Undergrowth (Log 10)

**PhoenixAshes**

The pixie watched and slowly, this exaggerated frustration wasn't feeling as great as she'd been hoping for. Slick was not his chipper self, very much not himself, and now that he was painfully sober making him see what his drunken version had done felt--well, a little cruel. In this raggled naga she saw something familiar, something that mirrored Franky in a way. Maybe to a lesser extent? No, just different.

Gasping realization and his blurted apology, which was clearly and incredibly sincere, softened Ciya's expression. He knew what he did, he knew the risidual effect it had...no need to torment him about it further. When his gaze flicked back, she felt a small jab of guilt of her own, However, the lingering grain of issue she had with him was swept away. "You're forgiven, Slick."

**FrankenSoul**

Her expression was... softening? Gods it was far too early to be going through this. Wait, was that a trace of guilt on her face? No no, she shouldn't feel guilty. She didn't do anything wrong, it was his fault. Though... he was acting outside his normal behavior. He blamed his pounding headache and the fear he had ruined something wonderful between two people he loved.
Beginning to calm down, he huffed and ran a hand through his hair. Forgiven, so easily? Hah, well, that was new. He managed a half smile, now seeing he had made the air tense. "Sorry... erm, for getting so dramatic. I'm just... worried. Are you two okay? Geez I'm a big idiot. If you wanna smack me or something for it, it's fine with me. Though I ask for you to wait until I can at least think straight before you knock my stars out." His smooth smile became somewhat easier. By reading her reactions, it wasn't... too bad with her and Franky. They were just cross with him for starting stuff. Right?

**PhoenixAshes**

"We're...." She paused, searching for the right word. "We're okay." It had been hard to hear such news, but the tears she and Franky had both shed and having talked through it had helped. It had helped immensely. "And you are a big idiot." This was said forcefully but not harshly. "But I'm not going to hit you for it. I may pollen dust you for good measure at somepoint, but not now." A smile came at that last part.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh that pause was not a good sign. Uttering a low breath, he rubbed at his eyes hard. Who knew what had happened? Still, they were okay she claimed despite the pause. Oh he'd be making this up to them for weeks and weeks, if not longer.

Upon agreeing with his 'idiot statement,' He chuckled and slowly rose to his feet. Pollen...? Ah, of course! She had threatened him with pollen last night hadn't she? When... Vivica and he were alone. He felt his face grow warmer again and cleared his throat before shaking his head with a smile. "Well, as long as it's not forever, then I suppose I could deal with that for a day or two~ Have you seen Vivica by the way...? I know this conversation isn't really over, but I also have business with out witchy friend. And by business, I mean avoiding her forever. I believe I embarrassed myself with her almost as much as I embarrassed myself with you two. Oh, and.... I will try to help however I can with you and Franky-boy, especially now that I owe you. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask it of me."

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya hummed in amusement at his nonchalant reaction to the threat of dusting. That was better, much more the Slick she knew. The question about the witch set a look of interest and a giggle as he continued. Avoid her forever? Well, if he kept traveling with them that would be nearly impossible.

What was interesting about this was that Vivica seemed just fine, and unbothered by the events that happened after Ciya left. So it couldn't be that bad.

"If Franky and I do, we will." Came the reply to his last sentiment, just as a form appeared in the doorway behind the pixie.

Vivica's face may not have been as welcome of a sight to Slick, but the small bottle of an red-orange, thick and pulpy concoction would be. If he knew what it was, that is. "Morning. " She greeted, with a warm expression that seemed to hide internal laughter.

**FrankenSoul**

Okay, things seemed to be smoothing over now. Less strain in the air and Ciya was smiling once again, amused by his condition and antics. Good, he hadn't meant for his own little panic attack to leak through. He would leave those up to Franky for now. She agreed to his offer to help, with eased his spirit further though he wished his physical form would follow suit.

Before he could ponder what to do then, the woman he had just thought to avoud appeared in the doorway. He pulled the covers tight to either side of his face in an attempt to hide his rosy cheeks. Come now, get ahold of your emotions, he scolded himself. The steady throbbing of his head made that difficult for him though. Aaand Vivica was enjoying his state too now, huh?

"Yeah yeah, yuck it up you guys," He spoke with a half grin. "I don't look this bad often, so take it in before I'm glorious and sexy again~ But wait..." His eyes narrowed at the bottle of liquid she help and briefly he stuck his tongue out before speaking.

"Please tell me thats not more human dizzy-drink. If I even smell it right now I'm going to forcefully faint."

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica laughed and shook her head. "No,no. It's not. This, " She shook the bottle around making the liquid swish and by extension kept it blended. "Is to ease your hang over. Although," She looked at it, "It's got a pretty strong smell too."

At that the pixie giggled. "So, he could 'forcefully faint' anyway?"

"Yes." The witch nodded, at first serious and then a smile broke across he lips.

**FrankenSoul**

Thank the gods, for a moment he feared she might try to punish him by making him drink more! What a twisted pushishment that would be. But no, of course the kindhearted witch had went to help make him something. At the news he openly beamed, eyes widening at the news.

"Oh I could kiss you right now. ERM," He coughed, blushing once again. "T-That is to say, thank you. That's very kind of you. Though..." He paused, eyes narrowing and his tone taking on an accusing, playful note.

"How do I know it won't turn me into a frog?

**PhoenixAshes**

His bright-eyed statement seemed to freeze Viv a moment, and she only moved to look over at their pixie friend, who was, sadly, of no help. In fact, Ciya simply gave an eyebrow wiggle, the 'get it,girl' signal. The witch didn't appreciate that.

Slick's question brought her attention back. "If you're that worried I can sip it first."

**FrankenSoul**

"Heh," He smirked, the expression odd when he looked so disheveled. He moved to place his feet upon the cold boards of the floor again and stood, taking the blanket with him.

"No, I only tease. I trust you." He moved to take it from her hands, looking at the strange mixture inside. Huh...

"How long will it take to work...? And what does it taste like? Though your answers won't stop me from drinking it. I suppose we'll need to be leaving soon anyhow, and I need to get ready, yes?"

**PhoenixAshes**

She handed it over easily. "Drink it slow and you should feel a little better by the end." The concoction wasn't exactly magic, it was mostly ground up, fresh tomato, celery treated the same way, a good squeeze of a lemon, ground pepper all mixed up. It was meant to replenish what the alcohol took and clean remaining drink from them.

Ciya blinked at Slick's continued speaking. "Wait.. How did you guess that?" She hadn't gotten a chance to let him know yet. Was he as anxious to leave as Franky is?

**FrankenSoul**

Aah good then! He would drink it soon and was eager to have his headache and other assorted alighments leave. Though he suspected the 'potion' wouldn't make them all go away at once and only lessened their impact upon him. Still, he would have to get Vivica to teach him how to brew this. Just in case such a thing happened again, when he was alone.

Swirling the contents, he looked at Ciya with a lifted eyebrow. "Ah, well I assumed. The weather was stopping us, yes? And now the weather has improved and we can begin to move again. Jozef's home isn't very far from here either so if we leave this morning we may be able to arrive before nightfall. Though," His smile quirked. "I'd be happy to linger here longer. I do so adore human towns."

