Undergrowth (Log 14)

**FrankenSoul**

Her actions surprised both Slick and Jozef, who shared a brief glance. The golem shuffled in place, uttering something low under his breath and moving to make a waving motion. "Appreciate the apology, but you don't need to. Spices me dull life up anyhow."

Plus, he wanted to be able to help. If his home offered them a safe place to linger, or at least mostly safe, he was glad to lose a few things to do so. But her words were considerate anyhow, and he was thankful.

His neck creaked as he turned to peer at Franky, who had put the book down and taken Ciya's hands to move them between his own in an action of affection. Likely, to reassure her no matter what he would continue to love her. Bah, the fool. He couldn't think like that. The possibilities for other bad things to happen were strong. Jozef would give his own opinion now, but first he wanted to ask something.

"Franky," He spoke, the undead turning to face him. In a grave voice, Jozef continued, "Are you willing to risk everything for this? In the end, it's your life. Not mine. Not Slick's. Not even hers." He inclinded his head towards Ciya, meaning no bitterness by his words. But they were true. In the end, it was what Franky wanted. It could affect them all, sure, but not as much as himself.

Franky hesitated. Slowly, he withdrew his booklet and wrote. Jozef could read the large words very easily, so he suspected the others could too.

'Yes. I've carried a sort of emptiness with me for so long. It eats away at me every day, and I fear that if I don't take this chance now it eventually will drive me to insanity. I'm confident that I'll be okay. No past of mine can separate me from the new bonds I've created with all of you.'

Jozef grunted. A good answer, but once again a very optimistic one. So much could go wrong, but it was his decision. "Very well. I offer you my help then. If you so decide to call forth this Lin, I will be there. Let's see what he can get way with when a giant golem is standing guard, eh?"

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch, still apologetic in expression, nodded at the wave off of her words, having already noted the look that had passed between their golem host and the naga. At this point, it was all she could offer. It seemed everything was balanced upon their stitched companion.

Ciya hinted a smile at the comfort of Franky's hands around her own and gently squeezed them in thanks. It was little things like that she quietly loved and worried might go after a time or sooner if his old self wasn't for these sorts of things. Still, such a touch made her believe that there would be little change between them in this respect.

At Jozef's question, her honey eyes flicked from the asker back to her loved one, giving a sign of agreement. This was his choice.

The attention of the worried witch, the supportive pixie and the long-time friend naga stayed on the reciever and his writing. It felt slow, for Ciya especially.

A small sigh in partial relief, part anxiousness, left the cornsilk blonde as she read the bigger letters. "Would you?" She asked in a hopeful tone, her gaze flicking to their host. Having seen what Lin could do, Ciya felt far better about having Jozef with her and Franky when that stranger was called back. "Really?"

**FrankenSoul**

"Yes." Jozef creaked loudly as he leaned closer. If he had a proper mouth he would smile, but for now he would settle for allowing his flames to simmer lower to a comfortable heat. "I am largely immune to magical attacks, which has been proven useful before. I will help. Franky is my family, and my extension so are you and Miss Vivica. I won't allow a fiend to harm those who have done no wrong. I will not allow them to harm those I care for."

A moment later, the golem sputtered and pulled away, his flames resuming their previous state. The undead and snake were looking at him with gazes he didn't care for!

Slick didn't even attempt to hide his grin, openly laughing under his breath and giving Jozef's arm a brisk pat. "You old softy. Naturally, I'll be there too." He turned, throwing a sudden and sharp stare in Franky's direction. "I think you're making a mistake. But I've made plenty myself, and I'll be there to help if I can."

The undead couldn't handle it. He smiled as broadly as he could, a hand pushed over his heart. All this warmth was just too much for Franky. So many people who cared... When had he amassed such a family together?

He gave a firm nod. They would support him through it then and he couldn't be more grateful. Turning, he lightly touched Ciya's shoulder and attempted to look deep into her eyes. She was anxious. But of course she was. He had seen her flinch at the mention of his mind changing, changing about her. She would support him too, but she had already done so much... Taking up his booklet, he tilted it so only she could read his words now.

'It's all going to end well. No resurfaced memories can change what you've done for me. No matter what happens, I'll always love you. I promise.'

**PhoenixAshes**

"Thank you, Jozef." The pixie smiled, touched by the sentiment. They had caused so much trouble for him, her especially with the whole book fiasco, but to hear Jozef say such at thing was sort of like being forgiven. She could cry if she let herself.

Vivica reached forward and patted her friend's arm gently. A feeling of happiness at all that was said exuding from her, "Better count me in for help as well."

Ciya blinked looking from voice to voice and then to Franky at his touch. As nervous as she still was, there was such an affection in her eyes now which nearly spilled over at the promise written. Suddenly, he'd find himself with her arms around him again. Ah, Franky. Her sweet Franky.

With everyone at his side, there was no way this could fail, however uncertain this may be.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh! There was the hug. He did so like the hug. Making a low hum of happiness, he leaned his head against her and attempted to move his hands to embrace her back somewhat. He shared her thoughts. Together, they were strong. So what could go wrong?

Jozef insisted that they wait before trying to summon Lin. It had already been a long day, and they all looked bone tired. Get a good rest that night and then summon Lin, Jozef told them. This would also allow him to prepare himself too, feeding his flames wood through the night until they would be hot enough to melt metal. He just DARED this man to try anything. It would be the last action he took.

Slick was happy enough to lay down and sleep, though he asked Vivica to help him make a sleeping draught to sooth him as the bad feeling in his stomach persisted. He did so miss fitting on beds now, but it was fine as he curled up on himself on the floor and used his own tail as a pillow. As always, Franky lingered close to Ciya, but knew he wouldn't sleep that night though he insisted she should try. He attempted to sooth her with deep throated sounds, gentle gestures and strokes, and his presense before he finally watched her begin to fade. When he was sure she wasn't too aware, he pulled forth the book from his jacket and frowned down at it. It still made him uneasy. Flipping it open, he stared at the name. Luke Cromwell.

Finally, it came time for the deed to be done. The morning came and Jozef told all to prepare themselves. Slick prepared a morning meal, somehow managing to make muffins complete with blueberries. There was no sense facing a foe on an empty stomach, right?

Their troop moved towards the edge of the forest, past the flowers and far away enough from the grave that they wouldn't disturb it with any action. Franky felt a stab of guilt as he witnessed dead spots now littered among the otherwise flourishing flowers. Hopefully, they would grow back in time. Franky had thought they would stop at the edge, but Jozef urged them onward. Giving a light frown and switching looks with the others, Franky followed until they came onto a smaller glade. The space was big enough for them all to stand and a dozen more, the trees forming walls to shield them from the outside world. Jozef turned and gestured. "Here. If there's a fight, I won't risk my home or flowers being damaged."

