A Wrong Turn

[Ensui]

Putrid, foul, and unsuitable for any form of life. A poison in the form of a place. A land forgotten by decency and grace.

This is how Ensui thought of this forgotten location. He had never been really good with directions, but shock had been unavoidable when he unexpectedly took step into a rancid swamp instead of the beauty of his home. Beauty, he thought, that could only belong to a territory created by his goddess, Heiseph. Even though he had come across other beautiful areas in his travels, with water pure and life lush, he considered his home a heaven on earth.

Ensui scrunched his delicate nose as he walked with caution in his step, trying his best to avoid the polluted water of the swamp. If the water territory was heaven, then this place was surely hell. It amazed him to see water in such diseased condition; not suitable for even the foulest of creatures. But, of course, he was wrong. Nasty creatures did lurk in the water, waiting for the first wrong step of an unfortunate soul. Water that was impossible to see past the surface of. He imagined this was a place were things came to die, things that could find no comfort among respectable folk. It was just that bad.

As he walked he looked down and grimaced at the filth that had clung to his boots and the hem of his cape. Such filth was unavoidable in a place were the ground was not solid, but still, he continued with no attempt to cleanse himself of said filth. He would wash it off once he managed to get out of here... if that were possible.

He trodded into a clearing between a few rotted trees and allowed himself the necessity of further taking in his surroundings. His golden eyes narrowed as he was bummed to learn that every place looked alike. A maze, he was caught in a maze and he could not figure it out. He leaned against a tree and a let himself slip to the ground with a thud before leaning his head back and closing his eyes in discouragement.

"Oh lovely. Now what will you do smart one?"

He was lost.

[frozentears]

Becoming bored of her current surroundings, the young girl decided to teleport to another area. She ended up in a swampy area, filled with stagnant waters and creatures unknown to her. Luckily she had ended up on a rotting tree and not in the murky water itself. "Thank Borran that I did not land in there," the partial tiger demon concluded as she made sure she had brought all her items with her. Keiko looked around at her surroundings. "Just great! First I end up in a river, then in the middle of a forest, and now here, a swamp filled with disease carrying insects and carnivores. I don't understand what I did to deserve this. First my father is taken away by this war, then my mother by a vicious creature, and then my sister is kidnapped by travelers," she shouted into the muggy air. She went to step out more on the decomposing log when SNAP! The log had snapped, sending Keiko and all her belongings into the waist-deep green water. "Please tell what I did to have a life like this. Damn this place," she shouted as she picked up her BO and stood up. Her once plum colored robe was covered in the water. "Just wonderful!"

She trotted through the foul water until she spotted a piece of land big enough to sit down on. Once she approached the land, an alligator had spotted his next meal sitting down. Keiko noticed the reptile coming towards her. She stood up and pulled out an heirloom of her mother, her katana. She approached the reptile and swung the sword. As she swooped the sword back towards her, the sun glistening on the metal, showing the blood dripping of its tip. "Creatures of all types should learn to stay away from me when I'm displeased with life," the annoyed female said with a hint of irritation in her voice as she stared at her victim. She had become stronger from determination to find her sister. She sat back down on the soggy ground, and took of her drenched robe. "I suppose I am not wearing this anymore until I clean it. She pulled the beige ribbon on of the loops of the robe and tied it below of chest to hold her katana. She whipped the blood on the ground and put the sword back. Keiko took her small supply of dried fruit and water out. "This is all I have let until I return to a town so I must use it wisely." She nibbled on a piece of fruit and took a few sips out of her almost empty container.

The young woman stood up off the ground, looped her soiled robe through her beige ribbon belt and picked up her staff. As she was about to teleport off to another location, she heard a sound from somewhere around her. The sound of another person. Another life. Being her nosy self, she decided to go and see what they happened to be up to. She jumped from rotted log to rotted log until the source of the noise was in sight. Keiko saw a younger looking male, his skin paler than hers, his hair matched his golden eyes. It looked as though, he was thoroughly disgusted in his whereabouts. Keiko watched him intently to see if she should approach him. She heard him speak as he said:
"Oh lovely. Now what will you do smart one?" She was right. He was indeed lost. Should she approach him and ask if he wants help? Should she just quietly leave, never letting him know that she was there? SNAP! The log she was on, once again, broke. 'It's too late to leave now. Graceful me fell into this damned water again. I suppose I should say something now,' Keiko thought to herself.

The young girl stood up out of the water and jumped onto a nearby log, closer to the pale man. A slight blush came across her skin. With hesitation in her voice Keiko spoke, "I just happened to overhear that you are lost, so i was wondering if you would allow me to help you out of here?" Keiko stood there, looking down at her feet, feeling rather stupid at her clumsy entrance. ' What a first impression of me. I'm now completely covered in muck from the damn water, I'm a total mess, and I am blushing. what a combination.' Keiko felt like just leaving at the moment, but something told her to stay and wait things out.

[Ensui]

Sitting with his eyes still blocking out the world around him, he picked over possible solutions to his predicament. The vile scents of the disgusting swamp breaking his concentration every now and again; he had to get out of there. This was his main objective and he had to follow it through. Despite how long it may take him he would do it, he refused to relinquish his body to a place like this. Delicate ears hearing a brash disturbance not too far away, maybe he wouldn't have to remain here too much longer after all.

Ensui kept his head rested as he only half opened his eyes with uninterest at the life form that appeared on a nearby log. If they were here to harm him, they obviously lacked the skill to do so sneakily, which made him consider this new presence to lack threat. What appeared before him though brought new emotion to his actions as he took in it's sad appearance. Placing his hand to his mouth his eyes closed once more as an amused laugh escaped his parted lips at the slime covered girl that had appeared before him. He took pleasure in the thought that she two was not enjoying her little visit to the swamp. Now what was it that she had said before he had gleefully broke out in laughter? He fell silent, but a grin remained as he wasn't fully able to diminish the comical image from his mind.

She had offered him a way out of this hell. Thinking back, maybe laughing at her wasn't the kindest thing he could have done, but unsure about how she felt about it, he did not mean for it to come off as if he were making fun of her. Although, he kinda was. But why would she offer to help him? Surely she wanted something in return. Few did things out of the kindness of their heart these days, and always seeked some sort of payment. What was it that this one wanted? What was she after?

Still smiling he placed pressure to his right hand as he stood. He didn't want to appear disrespectful or rude, the lady had just offered him a way out after all. His cape fell loosely around his body, hiding his physical appearance under a sheet of cloth. He watched were he stepped as he made his way over to the girl, stopping inches from her. Leaning in far enough to feel her warm breath against his face as he was sure to make eye contact, he wanted to get in nice and personal to ask his question. His look still gleeful he broke his grin momentarily as he released his words.

"And what is it that you request in return?"

[frozentears]

What did she want?! What did she want?! All Keiko wanted as to be out of that damned swamp and clean. No more muck or filth. Just to be clean! “All I want at the current moment is to get out of here and out of these disgusting clothes. I will gladly help you, but if you don’t want my help, well I’ll just leave you in this disease infested place,” Keiko exclaimed. She looked into the man’s eyes, but quickly looked away from him. Why was he so close to her even though they had just met? She just wanted to help the man get out of that wretched swamp. No matter how much she hated anyone, she would never send them to a place such as this.

Keiko considered his question. She really didn’t want anything, but since he asked what could she ask for. Company? No too long of a commitment. Help in finding her sister? But she didn’t even know where to start her search. She didn’t know what she wanted. “Why do you insist that I want something? I just wanted to be nice. I know how cruel this world can be. I just found someone in need and thought I could help them out a bit while I, myself, leave this place.” Keiko looked down at her slime covered feet and then at her pants. Who would want help from a dirty person like her? Who would even go near her? She couldn’t blame the man for asking, especially in all the dangers of the world now. She didn’t care who won the war; she lost her father because of it after all.