**PhoenixAshes**

Ah, observation. That's how he knew. Ciya nodded,bit a worried expression towards the door gave clarity to her thoughts." As nice as it's been, I'm not Franky can stay couped up for much longer. " This place stressed him and it was starting to show. "We're likely to go tonight. It's a bit safer for him to go then."

**FrankenSoul**

That's right... Franky was surely stressed right now. Why hadn't he thought of that?

Because your head is still somewhat muffled, he answered himself. They would wait until that night? Huh. "Then we will have to spend another night on the road," He murmured as he looked down at the drink he had yet to consume. He didn't like the thought of moving through the mountains in the dark, but as Ciya said, it would be safer to move their undead friend after the crowds had begun to leave. And together, surely they would be fine on the road... What could happen?

"You're worried about him," Slick spoke, expression softening. He made a mild waving motion. "If you want to, go on. All this talking is making my head ring anyway and I still need to drink this and recover. I'll start to gather my things after I feel better and swing by later on."

**PhoenixAshes**

"We likely wouldn't go too far." Vivica suggested, unknowingly on the same thought as Slick. The mountains at night would be tricky, if not dangerous. "It'd be best to just get out of the town's range and wait until morning to go again."

Ciya nodded. "That sounds best." However, Slick's noticing of her worry made the pixie a bit bashful. Now that everything was open, it'd take some getting used to when people pointed things out. Still she smiled gratefully. "I'll have to see you two in a bit."

**FrankenSoul**

Slick nodded along with Vivica. Yes, she had read his thoughts. The plan sounded nice, though sleeping on the ground with the comfort of his tail did not. Come to think of it, he wondered how long would it be before his tail returned? The turning back process was always more painful than the 'shedding' one... Ah he would get plenty of warning signs before so he shouldn't worry about it. Though, he had to admit he would miss his new toes.
He didn't even try to hide the wide grin at Ciya's blushing. Ah yes, much better this way around with him teasing her. Using his free hand to wave, he watched her go back to her loverboy. Poor couple, he again hoped he hadn't caused too much truble... Ciya might have forgiven him but Franky might hold a grudge for a while. Oh, well he would deal with it and use it as a lesson for the future. Shyly thanking Vivica one last time, he moved back to sit on the perch of his bed and slowly down the substance she had brought him. It didn't taste awful, but it wasn't exactly great either. It didn't matter as the effect began to take place, the throbbing in his head dwidling. Oh yes, he would surely have to have her teach him how to make this...

Franky was glad to see Ciya when she returned, as always. He hadn't moved from the corner of the bed since she left and to pass the time had once again taken out the strange notebook and tried to read over it for the tenth time. At the sight of her he quickly snapped it shut and put it out of sight, visible relaxing. In the following hours he was content to stay in the room with her, though for a portion of the time he sat close enough to the window to look outside at the weather. The sun's rays that broke through the drifting clouds cast an eerie glow upon his grey skin, mockingly resembling the glow of health and life. He was far "quieter" than normal also, not really touching his writing booklet but his fingers moving to tap the pocket in which the notebook resided. Below he could safely see people moving about without fear of them seeing him. He looked down upon them occasionally, blue eyes hiding deeper thoughts.

Finally, the sun began to dip lower and the shadows began to grow longer. Slick had recovered moderately and straightened out, combing his hair and dressing after having gathered the things he had aquired. One such thing included a sort of purse with a strap that looked around his torso. It would be easy to carry some thing within it, even when he gained his tail back. Meeting with Vivica, the two of them walked to Franky and Ciya's room together and knocked promtly. Without waiting for a reply, Slick began to inch the door open and stick his head inside.

"Hellooo? You two ready to go?"

**PhoenixAshes**

"Almost ready. Come in." Ciya called over at the door, tucking a last thing into her bag before pulling it closed. All that was left out was the rain repellant cloak for Franky and the strip of cloth they'd used as a blindfold, simply for good measure.

**FrankenSoul**

Franky glanced up at the noise. He had helped Ciya gather some things and offered smiles and teased her every so often, but in the pauses had resumed his place by the window so he could look out. Perhaps he was watching the sun to judge how long it would take to go? Whatever it was, something was wrong.

He moved to stand as the others entered and offered another stitched smile that didn't reach his eyes. Ah there they were. His halfhearted expression gave Slick pause. What was wrong...? Wasn't he happy that he could finally leave this place? He looked around the room, trying to find something that might be the cause of the others sorrow. Ah! Perhaps he didn't like being blinded? It was one of the only senses he still had. This theory was strengthened as Franky picked up the two clothing items with a barely audible sigh. Glancing at Ciya, he made a gesture to ask for help. He wasn't very good at tying the cloth around his eyes with his clumsy fingers..

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica had taken a place out of the way, leaning on the wall next to the door after closing it behind her and Slick. A needed precaution for now.

Ciya had not completely noticed how off Franky had become. She'd interpreted the window gazing as a impatient longing to be out. So his sigh wasn't out of place. She crossed to him, taking the cloak first rather than the blind fold. "We should do this one first." She offered.

**FrankenSoul**

Franky smiled at her. Well, he could manage that one on his own at least.

He was somewhat glad she hadn't noticed his odd behavior. Looking outside and catching even the briefest glimspes of the humans below normally would send him into a frenzy, but perhaps because they were so far or because she was there he had been able to stay calm. Or perhaps it was because his mild had been largely elsewhere, unable to truly think on what he was seeing.

With her help, the cloak was put on easily and covered his tall frame down to his feet. The material rustled as he moved under it, withdrawing his writing booklet to jot something down and show her.

'Before you put my blindfold on, I wanted to ask you if you could do something for me. On the way out, could you... say goodbye to Auny for me? I won't be able to write it myself, so...' His hand trailed and he looked at her with a helpless shrug. He wanted to but the conditions weren't right for it.

**PhoenixAshes**

Her hands smoothed out the fabric at his shoulders, making any bits at the bottom shiver and fall as it was supposed to. The hood was still down, so the blindfold could be later tied. At the rustling she took a step back, giving him room to grab what he was going for. Reading what he'd written and nodded, " Of course I will." She looked back up at him and the shrug qued her sympathies. "You wanted to write it yourself, didn't you?" Oh, sweethearted Franky.

**FrankenSoul**

Rubbing the back of his hed, Franky nodded at her words and gave a somewhat sheepish grimace. Well yes, of course he wanted to do it himself... But it wasn't a good idea and it surely wasn't safe. But she agreed to do it for him, and for that he was glad. Blowing air from his nose, he considered if he had anything else to say before they left and he decided no. Moving to adjust the booklet back into his clothes, he smiled and nodded at her in thanks before offering up the cloth for his face. Then let them get the show on the road then. The faster they moved, the better.

**PhoenixAshes**

Gently, the pixie took the cloth and felt it between her fingers thoughtfully. He should really have a chance to say more to Aunty Anne. A small goodbye after so long may not be enough for them.

Thankfully, the witch against the wall had put the pieces together. "Franky," She started, "if you're willing to sacrifice a page, you could write something for Aunty to read for herself?"

