low and clutching onto the hands of one of the women and leaning to press his face against her shoulder. His posture almost seemed frightened. Perhaps moving about in this terrible storm had invoked the emotion.

**PhoenixAshes**

The sudden wave of light and the flicker light and shadow over the figure clinging to the door was a welcome sight for the two who could see it. "Hello!" Vivica was the first to return the call, her hand raising in acknowledgement and thankful greeting.

Ciya gripped gently at Franky's hand, her head turning to whisper to him. "There's a light calling for us." She told him, very careful to not mention the human in the doorway. She wasn't sure if it would actually help if she didn't mention it and instead gave another image for his mind to latch onto, but it seemed worth a try. "We'll be safe and dry soon. It looks like an inn."

They were soon before the woman with the lantern, the outer layers of all three dripping.

[7:46:30 PM] Inukins: Franky merely allowed a high pitched whine to revert forth from his chest. His chest was already beginning to move faster as if he were trying to grasp more air. His mind continued to replay the thought, 'Safe, safe, safe, safe....'
Still, he was trembling. The very thought of what they were moving too had crushed the warmth of his chest. He might have turned and run, if not for the steady hand of Ciya tugging him along. He pressed his lips tightly together, concentrating on her words as she spoke to him. There was no need to worry if he would outstep her. His movements were hardly steps, tiny and hesitant. Perhaps this really had been a bad idea.

The woman at the door squinted as they moved towards her. Her bright smile was welcoming, her eyes kind and nonthreatening. As they neared her light, briefly her eyes grazed over Franky's face and for a moment a spark of emotion crossed her features. Though, it wasn't fear and rather more like surprise. It passed, and she waved them inside with a, "Hurry now, hurry!"

Inside was what one might expect of an inn. Dark boards were used for the walls and floor, worn by the steps of hundreds of travellers. The room they entered into was of average size, stairs spiralling upwards at the back to the right and left to a second floor. It looked to be a tavern also, a few tables set up and a bar built in the the right with assorted bottles and drinks behind it. More doors were placed on the ground floor, one placed very close to the bar that seemed the correct place to lead into a kitchen.
The woman closed the door with a groan, the door protesting against her and attempting to jump from her fingers and slam back open. She wouldn't be letting that storm in here though! With a thud it settled shut, heavy and safe against the beating rain. The woman let out a relieved sigh, her quick smile back on her face as she turned her drenched head towards them.
"There we are, much better! That storm's a bad one, far worse than we've seen in a long while."

She was pretty, in a way. She held an average, homely face that seemed perfect for that of a mother. Almond eyes that never stayed still took in all, a playful and curious smile always upon her lips. Her hair was the darker color of straw, but its style was for now simply plastered against her head. She moved towards the bar, her footsteps making squishing sounds as she left a trail of water. "I was waiting for my husband to return. He goes on a business trip at the worst times! It seems he's just remained in the other town though. Smart fellow, but also foolish as I'm going to give him a stern word for making me worry!"
Her tone was friendly as she placed her lantern upon the bar and turned towards them, mirth present in her eyes.

**PhoenixAshes**

At her beckoning, Ciya squeezed Franky's hand reassuringly. "We'll be safe soon. Safe and dry."

Once all were safe and the door was closed both of the traveling women sighed in relief.

Vivica was about to speak thanks when the one who'd let them in spoke at some length.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh she had done it again, hadn't she? This seemed to be a shy group. The tall one especially, who shivered and clung to his much smaller friend. She moved a hand through her wet hair, allowing a light laugh to move forth from her chest.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to blabber on. It's my job to make conversation. So I suppose you need rooms for the night, yes? And gracious, I've yet to introduce myself. I'm Anne, but everyone just calls me Aunty."

**PhoenixAshes**

"Oh,no, It's fine." Vivica was the first to respond, seeming to take responsibility for setting everything up and the direct interaction. The sooner they got Franky into a room the better. "Nice to meet you, Aunty," She tested the name out. "I'd shake your hand but it'll feel like ice to you." She returned the warmth that Anne bad been showing with a smile of her own.