Aaah. Franky nodded. That was fair.

The hated book was pulled against his chest, the contact causing his chest to echo with the memory of coldness. Franky turned to Ciya, trying to arrange his face to reflect his determination rather than his intense fear. He held the book out between them and placed his other hand upon it, waiting for her to do the same before she called Lin. They didn't NEED to touch the thing, but it felt... right. It was assumed she would be the one to call out for Franky where he could not. Now it was up to her.

**PhoenixAshes**

There was very little argument at Jozef's suggestion for all to rest. It'd be better to face this oncoming situation with alertness.

The witch mentioned as much to Slick as she worked up the daught for him, while wondering if the feeling he complained of was caused by stress from this new information or as a longer side effect of his return to normal form. Either way, she hoped what she whiped up would help.

Her rest came curled up on the sofa, having forfeited the bed in the other room so her pixie friend and Franky could stay together, and so she could keep an eye on the effectiveness of her concotion given to the naga.

Franky being close helped the pixie drift rather easily, despite her anxiousness. Chasing away her worries until morning.

Soon enough, it was time. While they crossed, the pixie had kept her hand tightly in the witch's. They'd crossed many of dark paths this way, before all this. When it was just them in the creepier part of the woods back home near the wastes searching for needed plants. That felt so long ago now. However, the familiar feeling of her friend less than arm's length on one side and newer comfort of Franky on the other, along with the towering presence of Jozef and the lesser of Slick was quite helpful in warding off the worst of anxousness.

As they walked she mulled over what Lin had said. He was "a shout" away ,he'd said. A shout away. Well, that must be up to her then since Franky--Franky looking her way and seeming so sure-- couldn't shout.

As he held out the book, she hesitated, almost afraid to touch it again, regardless of it's lessened evil.

There was a squeeze on her other hand and then a complete release, a reminder from the witch that there was protection all around for them. That reassurance, and the steady look from her beloved, made the pixie reach and put her hand over Franky's. "Ready?" She asked him in a whisper.

**FrankenSoul**

Ready... as he would ever be. He gave a small and firm nod, willing his hands to stay stable. No more trembling. No more crying. The agony would end here and now. He wouldn't allow this to haunt him any longer. Not when he was surrounded by those he loved, looking into the eyes of the one he wanted to stay with forever.

She called out, the name short and crisp but causing a shudder down Franky's spine anyway. They waited.

He heard nothing but the sound of the wind cutting through the trees, as even the birds had gone quiet. Under his touch, Franky swore he could feel the book twitch before becoming still. But, nothing else. The moment stretched longer and longer, and with some relief and disappointment, Franky began to draw his hand away. So it was nothing after all. Just the mad ravings of-

The bushes behind rustled, and with a sharp turn and tense form he witnessed the same as before entering their glade. Lin walked with a straight back and friendly smile, his white robes billowing as he strode forward. Emerging from the darkness of the trees and following his footsteps were two similarly clad beings. They loomed much taller over the man, but one would be unable to see their true features as their faces were covered in thick hoods and their bodies in the same white cloth. Slick clicked his teeth the moment he spotted them, his hands clenching nervously. Those where the same beings he had spotted before, having thought they were just a cult.

As the confident and yet relaxed man stood before them, Franky felt a familiar urge beginning to take over his senses at the sight of a human being. Quickly, he clasped his hand across his eyes and turned his face, willing himself to stop. He had a hunch that Lin wouldn't pause to strike him as he had done before if it was needed, but Franky would prefer having control over his body.

The pale man's gaze looked over each of them in turn, lingering longer upon Jozef before the man gave a lighthearted and short laugh. "What a group to see! So many different beings, gathered here today. A naga, pixie, witch, undead, and now even a golem!" Lin's expression softened, but his curiosity wasn't so easily covered as he eyed the metal man. "I haven't seen one of you in a very long time. Are you left over from the war to the north perhaps...? I'd very much like to understand the magic that keeps you operating so long."

Jozef shifted where he stood and said nothing, but his flames very visible began to grow in size and heat. Oh yes, he was sure this mage would love to understand him and his enchantments, but no one deserved such power. Especially not one with such an uneasy smile.

Waving off the reaction, Lin instead now turned his gaze to the struggling Franky. The undead had taken Ciya's hand, and from the touch began to relax. It was remarkable how far he'd come, really, when only weeks before the sight of Vivica had sent him at once into a bloodlust. Lin kept the observation to himself, inclining his head in greeting towards Ciya. "I suppose you've told the others of me by this point, and my intentions...? I'm so very glad to see you've come to trust me! You won't regret it. If I may approach...?"

He motioned for himself and his followers to move to Franky, but he wouldn't move just yet without verbal permission. Not with so many crowding around him, looking ready to remove his head from his body.

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie's showed no warmth for Lin, her expression contorting slightly when he mentioned "trust". "I'll be clear, I don't trust you. But," Gently, her hand intertwined with Franky's held tighter. Her trust was in this hold and in the familiar group around her, not the unsettling strangers now standing before them. "The decision has been made." She looked to those on her side then to the looming robed figures with Lin. "What are they here for?" Perhaps he'd expected such a turn out.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh yes, he could see very well the decision had been made... and he couldn't be more pleased about it. This was very good. He had been afraid that he might have had to... Ah, but he best not even fret over it. Fate hadn't moved that way, and now it would be very easy to do what must be done.

At Ciya's glance towards the robed figures, Lin looked back as if only just remembering they were there. "Ah! Yes, well you see..." He reached inside his own clothing and withdrew a long and slender vial. Inside was a strange, green colored liquid that continued to bubble in the closed space. He smiled larger, swirling the contents. "I have the potion here for James. We'll need to restrain him in order to give it to him, though. Undoing the stitches will cause a, ah..." How to explain it without outright causing them to panic? "-a very strong reaction. I've brought my associates to restrain him until he swallows this."

From where he ducked his head, Franky flinched. Just the very thought of someone touching his mouth made him tense. To have someone try to undo it? Yes, he supposed... He supposed it was a good idea to bring help. But he still didn't like the thought of two strangers holding him down.

Watching it all, Slick piped up and spoke charmingly, voice pleasant. "Why not allow our friend some comfort and let his friends hold him...? I feel Jozef and I could do it well enough."

From his side, Jozef's head creaked in a nod.

Lin lifted a brow. "Are you quite sure...? He will be very unmanageable, and I hope you've seen his inhuman strength."

"Well, neither of us are human either, so that works out fine." Slick's tone was just as oiled as Lin's and to anyone observing it was like watching two predators waiting for the other to show weakness before striking. Lin did so first, tilting his head and bobbing his head. "Very well. Ciya, my dear? Could you guide him towards his two friends so that we may begin?"

