Undergrowth (Log 13)

**PhoenixAshes**

"I can." Vivica replied, staring at the book as if it would get up. "I'm not sure how strong I can make it." She frowned. If it resisted Jozef's fire, she wasn't sure how much containing she could do. Her gaze turned to the books that were not blood thirsty in the room. Maybe there was something she could find in there?

**FrankenSoul**

"Anything will do for now," Jozef replied, grateful. He was less than pleased with the events that had transpired outside and inside his home. His flowers were damaged, and more importantly a young woman was now ill. Uttering a low sigh, Jozef crouched and carefully moved forward. "Come. I will direct you to a few books that might be able to help you. We will look after Ciya in watches. Franky will start."

Pulled forth from his daze once again by his name, the undead blinked slowly and nodded. Right. Keep watch. Protect her. He could... He could do that, as long as he didn't allow his thoughts to get away from him. These days, it was best to try to dull his feelings and ideas until something good happened. He wasn't sure he could handle any more direct assaults to his phyche like that. Moving forward to be closer to her, he resumed his pose with his legs pulled up against his chest, eyes lingering upon her face. Wake up again soon, Ciya...

**PhoenixAshes**

The witch seemed hesitant to give up charge of her weakened friend, but still followed Jozef to the books. Even if she wasn't pleased with what had happened, she was certian Ciya would be safe with Franky watching.

Her search through the pages of the books was not full of awe as it had been earlier. While she still treated them gently and with respect there was a quickness in how she turned to the next side of information and focus in her scanning of the words.

Eventually, she stilled. That looked promising.

The pixie had slipped out of a waking state and was resting. The sight could not have been comforting to those around her in any way, because it was far to still, stillness that came with a body trying to recover and not with an ease of usual rest.

**FrankenSoul**

Lingering over like a tower, Jozef watched Vivica flicker from one book to another. It was no longer for joy, as she was on a mission to help then contain that... thing. He was slightly impressed of her skills regarding words. Most people he crossed, he had to TEACH them, and even after they still sometimes struggled to appreciate the gift of the written tongue. Slick and Franky were good examples. At least the undead used it to communicate and help him dig out his past, but there still seemed a lack of grace with his approach to books.

Jozef directed Vivica to the bedroom, writing table, and kitchen should she require any additional tools such as paper or herbs. Carefully, the book was set on top of the desk and with Vivica's directions the dastardly item was sealed. At least, temporarily. Jozef saw how the book's magic pushed against its barriers, trying to reach out and was stopped. How long the seal would hold was anyone's guess.

Tired and weary, Jozef excused himself for the night and moved outside the home. Though, he told them if they were in need of him he would be right outside. Leaning against the cottage, he gingerly opened the grate on his chest and reached for a pile of wood that was carefully hidden behind the house. Taking a log and throwing it inside, he sighed as his flames began to grow stronger. The book had almost poisoned him. He would need some time to heal himself, though it would likely be only a few hours.

Through the night, Franky did not leave Ciya's side. Touching her unharmed hand, his eyes even lacked blinking as he gazed upon her, his breath still and attention direct. Like a statued guardian, he wouldn't move from that spot until Ciya was able to tell him herself to go. Luckily, his position was out of the way and allowed Vivica easy access to her patient. Franky wouldn't respond to her words if spoken to, blocking the rest of the world unless it directly involved his loved one.

The hours passed at an agonizingly slow rate until finally light began to seep in through the windows. It didn't seem right. The world should remain dark and cold until Ciya was better. It was as if the world were outright mocking and betraying their emotions with its light. Or, so Franky dimly thought.

A few further hours passed until the door of the cottage rattled and swung open to show someone all too familiar. Smiling, Slick poked his head inside as he ducked down, cheerfully calling, "Guess who's returned with his ta- Oh. Oh my." He stopped in his words to witness the scene. Ciya laid out and looking far worse than he had ever seen. Franky at her side, hunched and guarding without even looking up at Slick's arrival. And... some THING pulsing on the writing desk. He'd say it was a book, but it looked far too gruesome to be that. Slick's smile turned down into a grimace. He continued to scan, looking for someone he knew could inform him. Where was Vivica? Was that her there, on the sofa, or a bundle of pillows?

**PhoenixAshes**

The sound and extra light Slick's enterance brought caused Ciya to shift slightly, as bad as she looked there was a small mark of improvement. She had more color to her skin than she had a few hours before.

Part of the pile of pillows moved, revealing itself to at least be part of Vivica, the legs, specifically, then the rest followed as she shifted her position and turned to the entering Slick. "Did the willow bark help?" She asked, quietly desperate to get her mind off of what was going on around this place. She'd been stewing in it for hours now.

**FrankenSoul**

"Um... yes. Somewhat at the beginning."

Slick stared at her but witheld comment for the moment. Carefully as he crouched, he entered and pulled the rest of himself inside. Indeed, he had resumed his previous and original form with no major changes to it. It looked to be his same tail that slid silently inside, making him wait until he closed the door so it wouldn't get caught. His clothes were gone, though he had held on to his shirt due to the cold temperature. His hair was once again pushed back and held away from his face, and his ears and teeth were pointed. Slitted eyes narrowed as the naga came to face level, his hands hovering and unsure before he reached out to gingerly place one on her shoulder.

"What happened here? I leave you all for one night and come back to find disaster..." There was a hint of humor in his voice and a faint twitching of his lips. Gods, Vivica looked almost as bad as Ciya did. Had she stayed up the entire night?

**PhoenixAshes**

"As long as it did something." She replied. The witch was far more surprised at how happy she was to see him, while it didn't show in her face, or rather couldn't show, she felt it. She sighed with relief as his hand rested on her shoulder and shook her head. It took a moment to speak as everything was still relatively fresh and there had been very little communication in the hours after Jozef had gone outside.

Her gaze turned to where the pixie lay. "Ciya gave to the bloodseal on that book Franky carried." That was the gist of it. The rest was evident.

**FrankenSoul**

The... The book. Slick's hand twitched as he put the pieces together. So the book... was that thing on the desk. And it had harmed Ciya as she tried to give in to its demands. Now she was alive, but harmed and... Gods, one night! He was gone ONE night!

There were many questions to ask, such as; did Franky know she was going to do it? Had anyone looked inside the book? Where was Jozef? But he held his tongue, knowing that his wasn't the right time. She looked exhausted... Most likely taking care of her "patient". Frowning lightly, Slick gave a slight squeeze to her shoulder as he looked at Ciya and Franky. Franky's face was taunt with worry, and he recognized the deeper emotions. The undead was trying not to give in to despair, clearing his head until he could do something.

Uttering a low sigh and gathering his tail under himself, Slick noted how much smaller the cottage seemed now with his extra bulk. Okay. Okay, one thing at a time. "She seems stable for now. You, lay down and rest right there on that sofa. I don't think you'll be much use if YOU faint. Have you eaten? For that matter, I imagine she hasn't either. Some sort of broth should be made so that she can sip it... I think I can gather a few ingredients that act medically and can help give strength to the both of you. A few are in the forest though, so I'll be gone for a handful of minutes." Running his hand over his head, Slick breathed deeply and managed a smile.