**FrankenSoul**

"Oh my, I imagine so!"

She responded, suddenly remembering that these poor people were surely freezing. She glanced to the back of the room, where a fireplace had been placed. "If you'd like, you may have drink and food and I'll start a fire-"

At the word, the tall, gray skinned man literally jumped and made an inhuman, strangled sound. Aunty paused, eyes widening and sympathy entering them. More gently she asked, "Or if you'd like, you may take keys and rest. I'm sure it's been a long journey. I won't charge a thing, I'd feel as if I'm taking advantage of you."

It wasn't as if they'd planned to stay here tonight, in this weather. They were only victims of fate.

Franky clung all the tighter of Ciya, his grasp unintentionally becoming stronger and stronger. He had had to stop shaking, no matter how much he had told himself to stop. He just KNEW that the voice he was hearing came from a human, and that they were in an inn, in a town surrounded by the rotten species. When the monster had spoken of the hurtful light, of 'fire', he had almost jerked his blindfold off and bolted for the door. Maybe he should really just go find a cave or something to hide in...

**PhoenixAshes**

The reaction Franky had at the word fire startled the pixie as well and the sudden action knocked back her hood. "I think the key idea is best, Aunty." Ciya took up the reply this time,her voice slightly strained from the hold Franky had on her now. Clearly, this was almost too much for him.

"He's not really too comfortable with strangers." Vivica jumped in, pushing back her hood as well to make the sudden fall of Ciya's seem less suspicious. "It'd be best to settle first, then we'll worry about everything else, if that's all right."

When Vivica pulled the attention again, Ciya shifted a bit so she could pull Franky's head close enough to her own, so he could hear her alone. In the same gesture her small hand pressed over his ear that he was probably hearing Anne directly from, the fabric from the hood pressed gently against it and muffling sound. "Franky." She whispered. "Just focus on me for now, okay? Just listen to what I'm saying." If she could calm him enough, they'd be able to get into the room and stay put.

**FrankenSoul**

Ah. Poor fellow. Aunty nodded and moved behind the bar. A shelf was present with many keys hanging down from hooks, and her hands began to pluck a few. "I assume two rooms? Or will it be three? In any case, most of the place is empty so you can have them next to each other. If you want to switch rooms or need food or anything else, I'll be here for most of the night." She turned and moved to hand the keys to Vivica, who could distribute them as she liked. The keys were ingraved with numbers. Rooms 6 and 7. She gestured towards the right staircase. "That way to the rooms. There's a hallway, and your rooms are on the right end of it. Again, if you have questions or need me, I'll be right here."

What was he going to do, he was going to get hurt, they were going to get hurt, people were going to die and they were going to come after him and- Aaah... Ah. Ciya. Her gestures held an immediate effect. Franky's form began to slowly still, his 'breathing' slowing. His sweet, pure friend in a village of monsters. Her gentle voice soothed the harsh edges of his fear, blocking out the bad and allowing him to get a grip on his thoughts. The tight grasp on her was at once slackened, a ping of guilt in his chest. He hoped he hadn't squeezed too hard. He allowed a low huff to emit from his throat to show he had heard her.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica followed Aunty Anne but stayed infront of the bar respectfully, repling to her question of how many rooms with "two". They probably could have delt with one but, she was going to need to drop the elvin-glamour spell soon to recast, so best to do that on her own. Carefully she took the keys, "Thank you. Are you sure we can't pay?"

His sound and let up of his grasp sent some relief through her; it was a little easier to breathe now although where he had squeezed had a sensitive edge to it, but it was coming but it was going away quickly. They weren't quite out of danger yet. "It'll be just you, Viv and I soon. Safe. Safe behind doors." Her free hand rubbed his shoulders gently. "Just until the storm passes, then we'll go as easily as we got here. Meet back up with Slick and keep going." The pixie dared not turn her head, should Franky notice, but she wanted to know the state of things behind her. It was difficult to both talk and listen at the same time.