**FrankenSoul**

Oh... Vivica had a point. He supposed he could rip out a page and leave her a message that way.

His eyes darted to the side as he thought. But what could he say? He didn't know where to even begin. He had known her since she was a little girl and now she was having one herself. And he was leaving again, and most likely wouldn't ever be able to see her or her child's face... No, no negative thoughts now. Humming, he excused himself briefly to once again remove the booklet and write. It took him a handful of minutes to write everything he wanted to say, his back to them, but Slick caught a glimspe of a full page of writing as Franky folded it and wrote 'Anne' upon the front.
Returning back to them, he hesitantly moved to hand it to Ciya. She wouldn't read it, right? Not that there was anything bad on the page, it was just... personal.

**PhoenixAshes**

When Franky had turned to write Ciya turned, smiling softly at her friend and mouthing the words 'thank you'. Vivica smiled and waved it off. Honestly, the pixie wished she'd thought of that, since it seemed to solve everything.

Seeming to know the precious contents of the page, Ciya took it from Franky gently as if it might shatter if she didn't. She wouldn't read it, it wasn't for her--not matter her curiosity. "I'll make sure she gets it." She promised, and gently placed the page on the near by nightstand, so she could secure the blindfold for Franky. "You're going to have to bend for me...I'm short."

**FrankenSoul**

Franky hummed, appreciating the way she handled his note. His spirits had lifted somewhat at being able to 'talk' to his old and first friend one last time.

His smile turned crooked at her last comment. Heh, oh yes how could he forget his loved one was so small? Well, compared to his long legs at least. Another different between them that they had to work with, but he didn't mind. Turning his back to her, he knelt somewhat so that she could reach him with relative ease.
In the corner, Slick had remained silent but his clearing mind had been observing many things. Something was still bothering Franky, but now wasn't the time to address it. Perhaps later that night he would try mentioning it to Vivica or ask Franky directly, but only after they had left the town.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya smiled softly at his compliance to her request and very gently placed the cloth over his eyes, making sure not to catch his hair in the knot she tied at the back. "There. " She spoke softly, slipping around to the front so she could easily pull the hood up, and thereby hide the stiches that might cause stares if someone were to see him by chance. "All set." Her hands rested at his upper arms now as a signal for him to stand again. They were ready.

**FrankenSoul**

The group moved down the stairs carefully. Slick led the way, looking around for anyone who might give them any trouble. But, downstairs there was only one or two people lingering at the tables as the rest of the evening crowd had either moved on or had just not come yet. Aunty Anne was behind the counter as always, though she moved to sit back on a stool to rest her weary feet.

As they moved down the stairs, Franky needed to be guided. Falling down wouldn't really harm him, but it could still rip a few stitches out and they'd have to linger longer to fix them. Taking Ciya's hand, he followed behind her hesitantly with his other arm pressed close to his body. He truly did look mysterious in such a get-up, and anyone who peered closer and saw the stitched mouth might take him for a necromancer or worse. Luckily, there was no one to peer that close except for Aunty who gave a small, sad smile as she spotted them and they moved closer.

"Heading out then I suppose? I can't lie, I'm... going to miss you all. But you all best take care of each other out there, okay?" She was obviously doing her best to suppress emotion in her voice, and Slick was sure he spotted some moisture in her eyes.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya held tight to Franky's hand, going slow so he could feel his way down the stairs without falling, and if he did trip shecould brace him and likely avoid any chance of harm to him. In her free hand was the page meant for Aunty.

"We will." Vivica told Aunty, getting to her first. "Thank you again for everything."

Ciya looked to Franky, knowing he might start to get tense as he did when they entered.

**FrankenSoul**

Aunty smiled and moved around the counter. No use in saying goodbye with it between them...

Really, it was her pleasure to help them. These people deserved her help and so much more. She glanced towards Ciya and Franky and felt her heart grow warm. She wished them happiness. And it seemed he was in the right hands... "You all come back somtime to visit..." Even though she knew that was unlikely.

Franky felt himself tense now that they were in the open. The voice of Anne both set him on edge and soothed him. Strange. But it was time to say goodbye then, and he wanted to do one last gesture before he left. Carefully, he felt for Ciya's other hand and gently took the paper from it. He smiled at her, the expression meant to be reassuring to both he and she. He turned and remembering where Anne's voice had come from, he moved towards her and offered her the paper. He still held it out slightly in the wrong direction though, causing Anne to laugh quietly before carefully taking it from his hand. "What's this...? For me?"

She began to unfold it and quickly her eyes ran across the page. Her expression grew warmer after finishing. "Franky, it's been good to- Oh!"

Suddenly, she found two arms around her and a face on her shoulder as Franky enveloped her in an embrace. The motion was shocking to her and Slick, who himself tensed as if afraid that the undead might try to crush her. He relaxed though as Anne placed her hands on Franky's back in return for a moment before he pulled away. If Aunty Anne had been fighting teers before, she surely was now.

Franky returned to Ciya's side and searched for her hand again, giving a mild nod and his own expression largely hidden. He... needed to do that before they left.

**PhoenixAshes**

Both Ciya and Vivica tensed at the sudden action, having not expected it in the slightest. Franky hugging a human and not freaking out? Even if it was someone who'd been good to him, this, this was new. The pixies hand pressed to her chest, her heart feeling as if it would burst with the sight of this. How incredibly sweet.
When he returned to her, she immediately reached out for his hand, taking a tight hold. "We'll see if we'll be back this way, Aunty Anne. " She geinuinely promised.

**FrankenSoul**

"You best," she managed, quickly wiping at her eyes and giving a few sniffs. Slick slid her a warm look and nodded, agreeing with the idea. He liked this human woman. She was very kind. He had been meeting a lot of people like that lately...

Bidding their last farewells, they moved together to the door and she followed them, waving at them as they departed down the road they had come. The night air was cool and fresh and the insects had just begun to sing as the birds rested for the night. Above, a large moon shone down on them as if to help them light their way. The town behind them grew smaller and smaller, the lights fading as the mountains before they loomed larger still.

The moment that they were out of sight of the village, Slick made a clicking noise with his tongue and spoke, "Okay Franky-boy I think you're good to go."

Franky had clung to Ciya's hand like a blind man, which he technically was at that moment. He tripped over a few stray rocks every so often, but he was able to keep pace with the rest. She might have felt his hand give the occasional shiver, working its wary up his spine. He hadn't been able to stop trembling since he had touched Anne, but the cloak and the darkness helped him hide it. He didn't want the others to know how badly that had effected him...

At Slick's words, he wasted no time. Swiftly he slid the cloth from his face and blinked before shedding the cloak by directly pulling it over his head. He sighed, allowing his shoulders to give a few more shakes as he looked back the way they had come. No lights. No town. No humans. Good, good... They were safe.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya held tight to Franky's hand, holding to his arm with her other hand when he slipped on the rocks and swayed. The second time she kept herself here, starting to feel a shuddering, worry had settled into her expression but was hidden from the naga and witch thanks to the dark. Perhaps that moment, that amazing and strange moment he'd given to his friend had effected him more than she expected.