Tears came to her turquoise eyes when she thought about, but held them back, trying not to look weak in front of the man. She already made a fool of herself by falling off that log and every place of her was covered in grime. He probably thinks that I’m some weak girl who can’t do anything herself. Well I’m not; I can take care of myself. Keiko put her confident face on. “I’m sorry for my outburst a few minutes ago. I get mad quite easily. Go ahead and laugh at me. It doesn’t bother me any. I have no destination, so I’ll gladly help in where ever you wish to go,” she finished. She closed her eyes and nodded her head. Keiko couldn’t help but wonder what the young man of golden eyes thought of her, the filthy, mood swinging girl who just wanted to help someone out.

She had just shown 3 of her emotions within the last moments of her life and they all came within seconds. First her usual stupidity, then her anger, and finally her sadness of her old memories. It was not time to show him her everyday emotion: confidence and I’m-too-good-for you attitude. Keiko raised her head and looked him straight in the eyes. “But don't get me wrong, I’m not as you think, but I am not a threat. Do not worry. I have my own agenda to attend to, but your company would be pleasurable,” Keiko said with a smirk on her face.

[Ensui]

"Ah! A good samaritan."

She was right, he didn't believe her, not that she would ever know. He was still smiling as he took a step back. He would give her her space. Girls like her scared him. He couldn't understand how someone could have so many emotions. Hell, he couldn't understand female beings period. They were complicated creatures. This one was funny, though. It wasn't just her current appearance, but her character. She was shy, but she was confident. She could care less if she left him here, but his company would be pleasurable. She would be angry, but moments later she would cry. She would be apologetic, yet still show her pride. Maybe he would be better off if she did leave him here. Going with her kinda felt like a risk. He wouldn't be surprised if he said something to offend her and she chose to leave him without a second look. How cruel, he thought as his blissful grin remained at the idea.

He had to get out of here, though. The girl spoke words of gold when she called it a disease infested place. It was repulsive. The girl was his ticket out. He wasn't going to pass that up. As for keeping her company afterward, it would be more in his character to part ways the moment he set foot on more pleasant land, but the little butterball of emotions intrigued him. She had her own agenda, huh? He could care less, but it may prove to be an interesting journey. Things had been dull the past few months. That had been the reason he was returning to his home territory in the first place. His smile faded as he became serious once more.

"Let's get out of here, kit."

A name referring to her cat like features as he gave a small tug to her multi-colored hair. A title, he thought, fit her quite well since she had chosen not to tell him her name. Looking at her expectantly, he was interested in how she was going to get them out of there.

[frozentears]

Kit. Keiko thought that was much more appropriate than actually telling this man her name. It didn't bother her any, and the tug of her hair, just made her want to smack him, yet somehow it kinda made her nervous. What was the meaning of it? Was he going to just use her and leave her like that? or was it a let's be friends tug? She shrugged it off. At first his appearance, she though he was just going to ignore her, but her instant was once again wrong as usual.

" If we ever get to know each other better, such as our names, I will show you my true personality, not a web of emotions. It was just that I accidentally teleported into this disgusting place. You never told me where you wanted to go, so I assume just out of this wretched place is fine," Keiko said with all of her integrity. "Oh, I almost forgot, since you call me Kit, I am going to give you a name. Let me think. I shall call you Crescent. You're so pale that you're like the moon in a clear night. You probably glow in the dark," she laughed. She tugged on his hair for his little tug on hers while she said," This is for your little hair pulling action. Don't EVER pull my hair. Touch me anywhere else just not my hair. I suppose I'll let you out of it this time, but that's only because I'm covered in filth."
She stepped back one more step, just so there was a space between them. Keiko felt a pinch in her back. Was it really that time of the week already. It would explain her sudden mood swings because she always went through them before her silky wings would show them. It was the only thing she had inherited from her father, his wings. She quickly turned around so that the young man wouldn't see her take off her blouse so that her wings would be free. She slipped her shirt off her head just as her majestic wings came into place. She slipped her shirt on again, situating it around her her wings. She ruffled them and spread them out to let them stretch.

What would he think of her now? She had sprouted wings. Keiko was afraid to turn around to face him. She slowly turned around. "Would you prefer to teleport or fly. I might add that I am better at predicting my landing through flying than teleporting; teleporting is kinda how I ended up here," she hesitated. "I only have my wings for 24 hours though if you want to fly. I should let know, the first clear, clean source of water we pass over, we're stopping so I can clean up my self." Keiko looked into his eyes once more, giving him the look of confidence.

She thought to herself for a minute. 'He probably thinks I'll drop him or fly into something, thanks to my graceful entrance. I care none of what happens to him though, as it seems he thinks the same for me. Either way he screwed: he's stuck here or with me.' She snickered at her thoughts feeling kind of sorry for him. She didn't let him see or know what she did or felt. "What's is it going to be?"

[Ensui]

Her true personality? He muttered as he turned away from the girl who was now shedding her clothes. He should run was the humorous thought that went through his mind as he gave a reassuring rub to the area of her tug. And his new name, Crescent. Letting the feel of it run over his tongue, he liked this new label very much. Maybe he would never tell Kit his real name he pondered with a slight smile. Although still sporting a playful nature, he was truthfully a little uncomfortable. Was it some sort of spiritual thing that she had to undress in order to find her way out? Or was there another reason behind Kit's strange behavior? His decision was final, the noxious fumes of the swamp had made the girl loose her mind. Crossing his arms he nodded to himself, that had to be it. He would have to find his own way out now. He was back to square one. He should say his goodbyes before she started some sort of tribal dancing or something.

Arms still crossed he shifted his weight to turn just as she did, meeting her gaze. It didn't last long though as he sighted something new about the girl. His eyes widened as he placed his hands in front of his partially dropped jaw. Oh dear god, the polluted water had made her sprout appendages. He was doomed. Doomed to a life of eternal confusion lost in a maze, growing weird things here and there from every water contaminated place on his body. This sucked. And what was she piping off about teleporting and flying? He only caught parts of it in his bewilderment. Had she mastered her new given curses already? This water was some seriously bad stuff. Letting his shocked eyes meet with hers, she still had a look of confidence. Maybe she was still capable of getting them out of there. Taking in her last statement, it sounded like it was up to him to choose their mode of transportation. Very unfortunate.

She had given him the option of flight or teleport. Neither were really appealing to him. Why couldn't they just walk? Flying would mean he would have to come into contact with her contaminated self, while teleporting gave him the impression that some part of him would be left behind. He twitched at the thought. So what would it be? Teleport and loose something, or fly and grow something else. His appearance relaxed. He really was doomed, but staying here was not an option. The girl had him caught. Clearing his throat of any obstacle that would make him sound unsure of his decision, he was ready to pick his poison.

"Why don't we fly."

[frozentears]

"You're probably thinking that I'm some type of mutate or something, but I actually have wings for 24 hours once a week. My father was fallen angel, so I have these wings from him. I didn't want to ruin my shirt, considering its the only one I have. I am sorry for shedding of my clothes too," Keiko told him.

Keiko put her disgusting robe back on, which made it easier to fly. She arranged her weapons and BO so that they were secure enough not to fall while in mid-flight by tightening them with her waist ribbon. She ruffled her wings and walked behind Crescent. She was kind of nervous about the fact that she had a passenger during her flight. 'I feel sorry for him that he has to touch me while I fly him to our unknown destination. I assume its better than being here.' She was thinking about how to carry him. Should I carry him on my back? Or should i just hold him arms? What keiko really wanted to know was why she had such an urge to help him. What was so special about this one? he didn't seem special and didn't say much. He seemed kind of dark. Let him think what he wants.