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch squinted at the vial suspiciously, watching it bubble. There wasn't very much that would naturally react that way in a small space for however long Lin had it.

Unease settled in her further as the odd man explained what must be done.

At Franky's flinch the pixie turned more to him and placed her hand on his nearest shoulder in attempt to sooth him. The idea of him being restrained while they stood back did not sit well with her. Thankfully their naga friend spoke up, offering another solution.

Lin calling her "my dear" made her skin crawl, tingling like spider legs. Still, she looked first to Slick then Jozef her free hand motioning for them.

**FrankenSoul**

Jozef and Slick shared a glance before moving at her motion, arriving at either side of their cowering friend. Slick felt a ping in his chest, but did as he needed by wrapping his arms around Fanky's left limb and partially locking his shoulder into place. On the other side, Jozef used a single large hand to do the same. Franky at once stiffened, trying to stop himself from emitting forth a low whine. He wanted to hold Ciya's hand desperately, but now was the time to be strong. He could do this. He could.

Lin took her place, standing before Franky. His "friends" lingered where they were, waiting to be called if they were needed. He was glad he brought them. He hadn't planned on Franky bringing an army with him...
It was time to begin. Reaching inside his clothes again, Lin now withdrew a small, gleaming knife. Slick lifted a lip, allowing a fang to slip into sight in warning. The older gentleman took the warning, and before he did anything further he asked one last time. "Are you sure you want this? It's going to be... difficult for you. Worse than anything you've been through before."

Did he... want this? Despite Franky's eyes being shut tightly, his conflict was easy to read. One last chance to turn back. One last chance to say no. But... But he couldn't. Not when his past was finally in reach, and with it perhaps a future with someone he loved more than anything. Was he sure? Damn right he was. His nod was firm, his expression soothing. He WOULD do this.

Pleased, Lin leaned closer. Franky felt the shift in air, and continued to tense as the sensation of something coming closer grew worse and worse. He continued breathing, forcing his lungs to do it in slow patterns. In and out. Calm. Stay calm. He could-

"ARGH!"

The muffled cry shot from his throat as Lin's slim fingers brushed against his lips. His entire body went ridged, his arms tensing and wanting to lash out. From one touch alone he reacted this way, and seeing his distress Lin began to move in swift and accurate motions to minimize discomfort. The knife plucked at the edge of the rightmost stitch, and it was split. Then another, and another. At this point, Franky's mind was leaving him. The sensation of his mouth coming undone was unbearable, bringing up a panic that threatened to blot out everything. He clutched at his mind, clawing and desperate for it to stay but it continued to slip away until finally he was lost.

A snarl ripped forth from him, somewhat louder now that part of his mouth had been opened. His eyes shot open, and Slick flinched as he saw that they were white. Either his eyes were rolled back, or this was some sort of magical effect. His expression was that of anger and fury, the same as it was after he had spotted a human. The snake man didn't get too much time to think on it as he grunted from effort to keep Franky's arm in place, and even Jozef creaked in strain.

"Franky!" Slick yelled, struggling to pull his arm back. "Calm down! It's okay!"

It was no use now. He had gone into a different mode and actively struggled, huffing and growling. He had to get away! He had to get away now! This wasn't right, bad things were going to happen! He- Lin's hand clamped onto his chin, stronger than the man's slim fingers would have hinted. "Push him down, quickly before he hurts someone."

Slick and Jozef weren't too happy with it, but they complied and soon Franky would find himself shoved down to his knees so that he couldn't lash out that way.

Lin crouched and moved the knife back to Franky's lips, but had to go slower now in order not to cut something accidentally. Another stitch was gone, and another until only the other half remained. Now, Franky struggled even stronger, desperate to get away. His mouth opened wider than it had in a very long time, and without pause he began to scream. The sound caused Slick and Jozef to flinch, the wailing of a hurt animal and a terrified child rolled into one. With his head thrown back, the cry rose and didn't stop, seemingly not needing to pause for air. In the position, Lin tried to continue, and Franky's round and moist eyes were faced in the direction of Ciya. Without the blue to show direction, it was impossible to tell if he was staring at her, and yet one could feel that he was begging for her to make it stop.

"Hold him steady!" Lin called past the noise, struggling to continue without cutting off Franky's nose. Slick was sweating now, using every inch of his strength to hold Franky and Jozef now needing to hold on with both hands. "Hurry up!" Slick hissed. "I don't know how much longer we can keep this up!"

**PhoenixAshes**

Reluctantly the pixie relinquished her supportive clasp to the firmer clutch of the other two. Wrapping her other hand around the one that had just been holding Franky's, as if trying to keep the sensation of it in place, she brought them to her chest in attempt to ease the rise of her heart beat. She'd backed into the open arm of her witch friend, who immediately encircled her despite not looking at what was happening with Franky or Lin.

Instead, her dark eyes were fixed on the other unidentified two like a sentinel. With Slick and Jozef having to deal with Franky, Vivica was the only defense the group had for the moment. She'd keep that charge too.

Ciya's breath stilled at the sight of the knife and the question. At Franky's nod she bit down on her bottom lip, in preparation for what was coming. Hold fast, her mind pleaded to Franky. She wasn't sure why a ridiculous and unrelated phrase sailors used was her prayer for him, but it was--at this point anything would help. The cry made her jolt and make a half step his way. Even with all who cared for him present, this was something Franky would experience alone.

More sounds and her hands clenched, one in on itself the other around it; it was all she could do to keep herself from rushing forward, forcing Lin away and undoing everything that Franky had worked for so far. The sight of his fear made her tremble. His ferocity when rage hit hadn't such an effect, nor had his deep sadness of what memories he had, but this, this was far different--- then the scream.

It chilled her to the core, freezing her in place while every living instinct raged inside, begging her to run, to flee from such a sound. The white and empty gaze was worst of all, her own sight fixed there.

No, no! Stop! Stop it! It's too much stop! No voice could come from her parted lips.

Despite all other things warning her against it, something more moved her. Forward, forward, until she was close again.

Her hands unfolded and came down to hovering over both sides of his head and she knelt, still staring. This wouldn't help, she thought. This couldn't help. He was out of his mind with fear and reaction to the deepest impulse ingrained in his mind. They weren't just undoing the stitches at his lips they were undoing him.

"Franky..." Ciya's voice shook as she spoke his name, the lightest touch of her fingers upon his hair. Not enough. There was no sign of ease. "Franky, easy." She tried again, her touch firmer and her vocals even. Nothing, nothing. "Franky, please..." It was hard to take that empty look much more. Closing her wet eyes she held his head still, and pressed her forehead to his. Staying out of Lin's way. Like she'd thought, the action was useless, reckless even, it did nothing to help him. Quietly she was murmuring his name, over and over, trying to reach him. Suddenly she stopped, took a breath. "James." Perhaps he'd respond to this.