"So don't any of you get in any more trouble until I get back."

**PhoenixAshes**

The squeeze was comforting, and Vivica had to do her best not to lean into it for support in staying upright. She was getting tired. While she had a little bit of sleep before the trouble had started, it hadn't been enough to keep her going for this long. That and casting the containment spell around that book had been taxing and further she'd had to set up a reserve chunk of amethyst so if she wasn't around to reinforce it when the evil thing got clever it would still be trapped.

She nodded at his observations. Yes, Ciya was stable, but she hadn't woken up, there had been a few times she'd stirred but it usually passed without the pixie really showing signs of wanting to wake, and she'd likely need a lot of care when she did.

Eaten? She must have been tired-- Slick's question and suggestions felt like a bombardment of words.

"Don't be gone too long." She requested, pulling a small smile into place. "We're an unpredicable bunch now."

**FrankenSoul**

Poor thing, she looked at him as if he were speaking another language. Ah there it was, his words clicked and she even managed a smile. Unpredicable? Oh he'd argue that point. Franky would guard, Ciya would sleep, and Vivica would worry. But he understood what she meant.

Carefully, he used his hand to ease her down onto the sofa and pointed for her to lay down, replying, "I'll be sure to slither quickly~"

Satisfied that she would stay still, he managed to leave and find Jozef a minute after. He was outside, refueling. The golem didn't run like Franky, for even the metal man required rest or his flame would burn out. And that would be very mad. Dozing, or whatever one would call this inactive state, Jozef didn't register as Slick moved past and into the woods to gather his supplies. And as promised, he returned just as quickly with the appropriate plants in his arms. His "lessons" from Ciya even helped, as a few flowers that could be cooked that she told him of where in his grasp.

After returning, once again he was able to fill the air with the smell of food. He found his tail was getting in the way at times and cursed the small space. Still, it allowed him to "lean" over a distance without actually having to move there, so he supposed it was good to have his tail back. Roots, flowers, and herbs were thrown into the bubbling liquid and Slick joking apologized about having a soupy meal twice in a row now. It couldn't be helped, what with Ciya being ill.

There was still no movement from Franky. It was as if the man had dedicated himself to only moving when she did, flinching should she stir only to settle down as she did so.

With the broth finished a while later, Slick moved to offer a bowl to Vivica and warned of its heat before glancing at Ciya. He offered to feed her himself, knowing that Vivica was very tired and should save her strength while eating her own fill.

**PhoenixAshes**

At his propmting, Vivica did let herself relax. Although it wasn't easy, since she seemed to not be able to actually drift off during the day. Still, laying curled up on the sofa with her eyes closed for the short while did help return some energy to her.

She was up as soon as the naga came back. Genuinely surprised by what she could identify in his arms. Knowing Franky would come for help if it was needed, she allowed her tether distance to extend to the kitchen as Slick cooked. He was interesting to watch in his origional form, that was for sure. Eventually, she found herself back on the sofa, starting distractedly at a book of Jozef's, when the bowl was offered.

Appreciatively it was taken, but the offer to get some to the pixie was met with hesitance. It wasn't the best idea to rouse her-- a few times during the night, when the fire popped too loudly or Vivica had been checking on her, the pixie had seemed disoriented and startled still afraid that the blood stealing monstrosity was the source. She was usually quickly eased, both by the firm hold of her hand by Franky and the soft reassurance of her friend. To suddenly add the now snakey Slick into the mix might not bode well.

After a pensive sip, the witch relayed this and suggested to let Franky do so, but with supervision from the Naga.

**FrankenSoul**

Why the hesitation...? He would of course be careful when he did it. Then again, Franky might not like him getting closer right now. After Vivica explained, the snake-man clicked his tongue and slowly nodded. She had a point. Suddenly seeing him might jolt her too much, despite knowing him in his real body. Her mind was fragmented and tired, so it might be best to let someone she knows help her.

But could he even get Franky's attention? Moving close, Slick gingerly touched Franky's shoulder to get his attention. When that didn't work, he moved it a bit harder. Still no response, Franky concentrating on Ciya as if she were a lighthouse in a storm.

Making a low noise, Slick began to slide his other hand over Franky's eyesight. Perhaps that would get hi- OUCH. Franky swatted him away like a bug, suddenly scowling and turning towards Slick in anger, humming like a hornet and trembling.

Who dared- Oh. Oh, it was Slick. Right... He had come in a little bit ago, right? He had seen it but not registered the thought until now. Forcing himself to ease, Franky impatiently lifted a brow to ask what he wanted. Kindly, the naga relaid Vivica's idea and showed the undead the bowl of soup. Eyeing it, slowly Franky nodded. Yes... Yes okay. He could do something useful then, to help Ciya. Taking the bowl with a hummed thank you, Slick moved back to the sofa where Vivica sat while still watching. Lowly under his breath, he addressed his witchy friend.

"I don't like when he gets like that. Franky's kind, but sometimes he still acts like a child. Not surprising I suppose, what with his mind being a handful of years old, but still..."
An upset child with strength like his could do some very real damage if he set his mind to it.

None of that power was shown now though. As carefully as he possible could, Franky eased Ciya's head up onto one of his legs and kept her head steady as he did so. Lifting the leg somewhat so that she could mildly sit up, a spoonfull of the soup was brought up and allowed to cool before he brought it to her lips. Giving low sounds of encouragement, he tilted it and tried to make her sip as if he were tending to a helpless child.
Slick felt himself smile. Well, immature or not, he still cared for Ciya a great deal. No one could deny that.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica nodded in agreement, but did not reply otherwise as she was finishing off her bowl. Franky had some childish tendencies, that couldn't be denied. They didn't flare until he was under stress of some kind, at least to her understanding and experiance. Lightly, the witch took a hold of the Slick's wrist to lift and inspect the hand Frany had smacked. No swelling, no joints out of place, redness but that was to be expected when skin was slapped. "He could, but I think you'll live passed this." She said, a small smile hinting her tease.

Ciya made small sounds, instinctual protest to being moved that barely caused her eyes to open. While physically awake her mind was barely there, this likely would not be transfered into her memory except to be loose fuzziness of light and sensations. However, the improvement was clear enough, she was responding. Taking the broth as Franky offered it, it was all the help she needed. Clearly, a body knew when it needed energy and when not to reject it; she was swallowing on her own.

Vivica smiled at this, relieved, both at the progress and Franky's tenderness.

**FrankenSoul**

Wait, what was she- Oh. Slick chuckled, resisting the urge to roll his eyes. Yes he knew he would be fine. Still, his poor ego was hurt! It was good to see her smile, though, and even joke somewhat with him. Not hungry himself, Slick watched the two of them there on the floor. It was good that Ciya was drinking... it would help her get her strength back, if only a little. Slick still wanted to know what had happened last night though, in detail. He hated being left in the dark. And now that Vivica was feeling a little better...