Keiko latched her arms unto his, and she slowly made her way up into the air. The air was hot and sticky, weather that would make her keep taking breaks. She reached the height she desired, above all of the water and rotting logs. I wonder what he's thinking. "I hope I'm not hurting you by carrying you this way, but I figured you wouldn't want to touch my gross clothing and cover yourself in this. Just tell me if you don't like this height," Keiko told. She flew for about an hour before her wings gave her a tinge of pain from carrying the extra weight.

She kept going until she spotted a clear and clean river. It even had fish in it. It was a good area to stop. "Okay, this will be our first stop. We can eat the fish and I can clean myself up and wash my clothing. That way, I won't smell like that wretched place. this seems to be the only clean source of water around us. It's like the center of the swamp. Down we go," Keiko told him.

[Ensui]

What a convenient gene. So it wasn't the water that had made her grow wings. He gave a sigh of relief, now a little more comfortable in what was a once sudden and unexpected grasp. Still, it was creepy how they just popped out of her back like that. She was bound to scare people off. It must have been strange living with the genes of two different races running through her blood. Something he was fortunate enough not to experience. He was a being of pure water. His parents both of the same race. But if her father was a fallen angel, what was her mother? Some sort of cat beast he had thought Kit was at an earlier time, but he couldn't be sure now. Not that it mattered. He could care less if he was in the company of some cat/ fallen angel/ intoxicated possum girl. As long as she didn't pull anything too weird, he was fine with her company.

Dangling in the air with only her grasp keeping him from the clutches of death, maybe it was best he was fine with what she was. He wasn't exactly in the position to feel resentment toward the blood that ran through her veins. Unless he had a death wish. His eyes scanned the area for a place he would feel comfortable being dropped, a place he might be able to save himself in case Kit had another one of her emotional fits. He was bummed to realize that if he were to fall it would be hopeless to try and save himself. He would be destroyed, but why was the ground coming closer? Was it his fear of falling that made it seem like the earth was closing in? No. It wasn't just his imagination. They really were going down. He tensed with the thought of his body colliding with the harshness of the earth. He found relief in the thought of his aching shoulders finally finding some relief, but that was just it, he wouldn't make it. He wouldn't have to feel his shoulders because of the simple fact he'd be dead. These thoughts were brief, broken by Kit's announcement that she was landing. Although his body relaxed a little, the soft dirt beneath his feet would be the only thing that brought him comfort now.

[frozentears]

Keiko gently landed onto the ground, leaving Crescent go to do as he wishes. "I hope your flight wasn't too uncomfortable. You seemed kind of tense though. I wasn't going to drop you. I'm not like that," Keiko laughed. "Anyway, I am going over to bathe myself and wash my clothing, considering this is the only clean water I saw nearby. I don't care what you plan on doing during our short stay here, but no spying," Keiko told Crescent with a serious tone in her voice. She wandered away from Crescent and towards the water source.

Turning around to make sure he wasn't in sight, she shed her clothing and slipped into the crystal water. She placed her weapons on a nearby rock along with her BO, so it was still in arms reach in case of it being needed. She pulled her clothing into the water and began scrubbing it on a rock in order to make sure it was completely free of muck, slime, or grime. She then laid it over the same rock as her accessories. Keiko then leaned against the rock and closed her eyes. 'The water is so nice. I feel so much better.' She allowed the sun to warm her face. Her hair flowed with the water's slow current. She swirled it around in the water, and then moved her attention to her scar above her breast. She traced it with her finger. "Sister, I will find you. I am sure you're still alive and that you are looking for me," Keiko told herself in confidence.

She heard something rustle in a nearby bush. "He better not be spying." She grabbed her robe and katana. "Don't come any closer," she yelled. It came closer, and suddenly a squirrel came out. "You are so paranoid, Keiko. It was just a squirrel. He wouldn't want to see me anyway. He doesn't seem like that type of person," she whispered to herself, letting out a sigh of relief. She nestled back down against her rock. She sat there for about a half an hour, allowing her self a quick nap.

She woke up, realizing she had dozed off and that her clothing was now dry and clean. She stood up, fluffed her wings so that all the water dripped off them. She pulled her clothing back on, attaching her weapons and bag to her, slipped her shoes on. She filled her canteen with the water, gathered some nearby berries to munch on later. she took one last look at the water. She turned around and began to walk back up to Crescent. She felt better and much more confident now that she was clean and presentable. 'I wonder what he'll think of me now?' Keiko let out a small laugh and continued her walk back to Crescent.

[Ensui]

"No spying."

A humored smile graced his lips. Like he wanted to see her. Or anyone for that matter. He had had no interest in the sins of the flesh for as long as he could remember. And in the off chance he had developed a sudden urge to view naked skin, he wouldn't go so low as to spy on someone. Although he lacked the qualities of a proper gentleman, he still considered himself to be a decent person who had total control over his hormones. Parting ways for the time being, he gave his arms a much needed stretch before settling himself against the base of a tree. Kit had been completely covered in grime, so naturally it would take her a while to clean herself up.