**FrankenSoul**

What was that fool of a girl doing? Lin saw her move towards them and thought for a moment there would be trouble. Was she going to leap at them and try to stop this, after they had already made it so far? That would be the worst thing she could do right now.

But no. She was attempting to sooth him instead. Perhaps that could help then, yes, and Lin found himself curious of how far her presence could go to comfort him. Not far enough it seemed. Franky continued undaunted, and in fact at further touching only seemed to howl all the louder. Lin wondered at the strange touch of foreheads before remembering that they'd done it before. Their "kiss," so to say. Adorable, and for a second Lin thought it would work as Franky's form relaxed just a fraction. The struggle resumed quickly, and even the special gesture was lost on the undead.

Lin scoffed, looking at the work he had done. Most of the stiches had been undone. There was enough room for Franky to drink now, but it would be best to get them all out in one swoop so that they all wouldn't have to go through this again. Crouching low, he prepared to finish what had been started this day.

The name had some kind of effect. To everyone's relief, he went completely still at the sound of it and the unbearable noise he produced went silent.

His sight seemed to clear and focus, though the blue had yet to return, and he looked at her as if for the first time...

Slick was sent flying with a sudden heft, his form flipping at an angle, as Franky was able to throw him with one arm.

Slick yelped as he hit a tree hard with his back, his breath knocked from his lungs as he fell to the ground. The surge of strength had surprised him, and the world was spinning. Franky bent forward to rip himself away from Ciya's grasp, swiftly bringing his skull down against Lin's own with a reverting BANG. The impact was enough to even burst skin, and a flash of red was visible on the man's forehead that he touched with a faint smile before falling backwards himself.

"FRANKY! STOP!" Jozef bellowed and reached out to push his friend down with all of his own metallic weight, but Franky was now largely freed and ready to fight. Sliding his leg and shifting his weight, he kicked with tremendous force such that Jozef's entire body tilted to the side from the momentum and continued onward, unable to stop now that his center of balance had shifted. He hit the ground hard now with a sound of echoing metal, and attempted to slowly push himself back up.

Franky jumped to his feet, shoulders heaving with unneeded breaths. His wild gaze jerked about, purposely avoiding Ciya before falling on Vivica. Vivica, one he KNEW to be human despite her disguise. A gargled cry emitted forth from his throat, his hands curled at his sides and his lips peeling back to show strangely white teeth and colorless flesh beyond them. Lin had managed to pull away the last stitch just before Franky had moved, and now he seemed prepared to use it to harm. He wasted no further time and pounced, throwing himself forward with arms outstretched in an attempt to pin her to the ground with his body. It was an all-or-nothing move, for if he missed he wouldn’t be able to stop for several yards, as if he were a bull charging.

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie, now unbalanced as Franky ripped himself from her, went down on her knees, her hands catching her before falling completely to the ground. She moved back just in time to see him remove Jozef's weight from him. Her eyes widening at the sight. Yes, he'd moved a tree before but Jozef was far heavier than that--was this really his strength?

Her attention turned with his, and fear sent a shock of urgency through her. " VIV !" She cried in warning, unable to do much else.

Vivica had not needed it, she'd been preparing. Not for Franky, but for those strangers in white--either way it would save her now. "Be still!" She commanded, throwing her hands up in the direction of the charging terror Franky had become, palms flat and fingers spread.

The spell, the cast, was powerful enough to be visible, surrounding Franky in a reflective, wobbling substance that appeared as thin as waves of heat radiating off of stone in the deepest heat of summer or just above the edges of flame. She her hands shook, but the witch held. In a push she moved the force in attempt to lift Franky off his feet. This cast had been meant for two towering men who were possibly as powerful as Lin had shown to be with magic, this should hold Franky.

**FrankenSoul**

He was obviously less than pleased about the situation. The moment his momentum failed him and he was forced to a stop, he paused and looked around in confusion. He couldn't pinpoint that Vivica herself was the source of his conflict, and as such reacted like any caged animal might. Again he put his newly undone mouth to use and began to snarl viciously, prepared to fight for his life. His feet left the ground and he became FAR less happy still, bringing his arms back to pound hard on the edges of the barrier. With everything he had he struggled, ramming his shoulder against the spells sides to try and undo. He wanted out NOW!

From where Lin lay, he lifted his head somewhat to squint and see the scene before him. Oh no. Oh, this was rather bad indeed. Not how he wanted this to play out at all. He'd need to fix this quickly. Looking towards one of the robed figures, Lin lifted a hand and made the smallest of gestures. The figure nodded, and without hesitation moved.

Vivica would find two thick arms latching around her, forcing her own arms to be pinned against her torso in a bearhug. The robed figure remained there, having been sent to attack her at Lin's movement. The second her limbs were pushed, her spell broke with a mild popping sound and Franky crashed hard onto his feet. Tense and hunched, he looked about for another challenge. Lin sat up somewhat, sighing and rubbing his eyes.

"I hate when things get so violent. It gives me such a headache. Experiment 39, fetch the undead for me so that we-" He stopped as Jozef, freshly pushed to his feet, held a tight fist over his head in a threatening pose. His fire burned brightly, eyes literally blazing. "Tell your goons to release my family, or I will crush and burn you alive."

Lin felt a shiver of fear, but retained his smile. There was no way he could stop a hit from this golem.

"Oh. Yes, very well. Apologies, I didn't mean offense." A gesture, and Vivica was allowed free, the figure withdrawing a few steps. Despite this, Jozef kept his position, not ready to relax just yet.

From the edge of his sight, Lin caught Franky's movements through this all. He seemed to want to lunge forward and attack them all, but also pausing to touch his face and mouth in confusion. When he finally spotted Ciya and stared at her for a long second, something clicked within him and he turned on his heels to flee. Crashing through the forest, his strength translated well into speed as his body quickly was swallowed by the green of the woods. Lin's smile plucked at his face. Ah, so a game of hide-and-seek? He could gladly play.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica jerked every time Franky hit the edges, moving in whichever way the force was made. "I'm sorry, Franky..." She said gently, her attention fixed, just incase he was strong enough to get out. She doubted it, but she'd been wrong about the potency of her spells before.

The suddenness of arms around her spiked fear that contorted her expression oddly and provoked a scream. "Get off!" Pressure on her arms made her realize its goal. "No! No! Don't! He'll be loose! Stop!" The pleading was to no avail, she was stuck, pinned in unfamiliar arms that she was not comfortable having around her. Vivica struggled fiercely, writhing and kicking. "Let go!"

Once she was released, per Lin's orders, she scurried like a frightened creature over to where Slick had been thrown, getting as far from reach and target as she reasonably could. Her breaths were shaky and shallow as the one line she needed to be uncrossed had been.