**FrankenSoul**

Safe... She knew what words to say to make him feel better. The pressure of her hand on his should helped even more so. The world seemed to suddenly become dull and unimportant as he listened to her, steering his mind away from thoughts that might cause trouble. He still remained hunched and close to her though, inside her circle of comfort.

"I'm very sure," Aunty promised her with a wink. "You all just get comfortable and safe, and that'll be payment enough."

She turned her head towards the odd 'couple'. Or maybe even sibling, though from what she had seen they weren't related. "Just take care of your tall friend. Poor fellow seems to be feeling very ill tonight. Hmm. And don't worry." She looked back towards Vivica, a strange understanding present in her tone. "I won't tell anyone about him."

She had caught more than a fair share of his face when he had first arrived, grey skin, stitches and all. Though her trade involved talking, that did not mean she was going to spread potentially harmful gossip.

**PhoenixAshes**

"Thank you." The appreciation in the witch's face was more than apparent. From the wave of room charge to her silence about Franky. "We'll look after him. Well, more Ciya will." She smiled as she glanced back at the other two and then turned back. "Really, thank you so much."

**FrankenSoul**

Aunty's crooked smile was her only reply as she waved for them to go on. It was her pleasure to help them. It was the least she could do.

The rooms, much like the tavern-ish setting they had previously been waiting in, were warm and homey. Each held fairly sized beds, each spread with thick and soft blankets. A table and dresser was placed to the side, unopened bottles of ale placed there for guests along with loaves of bread. They seemed fresh enough, as Aunty placed new ones each morning and afternoon.

As promised, they were right next to each other too. Franky had some difficulty climbing the stairs with a blindfold on, but of course was able to manage it with a little help. When he was led into the room, he promptly ran his face directly into a wall with a thick sounding thud.

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch flinched at the sound and gave an empathetic sound of pain. She’d waited in the hall to make sure everything was okay with the other two before she went to the next-door room, apparently that was in good conscience. However this scenario wasn’t really in need of her help.

The pixie and turned back quickly at the sound, an expression of concern flashing immediately on her features as she rushed over. “Are you okay?” Gently she guided Franky away from the wall and then stopped him so she could reach up and push back his hood to make sure no stitch had come loose, the hand that had flicked back the hood came back to his face to lightly feel the side that had gotten most impact, checking for any structure damage from the thump. While the pixie was sure Franky was sturdier than her worry warranted, that hit sounded hard.

**FrankenSoul**
What was this all about now? He was being looked after like he was a child. Oh. He had been so eager to get away from the monsters, he had run straight into a wall. So THAT'S what the sound and pressure on his face had been. No wonder.

Slowly, he smiled both in embarrassment and affection as Ciya's hand pressed against his face. He turned against it, reaching up with his own large, bulky hands to keep hers there. He wondered if her skin was as warm as the bundle in his chest. Unknowingly, his own was clammy and cold. "Hmmm," He hummed happily, the corners of his mouth upturned. He seemed rather content where he was, though he wondered if he could look again. Moving a hand away from her, he tugged at the edge of the cloth around his face, asking, 'Is this still needed?'

**PhoenixAshes**

From in the hall, Vivica sighed in faux disapproval, an amused smile across her lips as she lifted her hand with her key to signal the pixie that was where she’d be. These two would be fine.
Even though his hand and face were far colder than her hand, his affectionate reaction was quite warming. The pixie smiled coyly, right up until the witch’s amused sound was heard, earning an acknowledging but dismissive wave. With her attention back to Franky’s questioning signal, she duly replied, “You can take it off now. It’s just the three of us on this floor.”

Vivica's sound only made Franky smile all the more, as he knew what it was in reply too. Ah, at last he could remove his eye covering. Reluctantly, he released Ciya to pull it from his face and blinked a few times until the world swam into focus. His smiled towards her for a moment longer before casting his gaze along the room. What a cute little room! Even the rain of the storm that beat against their window, so harsh and dangerous before, was reduced to dull noise and wet smears down the glass.

His fingers were practically itching as he whipped his booklet, the pages for the most part dry, and began to write. 'I like it in here! It's cozy! And better yet, dry!'