Ready for a long wait he relaxed his eyelids as his thoughts wandered. How long would it be before they were out of there? What would he decide to do once free of this vile place? For the moment he had no plans. Shifting his weight to a more comfortable position, Kit had mentioned she had had her own agenda to attend to and wouldn't mind him accompanying her as she went. Would he take up that offer? She had been kind enough to help him out of his predicament, though they weren't completely free of the place's clutches yet. And it didn't mean he had to stick with her forever. Kit wouldn't have the hold on him like she did now. Once out of here, the option of leaving her company was always available. It would be curiosity and a yearning for something new that would keep him by her side. He had always traveled alone, but maybe the thrill of having a companion would be just the thing to keep him from taking off. Maybe...

~~~

Ensui's eyes shot open. Someone was laughing. Sleep's gentle confusion clung as he took in his surroundings. Kit was returning, noticeably more vibrant then when she had left. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he stood up once more before facing his new companion. He was pleased with her new appearance. The look of her now clean clothes against her pale skin was very flattering. More so than grime, anyway. The sheen of her clean hair was also very impressive. He stood with a silent grin, hidden by the neck of his cloak. He imagined he should say something to comment her new image, but decided against it when only offensive things came to mind. He failed when it came to saying the right thing to a woman. He'd rather not risk it this time.

[frozentears]

She approached to see him stand up rather quickly. “Did I scare you?” she laughed. “So, is this better?” she asked as she spun around once, showing him that she was indeed muck free. Her silky hair was now flowing with then gentle breeze. It was about mid-day and the most humid time. The sun was hot and it would be hard to fly in weather such as this. Keiko was much happier now that her clothing, skin, and hair were as they should be and she was up from her little doze in the water. She wondered if the two should stay here for a bit and maybe snack on some fish or berries, or if they should immediately take off again. This area wasn’t bad at all compare to what surrounded them. It didn’t have grimy water or rotted trees. It was like a source of water in the middle of a desert. She walked over to a tree, where she leaned her back against it. Spotting a bush with some type of berries on it, she decided to pick them, for they were not poisonous. She cupped a handful and popped each berry in her mouth one at a time.

After finishing, she asked her acquaintance, “Why are you so quiet? You don’t seem to like me much. I can tell that you’re not too happy because happy people talk more. Why aren’t you happy? I mean, I’m happy and the last of my family was kidnapped. Oh sorry, I shouldn’t have asked you such a personal question considering we just met and don’t even know each other’s real names. Sorry, sometimes I ramble. I’ll shut up now.” She turned around and slapped herself on the forehead. “Keiko, how could you be so stupid. You have to think before you speak. I’m such a ditz,” she whispered to herself.

She went to turn around to face the person that she had just made a fool of herself to when she tripped over air and down she went. At least this time, it wasn’t in filthy water, but on sound land. She quickly stood back up and brushed the dirt off of her clothing. “I am much more graceful when it comes to flying as you probably noticed,” Keiko stated while rubbing her throbbing knee which was now bleeding. She sat down and patched it up. She took one last look at this place and asked, “Ready to get going again?” She ruffled her wings. If they wanted to escape this place by just flying, they would have to pick up their pace, time with her wings was running out. She walked closer to him, still keeping a good foot or two, and looked him in the eyes. “Why do you hide your face with your collar. I mean I have this scar, but don’t hide it,” she asked tracing her scar on her cheek with her finger. “Anyways, I am ready as soon as you are.”

[Ensui]

The last of her family was kidnapped? He found that hard to believe. If whatever part of her family that was kidnapped was anything like her, the captor or captors would surely toss them aside shortly after they obtained them. A tickled grin appeared at this thought, somewhat sorry for whoever obtained Kit's loved one. If Kit loved them at all. She seemed rather peachy with the event of the kidnapping in the way she relayed the info to him. If not, then she was really good at hiding her emotions. Maybe there was more to Kit than he had failed to understand.

Why didn't he talk? Why did she talk so much? Was silence such a sin? If he had anything to say, he would say it. Even then he found words to be an annoyance. He never managed to put true feeling into speech. It was something that escaped him. Besides, words were a way of sharing ideas or thoughts, and his thoughts were a precious thing. They were his place of privacy, his seclusion from others. They belonged to him and only him. He wanted it to stay that way. Almost always, when he did speak, his words were unkind. Did Kit really want to hear it? It didn't matter. A deep sigh of surrender left him. If she wanted him to talk more, he would try. Maybe then they would get a better understanding of each other.

Ensui winced watching Kit fall. Scratching his head, she wasn't the most skilled when it came to smooth movement. She was right, flying was her better zone. Which was surprising considering she had walked more in her life then flew, from what she told him, anyways. Which brought to mind, which nation was she from? To what supreme being did her loyalties lie? She might have been able to tell where he came from, he wasn't sure, but what element was she in cahoots with? Not that it mattered. They got along pretty well without such information, he thought.

The girl talking again before he could get anything out, he was surprised by her mentioning him hiding his face. He had done nothing but stand unmovingly by the tree in thought the whole time she had dallied around. There was no point to movement if he had nothing to do, but his statue like posture was broken by her statement. There was nothing kind behind his cloak, he proved with a swift gesture as he pulled down the rim of the cloth and stuck his tongue out at her. The sun was warm against the momentarily bare skin. A nice feeling. Giving Kit's vibrant strands another playful tug, he smiled.

"I'm ready."

He'd try. He really would try to be kinder to her.

[frozentears]

What was with him and pulling her hair?! His odd action was kind of relaxing. It made her realize that he wasn't as serious as he once made her think. He looked so much with his collar down, but she didn't want him to know that. "See, you have nothing to hide with the collar and you could use some sun," Keiko laughed. "It seems as if you could use some humor in your life. Those actions of yours make you much better to be around because when your all quiet and don't say anything, it kinda creeps me out a little. No offense though. I understand if you enjoy being like that though."

Keiko gave her arms and wings one last stretch. Her wings gave a twitch of excitement for their future adventure. She walked up behind Crescent and latched her arms his just as before. She gave a slight kick off the ground and off they went. She gripped his arms just so she knew he wouldn't fall, yet light enough the her arms would not yet tired too e quickly. She watched as the ground became farther and farther away from the security of the ground.

She wondered what was running through Crescent's head while he was just dangling in the air with only her between whether he would make it to solid ground or fall into the swamps. She shook her head, trying not to think about negatives like that. Why did a thought like that even come across her. She would never do that. The sun was hot and the sticky air didn't help to the situation. She had forgotten to take her robe off before taking flight. If I wouldn't carry so many weapons and my BO, I wouldn't have so much weight on me, Keiko thought to herself. Should she try to strike up conversation. I'll wait until he says something. Maybe he doesn't like my talking. I'll just keep my attention on wear I'm flying.

The sun was starting to get hidden by constant clouds. It looked as though a storm was approaching. She did not like storms. The thunder hurt her ears and lightning made her skin crawl. A shiver ran down her spine just at the thought. She realized he grip had tightened at the thought, so she loosened it. She looked down at him. Keiko realized she should apologize for her grip. "I'm sorry for my tight grip a minute ago. It looks though a storm is approaching and I do not like storms at all." She turned her attention back to the sky and what was ahead of her. What was he doing in that swamp to begin with? I wonder what is agenda is. Does he have a family? Why am I thinking about him so much. I should be thinking about how to find my sister and where I'm flying not about some man whom I just met and think needs some fun in his life and needs to loosen up a bit. She gave her head another shake just before hearing a frightful noise from afar, the sound of thunder.

[Ensui]

Ensui's body had tensed in reaction to lift off. Memories of how he felt before they had made landing still lingered uncomfortably in the back of his mind. He knew Kit was doing her best to keep them from fatality, atleast he hoped, but unease remained. He had come to the conclusion he did not favor flying. Right now, it was the best means of travel and he would not complain, but if the opportunity ever revealed itself he would do his best to find another mode of transport. For the time being, he'd have to grit his teeth and bear it. A thought that came moments before disaster it seemed.