Slick smiled and offered a hand out to Vivica. "Come. You could use a walk. To 'stretch your legs' and whatnot. And I want you to tell me what happened. Does that sound agreeable?"

Franky made sure to be extremely careful. Even a little slip now could be jarring and hurt her progress. He felt his chest grow warm at the sight of her moving on her own. Little by little, he scooped up the broth, allowed it to cool, and brought it to her. If the liquid spilled, he wiped it away. She seemed so helpless. He had never seen her like that before. Sure she had hurt her leg when they had first met, but this was different. And she had done it for him.

When she seemed to have enough, he pushed the rest of the food away. It probably wasn't wise to make her eat too much at once. Since he already had her in his grasp, he looped an arm around her and bent down lower so that he could place his forehead against her own, eyes squeezed shut as he held her. He would do so, just for a little while...

**PhoenixAshes**

Her warm gaze flicked over to Franky and Ciya, having to be assured by the sight of them that it would be okay for her to leave before she could take Slick's hand. She did, replying. "It does." Tell him what happened. That was going to be difficult, she didn't know parts of this, just her own, but maybe that was enough for him.

Franky's closeness seemed to make Ciya ease. A small breath suggesting a comforted sigh. For a while more, even after the other two had made their exit, she stayed that way. Warm and still, but alive and unknowingly contented in his arms.

Soon enough, her eyes opened, still showing weakness and fatigue but no longer absently glazed as they had been. All she could feel at first was warmth, then soreness, up her arm and across that side of her chest, and then as her senses honed the light and nearly tickling sensation of Franky's hair.

Slowly, she tested the fingers of her good hand, not wanting to agrivate the sorness of the other. Index, middle, ring, pinky and thumb...wrist... hard to move because she was still so tired but they worked. Elbow, a little bit of shoulder... The effort pulled a sound from her, similar to a whine but far softer, barely above a breath. She could only get the tips of her fingers to brush Franky's face before she had to drop her hand again.

**FrankenSoul**

He didn't notice these small gestures, content on where he was and sharing the space with her again. He almost felt that if he held her like this long enough, radiating his feelings, it would help... That is, until she made a sound and touched him. The contact surprised him enough to jump, his eyes opening and his face pulling back to stare down at her with a wide gaze. The sound alone squeezed his heart in that strange pain-not-pain way, but it was forgotten when he saw light in her eyes.

"HMHM!" He did his best to say her name, and for a moment it looked like he would cry again before he pulled her close against his torso again, his grip almost a little too tight. He held her there for a second before placing his forehead against hers one more time, humming as happily as he'd ever be. She was awake!

**PhoenixAshes**

The jolt from his reaction made her wince slightly, but it was gone in a moment. At his wide eyed stare, she gave the smallest smile she could manage far too weak still to do much more. Somehow she knew his attempt at a word was her name.

When he clasped her she made as sound of discomfort again, simply due to soreness and not at all in a negative way to him. "Gently." The word came out softer and far more hoarse than she like to hear.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh! Oh, right. Softly, carefully. He had let his excitement get the best of him. He drew away, suddenly sheepish at having let himself slip but at the same time bursting with energy. She was going to be okay. The relief of the knowledge was overpowering.

He managed a smile, briskly wiping his eyes before moving his fingers to brush strands of hair away from her face. He looked at her in concern, suddenly wondering if she should be trying to talk yet. If she were silent for a while to recover, it would be ironic but needed and he would gladly share her company anyhow.

**PhoenixAshes**

All right. That was better. Usually the extra force wouldn't have bothered her but everything hurt. The caress of his hand was much better. Still, it took so much to lean into it like she normally would that she had to remain still.

She was trying to work up her voice again to ask how long he'd been with sitting there with her.

**FrankenSoul**

There she was, trying to speak again. His frown increased as he noticed her struggle. His finger placed itself upon her lips in a gesture for her to be silence, and rest. His eyes were gentle though, and gladly he took her good hand and began to rub his touch over it. He hoped his message was clear. Take a moment to rest, and then if she felt like speaking after, she could. If not, he was content to sit there with her until she fell asleep again. At the back of his head, he wondered if Slick and Vivica would return soon to see her before she did slumber again.

**PhoenixAshes**

Hm? Understanding came slowly. Perhaps she was still a little foggy. Honestly, the warmth in his eyes surprised her. Although it wasn't uncommon for him to look so kindly her way, this level was new, and considering--a flicker of fear crossed her mind as the memory of what she'd done came. The soreness of her her arm and her chest reminding her of it's reality. Why wasn't he furious with her? Vivica likely was. And that thing where was it now?

She closed her eyes a moment, focusing on Franky's touch on her hand. It felt nice. Soothing.

She looked up at him again, not willing to work her voice just yet. She was alive, and judging by his reaction, lucky to be.

**FrankenSoul**

There. She allowed herself to rest further. She needed it, just as he thought. She had been through so much. If only he could read her thoughts, he would gladly reply that he couldn't be angry with her. No, she had scared him, that was for sure. Scared him beyond any fear he had felt before, but how could he be angry at someone willing to risk everything for him? If anything, he only found that he could love her deeper than he had before. But...

She closed her eyes, and he took the moment to withdraw his booklet and quickly write a message. By the time she was looking again, he held it out for her. He wasn't sure if her eyes could focus enough to see, so he made it somewhat bigger. The words lingered by his face, which was a mix of a light frown, concern, and adoration.

'Never do anything like that again.'

**PhoenixAshes**

She blinked a few times, having to focus to read. When it came and sank in, she blinked a few more times. With each time, her eyes looked wetter. She could almost hear him saying it, and in just the way his face was portraying. His handsome and worried, suddenly very blurry face. "I won't." Curse her voice, it was light normally but now, all teary and already weak, even she could barely hear. "I promise." Softer still.

That entire exeriance had been terrifying. Alone in the damp and night, suddenly realizing what terror she'd given to; it was horrible. ...Had it helped at all? Had he looked? Or had he been at her side since he found her out there?

She remembered that, just barely. At the fuzzy end of horror Franky's shape, brightly moon cast, taking her from the cold ground.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh no don't do that... Don't cry! He hadn't meant to- Gods. Adjusting her so that he could hold her better, he made sure to mind her injuries as he held her, pushing his face against her unharmed shoulder as he attempted to comfort her through contact alone. His poor, poor Ciya.

Rubbing his face back and forth so that his hair tickled her, he drew back and moved to wipe at her eyes with his rough fingers, eyebrows tilted and knit together. He wasn't sure what she was thinking or feeling just then, but he found himself wishing he had never found that damned book. Past or no past, it wasn't worth all of this grief on everyone he loved.