“It is cute.” The pixie smiled brightly at the eagerness she could see in his writing. “But dry is definitely the best part.” As she said this she turned and pulled off the cloak, making sure not to fling any drops at him as she did. Even though the outer layer had done it’s job the rain had gotten the rest of her a bit damp in between the time it started coming down and when she’d gotten it on. The sudden exposure of that dampness to the air that, although warm and dry, still caused a quick chill through her.

**FrankenSoul**

He beamed towards her. The moment they had begun to move away from the woman downstairs, he had begun to feel far, far better. Now alone up here, safe and dry, the fear he had experienced was gone. For now.

He just had to keep his mind off the immediate buildings around them. Instead, his eyes squinted as he looked at her leg and back up at her damp form. She must be exhausted and cold. Oh. A sudden thought entered his mind and actually caused him to falter for a moment. Oh. Oh gosh. He might have blushed if he could.

Um... Hm. He began to write before shyly holding it up towards her. 'I hope your leg is feeling okay. And would you like to get changed into something more dry? I can wait outside while you do that.'

**PhoenixAshes**

Knowing the cold she felt was caused by, she picked a bit at the fabric of her shirt in small pinches, not revealing anything but trying to see if getting a bit off her skin would help. Sadly, it seemed to only chill the places that she lifted it from. His sudden change in disposition, from happiness to the sudden bashful state he seemed to be in caught her attention and she looked at the page he was cautiously showing. "I think I'm improving," She answered as she read, "hopefully It'll sto--" Her words stopped short and a sudden heat flushed her cheeks. "Um, I probably should, but I don't want to have to force you out of the room.." She looked about, her gaze landing on one corner of the room, a dressing screen was folded out, the panels in zig-zag state to keep it steady. "That could work."

**FrankenSoul**

Well, he couldn't help wanting to pinch her cheeks and tease her for the way she changed color. And he might have done it, if he wasn't so caught up in his own embarrassment. Why did he suddenly feel so shy? He was ready to go outside if needed. If they were alone on this floor except Vivica, then he most likely wouldn't see any humans...

She pointed to a strange screen type thing. Was he supposed to get behind that...? Well, okay. He felt in a way honored that she would let him stay in the room. Then again, he was sure he didn't have a pervert bone in his body, and he would fight anyone who would dare to try and break her privacy.

He lifted his hands and gave the 'ok' sign, one finger against the other, and moved to place himself behind the screen. For extra precaution, his back was turned away from her and his face towards the wall. And once again he couldn't really 'talk' to her from here.

He placed his face in his hands, completely mortified about his sudden bashful nature. A thought occurred to him. Had someone else ever seen Ciya like that? Had anyone else ever been so close to her and wanted to protect her so? Oh gods stop thinking such things, stop it! It wasn't as if he could just ask anyhow. That would be far too much to simply blurt out on paper.

**PhoenixAshes**

As he moved toward the screen a hint of confusion came over her face. Wasn't it clear that she was supposed to be the one going over there? Apparently not. By the time the bewilderment passed Franky had already crossed the room and settled in. "Um...Franky," The pixie giggled, the sound going off in a small fit as she tired to hide it behind her hand. "That's where I'm supposed to be." Another soft peel of chime-like laughter intermingled with her words. "It's not like I need the whole room."

**FrankenSoul**

What? Oh! Oh no! Aaaarrgh! He had completely misunderstood. He tilted his head down as she spoke, swearing he could feel even his grey face warming. He didn't even know what the screen was for, much less that she was the one who wanted behind it. Woops. He had a basic knowledge of human things, but it hadn't covered this. Slowly he stood and covered his face with his hands, trudging out from behind his hiding place and towards the opposite corner of the room now. If he had been horrified before, now he was wishing they would stick him back in the ground

**PhoenixAshes**.

Finally being able to suppress her giggles behind her hand, her other one caught his arm gently before he could completely cross back to the opposite, adjacent corner. “It was an honest mistake, you don’t have to hide.” There was a reassuring sweetness to her words that was accompanied by alight push of his hair from his forehead, which was a bit stringy from being wet—quite wet actually. It wasn’t dripping any more but, still wet. Then again he had been in the rain without cover for longer than she and Vivica had. Instead of reacting too severely to the realization, she just took her hand back and wiped it at her hip before returning it to the way she’d had it on his cheek just moments earlier, when he held it there.

