Undergrowth (Log 03)

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch felt a small stab of worry in her heart for this apparently undead man, now that he was no danger to her it was very clear that the circumstances he was in had some dire forbidding behind them. It faded quickly when she read what he wrote, replaced by a warm smile. “Oh, she’ll be up for a while. But you should check on her anyway. “ Her wink was quick, hinting that she knew something that honestly she probably was just guessing at. “She’ll appreciate that.”

**FrankenSoul**

Franky paused and he swore he felt his cheeks grow a bit darker in color. Why was she winking at him? He cleared his throat, turning his gaze away as she gave a little cheeky look. Then he would go visit her, before Vivica said anything else regrettable.
Putting his booklet away along with his writing journal, he made his way to the kitchen and left his little mess behind. He poked his head in first, glancing around to see if he could spot his sprite friend. Maybe she needed help washing her dishes~?

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch smiled and headed for her room, not saying another word. Was their need to?

Ciya, still in the now dimly lit kitchen was scrubbing hard at a pan. What they’d made was a little bit, well, crunchy and sticky all at once so it was giving her trouble. In her concentration she hadn’t noticed Franky’s entrance, or rather, partial entrance.

**FrankenSoul**

Yep, there she was. His mouth turned upwards in a quirk of a smile. He moved as quietly as he could, slinking behind her and glancing over to see the pan. Oooh that was a tough one. Smiling broadly, he moved his arms on either side of her and moved to take the pan. He glanced sideways at her, moving to nudge her with his head. He hoped he didn't scare her by 'appearing' like that.

**PhoenixAshes**

At the sudden feeling of being ‘captured’ she jumped a bit in surprise, practically dropping the pan into his hands, her back basically bumping into his chest. She hadn’t even looked back yet and she knew it was him, both from the way his hands looked at the texture she felt under the clothing--raised lines of stitches. Her honey colored gaze still held a bit of surprise but the glimmer of happiness and relief over came it. “Well, hi!”

**FrankenSoul**

Yes it was as he thought, he made her jump a little. He hummed a bit and beamed towards her, closing his eyes as he did so to signal back, 'Hello~!'

She bumped back into his chest and he had to admit, it wasn't exactly an awful position to be in. If he didn't have a pot to deal with he would hug her. For now he turned to look at the thing. Tsk-tsk, what had the witch been cooking? Well, he had enhanced strength for just this sort of thing! Taking the pot and rag, he pushed to scrub the thing. Soon enough, he was able to force away the crud and moved to place it to dry.

Gladly, he wiped his damp hands upon his sides before moving his limbs around his dear pixie friend in a hug, doing his best to grin as he did so. He made sure to be careful as he gave her a squeeze, not wishing to hurt her accidentally. An idea came into his head, making his smile playfully sinister. Ciya's feet would leave the ground behind as she was lifted up and pulled against his chest, carefully swung about somewhat. He smirked as he did so, eyebrow lifted as if to say, 'What are you going to do about it~?'

Then again, she most likely was used to being off the ground. She had wings after all.

**PhoenixAshes**

His move to put the pot over in the drainer received a small appreciative nod from her. As he embraced her she leaned into it, quite happy to do so and return such a motion. It was funny, the pixie was quite rapidly finding a place in Franky’s hold was comfortable for her. After all she had spent quite a while today being this close to him, it was quickly becoming normal for the two of them. However the sudden lightness and space between her feet and the ground surprised her, and instinctually she bent her injured leg slightly so she wouldn’t land on that one first when and if he put her down. This hold and height were met with a giggle or two a moment later as he swung. The sound came again when she caught his look--she was going to quite happily do nothing.

**FrankenSoul**

What, not even a little fight? Then again, she didn't seem like one to be feisty... Unless someone else was in danger. He shook his head somewhat, though felt that nice, warm feeling in his chest as she giggled. He really liked that feeling. It seemed to have been spreading too, pressing a glow through his entire person.

A thought tried to push through the happy moment, but he shoved it away. He wouldn't let negative things ruin a tender time. Gently, he lowered her back onto her feet. He glanced down at her leg. It seemed to be doing well.

Still, he gestured towards it and looked towards her, light concern on his face.

Slowly withdrawing, he moved to reach for his writing journal so he could speak in further detail. 'The books in the other room are really helping me. I'm going to stay up tonight and see what I can find. Though your friend warned me and seems worried about what I'll stumble across.'

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya smiled warmly up at him after she’d gotten evened in balance again, but stayed right where she was in his,now looser, but steadying hold. “oh, yeah.” She nodded at his motions, looking down at her leg and turning it this way or that so she could look at the bandages on it. “It’s doing better! Getting it cleaned right away helped a lot.” Another grin was sent his way. “I had Viv use a purification charm on it just incase, and she insisted that she try and heal it but whatever the little thing did to me has to heal naturally.” The fae shrugged.
When he drew back she stopped talking, seeming to know he was going to ‘say’ something else. “Ah! I knew they’d help.” Her smile was bright, but it faded at bit as she read that again. “So...some of what you have in your book there is dark stuff?” That was the only thing Vivica would have warned him against, especially since how he was ‘made’--even she, a pixie with very little understanding of magic except for her own, knew that whatever had happened was something terrifyingly potent and strong.

**FrankenSoul**

Very dark stuff. He hadn't even gotten into the deeper parts of it and he already felt uneasy about what he'd learn. Curses and vexes were just the beginning of it. It was strange. The beginning had started with much brighter things.

He gave a small shrug, moving to place his hand on her shoulder and smiling. Everything would be fine. He'd be careful. It wasn't as if the bad things would leap off the page and harm anyone. No matter. He would get to the bottom of this, and find who had brought him back. In the meantime...

Wanting a small change of topic, his eyes widened as he thought of a something and wrote quickly.

'Ah! By the way, have you heard of that strange way people can hand talk? I've been thinking of ways to communicate when I don't have paper, and thought that would help. I think I know someone who could teach me too, and I could teach you. We could have secret conversations.'

His eyes squinted as he chuckled.

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie laughed softly. “You mean sign language?” She hated to laugh at him for the way he’d phrased it but it was funny: hand talk. “That would actually be better for you, wouldn’t it?” There was a hint of hope in her face. Maybe it could make things easier for him. “That way you could just talk and not have to get paper all the time…although,” She frowned. “There are going to be quite a few who don’t know it, so you’d have to use the paper anyway, but for those who do,” Brightness returned. “That’d be perfect!” Realizing how loud she’d become, Ciya shrunk a bit in embarrassment and covered her mouth with her hand, muffling a giggle. “I should probably hush a bit…Viv is probably resting by now. “

**FrankenSoul**

Oh that's right! It was called something else. He smiled bashfully and rubbed the back of his head, rocking on the heels of his feet as she got a kick from it. But yes, he thought it would work! Though there was the drawback that only a few would know it. Still, he could talk to her easier which was what was important.