Considering how quickly he moved away and practically ripped of his disguse--it had.

**FrankenSoul**

Breathing the night air and hearing the soothing sounds of the wilderness helped sooth him further. Moving his hair away from his face, he began to bundle the items in his arms and motioned for Slick to come closer so that Franky could put the items away in the pack upon the naga man's back. After doing so, Franky offered his group a smile, feeling suddenly embarrassed for having undressed so violently. He hummed and rubbed the back of his head in apology. He was fine. Truly, he was fine. He was calming, and if he had a living heart it would be slowing. Whatever the effect on him, it had been worth it.

Slick chuckled, playfully and lightly pushing Franky before looking ahead. They had began to move into a pass between the mountains. It was truly beautiful, with trees sprouting up all around their path. The path itself was raw and largely unused. Not many people went this way. On either side, Slick observed that the mountains almost seemed like giant waves waiting to fall upon them.

He began to move again, motioning for the others to follow. "Come, there's a small stream up ahead. It's just off the path and hidden behind a grove of trees, so I think it would be a good place to rest. That is, if you all want to do so early tonight and start moving first thing in the morning."

**PhoenixAshes**

Franky's smile made the pixie smile slightly, his bashfulness was so cute. He seemed to be easing as well. That was good.

Even in the growing dark, the world around them was still beautiful. At Slick's suggestion of a place to stay, there seemed to be a sense of agreement. "I like that idea." Vivica replied, breathing in the fresh air. One thing for sure about days after the rain, it was always clearer.

"You said Jozef's is about a day after this,yes?" Ciya asked, reaching for Franky's hand again. She'd been enjoying that, even if it was for guidance purposes and for use as his anchor.

**FrankenSoul**

Gladly, Franky took her hand and squeezed it lightly, casting her a sideways glance. It was good to be out of that little room, but he was suddenly aware of how public he and she were again. But, when had that stopped him before? He would gladly hold her and adore her, audience or no. They began moving and as they did so, Slick nodded to answerd.

"Yes, it takes longer because the ground starts to tilt upwards further on. His home is placed in a high area, like a hill between its larger mountain cousins." The edge of his lip twitched upwards. "That's what slows us down the most, though the distance isn't that great in itself. I've been told Franky can climb it himself very quickly because he doesn't have to worry about running out of stamina. Isn't that right buddy?"

Franky didn't answer. He was looking off to the side, trailing beside Ciya with a distant look in his eyes. When the silence grew longer, he sensed something was wrong and looked at them with a start. "Hm..? Hmm! Mhm!" He answered quickly, ducking his head somewhat again. Slick made a note of the odd behavior, lifting a brow but remaining silence. He drifted closer to where Vivica walked after a moment, coming to a decision as he lowly murmured so only she could hear, "Have you noticed Franky's strange... I'm not sure how to place it. It's not a behavior, rather a feeling. I suppose a strange aura?"

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya seemed to light up and gave a gentle pulse of pressure in her hold as she smiled his way. She quietly hummed in happiness until Slick began to answer, then she let the sound trail off as she listened.

Vivica nodded, making a note of the description of the place. It sounded nice. High, a good view of the lower and flat lands below, the sunrises were likely beautiful to see. Ah, but the terrain must be tough, as Slick was suggesting with his teasing to Franky. The witch looked over her shoulder toward the stitched one, and noticed the distance in his gaze. Odd. A light tug from Ciya seemed to coencide with his turn back of attention. The timing was humorus and the witch smiled as a result.

It fell quickly however, into interest and confusion as Slick sidled closer to her. "A bit." She admitted in hushed tones. "He seems distracted." It could be from being couped up so long, she rationalized, or maybe he was thinking on something else and had just had not listened to the conversation.

**FrankenSoul**

Slick was decent at understanding the emotions of others. For his friends specifically, he seemed highly turned to what was going on within them. It was a gift, though sometimes he was wrong. He felt this time he was not. Biting his lip, he observed Franky who began to drift off almost immediately after the attention had been taken away from him. Though, occasionally his eyes would glance to where his and Ciya's hands met.

Deciding to put the matter aside for now, Slick shrugged somewhat. He would remain quiet for now. Anyhow, the place they would stay at was right ahead. A unique boulder sat upon the side of the road. It looked like the top was a smiling face by the way the rock had cracked. It marked the location, and Slick waved for all to follow him. Pushing through the brambles and bushes, he came upon the clearing. On their left side was a sudden rise of earth of the mountain. They could place their backs to it and feel secure that night. To their right was indeed a small stream that babbled over smooth stones. Behind them was the decently thick forest they had just walked through, which would hide them from anyone else who might walk through the path. With a happy sigh, Slick shed his packs and bags onto the soft grass and moved towards the center of the clearing. Sticks were plentiful and laying about, and he quickly snatched them and began to pile them.

"I say we start a fire and get comfortable. I brought bread and dried meat, courtesy of our lovely host for the last few days. Let's enjoy our last night on the road then, shall we?"

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica was sure this conversation, and by extention Slick's suspicions as well as worries, was not over. However, the appearance of the landmark boulder had pushed it aside for now, along with the underbrush and occasional low hanging branch along their way to the spot their naga friend had spoken of. He hadn't been making false promises, it was perfect.

With the bags down, the little group seemed at relative ease already.

"To our last night on the road." Vivica smiled, agreeing finding enjoyment in this last night of travel. May it be good, may it be safe.

**FrankenSoul**

The fire was made relatively quickly, as Slick brought up the small bits of flint and steel and cast the sparks into the pile he had carefully crafted. Latching onto some of the smaller ones, the sparks quickly grew larger and warmer. With a sudden idea, the naga man hoisted up his britches and moved towards the water. It was freezing cold against his skin, causing him to hiss slightly and mumble, "Cold, cold, cold."

When he returned, his arms were full of rocks which he then began to line around the fire. There, that would keep it contained and now it was a proper campfire. Moving his freezing feet closer to it, he sighed happily. There, much, much better. Reaching into the bag, he withdrew the meat and began to pass it along to the others before following it with the bread. Not the most flavored meal, but it would do.

As usual, Franky took a decent distance from the fire and placed his back against the wall of earth. His legs were pulled up somewhat and his arms draped across them. He watched his friends silently, eyes half closed. They seemed to be enjoying themselves, at least. Slick wasn't wrong. He was troubled. Thoughts had lodged themselves in his head along with a longing he was unfamiliar with. He wasn't sure why such things were happening now, but they were like insects preying upon his mind. He huffed lowly, moving to rub at his eyes. He likely wouldn't sleep that night with such an active head.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica had gone about gathering a few more substancial pieces of stray wood only to come back with her armful to find the naga headed for water. "Slick, what are you--" She began to ask only to break into a light laugh at his hiss. Of course it was cold. That water was likely run off from the higher snow caps in the mountains.

The pixie had found the situation funny as well, more so at Slick's audiable relief as his feet warmed. "You looked like you regretted that." She teased. "It looked like you were really starting to get cold feet."

There was an audible smack as Vivica put her hand to her forehead due to that terrible terrible pun.