Ciya, had taken a few rushed steps forward, with every intent to pry the robed man away from her panicking friend, but Jozef had taken far better care of that than she could. Now she stood still, watching Franky and the bewildered search his touch made over him. When he leveled on her, she reached forward, beckoning and hoping he'd calmed enough to come to her, only to watch him dart off quicker than a frightened deer.

**FrankenSoul**

Where Slick lay bruised and feeling broken, he actively tried to protect Vivica as she neared him. He motioned for her to sit next to him, moving his tail protectively like a barrier between her and the unwinding scene, a low hiss issuing forth from his mouth. Those bastards! How dare they do that to her!

Well... none of this had gone according to plan. Not one shred. But he could work with it. Lin shifted where he lay as it to stand, only to pause further when Jozef flinched his hand in a threat. He wasn't going anywhere until he could answer some questions. Now. "Explain." The golem commanded, venom in his tone.

Explain what had all just occurred, and why Lin looked far too pleased about it all. Explain, and then correct it.

Pausing, Lin uttered a low sigh. He saw a few options to get out of this, but each one seemed far too risky with his own life in the balance. No, he would tell the truth now. Or a certain version of it. "Very well. One moment. Experiments, leave and return home."

At his words, both hooded figured stiffened and with brisk turns vanished as quickly as Franky had into the dark of the forest. Now that part of the threat had been handled, Lin hoped it would put them at ease somewhat. He smiled, moving to press a hand against the wound of his head that throbbed with every heartbeat.

"Yes, well, you all know of his... tendency to panic. It's not a normal state. As an undead, I've found that they have a natural tendency to behave... darkly. Each of them has a deep hunger that no food can stop. So they attack in order to feed endlessly, invoking a braindead state that you've witnessed. With Franky's stitched mouth, he seemed to be able to hold back this urge to consume and only be 'triggered' by certain events. I suspected that by releasing his mouth, he might revert again, but I had hoped to cure with the potion before he could damage anyone."

Jozef balked at what he heard. Eating? Striking out? And Lin KNEW of it and didn't tell them? There were many things Jozef wanted to address, but tried to approach the most important for now. "Why did you stop Miss Vivica just now?"

"Ah. That." Caught. Lin drew his hand away to gaze at the blood, before pressing and keeping the pressure on again. His smile grew somewhat larger. "I only wanted to make sure that Franky wasn't going to harm her or himself." And, to test a theory he would need Franky to be free and this group to be defenseless. Jozef knew his words were lies, and he openly debated on ending the man. He held his spot for now and spoke carefully.

"He attacked Vivica. And, according to you, his kind needs to feast. So then, what they eat is-"

"Flesh." Lin finished for him, saying the word easily. "Preferably, human flesh. I suspect that your friend is actively seeking out the next one he can find. If he comes upon a village, I shudder to think of the carnage he'll cause."

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch dropped without much more invitation than she was given by him. She'd help the hurt Slick in a moment, but at the moment she was far to shakey to do anything as evidenced by the way she curled in on herself as she sat. Her hair falling forward to hide her face as her head bowed, ashamed for loosing her calm and for not noticing that thing, that 'experiment', coming around to grip her. Had she seen either this may not have gone so badly.

Ciya's honey gazed watched worriedly into the trees. With how fast Franky had been going he could be quite a way by now. Her heart ached for him.
Something crept into her mind. They had him! Viv had him steady, even if he was fighting--so why? The pixie turned and stared harshly at Lin just as Jozef demanded explanation. She wanted it too.

As each word was spoken, Ciya's fists closed harder and tighter. Lin knew this and took no precautions. At his reason for why he'd sent the experiment to Vivica, she felt her nails bite into her skin. Liar. She accused with a narrowing gaze.

Her steps were firm on the ground as she crossed to Lin and Jozef, a heat within making the pixie have one purpose only in that moment. Her hand opened flat, raised high and then her arm swung the hardest it had ever been at another living being, the impact aimed at Lin's cheek.

"You parasite!" The words were not yelled, but the dry anger she had was far more dangerous.

**FrankenSoul**

Slick's tail curled further around the witch, though he was careful not to touch her or squeeze her and rather provide a safe space. Like an injured animal, he lay stiffly but allowed his coils to still produce some sort of use. If he had a rattle, it would be shaking violently at the thought of all that had just occurred. Gingerly, he pushed himself up and looked upon Vivica with a tender gaze. He wasn't sure if he would be allowed to touch and comfort her, and decided for now to just wait for her and mumble soothing and comforting words. She was okay. She was safe. Nothing was going to hurt her here.

The blow hit with a loud sound, causing Lin's face to snap and for fresh blood to appear at the wound on his head. His eyes closed tightly but he still saw a burst of color as his wounded skull was jostled and was now accompanied by a blood red bring on his pale skin. Gathering himself, he tenderly touched at the new wound and infuriating smiled again.

"Such fire, my dear Ciya. Though you're aiming it at the wrong person. I want him cured, the same as you. I didn't plan for him to run and harm other innocent people. If there's anyone you should hate, it is Luke Cromwell who is the root of all of this. Do you still wish to help your friend? Look there." Lin extended a hand, pointing towards something on the ground.

Jozef turned his head somewhat to try and see what was being gestured at. Ah. The book? It must have fallen out onto the grass after all the turmoil.

Lin continued on pleasantly. "It can take you to him. All you must do is ask. And I swear on my own life that this," He reached inside his robe once again and produced the vial of bubbling substance. "IS a cure. I want him to remember, I give you my word. And I offer it to you now in hopes that you can use it to stop him." He extended it outwards towards Ciya, smile dropping somewhat. "I wound hurry though. He's likely running further and further away as we speak."

**PhoenixAshes**

She lifted her head to look at the naga, her breathing even now but her face still showing signs of perceived guilt, which would pass as well soon. A careful scoot back brought her into contact with him, but lightly as not to hurt him or have any other negative effect. Slick's actions had helped quite a bit more than he could know.

The pixie was about ready to fly her hand again when Lin smiled that insulting grin. Her hate was misplaced? Doubtful. He'd caused more harm than good within the last two days than anyone she ever knew had caused in a life time. Still, she turned her head to see the book. That thing....she could spit at it right now if she hadn't the control.

Her gaze was still harsh as she turned back, snatching the vial from Lin. "Let him run. I can fly." That was the last she would say to him, for now she looked to Jozef, anger leaving as it was not directed at the metal man. Instead determination. "Jozef, please watch this man," She spoke the word like she doubted Lin's humanity," like a hawk. Don't let him leave."

She away and walked a few steps. "Viv." Her voice was far softer now. "Take care of Slick and yourself. Okay?"