As she grew bashful and hid her mouth, he let out a somewhat loud muffled laugh of his own. Moving to pat her back, he gave one of his attempted grins and gave her a thumbs up. Ah he was sure 'Viv' would be just fine.
Whipping out his handy journal, he wrote with mirth still evident in his face, 'I'm sure she wouldn't mind hearing the lovely sound of your voice~ But yes Ciya, I think for now I'm going to go and see what else I can find. If you'd like to join me, I can attempt to 'talk' at the same time, though I can't promise I won't be absorbed by what I'm reading. Or do you have something else to do or think you'll retire for the night?'

**PhoenixAshes**

She blushed and gently nudged his arm at the first sentence. It was silly how much she enjoyed him saying things like that. The list of options from later played through her head. “I’ll stay with you for a bit.” The decision was made and she nodded resolutely. “I’ll just keep you company, don’t worry about having to talk.”

**FrankenSoul**

So she was going to follow him to his work. He had no problem with that, he would appreciate the company. Taking her hand, he pulled her with him back into the room. He looked at her, evidentially embarrassed by the mess he had left. He would be sure to clean up so the nice witch lady wouldn't get upset at him.
He released her for now, rough hands sliding away before moving to sit in the middle of the sea of papers. He could feel that little tingle go up his spine at the excitement of doing this. He wondered briefly if he had been a librarian or a scholar when he was alive. It would explain this weird excitement he had around books and his natural curiosity. He hunched over the books, the symbols swimming into sight and fell into a world of magic.

There was just so much here. So much knowledge, deeply studied and noted. It was truly fascinating. He was able to read bits of it on his own but had to stop and translate it a lot of the time. His little booklet was showing it's secrets bit by bit, pouring out it's contents. Again, so far he was finding the same things. The beginning contents were filled with such bright things, and studies of creatures and charms. The middle and ending grew darker and darker...

Occasionally he would look up at his friend, smiling broadly and moving over to pat her arm before moving back to his work. He would pause to turn and show some of what he found at times, asking her opinion on what she thought before going on.

Finally, he had a reaction. His eyes widened as his eyes scanned the book. In a burst of excitement, he jumped and almost seemed to wiggle in place as he moved to pat Ciya's shoulder and turn her. He pointed towards a line,

"Some magic users will hide their works in personal books. These books can be coded, contain hidden chapters, and be cursed or charmed to protect the work inside. As many don't wish to be linked with their research, they may hide ownership by obscuring their names. A common technique to hide their mark involves blood magic; feeding blood to the enchantment may reveal the owner's name."

Franky tapped his leg, smiling broadly as he waited for her to read. He reached for his own little booklet, bringing it up and pointing to it. The meaning was obvious. If they "fed" blood on the book, maybe they might find a clue to who it belonged to?

**PhoenixAshes**

The moments in between his revelations and questions, she browsed through a small book, focused on herbs, other plants, and potions of all sorts which could be made from them. It was her area of talent after all.

His final bout of excitement caught her attention more than the rest. "Does it say what kind of blood or how much?" The idea of it made her nervous. Things like that required a certain amount, right? Vivica would know.

**FrankenSoul**

What kind or how much...?

He turned the book around, frowning lightly as he peered further. It started to code itself again after a few lines, using larger words and strange symbols. He couldn't understand what it meant. He gave a low shrug, glancing back at her.

Something seemed to be bothering him. He looked away for a moment before glancing back at her. Hesitantly, he took his writing journal and began to jot something down.

'Do you think I might borrow a few drops from you...? I would do it myself, but I have something else. That blackness that leaked from my stitches, that is. I don't think that would work.'

**PhoenixAshes**

"I'm not sure if mine would work either..." She frowned, her hand going to the bandages on her leg. Her blood was different, still red and all but slightly different. "We could try it, I guess..." She was unsure, however. It was written all over her face along with worry. "Fae, pixie blood, it's--technically-- different. "

**FrankenSoul**

Different? How was it different? Well it wasn't human, but the book hadn't said it needed to be. As long as it was actual blood, instead of what he had. He forgot about that for now however, seeing the worry on her face and frowning slightly in concern. He reached forward to place his hand on her shoulder, expression saying for him, 'How so? We don't have to if you don't want to.'

He would never force someone he cared about to do anything they didn't wish to.

**PhoenixAshes**

She reached to place her hand over his, her honey colored gaze watching him and reading what he might have said. " I don't know the details really, I just know from what little I was told and was able to find that we're closer to the energies that help drive the magic in this world, so our blood carries a little bit more than humans, and even elves. " Suddenly she was hoping this explanation was what he was asking about. " It wouldn't be hard to get it with my leg and all, I'd just have to open it again--it probably wouldn't even hurt that bad." She wanted to help Franky she was just unsure if this was the way to do it. Especially since they didn't know how much that book would need--maybe less if it took her blood since it'd be more potent? But how much was less, half of her entire body's supply? Or perhaps it only needed a single drop, maybe only half a drop?

**FrankenSoul**

So their blood held magical potential in it? His eyes widened somewhat at this news, perhaps a hint of wonder making it's way inside his bright orbs. That just sparked his curiosity even more. Questions jumped to the front of his mind. What could it do? Could it heal? Could it be used for other spells? Could it- No, stop. He silenced his thoughts. She didn't seem to know much about it anyhow, and he wasn't going to press her about it.

At the news that she would reopen her injury for him, he frowned and gave a small nod. No, no he wouldn't have her hurting herself just so he could quench his curiosity. Though he couldn't help the disappointment that showed in his slumping shoulders and the smaller lines of his face. He could ask their witch friend tomorrow if she could help he supposed, although he was almost dying to see it through now.

He rubbed the back of his head, ducking a bit as he gave a small smile and moved to write. Picking it up, he showed the words, 'Sorry. I'm just eager.'

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya smiled softly at his words. In them she knew he wouldn't ask anything of her that might lead to more pain. "I know..." This came in a hushed tone from her. "You've jumped a huge gap, now there's just a crack left to step over.” His change in posture confirmed that. If she wanted to know something that badly, she'd be where he was right now. Maybe she knew what that felt like on some level, reaching but not able to touch something so close. "Franky...I could, you know..." Nervously her slightly curled left hand gripped the middle finger of her right between its thumb and index finger, the pressure and the light pull grounding her as she thought about this. They'd only met, and she was offering up her blood. Suddenly the pixie felt she might want to examine her sanity.

**FrankenSoul**

A huge gap and left with a small crack. He uttered a low chuckle, rolling his shoulders in a mild shrug. That was a good way of putting it, yes. He was reluctantly ready to drop the entire matter. Her magical blood might not react well to whatever magic was on the book anyway. That was, IF the book had anything on it at all. It might just be regular paper and leather, nothing charmed or cursed and placing blood upon it would only dye it red.