“While I’m there you should probably dry off a bit too—somehow.”

That brought up another problem. He’d need a towel and—at that realization another came right on it’s heels and she blushed again, a deeper color in her cheeks now. He’d probably need something dry to put on too. Especially since if he sat on anything in this state he’d probably get it wet. Maybe the fire might have been a good idea? They all could have sat by it and dried. No, no, what was she thinking? He’d been worried at the mere mention of it, let alone sitting by it…

**FrankenSoul**

Oooh why was she stopping him from going to the corner, he just wanted to hide away peacefully while she changed clothes. He knew he wasn't the brightest sometimes, but that had been an entirely idiotic moment on his part. Honest mistake... Ah. Maybe. As always, her words were like sweet honey. Still, he 'ruffed' lowly in his throat in reply, looking at her and lifting his eyebrows high like some sort of dripping puppy.
He came to the realization that he was soaked the same moment she did, bringing her hand away and having water on it. Oops. Again. He hadn't really thought of that. The insides of his jacket had been dry enough to protect his books, so he hadn't considered the outside. He once again pushed his face against her touch, closing his eyes as he did so and finally allowing his strange smile to return. He should dry off? Well, he was thinking he could just sit somewhere for the night and drip-dry. He didn't have any spare clothes, and the cold wetness didn't bother him.

Now it was his turn to notice her embarrassment and his smile grew as wide as it could, very white teeth visible just under his lips. His hands moved up and very carefully and lightly pinched her cheeks as he was now clearly smirking and giving her a playful look. Why the shyness? She had already seen him without half his clothes on already, at least. He made a low chortling sound as he laughed, merriment clear. Aww she looked so cute! It was much better when others were flustered instead of himself!

**PhoenixAshes**

The way he'd immediately responded to her touch, as if eager for such affection, brought her gaurd down, and then the contribution of embarrassment shattered her defenses completely, leaving her open to the pinching. " 'ey!" She protested but laughed immediately after. "Oh, you. I should have guessed you were up to something." It was impossible for her to be too mad at him. There was something rather adorable in the way he could shift so quickly from perceived shame to playfulness.

**FrankenSoul**

Whaaat? He was only teasing her! Nothing wrong with that! The chortle returned once again, and he reached up to muss her hair before reluctantly beginning to pull away from her. He made a motion for her to go and get dressed then, so she wouldn't be so miserable in those wet clothes. He'd figure something out for himself. First thing was first. Slowly, his clunky fingers began to undo the buttons of his coat to open it entirely. Casting it aside out of the way so no one would trip on it, he was now bare from the waist up. His pants were still wet, and he found himself glad that he had no shoes to worry about. He wasn't about to strip off his britches, so he would manage with just this. Grabbing his writing journal from his jacket, he moved to sit with his back against the bed and breathed lowly. What a long day they had. Perhaps, if Ciya and Vivica wanted, they could try staying longer. Franky wouldn't mind too much to just hide here and let them rest. Of course, the storm might not give them much choice either if it defied Vivica's forecast and continued longer than tonight...

**PhoenixAshes**

“Okay.” She replied to his motion, making a stop at her bag before heading over to the screen corner. It’d be good to get out these. Making sure she was completely out of sight—which was easy considering that the screen was just taller than she was-- she stripped down and laid out the wet things over the top of the screen so they might dry. As she was redressing the Pixie looked about the small area. Directly to the wall side there was a small stand, a bowl and pitcher on top. Sort of a rustic touch she figured. However, as she was pulling an arm through her dry shirt, curiosity got the better of her and she stood on tip-toe so she could look in the pitcher. Surprisingly, there was water. Clean and completely still in the container, shadowed by the pitcher sides. “Huh,” She mused, hopefully too softly for Franky to hear. “What do you know.” Wait…if there was actual water here then maybe the stand, which had a door on it’s front might have towels. Again, curiosity hit and she checked only to grin in triumph. Now Franky wouldn’t have to deal with being completely wet for however long it would have taken him to dry. Although… Since she was fully dressed again and with a towel in hand she peaked around the screen to her room companion. Maybe it didn’t bother him as much as she was thinking it did. He did tell her when they met that he couldn’t really feel much. Still, something just felt wrong about leaving him without a way to dry.