Kit's grip was tightening; a gesture that brought no comfort. Either she felt she was going to drop him, or something brought her unease. Either way, both Kit and himself were distressed now. Normally, he would have tried to wiggle free of such a grasp, but the option had become obsolete in his current situation. Taking in a deep breath, he held it a moment before exhaling as an attempt to calm himself and relax the muscles in his body. He would do his best to remain still for her as he was left to wonder what the problem was.

"I'm sorry for my tight grip a minute ago. It looks though a storm is approaching and I do not like storms at all."

Ah. That explained it. He failed to find comfort in her now loosened hands. Kit was uneasy, a feeling he could understand. Flying in a storm wasn't exactly his idea of a tea party, but he wasn't the one responsible for both of their well being. He felt for Kit. Would she be able to handle all of this? She was already nervous. Maybe it would have been best if they had landed, an idea that held two sides. Although Ensui would have loved to be on the ground walking, Kit would eventually loose her wings. What if they weren't able to find their way out? The idea of spending another week in this swamp made him shutter, and just the word 'teleport' made him noxious. Brutal honesty. In the end, it was up to Kit. However, he'd try to have some influence.

"Why do you carry so many weapons? It must make it hard to move."

Maybe conversation would keep her mind off the storm and prolong her flight. It was worth a try.

[frozentears]

Wow, the silent one actually spoke of something unnecessary. Kind of happy that this might be because he has decided to open up a bit to her Keiko answered him.

" I carry all of these weapons so that if anyone ever attacks me, I know I can win. I once promised myself that I would see my sister again." They had been flying for about an hour and a half. The storm was approaching quickly let alone they were moving into it. Her wings were beginning to ache, but Keiko knew that they had to keep going, even in the pouring rain. the only way she would stop her flight would be because of lightning. She would normally stop but seeing that she would loose her wings within the next 20 hours and she had a passenger, she had to keep going. Winds grew stronger as they reached the darkness and fury of the storm. Her entire body tensed. She picked up speed. A low rumble of thunder made her flinch.

Thunder. The sound that made her skin crawl. Rain always followed it. Then, the brightness of lightning would copme into play. Keiko looked around at her surroundings. There was nothing in sight to take shelter in, that she could see anyway. It was nothing but swamp, swamp and rotting deteriorating trees and logs. Why did it have to storm? Couldn;t just rain? Maybe talking to Crescent would calm her a bit. She got herself to ask him a question.

"Is there anything else you wish to ask me? Should I know anything about you?"

She glanced down at the man she was holding onto. Keiko wondered about why he was in that swamp to bgin with. Her attention was quickly chnaged once a single rain drop landed on her cheek. Fear came into play. A distant lightning bolt was able to been seen in the distance. Keiko kept going into the darkness, hoping for a small shelter to take refuge in just until the storm passed. She took a deep breath and went ahead. Maybe this was the time ot overcome this silly fear. This was it. There was no turning back. Thunder grew louder, winds stronger. It was here and they were in the middle of what would become a storm of wrath.

Attempting to find the light at the end of the storm, she pushed herself to move faster. It seemed to go on forever. Every roll of thunder or flash of lightning made her shiver. Keiko couldn't believe how fast the strom had approached them. The more she thought about it, she should just have landed somewhere, but then again that wouldn't have helped them reach there destination, whereever that happened to be. One last roll of thunder was heard until the clouds released their what they had been holding back. A sudden downpour began within only moments of the storm being in sight. Now drenched in water and getting wetter by the second, she pushed ahead.

"Cresent, please talk to me. I need to get through this, but I need your help."

He was the only thing that kept her from landing. She couldn't help her sister, so maybe helping him would make her feel better.

[Ensui]

Past questions forgotten, had he been selfish in trying to push her further than what she was comfortable with? Or had she remained in the sky due to personal feelings? He hadn't a clue. He wanted to get out, but not at Kit's expense. Whether a fear for his well being, or a newfound fondness for Kit made him think this way, he couldn't say for sure. She had asked for his help, giving him a mental shock. No one had ever asked for his help before. Especially to such a degree. Either out of pride or a feeling of pure hate, no one had ever looked to him for assistance. Kit's plea tugged on his heart strings. He felt guilt toward her endurance of the storm. If she was really so uncomfortable with their current situation, why didn't she land? Had she remained in the skies for him? A selfish thought. He smiled to himself for letting such stupidity wander into his mind. Maybe she was trying to prove something by pushing herself to the limits? Was she punishing herself for some past mistake by allowing herself to remain in such weather? Or was it something he had absolutely no familiarity with. This was chaos.

"Land, Kit."

The well kept fabric of his clothes now dripped with saturation. The wind adding to the effect of misery as he shivered. Needless to say, he wasn't happy. The storm had been worse than he had believed it could be. This place really was hell. A cold, wet, disgusting version of it, anyways. Remaining in the sky was now unsafe. He'd gladly take his chances under a rotted tree. Besides, Kit might get sick. This storm wasn't exactly the friendliest thing to ones health or body. Continuation of their flight would be suicide. If they weren't struck by lightning, they'd surely die of illness. Another week of searching for an exit out of the swamp didn't seem so bad anymore.

[frozentears]

Land. At the moment that word seemed heavenly. Now having Crsecent approval to land, Keiko searched for a place to land safely. The rain blurred her vision since it was coming down so fast. Desperate for even a small rotted out tree, she kept forward. Beginning to descend, the swamps came closer into view. One large tree came into sight. It seemed as if it could bring some sort of shelter to the pair.

"I thank you for allowing me to land. I wanted your approval to do so. I want to get out of here just as much as you do, belive me. I shall land in that lone tree."

Keiko came closer and closer to her destination. The rain and wind were stronger than before, yet she felt as if the owrst was yet to come. Finally approaching the tree, she carefully landed on a thick branch able to hold both of them. Knowing that Crescent was secure, Keiko laid back against the main branch of the tree. It was giving them some shelter from the storm. The rain was cold, giving her chills. The wind didn't help any either. Curling up against the tree, she attempted to fall asleep.

Every time a crash of thunder was heard and a bolt of lightning was seen, she let out a small squeak. This probably makes me seem like a whimp, cowering during the storm. She was glad that she had stopped flying. She looked at her drenched ensemble. It had been through so much in that one day, going from slime covered to nice and clean to what was now a rain soaked robe.

She removed her weapons and shoes to make it easier to curl herself up, hopefully keeping her a little more warm than what she was now. Night was also coming up soon after, so they weren't going anywhere for the night, so she figures she should attempt to get her self comfortable and try to make the best out of a horrible situation.

She looked up out of her lap, attempting to see how Crescent was reacting to the storm, but the swaying of the branches in front of her caused her to go back and hide her face in her lap. Picking up her head, she decided to take her mind off the strom by striking up a conversation.

"Crescent, what do you think of storms?"

Her reply was followed by an unexpected sneeze. Was she getting sick? That couldn't be possible. She had to get them out of there after that storm. She curled up once more, trying to keep herself from thinking of the storm and how cold she was. Her ears were almost numb as well as her fingers and toes. She finally had to say something to Crescent.

"Crescent, I so cold."

She didn't mean to say that, but her body acted on instinct. She should know to think before she spoke. She looked up at the sky, dark as ever. She ruffled her wings as the cold water droplets would be shook off. Another small sneeze escaped from her. It was official, she had caught a cold from being in this type of dreadful weather.

[Ensui]

Her words made him twitch. His approval? Why should it matter what he thought? He didn't control her. If she really felt she should have landed, she should have landed; His approval or not. Although he didn't want to admit it, he was annoyed. People who seeked approval from others really curdled his dairy. Why couldn't people just live for themselves? Why was it everyone was always trying to make everyone else happy? It made him sick. He had always liked cats because of their 'I'll do what I want despite what you think' nature. He loved how they only lived to please themselves and be pleased by others if they chose. Cats never seeked the approval of others. Hearing Kit make that statement, maybe he was mistaken in thinking there was a percentage of cat blood that ran through her veins. If so, it was probably very diluted by whatever else she was. For the first time since they met, he felt sour toward the girl.