He turned away for just a moment, hand quickly scribbling before he turned and showed it to her again. Again he found himself wishing for speech so he could TELL her things rather than this slow method, but it was the best they had.

'It's not your fault! It's mine. Ciya, I never meant to make you feel like you were forced to help me. The-' Here he had put more force than needed by the way the word was bolded. '-BOOK was activated, but it's not worth your life! I love you too much for that.'

**PhoenixAshes**

By the heavens, she wished she had enough strength to hold him right now, but the best she could do was rest her hand on him when he got close enough.

She wanted to keep him near for a while more, but Ciya would settle with any kind of contact from him. As weak as she was, feeling Franky and his controlled strength made her feel so safe. Even as he brushed her tears away-- he probably wanted to tell her that she shouldn't be crying right now. She wanted to tell herself that she shouldn't be crying right now, but emotions came regardless.

His scribbling began again and she waited. There was a long moment that she stared and reread and then she rose her honey gaze to those so worried blue eyes. "I wasn't forced." She didn't think it would need that much. "I decided to..." Somehow she felt slightly ashamed. Knowing how badly it had all turned, the pixie knew why Jozef and Viv immediately said it was best avoided. She'd been wrong about good intentions faced against something so dark. "...I didn't want to see you hurt anymore from it, Franky." Her mouth felt dry, and her breath was hard to catch all of the sudden. " I need water..."

**FrankenSoul**

She wasn't forced. But she was, she just didn't understand that. Vivica did. Vivica saw how Franky's actions led Ciya to do something so reckless. Of course, no one knew how bad the results would be... Still. Her intentions were pure, nonetheless. Her further words only solidified his personal guilt, but he decided against arguing further. She wouldn't sway from her position.

She sure as hell didn't have the strength for all of this anyway! Franky felt a spike of worry at her breathlessness and quickly nodded. Water, right. Right, he could do that. Untangling himself and placing her down onto her pillow, he almost fell over himself to get to the sink and grab a glass to fill. Returning, he knelt at her side and moved it closer, looking somewhat apologetic. He had fed her before, but he doubted she remembered that, and he didn't want to harm her pride now. Still, his free arm moved around her to help support her again and sit her up. The glass tilted, and if she didn't take it from him he would ease it to her lips himself.

**PhoenixAshes**

The moment for embarassment would have to come later, right now the liquid in that glass was her goal. It took most of her effort, but she was able to put her hand half around the glass and overlapping his hand and keep it there. It was clear she didn't have the grip to hold it herself, but she could guide this--if her hand didn't drop away first.

The pixie drank what she could in slow, long sips. What came as a surprise to her was how aweful she thought her mouth tasted, but how amazing that water was. Honestly she'd never tasted anything cleaner.

**FrankenSoul**

She gripped the glass, and Franky allowed a small smile. Then they would do it together. With her guiding it, he felt somewhat relieved too. What if he had accidentally drowned her?? That would be a terrible ending to the day. She drank a lot too, and it surprised him at first before he remembered she had lost a lot of blood. She was replacing liquid with liquid perhaps?

When finished, he moved the glass away and laid her back upon her makeshift bed, giving a half smile. Well, she had eaten, talk, and now was able to drink. She was well on her way to recovering. But... He tilted his head and closed his eyes, imitating the gesture of sleep. Shouldn't she rest more? He knew she had to be tired. She could barely talk.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya was grateful that he understood what she was doing with the glass and felt quite a bit better after she'd finished. She didn't like the feeling of fatigue that was hitting her though. She wasn't even supporting herself or really holding the glass, Franky was. Still, it felt good to be laying back again.

Her smile was still weak but she managed it at Franky's motion. Barely moving her head she nodded, but moved her hand again silently asking for him to lay next to her. She didn't want to sleep without him close.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh he knew those gestures well enough. Her smile made his heart lurch at the sight with a bittersweet feeling due to their current situation. He managed to smile back, and as careful as he could he lowred himself next to her. Nothing would make him happier than to sleep next to her now. He paused, wondering if he should try to wrap an arm around her now with her injury. He settled for simply being close and taking her good hand in his, squeezing it and facing her with hazy eyes.

Again, he remarked upon the effect she had on him. After days of feeling uneasy and restless, being beside her settled him at once. His fingers began their movements as he had taken to doing, giving light squeezes and slowly breathing out. His eyes suddenly felt too heavy and he easily began to drift away.

Slick returned with Vivica shortly after, and at once noticed that Jozef had returned back into the cottage. Before he could greet the golem, Jozef placed a finger to his "mouth" to signal silence, pointing to Ciya. Frowning, Slick looked to see undead and pixie huddled together as if they were freezing and the other were their only source of warmth. And such peaceful expressions, on Ciya's face too. Slick chuckled, shaking his head. So everything was going to be okay after all.

**PhoenixAshes**

The excessive worry and tension in the atmosphere lessened after that. Still Vivica did fuss over Ciya quite a bit over the next few days, nearly to the point where the pixie showed minor annoyance with it, particularly due to the double dose of Viv and Franky. Both seemed to be constantly making sure she had enough food, drink, rest. If one was not there the other was certian to be on duty.

It did little good to argue, especially since with all their worry, she was showing improvement. Her recovery was marked by the fading lines of her viens and the dense red at the tip of her finger, and the returned budding to the vine on the affected arm. The little sprouting leaves were very bright against her skin and seemed to catch Franky's attention quite a bit. Soon enough, she was standing and moving about. Even if she was easily tired by it she was determined to handle herself again.

**FrankenSoul**

Franky was more than happy to see her gaining strength. The anger and frustration that had enter them all seemed to fade, although Slick did pop Franky on the back of the head at one point to which Franky whined and rubbed it. It didn't hurt, but he had some pride damn it! It seemed he was still being blamed, just slightly. The undead hadn't been able to really meet Vivica's eyes since all of this began, unsure of his emotions towards her now. He supposed he was holding onto a grudge, although a little one. Slick had started to take notice of the small, strange mannerisms and Franky was sure any day now he and Vivica might be forced to work out their problems.

The book remained right where it was durng the span of the next few days. At times during the night, Franky heard thudding and would bolt to see if it had done anything to only see it hadn't moved. It gave him chills. He felt like the skull on its cover was watching him. Now that his thougths weren't completely crowed with concern wth Vivica, he began to ponder the meaning of it all. The book was obviously evil. So then, the person who made him was likely evil too. But for what purpose did they make him? Was he supposed to be some of weapon? A soldier that felt no pain? No matter what, he felt deep in his bones that despite the magic that had a hand in making him, it obviously didn't define him. He considered himself a decent person who would defend those he loved to the death. He WAS NOT going to start thinking of himself as an evil, vile creature. He already had some moments of self-loathing, but nothing like that.

No, he was content to let the book sit there in the small sealed area. Part of him also felt that his past couldn't possible be contained in that THING, but when he pondered too long the urge to open it hit him hard. He had to press himself away from the thoughts, afraid of where they might lead. Ciya had already been hurt. Wasn't that enough?