Turning to put the book away, he paused when she spoke. He frowned yet again, the rare expression making an appearance as he turned and eyed her. He gave a low sound which sounded like a mix of a whine and a grunt. He did wish she'd stop teasing him so, going back and forth about the matter. His hands tightened on the book, causing his grey hands to become paler.

He offered a smile, though it was lopsided. A fake smile- another rare expression.

He shook his head, trying to blow off the entire matter as he began to make a small waving motion. He moved to tuck the book back into his clothing, ready to jump back forth into the ancient tomes. Maybe he could find something else to help and take his mind off the terrible weight in the bottom of his stomach.

**PhoenixAshes**

She sighed, seeming to loose her resolution. "We should wait until tomorrow to try this, yeah?" Her hold on her own hands let go as she glanced down at them and then up again, an odd expression seeming to ask forgiveness for her wishy-washiness. "Viv might know more, we’d have a better judgment then...maybe.." As he waved her off, the pixie frowned. Feeling something of a distance between her and her new friend forming and with it came a soft, whispery pang of guilt.

**FrankenSoul**

The book was safely placed inside his jacket, placed inside the inner pocket near his heart. Or whatever was there now under that mass of scars. He glanced aside, seeming to ignore her own looks of apologetic regret. He moved to reach for a dusty tome, his fingers touching the edge before he froze.

What was he doing? He was really upset that she didn't want to spill her magical blood on something potentially cursed? She had at least offered at first, and that was something in and of itself. He lifted his face up, giving her a careful smile in response to her earlier gestures. His hands moved carefully across his writing journal, before he turned it and showed her.

'That's fine. I'll just keep myself busy until tomorrow then. But it's getting late. Aren't you tired? I'd feel bad if I had you yawning all day tomorrow because you stayed up all night with me.'

**PhoenixAshes**

The moment of sheer silence tried to set everything she felt deeper, trying to get a holdfast in her and possibly spring doubts. Thankfully though, his move to write again shook it from seeding and a small but strong sweep of relief came to her. "I am a little tired but, I don't exactly feel right leaving you here by yourself. " He'd feel bad if she was tired and she'd feel bad if he was alone--one of them was going to have to give sooner or later, or compromise somehow.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh so she was being stubborn then was she? He had wondered slightly if she was staying up to keep him company. She didn't need to. Although he liked her being around, he was used to wandering around alone. A single night to read was much better than running from beasts and monster out there in the darkness.

Taking his 'talking' book with him, he hefted himself up with a low grunt. Making his way through the maze of tomes, he moved behind her and pushed more mess aside so that he could plop down behind her. Without warning, his arms moved around her from behind as he gave a playful smirk, glancing sideways at her as her back pressed against his torso. His book still in hand, he wrote directly in front of her.

'Is this okay then? I'll just hold you until you pass out, miss stubborn.'

**PhoenixAshes**

His sudden rise and quick clearing of the mess confused her for a moment, but the plop and pulling her close made it clear what he was up to. She laughed softly. Again with her pressed against his chest due to his hold on her--this seemed to be the way they bonded. Unable to help it, she giggled softly when he looked at her with that smirk. Her gaze only turning away from him when he wrote. "Hmm.." She pondered, seeming to snuggle closer. "mmm.." No, no, not quite right. Like this she'd be up all night--maybe if... The pixie turned so she was perpendicular to him, her head resting near to his shoulder but against his chest. "Mmn. Yes...this is perfect." She smiled brightly, lightly holding to Franky. For what he was, he was oddly comfortable.

**FrankenSoul**

He had half expected her to shake her head and tell him to move away. He was sure he had to stink or was breaking her space without asking to do this. But to his surprise, she not only leaned against him but turned around to lay her face upon him. His surprise showed clearly on his face, expression elongated and eyebrows lifted before mellowing into a gentle smile. He gave a honey toned laugh, his mouth stretching opening enough to show a glimspe of his teeth.

Well, having her in this pose would make it impossible to talk to her unless he wanted to constantly shift her around in order to write and bring it in front of her eyes. Oh well. He would simple listen to her then, if she had anything to say. Her action was a surprise, yes, but it was a sweet one. He hadn't thought she would do that. After all, they had only known each other for a day. Yet he felt a kinship with her.

His arms tightened around her, gently firm as he leaned his head down to nudge against her own. He sighed through his nose, closing his eyes as he did so. Slowly, he began to rock them back and forth slightly. There it was again. That wonderful, golden feeling. It made his chest ache, and yet the ache strangely was a pleasant pain.

**PhoenixAshes**

If he needed to write something she could always turn her head to read it, although she'd be craning her neck just a bit to do so, but if they needed to talk, she could shift. The pixie smiled, since she could feel his surprise. After everything they'd already been through he still thought she would reject him. The thought held a flicker of sadness for her, although it was snuffed out quickly at his nudging, which she responded to with something like a nuzzle. As his hold became firmer, she let her hand, both of which were now at his back since she held him as well, rub softly in the small area above and below it's placement. It was warmer, being held like this, even though as he rocked she knew the warmth wasn't physically coming from him. Just over all, it felt good and therefore 'warm'.

**FrankenSoul**

How very strange.

He kept his head low and his eyes closed. This felt somewhat familiar, as if they had known each other for years and were merely doing what was natural to them. And really, it did feel very natural. A gesture that held no charged emotions. Instead it was sweet, and pure, and innocent. It was akin to a brother and sister, or perhaps two lifelong friends. He felt a stab through the haze. Yes, that's right. Friends. As what else could there be?

He was a corpse. Utterly and completely dead. He felt nothing further than affection, and could not physically perform what many beings could. He could not even use his lips freely. He frowned lightly. Why was he thinking of this...? It wasn't as if they had done anything wrong or naughty. But perhaps it was a brief reminder, even if they had wished, it couldn't be anything more.

He shoved the thought aside. How dare it try to ruin this perfect moment. Slowly, his form became more and more relaxed. His head remained against her, his eyes closed and his breathing more steady.

Until, finally, he seemed to nod off entirely. His head rolled against her shoulder, his body utterly slack as he leaned against her. His breathing ceased entirely as his breathing slowed so much it barely sounded as if he were at all. Or perhaps he wasn't? It was hard to tell.

The expression on his face was one of peace. He didn't need to rest, and yet he had become so relaxed with her that he had fallen asleep. Could one blame him? It was rare that he was in such a situation, around someone he trusted.

**PhoenixAshes**

The sudden looseness and the light bob of his head against her shoulder brought her out of the comfort she'd felt, but it didn't ruin it. It was kind of amusing--so much for him not sleeping. When she felt he was far enough into it that he wouldn't wake if she shifted or touched, she brought the arm that was facing out and away from him slightly up so that hand could gently smooth over his hair. He looked so sweet like this, calm, quiet, serene. It was flattering, really, that there wasn't a single bit of tension in him. It was lucky that he was safely propped up against something so he hadn't fallen backward, that jolt certainly would have woken him and that would be a shame. Ciya cuddled a bit into his shoulder, holding tightly to him again. "Good night, Franky." She whispered, so softly even she wasn't sure she'd spoken at all.