The witch nodded, concern for her dear friend showing through. Still, she let the pixie go and pick up the book.

Ciya stood still for a moment, staring down at the bound pages "you took more than you needed before, you're in my debt. Now...guide me." Her head lifted, focused on the green trees a sprint ahead. Uncertainty filled her. She hadn't run on her leg since it had fully healed, and she'd been slower since the blood incident--but she needed to call her wings if she was to reach Franky in time. A deep breath in, and then out. No time to think about it. She'd done so many reckless and downright stupid things--it was time for another one.

She began her run, gaining momentum until just far enough back for her to clear the tree's she lept, and didn't touch the ground again. Finally she had enough strength. She'd find him now.

**FrankenSoul**

There she was. She was doing better now. Since she now touched him first, he felt confident enough to wrap his coils just a bit tighter to add support to where she sat and to almost give her a long hug. His hands reached for her own and squeezed somewhat. He would skin that man alive for causing Vivica to have an episode like this! She was recovering though, slowly. As Ciya spoke towards them, in a groaning voice he called for her to be careful. No one else needed to get hurt today.

Jozef nodded at Ciya's commands. He had already guessed what she was about to do, and he wouldn't protest. He doubted he could stop her anyway. Lin almost openly laughed. Oh, he wasn't going anywhere. No, he would stay right here and be a witness to how this all played out later on. There was still so much they didn't know, and it would be interesting to see how that ignorance could help or hinder. For now... He reached down and with a jerk ribbed his white robe into a long strip, doing it several more times before tying it around his wounds.

Once in the air, the book too seemed to be willing and ready to take commands. In her grip high above the ground, it tugged in certain directions as if to try and get away from her but never strong enough to actually do it. The very wind seemed to assist her, blowing her the same way the book wanted her to go. Hopefully it was indeed bringing her to Franky rather than something dangerous. Though, those two things were currently one and the same. Below, spread like a painting, were the many flowers and Jozef's home among the sea of green. Further away, the mountains thinned back into the mountain pass they had gone through while ahead they touched each other to create a sort of bowl. That was where the book was leading her now, towards the edge of the mountains that rose suddenly and would make it almost impossible to climb.

Franky had covered a lot of ground in the time that he had bolted, for them all to have a discussion, and for Ciya to take flight. Fleeing, he simple ran as far as his legs could carry as his blind mind couldn't see again. Didn't he normally feel better after leaving? Why wasn't his head clearing? The undead couldn't clearly understand where he was, or what had even just happened. He just needed to get away quickly, as fast as he could and to eat. The sensation hit him hard, reminding him of the emptiness he carried that needed to be filled. His feet found a path that was strangely familiar to him, and as he approached the mountain wall he came across a small buck.

The animal didn't last a moment, and thankfully didn't suffer long before Franky extinguished its life and began to eat. Or, try to. Quickly he spat the flesh out, a disgusting taste lingering there. This was the WRONG kind of subsidence. He had to keep looking. Had to find the right kind. Turning, he allowed his legs to carry him forward once again, back down a path that he knew and somehow recognized.

The book led Ciya to where the undead had ended up. A cave was before her, a black hole opened to the world from the side of the mountain and seemingly endless inside. Stars had been carved to lead up to the cave, not too many and not too steep for human beings to use. And sitting on the top step right on the large ledge in front the door was Franky, hunched over and slowly breathing as he attempted to wipe away at the red on his lips. He was shaking violently, bundled with rage and energy but not sure on how to unleash it. He leaned, placing his face into his hands as he normally did when he was stressed or overwhelmed.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya landed lightly, but had to take a few quick steps to balance herself after the landing and ended up at the base of the stairs. Yet, instead of announcing herself she remained quiet, watching Franky at the higher elevation.

Was it possible that he wasn't there anymore? As soon as the thought came to her she wanted to slap herself with the same force she'd done to Lin. Franky had to be in there. Although, he'd already tried to feed--as made clear by the red around his mouth and the young buck she'd passed over.

Her hand maneuvered so she hid the vial, making only the book visible to him if he looked down to see her. "Franky?" She spoke, the earlier thought making her uncertain. If she had to--she'd use his other name, the name he'd been given when alive.

**FrankenSoul**

The call itself was enough to break him from whatever trance he was in. His head jerked up to spot her further down the steps, and once again he barred his now bloodstained teeth with an animalistic noise before scrambling to his feet and beginning to back away. Even in this state, he knew she wasn't supposed to be here. She didn't NEED to be here. She needed to go away. Go away, now!

When she didn't do this, he turned and retreated towards the cave. Towards safety, where nothing else bad could happen, right?

Once inside, his sight adjusted quickly. The chamber was large, extending high above him and more steps being carved to lead to a higher section towards the back of the room. A flicker of memory presented itself. The cavern was too empty. Where were the tables, the cloaked people who cut him and put him back together? "Argh..." He groaned, shaking his head and stumbling on as he tried to shake off the stabs of thought. No, running. Running first.

He bound up the steps leading to the raised section, and paused in shock when he reached the top as again he was given flashes of memories he didn't want. A table of stone was laid before him, black and without color. Around it, burned and low candles were arranged carefully. Strange symbols were carved into the very rock, and were tinted red by a morbid paint. This... This place.

Franky crumbled atop it, sitting once again and extending a hesitant hand to trace at the table. Bed. It was a bed. A deathbed, made for him. He had... He had been here before. A long time ago.

In Ciya's hands, the book was almost vibrating. It too seemed to know this place, as its dark insides gave off the same terrible aura that the book itself had once emitted in waves. Terrible, unspeakable things were committed in this place. One would find themselves glad that the only light came from a few torches placed in the walls, enchanted to continue burning to this day and allowing the rest of the space to be thrown in darkness. Who knew what else they might have seen if there was more light?

'***PhoenixAshes'***

His reaction made her heart drop in both minor fear and worry. Mostly, it stung. He didn't want her there. Usually in the frustrated state he'd been in he might turn to her but he was not in his right mind now. "Wait!" She called when he moved away again. No, no, no, he couldn't get away! Who knew how deep that cave was.

Quickly she ascended the steps, feeling the book hum as she neared the mouth of the cave "Hush." She ordered it impatiently. Placing her hand on the wall to peer inside, a chill ran up her arm and all the way down her spine. This place, this place was no good. But Franky was inside...she had to go. Her fingers felt the vial--this was the chance, right?

Steeling herself for what may be ahead she slipped in, her feet padding as lightly as she could through the dim. Eventually she came within sight of him again, but this time, just stood. She remained far enough back that it seemed like he wouldn't flee again. Maybe with a little time he'd come to her, in curiosity or memory or-- a sharp intake of her own breath cut her off. None of those thoughts. He had never hurt her, even at his worst. He wouldn't now.