**FrankenSoul**

They were enjoying his pain a bit too much! Though he knew it was all in good fun and aimed at his behavior more than anything else. He couldn't help but smile and laugh with them. It was infectious. Though at the pun, he bursted out laughing and had to hold his sides for a moment, mostly due to Vivica's reaction and the look on Ciya's face when she said it.

"Ah gods, I picked the right group to tag along with!" He spoke between the laughter, moving to wipe the sides of his eyes.

Wiggling his toes somewhat, they did feel much better so close to the fire. Settling down, he managed a few chuckles before he finally recovered. His voice even once again, he said proudly, "I'm not too sure if I've told you this, but nagas are at home in the water. Of course we don't normally live in it, but it's soothing for us. That's not too surprising though, seeing as some clan legends talk about our ancestors being guardians and spirits of water sources."

**PhoenixAshes**

At Slick's laughter the girls joined in as well, Ciya bightly giggling because someone actually enjoyed her pun, and Vivica because how could anyone enjoy a pun that bad.
"Oh?" The pixie perked to listen now that the topic was brought up.
Vivica however, looked completely interested, as was her way. "Just some?"

**FrankenSoul**

"Yes, some." He confirmed, trying to hide a smirk. Oh he had their attention now, didn't he? But, he couldn't help but notice someone else who wasn't enjoying the fun like they were... Franky stared at them from where he sat, his legs pulled up and a hard look on his face. He had one of his books out and seeing as he wasn't talking, it must be his notebook of strange writing. Huh.

Pushing that aside for now, Slick lifted a brow at his audience. "Well, there are scattered religions for my people, like any people. Some say that we came from spirits of the water who somehow took flesh form to spawn forth our race. Another which is more dominate from where I come from comes from a legend of a goddess and an intelligent snake that uh... Well, through a serieis of events, fell in love and both sacrificed the lives they knew to be together, and their children were the first naga."

**PhoenixAshes**

"We're not children, Slick." Vivica laughed softly at his hesitance. "You can tell us the snake and the goddess 'did it'." The witch put air quotes around the last two words.

At that the pixie giggled and had to put her hand over her mouth to keep the bite of their meal she'd taken hidden. So far, neither had noticed the solemn looking Franky, as it wasn't unusual for him to be distant from a fire. Even Ciya, who had been so attentive figured the flame to be the reason for his lack of participation.

**FrankenSoul**

Okay now, what had gotten into these two? Rolling his eyes heavily, Slick huffed and blew his hair from his face. Gods these two though.

"Yes, well they DID IT then. But it's much more romantic than that! They both left the lives that they knew to become the first nagas so that they could be together. Though I'm not sure I believe in this goddess myself. I haven't ever seen her, and I don't think I've ever been given help from her. But," He rolled his shoulders in a shrug, keeping his tone casual. "I'm not sure how I stand on the issue of religion and afterlife anyhow." Then again, seeing as Franky had come back from the dead, maybe there was hope still for peace after death.

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya smiled, trying to reassure Slick. After all, she and Viv had been taking passes at him all day "I bet the whole legend of them is very sweet."

The witch nodded in agreement, continuing to listen. "That's the wonder of these things." She stated. "They're mysterious in their way. A lot of people don't know what to believe."

**FrankenSoul**

Yes, very sweet. But he wasn't up to repeating it tonight. He wasn't sure if it was wonder to have to many different beliefs and mysteriousness around the end. It seemed more like terrifying. But no, he must keep his mind off of it tonight. He did wonder what both of them believed, but he wouldn't press them. Yawning largely, he stopped when he felt an itch in his mouth. Pausing, he checked by pressing a finger inside. Aah... "Seems my fangs are coming back. A few more days and I'll have my tail back."

**PhoenixAshes**

Ciya leaned trying to see in his mouth after he mentioned the fangs. "How do you know?" She asked, curiously, suddenly very tempted to ask him to say 'ah'. "Do your teeth just start to get sharper again?"

A hand reached and gently pinched the back of Ciya's shirt, a gentle tug pulling her back to her seat, Vivica watching her a moment before looking at Slick.

"I'm surprised you have a specific time frame."

**FrankenSoul**

There they went again, causing him to laugh at their antics. She looked like she was ready to crawl into his mouth and get a close look! Oh and then Vivica had to pull her away. He would have gladly showed her his teeth, though he would be tempted to tease her about biting.

To answer Ciya's first question, he nodded while tilting his head. "Well, yes. My kind has residual, non-active magic in our veins. It's what helps with this little process. Normally, the first things to start changing back are the teeth, fingernails, or eyes. I've..." He trailed off for a moment as he remembered something before resuming. "Shed my tail a number of times before, and every time once the signs start to appear I revert back within a matter of days. How sad, I was only just getting used to my toes."

**PhoenixAshes**

"Ooh." The pixie nodded, content with that answer. Vivica, the ever curious witch she was, was not. Both were both sympathetic to how he'd miss his toes.

She was curious why he'd paused but it seemed more pressing that she ask further about the changing. "Slick, is there a limit to how many times you can change?" There were a few other questions, some being about how the non-active magic might be a loose connection to the ledgend of how nagas came to be, or maybe just a biological response.

**FrankenSoul**

Oh boy he had gotten them started now. Wasn't Franky supposed to be the curious one? But he wouldn't turn down attention when it was given to him, even if it was based on his anatomy rather than who he actually was.

Tugging at his loose hair, he pretended to think on it. "Yes and no... There isn't a set number exactly. But if you continue to shed your tail again and again in a short amount of time, it takes longer and longer to change back until eventually you simply don't. At least, that's what I've been told." He paused again and frowned mildly, debating on how much to tell. Aw hell, might as well continue. It's not as if he were spilling his own secrets. He kept his tone light.

"Some naga have done this to live among humans permanently, though I'm willing to imagine it's a strange existance to live as something you weren't originally. It's frowned upon in my clan, and I've also heard tales of naga-turned-humans killing themselves later on, later unable to cope with the loss of their heritage. It's very risky."

**PhoenixAshes**

"That's so sad." The pixie said softly. The idea of being torn from all you knew. Her honey eyes flicked over to Vivica and then her own hands, then over her shoulder at Franky...actually, all three of them might know a thing or two about that.

Vivica gave a similar look between them.

**FrankenSoul**

"Yes, it is." Slick readily agreed. The fire didn't feel so warm anymore, and the night felt too quiet. Throwing a few sticks into the flames to bring it up higher, he pulled his legs close to himself and fought a yawn before placing his face against his legs. He hadn't meant to change the tone of the night. He had babbled on about himself. Bah. No matter. He was too tired to think on it too much, save for also noticing that such words rang true for all. For all of them were outcasts who now shared this lonely world together, if only temporarily. "Hmm... Perhaps it is time to rest. Unless either of you have any stories to share...?

From where he sat, Franky had stopped paying attention to what was being said and what was being done. His eyes instead were trained on the notebook upon his lap. The shadows cast strange shadows upon his face, and having it tilted at such an angle hid his normally bright eyes.

**PhoenixAshes**

The additional firewood helped rekindle some warmth and gave light to them. They were together in venture.