**FrankenSoul**

And so it was through the night. For once, Franky was able to rest his form. With her against him, the two supported each other through the night, surrounded by ancient tomes.

He didn't move much through the darker hours of the day. In fact, he had indeed stopped breathing when he slept. He only breathed out of habit, and when he slumbered he no longer could tell himself to do so. Yes indeed, he was also unable to generate heat. Still, his body acted as a blanket would, taking Ciya's heat and keeping it close to her.

The world continued to turn, and time continued to pass outside their small bubble of comfort. As the bright and warm rays of sunshine began to stretch their way through the home, they found the small pair slumbering peacefully. Franky was the first to awaken, lifting his head to slowly blink at the light.

Huh...? What was going on? Why was there light like that in the middle of the night? Wait... In surprise, he looked down to see a smaller person laying against him and gripping him. He couldn't help the smile that crept along his face. Oh. He must have fallen asleep again her. How odd. He didn't normally lower his guard like that when it came to sleep. She looked so peaceful. Carefully, he brought his hand up to brush a strand of hair from her face. She had stayed here? He hadn't meant to trap her against him. Though she seemed comfortable.

Gently, as not to wake her, he unwound himself from her form. He didn't know where her bedroom was and didn't want to go looking by himself. For now, he simply lay her down on a particularly soft and squishy book and placed a blanket around her form, even tucking the sides in. Looking over his handiwork, he nodded in approval. There.

For now, it was time to hunt.

The morning woods were always so quiet. The animals and even monsters were silent, ushering forth a spell of peace that seemed to soften the harsher edges of the world. He breathed deeply through his nose, turning to admire how the light warmed the colors of the house before setting off. He had breakfast to find!

It took longer than he would have thought. An hour or so passed, and still no sign of Franky. Where had he gone? At last, his ragged dapper self could be seen rushing quickly back towards the house. A light of excitement had entered his eyes, energy filling his limbs. He wasn't sure if the two women were up and about yet, but he hoped so. Moving to the door, he gave a series of quick and light knocks.

**PhoenixAshes**

As he moved her, the pixie seemed to stir ever so slightly, but not enough to be brought to full wakefullness. Yesterday's events had tired her more than she would care to admit, had she been awake, so her sleep was much deeper than usual. Eventually, from under the close comfort of the blanket tucked about her, she streatched and yawned as she finaly woke. For a moment, she was far too fuzzy minded to worry about where her once resting friend had gone, but as funtion returned to her mind the realization jolted her. "Franky?" She asked to the air, looking about the room. It was rather clear the squishy, soft-leather-bound book pillow and the blanket wre his doing, as it was characteristically thoughtful of him.

After getting up and having a quick search of the house, which Vivica joined in on, as the witch had been up for a while, but not long enough to have heard or seen Franky leave. When they turned up nothing, the memory of his suggestion to get food for them came up, which relieved both. That made sense that he should go like that.
From there they simply prepared for the day, but waited for their other friend to return. Ciya checking every so often out a window to make sure the poor guy didn't get stuck outside the barrier.

The knocks surprised the witch more than the pixie. For some reason she'd been sure that Ciya would have to invite him in through the barrier again, unless...

As Ciya got the door and let him in it became clear.

The invitation to stay, from both of them had extended his ability to come through the barrier.

"Welcome back."Vivica greeted.

**FrankenSoul**

Franky beamed towards them, waving quickly in greeting as he glanced between the two women. He was glad to see that Ciya was up and about. He moved towards her to briefly embrace her, not shy about it in the least in front of Vivica. He pulled back within seconds though and seemed to be hopping in place, gesturing for the two of them to follow. Whatever it was, he was happy about it with a large grin.

He turned and was off again, out the door before he could see if either of them were actually going to listen. He moved briskly, out towards where he had first entered the barrier. There was something out there, waiting for him. Or, to be precise, someone.

As they lifted themselves from the ground, it became apparent that they weren't exactly human. Smoothly they rose, seemingly wearing a dark skirt and nothing upon a tanned, bare chest. Coming closer, the skirt revealed itself to be a long, shimmering black tail. A man greeted Franky, smiling a fanged smile and running his hands slicked black hair. "There you are, grey one. I was wondering when you were going to come back."

He reached down, fingers trailing across his scales. Emerald eyes shifted to look around Franky, to see if he had been able to get his friends. The pesky barrier had stopped him from following. From the waist down, the man was a shimmering black snake. A naga, his species had populated the magical woods for a long while. Though it was odd to see one alone, as many of their local groups traveled together.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya hugged back happily only to notice the confused excitement Franky seemed to project. At his exit,the two gazes of the females, honey and deep brown, looked at eachother in pure confusion and then both quickly moved to follow their new acquaintance.

Vivica,once they were close enough to see that the new being beyond the barrier, blinked in further shock. "A naga...?" His presence there was completely unexpected. Apparently they were going to have to get used to such things.

Ciya's limp wasn't quite as bad today, but she did hop along easily behind Franky, stopping a step or two behind him,hovering cautiously back. 'Grey one'? Did these two know eachother somehow?

**FrankenSoul**

Franky smiled broadly towards the naga, turning to look back upon his other two friends and bouncing excitely upon his heels. He gestured towards the snake man, and in return the man let out a soft laugh. Two emerald, slitted eyes fixed upon the two women. Strangely, despite the devious shape and light of them, they were both kind and warm. His tone held the same tint, as he placed an arm over his chest and moved to bow lowly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you. Franky has been telling me all about you. He wished for me to meet you, but I obviously couldn't pass this spot. A barrier of sorts? Magical, I assume. Whoever did it, I compliment their handiwork. You are... what was it... Ciya and...'Vivy', yes? My name is Slick. Or, that's what humans call me at least."

The 'grey one' had moved beside Slick outside the barrier. He moved to pat his back, turning towards the other two. He was as eager as a child, showing his parents an interesting new creature he had found. Though Slick was hardly knew, as he continued to speak,

"I've known Franky for many years now. I bump into him every so often. I was surprised to hear that he had been inside a house of all things, by an elf and a sprite?" He guessed at their species from what he observed, giving a polite smile.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica cringed at the nickname or misrepresentation of her nickname. "It's Vivica." She corrected gently after the naga, "Slick" as he said, said it.

"Trust me, we were all a little bit surprised." Ciya replied, offering a sweet and polite smile of her own and stepping through the barrier. More an action of trust in Franky's judgement than of knowledge of this newcomer.

**FrankenSoul**

Slick didn't even try to repress his smile as he glanced at Franky during Vivica's reaction. "Oh? Apologies. Franky wrote it differently."

The undead ducked his head down, embarrassed as he noted she did not like that nickname in the slighest. Woops.