Landing in the tree brought relief. He moved hastily from the girl to a spot he felt comfortable with before settling down. Leaning against the core of the tree, he positioned his legs one laying straight out and the other somewhat cocked in a way that would keep him balanced. Ignoring Kit's small whines in reaction to the storm, he himself was comfortable. We would have been swept away by the gentle caress of sleep before too long, if not for Kit's abrupt question. A question followed by a sneeze. He had been right in his earlier assumption of her getting sick. She probably had a cold. Served her right for flying longer than she had wished to.

"I don't mind storms."

He said what was necessary to answer her question. He was in no mood to talk with her right now as he closed his eyes in an attempt to fall asleep once more. Unfortunately, more words were said. She was cold? A tinge of guilt pierced him again, this time with enough force to make him wince. Were her wings only good for flying? Couldn't she wrap them around herself as a way to trap heat or something? His face went blank. Leaving his comfort, he stood and swiftly made his way over to the branch Kit frequented, paying special attention to the damp branches between them that made it possible to slip. Giving her a small pat like punch to the head, he let his fist rest rest amongst her hair. Making eye contact, he released some of his annoyance in words.

"What did you expect?"

He pulled the cloth of his cape loose from his neck before placing it on kit. It was wet, but it was the best he could offer her at that time. Leaving Kit for the comfort of his branch, he settled himself once more; the wind amongst the branches his lullaby into sleep.

[frozentears]

Thankful for his small gesture to keep her a little warmer, Keiko clung to it. Crescent was now back on his branch, sleeping. I suppose I should sleep too, seeing that we should take off early tomorrow. The storm still fierce, she crept as close as she could to the tree. After about a half an hour of struggle, Keiko managed to close her eyes and let out a faint ‘thank you’ towards Crescent.

Her ears were dripping wet as they drooped from the weight of the water. Her hair was no longer the silky, smooth hair that she normally had, but was stringy and rough. Her skin was paler than usual. The cold had made the tint of pink in her cheeks fade. She looked a mess.

Keiko woke up to find that the treacherous storm had passed. The blackness was now due to nightfall. She looked up at the full moon, illuminating the sky. She lifted her head slightly to see where the moon was to determine the time, but a tinge of pain had stopped her. Her head was pounding. How could she fly if she felt ill?! She just wouldn’t tell him, he’d never know. She glanced up at the sky, staring into the now clear, starry sky. It looked as if nothing had ever happened. Keiko resituated herself, leaning against the tree and using the cloak as a blanket. Her deep purple eyes slowly drifted closed, falling back into a deep slumber.

Night soon became morning as the sun rose, brightening the sky. The light shown through the branches, shining on Keiko making her eyes flutter slowly open. The sun made every that was wet glisten. The sun was warm. Keiko wanted to go out of the security of the tree, but didn’t want to disturb the sleeping one. It looked at though it was about an hour after the sun rose, perfect time for flying. Using her strength to lift her soaking wet, sick body off the branch, Keiko grasped onto the trunk and succeeded on getting up. Her head spun around for a second before everything had become somewhat clearer. Her body was heavy. I can’t let him know I am ill. It’s okay if he knows I am a little sick, but not like this.

Her complexion was now almost back to normal, seeing that her warmth had somewhat returned to her. Her ears still drooped, but weren’t wet. Her hair was back to its normal state. Her over all appearance gave her the ‘I’m only a little sick’ look.

She opened her wings and glided down to the ground. It was soggy and flooded. She sat on a high rock and sprawled out on the rock, basking in the warmth of the sun. After about an hour, her clothing was nearly dry, along with Crescent’s cape. She felt a little better. Keiko hoped that he’d awaken soon, only for the fact of getting as far as they could go before her wings disappeared considering that there was only about 8 hours until that happened.

“Damn it, I forgot my weapons in the tree.”

Keiko crawled off the rock, almost falling. Back in the tree, she collected her weapons, reattaching them to their proper places. They weighed her down more now that she was in this predicament. Once back on her feet, balanced, she decided that she should return what was her blanket last night, to its rightful owner. Walking over to the sleeping man, Keiko meant to put the cape next to him, but instead a sneeze came instead. She tried to catch herself, but it was too late. Not wanting to take any further of a chance of awakening him, Keiko stood there, a foot away, with his cape in one hand and her BO in one allowing her to keep her shaky body from falling out of the tree.

[Ensui]

The sneeze that broke the silence was unheard. Ensui still rested serenely on his branch, the sun warming the flesh of his cheeks. He could have stayed that way for hours. He loved to sleep, maybe a little too much. He found comfort in slumber, if only for the reason he didn't have to deal with reality. Although, something was wrong. The hairs on the back of his neck raised. A familiar feeling rushed through him that he had no liking for. Someone had been watching him. His eyes shot open as orbs of tarnished gold tried to focus with the sudden intake of light. His gaze fell upon the form of Kit, trying to maintain balance on the branch; Her lack of respect for personal space bringing him discomfort. His eyes narrowed into a partial glare. He wasn't exactly the kindest of people in the morning.

A deep sigh escaped him as he relinquished his irritation, still a little uncomfortable with his personal space being invaded. His movement was flimsy as he stood, his body not yet in tune with gravity. He placed his right hand against the bark of the tree, rubbing sleep from his eyes before directing his attention toward Kit once more. A look of silent questioning lied in his gaze. What was she up to, anyway? He gave up leaning on the tree and took a step over to Kit, brushing a strand of hair from his face. She'd pay. He gave her ears a soft tug of vengeance and smiled before asking what was on his mind.

"Your plans?"

Kit looked a little rough around the edges, probably from the harsh night, but the day looked to be more forgiving now. Actually, the storm had made the swamp appear more pleasant. It was cleaner now, or as clean as a swamp could be. He gave a silent thank you to Heiseph for the rain; His clothes and body no longer contaminated with vile swamp germs. He watched Kit. What would they do now?

[frozentears]

Keiko rubbed her ears where Crescent had tugged on them. It hurt some, her ears were more sensitive than her hair. Maybe it was payback for waking him from his deep sleep. He looked peaceful and kind in his sleep.

"I didn't mean to wake you. I'm sorry. I just happened to let out a small sneeze and didn't want to risk waking you, so I kinda just stood here to not make anymore noise."

Keiko walked gracefully along the strong branch to the main trunk of the tree, keeping herself steady with her BO. She ruffled her wings, for she would only have them for about 5 hours now. She leaned her body weight against the tree, giving her weak body a rest. She was feeling somewhat better now that the sun returned her skin close to her normal skin tone, returning some of the rosiness to her cheeks. Keiko rested her head against the tree for a slight moment, staring up at the tree's upper branches. Her eyes returned their gaze back to her male traveling companion.

"My plans, at the current moment, would be to take off soon as possible and get as far out of the swamp area before my wings disappear for an week. I have about 5 hours left of flight time. After that, well I you want to travel with me, we can discuss that as soon as we leave this area. If not, well then you don't have to know."

She managed to get a firm grip onto her BO to stand up. She hated being in one position for an extended period of time. She slid down the tree and landed onto the soft, squishy ground. Flopping down on the ground, she released her balance and sat into the ground. She bent her head down to stare at the ground, for her surroundings had begun to swirl, making Keiko dizzy. She closed her eyes for a moment until she had regained proper sight. Lifting her aching head, she called up to Crescent to come down and meet her out in the warm sunshine.

Her forgetfulness accountable, Keiko realized that the cloak was still clutched in her hand. It really did help her last night during the storm. Without it, she could have been much sicker than she was now. She held it close to herself for a moment, for this a been the first moment of kindness she had received in ages. Her keen nose could tell his scent from that of the rain, swamp, and of her. Releasing it, she realized what she was doing, getting attached to someone who was likely to leave as soon as he was on land not surrounded by murky water and disease-carrying bugs. She couldn't stand losing what she hoped was a friend, especially after losing her sister.

She tilted her head, and looked up at the man on the branch. He wanted to know her plans, but what exactly were his? Everyone has at least one goal in life, many have a few like herself. She felt another sneeze coming on, yet she held it in. She couldn't let him know that she was sick. It would set back their goal of getting out of this wretched place. No matter how hard traveling hard be in this state, she would push forward.

"Crescent, what are your plans? You asked me, so now I'm asking you?"

Keiko looked up into his golden eyes. They kind of reminded her of the sun. The had that warm glow to them, but if you got to close, it could kill you. She decided that she would take her chances. After all, you only live once.

[Ensui]