**FrankenSoul**

His fingers ran along the familiar runes, adding to their red tint with the blood on his fingers that smeared. A low whine built up in his chest, now louder and reverting through the cave at an echo that caused him to flinch when it reached him again. The sensation of being on top of the stone was too familiar, and not in a comforting way. Still, it was something that lured him with even a speck of promise as he stared longingly at the place he had found. Numbly, he wondered where he was.

As his fingers grazed, they touched something colder and harder than the rest that clinked from contact. He paused, a shiver running along his spine as he looked closer to see what it was.

Chains. Attached at one end to the bed, and the other with a clasp to restrain whoever laid down here. Their sight sickened him, and with a flinch he was on his feet with his teeth bared.

Chains. Cutting. Pain, pain, pain! No, this was a bad place! Why did he come here? He needed to leave, he needed to leave now! Turning sharply, he finally spotted Ciya lower down the stairs, hovering above the darkness like an angel come to deliver him from this pit of hell. But again his instincts paired with filtered thoughts came to him. She wasn't supposed to be here, she wasn't supposed to see him like this!

The primal part of his psyche prompted attack. She wasn't human but she resembled them enough surely for the flesh to be similar! Eyes hard and lips pulled, his teeth clicked in anticipation as his body became tense. Yes, now. Now now now while she was distracted and useless. Charge her, pin her down, take her apar-

NO!

The mental image of this woman torn to shreds caused his stomach to lurch. He, he refused! His hand clamped down hard over his mouth and he began to slowly back away until his legs bumped once again into the bed of stone. Trapped between the past and his possible future. Quickly looking, there was no way out except back down the stairs she now blocked. Again, whines pushed forth from his throat. Turning, he leaped over the bed until he was behind it and pressed in the corner. Dropping down, he pulled his knees up and tucked his head as low as it would go to try and make himself as small as possible. The mewing cries came in short starts and stops now, and two rivers of tears cut through the grime and red of his face. Why did he have to hurt like this? He just wanted to go home.

**PhoenixAshes**

He seemed calmer now. She noted watching his fingers trace whatever may be carved in the stone. Not knowing how to proceed left her to only observe, first just Franky in this far more feral state and then, in smaller increments, what was visible of their surroundings. As she watched something became far clearer and something quite close to dread filled her. What Franky was sitting on was either for sacrifice or something much, much worse. Considering the way the book had been humming, it was the latter.

The sudden movement and defensive motion he made startled her, leaving the wide-eyed shock on her expression as he turned her way. Her heart felt like it would start fast and then skip, not liking the way he was looking at her. Maybe it was the blood on his face but there was something predatory about it. All heavens, don't let him....

Then he stumbled back, as if refusing something abhorrent before he vanished further into the dark and partially obstructed by the stone. For a moment more she remained still, until the sound of crying echoed sorrowfully off the walls. What fear she had of him melted, save for one cautious sliver and she approached again, staying on the opposite side of that dark and stained bed of pain. A breath and then, "Can you speak to me now?"

**FrankenSoul**

His fingers pushed into his mess of hair, firm against his skull as he rocked slowly on his heels. He had to keep thinking. Or did he need to stop thinking? He wasn't sure anymore. He wasn't sure whom he was or what he was supposed to do. But one thing he was sure of was that he wanted that woman to be safe. So why was she still here? Why didn't she run and go and forgot about him?

Scrambled words chased each other around and around, adding to the mess that was his mind. He had to make it stop.

She was speaking to him. For a moment, the meaning of her words were lost on him and only caused him to duck down further into a tighter ball. He was silent and still until his sounds resumed again, pathetic and quieter than before.

He kept this position for a few minutes longer until he was finally able to push his will, fingers tugging at his strands of hair so that he may peer at her past the strands. The color of his gaze had returned but was still diluted, whitened like the blind eyes of an old man but still wet and bewildered all the same. It seemed for a moment that he could not speak. Despite his freed mouth, his mind wasn't up to the task to communicate just then.

That is, until his lips formed the first word that he'd spoken in years, echoing his soft voice loud enough for her to hear and which carried with it every scrap of hope, despair, and love he could feel crowding inside himself.

"Ciya."

**PhoenixAshes**

She'd expected silence from him, having been so used to it. His written thoughts had been his true voice for her and she'd known no more, she'd been satisfied and content with it to the point that the idea of hearing fully enunciated syllables from him didn't even cross her mind. The question, if he could speak, was to ask for his writing. Which was why her own name seemed to strike her harder than anything else she'd ever heard. A gasp, small, and barely existent, felt like it choked her.

That was what he sounded like...what he really sounded like.

"There you are." It took all her composure to keep her voice from shaking and her vision clear.

**FrankenSoul**

He had formed her name as carefully as if it were alive and could be harmed. Despite the strain of his struggle, it was reflected by a worn and deep voice that might easily be able to murmur away nightmares to a child. And yet, it itself seemed to have childish tones to it just now. Frightened, lost, desperate.

Her reaction caused him pause, pressing his shoulder to the stone wall of the cave at her watery tones. He had done something bad again? No. No, she was happy. He was sure of this. Or, a happy as she could be in this situation. He didn't move from the safety of his corner just yet though, too afraid that once he started moving that other bad things would happen. She... She needed to go. He knew that much. Go back from where she came from; get away from him.

The words formed in his mouth but became only sounds again as he tried to express them. In frustration, he tried again with the same results before finally taking a trembling hand and pointing to the exit, then her, then back out again.

As if to tell her why, he clasped his hand hard over his mouth and made a muffled cry, eyes squinting. He didn't know what he was going to do. He didn't want her to get hurt.

**PhoenixAshes**

She was patient as she had been after meeting him, waiting for his next reply as he fought through sounds only to have to watch his movements. Out. Out because...of the planted urge in him.

A sigh and a shake of the head. "No. I'm not leaving you." As much as she wanted to round the edge of the table stone, she remained in place except to put the book and vial down on it. "It's not done." She said this softly, in the gentlest tone she could manage. "What you wanted to do, before this--it's not done."

She had refused to. He wasn't too surprised. She had always been stubborn with him. Still, she had caused obvious distress as he pushed his own hair down on his skull, throwing a quick glance when she put something down on the table. The sight of the book had him pushing hard against the wall once again, a faint hiss issuing out from between his teeth. That thing! That had been here before! When he had been cut, when he had felt pain, when he had...

The vial. He grew still, staring and trying to translate her words again through the soup around his head. Not... done? Before this? He couldn't remember before this. Only that he was so very, very hungry and hadn't eaten in such a long time. Bringing his hand up, he bit hard upon the edges of his fingers to repress the sudden need. Quickly though, like a hunger pain, it faded and allowed him to relax.
It was only going to get worse. He was only going to get worse. He knew that somewhere. And he trusted this woman who was with him now. Ciya. Who was waiting for him.