Ciya joined him outside, and without thinking about it he placed an arm around her shoulders and smiled. Slick lifted an arched brow at this, glancing towards Vivica as if to say, 'Well this is new.'

Chuckling, Slick moved himself lower and settled himself nicely upon the ground. There now, he could more easily speak. "I was also told that you required a little help in your kitchen? If it wouldn't be imposing, I'd like to help. May I be invited in for breakfast? I'm also a fine chef, believe it or not."

**PhoenixAshes**

"Ah, well in that case." Vivica shrugged it off her displeasure when the apology was given. It was clear by Franky's ducking of his head that he was sorry too.

Although the next action caught her interest--those two seemed to have gotten close last night. Even though she didn't know the naga well, it was clear that he was as intrigued at Franky's action around Ciya.

"Well, not exactly 'requiring' help,but..."There was a sigh and a smile from the witch as she looked to her Pixie friend. "What do you think,Ciya?"

"Well, Franky brought him here." The smaller woman looked to who was holding her. "Might as well let him in after coming all this way."

The witch nodded. "That settles it, I guess." Her gaze turned to the naga. "Come on in for a while Slick. " Now he'd be able to cross.

**FrankenSoul**

Franky thrust a victorious fist into the air, obviously overjoyed that his friends could be together. Great! And they could have a good breakfast too! He realized that this too was a sign of their trust and felt a glow inside.

Giving yet another little bow, Slick's body rose up from the ground and carefully began to move inside. When he wasn't stopped, he gave a fanged grin and nodded. "Thank you. Franky, can you get the body and bring it to their kitchen?"

Eyes widening, Franky gave a little nod before turning and moving back deeper into the woods, reluctantly seperating himself from Ciya as he did so. Slick glanced at the two women, his smile becoming more diabolical. "I hope you like the taste of HUMAN flesh. Franky caught it himself this morning-"

His words were quickly proven to be false. The underbrush rustled and Franky emerged, indeed a body thrown over his shoulder. However, it was that of a deer. Adult, male, and recently killed, it's neck was twisted strangely. His doing from hunting alone before. Hefting it, he moved at a fast pace and smiled innocently as he moved it and himself back towards the home, not knowing that Slick had been teasing his other friends moments before.

The naga smiled, chuckling. "Forgive me, I like to have a bit of fun. Shall we follow after him then?" He gestured and began to move. Oddly, he moved his hands behind his back as he did so.

A good ways behind Franky, he spoke and looked straight ahead.

"I apologize if my arrival is sudden. But if Franky wishes for me to his other friends, I find I can't say no to his eager innocence. I'm made a lot of allies simply because of him introducing me to them."

**PhoenixAshes**

Even though Ciya had rolled her eyes immediately at what Slick was trying to insinuate, Vivica briefly looked horrified, only to be immediately eased when there more familiar friend moved back into sight with a rather large buck. They would definately have meat left over. Although, the witch did wonder how Franky had gotten to a deer that size, bare handed...Shaking off the thought she figured it'd be better if she didn't ponder on it.

Ciya smiled suspiciously at Slick when he commented on 'having a bit of fun'. "We have a trickster in our midst, it seems."

Vivica was doing her best not to stare, although the task was difficult--since she'd never seen a naga in person, this person intrigued her. "No need to apologize. Franky seems to have that effect on many people." Her gaze flicked to Ciya who was beside her at the moment. For a moment the pixie looked confused by the accusation of being affected by Franky, and pointed to herself as if trying to get a signal from her witch friend if she was right in thinking that was what was being suggested.

**FrankenSoul**

He hadn't gotten at the small sprite, but the elf held a delicious look of surprise at his little joke. He grinned and gave a low laugh, glancing towards Ciya as she spoke. "Why, that's a bit rude. Just because I'm a snake doesn't mean I'm a trickster..." He placed a hand upon his chest, appearing playfully offended.

It didn't MEAN he was one, but he did like to tease. He was surely enjoying all the attention as he caught the elf woman from the corner of his eye, staring at him. He would surely have to address that later for further teasing. For now, he only lifted a brow at the mention of Ciya and Franky.

"Ah yes, it does seem the two of you are rather close. You WILL take care of the boy now, won't you? Make a proper man out of him, perhaps use the human ritual of marriage~?"

**PhoenixAshes**

“Of course I’ll—“ The pixie began to answer only to freeze at the rest of Slick’s words. A long string of sounds, starting and stopping like she didn’t know where to start and finally she settled for this. “But I just met him yesterday!”

This response set Vivica immediately into laughter. A pixie and whatever Franky was—that would be an odd pair indeed.

**FrankenSoul**

Perfection! Slick joined Vivica in laughter, looking extremely pleased with himself at the poor little pixie. The expression on his face perfectly expressed that he would NOT be forgetting this instance anytime soon.

Any further playfulness would have to wait for now though, as they arrived at the home. Like Franky, Slick too looked it over with a degree of warmth. What a cozy little place.

Franky had moved to a sturdy looking tree not far away, looking about for something to hold it up. This might get a bit messy... He looked back at Slick, and the snake man seemed to read his mind well. He would act as his voice for the moment, turning towards the two women.

"Would you have any rope...? The animal needs to be skinned, so that it might be used. We can handle preparing it and will have meat for you shortly. It might take a small while to prepare... " He moved to bite his lip. Perhaps it wasn't such a good idea to make this for "breakfast". He voice this out loud, letting out a light laugh.

"Well perhaps we'll have it prepared for lunch of dinner at least. I assure you, the wait will be worth it. I could fetch fresh fruit for this morning for breakfast, if you'd like."

**PhoenixAshes**

At the request, Ciya perked up. "I know where some is. " Quickly she went off to get it. Well, as quickly as her leg would allow. Now the only thing she had to do was pray the closet it was in was organized enough that the contents would not fall on her.

"Actually," Vivica suggested with a gracious smile. "Let Ciya and I take care of breakfast. Since you and Franky seem to have a lot of work cut out for you. You're definitely going to earn being treated." Even though it seems the planning of this entire event was spur of the moment, it still was looking promising.

**FrankenSoul**

"Will do," Slick spoke with mirth, chuckling. He glanced back towards Franky. Seemed the man was content with holding the dead deer, looking off into the distance with a pleasant expression as he waited for the rope.. and Ciya.

Slick turned to face Vivica, once again giving a little bow from his waist. "Thank you for the help, Vivica. You know..." The edge of his lip twitched up as he barely hid his amusement. "If you wish to touch my tail, you're welcome too." He moved his hand down, sliding the tips of his fingers across the smooth and cold scales below his waist. "You seem to be rather interested in it, staring at me so."

**PhoenixAshes**

Instead of coming back to Slick and Vivica, Ciya went directly out to Franky through another door--since he was the one who needed it really. Of course this was after she had to hop as hard a she could on her good leg to reach the darn wrapped up thing. She bay be a little on the short side but she wasn't tiny, still the hook it had been on was a little too high. She was lucky she didn't hurt herself again in the process. "The trouble I go through because of you." She told Franky teasingly as she came up to him.