A few days after the accident, Vivica and Slick had once again left to go for a walk together. The two had started doing so a few times a day to clear their heads and gather things for Slick to cook. Franky suspected from Slick's hinting that they needed a break from him and Ciya, as they had resumed their closeness and even grown closer. Today, Jozef had also excused himself to go out and check on something. He wouldn't tell them what as it was a personal buisiness, and he wasn't sure when he'd return.

Franky didn't mind all of that, he liked being alone with Ciya. Today he sat with her on the sofa, a book opened up between them that was illustrated with all sorts of creatures and animals. Magical species made appearances too, and Franky turned the page and pointed with great zeal. "Hmm!"

There was a rather detailed drawing of a pixie. Two, to be exact, for both sexes. Franky felt the ghost of heat on his face as he noticed they were both bare as babes to fully show their anatomy, their delicate and still strong wings extended. Small paragraphs were written at the sides to take notes on lifespans, diets, habitats, and culture.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya sat with her legs folded delicately to one side,the rest of her leaned the other way onto Franky, tucked neatly against him as if she'd always belonged there. It was nice to have everyone but Franky gone for a little while, she felt like she had some breathing room.

She laughed a bit at his sudden excitement only to flush slightly for the same reason he had. Oddly enough...that was pretty spot on. The female was anyway, Ciya hadn't ever seen a full grown male in that state, so she wasn't the best judge.

Distracting herself from that fact, she focused on the paragraphs, trying to see how accurate they were. For the most part, everything was in order, except parts of the culture section. The pixie frowned. "I guess the writter didn't get to where my family was." Most of what was mentioned came from a warmer, more southerly climate than where she'd been and as a restult, the flora taken care of and appreciated was relatively different.

**FrankenSoul**

Seeing she was reading the pages, Franky turned to do the same. Huh... Well from what he read, it matched everything he had seen in Ciya. It was very interesting! He did so love to learn, and looked towards Ciya with a lifted brow. What was this now? Something was wrong with the page? Oh, the section labeled culture? He scanned through it swiftly and gave a few mild nods despite not knowing the large differences.

He paused though, hit by the thing she had said. Her family... His arm moved around her, mindful of her still healing injuries, and he gave her a squeeze and softened his eyes as much as he could. Now the writer would never get to where her family was.

A voice pestered him somewhere in the back of his head. At least she KNEW what she was and where she came from. Swatting the thought away like a gnat, Franky couldn't help but allow his eyes to slide towards the writing desk again. The book had somehow turned during the night and now faced them at such an angel that the skull could be seen. Bah, stupid thing... Was it messing with his head now, or was that just his own mind playing games on him?

**PhoenixAshes**

She nestled in against his hold, and smiled up at him. It was alright. She couldn't be the only plant pixie left in her climate zone, but likely just in the section that she and Vivica lived.

Noticing his gaze she followed it and immediately pressed closer to him. Creepy thing, evil thing...it was looking at them. Unknowingly she hid the hand that her blood had been drawn from as if afraid that it would try to pull from her again. Tearing her gaze away from it and back to the page, she tired to call Franky back to it as well.

She pointed to the female pixie, "She's pretty, don't you think?" Her gaze turned to his face with a hint of mischief, wondering if he knew just how closely her own form matched.

**FrankenSoul**

What...? Oh. Ciya, right. She was holding to him with such intensity and leaning low, as if using his body as a shield. Well of course she was you big idiot, that thing was making her uncomfortable! And there he was, fancing that he would open it. No, he would never open it! It could sit there and rot!

Stiffling a growl in his throat, he followed her to look back at the book and then once again glanced away, the not-warm-but-warm feeling strong on his cheeks. Oh no, was she going to tease him now? He couldn't handle it when she teased him! A hand pressing to the back of his head, he quickly nodded and pressed his lips together tightly. Yes, she was very pretty and the drawng was very well made. But her face was wrong. There was only ONE pixie he knew and loved, and seeing another was strange even if it was a drawing. Before he could make any further comments about it, he froze as a loud knocking emitted forth through the door. Franky switched confused looks with Ciya.

Who in the world...? That was strange. Slick and Vivica didn't knock, and Jozef didn't use that door. So who could it be? Gesturing for Ciya to wait where she was, without thinking too much Franky was on his feet and reached for the door. If it was someone dangerous, Ciya was too weak to fight so he would do it. That was a mistake.

The door creaked open, and a smiling very human face greeted him. The man's cheerful expression widened further, while Franky's own began to distort with rage as he sucked in a fast breath.

"Good evening." Said the man, as calmly as if he were used to seeing undeads open the door.

A well placed blow from his palm hit Franky hard in the chest, astonishly able to throw Fanky's weight back and off the ground. A grunt issued out of Franky's mouth, his eyes wide before he collided with the side of the sofa and made the whole thing screech as it moved a few feet.

The man invited himself inside, his footsteps even and paced. Arms folded, he never stopped smiling as he inclined his head towards Ciya. "Greetings. I apologize for the violence, but I didn't wish for my head to be torn from my body today. You'll find Franky won't be able to move for a time, but it wears off, I promise."

His attire was formal. White, completely cleaned robes concealed his body type but with such a thin face surely he couldnt be THAT strong. He was rather pale, and one might think him old due to the shock of white hair he had tied behind his head with only a hint of color at its ends. But his face was smooth like that of a youth without even a single scar, his eyes squinted and his smile strange and unnaturally wide. He made a small and brisk gesture, throwing an arm behind himself and dropping his head low in a bow.

"I am Lin. It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Ciya."

From where Franky was on the floor, he watched with barely concealed rage. His entire body had gone limp from the single hit and his limbs weren't responding to him. But all he wanted to do was GET UP and HURT this man! This very obviously human man! Anger radiated from Franky unchecked. Yes, perhaps it was a good thing that somehow this Lin had been able to paralyze him.

**PhoenixAshes**

Her smile faded completely at the knocks, and her mind went through the same thoughts as Franky. No one they knew here knocked. As suggested, she stayed back but ever curious she leaned forward slightly, to see who Franky was opening the door to.

Human...Her eyes went wide at the realization and she tensed, feeling ready to leap. Franky was likely to-- the sound of the blow cut her thoughts and in an instant she found herself sliding back with the sofa. Tension had become shock in her honey eyes, which immediately darted to a now immoble Franky.

Concern etched in her features she forced herself to move faster than she had in days. Her small feet fast across the floor and then down on her knees, practically sliding to a stop next to her downed love. As the stranger spoke, she reached protectively over Franky, leaning half across him as her observant and wide eyes stared.

Just as she'd gathered herself enough to wonder who this unsettling man was, he introduced himself , but even in that she found no ease. How did he know her name? She'd never met him before to her memory. "I can't say likewise." Came her reply, stronger than she thought it would be.