**FrankenSoul**

Franky was preoccupied at that moment. He had drawn his knees up to his chest with his bottom on the floor and the firm pressure of the bed against his back. The writing journal Vivica had given him was perched against his legs and he was seemingly writing something and concentrating on that. He was, however, starting to form a little puddle from his hair. His stitches were tight and unaffected by the storm, so that much was a relief.

Catching movement from the side of his eye, he looked up to grin towards Ciya as she peered at him. His head tilted to the side inquisitively, wondering what was taking her so long.

**PhoenixAshes**

Seeing that he’d noticed her, she smiled quickly to cover the pondering look she’d had. As she stepped out she cleverly hid the well-folded towel behind her back and crossed to him. “I have something.” Suddenly the pixie’s smile became mischievous and she revealed the towel with a quick motion of her hand, letting it open as she did. Then, in a seamless motion she let it drop over his head just so his face could be seen but it completely covered his hair and draped over his shoulders. Well, it didn’t cover all the hair; some how the bits she’d moved earlier had fallen back to where they were. Either way, the way she’d allowed it to fall, and the fact that it was white, sort of made him look like a nun. A grey, stitched nun. Sister Franky. The thought made her giggle.

**FrankenSoul**

Wait what was this now? Well she was fully clothed now in new cloth, so that was good. She... had her hands behind her back though. He prepared himself for some sort of surprise, so his reaction wasn't too strong when she 'attacked'. He sat still as the white THING settled over his head, temporarily blocking his view in a whirl of white. His response was to freeze and stare at her, his lips curled upwards in a smile that said, 'Really?'

Oh. Okay so she wanted to play it this way. He could play it this way. Slowly, he moved to set his wiritng journal aside and pushed it out of the way before turning and looking back at her. He made sure to keep his head straight so to keep the towel where it was.

In his own sudden motion that revealed the speed he could use if he pushed, his arms circled under Ciya's body and legs and brought her up against his chest. All the while he grinned and a growl came forth, extremely loud and playful as he spun in place quickly several times.

"Grrraaah!"

Finally, he turned to collaspe on the bed with her in tow, having her fall and bounce next to him as he blew locks of stringy hair from his face and laughed loudly from his throat. The towel had remained through it all until the last instance, where it now lay a few inches from where his head was.

**PhoenixAshes**

His smile made her laugh gain some strength, however there was something in it that felt like a warning as well. So, it slowed and the brightness of her expression dulled as it gave way to worried anticipation. As he put his journal down, she knew she was in for it. “Uh-oh…” There was a small move back in attempt to retreat but he was far to fast, and the swiftness with which he scooped her up earned a somewhat startled laugh from her. Her arms went about him, holding tight as he spun, unsure of what was next until she landed on softness. Her laugh returned with his. She’d landed curled but now that the bouncing had stopped she remained where she lay, slim and fragile looking limbs stretched about her. Noticing his blowing she shifted so she could reach and move the strands away for him. “There.” The same motion had given her opportunity to get the towel again, but rather than continue playing as they had, she simply brought it up to the ends of his hair where most of the wetness was sitting and tried to press out the excess. “Better?”

**FrankenSoul**

Caring for him again, like always. He hadn't thanked her before for helping him when they were close to that woman. Well, not on paper at least. Drying his hair, he was almost tempted to think that he could feel the motions very clearly, along with the gentleness of which she was doing it.

He breathed lowly, closing his eyes as he felt the pressure of her tugging and drying. When she asked her question, he paused for only a moment before moving himself over the small distance between them and draping an arm over her side. His head tilted forward until his face was close to her own, his eyes remaining closed as he held her where they lay and hummed happily. Oh yes. Much better.