The witch visibly blushed in embarrassment when he mentioned her staring. "Oh, no,I--um..." She was as flustered as Ciya had been moments ago. It felt as if she'd been caught with her hand in the cookie jar or something along those lines and even though she really wanted to see what the naga's scales felt like, her immediate reaction was to decline. "I just...I've never seen someone like you in person..." The explanation was given in soft shame, her gaze flicking away from how his hand moved over his scales.

**FrankenSoul**

He felt a little bad for the poor deer on his shoulder. It had seemed terrified before he had killed it with his bare hands. Still, if he hadn't something else would have. Like Slick, who slithered up to him not long after to comfort him. After finding out that Franky was doing it for someone else, Slick had told him that the animal would at least make his loved ones happy and full. Speaking of which... He glanced up as Ciya returned with rope. Ooh but it might have been troublesome to do so alone. He tilted his head and made a low sound of apology, though smiled all the same.

He reached for the rope, standing and taking it with a nod of appreciation. It was a simple matter to tie it onto the creatures legs and hoist it up, tying it so that it stayed swinging and ready to be skinned. Its broken neck became more obvious in such a position- clearly Franky's doing, as he had disposed of the demon child the same way.

Dusting his hands, he huffed and moved to read for his notebook to write in.

'I hope you're not grossed out by this, Ciya.' He wrote and slid her a smile, bumping her slightly with his hip. 'With a dead animal like this. I'm sure you wouldn't want to help us skin it, eh?'

My my, these two women were very fun to have around. So easy to bring color to their face. And both so unwilling to do what they wanted to do. He laughed again, the sound somehow both oily and yet joyful.

'Standing' as he was, lifted high from the ground, he lowered himself so that he might face her more easily. His fanged grin was friendly, though his slitted eyes might be seen as unnerving. He reached for her hand, speaking soothingly. "There's nothing wrong with a little curiosity. You really shouldn't be so shy. I thought elves to be bolder than that?" He took her hand as he spoke and moved it to his side, guiding her to run her fingers along the scales. They almost felt slimy, and yet weren't. Perhaps that was because of the cold smoothness. He released her hand, the end of his tail twitching as he spoke.

"Now then, was that so bad~? I don't bite, really. Well, actually I do, but only when I'm hunting."

**PhoenixAshes**

As he hoisted the deer the pixie couldn’t help but frown. However she did her best to hide it by keeping her expression more stoic than sad. While such a sacrifice was necessary if she and Vivica, and now Slick from the sound of how things were going, were to eat heartily—and what was left would keep the girls fed for a while. It wasn’t like she was unused to seeing an animal this way. Heck, she’d caught rabbits and other little things, since that was usually all she was able to tote home and done the skinning and cleaning. Still, a deer, alive or dead seemed to always hold a personified quality about it. Maybe she’d take what they couldn’t use from it and mix it with some dirt for a while, then plant something in it. Yes, that sounded good. That’d be honoring it. Franky’s writing brought her out of her thoughts and she smiled back at him. “Oh, I’m not grossed out.” She bumped him back. “I’d help but, I think this one is on you…”

The reach for her hand surprised the witch, but she didn’t pull back. Under her touch, she didn’t register the scales as slimy but rather, cool and smooth with a slightly rubbery sensation. Exactly like the skin of an ordinary snake. It was hard for her to not show her complete interest, her warm gaze now going to where her hand rested. It took a moment for her to process anything he was saying, except this. “About the elf thing…” When he let go she lingered a moment and then drew her hand back. “This,” she made a motion to her face, “isn’t exactly me.” Her glance went to the window where Ciya and Franky seemed to be ‘talking’ via the grey man’s book. “It’s kind of a glamour spell, but long lasting. I had to if Franky was going to stay since he kind of went berserk when he first saw me.” Something about his slitted gaze made her feel like she was being scrutinized but Vivica brushed it off as something caused my the aesthetic rather than his internal workings.

**FrankenSoul**

He had wondered about how she would react to his antics, but she seemed unbothered by it. Oh good, someone he could playfully 'torture' and not worry about being harmed in return~ About the elf...? Aaah that made sense. Something did seem off about her that he coudn't place. Now he could. Slick's eyes visibly widened at the news that she had witnessed Franky going 'berserk'. "And yet you still decided to let him stay, changing how you look to do so? I imagine you did it as Ciya wished for him to remain, yes?" He arched a delicate brow, catching onto her quickly and how much she cared for the other.

He followed her gaze towards where the two were lingering. They seemed to be joking about, fully comfortable with each other as if they had known each other for years. It was so strange... Even now, Franky looped his arms around her before lifting her into his arms. Oh my, how utterly adorable.

"Hmm... I do wonder what's going through their minds. I hope they're careful..." Faint hints of concern came to his face. "Things could very easily turn and hurt them both."

**PhoenixAshes**

"It was as much for Ciya as it was for him." Vivica replied softly, really thinking over why she'd allowed it. " He was perfectly ready to leave for good if she and I said so." That was part of the reason she went to this measure to allow him to stay, there was this level of respect he had for both of them that she'd seen in very few. Ciya smiled brightly as she held to Franky in return. Vivica's expression became quite similar to that of Slick's as he spoke. "Well, there's no prying them appart now." She shook her head in an unsure gesture. "They seem rather attached to each other already."

**FrankenSoul**

"Yes... They do." So close, in such a small amount of time... But look at that, he'd made the air heavy. He smiled, laughing lightly as he joked, "Perhaps we'll be Aunty and Uncle to some undead pixies~? But for now, I think I'll help prepare the food." He lifted his hand, flexing the fingers adorned with sharp, hard nails. "I'll make skinning it a breeze."

Excusing himself from the not-true-elf, he interrupted Franky and Ciya to begin preparing the animal. Franky, smiling towards Ciya, moved to help. Together, they worked well to do so. It was messy work, to be sure... But neither seemed too bothered about it, especially after it stopped looking like an innocent creature and more like simple meat to be used.
Hours passed, and soon enough Franky began to 'invade' their kitchen. Borrowing pots and pans with a smile, he moved back outside to where Slick had built a fire. A pot of boiling water was placed over it, and the two men ran about the forest for brief periods to fetch the needed plants and herbs for flavoring. Soon, a delicious broth was made and steaming, the needed meats seasoned and thrown into the mix. The sun was well on its way through its arch in the sky when their activity began to slow.

Plopping down upon their rumps, Slick and Franky breathed and gave each other a smile. They had brought out a large plate, arraned with several vegteables and fruits... along with a loaf of blueberry bread that Franky had wandered in with and didn't want to tell where he got it.