"I'm going to go sit with Franky for a bit." Ciya said, looking back at him in the shadows. "I think we've neglected him a bit in the last few hours."

**FrankenSoul**

So no stories then. It seemed he was the only one with life in his bones just then. He shouldn't have been surprised at Ciya's words, and merely nodded to add a few low ones of his own, "Yes, go see if you can perk up the Franky-boy. Perhaps he is feeling ignored."

He likely wouldn't see her approach until she was right on him, Slick wagered. Fighting another yawn, Slick turned towards the bags and dug around until he found one of the blankets. He began to wrap himself within it and bundle up a section to place his head on, thumping upon the ground with a low sound and curling his knees once again. He would enjoy the sensation of legs that night while he still could.

**PhoenixAshes**

"Goodnight you two." Ciya said warmly,before hopping up and heading toward Franky.

Vivica, after wishing Ciya a goodnight, stayed put. She hadn't been yawning and didn't have anyone to go back to, so there she was, staring into the fire. Slick's thump,turned her attention his way. "Hey, Slick," She started. "Has that cure lasted or are you starting to feel the hang over again?"

**FrankenSoul**

"Hmm?" Slick had laid so that his back was to her. He hadn't expected her to talk to him, though he didn't mind it. Turning over so that he faced her and now had his back to the fire, he blinked slowly and gave an easy grin. He spoke drowsily, "Well my head hasn't felt as if it would fall from my neck again, so I suppose it worked. Though I swear I've been over-emotional enough for five women. Erm, not that women are over-emotional, but..." Well, there he went again, sticking his temporary foot in his mouth. Nice job. "That is to say, thank you. While we linger at Jozef's I'd like to have you write down how to craft it. After I take my leave, it would be useful should I ever fall into drunken trouble again."

No. No that wasn't right. Gah! No matter how many times he rearranged the symbols and words, there was no more hidden messages or deeper meaning in the notebook. He stared at the pages for what felt like hours, hoping that its secrets would leap out at him. No such luck. A thought had been pressed into his brain and it wouldn't leave him alone. It weighted down his chest, spreading coldly against the ghostly heat his loved one had given him. And, as he thought of her he noticed her shape drawing closer. Quickly, he snapped the book shut and looked up to her. His smile didn't reach his eyes but it was there as he hummed in greeting.

**PhoenixAshes**

His turn of phrase maded her quirk an eyebrow up but she showed no other sign of dissaproval, as the flustered way he tired to cover his tracks was rather funny and a little bit endearing. "Of course, I will. But hopefully you won't need to use it." A smile crossed her lips. There was something she'd wanted to ask, but she wasn't sure catching him off gaurd while he was getting sleepy was the best time.

"Hey." Ciya smiled, plopping down next to Franky once she was close enough. "Working through the book again?" The question was posed innocently enough, but she had noticed the way he'd snapped it shut, like it was a secret that he wanted to keep only for himself. The action itself wasn't worrisome, but it in combination with his recent isolation might be the slow raising of a warning flag. The pixie pushed this aside however, for now at least, until there was more definate proof.

**FrankenSoul**

Hopefully? Oh no, he was sure he'd need to use it again. He would swear off the drink for a time, but the opportunities to drink the human dizzy-drink were usually rare and far between anyhow so normally he had forgotten the pain of his last session by that time. It was better to be prepared for it when it came. He grew quiet, happy with the warmth of the fire and the peace of the night. Though, he could read her expression rather well as he could begin to do with those he spent time with. There was curiosity in those eyes of hers. Did she want to continue to drill him on the biology of his kind...? "If you wish to ask me something," He said as he began to sit up somewhat, giving her a dreamy smile. "Ask me."

"Mhm..." He answered her, feeling suddenly shy and foolish for having pulled it out. Now that she was close, he couldn't help but reach for her hand and squeeze it gently while his other hand pushed the notebook aside and instead reached for his writing booklet. He was mute without it, after all. Looking into her eyes lovingly for a moment, he turned and began to speak in his own way.

'It's not as if I have much else to do. I can't enjoy the fire or eat with you all, so I try to find something I couldn't before in the book.' Not that he had any luck in the matter, but... it was worth a try.

**PhoenixAshes**

"It's nothing really." Vivica shrugged, not really wanting to make to big a deal in case he didn't want to answer. After all this was going to end up a little personal if he did. "You've seemed a little shy since this morning. Is that due to the hang over toning you down or are you embarassed about how you were when you were drunk?" Her darker eyes watched him carefully now, ready to tell him it was perfectly fine not to answer. She was sure it would problably come just as quickly from her as how fast Ciya talked when she was nervous. Heaven knows that girl had the fastest speech when she was trying to recover something.

She took his hand and held tightly, feeling how cold he was in comparison to her recently fire warmed skin. The difference wasn't concously noted, but goosebumps formed from the direct contact and her natural cooling. Even though she was happy to be by him again, she'd be wishing for a blanket not long from now. However, at the moment his bright eyes were a very good distraction.

Nodding at his words she leaned lightly against his shoulder. "Any luck?"

**FrankenSoul**

And at once he would regret inviting her to ask the question. Damn, here he had thought it was a simple matter of his biology. She attempted to speak calmly but still he felt a surge of energy and heat move to his face once again. He attempted to rub it away, sitting up further as he did so and avoiding her eyes while offering a curled smile. "Ah, yes. Well, I suppose... a bit of both?"

He ran his hand through his hair. It was a nervous habit. "My behavior was like that of a child, and I'm sure to regret it for a long while. I'm sorry to have put you in that position."

There she was, touching him and helping to thaw the sudden feeling of ice in his torso. He leaned against her in return, grunting sadly to answer her. No. No luck. But...

His hand picked up the nub of a pencil as it to write, paused, and then was placed down. A moment later he picked it up again but after just a few letters he stopped and made a low whining sound. He wasn't sure if he wanted to talk about this... No. No he didn't want to talk about all of it. Maybe only a portion.

'I've been somewhat jealous all day, and thinking about... things. I normally don't feel that way. But I realize now what I'm missing because of what I am. A life among kind people and old friends, the ability to belong to something larger. I can't even enjoy food with my friends.' At that he felt his eyes droop. Bah, look at him. He was doing it agian. Swiftly, he tacked on without looking at her, 'I'm sorry, I'm doing it again. All I do is complain lately. I don't understand how you put up with it.'

Yes yes, he had it so hard, didn't he? But even if it was true he shouldn't be ruining her night by sharing it with her.

**PhoenixAshes**

"You weren't that childish." Vivica's glance flicked towards the fire, recounting how drunken Slick had acted. "Maybe when you were getting tired, but that happens." She was trying to be reassuring but it didn't seem to be improving the situation. "I didn't mind helping you. I'm actually a little surprised that you requested me specifically." It hadn't occured to her at the time but, even with the silly sort of trouble he'd been, it was a little flattering. The fact that someone other than Ciya, or someone she knew for a long period, needed her help and comfort was a good feeling.