He watched his companion slide from the tree, joining her by her call. He looked to make sure there was no obstacle before deciding his chosen course was safe. Picking a spot behind her on the earth, he jumped from his place of standing through the branches. His landing was soft, a small distance from Kit.

"My plans?"

The sun was pleasant against his skin. Returning Kit's gaze, he drew a blank. He had no plans. He usually just wandered around, taking in the sights. When Kit had come upon him, he was merely lost making his way back home. Home being the water territory since he had no physical house. He guessed his plans would be the same as Kit's. Whether he wanted to travel with her or not, he was still thinking. He enjoyed Kit's company; something that didn't happen often. Although he preferred being alone, the cat had made things interesting the short time they had been together. Future travel with her may prove to be worth while. For now, though, he remained undecided.

"I have no plans."

Looking Kit over, something seemed off. Was she hiding something? Her appearance looked to be normal, but her actions overall worried him. Had she over done it the night before? Had the cold been too much for her? She still held his cloak.

"Why don't we continue on foot?"

Ensui reached for the fabric of his cloak, sliding it gently from her fingers, he hid himself once more. Although flying out of the swamp held more promise of a speedy exit, he didn't want to fly anymore. Kit wasn't well, and he didn't want to risk anything. Her health, his life, their well being. Walking didn't bother him now. Besides, he would have more time to think over what he would decide to do after they had escaped this place. He grabbed Kit's hand, pulling her to a standing position. Would she agree?

[frozentears]

Standing on her feet, she stared into his golden eyes. They were going to walk instead of fly. Those words were music to her ears. Keiko gave his hand a firm grip before letting it go. They were warm, making her cold fingers feel warmth again. A small, warm smile formed on her face. A quiet "sure" escaped from her lips followed by a head nod of agreement.

She walked a few steps out towards the water. The sun's rays shown off the water, giving it a glowing look where they hit. She looked around. After the rain, this place was beautiful. The water was clearer, the leaves on the trees shimmered with the droplets. Moss hung of the trees. This place was truly unharmed by humans. Keiko let out a small sigh. She swung around and looked at her traveling companion, giving him yet again around smile and a hand motion motioning him to come closer to where she was standing.

Keiko realized the more she talked, the more of a chance she had of Crescent realizing she was sick. She didn't want to slow him down, and she wasn't sick enough to stop completely before she was well. If worse came to worse, she'd tell him. A small allowed her hair to sway in the breeze.

She gazed up into the sky.

"Crescent, are we friends or am I just your map out of here?"

Once more, she didn't think before she spoke. Smacking herself lightly on her head, she caused her headache to send a shot of pain down her neck. Her cold was catching up with her again. Her headache was coming back, her body was getting weaker. Her surroundings became foggier. Keiko firmly grabbed hold of her BO and held her head with the other hand. She didn't want this to happen, it couldn't happen. They had to leave here, this place.

Keiko felt as if she was going to collapse, yet she didn't allow herself. After what seemed to her to be 10 minutes, which was actually only about a minute, she shook it somewhat off. She stared ahead, into the what they were going to be walking through within the matter of minutes. It was repulsive, she couldn't even believe that she was going to do it, but considering her state of health, she didn't want to fly and her teleporting was always off to begin with. To say the least, her teleporting was almost always off.

Keiko thought to herself a bit. What if she progressively got worse? Actually collapsed? What if they got lost in the swamp? What if something happened to Crescent? Would he help her? Keiko was one to always think of the bad situations instead of the good ones like finding their way out alive and unharmed.

The sun's rays began to get hotter and brighter, noon must have been approaching. Keiko's eyes began to water. Whether it was from the light, her cold, or her thoughts, she couldn't decide. All she did know was that she had to stay strong and move along. The two of them were going to get out of there and move on with their lives, whether it was about them traveling together or going their separate ways. Keiko decided not to look into the future and to stick with what was happening in the present. She held out a slender arm and arm towards Crescent. Facing him, she spoke.

"Shall we continue?"

[Ensui]

Currently working on a reply.
Sorry for taking so long.
Will be here next weekend.

[Ensui]

"My map, of course."

He joined her where she stood. He was kidding, but he wouldn't let her know that. He had never been big on the idea of friends. They always seemed like such a burden to him. Kit was pleasant, though. But, he wasn't sure if he'd call her a friend just yet, if ever. To him, they were just two people who felt comfortable with each other for the time being. Friendship could possibly pursue.

"Shall we continue?"

He nodded. Turning to what was ahead, he cautiously started to walk. The swamp had become more bearable, but danger remained. A wrong step could prove fatal. With no idea on their location, he figured the direction he took was as good as any. Did Kit have a good sense of direction? He walked over to a tree, breaking some of the twigs before he put a nich in the bark. Atleast he'd know if they were going in circles. Looking back to see how Kit was doing, he wondered if something really was wrong with her. Had it just been his imagination when he assumed something wasn't right? He hoped Kit really was okay.

"Are you doing alright?"

He continued to walk, ears intent on what she had in response. Illness would be a hassle in their current situation. Would she be able to care for herself? If not, he could always leave her. He smiled, imagining the reaction Kit would have had she heard this last thought. No. He wouldn't do that. He'd carry her if he had to. He stepped over the obstacle of a log, somewhat expecting Kit to trip over it. He smiled, tickled by this thought.

[frozentears]

The audacity of his response. Just his map! That’s it! She flew him how far and long for nothing! Keiko wanted to stick out her tongue and stomp off, that was her inner child speaking of course. No, she left it slide. She was in no condition whatsoever to be picking an argument. She was just lucky to have enough strength to hold herself up. Of all things, she did not want to stop. She wanted out of this hellhole. Winter was approaching quickly, for the storm brought cool nights that would eventually lead to cold nights and frost and snow.

Crescent nodded, motioning her that they were going to continue their journey out of the swamp. Keiko realized that he was pretty smart as he walked over to the tree and marked it. She would have never thought of that. She would have just continued walking in circles around the swamp thinking she was losing her mind. Of course, she wouldn’t be walking. If it weren’t for Crescent, Keiko would have teleported herself out of here a long while ago.

Following his every step, figuring where he stepped was safe, she made sure she stayed close by him in fear of danger and of losing him. As she used her BO to keep herself stable, she noticed Crescent glance back at her. Had he figured out she was ill? No, that wasn’t possible. Keiko hid it well, or at least thought she did. That’s when he asked id she was ‘okay.’

Was she okay? Well, it depended how you looked at it? She was mentally okay, but physically she was far away from being okay. Now the real question for the sickly one was if she was going to tell him or not. It was a huge possibility that he’d leave her alone of she told the truth, but if he found out by himself, being his clever self, the same result would occur. Maybe, just maybe, if she told him, they would rest a little while longer, but Keiko didn’t want to stop. She wanted to go until she could no more.

“You want the truth, Crescent, then here it is. I am sick as a dog. My head hurts, I’m weak, my throat hurts, but I’m okay. My philosophy is I keep going until I go no more. I tried to hide it, but you figured it out. I guess I can’t keep secrets too well.”

There, she did it. She told him the honest truth. Keiko felt much better knowing that I was officially out in the open. She stopped as a shot of pain came from her wings and back. Had it been 24 hours already? Turning from Crescent, Keiko removed her top coverings as she allowed her elegant wings to return to their hiding place until the next time they would be able to stretch. After returning all of her garments to their rightful place, she walked a little faster to catch up to her traveling companion.

Having no awareness of her surroundings, her gracefulness proved to be a failure once more, as she tumbled onto the ground. This time she didn’t trip over air, but a log. At least it wasn’t nothing this time, but a tangible item. Her head hurt more than before now, she sat on the ground with her hands on her head. Keiko just kept telling herself to get up and don’t look wimpy. That she had to be strong. Grabbing her staff, she clutched both hands firmly around it as weak legs stood straight. Her head straight, but very sensitive to the sunlight. Ears aching from any loud noise. She hated being sick.

With her wings gone, it was much easier to walk for the weight of them was heavier than she is usually carrying around. With them gone though, warm was out of the picture and travel was still slow. Keiko retied her silky hair back, bangs still dangling in her eyes. Gathering all of her strength, she stood up and caught up to the male.

Her ears twitched as a cooler breeze hit them. Great. Just wonderful. The cold was coming, they were lost in a swamp, no food or shelter around, danger lurked in every corner, and she was sick. Could life possibly get any worse?