"Well, a bit longer and I think we'll be finished," Slick said, moving to touch his stomach. He rested upon his own curled tail, happy to rest in the sunlight. What a wonderful day this was.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica couldn't help but laugh at the idea of "undead pixies"--what an odd sight that would be. Although if those two carried on like that for a while, a few years, that idea might be a little more plausible. There was no time to think of that now, however. There were things to be done.

Early on into the cleaning of the animal both Ciya and Vivica, as had been promised by the witch, brought out a spot of breakfast that they'd prepared. Although due to Franky's seeming to not really need physical sustenance and the added barrier of the fact that his lips were sewn what was made mostly ended up being for them and Slick. Either way, rules hospitality dictated that those being taken care of, in this case the witch and pixie, give some back to those already giving, Franky and Slick.

In between other things that needed to be done around the home, Ciya hovered about, sometimes literally now that she was able to pick up enough speed to call her wings again, in interest of the things going on outside.

Franky's presence seemed less an "invasion" and more like random raids--although, much more polite within the fact he usually asked if he could have one thing or another. Which was why the later appearance of the blueberry bread loaf, and his refusal to say how or where he got it, had mostly Vivica suspicious he didn't always ask for what he took.

By the time Slick announced it was almost done, all had joined both him and Franky.

"It looks wonderful." The witch complimented, truly impressed. She honestly had not expected as good of a turn out as what was before them.

Ciya smiled her bright way, honey eyes holding a sunlit glimmer of excitement. "and it smells wonderful." Her breath in was a little more exaggerated than it should have been, but it got her point across.

**FrankenSoul**

Tucking strands of his oily hair back over his head, Slick laughed lowly. "Well I did my best. Ah pardon me, WE did our best. Franky was great help."

Franky did his best to beam towards the two, rocking back and forth where he sat. It smelled good? Gosh he wished he could smell it! No matter, his friends seemed to love it. He giggled, positively pleased.

Glancing back towards the pot and taking a deep inhale, a slender and forked tongue briefly touched the air before slinking back into his mouth. Oooh yes, the smell in the air tasted very good too. "All done," He proclaimed, moving a spoon inside to dip the thick liquid into bowls that had been moved. What a wonderful day to eat outside too. The sun felt sooo good on his shoulders. He might simply curl up and sleep after this.

Handing out the bowls, he gestured towards the large plate. "Help yourself to anything there to add to it. Though I do wish Franky would tell us where that bread came from..." His eyes narrowed towards the other, playfully.

Franky ducked his head, sheepishness apparent. This only grew worse as Slick continued on, the end of his tail poking Franky's leg. "I bet you got it the same way you get your clothes, didn't you?"

"Hmmmmm," Franky looked away, sure that he would be blushing deep red if he were alive. His reaction was enough to confirm it as Slick took his own bowl, lifting a brow and laughing. "I thought so!"

**PhoenixAshes**

After receiving her bowl, Ciya laughed lightly at the exchange between the two, particularly because of how Slick was using his tail to jab at Franky, but at one comment the sound flittered off and only her smile remained. "Wait, Franky, how did you get your clothes?" So far the pixie had completely given Franky the benefit of the doubt, so the question showing the naga's accusation was ever so slightly lost on her.

Vivica from her place, raised an eyebrow in interest. If they got that answer they'd answer how the bread came to be here.

**FrankenSoul**

Damn. He had done it again. The snake man and the undead swapped gazes, passing along a look of concern and worry. This was due to how Slick and Franky had first met... A perfect example of his he gained his clothes, but not something nice to share now.

Instead, Slick cleared his throat and offered his most soothing tone while gesturing for them to eat up. "Oh our little grey one here has been known to snatch things from the edges of villages or camps. Otherwise he'd be running about naked, which I'm sure as a gentle soul he doesn't want to impose that on anyone."

Franky ducked his head down, moving to rub the back of it and smiling with his eyebrows tilted up towards the other. Really, THAT wasn't even a big deal. Just a little thievery was all, and normally just small things no one would even notice was gone.

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie blinked at the first part of that reply, about to internally question Franky's integrity when the second part came and she laughed again. "Well that's a different story then." If it was out of necessity then it wasn't as bad as just purely stealing because one could.

The witch, also smiling due to the naga's second comment, came to a similar conclusion, but decided to speak on another angle of it. "Well, while you're here, Franky, you'll want for nothing." So keep the snatching to a minimum, her undertone hinted. The last thing any of them needed was for someone from the towns near by to wander out looking for compensation and the theif--with who comprised the present company that could end very badly.

Franky pouted somewhat, moving to cross his arms across his chest. Well snatching the loaf wasn't exactly a necessity... but Slick was ripping off a piece and eating it himself, so at least it was going to good use. Man he really wished he could take a bite out of that. Blueberries were his favorite... He jumped somewhat. Blueberries were his favorite...? He frowned, looking down. He could never remember eating them, but yes they were.

Oh that was right. Scooting closer to Vivica, he brought out his notebook to write, 'I was meaning to ask you... I found out something about my book. It mentioned placing blood upon the pages to show the owner. Would you happen to know anything about that?'

While he did that, Slick glanced towards Ciya. Well... He might have a bit of fun. Lifting himself slightly and sliding over to rest near her, he flashed her his fanged grin and offered her the blueberry bread loaf. "Here you are lovely. Want a bite...? By the way, those wings of yours look so delicate and lovely, if you pardon me being so brisk about them."

Vivica had just taken a spoonful of the stew-like concoction when Franky scooted her way and wrote. At least with him she could continue what she was doing while leisurely rea--blood magic. The book he was studying held blood magic? Or rather a blood seal, perhaps. "I do..." She replied to him, softly not really wanting to alert either Ciya or Slick.

Him calling her 'lovely' was a little bit off in her opinion, but she let it slide. Slick just took a little getting used to is all--for her at least. "I guess a piece would be alright." She replied to the offer, taking a bit of the bread. "Oh, my wings." Almost instinctually she nearly turned to look behind her, only to remember that she didn't have them out at the moment. "Well, thank you. They are a little bit pretty when the sun catches them, but their basically just like insect wings."

**FrankenSoul**

Well he had wondered what she would think of it. His concern became obvious as she seemed to hesitate, giving a light frown. So it really was that bad then? 'I asked Ciya to do it for me- as I don't really have blood. But she said it would be best to ask you about it first. Is it really that bad then...?'

"Oh don't say that! They shine and look very pretty! Has Franky 'said' anything about it yet...?" He gave a polite grin, his tail slowly winding around himself. Innocently, he moved to place a finger over his lips. "Actually, has he said anything to you...? You both seem rather close. Are you two..." He lifted an arched brow, giving a deep giggle. "Together~?"

**PhoenixAshes**

She didn't like the idea of Ciya's blood being used, and that clearly showed on her face as she read it. "It can be." Deciding to be completely and bluntly honest with him was probably the best route. "Some charms requiring blood are harmless, just an added measure, like a lock on a window or door," Her expression became a little more grave. "Others though...their like traps, designed to stop anyone from finding out and carrying the information on. The darkest ones are designed to drain a person entirely..." She shivered slightly at the idea. "We'll need to find out which it is before even offering a drop."