Finally, like a cornered animal, he eased himself from the corner and moved towards her. He kept his face turned away, only throwing her quick glances from the edges of his eyes. When he was within touching distance, his arm lifted up and reached out towards her, searching for something. Searching for her hand to grasp tightly, an anchor to tie him to this world. He trusted her. Whatever had not been finished, he trusted her now to brush away the chaos.

**PhoenixAshes**

When he hissed she tensed, uncertain of what exactly was wrong this time. Her refusal? Her reminding of trying to regain his memory? The book? Her gaze flicked to the physical thing, the only thing that had changed other than the communication.

There wasn't enough time to change whatever it had been. By the time she'd looked back he was biting down on his fingers.

The pixie went to speak again, but dropped the thought of such as he neared her. Far more careful and cautious than she'd ever seen him. Something made her wonder if this is what he was like when Aunty Anne had first met him--minus the intense hunger.

He was reaching for her, needing the one and only thing she'd ever been able to give him: temporary peace. Her slim hand came to meet his, her finger tips brushing over his palm as she did. "I'm here." She promised.

**FrankenSoul**

The touch of her hand at once caused a tremor through him. The touch wasn't unwelcomed, but he realized how thin this all was. How careful he had to be now more than ever. Every instinct in him screamed to fight or to run as fast as he could, but something stronger knew that such action wasn't acceptable. That everything he had ever wanted was right here in front of him, if he was just strong enough to take it.

A certain warmth that lingered in his chest, dulling the chaos and taming his anger. He breathed deeply, making low noises in his throat as he closed his eyes to subdue the remaining evil that wanted to lash out.

He whimpered, and in seconds would find himself pressed against her with his arms circled around her firmly. Slowly, he eased them both down as he sat upon the edge of the bed, forgetting its past and meaning temporarily and instead content in holding her with his face firm against the nook of her neck.

Here he lingered, silently struggling while low sounds emitted forth from his throat and wetness of his eyes caused her clothes to become damp.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya smiled softly as he took her hand. She remained attentive as his sounds changed. The whimper and his clutching to her didn't catch her too off guard, it was familiar, but still potent. Her arms wrapped around him as well holding tight as she felt him break down again. Gently her hand brushed over his hair in a rhythmic and soothing pattern.

This was so much for him. Her heart ached thinking about how long he'd delt with this alone. Long before they'd met, before he'd even been made into what he was now. It had to stop. The questions had to be answered.

For a moment her brushing stopped and she reached for the vial. When he calmed further, perhaps he could finish what had been started.

**FrankenSoul**

This touch was familiar too. Familiar in a different way, in a different time from this place. A happier, warmer time that he wanted to go back to. Couldn't they go back to it now? He issued a sigh from his nose, his body still stiff but relaxing a few degrees in her grasp. He wiped as his face with the back of his hands, only making more of a mess than he had done before with the half dried blood and grime on him.

She was moving, and that caused him to open his eyes a sliver to spot what she was doing. Her fingers slid around the strange thing with the nasty liquid inside. Balefully, he reached out with his own hand to touch her own and help her hold it, breathing out, "Ciya?"

What was this that she was trying to pick up, this item that caused fresh stress and yet a strange lightness in his chest? With her, he brought it closer, looking at it. The green liquid continued to bubble. He didn't like the color. It was the color of sickness. It was closed with a cork that could be twisted and removed easily. Someone could drink it easily. Drink... His eyes narrowed. He was so very hungry, the sensation lingering at the edge of his awareness, but never had he considered the other aspect of it. He wasn't thirsty, and yet the strangest urge began to grip him to open and down the contents of the vial while at the same moment part of him wanted to smash it down on the stone in fear.

**PhoenixAshes**

It was so hard to not react with an outpour of emotion as he said her name again. She wanted to forget the vial and just hold to him, keep him talking. However, his curiosity kept her on task.

His expression made it very clear of his hesitance about it. Still, she had to try.

She turned it in her hand to show him further. While she wasn't fond of the strange concoction either, it was his chance to recall all of his life, not just the tiny bit he had. "You told me you wanted to remember who you were." She said softly. "This is supposed to help you do that. "

**FrankenSoul**

Remember.... Right. Right, the drink had something to do with memories, didn't it? Because he had gotten sick and forgotten about his life. About everything that came before. Did he want that? This woman, Ciya, she said that he wanted that. He wasn't sure. There was something empty inside of him, something that ached and hurt deeper than any physical pain. Beyond his confusion, beyond his hunger, it was something empty inside of him.

But, at the same instance, he still held to the urge to smash it. Smash it now, fool, before he did something that could ruin the warmth he had found. Don't risk what he knew for what he didn't know. Don't risk Ciya again!

He moaned and whined under his breath, his hold shaking. He turned his face away, releasing her hold and body tensing as if he were preparing to run again. He wasn't sure. He couldn't remember what he had said. He couldn't judge any of this. He could only trust Ciya, the one who allowed his chest to grow warm and his mind to grow calm. But still...

He was so scared.

**PhoenixAshes**

At the sounds he made she brushed her free hand over his hair, suddenly afraid to loose him again. She was pushing too hard and the worries that had been suppressed earlier but the support and certainly had been stripped as the stitches were broken. "You don't have to." The words felt repeated but necessary.

As grimy and bloodstained as he was, she moved close and put her head to his, trying to ebb the fear he had. "But...we'll have to stitch you again." She wasn't sure how much he'd like that.

**FrankenSoul**

Didn't have to... His labored breathing began to slow as her words eased him. No. No he didn't have to. Against better judgment, she pushed close to him again and he found her presence to be incredible warm, filling his chest with the sensation. He stiffened as she spoke again. Stitches...

Gazing down, he could see them now. On his fingers and arms, black and stark against unnatural grey skin. His fingers brushed against his lips, where he felt small pinprick holes where they had sealed his mouth shut before, stifling his hunger and making it manageable. Yes, he could remember that much now. And that he... he had wanted to be rid of all of the stitches, forever.

And that the drink in front of him was the first step to doing that. Sharply, he took a breath. No. Somewhere he knew he did have to do this. If he wanted this woman next to him to stay with him, always… he needed to remember, and then maybe one day become as alive as she was now.

The knowledge brought him some peace. A single action to take when so many things were pulling him in opposite directions. Turning towards her, he used his head to give her a mild squeeze as a half embrace. He wasn’t capable of smiling just then, but he found himself wanting to do it all the same.

His fingers followed suite, giving a slight squeeze as they both held to the vial in their grasp. He turned to peer at her fully, trying to communicate what his mouth could not. He would do this, and he could do this, if they took the action together.

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