**FrankenSoul**

Having pulled himself upright, the stranger moved a hand to his chin as he observed her peculier behavior. Not that he was surprised, but it was still interesting to see how she tried to shield the undead even now. And in such a state! She was in no position to fight though, and he hoped she knew that or he'd be pestered by more useless violence.

Not likewise...? A laugh issued forth from his mouth, though it was controlled and low. "Oh, of course not in such conditions! I must look like quite the villain. Again, I apologize. I mean you no harm, but there was only one way for me to talk to you both face-to-face and there is simply not a lot of time. We both know how he suffers from panic attacks, but if you look at him, you'll see his mind is very intact right now despite being unable to move. There's no fury clouding his thoughts, save for the anger at my intrusion."

It was true. Despite being beyond himself at this human for barging in and doing such threatening acts, Franky was... thinking. He knew where he was, who was next to him, and understood the words being said. Normally when he was around people, he just blindly wanted to HURT them. This was different, somehow. Franky's brows knit together as he was at least able to move his facial muscles, confusion set there as he slowly nodded. These words were true, but still! What did he want? Why was he here?

Lin moved to place a hand lightly upon his hip, twisting his other in a gesture. "Would you like me to assist you in moving him to the sofa...? There's no need to sit upon the floor."

**PhoenixAshes**

Even as controlled as the laugh was, the pixie flinched at it. She couldn't see what was amusing in the situation at all. Again he apologized, but she wasn't about to believe it. If he meant no harm than why had he come when all were away? It seemed devious to her.

Whatever his motives there was some truth to it. Cautiously she looked down to Franky, finding his very mindful expression still in place. While surprising, there was no time to stew on it. Her attention flicked back to Lin when he spoke. Hesitance came into her face, unsure if she wanted him anywhere near her or Franky at all. Then again, it didn't seem right to just have Franky laying here. Once more she looked down giving Franky a questioning look. Would he prefer that, or should they be cautious?

**FrankenSoul**

Well here was another decision Franky wasn't prepared for. Ciya looked to him for guidance and to that he again gave a very slight nod. It would be best for them to humor this man. Franky didn't want to anger this man when he was useless and couldn't defend Ciya. He was NOT happy about this at all, but he was curious. Why the hell was this man?

Lin took the nod as approval, the edges of his lips widening. He clasped his hands together. "Wonderful. I'm not very strong physically, but..." With a snap of his fingers, something peculiar happened. Franky lurched upwards as if a soft cloud had sudden enveloped him, allowing him to defy gravity itself. Lin opened his palm and gently gestured, and the "cloud" followed, placing Franky carefully upon the sofa and positioning him so that he looked to only be sitting.

Brushing a bright strand from his face, Lin finished with, "I do have other gifts. Now let's get to business."

His footsteps were brisk as he moved in front of them both, hands now clasped behind his back. With hardly a change in expression, he spoke, "I've been watching you all for some time. I've observed from a distance, mindful of you all. To be accurate, I've followed him." He gestured towards Franky, who blinked in surprise. Him? Why him?

"I witnessed your travels and faked an injury in order to speak with part of your group. As a note, I do find your friends to be very entertaining. You see, Franky- which is quite an ironic name I tell you- I've known you for a very long time. I only now make myself known because the book has been activated."

Lin turned, and had to hide true amusement at the seal around the book. Ah, "pretend" magic as he used to call it. Nothing but herbs and crystals. Moving forward, he brushed aside a few of the carefully positioned items to negate it and without hesitation the book found itself in his hands. Franky flinched at how it seemed to relax in Lin's grip, the man returning and casually flipping it open to browse the pages.
"I'm surprised you discovered how to use it. I had almost hoped you wouldn't, to save you from your past."

Franky inhaled sharply. Past? The way this man carried himself, the way he spoke... Lin looked up, head tilted ever so slightly and a shine in his barely seen eyes.

"That's right. I knew you before you perished, James."

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya jumped when Franky lifted, not expecting such a thing. Although, as strange as the intrusive 'guest' was sudden act's of magic should be no surprise. She stood and moved to be near Franky, not wanting Lin to get between them at any point.

As Lin spoke she watched his every move, looking for any discrepancy. She already didn't trust him, the fact that he'd been watching and following all of them was, at the least frightening.

As he moved to the book, her chest tightened. No, no no! Don't go near that! Don't bring it out!

"Toad stool slime!" She cursed under her breath, taking a too tight hold on Franky's arm. It was out. Wait...he shouldn't have been able to do that. Vivica had talked to her about the spell to reassure her. That was the most powerful containment she could do. It was advanced as she could manage without draining herself.

Did it just relax in his hold?!

....James? That was Franky's name before?

**FrankenSoul**

Franky didn't moe, and not simply because of the strange effect of Lin's strike. His breathing stopped and his eyes widened. James. The name was familiar to him right away. It just... sounded right and brought forth emotions he didn't understand.

Watching them for their reactions, Lin had to say, he was expecting more. Oh well. He couldn't be too disappointed. One was paralyzed and the other scared half to death. Looking back at the pages, he scanned before turning it and spoke again. "James Cromwell. You had a brother named Luke who worked with me for some time, acting as my apprentice. He was highly-"

Franky let out a low whine, causing Lin to stop and look curiously. The undead's eyes had become moist and several expressions battled for dominance. Rage. Guilt. Joy. He knew that name! He knew that name very well! Saying it out loud almost physically HURT him with emotions, the strongest of which was loathing. Why? Surely this Lin was about to tell him. After all this time, a stranger had just walked in and would answer all of his questions.

Uttering a low chuckle, Lin acted as if nothing had happened. "-highly talented in magical arts. I knew you through him. The two of you were very close. I allowed him to strike out and begin a project of his own, and before I knew it..." Lin snapped the book shut, and with a twirl of fingers it hovered over his open palm.

"He had begun research into forbidden areas without my permission. Tampering with spirits, dabbling in the dark arts, and yes, experimenting upon the undead."

The man’s face slackened, sadness leaking through the weakened mask. “I didn’t discover this until it was far too late. Until something drove Luke into doing something unimaginable… He killed you, James. I’m so sorry.”

No. No, this was all too much. Franky’s fingers twitched, a surge of sensation returning to him. Stiffly, and very slowly, Franky’s hands moved in jerking motions until they covered his face. A low sound between a whine and a hum hovered in his throat, his chest feeling far too cold and far too tight. He had a… brother. Who had tried to- who DID kill him. This story, these names, there were so familiar. Like an itch at the back of his skull that he couldn’t scratch. Did he even want to hear this anymore? He wasn’t sure if he could take it. Turning, he attempted to hide his face against Ciya, the only one who had been able to drive out the chaos of his mind so many times before.

Lin lifted a brow before lowering it, his sympathy apparent. The blow upon Franky’s chest was wearing off quickly then as he recovered. Still, he wasn’t attacking for now, so he would remain. “I’m sorry.” He repeated.