"He's said a lot of things." She tried to dodge the meaning Slick was getting at but failed, since he went on about it. "No, no we're not." The pixie spoke in a matter-of-fact manner. "Like I said we only met yesterday. We just became friends and friendly really fast."

**FrankenSoul**

Oh wow... It was that bad? He pressed his lips together, he looked off to the side as he tugged at his fingers. He was glad that they hadn't gone forward with it that night. He hadn't meant to put anyone in danger... His shoulders slumped before he glanced back up at her and made a small waving motion, as if dismissing the matter entirely. It sounded like some scary power placed onto it. He didn't want anyone to get mixed up in such things because of him.

Slick couldn't help but continue to smile slyly towards the other, soothingly insisting, "Aaah what a shame. To not pursue such a beautiful woman is a crime, I'd say." He moved to place a friendly hand upon her shoulder, a friendly gesture. Though, his eyes glanced to spot what he was expecting. He had gotten the attention of the grey skinned man, who now looked their way and sat with his back utterly straight.

"HMM!"

The noise he made held the tone of scoldingly calling out a name. Slick's name, most likely. Moving so quickly that he almost fell upon his face, he moved to plot beside Ciya and moved Slick's arm away- only to wrap his arms around her and place his face against her side, an eye visibly glaring at Slick. The message was utterly clear. "MINE!"

Slick couldn't stop the bubbling laughter that came from his chest, moving to wipe a tear from the corner of his eye.

"Oh my, it seems I made our grey one jealous!"

**PhoenixAshes**

She reached out and put her hand on his shoulder, trying to give what little comfort she could, but the motion was short, since she was still not entirely comfortable with it. However, the witch didn't like to see him crest fallen like that. After all, he couldn't have known--most people didn't. "Look--I promised to help where I couldn't, didn't I? And I will." However, there didn't seem to be much more left to their conversation as he'd noticed the naga's friendly hand on the pixie.

The witch had to clamp her hand over her mouth to keep from laughing outright at Franky's scramble to get to Ciya. One thing was for sure--he did care about her a lot, enough to even protect her from nonthreatening things. Maybe those two should just be together--who knew?

Ciya on the other hand was a little bit shocked at the sudden appearance of the grey man. Her confused honey gaze went over to her female friend, who laughed just a little bit harder along with Slick. Eventually, Ciya giggled a bit too and patted the back of the one embracing her. "He couldn't steal me if he wanted to, Franky." The words were cooed, in attempt to coax him to stop squeezing her so hard--he did have quite the grip.

**FrankenSoul**

"Now I don't know about THAT~" Slick gave her a little wink. Gods his cheeks were hurting from smiling so much. He hadn't had such a good time in a long while. Franky seemed oblivious to the comedy he was providing, content to stay where he was and squeeze Ciya protectively. He KNEW Slick. The snake man could be a flirt and a tease when he wanted to, and he was NOT going to do that with the innocent pixie!

Oh... oh but he was making a fool of himself wasn't he? Once again he found the sensation of heat on his face and carefully unwrapped himself from Ciya. Though he leaned against her all the same, giving Slick a slight evil eye.

The naga grinned. He had hoped to push Franky into doing such a thing. What fun this was...

Finishing his meal, and making pleasant conversation, Slick patted his belly and let out a content sigh. As he had said, it had been well forth the wait. Sliding himself slowly onto the ground and stretching out to bask in the sun, he yawned.

"Hmm... I suppose Franky will be staying here for now then? For how long do you think? I'd like to continue to visit. And I'm sure Lu would like to come by, seeing as he lives not so far from here. Ah," He glanced at the two women. "Lu being a... friendly giant that naturally became friends with Franky. Naturally."

**PhoenixAshes**

Finding herself to be pleased at Franky's reaction was something she truly hadn't expected. It felt too soon for her to like that he wanted to keep her to himself and yet, here she was, completely fine with him clinging to her, trying to console him. As he let go, she blushed a bit, and tried to focus on what was left on her meal. However, she did allow her side to press against Franky's quite a bit.

"Alright." Vivica put her hands in the air in something like defeat while perfectly balancing the bowl on her knees. "You two should just be together."

The pixie flushed a deeper shade of red. "VIV!"

The witch laughed again and slowly the conversation returned to more normal topics.

"So far Ciya gave him an indefinite invitation." Vivica replied to Slick. " He can basically come and go now until one of us revokes it."

At the mention of yet another person Franky knew, Ciya perked up a bit. "They sound nice."

"Our circle of people seems to just keep growing..." The witch mused.

**FrankenSoul**

It really wasn't all too harmful in regards to Franky's behavior. He simply didn't want SLICK trying to make any moves on her. Dangerous and unhealthy if he managed to get a spark from her, even if it was playful. He half wished he could stick his tongue out.

At Vivica's "outburst," he merely gave his broad smile and a sound that suspiciously resembled "Heeeeeeeeeh". His shoulder shook as he made a strange sound that was a mix of grunting and low chuckling. Laughter?

Turning his attention away for the moment, Franky had become very interested in a small spotted worm crawling close to him as Slick spoke.

The snake man himself grinned and rolled his shoulders in a shrug. "Oh yes, don't expect to be a hermit if you know him. Though he is silent, his nature seems to bring others together. If you haven't noticed."

Turning to the mentioned friend, he spoke a bit louder to get his attention. "You should come up and visit Lu with me one day. I must go back to Jozef and Lu lives close by. We might travel together perhaps."

Franky's eyes lit up at the prospect of seeing his old friend. Instead of making Lu travel all the way here, go there to meet him... That might work! And maybe he could even say hi to Jozef too! Oh... but..
He moved an arm around Ciya, squeezing her somewhat and letting out a low whine. The message was very obvious. "I don't want to leave Ciya though!"
Slick laughed out his words, amusement clear. "Yes you can bring her too if she wants to go. And Vivica, I extend that to you also. Perhaps you'll get to stroke my tail a bit more~"

Ciya smiled brightly at the suggestion and Franky's hold that showed his reluctance to leave her. "That'd be good! We haven't actually left here in a while..." Her honey gaze turned to her witch friend, who clearly seemed unsure about the whole thing. "Viv, what do you think?"
"I think Slick's tail is a bad bargaining-chip, as it's not something one can keep." She teased back at the Naga, since he clearly was not going to let her interest in him go. As she started to seriously debate the prospect and the pixie's enthusiasm, she sighed heavily. It had been a while since either young woman had traveled anywhere far. Ciya usually went to the edge of the wastelands, but that really wasn't the longest journey, she could go there and be home fast, but Vivica had only left the safety of their barrier only when necessary, and even then it was only into the forests around their home. This sounded like something quite a bit bigger.

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