Her honey eyes whatched his hand write faster and then hesitate. Not lifting her head, she patiently waited for him to finish, like one would in a verbal conversation only to worry when he whined. What was wrong? Her gaze turned to the words again. He was...jealous? "Oh, Franky..." She spoke so softly, it wasn't clear if she'd said it at all. He had felt excluded over here. "No," She shook her head at his apology. "No,no, Franky." The pixie turned, a kind but serious look on her face. "You don't complain very much." With tenderness, her free, slim hand came to brush the hair away from his eyes. "And even if you do have a complaint it's not unjustified. We could make different arrangements with you so you could be with us." Even if he couldn't eat with them or verbally communicate, he didn't have to miss out on the connection forged by simply being near.

Something made her wonder if part of this was about the note he'd left with Aunty Anne, and the hug he'd given her that left him shaking. She just couldn't figure out a way for phrase the question.

**FrankenSoul**

He hadn't been...? His memory must be flawed then. Of course, it most likely was. He listened as she went on, turning his gaze towards the fire too and remaining largely quiet. His hand took a lock of his loose hair and moved it between his fingers as he pondered how to respond, and his own emotions. How could he word this without harming her? How did he even address this directly when he was afraid to even think on it?

"Yes, well... I think myself a good judge of character. I sense a kind and pure soul within you since the moment I saw you. I suppose in my drunken stupor, that trust I felt came out to show itself."

Without meaning to, his voice softened as the flush began to fade from his face. She was a welcomed companion when he was vulnerable. And, he appreciated that she stuck around with him that night too, though he dare not express it now.

No? What was she talking...? The look on her face silenced his thoughts as he looked at her with an owlish gaze. He turned his face against her hand, closing his eyes briefly to feel the pressure before looking back towards her. Different arrangements... No, she was missing the point. Or maybe he had said it wrong. Still, her intentions softened him. Gently he moved to grasp her hand and move it away from his face, squeezing it somewhat again and looking at her for a long moment. As he wrote, he didn't need to look down just then.

'Ciya, thank you. But that's not what I was getting at. I don't wish to be a burden on you. I don't wish to keep you away from all that's good for you. Even now you sit with me in the cold when it would be safer for you near the warm fire...'

He had seen the way bumps rose on her skin.

'It's just... I only...' Bah. He began to lose his steam, feeling the need to clam up and hide his thoughts. He shouldn't go this deep. Every other night it was a new problem between them. But, if he could do as he wished maybe he could avoid that and keep her safe and warm forever.

'-I want to know my past. I want to know who I was and what brought me to this current state. If I could only understand how I was brought back, maybe...' His grip tightened on the pencil. 'Maybe one day I could live again. Live with you, Ciya, in a world without darkness.'

**PhoenixAshes**

His response made her smile warmly. It was small and soft but very warm. "Thank you." The witch was suddenly very happy she'd taken a little time to get to know this naga man. She'd been so uncertian about him when they first met, but that seemed so silly now. Slick was a pretty good guy, all in all.

Ciya looked hopeful at his reactions to her touch and it seemed her words were getting through to him. At least she thought so, until his hand came to hers and moved it away. Even though he was holding it so tightly. Had she missed something?

It seemed so, when he started writing again. Oh that, dearhearted one, worried about her again. Even during his written sputters, and pauses she remained patient, truely wanting to know what had him so concerned.

The words he wrote next seemed to catch in her mind. That last line holding close and wrapping around her heart. "Oh Franky..." This time the phrase was audiable, but still soft.

**FrankenSoul**

He looked towards her with confusion, lifting a brow. "Hey, don't thank me, it's nothing really." He should thank her instead, but he wouldn't for now. He still felt too emotional and didn't want to say words now that would lead to trouble later. Especially about how seeing her smile made him feel happy.

Laying himself back down, he began to roll over once again. He didn't really have much else to say on the matter. He... couldn't bring himself to say anything else. He was tired now, and would try to rest again as he closed his eyes and listened to the flames.

He flinched somewhat at her words, though he wasn't sure why. Did he not want the pity he heard there? He wanted to live again, for her sake and for his own. So he could feel her warmth and smell her and perhaps, one day, love her like many other men and women did. And... And later on, would she die? He wasn't even sure how long it took for her kind to perish, but the thought of living in a world without her... It was too much to bear. No, he couldn't do it. He wouldn't do it. He would find a way to perish with her, undead or not. But, if he were alive, then perhaps they could grow old together and love each other and die together one day. It was a problem so far ahead of them, but he could see it so clearly and it scared him more than anything else.
No. He had to live again, there had to be a way. And if there was, it was hidden in that book.

He breathed heavily through his nose, his thumb rubbing across her hand.

'I hope that Jozef can help give me answers. He has to. If not...' He would just deal with that if he had to. The book still demanded blood after all, and he was willing to try his own oily brand. Tilting his head towards her, he offered the smallest of smiles before inclining it back towards the fire.

'You should go rest over there for the night. It's warmer.'

**PhoenixAshes**

"It's a little more than you think." Vivica repled, shifting so she could stand and go to her bags to pull out her bed stuffs. "That's really one of the kindest things I've ever been told. So, thank you." When he layed back down she wished him a good night and then headed off to where she could prepare for rest.

If he heard pity, she had not meant it. Just the fact that he wanted to share his deepest wish with her, that if he suceeded in finding out why he was this way and found a way to live that he'd want to be with her, it touched her deeply. Ciya would never admit it outwardly, but if there was a way she wouldn't be opposed to it.

The brush of his thumb soothed the excitement that the thoughts had brought, the sigh bringing her back into the moment. "Maybe he can", was all she could offer to his thoughts about Jozef. Maybe...maybe...

Returning his smile she read his motion well and his words. "Okay." Her hold on his hand firmed and she streached enough so she could rest her forehead against his. "But when the fire dies down to just coals, would it be okay for you to come closer?"

**FrankenSoul**

Silently, Slick screamed. Oh why did she have to say that? Why did she say that? Pulling the blanket closer to his face and bunching up further, he didn't answer as he pretended to be dozing. He couldn't allow himself to start thinking of her like that. Yes she was a very good person from what he could tell, and he found himself trusting her utterly, but... No, it was too soon to be thinking of someone else like that. Sighing silently, he closed his eyes and tried to sleep while silencing his thoughts.

Good, she would go rest. She deserved it. He was somewhat afraid she would insist with staying with him, and then he'd have to pick her up and carry her closer. He wouldn't like getting closer to the fire of course, but if it was for her own good...

She gave him their "kiss" and his smile came easier to his face. He loved her so much. He hummed happily, his chest vibrating as he listened to her words before giving a slow nod. Yes, that shouldn't be a problem. He would curl up next to her and perhaps enjoy the rare pleasure of sleep again.

**PhoenixAshes**

Vivica said no more, figuring Slick wanted to settle in and get some rest. It made sense. From the sound of it they'd be facing some difficult terrain tommorow. Honestly, it sounded like a good plan. For everything the naga was, he did have smarts here and there, the witch thought, smiling over at his blanket bundle as she straightened out her own.

Franky's reply brought a smile to the pixie, glad to see the idea was settled with him as well. "I'm holding you to that now." She teased gently. Even if he didn't, she was sure she'd find a way to make sense of whatever decision he made. From there she rose and headed over for her witch friend, chatting softly but happily with her as she got her own things together.