“If it’s not apparent, your brother used your body and soul to continue his research. To make you a subject of his studies. When I confronted and let an attack against Luke’s labs, you escaped after having grabbed his grimoire. It took me some time to find you, and when I did I was not certain you were safe to approach. But now that the grimoire is active, I had no choice but to come so that you would not harm yourself with such power.”

**PhoenixAshes**

At the sound, Ciya looked immediately to Franky. Her fear of Lin and the book wasn't gone, but her worry about for the stitched man beside her was override it. She almost wanted to tell Lin to stop, but....Franky wanted to know, right? Indecision gripped her and Lin went on.
Franky's, no James, James's brother killed him? The information saddened the pixie. She watched as the man beside her moved to cover his face. Hesitantly she reached, pressing her hand gently high on his back in a motion of comfort only to have him turn into her. Without a second thought, she wrapped her arms around protectively. Unsure if it would help at all, but hopeful.
This was so hard for him...but, a terrible thought came over her.
She looked over her shoulder at Lin, scrutinizing him with a look from head to toe, the gaze that was usually warm honey seemed more like hardened sap now. "How can we trust you? How are we not sure that's a lie?" Or partly a lie.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh, what a clever one she was. It was good to question things instead of blindly accepting them, and she made a good point. He resisted the urge to smile- he had never been good with interactions- and gestured towards Franky who remained pressed against her.

"My proof is there. And here." A gesture, and the book opened itself to show the name of its owner embedded within its cover. Luke Cromwell. Surely that would convince her? And if not...

"There was another reason I waited." His gaze softened. "His memories are gone. That's a normal side-effect from what happened. There's many things I can't explain that he himself must know. I've studied for years, trying to find a way to help him. I can't give him life, but..." He paused, hesitant to give out the information. "I can assist and give him back his memories."

Franky stilled once again. His memories... Turning, he peered at Lin sideways and felt a deep need. Everything he'd always wanted to know. This man could help him? Just like that? Seeing his interest, Lin gave a curt nod. "Yes. Your family, your life, it's been locked away within you. The trauma does this, but I have a remedy. A uh..." He fought a smile.

"Potion of sorts that all you must do is drink."

Franky fought hard against the feeling of despair. Drink? The ONE thing he couldn't do! Sitting up suddenly, he gestured at his mouth. There was no way he could drink a potion! Just the thought of anything getting close to his mouth... The undead shuddered. It wasn't possible. Wasn't there any other way?

"Yes, yes," Lin shook his head at the sudden attention from the other. "I am aware of your situation, but the potion must be swallowed. Don't fret. I can assist you, and it will be hard but it IS possible." His smile returned, now seeming easier. "Naturally, I won't force it from you. Here." Another snap of his fingers and the book moved into his grasp. Swiftly he touched it and muttered words under his breath. Astonishingly, the aura of evil that had radiated forth from the tome seemed to drain away. Not entirely, but noticeable enough to ease the feeling of heaviness from the air.

Turning, Lin offered it out to Franky.

"Keep this. Read from it if you wish. There are records of Luke's work and thoughts within, to prove what sort of person he was. I will give you time to process all of this. If you decide that you need me... Well, simply have someone call me name. Is that agreeable?"

Franky hesitated. His arms shook, feeling the deep desire to take the book. Take it, read from it, consider this man's words... perhaps agree entirely. Franky's eyes darted to Ciya, desperate for some kind of input. His own judgement was clouded, he knew this. He was desperate, he was childish, and he was afraid.

**PhoenixAshes**

Her hold tightened on Franky when Lin motioned. Technically the reaction was circumstantial at best, Franky had been so desperate to know that this could be simply reaching for familiarity. However, it was hard to deny the name in the book. Ciya tensed as it turned to her, chills going down her spine.

At further explination curiosity edged in. Why? Why was Lin so bent on helping Franky? Yes, the brother had been taught by him but why was it now his duty to fix this?

The man in her arms moved and she looked to him. It must sound great this promise of all returning, but Ciya was hesitant.

Potion? Oh, she wasn't sure she liked the sound of that. Especially with Lin's upturning mouth.

She hadn't much time to think as Franky broke away, just as put off by the idea as she was. Although, clearly, like his motioning signaled, for other reasons.

The offer however, was set. And Franky's desperate gaze prompted her question again.
"Before he takes it," The fact that he would didn't feel like a choice any more, but something that had to be done. Franky...he had a chance. "I want to know why you're so intent on helping him. What's the cost of," She paused and motioned to the book and then back to Lin, "this."

**FrankenSoul**

Yes, they would take it. The way the entire ordeal was staged, there wasn't really a way to say no. "Franky" looked to his loved one for help in this, and Lin didn't expect otherwise. The undead's emotions would be in turmoil. He needed someone who could take a step back and help him. Of course, it was somewhat annoying now how she continued to question his motives. But once agian, he couldn't blame her. The entire thing was very shady, and they would be taking a lot on faith.

The cost...? Offense flashed across his face before he subduded it.

"There is no cost. I'm responsible for this, and I wish to fix what's happened. I knew him and his family well, and I dare call them friends. Surely you out of all people..." Using his free hand, he gestured towards her healing arm. "Would understand wanting to help someone suffering?"

**PhoenixAshes**

This quieted Ciya. Yes, yes, she knew. She was always good at that. When she and Vivica found eachother she'd helped the witch, and therefore helped herself, and then Franky... Her gaze went to him again and turned warm. "Take it, if you want it." The words were soft, spoken only for him.

Returning her attention to this near stranger. "Just be warned, I still don't trust you." Even as physically weak as she was now, there was a sense of other stregnth in this. "If he's hurt by this, by you , know that it will not be pleasent for you." It felt a bit like a bluff comming from her. She knew how soft and kind she looked, but when she was fully well, not limping, not suffering from blood loss and recouperating, she and the plants that could come to aid could be terrifying.

**FrankenSoul**

Her words caused a visible pause in Lin, who's smile temporarily faltered as he sensed a great danger and power within the other. But of course there was. She was in love, wasn't she? And there was no greater power and motivation than that. With his diminished expression, the odd man that had suddenly burst into their lives gave a small nod in understanding.

Franky was still hesitating, unable to think clearly again for what felt like the hundredth time. But Ciya, his guardian angel, had told him all was well. That he could take the book after all it had done to her... In halting, jerking movements due both to his fear and the strange spell that had been placed over him, Franky's fingers curled around the book. Even without a sense of temperature, he simply knew that the cover was freezing to the touch. Lin released it, and before he knew it Franky was holding the item in his grasp as it stared back at him in what felt like curiosity. It was done.

Casting a glance up, Franky pondered what would happen next when he felt a sudden pressure in his head. Groaning, he bent forward and placed his face in his hand.

The edge of Lin's mouth twitched once again and he repeated his sweeping bow from earlier. "And that is my cue to leave, before your body completely resumes its earlier state. We don't want to induce a state of panic, do we? Just remember, both of you," His gaze moved across them as they would need to work together to summon him.