[Ensui]

Ensui's stop was sudden. Thrusting his hand out, he grabbed the top of Kit's head, turning it to face him. He leaned in, his face sporting a look of disappointment as his eyes stared straight into hers.

"You're sick?"

Of course she was. It had been so obvious. His brow arched. Only a fool would neglect to care for their wounds. Be it flesh or health. He released her scalp, closing his eyes and shaking his own head with dissatisfaction as he continued to walk. Had she really planned on going it in her current condition? He frowned. It was a foolish thought. The cat was officially a fool. Foolish thoughts and foolish actions. He walked to another tree to mark. He had half a mind to make the two continue. The cat had said herself she would keep going until she could no more. His eyes narrowed.

Turning back to Kit he rushed over to her and roughed her hair with both hands while he preached.

"You're such a fool! What were you thinking going on while you were sick? Are you trying to get yourself killed?! Have you no thought for your well being? You still have things to accomplish don't you? Have you ever thought about that!?"

He pulled his hands back still watching her. He had been annoyed by her carelessness. Maybe his words had brought some sense to her. His eyes remained narrow. Her next words had better be smart ones or he would have to conk her. He waited, ready to lay it on her again had she given a wrong reply.

[frozentears]

As she walked, her head was bowed down staring at her feet due to the brightness of the sunlight causing her head to hurt more. She didn’t want to look at Crescent at all, for she knew that he’d be angry about her response. Her ears twitched as they sensed the sudden stop of water sloshing to find that her traveling companion had stopped head on. Her senses and reflexes being slow due to her illness, she nearly walked into him, leaving only a few inches between the two. Before she had the chance to back away, a sharp tug followed by a burst of pain brought tears to her turquoise eyes. She wanted to collapse on the spot but a hand turned her aching head towards his own.

A single tear rolled down her rosy cheek. Golden eyes stared directly into her own. After only a few seconds and two words, she closed her eyes. What was she was suppose to do about her health? It wasn’t her fault that it had rained. She only had power over ice, not rain or any of the other elements. She didn’t choose to be ill, she had better things to do with her life like things to do and places to go. She felt a weight being lifted off of her head as the hand belonging to Crescent released her. Keiko didn’t speak a word, but merely hunched her head and stood still, hands firmly grasping her BO. This illness she had seemed to be continuing to get worse. Right now, all she wanted was a nice warm fire, a cozy bed, and someone to take care of her and maybe cuddle up with, but she knew that last one would never happen in lifetime.

She opened her sensitive eyes to find that Crescent had walked ahead. Before she could take a breather, two hands messed her hair again. She let her ears hear his words of annoyance, anger, and dissatisfaction. He was screaming at her, or it seemed to her highly responsive ears. Weak words escaped from between her two lips.

“Please…. Don’t shout….”

His words, though, were those of wisdom. He was indeed correct. She was a fool. A fool for thinking that maybe he might have cared a little bit. A fool for thinking that maybe that they could reach an agreement. Was it not her decision to continue on the journey? Was it not her decision if she wanted to risk her own life? At the rate, she was in no condition to argue with him. She did have things to accomplish in her lifetime: find her sister or her remains, get married, become a mother, but he wouldn’t understand. He wasn’t the loving kind. He had no emotions, only that of anger.

She never actually thought about her own well being, only getting out of this damned place called a swamp. If Keiko would have known that Crescent was have had this type of personality, she would have never offered to help him and she would have never had gotten herself into this situation, but the same thought still lingered in her mind that maybe even the most cold-hearted person had some type of feelings and emotions deep inside them, hiding under the mask that they wore everyday.

Rough hands let her hair flow in the cool breeze, sun shining on her hair. She looked at her angry looking traveling partner and the look in his honey eyes. She had to make sure her response was up to Crescent’s standards. He was already angry with her. Even though her voice was weal, her body aching, and her ears were drooping, she couldn’t stop this excursion out of here. She needed to exit this place of hell.

“The only thing I was thinking about was leaving this place. I cannot stand to look of it no longer.”

Killed. She would never do that. She didn’t want to end her life without accomplishing anything. She was still so young.

“ In my lifetime I do have many things I wish to accomplish, but none of them seem to be possible.”

Her words were soft spoken, using a lot of what voice she had left. Deep breaths were used between every couple of words. A steady flow of tears were escaping from her teal eyes.

“Besides, why do you even care whether I live or die? I have nothing in life to keep me here that seems to be within my reach. Well, what do you suppose I do? I cannot stay here in a swamp until I get better. I am in no condition to travel on foot, for I am far too weak. The only thing I could even possibly think about doing is transporting, but with the way I am at the present time, I have no idea where I would even end up and I don’t want to go by myself.”

Keiko could feel that he knees were just about to give in. The weakness of her body was growing as each moment of standing passed. Her eyes spotted a floating log that seemed sturdy enough to hold her own weight. Now it was time to show another special ability she had to the male. Keiko knew it would use a large amount of her energy but it was either fall in muck and grime or use energy. Looking sharply at the log, she shouted as long as her fading voice could allow her to. “Log!” The appeared behind her just as her knees gave in.

She knew herself that she couldn’t go on like this. If only there was an easy way out of this situation. Keiko would not put it past Crescent to ditch her in her time of despair. If it happened to be colder, much colder, at least she could freeze over the swamp, but then there is always the chance of a blizzard, which would send Keiko to her death.

She laid her staff next to her, allowing the both hands to be free. Keiko bowed her head and covered her ears with her hands, in hope of keeping them warmer. What was she going to do? Keiko knew that if she asked the uncaring and cold male to help and stay with her until she returned to a better health that he would tell her something like ‘you brought this upon yourself’ or ‘you’re a complete moron.’

The sun ray’s grew warmer, letting the green color return to the water. Soon all of the water creatures would come out of their hiding spots, They had to do something quick. Keiko could sense that the cold was just around the corner. She also had that lingering feeling that something terrible was about to happen. This place was starting to send chills through her body, different from those of illness. Taking a deep breath she spoke.

“Crescent, I know that you think I am a fool that has no gracefulness whatsoever, not even close to the word brilliant, and that I have no thought about my own health, but I do have a dreadful feeling that something horrible is about to happen, especially in this place. If you have any sense of trust in me, you must allow me to transport both of us out of this wretched place. I know it will use most of my energy and that I am ungraceful, but then I will have at least helped someone in my life, I will have accomplished something. It will help me as well, as for maybe I can find somewhere to rest my weary body. I cannot say where we will end up, but it must be better that here. So as long as we both think about the same place on where we wish to go, we can get there.”

Keiko breathed a few deep breaths to catch her breath. See looked up at the tall male standing before her. If he didn’t approve of the plan, then she either left without him or they would have to seek shelter quickly. All she knew was that the longer they waited, the worse she would become, the less energy she’d have, and the more she felt something bad was going to happen.

[Ensui]

Her reply had not been satisfactory, but his look softened. Kit really was a fool. She should have left while she was still well. In the back of is mind, he somewhat blamed himself for her illness. Maybe it was time for him to give in. The thought of teleporting made him uncomfortable, but he had also grown weary of this place. His thoughts halted with Kit's sudden outburst of 'log'. He was surprised to see the materialization of one just as Kit needed it. As he stood in his place, he let his eyes take in her weak form. He understood why she wouldn't want to teleport alone at this point. She had let her illness go too far.

He sighed, about to give in to the teleporting plan if the feline still had the strength. As he readied himself to speak, he was cut short by her urgent words. Ensui listened, sudden realizations hitting him. He had been so lost in thought that he hadn't caught on to the cause of Kit's unease. His eyes turned cold as his senses sparked. He had been irked by his own failure to pay attention.

He rushed forward, scooping up Kit in his arms and hopping into a high tree branch in one flail swoop. Ensui looked back to the water who's surface could not be penetrated. The log bobbed with every ripple that hit it's rough side. He kept a watchful eye as he spoke.

"The water region. Think you can get us there?"

He still held Kit in is arms as he scanned the surface.

"If not, any place will do."