**FrankenSoul**

Reluctantly, Franky watched Ciya move away from him and settle near the dreaded fire. She moved to rest as did the others, and soon they all grew quiet as sleep began to overtake them. The rest of the forest seemed to follow their example in time, the insects chirping and thrilling deadening as the hours grew longer. Franky had once again taken the book out after having quickly pushed it away before, now confident that none of his friends would see him. And once again, his eyes began to strain in the fading firelight to look over the very familiar words, searching for any patterns or secrets. Only when the light of the fire had faded enough to make reading impossible did he snap the book shut, sighing through his nose. Casting a quick glance at the suddenly brighter stars, he made sure to move silently as he found Ciya's unmistakable form and moved beside her. He looked an arm around her and pressed close, growing still himself... though his mind was far too cluttered to allow him peace that night.

The morning came swiftly, and with it the freshly stirrings of the forest and the animals within it. Several times Franky tensed as he heard animals pass close by, ready to jump and defend his friends, but the noises faded within moments. Only once did the sounds grow too loud and he had the pleasure of observing a faun moving gracefully into their campsite, cast a gentle gaze upon them as if bestowing a blessing, and then leave as quickly as it had arrived.

With his eyes open, Franky took to looking at the vines upon Ciya's arms. They had always interested him. Like veins of life, they portrayed her current state and formed complex and beautiful patterns across her skin. He could gaze at them forever.

Slick was the next one to awaken, complaining that his mouth had begun to ache terrible along with the tips of his ears. Franky frowned as the snake man sat up and spoke loudly, only realizing how loud he had been moments later and casting a wide-eyed glance around at his allies.

**PhoenixAshes**

Surprisingly enough, the loudness of Slick did not wake either of the girls, although Ciya did stir and turn toward Franky, nuzzling her face into his chest. As she did, the flower buds in the pattern of the vines opened slightly mirroring a lighter state of sleep.

Even if he had woken them, it wouldn't have been too much of a loss. It simply would have given them more time to prepare for their trek.

**FrankenSoul**

Slick paused for a moment longer, looking over the two women and exhaling a long breath in relief. Good, that was no way to start the morning. He squinted his eyes to determine how long the sun had been up. There was barely any light... So then, not long. A flicker of movement caught of his attention and he turned to see Franky adjusting his arm to Ciya's new positioon, watching Slick with hooded eyes.

Yikes. Slick couldn't decide if that look was creepy, or enduring. Had he woken up or had he just not slept? Slick gestured towards the others, indicating if they should he woken up. After a moment to think, Franky slowly shook his head. No. Let them rest a while longer.

Okay then. Quietly as he could, Slick began to gather the belongings around the campsite while moving around the resting women. They deserved it after such a long trip. Though, when they arrived at their location they would get the accommodations they had lacked.

Franky was content to hold Ciya, watching the other move about. He supposed they would need to wake up soon... Pulling away somewhat, he gently began to touch Ciya's shoulder in a light swaying motion, humming under his breath as he did so.

**PhoenixAshes**

It was the shuffling about that woke Vivica, although it wasn't as rude of an awakening as the sudden loudness of earlier Slick would have been. Figuring it was one of her fellow travelers and not some animal wanting to eat their flesh, the witch stretched under her blanket,eyes still closed as she yawned.

Slowly she sat up, rubbing the inner corners of her eyes and slowly acclimating to the surroundings and time. She was genuinely surprised she slept as well as she had. Ah, it seems Slick was the one mulling about. "Morning." Came the greeting of one who did not know how incredibly messy her hair had ended up.

The pixie woke more pleseantly, Franky's action slowly bringing her to wakefulness, the little flowers in the vines opening more and more. "Mmhm." Her eyes opened, the warm color fixing on Franky. "Well, good morning, sunshine." She murmured.

**FrankenSoul**

Oop! It seemed his motions, no matter how careful, did awaken one of their friends after all. He kept his head low and continued to gather and move, snatching up the blanket he had used to fold and tuck it away as he watched Vivica from the side of his eye. She awoke slowly, yawning and stretching in the likeness of a cat. When she finally spoke, he lifted his gaze up with a smile. "Good morn-"

He stopped as he spotted her hair, placing a hand swiftly over his mouth to silence a snort. Oh wow. Oh wow... Should he... tell her? He wasn't sure.

He beamed towards her in return, his worn eyes giving a slow blink and looking into hers. Sunshine? Oh no, if either of them was to be assigned that role, it would surely be her with her affinity for light, nature, and life. His rough hand moved to the side of her face and cupped her cheek as he leaned closer to briefly touch his forehead to her own. His hums followed the same rhythm as her previous "good morning".

He withdrew and began to slowly sit up, his other arm around her back and trying to slowly coax her to follow his motion. He couldn’t very well say it, but they needed to start waking up and get moving.

**PhoenixAshes**

Even while still becoming fully awake Vivica knew that look. She'd gotten it more than once from her grandmother, and Ciya had no control over her giggles when they first met, so the witch knew exactly what was going on. "Yeah. I know." She simply replied, raking her hand through, which helped--well, sort of helped-- smooth the top of the thick mess.

Ciya sighed happily at his touch and their kiss equivalent affection, her eyes closing peacefully at both. It was still too soon for her to completely process his hummed morning greeting, but, almost absentmindedly, she followed his lead to get up. For her it was more in attempt to stay close than anything else.

**FrankenSoul**

He had been caught so fast! Still smiling broadly behind his hand, Slick slowly moved it down and chuckled as he observed her calm reaction. Why hadn't he seen such a mess on her head before? Maybe he just hadn't been paying attention... "Oh, come now!" He insisted, a hand placed upon his hip and a shine in his eyes. "It looks... unique! And how can I judge, now that I'm saddled with my own mess of locks? Though I must say, your own seems to be rebelling against you with a purpose."

There she went, up, up... Still half asleep. How adorable she was with her sleepy behavior, unfiltered emotions easy to pick out from her. He noticed Slick and Vivica interacting at the edge of his vision but thought little of it. They were all up now and could begin the final leg of their journey. That is, as soon as he could have Ciya release him and tear himself away from her likewise. His fingers gently rubbed upon her back, trying to coax her to awaken further and patiently waiting for her to become more aware.

**PhoenixAshes**

"Yes, but uniquely horrible." She shifted, reaching into her bag and finding a brush there. The sooner she tamed it, as best as she could, the better. "It does on occasion. I've been lucky this whole time, surprisingly." The witch said, flinching on a few tangles. Slick was right on another front, his hair was quite disheveled as well. "Yours is short though. All you have to do is dip your head into the stream and smooth it down." Vivica had no such luck, in fact moisture was her enemy. Unless it was involved with washing, wetness or humidity would friz her locks in an instant.

Franky's rubbing of the pixie's back did nothing but sooth her further, if she really was intent on it she could have gone right back to sleep. However, a waking state was slowly coming more into focus. "Alright." She sighed softly, holding close to Franky for a moment longer. "I'm awake." The statement was partially motivational. Awake she may be, but willing to let go she was not.

9  ↤ ❖ ↦  11