"I'm merely a shout away."

It was time for him to take his leave. Excusing himself once more, without rush he turned and strode forward out of their home as easily as he had come. The door closed with a definate thud, leaving them in silence to stew upon their thoughts.

Franky was unable to act for what felt like an eternity. He simply stared at the book upon his lap, hands resting at its base and eyes half closed. So many thoughts swirled within his mind, chasing each other in repeating patterns. Finally, without warning he turned and pushed his face against Ciya's side, a hand reaching out for her own. A large breath exhaled forth from him, and he shuddered, overcome. Oh Ciya... Ciya, Ciya.

**PhoenixAshes**

As long as they understood eachother then. Ciya thought, letting out a small breath at the affirmative response. From there she watched the transfer of the book from the strange man to Franky. Her honey eyes staying on it for a long moment before deciding she didn't have to watch. It may have been evil before, but whatever Lin had done had significantly lessened the horror of it.

That was it then.

When the stitched man leaned and groaned, the pixie rubbed her hand over his back again. A quiet question of concern came in the form of the name she'd always called him, the one he wrote to her when they met.

She turned her head at Lin's explination of what was causing this and a reminder of how to call him back. The pixie stared his way until he was out of her sight, quietly willing his existance out of the house like sage to a bad spirit.

The stillness of the Franky worried her, but she was sure it was simply whatever Lin had done wearing off. After a long moment she spoke again, "Franky?"

Suddenly he was huddled against her, his hand stretching for her, which she answered with her small one. The other hand brushing soothingly over his hair. "It's okay, Franky. " She cooed. "Everything will be all right."

**FrankenSoul**

That voice of hers, that wonderful voice. It kept him grounded more than ever in the swirling storm. Right. Deep breaths. In, and out. Slowly and carefully. Even though the breath wasn't needed, it still helped calm his frayed nerves. Finally, he was able to collect himself enough. With a bit of pride, he was glad to see that his eyes were dry despite everything.

He looked at Ciya, unsure on where to begin. On where to start. Well, he supposed he would bring out his booklet so he could speak. He did so, and although his writing was still shaky it was clear enough.

'What do we do now...?'

**PhoenixAshes**

Even when he moved away,Ciya kept her hand on him somewhere. Either his shoulder or low on his nonwriting arm, her touch remained to give him something solid. Franky...her brave Franky.

Her gaze held on the question. What to do..she was lost on that as well. "I don't know." She admitted, softly.

**FrankenSoul**

So even she didn't know. But of course she wouldn't know! He was being so... so weak right now. She must be as lost as he was. Organize. Think.

He frowned somewhat as he stared down at the booklet, sparing a few glances towards the book itself resting on his other leg. It didn't seem dangerous anymore, but stilll... His hand moved across the paper, and he forced it to become more stable.

'We need to tell the others about this. It ended badly the last time we kept secrets. We can't be sure that everything the man said is truth... or if any of it was. To be honest, I-' He paused.

'I'm not sure if I want it to be true. They're answers and they seem to make sense, and the names seem to click with something in my head. But...'

But these were some dark topics and histories that they were talking about. Evil magic. Betrayal.

**PhoenixAshes**

Reading she nodded in agreement. "We will when they get back." No more secrets, not when it came to this.

She sighed. He was unsure...it was impossible to blame him. A brother, his brother, if Lin was to be believed, was the betrayer-- the killer. Ciya felt her chest tighten at the thought. She'd known all along Franky was dead,but the circumstances hadn't sat with her long enough.

Gently, she moved closer, her hands cupping his face.

**FrankenSoul**

Then they were in agreement. They would tell the others, and then perhaps with their thoughts they all could- wait what was she doing? Oh. Oh, affection. Right, he had almost forgotten that she must be effected by all of this too. Was she scared? For herself, for him? His expression softened and he returned the gesture, his hands upon her face and carefully bumped his forehead against her own. Briefly, his eyes had flickered to her lips. If they were able to "cure" him, and perhaps even allow him to undo his mouth... there might be hope for him yet. Hope for both of them.

When at last everyone else had gathered together from their various tasks, Franky and Ciya were able to recall all that had happened. Jozef for the most part remained silent, staring at the book and confirming that the book's power had been lessened considerably. It still reeked of foul magic, but it was contained within it insteat of radiating. Still, he wasn't all too happy to have it loose within his home.

Slick took it upon himself to once again smack the back of Franky's head, bark out a somewhat cross comment about people always getting in trouble behind his back, and then briefly embraced the undead. He was just glad that everyone was still safe and sound. He couldn't believe that the old man had actually been a powerful mage this entire time... Then again, he had witnessed strange people around him with white cloaks. He had considered them a cult, but now he wondered if they were even more dangerous than that. Tugging at his fingers, the naga clicked his tongue a few times. "I don't like this. I don't like this at all. I KNOW a snake when I see one, and he seems to be one. There has to be bad motives behind someone like this. And, even if you were to get your memories back Franky," Slick's eyes narrowed. "What if they changed you? A person is composed of their memories and thoughts. To unlock more from an earlier life... Well, what if you became a different person completely?"

The undead's eyes widened from where he leaned against the wall, the evil book clasped gingerly against his chest. He... he hadn't considered that. But Slick had a point. If he unlocked memories and learned about his past, would he stop loving Ciya...? The thought was unacceptable and he pushed it aside in anger. No, of course not! He didn't care what memories he had, he would still carry the ones with her too and would continue to love her no matter what.

The naga pulled at his hair, huffing as he turned to his witchy friend. "Vivica, what do you think of all of this...?"

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie took comfort in his mirrored affections, knowing it must sooth him as much as it was helping her. Oh, what a stressful short time this had been. Even the calmest moments felt lightly tinged from it by this point.

While it all mattered, right now she just focused on holding Franky. The hardest part seemed to be yet to come.

In listening to the happenings, Vivica remained very quiet. It seemed where ever they went their little band could cause trouble; definitely not a very endearing quality to project to their host.

She frowned at the comment of Slick knowing a snake. That was agreeable. Lin, when they'd come across him, had been very off. There was something uncomfortable about him. Perhaps his young looking face contrasting with the aged hair, or the too keen smile made him seem so.

An eyebrow raised at the naga's next comment. Yes, the memories. They could have a profound changing effect. Worriedly, she glanced to Ciya.

The pixie was looking at her hands, contemplating the idea. Memories would change things. Bit's of Franky's old personality may come back and be something that was hard to adjust to or other things. The idea worried her but she did not speak on it.

Her head turned when Vivica sighed.

The witch turned to look at Josef and simply said this, "I'm sorry we've brought so much trouble to you in our stay like this." It was polite, given by this point Jozef had his space invaded, his opinion undermined by an impulsive pixie girl, his flowers killed in places, and now his home had just been barged into by Lin. The poor metal man's peace had definitely been ruined by them.

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