**PhoenixAshes**

The small shift surprised her a bit. Although she should have been used to it, considering how they’d been since they started. No, since just before they started on their way. “I’ll take that as a ‘yes’.” She replied, speaking softly as she continued her towel drying. It was undeniable that she was completely contented with, and definitely enjoyed the tender way he acted around her. Even if he was a bit cold right now, as evidenced by her goose bumps, she didn’t have the heart to make him move away.

The only problem was, his pants were probably still wet—not that she was going to check—but that might be a little uncomfortable if the sheets soaked it in. Yet, how could she say anything? The pixie sighed softly, letting her forehead rest against his as she debated asking or mentioning anything. They were both happy right here, why ruin it?

**FrankenSoul**

He hummed lowly under his breath as they lingered there, holding each other as the storm outside raged and screamed against the window. His thick hands searched for her face and found it, stroking her cheeks gently with the rough edges of his fingertips that belonged to a worker or warrior. Though her warmth was lost to him, the pressure she applied around his form was more soothing and loving than anything he had experienced. She was a shield against the darkness and fear that threatened to overtake his world at any time. With a simple touch or gentle word, everything else vanished like a bad dream. He couldn't remember anyone else ever granting him such bliss. Not directly. Though, if he allowed his mind to wander and push at the emotions from the back of his memories, he knew that once he had such things. Others to love and hold, to protect them as they in turn protected him. To lend strength and hope and meaning and to have it given back tenfold. Once, long ago, he had been happy. And suddenly, it had gone. Those emotions linked to his past did not extend beyond a certain point, and pondering and trying to lift the fog that encased them merely began to make him dizzy and slow.

That didn't matter. All that mattered was that right now he was holding Ciya, his Ciya, and she in turn was holding him. She was his home against the storm. Their bond wasn't traditional, he would admit that. It was odd, and everyone knew it. Their species, their circumstances, their quickened fondness. All of it was quite queer. What made it stranger still was how much their relationship contrasted it.

It was something pure. Free from labels and constraints, it simply existed because it did. There was no sense in wondering why, or how. Like a flower blooming in the center of a bloody battlefield, their emotions connected simply because, and the lovely events that spilled forth from it were to be accepted without worry or anxiety. His thoughts were still for now, soaking up this untouchable, undefined thing that they had found. He would hold onto it, imprint it into his memory so that when it did finally vanish and he found himself alone, the memory of it would lend him the strength and will to continue on.

The moment was passing. He could feel it slipping between his fingers. As, once again, his mind was beginning to turn and churn up its endless thoughts and questions. For one, he did realize he might be soaking the bedsheets. He groaned, giving Ciya a slight squeeze before beginning to unwrap himself from around her. He lingered a moment more before stroking her hair from her face again, gentle as he could manage. The old bed shifted under his weight as he slid down the side of it, back to the floor where he had previously rested. His writing booklet opened in his hands as he fetched it, pressing his back against the bed and head tilted to peer at Ciya. The 'thud... thud' of his touch against the floor next to him clearly indicated that he wished for her to move down next to him so he could more easily 'talk' to her.

**PhoenixAshes**

The Pixie sighed softly at his touch; the somewhat rough and hardened texture only reassuring her of the reality of it. It was in this, and the long moment that came with it, that she sensed Franky needed her in some way. More than just a friendly guide or distraction from whatever may be a trouble. Truth be told, she liked being important to him. It was far different from anything she'd experienced. Yes, she'd had her family at one time and Vivica, but this--she held tighter to him-- was a completely separate connection.

"Hm?" His groan and squeeze confused her a moment, only to be forgotten when be brushed her hair back. When he moved away instinctively she reached for him, but he'd slid far enough away that she just missed.
His reach for the booklet and the way he glanced back at her, along with the thump, beckoned. Willingly she obliged, sliding across where he had been, since it was the quickest way to be where he wanted. Well, the sheets were just a little damp--oh well, they'd dry before she got back in. It wasn't too bad. "Something important?" She asked, settling in beside him.

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